What's Happening At LM Graham Reserve?

Since the 2010  Masterplan for LM Graham Reserve was adopted by Manly Council, many changes have been made.  And yet, the old Plan has never been updated for public review.

The recent erection of a major fence caused much upset as local users of the Reserve were not aware of its purpose.

,At the February Council Meeting, Clr Candy Bingham of Good For Manly, was successful in gaining agreement that the Plan be updated, but not without the usual argy-bargy.

What has become typical of Manly Council meetings, a simple suggestion that an item be updated so that the public can be keep informed, become an opportunity for the Mayor to lecture all present on the merits of the updated Plan.    It was good to know that at least one Councillor knew what was happening!

The current 2010 Plan on Council's website shows tennis courts (which now aren't happening due to lack of support) and do not include newly created cricket practice areas for example.  
​
Want to know what's happening?  Here's a summary from Council staff:

1. Council staff are currently assessing the installation a low picket fence to surround the actual fields/playing surfaces to protect the refurbished surfaces at the sports ground.  Considerable contributions are to be received from several of the sporting clubs for a low picket fence, and as well, the assessment of proposed fencing materials is being progressed.
   
   
2. Several people have contacted Council to support installation of a low picket fence to ensure the funds spent during this refurbishment of playing surfaces, are not lost for future seasons, and surfaces are maintained through protected sports field management.  
   
   
3. The red brick building along Balgowlah Road is to be demolished – opening up a greater area along Balgowlah Road for open recreation and activity.
   
   
4. The area, where currently you see a set of building demountable / construction fencing around these fields for the new centre, will also be opened up and available to the community at all times.
   
   
5.  A much larger and open space for recreational activities in L M Graham reserve will emerge once the works are completed.
   
   
6. The new community amenities building along Kenneth Road provides area for a kiosk, the new public amenities will open for use, a bike storage area and a bus stop at this location will enhance facilities.
   
   
7. This building also houses the co-generation plant for provision of power for water heating of all pools and the operations of the aquatic centre.

Watch this space. The updated Plan will be posted as soon as it becomes available.