The proposed change means Natasha King, 5, is set to enjoy the area for years to come.

Natasha's grandfather, Wayne King, was one of the community leaders during the fight last year to preserve the public space, and said his granddaughter visited the grassy park-to-be about twice a week.

''There's a little bit of play equipment there, and she walks the dog,'' Mr King said.

''My children grew up in that park, and now my grandchildren play in it - and it's the same for a lot of people around here.

''It's a real win for the community.''

Environment and Sustainable Development Minister Simon Corbell said draft variation 326 to the Territory Plan would rezone the block, on the corner of Heagney and Deamer crescents, from a local centre zone to urban open space, paving the way for it to be named after one of Australia's pioneering women and philanthropists.

''This variation is an important step that, if approved, will give proper status to this popular area of open space, which could then be formally named Caroline Chisholm Park,'' Mr Corbell said.

The block had been earmarked for development and placed on the land release register by the Carnell government in 2000, but a proposal for subdivision in 2011 led to a 2000-strong petition that caused the Canberra Liberals and ACT government to commit to retaining the parkland in July last year.

Brindabella MLA Joy Burch said at the time it was appropriate for the park to be named after Chisholm, and Mr King said all members of the Chisholm Community Park Committee had agreed to that name last year.

Mr King, the committee chairman, said a senior manager from the Economic Development Directorate spoke to him last week and took photos of the park.

''A government department is putting forward a budget proposal for funding for the park to buy equipment and do it up,'' Mr King said.

The proposed rezoning is available for public comment here until February 17 next year.