The collaborative approach carried out by Central Coast Council to design and build Bato Yard was recognised at an international awards ceremony, held in October.
Council received a Highly Commended Award for the ‘People Powered Skate Place’ in the Infrastructure category of the IAP2 Australasia (International Association for Public Participation) Showcase of Core Values Awards. Council Director Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said Council was up against major projects from around the world, so this recognition for Bato Yard is signifi cant. “The award recognises the collaborative efforts of Council’s engagement, communication and open space teams, together with the community, to design and build the ultimate skate riding facility for the Coast,” Ms Vaughan said. “Our approach was to understand what the community wanted, and to empower the stakeholders to contribute, through user group workshops, community meetings, online surveys and forums.
“This award, as well as the popularity of the park, just keeps proving that the engagement approach we took is really working. “It’s more than just a riding facility for skateboards, scooters and bikes, it also has a real community feel about it, and also caters for spectators and families, as well as providing a basketball court and parkour elements,” Ms Vaughan said. Central Coast Mayor, Clr Jane Smith, said the award highlighted how genuine community engagement can result in projects being delivered that are truly valued by the community, and also generate interest beyond the Central Coast. “Bato Yard is a great example of where genuine community consultation resulted in a facility that is not only valued by the local community, but is also attracting national, and now even international, recognition,” Clr Smith said. “By working together, we can really deliver great things for our community that enhance our lifestyle as well as attract interest in what is happening here on the Coast.
Source: Media release, Oct 24 Central Coast Council Media