Beloved Garden Faces Demolition Order After Years of Cultivation
BALLARAT, AUSTRALIA – A Ballarat woman’s meticulously maintained front garden, a labour of love spanning four decades, is at risk of being torn down following repeated complaints about pedestrian access. Aleida, a local resident, has spent years cultivating a vibrant display of flowers, stones, and grass, cherished by her neighbours. However,the City of Ballarat is now requesting she clear the garden to ensure a 1.5-metre clear path along the nature strip.
The dispute highlights a growing tension between residents’ desire for beautiful,biodiverse frontages and the council’s responsibility to maintain safe public access. While acknowledging Aleida’s dedication and the aesthetic value of her garden, the council states ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety – dating back to 2002 – prompted the request. Community members have reportedly been forced to walk on the road due to obstructed pathways, raising visibility issues for motorists.
For 40 years, Aleida has devoted hours each day to her garden, treating every element with care. The council initially inspected the property due to “repeated formal complaints” regarding unsafe pedestrian access. According to a statement released by the City of Ballarat, the complaints centered on the inability to safely navigate the nature strip without stepping onto the road.
The council’s recently adopted Nature Strip Garden Guidelines prioritize safety alongside green spaces, aiming to ensure clear access for pedestrians, vehicles, and essential services. The council has been in ongoing conversations with Aleida for years, encouraging her to comply with the pathway width requirement.
“We are empathetic towards Aleida’s situation as we can see the love and care she has put into her landscaping,” the council statement reads. ”Though, it is indeed vital that nature strips and pathways remain accessible to everyone.” The council has indicated it will withdraw any fines issued if Aleida carries out the necessary access improvements.
