Grass to be greener in Kingston after ‘turf war’

Kingston’s grass will be greener once again after the ACT Assembly voted unanimously to restore Green Square with lawn, the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) ACT said today (23 October).

For several years, licensed venues and traders in Kingston have campaigned for the return of Green Square’s lawn from the current native grass and AHA ACT expressed delight about the result on behalf of its members.

AHA ACT General Manager Brad Watts said: “It’s fantastic to see the ‘turf war’ has been won and the much-loved grass at Green Square will be restored to its former glory.

“This will enable families to once again enjoy the popular precinct and restore the heritage of one of Canberra’s oldest shopping and entertainment precincts, hopefully in time for the summer.”

Mr Watts said it had been a difficult six to 12 months for local licensed venues, with some reporting a decline in turn-over following the Federal Parliament shutdown and recent election.

“The new grass at Kingston will sow the seeds for a brighter future for traders and licensees in the area, especially after around 900 signatures were received in favour of revamping the square,” Mr Watts said.

“It will also lure locals and tourists back to the community area to enjoy the local hospitality sector, especially when children can play on the grass.”

Mr Watts said the licensed hospitality and hotel sector was gearing up for a vibrant summer period in Canberra with the National Gallery of Australia’ summer exhibition as well as other major events expected to attract interstate tourists to the nation’s capital and boost the local economy.

Source: Australian Hotels Association ACT, 23 October 2013