Charlotte Varcoe
THERE have been fresh calls for an indoor skating rink following the release of Mount Gambier City Council’s Sport, Recreation and Open Space strategy.
Officially endorsed at the January council meeting, elected members discussed the new document which specifies potential improvements to a number of outdoor areas across the Blue Lake City.
The document suggests high priority strategic recommendations for the popular Railway Lands precinct including a newly developed skate park, three-by-three basketball court, ping pong tables and other components.
However, avid roller skaters have expressed the need for an indoor rink rather than another outdoor park due to ongoing issues surrounding litter and broken glass in the area.
Roller skating teacher Kylie Bamford said due to the ongoing issues across the Railway Lands it could make it difficult for people to practice their skills without risking injury.
“At the moment we use the old hospital grounds and sometimes the Railway Lands but unfortunately we can encounter rubbish or broken glass which makes it really dangerous if anyone falls,” Ms Bamford said.
“This type of sport is better learnt indoors and places such as the new Wulanda Recreation Centre which would be great for indoor roller skating.”
Ms Bamford congratulated council on its attempt to improve outdoor areas, yet believed the Railway Lands would benefit from other improvements.
“I feel the Railway Lands is better suited to its beautiful landscape area with more art sculptures and ponds to make the centre of the town stronger for tourism,” she said.
“Whereas other skate parks could benefit from upgrades and shelter from the winter weather.”
Mount Gambier City Council general manager for city growth Tim Coote said those interested in providing different ideas were able to do so through the council’s Have Your Say website.
“Those who have ideas are also welcome to have a good read and a look at the strategy and read the recommendations that are coming from the strategy document,” Mr Coote said.
“Council is interested in looking at ideas which are inline with the strategy and if someone has good ideas they should present them.
“We are happy to consider all ideas, however indoor facilities come with other constraints and considerations which is the benefit of having this document because when plans do come along we are able to align it with our strategic focus.”
The Open Spaces document is available for viewing on council’s website.
