Chisholm council land to remain open green space after protected bird discovery

Newy 87.8 FM – Maitland City Council-owned land along Billabong Parade in Chisholm will be used as public open space to support the area's growing community.

The land was originally earmarked by Council for a neighbourhood sportsground. However, the discovery of Latham's Snipe, a bird species protected under the federal government's Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, means the location is not suitable for the facilities and sporting fields needed.

The 4.5-hectare site will instead become public open space that can support recreational activity, including potential walking trails, natural playspaces and large open space.

Maitland City Council General Manager Jeff Smith said the space cannot accommodate the modern facilities and infrastructure expected for sporting grounds in 2026, including bright lights and sporting nets.

"While we can't progress a state-of-the-art sports complex in the area, we will continue to consider what can be done there and in the meantime we can give the people of Chisholm another open space to gather and enjoy the local area," Mr Smith said.

Mr Smith pointed to the Chisholm Sports Complex on Suncroft Street, due to be completed next year, which features two mixed sports fields across two hectares, toilets, showers, change rooms, cricket nets and a dedicated playground.

Council will continue to investigate other locations for more sporting facilities in the area in line with its Community Infrastructure Strategy.

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