Council resolves to return ownership of Merryfields Environmental Park

The future use of Merryfields Environmental Park at Withcott will now be directed by the State Government.

At its monthly Ordinary Council Meeting, Lockyer Valley Regional Council resolved to return management to the State Government in the first instance, thereby saving Council any future costs associated with the site.

Council was the trustee for the State Government owned land, which in recent years was used for disability support program purposes and environmental education by local non-profit groups.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council’s Corporate Services Portfolio Councillor and Deputy Mayor, Cr Chris Wilson said Council would also supply the State of Queensland with the names of the parties who have expressed interest in taking over the trusteeship of the lot.

“The property has been of some value to local non-profit groups, which we hope continues, but it is inefficient for Council to be managing this property on behalf of the State Government.

“In a time when higher levels of government are regularly shifting the cost of services onto local government and community, it’s only reasonable they manage their own land.

“We’re extremely confident in this decision and know this will allow us to further ensure our ratepayers’ funds are used in the most appropriate and responsible way that benefits the wider community.

“This is the message we send to our community constantly, including in the recent Budget.

“We are committed to building a long-term and sustainable future for our community and this is an example of our Council making a responsible decision.

“This will allow us to direct our funds into facilities that better serve the wider community, such as our sporting fields and parks.

“The State can facilitate for interested parties to tender for a lease over the site, which means our decision doesn’t limit the potential use of the facility,” Cr Wilson said.