Community optimistic as western McConnell Avenue Reserve sale decision deferred

A coastal community is optimistic as the future of a beloved reserve they have campaigned for years to save remains in limbo.

Friends of McConnell member Travis Smith and his family opposing plans to sell part of McConnell Reserve in 2017. Travis is pictured with his twins Maeve and Angus and neighbour Patrick Wesson. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

A coastal community remains optimistic as the future of part of a Marino reserve remains in limbo.

Marion Council voted to defer the decision on the possible sale of the western portion of McConnell Avenue Reserve until upgrades to the eastern portion are complete in 2022.

The decision comes after years of community campaigning to retain the western portion of the reserve following a similar decision in 2017.

Travis Smith of community group Friends of McConnell said residents had worked hard to gather community support to save their reserve.

“The number of signatures on the paper petition and locations where they were collected shows the community overwhelmingly supports the retention and redevelopment of the western portion of the reserve as an integrated whole with the eastern portion,” Mr Smith said.

“We view the council decision not to pursue the revocation process at this stage as recognition of the community’s position on this subject and the soundness of the arguments put forward.

“The Friends of McConnell group will continue to advocate for the preservation and enhancement of accessible open space for the residents of Marino.”

The court at McConnell Avenue Reserve, Marino. Picture: AAP/Matt Loxton

David Bagshaw, president of local residents group 5049 Coastal Community, said the decision was a result of significant efforts by Marino residents.

“We believe is in response to strong community engagement and messages delivered to council,” he said.

“Whilst the outcome is similar to the 2017 resolution, we feel that the community wishes have been better understood and acknowledged by council, however the next 12 months are critical.

“We will continue to consult and collaborate with Marion Council to seek a reclassification of the entirety of McConnell Reserve to a Neighbourhood Level reserve, given its significance to the wider community.

The $217,000 upgrade to the eastern portion will include creating a multi-use tennis, netball and basketball court, adding drink fountain, shelter and landscaping and upgrades to irrigation.

Marion Mayor Kris Hanna said the reserve would include “the highest standard playground in the whole city”.

“Although the resident views on the western side of the reserve seem fixed at least if the council completes its upgrade of the eastern side of the reserve residents will see that we are really trying to do something for the community,” he said.