‘Bathhouse’ push residents back open space plan

Kim Waters
Plans for a replica sulphur bathhouse on Clifton Springs’ last remaining open space have the backing of residents, according to a community group.
A Save Our Spring Street Open Space (SOSOS) spokesperson said a survey of more than 100 residents backed the group’s proposal for a “passive recreation” space including the bathhouse on the site.
Earlier this year the group opposed plans for a housing estate on the Spring Street site.
Members lodged a 160-signature petition at council, leading to withdrawal of the proposal.
SOSOS member Neil McGuinness said a “considerable number” of residents supported the plans for the sulphur spa bathhouse.
“Most people wanted a working bathhouse exactly like Clifton Spring used to have along the foreshore,” Mr McGuinness said.
“It would be built on Spring Street, overlooking the Dell, and there would also be a historical display for visitors to look at.”
Mr McGuinness said survey participants had also requested walking trails, native vegetation, a bridge over the Spring Street Creek and a playground.
“We will now write up a formal proposal with these results and present it to council,” he said.
“A lot of the projects we want to do won’t be too expensive but some of them, like the bathhouse, will require a bit of funding. We’ve requested a private meeting with some councillors in June and they’ve agreed to meet with us and listen to the proposal.”
Drysdale Clifton Springs Community Association secondary Patrick Hughes hoped the project would secure funding.
“Local people should have a significant voice in the development of their area and this will be the first plan in Drysdale and Clifton Springs to be written by and for local people,” Mr Hughes said.
“I don’t think council really has a plan for the space now that they’ve withdrawn the housing estate proposal.
“Hopefully they will listen to the survey results and what the community wants for this site.”
Council had not returned the Independent’s call for comment before the paper went to press.