Save Rosny's Parks

Community shows clear and strong opposition to housing in Charles Hand Park in the latest feedback on the City Heart Draft Plan.

In response, on 17 March 2025, Clarence City Council agreed to scrap housing plans in the park.

Deputy Mayor, Allison Ritchie, "I think that the community has sent, in my view, a very loud and clear message about Charles Hand Park and support for ensuring that we don't have a future that includes housing located in the park."

Mayor, Brendan Blomeley, "Can I just place on the record that I have never, ever been a supporter of any housing in Charles Hand Park." 

Councillors directed the CEO to update the City Heart Plan - removing housing plans - the three buildings marked as item 9.

Still unclear is the discrepancy raised in our submissions about the purpose of the Civic Building/Pavillion in Rosny Parkland.

On page 66/67 of the City Heart Draft Plan, it is described as a cultural space to celebrate Tasmanian Aboriginal Culture. On page 50, it is called a hub for access to government services and jobs, community facilities and resources. We await clarification from Council.

To stay up to date, please follow our Facebook group Save Rosny Parks Tasmania

Protecting our parks or political survival?

Councillor views

The only councillors who have continually supported the protection of our open green spaces are:

Councillors Richard James, James Walker, Beth Warren, Jade Darko and Bree Hunter. 

Cr Allison Ritchie has been a protector of Charles Hand Park for some time, but will she be as protective of Rosny Parkland? We'd like to hear more about that. Cr Emma Goyne was not at the 17 March meeting but has expressed the view that housing should come out of the park.

Cr Brendan Blomeley has done a complete about face most likely to secure a few votes for the upcoming federal election in the seat of Franklin.

Councillors Heather Chong and Tony Mulder simply wanted to remove the park from the plan, to deal with it later.

Cr Daniel Hulme and Wendy Kennedy did not in any way feel that they should listen to the community and passionately argued to keep the housing in the park.