Leeming Cricket Club Cuts Tree Clearing Area After 244 Signatures

The proposed tree clearing area at John Connell Reserve has been reduced by almost half, from 0.68 hectares to 0.38 hectares, following community opposition.
By Newsroom | Local Government, Sports Facilities |

Reduced Clearing Area Proposed Amidst Public Opposition

Leeming Spartan Cricket Club has scaled back its proposed land clearing at John Connell Reserve, reducing the target area from 0.68 hectares to 0.38 hectares. This adjustment follows considerable public dissent, including a petition bearing 244 signatures that advocated for the protection of local trees. The club states that no work will commence until all proposal aspects are finalised.

Background on the Reserve and Facilities

John Connell Reserve in Leeming is home to the Leeming Spartan Cricket Club, a body fielding approximately 7 senior and 12 junior sides. The club has been undertaking revitalisation efforts at the reserve, with new cricket nets, designed to meet updated Australian standards, already under construction to replace dilapidated older facilities. These new nets are seen as a significant upgrade for the next generation of cricketers.

Council's Evolving Stance and Policy Considerations

The City of Melville Council has historically supported the oval extension project, resolving in June 2022 to back the application for a clearing permit and collaborate with the clubs. However, a recent Notice of Motion has requested the Chief Executive Officer to inform the Leeming Spartan Cricket Club that no trees are to be removed or damaged within the designated clearing permit area. This directive is pending the Council's further consideration and resolution on the matter.

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The Council's decision-making process has been influenced by its policy on the Election Caretaker Period (CP-105), which aims to prevent the use of public resources in ways that might advantage election candidates. This policy appears to have delayed a public forum discussion on the matter. Mayor Mair has affirmed the Council's continued oversight of the project, including any future budget and key considerations for the proposed oval extension.

Community Resistance and Alternative Spaces

Initial plans approved by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation in July 2025 allowed for the clearing of 0.68 hectares east of existing playing fields. However, concerns have been raised by some councillors, such as Cr Clive Ross, who estimated over 100 mature trees could be affected, suggesting alternative spaces for the new cricket pitch exist that would preserve the trees.

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The Leeming Spartan Cricket Club, represented by president Peter Coombs, has articulated a need for expanded playing fields, citing that grounds from Yanchep to Bunbury are at full capacity with no new grounds planned. The club president has indicated a desire to "save as much as we can."

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why has the Leeming Spartan Cricket Club changed its plans for John Connell Reserve?
The club reduced the proposed land clearing from 0.68 hectares to 0.38 hectares after 244 people signed a petition asking to protect the trees.
Q: What is the City of Melville Council doing about the cricket pitch plans?
The Council is reviewing the proposal and has asked that no trees be removed or damaged in the designated area. A final decision is pending further consideration.
Q: When were the original plans approved?
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation had approved clearing 0.68 hectares in July 2025.
Q: What are the community's main concerns?
The community, supported by some councillors, is concerned about the removal of over 100 mature trees and believes alternative locations for the cricket pitch might exist.
Q: What does the cricket club say about the need for more space?
The Leeming Spartan Cricket Club president stated that grounds are full from Yanchep to Bunbury, with no new grounds planned, highlighting a need for expanded playing fields.