Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Newmans Water Supply Reserve Melway Ref: 33 A3 - A4 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Tikalara Catchment: District Functions: Public utility, linear park, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Path network Dogs on lead
This Melbourne Water owned reserve comprising two properties either side of Heidelberg-Warrandyte Road contains the Porter Street Melbourne Water main drinking water supply pipe. Both parts are approximately 20 metres wide and are currently used as an informal pedestrian link along the pipe track. The Reserve links to Porter Street in the south and O’Briens Lane in the north. From O’Briens Lane it is possible to link into the Yarra Valley Parklands. Ultimately this provides a connection to Candlebark Park and the Main Yarra Trail.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Niland Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 H4 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Westerfolds Catchment: Local Functions: Pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees Path network
Niland Reserve is a small reserve (988 m 2) that provides pedestrian access through to Templestowe Park Primary School and is immediately adjacent to the School’s oval. The Reserve provides an attractive green space within the residential area and Mandella Reserve is located only 120 metres away, on the opposite side of the school oval. There are no plans to develop this reserve any further.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Noral Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 K9 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Green Gully Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation
Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees
Noral Reserve is a relatively large reserve (2325 m2), prominently located on the corner of Greenridge Avenue and Noral Court. The Reserve is situated in close proximity to Serpell’s Community Reserve (170 metres away) with The Grange Reserve (450 metres away). There is a bus stop directly adjacent. The Reserve is undeveloped but, other than some tree planting, signage and a park seat, no further development is recommended at this reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Oakland Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 H2 Suburb: Warrandyte Precinct: Currawong Catchment: Local Functions: Pedestrian link, drainage
Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Remnant vegetation (biosite) Path
Oakland Reserve is a relatively large reserve (0,5 Hectares) that also provides a pedestrian thoroughfare from Oakland Drive to Warrandyte High School and should be retained for this purpose. Local residents in the surrounding low density residential area also access the school oval through this Reserve for out of school hour’s recreation purposes. Continuing the existing path to the school boundary gate, in consultation with the school, will better serve the Reserve’s purpose, especially in wet weather. A natural drainage line, containing a Council drain, runs parallel with the existing path across the site. The north-west corner of the Reserve is also located on the periphery of the Naughton Avenue, Biosite 15, with some remnant vegetation along the boundary fence. There is scope for revegetation of parts of the Reserve to enhance the value of the Biosite consistent with Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Oban Reserve
Melway Ref: 49 D2 Suburb: Donvale Precinct: Mullum Catchment: Local Functions: Flora/fauna Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs on lead Mature trees Creek
This is a small drainage reserve (1082 m 2) at 282A Oban Road and contains the Glenvale Road natural drainage line which connects to the Ennismore Drain before enetering the Mullum Mullum Creek. The bed and bank of the drainage line are managed by Melbourne Water. There is a small part of the adjoining private property (540 m 2) located between the Reserve and Oban Road. Overall, the Reserve has an attractive creek bed as its main feature. While Oban Reserve forms part of Oban Road, Biosite 21 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012, the remnant vegetation (ground storey and tall eucalypts) is being threatened by the overriding presence of weeds. The function of the Reserve is to protect the creek from soil erosion. The Reserve is a low priority, but any future plans for should involve weed management and the reinstatement of indigenous vegetation.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Old Shire Hall Urban Plaza
Melway Ref: 47 E1 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Ruffey Catchment: Local Functions: Urban plaza Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Seating Garden beds Dogs on lead Interpretative signage Informal grassed area Public art
The Old Shire Hall (built in 1892) is located on the 818 m 2 reserve on the corner of Doncaster Road and Council Street. In addition to the Old Shire Hall, there is a carpark behind this historic building and a small urban plaza on the Doncaster Road frontage. The Old Shire Hall is leased by the Doncaster Templestowe Artists Society. The 243m² urban plaza in front of the Old Shire Hall was developed as part of the Doncaster Hill Strategy, October 2004 . The plaza’s features include the ‘Running / Walking (Moving Forward) ’ public art fence along the boundary of the adjoining school, heritage signs (including sound posts), paving, seating and feature lighting.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
One Tree Hill Reserve Melway ref: 34 J12 Suburb: Donvale Precinct: Mullum Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, flora/fauna Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs off lead Open grass areas Path network Public art
One Tree Hill Reserve (formerly Berrima Reserve) is two hectares in size, contains remnant vegetation and forms part of McIntyre Road, Biosite 19. The vegetation is considered very high priority in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012 and future management of the Reserve needs to reflect this. The Reserve links Berrima Road with One Tree Hill and provides pleasant parkland for the surrounding area. The Reserve has a non traditional play function with wooden sculptures hidden amongst the trees and bushland around the hilltop. The sculptures were installed in 1999 and while these are aging and in some instances have been broken, they remain sympathetic to the character of the Reserve and along with the views, provide a reason for people to visit the Reserve and explore the natural environment. This Reserve is a great asset, is well connected for a reserve in a low density residential area, and has reasonably unique elements of interest due to its views and ecological values. An upgrade of the Reserve commenced in 2013 as part of the Neighbourhood Park Program in consultation with local residents. The Reserve is well used and loved by locals, mainly for exercise, dog walking and relaxing. Some improvements to the path network, weed control, minor drainage works and some revegetation are still to be completed. The Reserve offers a high vantage point which is popular with local residents to watch sunsets. The theme of this reserve should continue as a bush parkland with non prescriptive play elements.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Orchid Reserve
Melway Ref: 35 D9 Suburb: Park Orchards Precinct: 100 Acres Catchment: Local Functions: Flora/fauna , drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs on lead
Orchid Reserve is located at the end of a court in close proximity to Domeney Reserve and 100 Acres Reserve. This 3893 m 2 reserve is L-shaped and difficult to distinguish on the ground due to unfenced boundaries and a level of landscape encroachment from adjacent properties. The northern arm of this reserve is currently more densely vegetated and difficult to navigate and effectively forms a dead end. A natural drainage line crosses the Reserve and also contains an underground Council drain. The key asset of this reserve is the native vegetation, as it forms part of the Rainbow Valley Road, Biosite 20 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. The Reserve has the potential to become a useful pedestrian link to the east, with the addition of land which is currently part of 61 South Valley Road. This will then form a public pedestrian link from local residences and Park Orchards Reserve and Domeney Reserve and 100 Acres Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Oxford Reserve
Melway Ref: 48 G5 Suburb: Nunawading Precinct: Boronia Catchment: District Functions: Informal recreation, linear park, drainage
Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Basketball Mature trees Path network Rain garden
Oxford Reserve is located in an isolated part of Manningham on the southern side of the Eastern Freeway. The 6350 m 2 reserve shares an unmarked boundary with the Eastern Freeway Open Space. This Freeway land contains a secondary shared path that connects to the Koonung Creek Linear Park to the west and Mullum Mullum Park to the east. The Reserve is well landscaped, has a linear rain garden feature, good path connections and diverse play opportunities. It provides valuable recreation opportunities for residents in this area, including a playspace installed in 2006 catering for 3+ year olds and a basketball ring.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Park Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 J12 Suburb: Bulleen Precinct: Bolin Bolin Catchment: District Functions: Sport
Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Soccer Formal sports field Dogs off lead Community centre/ hall Shared path network Principal pedestrian network Off street parking Public toilets
Park Reserve is located adjacent to the Koonung Creek Linear Park and Greythorn Bowling Club. As well as providing a soccer field, the Reserve acts as a buffer from the freeway for local residents. There is a soccer pitch, pavilion, carpark and some treed open space. A new pavilion was constructed in 2012. Sufficient play opportunities for local residents are located at nearby Willow Reserve and Kingsnorth Reserve and are not required at Park Reserve. A Management Plan was prepared for Park Reserve in conjunction with Wilsons Reserve in 1999. Refer also to Koonung Creek Linear Park Management Plan 2011 and the Eastern Region Soccer Strategy 2007.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Park Orchards Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 D10 Suburb: Park Orchards Precinct: 100 Acres Catchment: District Functions: Informal recreation, sport, community facility Recreation Facilities Vegetation Ot her Elements Play equipment (fenced) (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Indoor stadium Formal sports field Off street parking Tennis courts Pine trees Accessible pathways Community centre/ hall Mature trees BBQ /shelter Pre-school services
Park Orchards Reserve is 1.6 hectares and provides a range of community and sporting facilities, including a one court indoor stadium, community house (currently under Council review), tennis courts and a new playspace installed in 2010. The site for the playspace which caters for 2-6 year olds is physically constrained and will remain small. The Reserve is on Crown Land but managed by Manningham City Council as Committee of Management. The stadium is also located on Crown Land which forms part of Manningham’s open space network and there is a joint usage agreement between the Education Department and Council that enables both school and community usage. The Reserve is well developed and a central hub to the Park Orchards residential community in close proximity to the local Maternal and Child Health Centre, pre-school, primary school and local shopping centre. Given its high level of use, the Reserve needs to remain accessible to local residents by foot, bicycle or bus.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Park Orchards Reserve
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Parkview Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 J12 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Bolin Bolin Catchment: Local Functions: Urban plaza Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees
A very small reserve of only 320m² is located on the corner of Ayr Street and Parkview Place, at the south end of the Ayr / Outhwaite local shopping centre. Current development consists of a path, seat, signage and some trees. This Reserve has some value as an urban plaza due to its proximity to the shops and its prominent location and could become a small and attractive urban plaza. However its size, slope and southern aspect limit opportunities. The Reserve could provide some amenity value as an urban plaza integrated with the shopping centre streetscape and as planted visual contrast to the surrounding urban form.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Paterson Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 B5 Suburb: Lower Templestowe Precinct: Finns Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Mature trees Dogs on lead Accessible path
Paterson Reserve is a small (896m²) reserve which provides pedestrian access between Macedon Road and Glenair Court. There are a number of newer unit developments north of the Reserve which increases the importance of its green space. The play equipment, which caters for 1-7 year olds was upgraded in 2004 should remain small. The Reserve has been referred to in recent Council documentation as Glenair Reserve. However, in 1964 Council resolved that the Reserve would be named Paterson Reserve after the family who originally owned the land. The Reserve’s attractive landscape character should be maintained and enhanced with additional landscaping along some boundaries.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Penderel Reserve
Melway Ref: 24 J10 Suburb: Wonga Park Precinct: Wonga Park Catchment: Local Functions: Flora/fauna, pedestrian link, drainage Recre ation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Unstructured bush play Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs off lead Informal horse trail Informal grassed area Informal paths
Penderel Reserve is a large reserve of 2.85 hectares comprising a composite of land parcels linking Penderel Court, Bessa Court and Jumping Creek Road. A natural gully (also containing an underground Council drain) runs east through the Reserve from the Bessa Court court bowl and exits the Reserve at the Penderel Court court bowl, although the central 100 metres of the gully is through private property. The smaller western end (Bessa Court) is linked to the larger body of parkland by a narrow 3.5 metre wide corridor between private properties. The pedestrian connection between the two parts is difficult as it requires walking up or down a steep slope at the Bessa Court end. Horses informally use the Reserve as a connection between Homestead Road and Dudley Road. The Reserve’s primary value is for its ecological value and remnant vegetation, although it also has significant recreational value due to its size and road connections. The western end of the Reserve is within the Clifford Park/ Bend of Isles, Biosite 2 and is considered very high priority in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. However, the open space and bushland area at the Penderel Court end is suitable for unstructured bush play activities. A Concept Plan was prepared in 2001 that proposed path networks linking the three entrances, seating, tree planting and fencing at the entrances. Only the fencing and tree planting were subsequently undertaken. Existing paths are entirely informal and there are no other constructed facilities. Signage at the Jumping Creek Road entrance to improve community awareness and addressing encroachment issues from adjoining private properties are the main priorities for the Reserve. Consideration should also be given to Council acquisition of the northern part of the private properties at 14 and 20 Jumping Creek Road to better connect the two parts of the Reserve and to improve and protect the remnant vegetation.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Pettys Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 K6 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Tikalara Catchment: District Functions: Sport, informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Soccer fields Formal sports field Dogs off lead Proposed playspace Pine trees Off street parking Proposed sports pavilion Boundary fence Public toilets
At 3.9 hectares, and well located on a major road (Reynolds Road), and near a bus stop, Pettys Reserve is well suited for active sport. Prior to 2011, Pettys Reserve was used primarily as an equestrian facility, occasional circuses, and for informal recreation. With the relocation of the Pony Club to Buck Flats and consistent with the Eastern Region Soccer Strategy 2007 and Council’s Active for Life Recreation Strategy 2010, the Pettys Reserve Development Plan 2011 set out a two stage development of a new regional soccer facility. The project is a result of the identified need for additional soccer fields and high standard facilities to support a competitive pathway for soccer. Stage 1 of the Development Plan was completed in 2012 and comprised two grass soccer fields, demolition of the former Pony Clubrooms, a crushed rock carpark with access from Smiths Road, fencing and landscaping. Stage 2 of the Development Plan is to include a sealed carpark with access from Reynolds Road, a small sports pavilion, a small playspace and an upgrade of the soccer fields to synthetic turf.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Pigtail Reserve
Melway Ref: 35 H1 Suburb: Warrandyte Precinct: Warrandyte Catchment: Local Functions: Flora/fauna, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Horse trail Remnant vegetation Path network Dogs on lead
This very small reserve of 168m² is located on the corner of Ringwood-Warrandyte Road and Pigtail Road. The Reserve was purchased by Council from the adjoining land owner in 2011 to enable construction of a path and horse trail separated from the road verge. Its significance as open space is its path connection and the remnant vegetation it contains, which is a buffer to the Fourth Hill Biosite 11 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Pine Reserve
Melway Ref: 48 F2 Suburb: Donvale Precinct: Mullum Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilit ies Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Pine trees Unstructured bush play
Pine Reserve, also formerly known as Hagger Reserve, is a 2290 m 2 reserve located in an area recognised for its Pine tree landscape in the Manningham Planning Scheme (Significant Landscape Overlay Schedule 6). The Reserve contains both significant older Pine trees and more recently planted Pines. The Reserve also provides both a peaceful resting area for local residents and unstructured bush play opportunities for children. Although the surrounding area is generally a low density residential area, there are some medium density areas near Mitcham Road that could obtain some benefit from this open space.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Pinehill Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 G8 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: The Pines Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs off lead Basketball goal Mature Pine trees Path network Informal grassed area
Pinehill Reserve is an established reserve that is sufficiently large (2.2 hectares) to serve this residential area. The ridge top location provides views to the west and north. It also links well to the local neighbourhood, with access from six residential streets. There is a bus route running close by and the Reserve is in the catchment of two primary schools. Remnant vegetation has been identified at the eastern end of the Reserve as part of Buck Reserve/ Donvale Christian School, Biosite 18 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. Pinehill Reserve is located in close proximity to the sporting precinct at Mullum Mullum Reserve and the district playspace at Landscape Reserve. The playspace and basketball half court were implemented as a result of the Pinehill Reserve Concept Plan 1997 and upgraded in 2013. Play opportunities have broadened and now cater for 2-10 year olds. The scope of play at this reserve should remain small and complement those playspaces at nearby reserves.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Pineview Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 B8 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Green Gully Catchment: Local Functions: Pedestrian link, informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Pine trees Path network
This steeply sloping 4034 m 2 reserve site acts as a pedestrian link between Browning Drive and Whitehall Court. A concrete path winds down the slope from Whitehall Court around an old Pine tree windbreak. The slope limits the site’s recreational value but the Reserve has value, as a pedestrian link (further connects to Larnaca Reserve and nearby primary schools) and as a means to preserve the Pine windbreak, which is currently still in reasonable condition. The western end of the Reserve could benefit from additional landscaping. Signage could highlight the network of pedestrian links in this area.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Pinnacle Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 H8 Suburb: Bulleen Precinct: Bolin Bolin Catchment: Local Functions: Drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Garden beds Dogs on lead
This drainage and sewerage reserve contains a Council main drain and a Yarra Valley Water sewer and originally provided a connection between Manningham Road and Pinnacle Crescent. The Pinnacle Crescent half has since been sold to adjoining land owners and the remaining reserve is only 226 m². The Reserve appears to be occupied by the adjacent residential property.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Pleasant Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 H5 Suburb: Templestowe Lower Precinct: Birrarung Catchment: District Functions: Informal recreation, linear park, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other El ements Unstructured bush play Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Mature trees Drainage line
Pleasant Reserve is 5778 m² and relatively undeveloped. The Reserve contains a natural drainage line that also contains a Melbourne Water Drain and this needs to be considered in relation to any future development. The Sheahans Reserve Development Plan 2012 sets out the future development of the Reserve, including additional tree planting, a path and seating. There could be potential, in the long term, to connect the eastern end of Pleasant Reserve to Swanston Reserve along the natural drainage line. The Reserve is part of the informal linear connection of parklands from Pleasant Reserve to Birrarung Park via Sheahans Reserve, Morang Reserve, the Kimberley Way footpath and Kimberley Reserve. The enhancement of this linear park would greatly increase its usage by to local residents.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Porter Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 B4 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Green Gully Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Unstructured bush play Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees Retarding basin
This small reserve (1,113m²) was not represented in the 2004 Public Open Space Strategy. Primarily, this reserve functions as a retarding basin which occupies approximately 50% of the Reserve. The Reserve also contains some attractive trees and a seat which provide some amenity value. The Reserve has a very narrow (3.8 metre) street frontage and as such, passive surveillance is severely restricted. There is no scope for further development of this reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Porter Water Supply Reserve
Melway Ref: Maps 34-36 Suburb: Doncaster East to Warrandyte South Precinct: The Pines, Currawong, Warrandyte, 100 Acres Catchment: District Functions: Public utility, linear park
Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Remnant vegetation (Biosites) Dogs on lead
Water supply reserves throughout Manningham offer significant ecological value, recreation opportunities and pedestrian linkage potential, although they are owned and managed by Melbourne Water. The Porter Water Supply Reserve is 6.5 kilometres long, between Blackburn Road and Croydon Road where it continues further into the City of Maroondah. Part of the Porter Pipetrack is within the Grandview Road Biosite 12, Minter Court, Stintons Reserve Biosite 13 and Currawong Reserve Biosite 17 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. Porter Water Supply Reserve, in conjunction with Porter Street itself, potentially provides a direct link from Westerfolds Park in Templestowe, through Doncaster East, Warrandyte and the north end of Donvale to Warrandyte South and beyond. Currently the eastern parts of Water Supply Reserve (east of Currawong Bush Park) are not accessible to the public. Informal access, rather than pathways is generally provided in the western part of the Reserve. Parts of the Reserve are essentially incorporated into adjacent Council reserves such as Bernadette Reserve, Prowse Reserve, Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park (Larnoo Playspace and Currawong Bush Park), Husseys Reserve and Colman Park. This reserve has been long identified by Manningham as a significant opportunity, although the feasibility of providing a continuous trail needs to be carefully assessed due to physical constraints in some areas such as across the Mullum Mullum Creek, difficult road crossings, fencing that blocks access in some farming sections, and very steep topography. The Reserve crosses many main roads and at a number of these locations a safe road crossing point may not be possible.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Pound Reserve Melway Ref: 23 A12 Suburb: Warrandyte Precinct: Warrandyte Catchment: Regional Functions: Flora/fauna, informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs on lead Pound Reserve is a small (1421m²) reserve that was the site of Council’s animal pound until the 1960s. It is unreserved Crown Land and while Council is not the Committee of Management Council does undertake basic maintenance such as grass cutting, essentially as roadside maintenance. Part of Everard Drive is located within the Reserve. Cars informally park on the Reserve in the summer as an overflow carpark from the tunnel carpark on the northern side of Everard Drive and the Pound Bend carpark. The southern half of the Reserve is part of the Pound Bend, Biosite 10 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. There is a comparatively barren central area containing no vegetation, except for predominantly native grasses. This is being degraded by vehicle parking which compacts the soil and causes erosion. The northern half is mapped as buffer vegetation. It also supports Yellow Box with a few Black Wattles ( Acacia mearnsii) and Shiny Cassinia ( Cassinia longifolia). There is less diversity in the ground storey and natural regeneration is occurring. The mature Yellow Box attracts a range of bird life when they flower over summer, including the annual migration from Tasmania of the nationally EPBC listed and State endangered Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolour). Parties of Swift Parrots have stayed in the area feeding on the trees for days at a time. Consideration could be given to Council becoming Committee of Management in order to formalise management and undertake basic improvements, such as fencing to restrict vehicle access to sensitive areas, promotion of natural regeneration and interpretation signage on the history of the pound.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Princely Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 K4 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Tikalara Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead
Princely Reserve is a large reserve (4401 m 2) in a low density residential area. An electricity substation is located at the front of the Reserve. Given the Reserve’s location at the end of a small court, it has very little recreation value at present. The Reserve has a very poor appearance with virtually no vegetation. Canopy tree planting would greatly improve the local amenity and potentially the use of the open space.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Prowse Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 E4 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: The Pines Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, flora/fauna, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs on lead Informal paths
The main function of the 1.04 hectare Prowse Reserve is to conserve the indigenous vegetation identified through the Andersons Creek Road, Biosite 33. The vegetation is considered high priority in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012 and future management of the Reserve should reflect this status. The Reserve is a natural and attractive green space with densely planted native vegetation, in a residential area. Prowse Reserve is steep, with an unsealed path connecting Fernlea Crescent and Kelvan Grove to the Melbourne Water Supply Reserve, thus providing pedestrian access through to bus routes on Blackburn and Andersons Creek Roads, The Pines Reserve and The Pines Shopping Centre. Directional signage promoting the links from the Reserve and making the pathways more visible from the entrance is needed. Considering the scale of the Reserve, it has a narrow frontage to Fernlea Crescent (19 metres) and the attractively landscaped steps are essential in encouraging access and use.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Range View Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 G6 Suburb: Bulleen Precinct: Birrarung Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Gazebo Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Garden beds
This open space is essentially a large (700 m 2) rectangular traffic island in a court of a more recent residential subdivision. The land is road reserve, although its use and appearance are more like open space. It was developed as part of the residential subdivision and includes a small area of grass, some planting and a gazebo with four seats. The open space has an attractive appearance, with street trees planted around the border of the island. Given its orientation to surrounding houses and the lack of visibility from Grant Olson Avenue, the Reserve reads and functions as open space for the residents of Range View Terrace only.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Ranleigh Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 B8 Suburb: Templestowe Lower Precinct: Finns Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Cricket Garden beds Basketball Mature trees Picnic table
This is a relatively small (1357 m 2) but pleasant reserve, sloping downhill from Ranleigh Rise. Traditional play opportunities cater for 1-7 year olds and informal recreation opportunities include a picnic table, cricket pitch, basketball ring and drinking fountain. A natural drainage line containing an underground Council drain runs through the centre of the Reserve. Large garden beds, mature Eucalypts and diverse recreation facilities add significantly to the appeal of this small reserve. The Reserve is located in a court and consequently has limited accessibility for local residents. Some consideration could be given to expanding the size of the Reserve if opportunities arise.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Raymond Elliot Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 K10 Suburb: Park Orchards Precinct: 100 Acres Catchment: Local Functions: Flora/fauna, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs on lead
Raymond Elliot Reserve is small (768 m²) reserve with a primary drainage function, located at the end of Raymond Elliot Court. It is located on the perimeter of Rainbow Valley Road, Biosite 20 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012 with indigenous vegetation contained within this Reserve. The natural drainage line is a tributary of the Mullum Mullum Creek and also contains a Melbourne Water main drain. The Reserve has very little recreation value.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Renshaw Reserve
Melway Ref: 47 K3 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: Boronia Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees Fenced Garden beds
Renshaw Reserve is a small (1,366m²) reserve that serves a small local catchment. Bullen Reserve is located 300 metres away to the north and Geyde Reserve 250 metres away to the south. The Reserve is also 200 metes away from the Leeds Street local activity centre (Milk Bar). The playspace was upgraded in 2006, and caters for 2-7 year olds. Recreation opportunities at Renshaw Reserve need to complement those at Bullen Reserve. Additional canopy tree planting on the western side of the Reserve would improve the Reserve’s appearance.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Richard Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 K6 Suburb: Templestowe Lower Precinct: Birrarung Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Garden beds Accessible paths
Although Richard Reserve is small (1220 m 2), it is prominently located and well linked to the local residential catchment, attractively landscaped and has an accessible playspace that was upgraded in 2006. Play opportunities should continue to cater for 1-8 year olds as the Reserve is in close proximity to two pre-schools and a primary school. There is little provision for informal recreation opportunities (including basketball) in this locality and consideration should be given to including more opportunities in future upgrades. The Reserve would benefit from some additional canopy tree planting.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Rieschiecks Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 J10 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: Zerbes Catchment: Regional Functions: Informal recreation, sport, community facility, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Remnant vegetation Dogs off lead (dogs prohibited from athletics track) Athletics track Informal grassed area Public toilets Community centre Mature trees Off street parking Museum Pine trees Community events Scout hall Garden beds Historic cemetery Football/cricket oval Path network
Rieschiecks Reserve is a large regional reserve (12.6 hectares) that provides a range of community, recreation, heritage and sporting facilities, including Schramms Cottage Museum, scouts, regional athletics facility, football, cricket, playground, personal training, Heimat Centre and significantly sized open space. There is a Heritage Overlay on the entire Reserve. The remnant vegetation consists of ground storey in the vicinity of Schramms Cottage and a Pine tree windbreak contributes to the significant landscape character of the Reserve. The area formerly used as a hockey field is now a permanent carpark that services the regional athletics facility. The Rieschiecks Reserve Management Plan 2012 recommends the future direction of Heimat Centre, path networks linking the northern area to the southern area, shared path connecting Victoria Street and George Street works to improve the amenity and accessibility of carparks, upgrading the athletics facility and Schramms Cottage, relocation of Kevin Heinze Garden Centre to the Reserve and improving Muriel Green Drive. The area formerly known as Owens Reserve is now being incorporated as part of Rieschiecks Reserve. The main function of this area is to provide an important link for local residents to reach Victoria Street (Ruffey Lake Park) and the northern section of Rieschiecks Reserve from Owens Street. Play and recreation opportunities are comprehensively provided within a 400m radius of Rieschiecks Reserve, with Manningham’s premier play facility at Ruffey Lake Park and the attractive play space catering for all ages at Woodlea Reserve. The playspace installed in 2004 will remain a secondary function of Rieschiecks Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Rieschiecks Reserve
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Ringwood-Warrandyte Reserve
Melway Ref: 35 H10 Suburb: Park Orchards Precinct: Mullum Catchment: Local Functions: Flora/fauna, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Unstructured bush play Remnant vegetation (biosite) Dogs on lead Pine trees
Ringwood Warrandyte Reserve is a 4492 m 2 oddly shaped reserve containing both a natural drainage line and a steep hillside at the rear. It performs a drainage function, directly adjoining Andersons Creek at the eastern end of the Reserve (also including an underground Council drain), as well as supporting remnant vegetation at its western end (being a buffer to Andersons Creek/ Colman Park, Biosite 27 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012). The Reserve has very poor access from the surrounding street network, with a narrow (16 metre wide) frontage to a dead end service road as its only access. The service road is further separated from Ringwood-Warrandyte Road by Andersons Creek itself. The narrow (12 metre wide) eastern end of the Reserve is 130 metres in length, before the Reserve expands out to the western hillside. The Reserve requires improved access for maintenance and public access, and bushland management, and signage is required to identify and direct people to this public open space.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Riverview Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 H9 Suburb: Bulleen Precinct: Bolin Bolin Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead
This reasonably sized reserve (4,131m²) has limited street frontage but is well connected with three surrounding streets. The southern walkway connects via Eama Court to Harold Reserve, only 140 metres away. Play opportunities are limited catering for 2-6 year olds, but are well located within the Reserve and should complement the larger nearby Harold Reserve. The visual isolated nature of the Reserve will be an ongoing public surveillance issue. Continued visibility into the Reserve from Riverview Terrace is important. The existing path from Riverview Terrace does not currently extend to the playspace and the walkways to Walter Street and Ralph Street are not constructed. Improved accessibility via a completed path network and appropriate additional planting is warranted and will improve the value of this open space.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Roger Reserve
Melway Ref: 48 B2 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: Boronia Catchment: Local Functions: Drainage, informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees
Roger Reserve is a small (865m²) drainage and sewerage reserve located on a natural drainage line formerly connected to Koonung Creek and now contains both a Council main drain and a Yarra Valley Water sewer. The narrow (12 metre) reserve is located on the opposite side of Roger Street to the much larger Morna Reserve (that also contains a playspace). The Reserve does not connect through to Turnstone Street. As the Reserve is not a pedestrian link and larger open space is immediately nearby, the Reserve offers very little recreation value. There may be some limited potential for additional canopy tree planting.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Ronald Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 F6 Suburb: Bulleen Precinct: Birrarung Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Picnic table Mature trees
Ronald Reserve is a relatively level 1443 m 2 reserve located within an evolving medium density residential area, in close proximity to Bulleen Plaza Neighbourhood Activity Centre (250 metres away). Informal recreation opportunities have been added to play opportunities for small children (2-6 year olds) in a well landscaped and shaded setting. The other two reserves in close proximity also cater exclusively to the pre- school age group, but there is scope to expand informal recreation opportunities at Ronald Reserve to include older children. Given the anticipated increase in population around Bulleen Plaza, Ronald Reserve will become more significant for open space over time. Some consideration could be given to expanding the size of the Reserve if opportunities arise. Any future upgrade of the Reserve should consider expanding the informal recreation facilities (paths, seating, play, etc) to cater for future use. Consideration could also be given to additional landscaping to enhance the appearance of the Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Roseland Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 G11 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Ruffey Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, visual amenity, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees Retarding basin
Roseland Reserve is a very small (653 m 2) reserve located on a natural drainage tributary of Ruffey Creek and provides an important drainage function. Two Melbourne Water main drains go through the Reserve and the associated small retarding basin and bubble up pit are the dominant visual features of the Reserve. It also provides a link to George Street for Roseland Grove residents, although the Earl Street footpath linking these streets is only 80 metres away. A shaded seating area is provided. This Reserve is a low priority for any improvements.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Rowland Reserve
Melway Ref: 37 A6 Suburb: Wonga Park Precinct: Wonga Park Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead
Rowland Reserve is a small (1089 m 2) undeveloped reserve located at the end of Rowland Court on the eastern edge of the municipality. Informally, it provides access to the adjacent grounds of a Calvary Bible College. Due to limited pedestrian accessibility and the proximity of other larger and more viable reserves within walking distance in the City of Maroondah, this Reserve is a low priority site for upgrade. The Reserve is located within 25 metres of the land acquired by VicRoads for construction of the future Northern Arterial Road. The open space value of this land may change if and when this arterial road is constructed. The planting of some canopy trees would greatly enhance the appearance of this reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Ruffey Creek Linear Park Melway Ref: 33 C3-33 G8 Suburb: Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Doncaster Precinct: Finns, Westerfolds, Tikalara, Green Gully & Ruffey Catchment: Regional Functions: Flora/fauna, linear park, informal recreation, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Unstructured bush play Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Path network Creek frontage Bio-swale/wetland Principal pedestrian network
Ruffey Creek Linear Park runs along Ruffey Creek Valley in Templestowe from Ruffey Lake Park (King Street) to Finns Reserve, where the creek enters the Yarra River. The Park is almost entirely a bush experience landscaped with native vegetation alongside a recently constructed shared path. While there are not many facilities or points of interest (excepting the actual creek) in the Linear Park, there are fantastic destinations at each end that provide many and varied recreation opportunities including Wombat Bend Playspace and Main Yarra Trail at Finns Reserve, The Boulevard and Victoria Street playspaces at Ruffey Lake Park and barbeques, picnic shelters, open parkland, bushland and public toilets at both destinations. Ruffey Trail crosses four major roads in the 3.0 kilometre length between Finns Reserve and Ruffey Lake Park. Underpasses are provided at King Street and Williamsons Road. Council’s draft Bicycle Strategy 2013 contains a recommendation for a signalised crossing at Foote Street. The fourth crossing at Parker Street was upgraded some years ago to provide a central pedestrian refuge to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. The Ruffey Creek Linear Park Concept Plan 1995 was a vision to develop the linear park and in order to achieve the continuous link it involved an ongoing strategy of land purchase of privately owned properties. There are now only two incomplete sections of the Linear Park. The first is the link between Foote Street and Parker Street which involves the potential acquisition of a small part of a single residential property that straddles both sides of the creek. Pedestrians and cyclists currently use Parker and McLachlan Streets before rejoining the Trail on the other side of Foote Street. The second section set for completion is a shared path along Eumerella Avenue. Currently cyclists/ pedestrians use the road and this strategy supports the construction of a standard footpath in the future to link the Linear Park. A shared path was considered unnecessary as this road does not carry a high volume of road traffic and the steep topography would make it difficult. Cyclists can continue to use the road, while a footpath is created for pedestrians. The study area for the Concept Plan extended upstream only as far as Ruffey Lake Park, but the Doncaster Hill Strategy, October 2004 advocates the extension of a shared path through Ruffey Lake Park and on to Doncaster Hill.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Ruffey Creek Linear Park The Linear Park has many connections to residential streets and widens out in a number of locations to provide informal recreation opportunities. Notable locations are James Street, Montpellier Crescent, Glen Court and Kersey Place. Montpellier Crescent forms a wide section of parkland providing a change in landscape and informal recreation opportunities. A section of open space acquired in 2012 as part of a subdivision in Airdrie Court formally links to Ardgower Court and contains a bioswale which filters the water run-off from nearby dwellings. This small portion of land acquired from St Kevin’s Primary School, allows Council to improve environmental management. Within the Linear Park, Ruffey, Biosite 30 comprises 7.35 hectares remnant vegetation located in three sections; one at the confluence with the Yarra River at Finns Reserve, another upstream of Foote Street at St. Kevins Primary School and the third in Ruffey Lake Park. The vegetation is considered high priority in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. The Creek valley has always been considered important as a wildlife corridor and appropriate screen planting of indigenous vegetation, weed management and integration of these adjoining reserves should continue. Land ownership on the Linear Park also extends to public authorities other than Council. The section alongside Templestowe Bowls Club is Crown Land, for which Council is the Committee of Management; the portion of this land immediately adjoining the creek is managed as linear park. The parcels of land between Foote Street and Eumeralla Avenue are owned by Melbourne Water. A formal agreement with Melbourne Water should be developed to address the future management of this land.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Ruffey Creek Linear Park
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Ruffey Lake Park Melway Ref: 33 F10-J10 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Ruffey Catchment: Regional Functions: Informal recreation, drainage, flora/fauna, linear park
Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (shade Remnant vegetation Separate dogs off lead and structures) (Victoria St & The (Biosite) on lead areas. Dogs Boulevarde-regional) prohibited from fenced revegation areas Unstructured bush play Garden beds Lake, creek & wetlands BBQ / Picnic shelter Mature trees Path network Picnic table Informal grassed area Accessible paths Heritage Trail Heritage trees Public toilets Disc Golf Pine tree windbreaks Off street parking Community events Principal pedestrian network
Ruffey Lake Park is one of Manningham’s most popular reserve, and within its 68 hectares it accommodates a wide range of functions, including a drainage line, lake and retarding basin, two regional playspaces, four picnic and barbeque areas and areas of remnant vegetation and habitat. Ruffey, Biosite 30 is located within the Park and is considered high priority in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. The Pine tree windbreaks also contribute to the significant landscape character of the Park. The Park provides a venue for events such as Manningham Carols by Candlelight, Walk the Torque fun run, Iranian Fire Festival, Passion Play and Manningham Multicultural Festival, as well as a number of other events, such as cross country competitions and National Tree Day. The Park is also renowned throughout Melbourne as a popular dog walking destination. The Park is also increasingly popular as a venue for private community functions. The Ruffey Lake Park Management Plan 2005 directs the ongoing development of the Park. The Management Plan outlines landscape management and revegetation, with community involvement (largely through National Tree Day events), that is progressively transforming the Park landscape into an iconic regional park. There are a number of off and on-road cycling links to Ruffey Lake Park, including King Street, Victoria Street and Ruffey Creek. The extensive path network offers a variety of walking circuits of different lengths and grades. The two playspaces within the Park both have access to full amenities, including carparks, toilets, shade sails, barbeques and large picnic shelters. Play opportunities at Victoria Street have improved with the addition of a flying fox and climbing cube in 2010. In 2001 the Landscape Development Plan for The Boulevarde playspace directed the major upgrade of that area that is still continuing. The Management Plan
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
also recommended the development of a small playspace near the Church Street north picnic area. The Management Plan also recommended further investigation into the viability of developing a café/tea room near the Victoria Street playspace/picnic area. The Park incorporates Crown Land for which Manningham City Council is the Committee of Management, in the form of the road reserve (formerly Church Road). The creek and lake are maintained by Melbourne Water. The Park also forms part of the Ruffey Creek sub catchment area and is one of six drainage catchments of significance within Manningham. Refer also to Ruffey Lake Park Management Plan 2005 implementation of which is overseen by the Ruffey Lake Park Advisory Committee, and the Interpretive Strategy for Ruffey Lake Park 1997.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Sandra Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 E10 Suburb: Bulleen Precinct: Bolin Bolin Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Basketball Mature trees
Sandra Reserve is a 2666 m 2 reserve serving a relatively small residential catchment in the south-west corner of the municipality, west of Thompsons Road. Sandra Reserve should complement nearby Stanley Reserve as they both serve the same pocket of residential development. A playspace currently caters for 1-5 year olds and there is a basketball half court for older children. Play opportunities should continue to cater for a range of ages as Marcellin College is directly across the road and the Koonung Creek Linear Park is nearby. This area is well serviced with open space and recreation opportunities with two playgrounds and the Koonung Creek Linear Park also only 300 metres away. Consideration should be given to paths and landscaping when it is upgraded in the future.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Santa Rosa Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 G7 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: The Pines Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Garden beds Path network Mature trees
Santa Rosa Reserve is an attractive 4001 m 2 reserve that not only provides pedestrian access from Santa Rosa Boulevard through to the bus stop on Springvale Road, but is also a pleasant park for residents to relax. The Reserve pathway was upgraded to a shared path in 2011 providing local residents with improved access to the nearby Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park and Mullum Mullum Reserve and the shared path along Reynolds Road. The Reserve also serves a drainage function, with an underground Melbourne Water main drain and an overland flow path through the Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Sarah Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 J6 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Tikalara Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs off lead
Sarah Reserve is a large (0.63 hectare) open reserve that provides informal access from Sarah Crescent (and Serpells Road) through to Reynolds Road (bus stop). However there is a steep bank down to Reynolds Road from the Reserve and steps down the bank could be considered. The Reserve is located in a low residential density area where a playspace would not normally be provided. Pettys Reserve is located only 250 metres away on the opposite side of Reynolds Road. Extensive additional tree planting to improve the amenity of the Reserve, while still providing large open grass areas for informal recreation, should be a priority.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Savernake Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 D5 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: The Pines Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Garden beds Path network Bus stop
Savernake Reserve is a 2533 m 2 reserve on Blackburn Road. The Reserve was upgraded in 2005 with a sealed path to the bus stop (and Blackburn Road footpath), seating and landscaping. The bus shelter is located within the Reserve. A ramp and landscaping were constructed at the Saveranke Court end to deal with the steep bank into the Reserve. The Reserve’s main function is to provide a pedestrian link to the bus stops and an attractive ‘green space’. Given its proximity to The Pines Reserve playspace (450 metres away), it is recommended that it have minimal development and be retained to provide a green buffer and informal open space area within the residential area.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Schafter Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 F6 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: The Pines Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (large) Mature trees Dogs off lead Informal grassed area Path network Schafter Reserve is a large (0.67 hectare) and attractive piece of undulating open space providing access from Ridley Court to Schafter Drive, with a long road frontage to the latter. It also has a drainage function with a natural drainage line that also contains an underground Council drain. The southern end of the Reserve abuts a reasonable expanse of ‘green’ open space (including a basketball court) owned by the Uniting Church of Australia. The Reserve is included in the study area of The Pines Activity Centre Structure Plan 2011. A key action is to review the status of Schafter Reserve and linkages to the Reserve. The Church property and the property west of the playspace have been designated in the Structure Plan for future medium density residential development. The Structure Plan also notes that new pedestrian connections to the Reserve should be provided as part of any future development. A shared path that connects north to the Mullum Mullum Trail, and will connect in future to The Pines Shopping Centre, has been constructed on the east side of Andersons Creek Road only 120 metres from the Reserve. Schafter Reserve has some mature Eucalypts and a well located playspace (catering for 2-9 year olds) on the path network. Located 600 metres from The Pines Shopping Centre, any future planning of Schafter Reserve should reflect its status as an important Reserve. Provision of a larger playspace is recommended when the playspace is upgraded in the future. A third access point on Schafter Drive at the north eastern end of the reserve, with a pathway connecting the existing reserve path network will improve accessibility for residents. Additional planting of large Eucalypts to match the existing species will enhance the aesthetics of the Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Schramms Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 F11-F12 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Ruffey Catchment: District Functions: Informal recreation, sport, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (large) Garden beds Dogs off lead Football/cricket ovals Formal sports field Off street parking Lawn bowls Mature trees Public toilets Pavilions Path network/shared paths Picnic shelter Principal pedestrian network
Schramms Reserve is a large 7.94 hectare reserve that provides two sporting ovals, two bowling greens, two pavilions, carparking, public toilets, a path network, treed open space and a small play space catering for 1-10 year olds. Schramms Reserve is part of the Doncaster Hill precinct where increasing medium density housing is proposed. The Reserve is a major component of Doncaster Hill Precinct 1 Masterplan 2010 and located adjacent to the Municipal offices and it plays a supporting role to civic functions. The Masterplan recommends exercise/fitness equipment around the ovals, additional paths west of the main oval and bowling club, and the investigation of new pedestrian walkways into the Reserve as part of residential redevelopment along the eastern and western boundaries. JJ Tully Drive runs through the southern end of the Reserve and as well as providing access to recreation facilities, it also provides a vehicle thoroughfare between Turana Street and Doncaster Road. The Doncaster Hill Pedestrian and Cycling Plan and the draft Manningham Bicycle Strategy 2013 recommend construction of a shared path from Doncaster Road through Schramms Reserve to the Ruffey Trail in Ruffey Lake Park. Clubs at the Reserve include Doncaster Bowls Club, Fitzroy Doncaster Cricket Club and Doncaster Football Club. Large underground rain water tanks were recently installed to harvest storm water for irrigation of the main oval. The Doncaster Bowling Club is well used but its physical presentation with buildings constructed on the southern boundary and hedges completely surrounding the bowling greens, acts as a visual barrier between the urban area and open space. Located close to a pre-school, primary school and secondary school, play opportunities (1-10 year olds) are well utilised now and anticipated to continue to be so in the future. Passing secondary school students often stop to sit and chat and the addition of more group equipment suitable for all ages would improve provision of play for a wider range of ages. The Reserve is a popular thoroughfare for local residents utilising the recently upgraded pathway from Doncaster Road and more park seating would be well utilised especially at the Board Street end of the Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Schramms Reserve
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Serpells Community Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 A8 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Green Gully Catchment: District Functions: Informal recreation, sport, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Football/Cricket oval Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Tennis courts Mature trees Path network Shared community facility Pine trees Off street parking Principal pedestrian network
Serpells Community Reserve is a large 4.54 hectare Council Reserve without a direct frontage to any major roads. The Reserve is accessible from Burleigh Drive, Trevinden Close, Rebecca Close and Donhaven Court. The Reserve provides tennis, cricket and football facilities with a large oval, tennis courts and pavilion, in an attractive treed setting. There is an established path network including a shared path between Burleigh Drive, Trevinden Close and Donhaven Court. The Reserve has an open feel and where a stand of Pine trees mark the Reserve’s boundary from St Charles Borromeo Primary School. The Reserve is adjacent to two primary schools, the other school being Serpell Primary School. At the north-east corner of the Reserve is a community pavilion that is jointly managed by the two schools and Council and located on a separate parcel of land. These adjoining schools have exclusive usage of the Community Pavilion during school hours. Council uses the Community Pavilion for cricket and football clubs at other times. The schools also use the Council open space during school hours, and while this is a good example of the benefits of co-location of open space with community facilities, it has some implications on the use of the site as a local park, especially for those wishing to exercise their dog off-lead. Serpells Tennis Club is the tenant on the Council owned and maintained tennis facilities in the southern part of the Reserve. The 30 space carpark on the east side of the oval is part of the Reserve but is effectively exclusively used by Serpells Primary School during school hours. Path upgrades near the oval carpark and completing the oval circuit on the north side of the oval should be considered. There is scope for limited additional canopy tree planting is some parts of the Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Serpells Community Reserve
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Sharon Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 H12 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Ruffey Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Mature trees Retarding basin
Although Sharon Reserve is a large (5887 m 2) reserve, it contains a 1800 m 2 retarding basin with a drainage function which compromises the quality of open space and informal recreation opportunities for local residents. However, the Reserve does directly link to an adjacent retirement village with rear gated access to the Reserve. An additional path to Chapel Court would connect the park to residents who live as far as Victoria Street and Church Street, while also providing a pleasant circuit of the park. Additional seating would also assist in encouraging walking and make it easier for older residents. There is also a playspace catering for 1-5 year olds. However, many students pass Sharon Reserve from nearby Doncaster Secondary College and while the play ground space is restricted due to the retarding basin, the addition of a piece of play equipment suitable for all ages would improve the diversity of recreational opportunities at this Reserve. There is scope for some additional canopy tree planting at the southern (Sharon Street) end of the Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Sheahans Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 G5 Suburb: Bulleen Precinct: Birrarung Catchment: District Functions: Informal recreation, sport, linear park, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (large) Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Indoor stadium Mature trees Off street parking Outdoor basketball court Path network Tennis court Principal pedestrian network Rebound wall
Sheahans Reserve is a large 3.1 hectare reserve that features many recreation opportunities. The main facility is a large indoor basketball stadium (two full size and one ¾ size court) which is home to the Bulleen-Templestowe Basketball Club (Bulleen Boomers). Other recreation opportunities include a small playground catering for 2-10 year olds, a community tennis court, an outdoor basketball/netball court, rebound wall and a path network making the Reserve popular with local residents for walking. As well as extensive off street parking, the Reserve is serviced by a local bus route and provides important pedestrian links from Sheahans Road, Morang Avenue, Almerta Place and Pleasant Road. The Reserve includes a natural drainage line that connects through the adjacent Morang and Pleasant Reserves. The drainage line is also an overland flow path and contains a Melbourne Water main drain. Council’s Highball Infrastructure Plan 2013 recommends a long term plan (8+ years) to undertake a one or two court extension to the stadium to create a three or four court venue, with additional carparking. The Sheahans Reserve Development Plan 2012 sets out the future development of the Reserve, which in addition to the stadium and carparking expansion, includes a new playspace to cater for a broader age range, a picnic shelter and barbecue, path upgrades, and additional landscaping. Future play provision will incorporate a large playspace, as Council owned play opportunities in a one kilometre radius (with the exception of Swanston Reserve) are limited to the pre-school age group and are all located on small reserves. A wide range of ages needs to be provided for at this Reserve with continued informal sport, recreational and play opportunities. The Reserve is part of the informal linear connection of parks from Pleasant Reserve to Birrarung Park, via Sheahans Reserve, Morang Reserve, the Kimberley Way footpath and Kimberley Reserve. The enhancement of this linear park would greatly increase its accessibility for local residents.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Sheahans Reserve
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Sinclair Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 C6 Suburb: Templestowe Lower Precinct: Finns Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, flora/fauna Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Picnic table Remnant vegetation
Sinclair Reserve is a good size local park (2944m²), bounded on three sides by residential development and with the main part of the Reserve located high above Sinclair Avenue. Until recently the Reserve could only be accessed from the original farm track which runs parallel to the road and the rocky escarpment above the track blocks visibility into the Reserve and the picnic and play facilities are not visible from the road. Consultation for the upgrading of Sinclair Reserve in 2012 indicated that many local residents were not aware of its existence. A new set of elevated timber steps were recently constructed to promote awareness of, and access into, the Reserve. Sinclair Reserve is a quality open space located in close proximity to two primary schools and a secondary college. The notable landscape feature is the group of Yellow Box trees located towards the front of the Reserve and improvements to the Reserve as part of the 2012/13 upgrade include extending the Yellow Box tree theme throughout the Reserve, additional play equipment for 1-9 years, a stair entrance as alternative access, and new Reserve signage. These improvements should increase accessibility and appeal to a wider local population.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Smedley Reserve
Melway Ref: 49 D1 Suburb: Park Orchards Precinct: 100 Acres Catchment: Local Functions: Pedestrian link, flora/fauna Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Remnant vegetation (biosite) Dogs on lead Path network
The 2218 m 2 Smedley Reserve provides pedestrian access between Smedley Road and Curry Road in a low density residential area. The path is sealed and very steep. The Reserve also contains indigenous vegetation and is located within the Oban Road, Biosite 21 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. The future development of the Alder Court pedestrian link to join to the Mullum Mullum Trail will increase the importance of the Reserve as a connection from the residential areas to the east to the Mullum Mullum Trail. There are no plans for further development of this reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Snow Gum Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 E12 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: Zerbes Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees Garden beds
Snow Gum Reserve is a good sized corner reserve (2,902m²) which is accessible from Snow Gum Road, Sanders Road and Sabason Court. While the Reserve does not provide any links to local streets, it is an attractive and prominent local park with some trees and garden beds. Play is well provided in this vicinity at four nearby Reserves. Daniel Reserve is 360 metres away to the east and Cat Jump Reserve is 450 metres away to the north. Local residents may benefit from a park seat and a few additional canopy trees but other than that, this reserve is fully developed.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Somerville Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 B10 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Ruffey Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link (future) Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Pine trees
Somerville Reserve is a small 1286 m 2 reserve that adjoins the Eastern Golf Course. Existing play opportunities cater for 2-10 year olds and any play and recreation opportunities should complement nearby Burgundy Reserve. The Reserve could provide valuable pedestrian and cycling linkages when the Eastern Golf Course site is redeveloped in the future. Usage of the playspace would also increase. The Reserve should be developed and managed as integrated open space with the significant part of the Eastern Golf Court site that will become Council managed open space. The existing Pine trees along the southern boundary of the Reserve provide a physical barrier and the future of these trees should be determined having regard to the integration of this reserve with the new Golf Course open space.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Spring Valley Reserve
Melway Ref: 34 B3 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Green Gully Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (large) Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Cricket pitch Mature trees Path network (access to bus stop) Basketball goal Path lighting Picnic table Principal pedestrian network
Spring Valley is a large 0.7 hectare reserve with wide open space providing informal recreation opportunities, a playspace and a good path network, including a link from Mayo Close to Heidelberg-Warrandyte Road. There is a bus stop located directly outside the Reserve. A natural drainage line, that also contains a Council main drain, diagonally cuts across the Reserve. On its northern (Heidelberg-Warrandyte Road) boundary the Reserve abuts an 18 metre wide Council owned tree reserve that functions in this area as an extension to the open space. A VicRoads owned house blocks access along the tree reserve and largely separates the smaller open space at Mayo Court from the main body of open space. The playspace and informal games installed in 1995 cater for all ages and should complement the recreation opportunities at nearby Green Gully Linear Park when upgraded in the short-medium term.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
St. Clems Reserve
Melway Ref: 48 D3 – 48 C5 Suburb: Doncaster East Precinct: Boronia Catchment: District Functions: Informal recreation, linear park, community facility, pedestrian link, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs off lead Picnic table Mature trees Path network Pre-school services Garden beds Principal pedestrian network Unstructured bush play
St. Clems Reserve is a very attractive linear park which provides a habitat link north of Koonung Creek Linear Park. It extends along a natural drainage line from the corner of Tunstall Road and Maggs Road to Koonung Creek Linear Park and includes Tunstall Square Pre-School and Tunstall Square Maternal and Child Health Centre. This is a large reserve (4.3 hectares) although the child care functions occupy some 2,400m² and have been considered for further expansion. This reserve is accessible to a large portion of the population via strong connections to adjoining streets and provides many informal recreation opportunities to local residents. There is a shared path (St. Clems Trail) along the 900 metre length of the Reserve connecting to the Koonung Trail and providing access for pedestrians, joggers and cyclists. The draft Manningham Bicycle Strategy 2013 proposes a bicycle connection north from St. Clems Reserve via Tunstall Road to Tunstall Square Neighbourhood Activity Centre. The Reserve contains a playspace catering for 1-8 year olds (upgraded in 2007) near St. Clems Road. While there is sufficient provision for play in the residential area around the northern end of the Reserve, there is insufficient provision at the southern end. The nearby Argyle Reserve and Darvall playspace are restricted sites for play and informal recreation opportunities due to their limited size and poor accessibility. The provision of play opportunities for older children in the southern part of St. Clems Reserve should be investigated. There is scope for additional canopy tree planting and landscaping in various parts of the Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
St. Clems Reserve
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
St. Denys Reserve
Melway Ref: 24 G11 Suburb: Wonga Park Precinct: Wonga Park Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Remnant vegetation (biosite)
St. Denys Reserve is a small reserve (1,504m²) located in a low density residential area close to the Wonga Park shopping strip. The Reserve has a steep incline, poor accessibility and its provision of informal recreation opportunities caters for local residents only. The Reserve contains some indigenous vegetation and is in the buffer to Freyne Street, Biosite 7 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. There is an informal pedestrian link between St. Denys Crescent and Yarra Road, via the adjacent Church property. The existing playspace was installed in about 2001 and provides play opportunities for the 3-8 year age group. The provision of play at St. Denys Reserve does not fit Manningham’s policy of play provision in areas of low density residential housing. Nearby Wonga Park Reserve has two playspaces that cater well for the younger years and is considered to cater appropriately for the local residents. The playspace at St. Denys Reserve is considered surplus to the needs of the community and it is recommended it not be renewed when it reaches the end of its useful life.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Stanley Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 E9 Suburb: Bulleen Precinct: Bolin Bolin Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees
Stanley Reserve is a large (4398 m 2), well landscaped and attractive reserve. The Reserve no longer provides pedestrian access into the adjacent Marcellin College. The local residential area has a good distribution of open spaces and play opportunities with Sandra Reserve 250 metres away to the south and Morris Williams Reserve 600 metres away to the east. The Reserve needs to complement nearby Sandra Reserve with open space provision and facilities. The limited play opportunities should continue to cater for the pre-school years.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Stintons Water Supply Reserve Melway Ref: Maps 35 B5 to 49 B5 Suburb: Donvale, Park Orchards & Warrandyte Precinct: 100 Acres & Mullum Catchment: Local Functions: Public utility, linear park Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Shared path (in sections) Remnant vegetation (Biosites)
The land described as Stintons Water Supply Reserve starts from the Porter Street Water Supply Reserve at Harris Gully Road, Park Orchards, in the north and runs almost due south to the Mullum Mullum Creek in Donvale. The majority of the Melbourne Water owned reserve is not accessible and much of it is under licence agreement to orchardists and farmers. Many parts of Stintons Water Supply Reserve have high ecological value and it contains the following biosites; Minter Court/ Stintons Reserve, Biosite 30, Rainbow Valley Road, Biosite 20, McIntyre Road, Biosite 19, Oban Road, Biosite 21 and Hillcrest/Chaim Court, Biosite 22 in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2102. Council has an active interest in the section between Heads Road and the Mullum Mullum Creek and has entered into a Pathways Agreement with Melbourne Water to construct the Mullum Mullum Trail. The Reserve adjoins other Council reserves including the Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park (Heads Road to Mullum Mullum Creek and the proposed Alder Link would need to cross the Reserve), Stintons Reserve (where there is an informal pedestrian link between the reserves), and the new Goldschlager Reserve (where an informal pedestrian link crossed both reserves to gain access to a bus stop). This Reserve has been long identified by Council as a significant opportunity, although the feasibility of providing a continuous trail needs to be carefully assessed due to physical constraints in some areas, such as crossing Park Road and Stintons Road, fencing that blocks access in some farming sections, and very steep topography. The topography and road layout at both Park Road and Stintons Road would make a safe road crossing and continuous access extremely difficult to achieve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Stintons Reserve
Melway Ref: 35 B7- Suburb: Park Orchards Precinct: 100 Acres Catchment: District Functions: Sport, flora/fauna, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements BMX track Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs off lead Greyhound slippping track Open grass areas Leachate ponds Football/cricket oval Creek Shade structure Off street parking BBQ / Picnic table
This is a large reserve of 12.8 hectares in Park Orchards. Approximately 50% is dedicated to flora and fauna conservation supporting Minter Court/ Stintons Reserve, Biosite 30 and Rainbow Valley Road, Biosite 20, which is considered as very high priority in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. The centrally located remaining 50% supports active recreation facilities. These include an oval, State competition standard BMX facilities, a greyhound slipping track (constructed 2001) and picnic and barbeque facilities. The Reserve also adjoins the Stintons Water Supply Reserve to the west. In the 1970s and 1980s all but 20 metres of the 600 metres of Harris Gully (a tributary of Andersons Creek) within Stintons Reserve was piped and the gully filled with putrescible waste as a Council operated tip. All sporting facilities are constructed on top of the landfill and the leachate ponds at the northern end of the Reserve are part of the environmental management system. There is restricted public access to the area around the leachate ponds. The Reserve is guided by the Stintons Reserve Management Plan 1994 the majority of actions from which have been implemented. The Reserve lies in the path of the proposed Northern Arterial Road, which would impact significantly on the scale and function of this reserve, including vegetation, the greyhound track, the BMX track, as well as access to the Reserve. No timeframe is known for the proposed construction of this arterial road.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Stintons Reserve
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Studley Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 B11 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Ruffey Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, community facility, drainage, flora/fauna, pedestrian link (future)
Recreation Facilities Vegetat ion Other Elements Play equipment (small) Remnant vegetation (Biosite) Dogs on lead Pre-school services Garden beds Retarding basin Picnic table Mature trees Off street parking Informal grassed area
Studley Reserve is a 0.9 hectare reserve situated on the western boundary of the Eastern Golf Club. This site is heavily encumbered by other Council functions, with approximately 30% of the Reserve used as a retarding basin, and approximately 20% occupied by Doncaster Park Preschool and associated off-street carparking. The northern end of the Reserve is currently somewhat isolated, with poor passive surveillance from the surrounding area. The Reserve contains a small area (800 m2) of the Urban Miscellaneous Biosite described in Council’s Healthy Habitats Bushland Management Strategy 2012. This section of the Biosite is continuous with the larger bushland areas in the Eastern Golf Course. The Reserve contains a number of mature native trees and a recently upgraded playspace (2007) catering for 2-10 year olds. There is a gap in the provision of basketball/netball in this area and Studley Reserve would be worth consideration in the next upgrade. The redevelopment of the Eastern Golf Course is a significant opportunity to improve the amenity and connectivity of this Reserve for surrounding residents. Usage of the playspace would also increase. The Reserve should be developed and managed as integrated open space with that part of the Eastern Golf Course site that will become Council managed open space.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Stutt Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 K12 Suburb: Doncaster Precinct: Ruffey Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, urban plaza Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (small) Informal grassed area Dogs on lead
Stutt Reserve is a small (1040m²) reserve located on the corner of Stutt Avenue and Golf Links Court. Despite its small size, it is still large enough to provide informal recreation opportunities and ‘green space’ in this more densely populated area which has little other open space. Play opportunities catering for the pre-school years, a pathway and landscaping were completed in 2009 and have transformed the site into an attractive local park. The Reserve is adjacent to the busy Stutt Avenue local shopping centre and improvements were made in 2009 to better connect the Reserve to the shops and provide seating opportunities for visitors to the shops. Residential development of the Eastern Golf Course will likely see this reserve attracting higher levels of use.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Styles Reserve
Melway Ref: 24 H9 Suburb: Wonga Park Precinct: Wonga Park Catchment: Local Functions: Informal recreation, pedestrian link Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Unstructured bush play Informal grassed area Dogs on lead Mature trees Path network (with steps)
The 2,743m² reserve acts as a pleasant pedestrian link between Barooga Drive and Styles Court. A path at the top (Styles Court) end leads to ‘The 100 Steps’ down to Barooga Court. The pedestrian link can also be used to access Wonga Park Primary School and Dudley Reserve. Scattered indigenous plantings are located at the Styles Court end. The nearest playspace in this low density residential area is located 300 metres away in Dudley Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Swanston Reserve
Melway Ref: 32 H6 Suburb: Templestowe Lower Precinct: Birrarung Catchment: District Functions: Informal recreation, linear park, community facility, pedestrian link, drainage Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Play equipment (district) Garden beds Dogs off lead Basketball goal Mature trees Off street parking Skate park Informal grassed area Path network Pre-school services Community centre/ hall Picnic table
Swanston Reserve is a large 1.45 hectare reserve that contains multiple community facilities, including the Lower Templestowe Pre-school, Manningham Toy Library, an ex Scout Hall currently being used as a boxing gym, a playspace catering for 1-10 year olds, a basketball ring and a skate bowl. Review of the current use of the hall as a boxing gym is required to reflect ongoing security and maintenance issues and appropriate usage of the building. While the Reserve links well to three streets, it essentially lacks any street frontage, which reduces street surveillance and significant general exposure to local residents. This ‘hidden gem’ is well landscaped with traditional play and informal recreation opportunities catering for all ages. It is also only a five minute walk from the Pleasant Road bus route which is utilised by skaters visiting the park from outside of Manningham. The Reserve also has a drainage function, with a natural drainage line that also contains a Melbourne Water main drain and overland flow path. The skate facility is one of only two in Manningham, both of which offer very different facets of skating. Built in the 1970s and known colloquially as the Bulleen Bowl, this ageing half-pipe snake run has been given informal heritage status by skaters Victoria wide. It has now deteriorated to the point that an upgrade that maintains the integrity of the facility needs to be undertaken. Consultation with skaters in 2010 demonstrated its popularity and a recommendation for the facility from the Manningham Skate Workshop Report 2010 was to resurface and/or redesign the facility. There could be potential, in the long term, to connect the eastern end of Pleasant Reserve to Swanston Reserve along the natural drainage line. This would then become part of the informal linear connection of parklands from Pleasant Reserve to Birrarung Park via Sheahans Reserve, Morang Reserve, the Kimberley Way footpath and Kimberley Reserve. The enhancement of this linear park would greatly increase accessibility for local residents. Minor landscape improvement and the need for the large carpark next to the old Scout hall should be considered as part of the next upgrade of the Reserve.
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Swanston Reserve
Open Space Strategy 2012 Part 3 Reserve Analysis
Swilk Reserve
Melway Ref: 33 D4 Suburb: Templestowe Precinct: Westerfolds Catchment: District Functions: Sport, community facility, flora/fauna Recreation Facilities Vegetation Other Elements Pre school Formal sports field Dogs on lead Lawn bowls Steep site Off street parking Future playspace
Swilk Reserve is a 1.2 hectare area of Crown Land that adjoins Ruffey Creek Linear Park (and Ruffey Trail) to the west. Council is the appointed Committee of Management. Templestowe Bowls Club leases part of the larger western end of the Reserve from Council. The hillside above the Bowls Club on James Street contains some heavily weed infested indigenous vegetation that requires appropriate bushland management. The eastern end of the Reserve is occupied by a Council managed kindergarten. The carpark next to the kindergarten is open to be public. There is convenient access to a bus stop on Swilk Street in front of the Reserve. A section of Ruffey Trail runs in front of the Reserve parallel to Swilk Street, before crossing Swilk Street at the pedestrian refuge in front of the bowling club. The Templestowe Village Structure Plan 2012 earmarked part of the Reserve near the kindergarten carpark for a new small playspace to infill a gap in play provision in the local area.