A clear decision to have a public open space strategy and a commitment to its
implementation is the first step. As part of an integrated planning
approach, it is essential that the strategy reflects the council’s
vision as articulated in its 10 year strategic community plan. It is
also important to identify a champion for its development, preferably at
director level. It is essential to clearly articulate where the
strategy will fit into the organisation’s structure that is, will it be a
standalone document or will it be integrated into the council’s other
strategic level documents (i.e. local planning strategy, environmental strategy, economic development strategy).
An internal working
group with representation from all divisions should be established,
chaired by the champion. This should be comprised of officers who are
able to make commitments on behalf of their branches or directorates.
A
reference group of people outside the local government would provide
insights into, or advice about, matters being considered by the working
group. This may include membership from relevant State agencies
(Department of Planning, Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries), sporting
bodies, and bushcare groups, etc.
A public open space strategy
needs to incorporate input from all divisions of the local government,
as it will impact on all of the council’s activities.