Latham's snipe forces Maitland council to scrap Chisholm sports field
Maitland council dropped the 4.5 hectare plan after a protected wading bird was discovered at the site.
Maitland City Council has dropped plans for a sportsground on 4.5 hectares at Billabong Parade, Chisholm. The decision followed the discovery of Latham's snipe, a wading bird protected under federal law.
The bird breeds in Japan and south-east Siberia, then spends its non-breeding season in eastern Australia. Researchers say numbers are falling in Japan and are thought to be decreasing in Australia.
The biggest threat is wetland loss, and housing and roads can wipe out the bird's habitat. The council says the bird's presence means the site cannot take the facilities clubs now expect.
The plan had promised AFL or cricket fields, double fields for soccer and rugby, and about 80 car parks. The land will now become public open space, with possible walking trails and play areas.
Chisholm's sporting hopes now rest on a second site on Suncroft Street, due to finish next year.
- 4.5 hectares
- Site area
- Billabong Parade, Chisholm
- Location
- About 80
- Planned car parks
Why it mattersChisholm's teams lose the planned site, and their hopes now rest on a second ground still being built.
AustraliaFor Maitland families, federal wildlife laws can decide where local sports grounds get built.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 5 h ago
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