Council called on to remember seniors during open space planning process

Alack of planning for Donovans has been highlighted by a Grant District Council resident in response to council’s Draft Playgrounds and Open Spaces Asset Management Plan.


Council voted last month to adopt the Draft Building Asset Management Plan, Draft Community Wastewater Management System Asset Management Plan and Draft Playgrounds and Open Space Asset Management Plan.


The 2021 Australian Census highlighted a population of 11 people in Donovans with an average age of 64 years old.


The submission highlighted a need for “better planning” for open space in Donovans to cater for the “changing populations” and ensure there are “opportunities for exercise” for local residents.


“In recent years, more adults and teenagers have moved into the area which opens up opportunity for better utilisation of open space to ensure teenagers have something to do (so they do not resort to antisocial behaviours), as well as their parents, to maintain their health and wellbeing,” the submission said.


“The current playground is not fit for purpose for the local population (caters for the wrong age groups).


“Also, there are lots of people with dogs in town who have no options for walking off lead locally.


“The open space has no features to support fitness for the dominant population group in the area – the elderly – we need more opportunities to support people maintaining their fitness as they age to reduce the risk of health issues (falls etc).”


The resident suggested removing the boat and seesaw playground equipment which were installed by council in 2022 and using the space for a basketball and netball hoop with a cement surface instead.


“I realise you just upgraded them but what is the point of having something no one actually uses when you could put something useful there instead – the community consultation for that was inadequate as it did not actually ask if the proposed equipment was needed/wanted, it only asked about colours,” the resident said.


“A basketball and netball hoop with hard surface can be used by teenagers and their parents for exercise (and not just basketball, netball, can be used for roller skating as well, we have a group of older residents who would like to roller skate to keep up our health as we age but there is nowhere to do so.)”


The ratepayer also suggested retaining the swings, fencing off an official dog lead area on Holloway Street with seating and a public bin for dog poo and installing public exercise equipment to assist with strength building, balance and flexibility.


Council said the anonymous submission will be considered in conjunction with relevant strategic plans such as the Playground Strategy (under way), the revision of the Port MacDonnell / River and Coastal Masterplan (anticipated 2026/27) and in preparation of the 2026-2027 Annual Business Plan and Budget.