In April, Brighton Council endorsed its first ever Social Infrastructure Plan. The Plan identifies the gaps and needs for social infrastructure across the municipality until 2042, especially important given the projected rapid population growth in the area.

Social infrastructure includes open space and recreational areas and community and cultural facilities – providing the places and spaces for people to meet, be active, connect, create and learn. They also represent an important touchpoint for service providers to connect with the community through the delivery of services and amenities.

Mayor Leigh Gray believes that social infrastructure is vitally important to create inspiring spaces that sustain community well-being and give our residents the opportunity to thrive. “Social infrastructure plays an integral part in bringing people together and provides opportunities for individuals, families, and communities to develop life skills; create healthy lifestyles; and to engage socially,” Mayor Gray said. “It provides opportunities for all persons to maximise their potential, through diversity in educational, cultural, sporting, social and recreational offerings.”

The plan identified a number of key challenges such as lack of youth space, areas of social disadvantage and lack of connection between our neighbourhoods. There is also a significant undersupply of doctors (such as GPs) living and working in the Brighton Council area.

Our projected rapid population growth provides an opportunity to bring places to life by improving the vibrancy of our neighbourhoods through the development of creative infrastructure and local cultural spaces.

Some of the key priority areas for Council include upgrading our existing community facilities such as halls, sporting facilities and walking and cycling networks. The plan identifies the need for the creation of a new social infrastructure node or area – possibly around the Council Chambers. There are also a number of strategies to activate places through a community activation grant program, pop-up spaces for events, art and affordable workspace.

To find out more about Brighton’s Social Infrastructure Plan you can read it on our website at www.brighton.tas.gov.au/planning/strategic-plans.