Mayor's community Message

8 May

RYDE CIVIC CENTRE

One of the questions I’m most often asked surrounds the status of Ryde’s so-called ‘hole in the ground’ at the building site on 1 Devlin Street, otherwise known as Ryde Central.

I’m going to be transparent with our community about the processes that have led us to our current situation and the solutions moving forward so that Ryde can eventually have the state-of-the-art civic centre it deserves.

At the April Council Meeting, it was resolved that we will develop a Communications Plan to explain the circumstances of the Ryde Civic Centre to the community, including the referral to the Office of Local Government and the NSW ICAC of the discovery of improper fund transfers from External Reserves to the Ryde Central account.

I want the community to understand the financial ramifications that come from decisions made between 2018 and 2021 about the Ryde Civic Centre site. 

The plan will outline the financial ramifications to Council of the Voluntary Planning Agreements (VPAs) entered into by the previous Council and the ongoing impact on our long-term financial plan. 

It will also include the number of institutions/agencies that have agreed and supported Council’s decision to return the ‘illegally’ transferred Ryde Central funds to their rightful accounts.

HALL DEMOLITION

I was disappointed to discover that a proposal by School Infrastructure NSW (SINSW) to demolish the old Meadowbank School Hall is still being pursued, despite community consultation favouring the retention and refurbishment of the hall for multipurpose indoor sports.

At its April Meeting, Council resolved to request further information and justification for this decision by SINSW.

At a time when the State Government is considering radical housing policies that could exponentially increase the population of this City over coming years, the provision of recreational areas for our growing community has never been more important.

I would hope that common sense prevails, and we can make proper use of the existing hall when the former school land is rezoned to RE1 (Public Recreation).

TRIVIA NIGHT

The Salvation Army’s annual Red Shield Appeal is currently underway, raising vital funds for the essential work the Salvos undertake in communities across Australia, including our own.

On Friday 10 May, a Red Shield Appeal Trivia Night Fundraiser is being held at North Ryde School of Arts from 6.30 - 10.00pm.

It’s a great chance to enjoy a fun night out while contributing to a truly worthy cause. 

For more details click here.

The Red Shield Appeal doorknock will occur on Saturday 25th and Sunday 25th May. Please support this valuable charity when the Salvo’s knock on your door.

Yours Sincerely,

Clr Trenton Brown
Mayor - City of Ryde
Phone: Office of the Mayor 9952 8222.
Email mayor@ryde.nsw.gov.au