19 April 2016

Glebe Park is not for Floriade – it's a park!

| Paul Costigan
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glebepark-01

More than thirty years ago there was a very vocal community campaign to halt the complete takeover of Glebe Park.

The proposal by a large development company in partnership with the then government (how things change!) was to take out the trees and to change the northern section the park to an event space for a garden show titled The Tivoli Gardens. There were several other things to go in the southern parts of the site (it was much bigger then).

The business sector plus the government of the day set out to convinced the community that doing away with this historic green space and plonking this new event there would bring people into Civic, boost business and be a major tourist attraction.

In the end the larger proposal was killed off. The casino, hotel and convention centre went ahead on the southern sections.

As a consequence the sensible and logical decision was made to establish a flower show down by the lake in Commonwealth Park West. This is Floriade as we know it today.

Canberra benefits hugely from this annual event and its location is perfect. It is down by the lake and allows for people to get there without disrupting any neighbourhoods. It is a brilliant outcome! It is a local, national and international success story.

Disturbingly we now have the totally insane situation whereby the National Capital Authority (NCA) has decided that 2017 will be the last year that Floriade is to be held on this lakeside site.

The ACT Chief Minister when faced with this dilemma has chosen to ignore history, ignore the local community (again) and has chosen to risk opening up yet another fight with the local communities.

Mysteriously the ACT Government looks as though they are about to reignite a fight that the community had won in the early 1980s.

glebepark-02 glebepark-04

The site being proposed is Glebe Park. The case for this site is that having Floriade in Glebe Park would bring people into Civic, boost business and be a major tourist attraction. History is being repeated!

Gradually the residents are being softened up for the change of venue of Floriade from the lakeside park managed by the NCA on behalf of the Commonwealth Government.

Articles are being placed in the local paper with the help of journalists. The business sector is onside as they see no harm with interfering with this local heritage site, that just happens to be a wonderful parkland and is loved by and used by so many people.

Surely the Chief Minister and his bureaucracy have learnt from their experiences with Westside, Dickson, Yarralumla and Telopea Park. Surely they have come to realise that the Canberra community actually cares about our urban spaces and in particular our open spaces and wonderful parklands.

Locals will not be thankful to the Chief Minister and his development bureaucrats if one day they are confronted with hundreds of thousands of tourists arriving in the neighbourhood looking for parking. They will also be very resentful if this fabulous park is taken over for most of the year for an event such as Floriade – which is fabulously successful where it is right now.

Surely it is time that the ACT Government put a permanent claim on the use of Commonwealth Park West for a multitude of Canberra events such as Floriade.

glebepark-07 glebepark-03

Glebe Park is a park. It is not and should never be turned into an event space for Floriade that will take over major parts of the space for most of the year given the plant preparation time, the event itself and then the time it takes to remove all the stuff required.

Glebe Park is a gem on the side of Civic. It is a beautiful green space that is enjoyed by all sorts of people.

I say to this Chief Minister: Get someone outside your bureaucracy to talk to you about the value to the community of parks such as Glebe Park. Maybe even go for a stroll and have your lunch there several times and observe just how wonderful it is to be in a park.

That’s what parks are for. For enjoyment — and it is amazing what benefits such a place has on busy people’s health and well-being.

Please do not even think about letting this happen.

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Felix the Cat6:47 pm 13 Oct 15

Ghettosmurf87 said :

dungfungus said :

The subject of speed limits on the Tuggeranong Parkway related to cars, not bicycles (you referred to drivers, not riders). As you are aware, the legal limit on the Parkway for cars is 100KMH.
Now, please tell me what is the legal limit for cyclists on shared paths.
I saw someone on an electric mountain bike on a roadway at the weekend – speed was at least 50 kmh – much too fast.

The legal limit on the Parkway for ALL vehicles is 100Km/h. If the electric bicycle you observed was on a motorway, then I don’t see why 50Km/h is too fast unless the speed limit of the road was less than 50Km/h? Why would there be a different speed limit for cyclists on a road as there is for cars, when they are operating legally as vehicles on the same surface? May as well have different speed limits for motorbikes/4WD/utes/hatchbacks/busses/trucks…

Ummm…there already is different speed limits for different road users. P-platers have different speed limits to full licence holders as do heavy vehicles such as trucks.

Not sure what any of this has to do with moving Floriade from Commonwealth Park to Glebe Park?

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Is that “main safe cycle route” an exclusive thoroughfare for cyclists or a shared path?
If it is the first by all means fence it off but if it is indeed a shared path, speed limits should be enforced and speed humps introduced.

It was built in the 1970s as a cycle way, but was never legislated as that, so as for all paths in Canberra it is a shared path. (It should be remembered that it likely wouldn’t exist, but for bicycles.) People who want to walk along this, only usually have a problem with sharing when they refuse to keep left and don’t check before changing direction, wear earphones so they can’t hear bells and warning shouts, and have their dogs not fully under control with too long a lead and the like. Otherwise, there is usually no conflict.
I do believe though for the busiest sections, there should be segregated paths. But, how to keep people walking off the cycle path, even though there will be a neighbouring pedestrian path, will be tricky.
It is a main cycle route, the closest for people cycling as main road routes, such as the Tuggeranong Parkway, are for people driving. How would it feel if someone suggested lowering the speed limit for the Tuggeranong Parkway and adding speed humps?

There are already speed restrictions and radar cameras on the Tuggeranong Parkway – speed bumps not required.
Didn’t I read somewhere on this blog that the speed limit for cyclists on shared paths was 10KMH?

I think I read somewhere that the speed limit on the Tuggeranong Parkway is 30kph.

Both are wrong.

So, what are the correct speed limits (according to you)?

Um, perhaps 30kms for both the cycleway and the Tuggeranong Parkway. If you think a person cycling should only be able to travel home and to work at 10kms (that’s an hour’s journey for ten kms. Two hours for twenty kms.), why shouldn’t the people in cars have to travel slowly too?
Seriously though, I have rarely, if ever, found people cycling past me as I walk along the path a worry. But that’s because I walk along the very left edge of the shared path and check the traffic before I change direction. People who complain about people cycling past are likely those (too many) I see not keeping on the left edge of the path and making sudden changes in direction without considering other path users. I even saw a group of people walking side by side right across the width of the path yell at a passing cyclist that they had more rights than the cyclist to be there. And this right beside by a sign directing everyone to keep left and not block the path for others.
As for a top speed limit. Very few people on bikes can and do reach dangerous speeds. The odd person might speed. Wow, how often do some cars speed. But most people are careful. The speeds that are happening now are mostly fine. Electric bikes are becoming more popular. I believe many of the motors cut out at 25kph.

The subject of speed limits on the Tuggeranong Parkway related to cars, not bicycles (you referred to drivers, not riders). As you are aware, the legal limit on the Parkway for cars is 100KMH.
Now, please tell me what is the legal limit for cyclists on shared paths.
I saw someone on an electric mountain bike on a roadway at the weekend – speed was at least 50 kmh – much too fast.

As far as I am aware there is no speed limit for people on bicycles, I guess because most people on bicycles can’t get to dangerous speeds, especially on our rough, badly maintained shared paths. If an electric bicycle was going “at least 50 kmh” (you have something to accurately measure the speed, do you, to be certain of this?), either the rider was an unusually fit athlete, or the electric bicycle was not legal. Electric bikes are regulated and limited in power, if they are legal.
Why are you concerned about a non problem? If you are finding a problem with your interaction with people on bicycles, might I suggest that you should consider what in your behaviour might be contributing to this. I say this, because I have never had a problem when sharing the paths when walking, with bicycles. Last night for instance, I was walking along a shared path in peak hour (people going home from work), as bicycles passed me, but as I was walking on the very left edge of the path, even the swiftest bike was not a hazard. In fact I received several friendly smiles and waves. I hope this wasn’t because my consideration in where I walked was not the average. I like to think that my fellow walkers are more considerate than that; however sadly from my observations, this isn’t always the case. And then they have the audacity to blame people on bicycles.

Ghettosmurf8711:25 am 13 Oct 15

dungfungus said :

The subject of speed limits on the Tuggeranong Parkway related to cars, not bicycles (you referred to drivers, not riders). As you are aware, the legal limit on the Parkway for cars is 100KMH.
Now, please tell me what is the legal limit for cyclists on shared paths.
I saw someone on an electric mountain bike on a roadway at the weekend – speed was at least 50 kmh – much too fast.

The legal limit on the Parkway for ALL vehicles is 100Km/h. If the electric bicycle you observed was on a motorway, then I don’t see why 50Km/h is too fast unless the speed limit of the road was less than 50Km/h? Why would there be a different speed limit for cyclists on a road as there is for cars, when they are operating legally as vehicles on the same surface? May as well have different speed limits for motorbikes/4WD/utes/hatchbacks/busses/trucks…

As to the speed limit on shared paths, I am not aware if there is one. Perhaps someone could check, rather than wild speculation?

It seems to me that the only reason Glebe Park was mooted was because Civic traders are lobbying for it to be near them. But to me that aspect is irrelevant – people will travel to Floriade, wherever it is, just as they do now, and a number never go into Civic afterwards now (I certainly don’t – in fact I simply avoid Civic these days because of the excessive pay parking regime).
Wherever Floriade is located, you would need space for temporary parking (which hopefully will be free instead of the last couple of years’ gouging) and bus and coach access. Most suggested options are far better than Glebe Park for this. For example, Weston Park has loads of space and is already a gorgeous, horticulturally suitable location. Further, it is practically smack bang in the middle of Canberra, and on LBG. People can be encouraged to travel to the new location on special buses, just as they are now.

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Is that “main safe cycle route” an exclusive thoroughfare for cyclists or a shared path?
If it is the first by all means fence it off but if it is indeed a shared path, speed limits should be enforced and speed humps introduced.

It was built in the 1970s as a cycle way, but was never legislated as that, so as for all paths in Canberra it is a shared path. (It should be remembered that it likely wouldn’t exist, but for bicycles.) People who want to walk along this, only usually have a problem with sharing when they refuse to keep left and don’t check before changing direction, wear earphones so they can’t hear bells and warning shouts, and have their dogs not fully under control with too long a lead and the like. Otherwise, there is usually no conflict.
I do believe though for the busiest sections, there should be segregated paths. But, how to keep people walking off the cycle path, even though there will be a neighbouring pedestrian path, will be tricky.
It is a main cycle route, the closest for people cycling as main road routes, such as the Tuggeranong Parkway, are for people driving. How would it feel if someone suggested lowering the speed limit for the Tuggeranong Parkway and adding speed humps?

There are already speed restrictions and radar cameras on the Tuggeranong Parkway – speed bumps not required.
Didn’t I read somewhere on this blog that the speed limit for cyclists on shared paths was 10KMH?

I think I read somewhere that the speed limit on the Tuggeranong Parkway is 30kph.

Both are wrong.

So, what are the correct speed limits (according to you)?

Um, perhaps 30kms for both the cycleway and the Tuggeranong Parkway. If you think a person cycling should only be able to travel home and to work at 10kms (that’s an hour’s journey for ten kms. Two hours for twenty kms.), why shouldn’t the people in cars have to travel slowly too?
Seriously though, I have rarely, if ever, found people cycling past me as I walk along the path a worry. But that’s because I walk along the very left edge of the shared path and check the traffic before I change direction. People who complain about people cycling past are likely those (too many) I see not keeping on the left edge of the path and making sudden changes in direction without considering other path users. I even saw a group of people walking side by side right across the width of the path yell at a passing cyclist that they had more rights than the cyclist to be there. And this right beside by a sign directing everyone to keep left and not block the path for others.
As for a top speed limit. Very few people on bikes can and do reach dangerous speeds. The odd person might speed. Wow, how often do some cars speed. But most people are careful. The speeds that are happening now are mostly fine. Electric bikes are becoming more popular. I believe many of the motors cut out at 25kph.

The subject of speed limits on the Tuggeranong Parkway related to cars, not bicycles (you referred to drivers, not riders). As you are aware, the legal limit on the Parkway for cars is 100KMH.
Now, please tell me what is the legal limit for cyclists on shared paths.
I saw someone on an electric mountain bike on a roadway at the weekend – speed was at least 50 kmh – much too fast.

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Is that “main safe cycle route” an exclusive thoroughfare for cyclists or a shared path?
If it is the first by all means fence it off but if it is indeed a shared path, speed limits should be enforced and speed humps introduced.

It was built in the 1970s as a cycle way, but was never legislated as that, so as for all paths in Canberra it is a shared path. (It should be remembered that it likely wouldn’t exist, but for bicycles.) People who want to walk along this, only usually have a problem with sharing when they refuse to keep left and don’t check before changing direction, wear earphones so they can’t hear bells and warning shouts, and have their dogs not fully under control with too long a lead and the like. Otherwise, there is usually no conflict.
I do believe though for the busiest sections, there should be segregated paths. But, how to keep people walking off the cycle path, even though there will be a neighbouring pedestrian path, will be tricky.
It is a main cycle route, the closest for people cycling as main road routes, such as the Tuggeranong Parkway, are for people driving. How would it feel if someone suggested lowering the speed limit for the Tuggeranong Parkway and adding speed humps?

There are already speed restrictions and radar cameras on the Tuggeranong Parkway – speed bumps not required.
Didn’t I read somewhere on this blog that the speed limit for cyclists on shared paths was 10KMH?

I think I read somewhere that the speed limit on the Tuggeranong Parkway is 30kph.

Both are wrong.

So, what are the correct speed limits (according to you)?

Um, perhaps 30kms for both the cycleway and the Tuggeranong Parkway. If you think a person cycling should only be able to travel home and to work at 10kms (that’s an hour’s journey for ten kms. Two hours for twenty kms.), why shouldn’t the people in cars have to travel slowly too?
Seriously though, I have rarely, if ever, found people cycling past me as I walk along the path a worry. But that’s because I walk along the very left edge of the shared path and check the traffic before I change direction. People who complain about people cycling past are likely those (too many) I see not keeping on the left edge of the path and making sudden changes in direction without considering other path users. I even saw a group of people walking side by side right across the width of the path yell at a passing cyclist that they had more rights than the cyclist to be there. And this right beside by a sign directing everyone to keep left and not block the path for others.
As for a top speed limit. Very few people on bikes can and do reach dangerous speeds. The odd person might speed. Wow, how often do some cars speed. But most people are careful. The speeds that are happening now are mostly fine. Electric bikes are becoming more popular. I believe many of the motors cut out at 25kph.

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Is that “main safe cycle route” an exclusive thoroughfare for cyclists or a shared path?
If it is the first by all means fence it off but if it is indeed a shared path, speed limits should be enforced and speed humps introduced.

It was built in the 1970s as a cycle way, but was never legislated as that, so as for all paths in Canberra it is a shared path. (It should be remembered that it likely wouldn’t exist, but for bicycles.) People who want to walk along this, only usually have a problem with sharing when they refuse to keep left and don’t check before changing direction, wear earphones so they can’t hear bells and warning shouts, and have their dogs not fully under control with too long a lead and the like. Otherwise, there is usually no conflict.
I do believe though for the busiest sections, there should be segregated paths. But, how to keep people walking off the cycle path, even though there will be a neighbouring pedestrian path, will be tricky.
It is a main cycle route, the closest for people cycling as main road routes, such as the Tuggeranong Parkway, are for people driving. How would it feel if someone suggested lowering the speed limit for the Tuggeranong Parkway and adding speed humps?

There are already speed restrictions and radar cameras on the Tuggeranong Parkway – speed bumps not required.
Didn’t I read somewhere on this blog that the speed limit for cyclists on shared paths was 10KMH?

I think I read somewhere that the speed limit on the Tuggeranong Parkway is 30kph.

Both are wrong.

So, what are the correct speed limits (according to you)?

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Is that “main safe cycle route” an exclusive thoroughfare for cyclists or a shared path?
If it is the first by all means fence it off but if it is indeed a shared path, speed limits should be enforced and speed humps introduced.

It was built in the 1970s as a cycle way, but was never legislated as that, so as for all paths in Canberra it is a shared path. (It should be remembered that it likely wouldn’t exist, but for bicycles.) People who want to walk along this, only usually have a problem with sharing when they refuse to keep left and don’t check before changing direction, wear earphones so they can’t hear bells and warning shouts, and have their dogs not fully under control with too long a lead and the like. Otherwise, there is usually no conflict.
I do believe though for the busiest sections, there should be segregated paths. But, how to keep people walking off the cycle path, even though there will be a neighbouring pedestrian path, will be tricky.
It is a main cycle route, the closest for people cycling as main road routes, such as the Tuggeranong Parkway, are for people driving. How would it feel if someone suggested lowering the speed limit for the Tuggeranong Parkway and adding speed humps?

There are already speed restrictions and radar cameras on the Tuggeranong Parkway – speed bumps not required.
Didn’t I read somewhere on this blog that the speed limit for cyclists on shared paths was 10KMH?

I think I read somewhere that the speed limit on the Tuggeranong Parkway is 30kph.

Both are wrong.

watto23 said :

If its moved, its going to have to be at one of 5 locations IMO. Weston Park, Yarramundi Reach, Black Mountain Peninsula, Kings Park or Stirling Park. None are close to existing public transport options, no carparking remotely close either.

Kings Park though is probably the best solution. Heaps of defence parking across the road, great for weekends, bad for weekdays.

The current location is close to public transport hub of civic, close to plenty of parking (despite what some think). Gelebe park is too small. However Kings park could work with the lightrail extension perhaps?

Also I’ve wonder why there isn’t a ferry service on during Floriade? surely that would be useful, allow people to park at various spots around the lake and catch the ferry to Floriade wherever it is held?

That would have to be a Car Ferry. We established early on in one of the other forums that most people consider it socially unacceptable to be asked to get out of their cars.

Maya123 said :

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Is that “main safe cycle route” an exclusive thoroughfare for cyclists or a shared path?
If it is the first by all means fence it off but if it is indeed a shared path, speed limits should be enforced and speed humps introduced.

It was built in the 1970s as a cycle way, but was never legislated as that, so as for all paths in Canberra it is a shared path. (It should be remembered that it likely wouldn’t exist, but for bicycles.) People who want to walk along this, only usually have a problem with sharing when they refuse to keep left and don’t check before changing direction, wear earphones so they can’t hear bells and warning shouts, and have their dogs not fully under control with too long a lead and the like. Otherwise, there is usually no conflict.
I do believe though for the busiest sections, there should be segregated paths. But, how to keep people walking off the cycle path, even though there will be a neighbouring pedestrian path, will be tricky.
It is a main cycle route, the closest for people cycling as main road routes, such as the Tuggeranong Parkway, are for people driving. How would it feel if someone suggested lowering the speed limit for the Tuggeranong Parkway and adding speed humps?

There are already speed restrictions and radar cameras on the Tuggeranong Parkway – speed bumps not required.
Didn’t I read somewhere on this blog that the speed limit for cyclists on shared paths was 10KMH?

dungfungus said :

Maya123 said :

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Is that “main safe cycle route” an exclusive thoroughfare for cyclists or a shared path?
If it is the first by all means fence it off but if it is indeed a shared path, speed limits should be enforced and speed humps introduced.

It was built in the 1970s as a cycle way, but was never legislated as that, so as for all paths in Canberra it is a shared path. (It should be remembered that it likely wouldn’t exist, but for bicycles.) People who want to walk along this, only usually have a problem with sharing when they refuse to keep left and don’t check before changing direction, wear earphones so they can’t hear bells and warning shouts, and have their dogs not fully under control with too long a lead and the like. Otherwise, there is usually no conflict.
I do believe though for the busiest sections, there should be segregated paths. But, how to keep people walking off the cycle path, even though there will be a neighbouring pedestrian path, will be tricky.
It is a main cycle route, the closest for people cycling as main road routes, such as the Tuggeranong Parkway, are for people driving. How would it feel if someone suggested lowering the speed limit for the Tuggeranong Parkway and adding speed humps?

If its moved, its going to have to be at one of 5 locations IMO. Weston Park, Yarramundi Reach, Black Mountain Peninsula, Kings Park or Stirling Park. None are close to existing public transport options, no carparking remotely close either.

Kings Park though is probably the best solution. Heaps of defence parking across the road, great for weekends, bad for weekdays.

The current location is close to public transport hub of civic, close to plenty of parking (despite what some think). Gelebe park is too small. However Kings park could work with the lightrail extension perhaps?

Also I’ve wonder why there isn’t a ferry service on during Floriade? surely that would be useful, allow people to park at various spots around the lake and catch the ferry to Floriade wherever it is held?

Maya123 said :

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Is that “main safe cycle route” an exclusive thoroughfare for cyclists or a shared path?
If it is the first by all means fence it off but if it is indeed a shared path, speed limits should be enforced and speed humps introduced.

Zan said :

astrojax said :

suerly weston park would a far more preferable location than glebe park – which as paul rightly points out is a ‘park’ and a real green gem adjacent to the bustle of civic (where you can take children to burn off energy during shopping expeditions) that should never be compromised. i also agree that it is too small and entirely unsuited to the needs of the flower spectacle.

weston park is also on the lake, though access could be a problem – so i’m sure would never happen with the likely strong advocacy against it by the affected yarralumla residents. but that would be for a few weeks a year, so perhaps the nca could adjudge against them. anyway, a thought.

but hands off glebe park, ffs!

Weston Park should never ever be considered for many many reasons. First I am not a resident of Yarralumla. Weston Park is too small. One small road in, not much parking space for the many thousands of people who can’t walk a kilometre. Then there are the kangaroos there, two separate mobs. Do we just shoot them? Maybe the kids train would like the thought of more customers. Leave Weston Park alone.

Fill in Lake Burley Griffin and build a freeway from Black Mountain Peninsula based on the “Wipe out what you’ve come to see with easy driving/parking” principle. To showcase the best of Canberra we can build multi-storey car concrete parking all around Floriade. Dismantle and relocate the car parking from Belconnen, Woden and Tuggeranong, once the Malls finally cease operating.

or

Relocate Floriade to the Airport along with the rest of Canberra and we could all stop paying rates, get the free local kerosene air freshener, and Infrastructure Australia could be our new Overlord with every suburban street a 6 lane freeway paid for by Federal funding.

or

Best of all change it to The Tulip Car Park Fest which is as God meant it to be in the Canberra City National Car Parks with the tulips in the dead dividers with the broken bitumen and concrete. This probably is the ideal location as it will let everyone park right next to the flowers and not have to get out of their cars. Ever.

gooterz said :

Masquara said :

Looks as though the plan is to alter Floriade (which won’t cram into Glebe Park) into bait to attract an overflow of people into the city centre to – um, shop? Gamble? If they think tourists to Canberra will be impressed by the shopping in Civic, or what passes for our casino, they’re having a lend of themselves. 666 seemed to be getting complaints this morning that Floriade has been downsized already in preparation. I guess Andrew Barr thought that that dire million-dollar Futsal popup thing would provide some commerce as an adjunct to the existing Floriade this year. Wrong!

More a distraction as more carparks/playing areas are turned into ugly yuppie apartments. Making that public space next to the lake a paid for one by developers.

I know, car parks are so much better looking!

Postalgeek said :

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

The cycle path could still operate. Fence it off to stop people wandering across it. People could still ride or walk along it. Besides, a new path is to be constructed along the lake’s shore, which would free up the park.

Masquara said :

Looks as though the plan is to alter Floriade (which won’t cram into Glebe Park) into bait to attract an overflow of people into the city centre to – um, shop? Gamble? If they think tourists to Canberra will be impressed by the shopping in Civic, or what passes for our casino, they’re having a lend of themselves. 666 seemed to be getting complaints this morning that Floriade has been downsized already in preparation. I guess Andrew Barr thought that that dire million-dollar Futsal popup thing would provide some commerce as an adjunct to the existing Floriade this year. Wrong!

More a distraction as more carparks/playing areas are turned into ugly yuppie apartments. Making that public space next to the lake a paid for one by developers.

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

You think it’s possible that Bowen could be used without the main safe cycle route to Kingston/Manuka/Inner South being closed off for several months(not to mention the Lake loop)?

How about Haig Park – a sadly neglected potential jewel that might benefit from the exposure.

Holden Caulfield1:19 pm 11 Oct 15

yellowsnow said :

…kind of remote and devoid of trees

1999 called, it wants its insults back.

Belconnen Mall to Canberra GPO = 8.3km
Woden Plaza to Canberra GPO = 10.6km
Gungahlin Town Centre to Canberra GPO = 12.0km
Tuggeranong Hyperdome to Canberra GPO = 21.6km

It’s not central, I agree, but much of Gungahlin is just not as far out as people think. Palmerston, Nicholls and Ngunnawal are all now 20 years , more than enough time for trees to mature. I’m guessing it’s been a while since you’ve graced Gungahlin with your presence.

There’s plenty of other things to criticise Gungahlin about withoiut resorting to tired cliches.

astrojax said :

suerly weston park would a far more preferable location than glebe park – which as paul rightly points out is a ‘park’ and a real green gem adjacent to the bustle of civic (where you can take children to burn off energy during shopping expeditions) that should never be compromised. i also agree that it is too small and entirely unsuited to the needs of the flower spectacle.

weston park is also on the lake, though access could be a problem – so i’m sure would never happen with the likely strong advocacy against it by the affected yarralumla residents. but that would be for a few weeks a year, so perhaps the nca could adjudge against them. anyway, a thought.

but hands off glebe park, ffs!

Weston Park should never ever be considered for many many reasons. First I am not a resident of Yarralumla. Weston Park is too small. One small road in, not much parking space for the many thousands of people who can’t walk a kilometre. Then there are the kangaroos there, two separate mobs. Do we just shoot them? Maybe the kids train would like the thought of more customers. Leave Weston Park alone.

+1 for the Telopea Park/Bowen Park alternative. Some of the other parks around the lake would be better than Glebe Park which has little parking and clashes with people using the city for other purposes, imagine the congestion. But why do we even need to move it altogether? Commonwealth Park is perfect and showcases the city’s attractions.

If they absolutely must, then just put a small add on (eg native garden, displays or “special exhibit”) in Glebe Park and include it in marketing/brochures) – that way some extra people will come. But theres not exactly a lot of businesses right by Glebe Park except the casino, its a bit of a dead zone. And the flats will be knocked down and under construction so that will be lovely for people’s photo backdrops.

Maya123 said :

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

Best solution suggested so far. Close to Kingston Railway Station also.

Looks as though the plan is to alter Floriade (which won’t cram into Glebe Park) into bait to attract an overflow of people into the city centre to – um, shop? Gamble? If they think tourists to Canberra will be impressed by the shopping in Civic, or what passes for our casino, they’re having a lend of themselves. 666 seemed to be getting complaints this morning that Floriade has been downsized already in preparation. I guess Andrew Barr thought that that dire million-dollar Futsal popup thing would provide some commerce as an adjunct to the existing Floriade this year. Wrong!

Isn’t it amazing how politicians always think they know best.Everything has to be changed every few years simply because either they or their family have outgrown a particular event,location or whatever.Hopefully they’d have more than they could handle by way of people power if they try to interfere with Haig Park, Glebe Park,or any other park.

Glebe Park to me is too small and unsuitable. If Commonwealth Park is no longer available, a suggestion would be Telopea Park and Bowen Park combined. Lake frontage and near the bus markets, which could be utilised during the event. Buses run along Wentworth Avenue. Plus Kingston Shops are close. Plus some hotels.

If Commonwealth Park is not available and somewhere close to the city is needed, I suggest the triangular bit of land in Turner bounded by Watson St, Masson St and the drain that turns into Sullivan’s Creek just over Barry Drive. It appears to be currently unused at the moment, except for a bike track that goes through the centre, which could remain. The drain could be converted into a water feature with ponds and water flowers, giving a much-needed innovation for the rather tired Floriade concept.

I agree Glebe Park is too beautiful and too well used now to be taken over for Floriade.

Ok, so NCA has said “not in Commonwealth Park” – have you got any constructive suggestions Paul, other than “not in Glebe Park”?

yellowsnow said :

rosscoact said :

Build the tram and hold it in Gungahlin. It is a beautiful part of the city and has a lower whinger-to-square-metre ratio than most other places

LOL!!!! Surely you jest. It’d be like moving the Chelsea Flower Show to Kazakhstan.

Nice country, home to Borat and other friendly people, but kind of remote and devoid of trees

And there you have the second criteria proven while the first is inarguable.

yellowsnow said :

LOL!!!! Surely you jest. It’d be like moving the Chelsea Flower Show to Kazakhstan.

Wasn’t that already suggested?

Oh sorry, that was Tuggeranong.

yellowsnow said :

rosscoact said :

Build the tram and hold it in Gungahlin. It is a beautiful part of the city and has a lower whinger-to-square-metre ratio than most other places

LOL!!!! Surely you jest. It’d be like moving the Chelsea Flower Show to Kazakhstan.

Nice country, home to Borat and other friendly people, but kind of remote and devoid of trees

Floriade has got pretty lame. Tents spruiking things most people don’t want. Overpriced, bad food. The same crappy country fair rides. Why not open it up to every nursery in the ACT, they could each have an exhibit? It could be a useful, interesting, vibrant garden show.

rosscoact said :

Build the tram and hold it in Gungahlin. It is a beautiful part of the city and has a lower whinger-to-square-metre ratio than most other places

LOL!!!! Surely you jest. It’d be like moving the Chelsea Flower Show to Kazakhstan.

Nice country, home to Borat and other friendly people, but kind of remote and devoid of trees

Build the tram and hold it in Gungahlin. It is a beautiful part of the city and has a lower whinger-to-square-metre ratio than most other places

How much does it cost to run?

Dreadnaught1905 said :

rubaiyat said :

I appreciate you raising the need for more and better parks, in the City particularly with the increased residential density. Haig Park can completely redone, and many of the dead car parks should be converted to full parkland, with parking underneath, as in many towns in France. These should take the pressure of Glebe Park as virtually the only usable green space that doesn’t have cars all over it.

I completely agree with the idea of moving the fundamentally ugly carparks underneath usable, wonderful and refreshing green spaces in the city. Unfortunately, I suspect that such a thing would be cost prohibitive for our current — and likely almost any future — ACT government.

‘cos concrete and asphalt are so attractive….

I assume the car parks would be multiple levels deep and extremely lucrative. There seem to be a lot of people out there who can’t add up, but want you to store their 2 tonne means of getting to the city all day, at great expense.

Dreadnaught19052:35 pm 07 Oct 15

rubaiyat said :

I appreciate you raising the need for more and better parks, in the City particularly with the increased residential density. Haig Park can completely redone, and many of the dead car parks should be converted to full parkland, with parking underneath, as in many towns in France. These should take the pressure of Glebe Park as virtually the only usable green space that doesn’t have cars all over it.

I completely agree with the idea of moving the fundamentally ugly carparks underneath usable, wonderful and refreshing green spaces in the city. Unfortunately, I suspect that such a thing would be cost prohibitive for our current — and likely almost any future — ACT government.

‘cos concrete and asphalt are so attractive….

Bowral holds its superior Tulip Time in the small Corbett Gardens.

The major landscaping and beds do not have to be, nor should they be, temporary.

The specific bulbs put in can be changed, but I think the beds should be fixed. In Corbell Gardens they are mounded to form steep displays clearly appreciated by people at ground level.

The distinguishing differences between Bowral’s Tulip Time and Canberra’s Floriade is aesthetics, principally the lack of it in Floriade with its rent a fence, turnstiles and tatty marquee village.

Glebe Park has a bounding iron railing fence and quality gates. I am sure that if talented landscapers are employed, a more permanent and thought through effort in Glebe Park would work. The commercial part could be housed in the southern Conference Centre end, which could be demolished and restructured as a better less ugly purpose built light largely glazed structure for the annual event plus other major events.

A really big proviso is that the lawns are protected and that the LR gets extended down Constitution Ave to provide the principle transport access.

I appreciate you raising the need for more and better parks, in the City particularly with the increased residential density. Haig Park can completely redone, and many of the dead car parks should be converted to full parkland, with parking underneath, as in many towns in France. These should take the pressure of Glebe Park as virtually the only usable green space that doesn’t have cars all over it.

suerly weston park would a far more preferable location than glebe park – which as paul rightly points out is a ‘park’ and a real green gem adjacent to the bustle of civic (where you can take children to burn off energy during shopping expeditions) that should never be compromised. i also agree that it is too small and entirely unsuited to the needs of the flower spectacle.

weston park is also on the lake, though access could be a problem – so i’m sure would never happen with the likely strong advocacy against it by the affected yarralumla residents. but that would be for a few weeks a year, so perhaps the nca could adjudge against them. anyway, a thought.

but hands off glebe park, ffs!

I don’t like Floriade. I think it’s had its day. But I’d rather see it stay right where it is, than take over the city centre. It makes no sense to move it away from the lakeside, and it make even less sense to destroy one of the few planned, landscaped, and well looked after parks in the city. Not to mention the added congestion it will undoubtedly cause in an increasingly congested part of the city.

I want to thank you Paul for being such a great advocate for what most Canberrans truly think about planning in this town. Sadly a number of our MLAs seem completely captured and blinkered by their respective departments and this means they are not truly representative. And I totally agree about the value of green space to the community.
I wonder, would there be a better location in another town centre for Floriade? As a Tuggers resident I would personally be delighted if the ACT Govt considered putting Floriade (or other desirable events) in Tuggeranong, e.g. using land adjacent to, or incorporated into a part of, our lovely Tuggeranong town park. Tuggeranong is easily accessible via the Monaro Hwy, the Tuggeranong Parkway, Atthlon Drive and Erindale Drive, AND it has a lake and the wonderful Brindabellas – it would be a great advertisement for Canberra and would resolve the Glebe Park issue (Glebe Park being too small and unsuitable anyway, I would have thought). The other eminently suitable location would be the swathe of defence land in Weston Creek.
The govt just has to think a bit more laterally instead of focusing on Civic all the time.
PS has anyone noticed the NCA is trying to change Civic into ‘City’? This is simply daft, as Civic is just one of a number of town centres in Canberra which should all be treated equally by the power that be. Plus, removing ‘Civic’ is to deny our history. How dare they try to erase our history?

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