Council has vacant look in its eyes

By ZOE SATHERLEY

HOW does a park become a parcel of vacant commercial land?

That's a question Peter Bellew wants Lismore City Council to answer.

Council recently advertised for an 'expression of interest' in 'vacant commercial land' on the corner of Brewster and Magellan streets which has 'potential for commercial development'.

The only problem with that, says Lismore resident Mr Bellew, is that the land is part of Lismore Park and home to Lismore Soccer Club's grounds and clubhouse.

Council's manager of special projects and properties, Lindsay Walker, yesterday confirmed the land was indeed a park, but said council had 'put its toe in the water' to see what interest might be generated in using part of the land for a commercial venture.

He said any development would have to co-exist with the soccer club, which was in absolutely no danger of being ousted from its premises.

"We would love to get some public feedback on the proposal," Mr Walker said.