Sunshine Coast Council has unveiled its blueprint for the delivery of community facilities that encourage people to meet and connect with each other.

 

In launching council’s Social Infrastructure Strategy 2011, Social Strategy Portfolio Councillor Anna Grosskreutz said that council recognises the importance and benefits that well planned social infrastructure has for the health, wellbeing and economic prosperity of our communities.

 

"Social infrastructure plays an important role in bringing people together, developing community spirit and developing the skills and resilience essential to strong communities," Cr Grosskreutz said.

 

"Council’s adoption of the blueprint is a significant step for the Sunshine Coast in the provision of an additional 40ha of land and investment valued at $140 million in social infrastructure for our community over the next 20 years.

 

"The blueprint is our roadmap for social infrastructure such as libraries, aquatic facilities, community meeting spaces and arts facilities. The blueprint even identifies needs associated with cemeteries and State Emergency Services."

 

Councillor Grosskreutz said it was important to remember that the delivery of social infrastructure was not just a council responsibility.

 

"We will be working on developing strong partnerships with the development industry and all levels of government."

 

The Lake Kawana Community Centre is a considered a solid example of a partnership between council and Stockland, the master developer of the Kawana Waters area. Through this partnership, the Lake Kawana Community Centre has been established and operates as a key community hub for the area.

 

Council will continue to work collaboratively with the development industry and all levels of government for the provision of modern and versatile community centres, situated right in the heart of developing communities.

 

Working with other partners brings opportunities such as reduced land requirements, shared capital costs, enhanced service coordination and attraction of compatible commercial uses.

 

The blueprint is available on council’s website as part of the Social Infrastructure Strategy 2011, for those who would like to learn more.