Investigating Demand for Recreational Land

As Australia's urban environments become more dense, a team from the Centre for Sport and Recreation Research (CSRR) at Curtin University is investigating public recreational access to land.
Accepting that the demand for land for recreational purposes becomes harder to fulfil, the CSSR team is also undertaking an international review of âright to roamâ policies and management, investigating public recreational access to land of varying tenure, to inform a strategic research direction for public access to land in Australia.
âAustralia is under-prepared for the increasing demand for recreational land,�? explained CSRR Director Professor Marian Tye.
âItâs happening faster than we realise, and both the legislative and non-legislative determinants governing public access to land are complex, and often ambiguous.
âFortunately, the WA Government realises the need to clearly define âaccessâ and better identify where and to what extent public access can be granted.�?
The research also involves the Curtin Sustainable Tourism Centre and the WA Department of Environment and Conservation. In a related project, CSRR will examine strategic planning of public
open space within Perthâs metropolitan area.
âThereâs some concern that active open space is being reduced by planning initiatives established for environmental reasons,�? Tye said.
âBecause active recreation is an important part of Perthâs lifestyle, policymakers need the knowledge that achieves a balance between human recreational needs and environmental measures that safeguard biodiversity and water resources.�?
The two projects are among several that Tye has initiated since being appointed as CSRRâs inaugural director early in 2009. The centre is also undertaking research that tackles issues of sustainability, through its partnership with WAâs Department of Sport and Recreation. The first of these research projects involves several of CSRRâs industry research associates, including Leisure Institute of WA (Aquatics), Royal Life Saving WA and Parks and Leisure Australia, to achieve water- and energy-efficient aquatic centres.
âCSRR is addressing the challenges that arise from environmental issues and population growth,�? Tye said.
âOur charter is to undertake research that helps build stronger, healthier, happier, safer and more sustainable communities.�?
For more information contact the Centre for Sport & Recreation Research on 08 9266 4844.
m.tye@curtin.edu.au