Hunters Hill. community strategic plan HUNTER S HILL COUNCIL. A Sense of History. A Sense of Community. A Place to Belong. A Sustainable Future

Transcription

1 A community based reporting structure for Council HUNTER S HILL COUNCIL A Sense of History A Sense of Community A Place to Belong A Sustainable Future Hunters Hill 2030 community strategic plan

2 DRAFT PLAN introduction contents mayoral message...2 the role of community strategic planning...3 general manager ager message your councillors...5ors...5 our vision for the themes: 1. heritage & built environment community & lifestyle natural environment moving around our Council...16

3 introduction Hunters Hill Municipality was founded in 1861 and is located about 7 kilometres from the Sydney GPO. Buffalo Creek and the Lane Cove River in the north, Tarban Creek and the Parramatta River in the south and Punt Road, Victoria Road, Pittwater Road and the City of Ryde in the west, bound Hunters Hill Municipality. Hunters Hill Municipality includes the suburbs of Gladesville (part), Henley, Hunters Hill, Huntleys Cove, Huntleys Point and Woolwich. The Municipality is predominantly a residential area with very little commercial or industrial land use. Hunters Hill is the smallest local government area in metropolitan Sydney with an area of 6 square kilometres, including many parks and reserves. Hunters Hill is recognised as Australia s oldest garden suburb, with 75% of the municipality declared a conservation area. The original inhabitants of the area were the Wallumedegal Aboriginal people. European settlement dates from 1795 when land was fi rst farmed. Growth was minimal until the late 1840s when many mansions were constructed (many of them from local sandstone) and a monastery was established. Growth took place from the 1880s to the early 1900s, spurred by subdivision, the establishment of a regular ferry service, the opening of several bridges and growth in the shipbuilding industry. The population in 2009 was 14,467. Magnifi cent sandstone buildings, heritage listed houses and buildings with signifi cant stone walls that border the streets are found within the Municipality. Gladesville Hospital and The Priory (the original home of the Marist Father s Order in the south pacifi c) are but two publicly accessible examples of early colonial sandstone structures. A rich, diverse and signifi cant tree canopy, suburban bushland and parks are evidenced in The Great North Walk track, Boronia Park, Tipperary Falls, Buffalo Creek Reserve, Riverglade (Tarban Creek) Reserve, Gladesville Reserve, Bedlam Bay (Parramatta River) Regional Park. Living and working examples of our nations early shipbuilding and maritime industry on display at Woolwich Dock and Lookout, Clarkes Point Reserve, Morts Reserve, The Goat Paddock, The Horse Paddock, Kellys Bush and Weil Park. A commitment to education and learning, that for such a small area, has and continues to be a signifi cant part of Sydney s development at; St Josephs College, Marist Sisters College, Villa Maria Parish School, Hunters Hill Public School, Gladesville Public School, Boronia Park Public School, Hunters Hill High School, Riverside Girls High School. Page 1

4 mayoral message As a Council we are being challenged every day to do more with less, to provide for an additional 1,200 dwellings, to improve road and transport infrastructure, to provide new or better community facilities, to cope with population growth and increased traffi c the list goes on. At Hunter s Hill Council we believe that planning is fundamental to properly representing the interests of our community and in delivering services that best meet community needs and expectations. A new planning and reporting framework for NSW Local Government has been introduced with a greater focus on sustainability. This new framework has been designed to ensure that councils undertake appropriate community consultation to agree on a strategic approach, to managing assets more effectively and aiming toward a fi nancially sustainable future. Community feedback and comments are very much valued and Council encourages you to submit your thoughts and ideas, which will be used to inform our decisions. Councillor Susan Hoopmann Mayor of Hunters Hill Council has been consulting with the community about the development of a 20 Year Community Strategic Plan. The Community Strategic Plan highlights what is important to us as a community both now, and into the future and outlines our key directions, lists the major goals of the community and proposes strategies which will be used to achieve them....planning is fundamental to properly representing the interests of our community and in delivering services that best meet community needs. Page 2

5 the role of community strategic planning The new reporting framework introduced by the State Government recognises that communities do not exist in isolation they are part of a larger natural, social, economic and political environment that infl uences and, to a large extent, shapes their future direction. Neither do council plans exist in isolation land use and infrastructure planning produces social, environmental and economic outcomes, and vice-versa they are connected. reliable infrastructure, etc. The difference lies in how each community responds to these needs. That is what shapes the character of individual towns and cities. The new framework opens the way for councils and their communities to have important discussions about funding priorities, service levels and preserving local identity and to plan in partnership for a more sustainable future. This framework encourages councils to draw their various plans together, to understand how they interact and to get the maximum leverage from their efforts by planning holistically for the future. The Community Strategic Plan is the highest level plan that Hunter s Hill Council will prepare. The purpose of the plan is to identify the community s main priorities and aspirations for the future and to plan strategies for achieving these goals. In doing this, the planning process will consider the issues and pressures that may affect the community and the level of resources that will realistically be available to achieve its aims and aspirations. It recognises that most communities share similar aspirations: A safe, healthy and pleasant place to live, a sustainable environment, opportunities for social interaction, opportunities for employment, Page 3

6 general manager s message A new planning and reporting framework for NSW Local Government has been introduced with a greater focus on sustainability. This new planning and reporting regime for Councils is based on providing communities with the information that is both transparent and as simple to understand as possible. This includes: Much of our work in the fi rst half of 2010/11 has been concentrated on completing this draft of the strategic component of the new planning and reporting framework. The detail of the plan is in the Delivery Program, and this will be our major focus in the second half of 2010/ Publishing a 10-year strategic plan (known as a Community Strategic Plan). This is revised and rolled forward each 4 years within 18 months after each council election. A core feature of this is a 4-year Delivery Program with details of how each strategy in the plan will be delivered. The plan also links with State and Regional plans to refl ect joint priorities. 2. An annual operational plan with a budget that is uniformly presented across councils and con sistent with a national approach. (This document implements the Delivery Program). 3. A simple reporting system that focuses on risks to achieving stated outcomes. 4. An annual report that comprises performance against key indicators. This fi rst part of the plan sets the strategic direction of the Council by clearly defi ning the vision, directions and outcomes (goals). These need to be clear and concise so that they can be progressively translated into the more detailed objectives, strategies and activities developed at the lower levels of planning within the Delivery Plan, other related subsidiary plans and the annual operating plan. Identifying and understanding community needs have helped shape this fi rst stage of the plan by: Engaging and assessing community needs and expectations through a number of public forums and community surveys. Identifying key state, regional and cross-departmental issues and priorities and developing appropriate strategies. Identifying and understanding community needs have helped shape this first stage of the plan. Page 4

7 general manager s message Continued community feedback and engagement over the next few months when this part of the plan is on exhibiton is very important. On behalf of Council my sincere thanks to those members of the community and our committees who have worked with us over the past few months to develop this vital fi rst step in our 2030 plan. Continued community feedback and engagement over the next few months when this part of the plan is on exhibition is very important, as this will help inform Councillors and Council staff as they prepare the four-year delivery program, annual operating plan and resourcing strategy (long term fi nancial plan, asset management plan and workforce plan). Barry Smith General Manager your councillors Clr Susan Hoopmann Mayor of Hunters Hill Ph: NORTH WARD SOUTH WARD Clr Murray Butt Ph: Clr Richard Quinn Deputy Mayor Ph: Clr Peter Astridge Ph: Clr Simon Frame Ph: Clr Meredith Sheil Ph: Clr Ross Sheerin Ph: Page 5

8 our vision for our future In 2030 Hunters Hill is renowned for its well-preserved heritage buildings, sandstone walls, magnifi cent tree canopy and bushland, surrounded by its pristine waterways and sandstone seawalls. People enjoy and embrace the lifestyle, restaurants and cafes, and quiet ambience that complement Australia s oldest garden suburb. Architectural excellence is evident throughout Hunters Hill and new developments have been limited in height to 2 storeys in residential areas that are compatible with the character of the area. There is a strong sense of community, residents are very committed to the area, know their neighbours and all feel a strong sense of belonging to Hunters Hill. Our Aboriginal heritage and cultural diversity are refl ected in a vibrant cultural scene and harmonious community. The broad needs of the community are provided for through a range of facilities, services, and events. Community organisations are fl ourishing with many residents volunteering their time and participating in a wide variety of activities. Gladesville is the focal point of commerce and our thriving village centres (Woolwich, Garibaldi, Hunters Hill, and Pittwater Rd) are warm and welcoming, supported by a network of business people and the community. Our footpaths, walking trails and cycleways are popular as they connect the Municipality and provide access to waterways, foreshores, and open green spaces, and traffi c is managed so that people can move around safely. Residents and visitors can get Page 6

9 our vision for our future We have upgraded our infrastructure, public facilities, urban spaces and sea walls by taking up opportunities to provide more diverse sources of income. Council has sustainably managed its assets with the support of the community to ensure its on-going fi nancial viability. where they want to go easily via an integrated public transport system that is cost effective, comfortable, convenient and accessible. Ferries are bringing people from all parts of the world to enjoy what Hunters Hill has to offer and this has led to waters edge improvements around the wharves. Hunters Hill has become a jewel in the World s greatest city, Sydney. Page 7

10 1.0 our heritage and built environment GOAL 1. To ensure the preservation of our heritage buildings, garden areas, views, streetscapes and tree canopy. 2. To accommodate increased population by using our existing housing and by new buildings that exemplify architectural excellence and which demonstrate ecologically sustainable principles. 3. To ensure that the focal point of commerce and services is Gladesville and our village centres are thriving. DIRECTIONS OUTCOMES Retain the existing historic buildings, sandstone walls trees and leafy streetscapes to maintain the heritage character of the area. to ensure that heritage and conservation of the area is maintained and respected preservation of the character, views to and from the municipality, and the tree canopy Utilisation of existing housing for increased demand. Encourage the development of new housing, shops, and facilities in and near commercial areas, which lie on major transport corridors. a range of housing types, that meet population demands commercial development that meets community and lifestyle needs maintenance and improvement of open space and foreshore access for the public provision and maintenance of high quality public spaces Encourage and educate the community on the benefits of Ecologically Sustainable Development. development meets environmental controls and standards (eg BASIX, the State Government building sustainability index)...higher density housing must be planned carefully so it does not spoil the beauty of the area. Page 8

11 1.0 our heritage and built environment We must fiercely protect heritage areas, including historic buildings. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES 1.1 To develop a community awareness campaign that ensures continuing participation by residents in the development application process. 1.2 Work with the community to: a. Review heritage character statements. b. Prepare a new comprehensive planning document (LEP) that integrates with all aspects of land usage, the environment and community lifestyle: i. Prepare new detailed controls (DCP) including complementary chapters on sustainability (ESD) ii. Implement outcomes from main street committees iii. Develop comprehensive tree management strategies iv. Ensure foreshore protection and access management Page 9

12 2.0 our community & lifestyle GOAL To ensure a caring and safe community where people enjoy living. DIRECTIONS OUTCOMES Actively promote cultural development. implementation of a range of arts and cultural programs and actively support local cultural organisations and events maintenance and promotion of multicultural and Indigenous heritage access to an efficient library or resource centre that meets information, learning and leisure needs Foster a sense of community and connection amongst residents. a caring community where different groups and individuals feel that they can belong a high level of participation in local volunteering Facilitate the provision of a range of accessible and appropriate community and health services and facilities. strong local community service organisations the needs of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable in the community are met, eg for the young and aged adequate and effective information about community services is provided to residents. Future generations are assured of enjoying at least the same opportunities for access to recreational and healthy activities, as those who came before them. maximised sustainable and equitable access and use of high quality sporting and recreational facilities increased level of participation in a range of healthy lifestyle activities Maintain and develop a safe community. Hunters Hill Municipality is a place where people feel safe There needs to be a more active volunteers program. Page 10

13 2.0 our community & lifestyle Create a cultural precinct at The Priory and make the Town Hall more accessible. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES 2.1 Accessible, well-designed and managed community facilities and public spaces are provided that encourage community connection, volunteering and safety. 2.2 Support the sustainable and equitable provision of a wide range of cultural, recreational and leisure activities, events and services for people of all ages and abilities. Page 11

14 3.0 our environment GOAL 1. To work in partnership with the community to achieve an environmentally sustainable Hunters Hill and to preserve and restore our bushlands and waterways. 2. Achieve a balance of environmental, social and economic interests today without harming the prospects of the generations of tomorrow. DIRECTIONS OUTCOMES The Hunters Hill community will lead the way in an ecologically sustainable lifestyle. protection of the natural and built environment for the benefit of future generations Play our part in minimising the environmental footprint in the context of climate change and growing population pressures. reduction of carbon emissions and energy consumption enhanced management of bushland and its biodiversity decrease waste sent to landfill and increase recovery of resources through recycling and sustainable purchasing ensure the sustainable use and re-use of water Engaging people in building a sustainable community. increased active and informed participation by local residents and business owners in creating a sustainable future environmental education is improved and used in conjunction with other organisational tools and strategies to promote sustainability...as a ratepayer I expect that Hunter s Hill Council is committed to the long term sustainability of this beautiful suburb. Page 12

15 3.0 our environment We need to play our part in reducing carbon emissions and conserving water. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES 3.1 The Sustainability Plan and sustainability principles are adopted and implemented in all planning and operational decisions. 3.2 Help people understand ways in which they can live their everyday lives so that they protect the environment for future generations. Page 13

16 4.0 moving around GOAL To provide for safe and orderly movement and coordination of vehicular, pedestrian, bicycle and public transport traffi c throughout Hunters Hill. DIRECTIONS OUTCOMES A safe, accessible, affordable and sustainable public transport network that provides efficient connections to work, educational and recreational facilities. minimise the need for any use of private motor cars advocate for a reasonable pricing policy to counter the cost of private transport and to encourage patronage of public transport level of service and safety to satisfy community expectations network connected to points of greatest demand Traffic is managed within Hunters Hill to ensure easy and safe movement and parking of vehicles in and throughout Hunters Hill. implementation of local area traffic management plans and resident parking schemes which manage traffic flow and speed off-street car parking provided where demand dictates provision of additional commuter car parking facilities in consultation with public transport authorities control on-street car parking Bicycle and pedestrian networks encourage easy and safe movement of people within Hunters Hill between key facilities, and which integrate with public and private transport. extended and integrated bicycle track network and improved safer pedestrian facilities connected to transport nodes, activity areas and village centres that are pedestrian friendly...the management of traffic is vital to ensuring a harmonious community. Page 14

17 4.0 moving around Public transport needs to be linked. I should be able to get off the ferry and onto a bus. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES 4.1 Work with regional organisations (NSROC) and providers (RTA, STA and Sydney Ferries) on providing a better integrated public transport network for our community as it grows, including integrated timetabling and ticketing. 4.2 Integrated traffic, parking, cycleway and pedestrian management plans are developed and implemented. Page 15

18 5.0 our council GOAL Hunter s Hill Council is a model of participative democracy a provider of quality customer service and innovative management of its financial resources is effi cient, effective and sustainable. DIRECTIONS OUTCOMES Hunter s Hill Council is a leader in democracy by promoting and encouraging community engagement and is recognised as an organisation that listens. Council is responsive to the community and communicates its decisions and initiatives effectively and efficiently. the Community of Hunters Hill is well-informed, participative and contributes to solutions there is a broader representation of the community Council is recognised and respected as an open and transparent organisation To deliver quality internal and external customer service greater satisfaction with customer services residents are happy to pay fees and charges commensurate with services provided by Council To ensure the responsible and innovative management of financial resources whilst meeting statutory requirements increase revenue from various sources to provide required services assets maintained to a level that maximises their economic life and sustainability Hunter s Hill Council provides a work environment that encourages innovation, participation and the pursuit of individual and organisational excellence Council staff are accredited with qualifications required to effectively service the community Council is recognised by the community and industry as a leader To facilitate the provision of electronic communication facilities enabling people to work from home and to access public information increase numbers of people using e-business facilities greater awareness and use of electronic information Page 16

19 5.0 our council...look at regional sharing of facilities, and working closely with other councils. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES 5.1 Have an informed community aware of the challenges facing Council s future viability and contributing to the strategy for ensuring it. 5.2 Ensure our long-term financial sustainability. 5.3 Ensure that staff are highly skilled and competent to meet the challenges of the future and deliver appropriate services to the community. 5.4 Invest in information and communication technologies to support the continued improvement of our services. Page 17

20 contacting council How to obtain further information The Hunter s Hill Council website will be regulary updated to include information about the integrated planning process. Supporting draft documents will be available from These will include the: Delivery Program Operational Plan Annual Report Resourcing Strategy (Long Term Financial Plan, Asset Management Plan and Workforce Plan) For further information and to obtain copies of these documents please contact: Web site: Phone: (02) Fax: (02) council@huntershill.nsw.gov.au...we welcome your feedback. Page 18

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