Harper Sercombe
Whittlesea council has adopted a new master plan to guide decision-making around Whittlesea Park for the next decade.
The plan was adopted at a meeting on Tuesday June 29, which consisted of 13 recommendations.
The proposal was developed by the council in collaboration with the Whittlesea Showgrounds and Recreation Reserves Committee of Management.
Located on a 25-hectare reserve in Whittlesea, the park comprises a number of reserves, facilities and amenities.
The approved master plan outlines upgrades to the reserve’s entrances and improvements to the playground to meet the needs of children of all ages.
Council will build new picnic areas with barbecue facilities and furniture and create a three-metre-wide circuit path with pedestrian bridge crossings and fitness stations.
Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said council would deliver the master plan in stages, subject to future budgets and grant allocations.
“I’m really hopeful that we will be able to deliver some of the key elements of the master plan in the short term,” she said.
“This is a fantastic outcome,” administrator Peita Duncan said.
Under the plan, a tree strategy will be developed that provides for an audit of all existing trees, while parking arrangements along Laurel, Forest, Walnut and Beech streets will be formalised.
Dog owners will benefit from an upgrade to the existing off-leash dog park, the planting of additional trees and a quiet dog zone.
Skate park and playground users will enjoy the convenience of public toilets being built at the Walnut Street entrance, while council will investigate the option of future toilet facilities at Laurel Street.
“Council is committed to ensuring our parks meet the needs of our communities and support the active, outdoor lifestyles residents enjoy so much,” Ms Wilson said.
Details: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/whittleseapark
