The Dickson Squash Club Committee has updated us on the pending closure of the Dickson squash centre.
The Committee had a recent meeting with management of the Dickson Tradies and the CFMU (owners of the Northside Fitness Centre and squash courts). Unfortunately, the outcome was that the Tradies management confirmed that a six-story residential building would the place of the existing building probably June next year, or later in October next year. There would be no replacement for the squash courts.
This building is a registered squash center, though the “purpose clause” can be changed by application and by paying a substantial fee.
The Dickson Squash Club has a long history at these premises, dating back from 1968 ….that’s a 56 year history.
The Dickson Squash Club Committee has emailed key stakeholders regarding the matter.
As a broader community, and a niche sport, we encourage the Tradies to maintain and promote the sport for the squash playing community in our district and surrounds.
You are all encouraged to send your own correspondence to these people. The more of us that jump on board to state our concerns, the chances of our squash community gaining support from the right places become stronger.
Feel free to use some or all of the points further below in your email.
This is an ideal time to raise the matter, with the upcoming ACT election and potential for negative press.
Subject: Dickson Squash Club and the proposed redevelopment of the Canberra Tradies in Dickson
Chief Minister Andrew Barr – <BARR@act.gov.au>
The Chief planning officer – <George.Cilliers@act.gov.au>
Minister for Planning Chris Steel – <STEEL@act.gov.au
Leader of the Opposition Elizabeth Lee – <LEE@parliament.act.gov.au>;
Alison Percival, Chief executive officer, The Canberra Tradesmen’s Union Club – alison.percival@thetradies.com.au
Jason O’Mara, CFMEU, jason.omara@thetradies.com.au
SUGGESTED POINTS FOR USE IN AN EMAIL MESSAGE-
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing on behalf of concerned community members regarding the potential closure of the Dickson Squash centre, which has long been a cherished space for both recreation and fitness in the North Canberra local area. I urge you to consider the vital role this center plays in promoting health, well-being, and community engagement.
The squash center is not merely a facility for sport; it is a hub for social interaction and community-building, fostering an environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together. Whether it’s a casual game among friends or a competitive league match, the Dickson Squash center has created a welcoming space for:
– Promoting Health and Fitness,
– Youth Engagement, with a vibrant Junior squash league, and.
– Economic and Social Benefits, for example users of the Dickson Squash center benefit nearby businesses such as cafes and shops.
I firmly believe that we should be investing in, not removing, these types of facilities.
I respectfully request that your review any plans regarding the Dickson Squash center and explore potential avenues for providing squash playing facilities for the local community.
