Optimising JG Ward Reserve

Council has a plan to fund a new future for the JG Ward Reserve

JG Ward Reserve (9,137m²) is located on the corner of Gore Street and State Highway 1, and is the last prominent green space visitors to and residents of Bluff see as they leave the Bluff Township. The space currently features the Joseph George Ward statue, a single piece of play equipment and storage building.

The east end of JG Ward Reserve, closest to Suir Street, changes in appearance and activation, with less visibility from the main road, effectively reducing its value to the community. Council sees there is potential to activate the corner section, taking advantage of its prominent location to encourage people to stay and play in Bluff. Adjacent to the land is 38 Suir Street (769m²), which is a parcel of land also owned by Council, and not currently activated.

What are we proposing?

Council, supported by the Bluff Community Board, are proposing to fund upgrades to the corner section of JG Ward Reserve, via funds generated by sale of the underutilised section. Council is considering designating 5,465m² of the space as Recreation Reserve through the Reserves Act 1977. The remaining balance, as well as the 38 Suir Street parcel, is proposed to be disposed of by sale.

The revenue generated from the disposal and sale would be reinvested within the remaining JG Ward Reserve. This would primarily increase activation, providing opportunity to hear what the community would like to see in this space This is a cost neutral proposal; therefore, the scale of activation opportunity for the reserve will depend on the value of revenue received from disposal and sale.

Let us know below what you think about this proposal, which may include your vision for how the space is activated in the future.

Feedback closes on 7 August 2026.