Comment invited on future of Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground

Published on 14 September 2024

A destination for campers, community events, play and recreation is the focus of a draft Plan of Management now open for community feedback to guide the use and management of one of the Singleton local government area’s most popular Crown reserves.

The draft Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground Plan of Management was developed incorporating community feedback collected from user surveys, community drop-in sessions and submissions, and proposes to split the current land categorisation of park into three categories:

• Sportsground – covering the two fenced tennis courts, practice wall and adjoining amenities building incorporating a canteen public toilets, BBQ and picnic tables;
• General Community Use – comprising the community hall and land immediate surrounding the hall; and
• Park – covering all remaining land (the majority of the site).

The draft document is now on public exhibition until Monday 28 October 2024 following Ministerial consent from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, and in line with Council’s resolution from 18 April 2023.

Katie Hardy, Council’s Acting Director Infrastructure and Planning said the 1.7ha Crown land site managed by Singleton Council and classified as community land was used for camping and caravaning, hosted community events including the Jerrys Plains Community Fair and Car Boot Sale, and offered facilities including a playground, tennis and multipurpose court, BBQ and community hall.

“A Plan of Management is a legislative requirement for the site to categorise the land and govern its use and management, but most importantly, it’s a reflection of how the community uses the land now, what upgrades or facilities are needed, and how the community wishes to preserve the site into the future,” she said.

“The draft Plan of Management for the Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground recognises not only the importance of the site for sport, recreation and community connectedness, but examines how we can promote even greater use of the site.

“Exhibiting the draft Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground Plan of Management gives everyone the opportunity to comment on proposals included in the document, including the upgrading, operational and strategic management of the site to ensure it will continue to meet the needs of our community as well as visitors to the site.”

A report to consider the submissions received during the public exhibition period will be presented to Council’s ordinary meeting on 13 December 2024.

“Recognising how important the Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground is, not only to local residents but to regular visitors including campers and caravanners, I encourage everyone with an interest to look at the draft document and let us know your comments—whether you agree with what’s included in the draft document, have any suggestions for improvements, or a combination of both,” Ms Hardy said.

Draft Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground Plan of Management