Northern Territory Government calls for public feedback on draft Parks Masterplan

A draft plan that outlines a significant 30-year management model of the Northern Territory Government’s 85 parks and reserves is now open for the final round of public comment.

The draft NT Parks Masterplan maps out ways to enhance visitor enjoyment and community engagement; and explores new business and economic opportunities in partnership with Traditional Owners.

Following the collation of feedback on the consultation paper that received almost 600 submissions, the draft provides Territorians with the opportunity to comment prior to the release of the NT Parks Masterplan 2022 - 2052 in November this year.

There is also an opportunity to comment on the draft NT Parks Activation Plan that provides a vision for the next decade of development and improvement of infrastructure on parks and reserves. It reflects the goals of the proposed Masterplan that outlines strategic management objectives through nine key themes:

• natural biodiversity values;

• living cultural values and heritage;

• joint management in partnership with Traditional Owners;

• recreational futures;

• tourism;

• Aboriginal economic development;

• partnerships;

• growing the estate; and

• park access.

Northern Territory Minister for Parks and Rangers Selena Uibo notes “the draft NT Parks Masterplan establishes a comprehensive and long-term strategy for our parks and reserves.

“The future of Territory parks and reserves is a shared responsibility and as such, the Masterplan has been informed by wide-ranging community and stakeholder views gathered through a consultation paper and survey process.

“The NT Parks Masterplan will provide a blueprint for the next 30 years and I urge members of the public from across the Territory’s urban, regional and remote areas to have a say in shaping the future of our parks and reserves.”

The draft plans will be open for comment for a period of six weeks with submissions invited online.

Comment before Tuesday 31st May 2022 at haveyoursay.nt.gov.au/parksmasterplan

Image: Larapinta Trail Courtesy: Tourism NT