18 November 2021
A Greens’ Private Members Bill that would have prevented the Government from rezoning the Parklands without the approval of both Houses of Parliament, was defeated in the Upper House last night with only SA Best joining the Greens and voting in support.
“This is a dark day for the Parklands. Labor have sided with the Liberals to kill off this bill - effectively giving the Government the green light to press ahead with its rezoning plans,” said Greens MLC Robert Simms, who introduced the Private Members Bill.
“This doesn’t just mean the Riverbank Arena is still on the agenda but also the other rezoning proposed by the Government - creating the potential for cafes, restaurants and apartment towers.”
“Giving the Liberals the right to rezone the Parklands is like giving Count Dracula the keys to the blood bank. Our Parklands shouldn’t be something developers can sink their teeth into.”
“Labor should be defending our public space not enabling its commercialisation. Labor must now explain why they opposed this bill and what they have in mind for the Parklands should they be elected to Government,” said Mr Simms.