Dickson residents are currently grappling with the implications of a proposed mega development that promises to bring hundreds of new residents and increased traffic to their community. The lodgement of a stage one development application has stirred mixed reactions among locals, who have long anticipated changes at the Dickson Tradies club site.
The inner north community has been aware of the potential redevelopment of the Dickson Tradies club for nearly a decade. However, the recent formal application has intensified discussions, particularly concerning the fate of the Dickson Squash Club, a local institution for over 55 years.
Impact on Local Institutions
Among the buildings set for demolition is the Dickson Squash Club, which has been a staple in the community since 1968. In October 2024, club members were informed that the courts would not be part of the redevelopment plan, initially giving them a year to vacate. This deadline has since been extended by another year.
Dick O’Rourke, a stalwart of the squash club and owner of a neighboring racquet pro shop, is actively petitioning local Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) to intervene. He has met with Minister for Homes, Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry, and has reached out to Liberal MLA Peter Cain, who has expressed interest in the issue.
“We’ve been here since 1968, so our history goes back a long way. The centre has a long history and it’s still a very vibrant community,” O’Rourke stated. “Tonight, there will be 50 people here for a competition. If they shut us down, where will all those people go?”
O’Rourke has explored relocating the club to other developments in Canberra but found the financial margins prohibitive. The only viable alternative, Next Gen gym in Lyneham, does not offer compatible court availability for the club’s competitions.
Community Concerns and Reactions
For other community groups, the scale of the proposed development remains a significant consideration. Gene McGlynn, acting president of the Dickson Residents Association, noted that while the application aligns with expectations, it is slightly larger than anticipated.
“We have had some conversations [with the Tradies] and the application is broadly what we expected. It’s a little bit bigger than we thought, but there’s nothing substantially different to what we expected,” McGlynn commented.
The association is particularly concerned about the reduction in car parking spaces during construction. Although some public parking will be available post-redevelopment, it is unlikely to match the current capacity for non-residents.
“It’s not a secret we are concerned about it, especially given there will be a lot more shops and more people,” McGlynn added.
Future Developments and Political Perspectives
The timing of the Tradies development coincides with an expected upgrade to Dickson Shops, scheduled to begin in 2026. This overlap has raised concerns about the cumulative impact on the area.
ACT Green leader Shane Rattenbury has voiced support for the development, emphasizing the potential for infill projects to enhance urban living. He highlighted the importance of ensuring the project delivers affordable housing and community benefits.
“This is exactly the kind of site for infill projects the Greens have been pushing for. More homes near shops, transport, and community life,” Rattenbury posted on Facebook. “We need to push hard to ensure this actually delivers truly affordable housing, green design, and real community benefit, rather than a low community value, profit-driven project.”
Looking Ahead
The Dickson mega development represents a significant shift for the area, promising to reshape the community landscape. As stakeholders continue to debate the merits and drawbacks, the project’s impact on local institutions and infrastructure remains a central concern.
Community members and local officials will need to collaborate closely to address these challenges and ensure that the development meets the needs of current and future residents. The outcome of these discussions will likely set a precedent for future urban development in Canberra.
