West Torrens locals demand vote on Crows Thebarton takeover

Hundreds of angry West Torrens residents have demanded a “referendum” on the Crows plans to take over Thebarton Oval.

More than 300 people packed a Thebarton community centre on Wednesday night to vent their frustrations over the Adelaide Crows’ takeover of the Thebarton Oval Precinct.

Many residents expressed concerns that West Torrens Council’s consultation process, which involves filling out an online form, will not weigh the community’s perspective over Crows’ members living in areas outside of the local area.

Residents called for a “referendum” to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

“I think that process should be available only to people who are going to be affected in their daily lives by what could happen here,” one resident said.

CHANGING PLANS

Slide the line left and right to compare the two plans. Compare the two plans according to locals campaigning against the Crows development.

Another asked what would stop someone from lying about where they lived when filling out the online.

The representative from consulting company URPS, said that they would rely on people’s “integrity” to ensure they don’t lie.

Torrensville resident Helen Paulourkitsis said the meeting was “a little bit too late”.

“This has been thrown into our face and we have to accept it, whether we like it or not,” she said.

The Crows released a statement to members which included a link to express their thoughts on the Thebarton Oval Precinct takeover to be included in the community consultation.

After some accusations he didn’t care to meet with residents, Mayor Coxon said he “absolutely rejects that”.

Adelaide Crows artist impressions of their new base at Thebarton Oval. Picture: City Collective

Adelaide Crows artist impressions of their new base at Thebarton Oval. Picture: City Collective

Including the comments made at the meeting tonight, approximately 4,500 homes and businesses in the vicinity of the oval were dropped off a postcard with details on how to have their say.

Coxon also rejected suggestions the ground would constantly be used, saying the council’s chief executive, Terry Buss, had reviewed the Crows’ training schedule.

He said if the proposal reached the master plan stage, the council would negotiate Adelaide’s hours of operation of the ovals.

“It’s going to used be far, far less than anyone can imagine,” he said.