The ACT Government’s decision to extend the Molonglo River Reserve in Stromlo and Denman Prospect, covering part of the area commonly referred to as ‘Bluetts Block’, has been welcomed by NPA ACT.

‘This is an important and beautiful conservation area on Canberra’s western fringe, and it’s great news that parts of Bluetts Block will be protected from development,’ said NPA president Dr Rosemary Hollow .

‘The decision is a tribute to the work of the local community and conservation groups, which have been campaigning for many years to protect this ecologically diverse area.’ 

To enable the protection of Bluetts Block, a Minor Plan Amendment has been approved by the Territory Planning Authority to gazette Block 403 in Stromlo, and undeveloped areas of Block 12, Section 1 Denman Prospect as Nature Reserve. 

The amendment allows for the creation of the nature reserve across the two blocks, and proposes to rezone Block 12, Section 1 Denman Prospect from Residential RZ1 to Non-Urban NUZ3 to further extend the reserve.

The area has significant environment values which are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 2014 and will be managed by the ACT Parks and Conservation Service as part of the Molonglo River Reserve.

The ACT Minister for City and Government Services, Tara Cheyne said new boundary fencing, gates, compliance signage and reserve entrances will be established to identify and secure the new nature reserve boundary.

'Reserve infrastructure, including tracks and trails will be designed to avoid or minimise impacts to protected conservation values while providing operational suitability to protect both neighbouring suburbs and the reserve itself,' she said.

'Bluetts Block is a beautiful area to explore, walk, hike or ride and enjoy the beautiful landscape. By formally designating the area as a nature reserve we’ll be able to protect and conserve our native and threatened animals, plants and their habitats.’