Mark Ward

2014 candidate for City of Mitcham.
Heritage survey responses.

What do you think Council's role is in protecting and conserving heritage?
Council is a vital part of protecting and conserving heritage. Mitcham has a diverse and varied history with some wonderful examples such as Carrick Hill, Old Government House, the Blackwood train station and some old buildings in Coromandel Valley.Preserving such assest allows for educational opportunities for future communities while appropriate legislation and regulation will ensure the rich history will be preserved and utilised appropriately. Education is a key part to Heritage.
What measures and incentives do you support to protect and conserve local heritage?
The maintenance of an active Heritage committee. Appropriate funding for staffing and education. Regular reports to Council and the community through a standing item. Community expertise on the committee.
What is the most important heritage protection issue in your local government area?
We have a state heritage area called Colonel Light Gardens. We also have colonial architecture, Old Government House and some historical houses in Blackwood and Belair.
What policies and programs will you advocate to protect and conserve heritage in your local area?
I support the Heritage Committee and its composition of Councilors and local expertise. I support working through an expert committee such as this and have always supported the committee in the Full Council chamber.
Do you support local Councils retaining development approval powers for projects over $3m in value?
Yes. It is important for people who are elected by the community to preserve the heritage of the area through the DAP. I do not support divulging any decisions about heritage to state government. Local Council as best suited to consider heritage.
Do you have any other thoughts about the protection of heritage in your Council area?
I'd like to see a widening of the list of heritage areas. Some local ovals for example are of historical importance and should be protected from development and phone towers. We need to protect what we have, include more areas of heritage value and ensure future generations can continue to preserve valuable community assets.