Families in St Andrews/Bow Bowing are a step closer to seeing Midlothian Reserve become a district park following a community campaign led by Member for Macquarie Fields, Anoulack Chanthivong MP.

Following the community’s overwhelming support of the campaign, Campbelltown Council has voted in favour of a motion supporting the delivery of the district park.

Mr Chanthivong said St Andrews/Bow Bowing residents have been waiting six years for action and he welcomed the news that Council would prepare a report detailing planning, timeline, community consultation and funding for the project. The report will be prepared and go to Council in 2023. Subject to Council consideration of the report and subsequent funding approval, the park will then be delivered.

In its State of Play Strategy (2016-2036), Council identified Midlothian Reserve as a suitable location for a district park. The strategy recommended enhancing Midlothian Reserve to a district park within 3-5 years.

“Finally, the long-awaited district park is a step closer to being delivered for St Andrews and Bow Bowing residents,” Mr Chanthivong said.

“My campaign received overwhelming support from the community, and I thank everyone for signing my petition.

“This is great news for the community and for local families.  A district park will deliver a quality recreational space families can enjoy, providing opportunities to get outdoors, be active and connect socially.  

“Ratepayers in St Andrews and Bow Bowing rightly expect Campbelltown Council to adhere to the recommendation in the State of Play Strategy and build quality recreational spaces for local families.

“I will continue to advocate for local families on this issue, together with Labor Councillors, because local residents deserve to have their voices heard and acted upon,” Mr Chanthivong said.

A district park would offer a wide variety of play equipment for kids of all ages and include seating, shading, shelter, barbecues, fencing, toilets, nature play and accessible playgrounds.

Mr Chanthivong launched an online petition in July 2022 calling on Council to build the district park in
St Andrews and Bow Bowing. Residents responded overwhelmingly, with more than 180 residents signing the petition.