Local residents have launched a petition urging officials to reconsider plans to auction off a 450-sqm parcel of greenspace on the corner of Sylvan Road and Land Street in Toowong.
Read: Cyclist Safety at Risk on Sylvan Road in Toowong, Awaiting Promised Upgrades
The site, which is classified as High Density Residential and falls within the Regatta Hotel Precinct, is set to be auctioned off on November 6. However, local resident Harry Smithers and other concerned citizens argue that this greenspace is crucial for the vibrant, dense Toowong community.
“This part of Toowong is vibrant and dense. In areas like this, we need to maintain our communal greenspaces to mitigate the urban heat island effect and provide habitat for native birds and bees,” said Mr Smithers.
The site, located at 21 Sylvan Road, currently houses seven well-established eucalyptus trees, which studies show can boost mood and increase feelings of happiness through exposure to nature. Mr Smithers also noted the area’s vulnerability to flooding, and how the greenspace plays a key role in managing stormwater.
“Greenspaces play a crucial role in managing stormwater and reducing the impacts of flooding. This part of Sylvan Road is flood prone,” he said.
The petition, which has garnered nearly 400 signatures toward a goal of 500, calls on local officials to reconsider the auction and instead explore ways to revitalise and preserve the site as a community greenspace.
“This tiny site is being marketed as a multi-level development opportunity – how given the size? The last thing this area needs is more million-dollar units on this remnant of green space,” one supported noted.
“We need more green space in our cities plus Land Street goes under every time it floods,” another resident stated.
Read: Toowong to West End Bridge: Brisbane’s Stalled Project Seeks New Momentum
Those wishing to sign the petition can do so via the Change.org platform. Residents hope the show of community support will prompt a reassessment of the plans for this valuable pocket of greenery in urban Toowong.
Published 30-October-2024
