The Greater Geelong Council will approach the Victorian Government about opening state school playgrounds and outdoor sporting facilities for community use outside of school hours.

As a result of a successful notice of motion from Councillor Eddy Kontelj during Tuesday night’s meeting the Council will start a conversation with the state in the hope of gaining improved access to recreational facilities for young people living close to schools.

Cr Kontelj said the Council provided a wide range of recreational facilities across the region including parks playgrounds sports courts and playing fields. But he said school facilities would provide the most convenient expanded option for some residents.

“Ready access to recreational space can be impacted by factors such as lack of transport cost and the availability of certain facilities at a local neighbourhood level ” Cr Kontelj said.

“State schools across our region provide high quality facilities for use by students; it would be great to see these facilities opened outside of school hours to provide play and sporting opportunities for families and young people who might otherwise be restricted. This is a smart use of public and community assets.

“This clever and creative idea was brought to me by members of the community who feel their children’s mental and physical health would benefit significantly.”

Mayor Stephanie Asher backed the proposal and said increased access to school facilities would complement the existing network of recreational spaces offered by the Council.

“We invest heavily in these types of community facilities because we know how important they are to the health and wellbeing of young people ” Mayor Asher said.

“It makes complete sense to increase the community’s ability to use school assets.”