Open spaces considered in this plan include parks, natural areas, linkage parks and pathways, some waterways and foreshores, informal parklands, sportsgrounds, courts, play spaces, First Nations caring for country, as well as recreation trails for walking and cycling.

The Plan will improve the links our open spaces provide along green corridors and through neighbourhoods. These connections are important for both our native wildlife (habitats and movement pathways) as well as for residents to walk, roll, and ride.

The draft plan considers specific principles in relation to all kinds of open spaces, including:

• Open space classifications, such as natural areas or sports parks
• City identity and the important role our open spaces play in celebrating that identity
• Access and connection to natural areas and recreational spaces
• Resilience to extreme events, including heatwaves and flooding
• Well designed parks and sports fields to meet our communities needs as well as well designed connections to our Natural Areas
• Environmental sustainability, including expanding our green network and protecting our conversation areas
• Activated parks that promote active lifestyles and community connection
• Financial sustainability, with a focus on providing equitable open space areas across the city
• Monitor and improve, with transparent reporting of outcomes to the community.

Looking to the future we are focused on:

• letting our parks tell our stories, show our character and identity both as a city and at our local neighbourhood level
• supporting higher density neighbourhoods with access to quality parks as backyards become smaller
• strengthening access and inclusion in all park-type areas so everyone can enjoy our parks no matter their background, age, gender or ability
• measuring, reporting and sharing our progress with our communities about open space provision and activation
• conserving, protecting and enhancing the environmental values of open space areas, with particular emphasis on protection and restoration of values in our natural areas
• connecting and linking parks into a network for biodiversity and vegetation coverage to minimise urban heat effects and preserve biodiversity and green space links
• recognise and value the ongoing connection of Traditional Custodians to the natural environment, including open spaces and waterways.

Council used Moreton Says data to understand our communities’ values and priorities around open spaces. We know our residents value both natural areas and recreational spaces very highly.

Council also undertook several background studies to make sure the draft Open Space Plan incorporates best practice planning.

Stakeholder workshops including an expert advisory panel were convened to develop the framework and review the principles and outcomes for open space areas across the city.