Outcome of Minister’s Review into Synthetic Turf released

In May this year the Department of Planning, Industry, and Environment commissioned a study into the use of synthetic alternatives to natural turf in public open spaces.

This study followed a statement by Minister Stokes in March that he recognised the need for a greater understanding of the social, environmental, and economic impacts, benefits and limitations of using synthetic turf as a replacement for natural grass across NSW.

The GCA made a submission to this study and two GCA representatives participated in a workshop as part of the study.

On 17 May 2021 Lane Cove Councillors voted unanimously as follows:-

"Council commit to complying with the outcomes NSW Government’s Review of Synthetic Turf Sports Fields". (sic)

The Minister released the report on the synthetic turf study yesterday – 22 October.

The Minister has issued a media statement which includes this statement:-

“Synthetic turf has become increasingly popular for use on sporting fields in recent years,” said Mr Stokes.

“But there are significant concerns within the community about its use and councils need consistent guidelines that address the pros and cons.

“I have asked the NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer to further investigate the impacts, and any alternatives that can be used in our parks and public spaces to support development of the state’s first set of guidelines.”

The outcome of the Minister’s review is that the Chief Scientist and Engineer will investigate the impacts of synthetic turf.

We expect our Councillors to honour their unanimous 17th May 2021 resolution and await the release of the State guidelines.