Wagga Wagga City Council says "thank you" to the community for their valuable input on what they love about our Botanic Gardens precinct and what they would like to see changed or improved at this popular open space.
Over four weeks in June and July of this year, the community was invited to voice their thoughts and ideas about the precinct through an online submission phase.
Council's Recreation Coordinator Joshua Walsh said the public engagement period, along with consultations with existing user groups and stakeholders, is the first stage in the development of a masterplan for the precinct.
"We really appreciate the community getting involved and taking the time to give us their feedback for this important planning project," Mr Walsh said.
"In total, we received 59 responses over the four-week period, 57 online through our Have Your Say Wagga Wagga page, as well as one email and one letter in response.
"These responses will contribute to the future planning of the precinct, which is a popular destination for residents and tourists of all ages, attracting thousands of regular and new visitors each year."
The feedback will help shape the development of a concept masterplan with the goal to ensure the Botanic Gardens precinct remains a vibrant, sustainable, and functional space for future generations.
Council staff have been collating the responses received during the public engagement period and several key themes have emerged.
These include a strong desire for improved pedestrian and pram access, better maintenance and infrastructure such as upgraded paths, fences, and more seating.
"There were also calls for enhanced plant diversity, additional educational and interactive features, and upgraded playgrounds and café facilities," Mr Walsh said.
"Many also suggested activating events spaces more frequently and improving parking options.
"Your feedback is crucial in helping us create a more accessible, engaging, and enjoyable Botanic Gardens precinct for everyone.
"We've engaged a Concept and Design Consultant to draft a masterplan and all the submissions will be considered in this draft.
"Community and stakeholder engagement is continuing to ensure a comprehensive consultation has been achieved."
Once a draft masterplan has been designed, it will be placed on public exhibition for comment.
At this stage, the aim is to present the draft Botanic Gardens Masterplan to Council by early 2025.
