Hume Reserve Master Plan

City of Greater Geelong

Final Report November 2009 Hume Reserve Master Plan City of Greater Geelong

Contents _____ 1. Executive Summary 3 2. Introduction 6 2.1 Study Area 6 2.2 Project Purpose 8 2.3 Planning Process 8 2.4 Project Management Framework 9 2.5 Acknowledgements 9 3. Site Context 9 3.1 Demographic Profile and Projections 9 3.1.1 Population 10 3.1.1.1 Bell Park Profile10 3.1.2 Implications for the Master Plan 13 3.2 Existing Facilities and Description 13 3.3 Local Area Planning Context 16 4. Consultation Summary 16 5. Issues & Opportunities 17 6. Core Objectives and Vision for Hume Reserve 20 6.1 Hume Reserve Master Plan Core Objectives 20 6.2 Hume Reserve Master Plan Vision 20 7. Draft Report Feedback 20 8. Master Plan 21 9. Additional Recommendations 27 9.1 Recycled Water 27 9.2 Land Ownership and Control 28 9.3 Signage and Communication 29 9.4 North Geelong Secondary College 29 9.5 Responding to New Requests 29 10. Implementation 30 10.1 Summary of Indicative Costs and Priorities30 10.2 Implementation 30 10.3 Indicative Cost Details 30 10.4 Exclusions and Assumptions 33 10.5 Operational Costs 33 11. Conclusions 34 Appendix 1: Community Survey 35 Appendix 2: Initial Consultation Results 37 Staff and Stakeholders 37 11.1 Community Survey Results 39 Appendix 3: Issues and Opportunities Presentation 43 Appendix 4: Initial Issues and Opportunities Plan 51

• Executive Insight Leisure Planning has led a team of specialist planning consultants to develop Summary a Master Plan for Hume Reserve. The aim of the Master Plan was to develop a plan that can be used to guide the future development of the reserve having regard to user and community aspirations whilst enhancing the appearance, appeal and functionality of the park. Key objectives of the study included ensuring an appropriate balance between sporting and informal infrastructure needs, improving opportunities for broad community use and to address known traffic management issues (i.e. car parking). The planning process involved a review of background material and the establishment of formal reference groups to guide the planning process. These included:

Hume Reserve consists of two primary parcels of land totalling approximately7.4 hectares. Each parcel consists of two soccer pitches, pitch 1 and 2 are located on the ‘main’ parcel of land off Hume Reserve Court (which is off Thompsons Road). The second parcel of land, further north, consists of pitch 3 and pitch 4. Pitch 3 has been disused for the past two-three years due to its poor condition as a result of the prolonged drought. Pitch 4 has never actually been used for competition soccer, rather its primary function has been as a retarding basin and informal kick-about space. Council’s Engineering Services have confirmed that ‘Pitch 4’ is required for flood management and intend to improve its capacity as a retarding basin. The research and consultation undertaken (including community surveys) confirmed a number of consistent issues that needed to be addressed. These included: a) Improve landscaping and vegetation throughout the park. b) Install and upgrade robust park furniture. c) Improve site access and circulation (particularly pedestrian). d) Acknowledge requirements for Pitch 4 to be used as a retarding basin – plan infrastructure accordingly. e) Consider opportunities to improve the appeal of the reserve for informal recreation. f) Consider infrastructure that will promote increased community use of the reserve (using the area currently known as ‘Pitch 4’). g) Define and upgrade entrances to the reserve.

h) Consider options to improve linear connections, including safety, vegetation and discourage motor bike access. i) Consider opportunities to improve the relationship between the two distinct parcels of land. j) Explore options for additional car parking (e.g. formalise the existing gravel car park). k) Consider options for water harvesting and reuse. l) Consider pavilion infrastructure development needs and opportunities, having regard to Council’s likely budget capacity. m) Hume Reserve is considered a local level soccer venue by CoGG (not regional). Infrastructure should be appropriate to this classification; a synthetic soccer surface is not supported.

Having regard to the issues and opportunities, the following five core objectives for the Master Plan have been identified and confirmed via the consultation and research undertaken to date. The core objectives are: a) Support the ongoing function of the reserve as an important local soccer venue. b) Increase opportunities for informal community use. c) Support community use of the Bocce facilities, recognising their importance in facilitating social capital. d) Enhance the appearance and appeal of the reserve. e) Develop a plan that guides priorities for the staged development and improvement of the reserve. The core objectives have been considered in identifying the following vision for Hume Reserve. Hume Reserve will play an important role in servicing local community needs, contributing to a strong sense of community connectedness, social capital and general well being. Hume Reserve will be reinforced as an important local level soccer facility in the northern suburbs. Facilities and infrastructure will be developed and maintained in order to support active sporting use (i.e. soccer), informal recreation and general community use. Section 8 outlines a number of ‘other’ recommendations for the reserve which are not represented on the Master Plan illustration, these relate to: Recycled water, Land ownership and control, Signage and communication, and Responding to new requests. Section 9 outlines the recommended implementation schedule and indicative capital costs for the works identified in the Master Plan. The total cost of all works is estimated at $3,286,700, inclusive of significant Engineering Infrastructure works associated with the retarding basin and water reuse. ‘Mandatory’ items relate to requirements under legislation or regulation, ‘critical’ items relate to risk, safety or water sustainability. A breakdown of the overall priorities is as follows:

Mandatory = Nil Critical = $24,000 High = $320,000 Medium = $2,186,620 Low = $756,080 Total = $3,286,700 Implementation of the Master Plan will improve the overall amenity and functionality of the reserve, including enhanced traffic management, safety and pedestrian circulation. The current and future needs of the sporting clubs have been considered whilst allowing for improved facilities, amenities and infrastructure for informal community use. Progressive implementation of the Master Plan will help achieve the overall vision for the site, including reinforcing its role as an important local level soccer facility and valued community open space.

• Introduction The City of Greater Geelong (CoGG) commissioned the development of a Master Plan for Hume Reserve which can be used to guide its future use and development. The following extract from the original project brief outlines the background and reasons for the project. Hume Reserve is an active sports reserve located off Thompson Road, North Geelong. The reserve is utilized by two Soccer clubs and informally by a Bocce group. The reserve is the home ground for the Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club and the Corio Northern Suburbs Soccer Club Inc. In addition to sporting clubs, the reserve is used extensively for passive recreation and casual use by local schools. There are two clubroom facilities, one with adjoining public amenities. The reserve is a highly valued open space area and is well utilized by the broader community. Council is always seeking opportunities to enhance formal sports reserves such as Hume Reserve. This will be a key objective of the Hume Reserve Master Plan. Council has received several requests over the last few years from tenant clubs at the reserve to undertake a host of developments ranging from sports lighting, car park extensions and pavilion extensions. The development of this plan seeks to balance these requests with the need to maintain and enhance the reserve as an important public open space resource for the broader Northern Geelong community. A large amount of work should be concentrated on the flow of the reserve and the access and egress issues. Following a competitive tender process, the City appointed a consortium of specialist consultants led by Insight Leisure Planning (in partnership with Fitzgerald Frisby Landscape Architects and Mantric Architects) to develop a Master Plan for the site. 1. STUDY AREA Hume Reserve is bordered by Residential Housing, Industrial Estate, and North Geelong Secondary College. The total area of the reserve is approximately 74,384m2 (7.4 hectares). An aerial photograph of Hume Reserve and its surrounds is shown on the following page.

Study Area: Hume Reserve, showing existing soccer pitches (#3) and surrounding areas (residential, industrial and North Geelong Secondary College – bottom of image).

Bocce & Public Toilets Hume Reserve Master Plan PAGE City of Greater Geelong 8

2. PROJECT PURPOSE The original Project Brief outlined the key aim and objectives for the Master Plan, these are summarised below: Aim: The aim of this project is to prepare a Master Plan for the future development/improvement of Hume Reserve. The plan will need to ensure the long-term development aspirations of the tenant clubs, schools and local residents are taken into consideration and the character of the reserve is enhanced. Key Objectives include: a) Ensure an appropriate balance between sporting and informal use infrastructure needs. b) Increase opportunities for community use. c) Enhance the amenity, appearance and functioning of the reserve. d) Address known issues including, traffic management, circulation (including pedestrians), access, safety, relationship to surrounding areas and connections to the reserve. e) To consult with those who have an interest in the park, so that the community needs and views can be determined and accommodated where possible. f) To develop a plan that is user friendly, illustrative and incorporates specific plans, graphics and written guidelines for the development of the park that are realistic and within resource constraints.

3. PLANNING PROCESS The planning process employed for this project has included the following key phases: Phase 1 Situation Analysis – incorporating a review of background information, site familiarisation, demographic analysis and identification of key stakeholders. Phase 2 Initial Consultation – including meetings or interviews with key stakeholders, sporting clubs, Council, and the community via an on-line survey, resident survey and public submissions. Phase 3 Issues and Opportunities Summary – a Power Point presentation including initial findings and preliminary directions was presented to the PCG, PWG and PRG (refer to 2.4 below). Phase 4 Draft Report and Master Plan – feedback on the Issues and Opportunities Summary was considered prior to the development of the Draft Master Plan which has been presented to the PCG, PWG and PRG, and placed on public exhibition for a four-week period. Phase 5 Final Report and Master Plan – the Draft Report and Master Plan have been updated following consideration of feedback as a result of the Public Exhibition period and a Final Report and Master Plan developed.

4. PROJECT MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK The development of the Master Plan has been overseen by three key reference groups which met at various stages throughout the project, these were:

5. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Insight Leisure Planning would like to acknowledge the input and direction provided throughout this project by a number of key stakeholders and Council staff, including: Kristyn Aquilina (Project Manager) and Stephen Parker (Coordinator Recreation and Open Space). Vince Leone – Bocce. Tony Lombardo – Bocce. Nedim Saiihovic – Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club. Zoltan Luczo – Corio Soccer Club. Mario Gregorio – Corio Soccer Club. We would also like to acknowledge the advice and expertise provided by the other members of our project team, specifically: Fitzgerald Frisby Landscape Architects – Tim Fitzgerald and Kendall Monk. Mantric Architecture – David Newstead.

• Site Context The following section provides an overview of the site context including population characteristics of the area, existing site conditions/features and local area planning context. 1. DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE AND PROJECTIONS Hume Reserve is located within the suburb of Bell Park. It is acknowledged that the park may attract users from a broader area, however it is anticipated that the majority of users will originate from the immediately surrounding suburb (i.e. Bell Park).

Hence, the following section provides an overview of key statistics for this area that may be relevant for consideration in developing the Master Plan. Source: The following extracts have been taken from www.id.com.au/profile/Default.aspx? id=268 on 29.5.09. 1. Population The population of the City has grown from 173,000 in 1991 to nearly 194,000 in 2006, with much of this growth between 1996 and 2006. Recent growth has been centred in the fringe urban areas of Grovedale, Highton, St Albans Park, Wandana Heights and Waurn Ponds and the outlying areas of Lara, Leopold and Ocean Grove. Bell Park has also experienced population growth from 2001 to 2006, increasing from 4,245 to 4,606 respectively, an increase of 361 people. It is anticipated that the population of the area will continue to grow associated with the emergence of new housing supply and increasing residential densities. The population of the broader catchment, potentially as far north as Lara, is also expected to continue to experience strong population growth.

1. Bell Park Profile Bell Park is an established residential area, with some industrial areas in the east. Bell Park is bounded by Cowies Creek in the north, Thompson Road in the east, the disused Fyansford railway line and Ballarat Road in the south and Anakie Road in the west. Settlement of the area dates from the mid 1800s. Growth was minimal until the post- war years. Significant development occurred from the 1950s. The population declined slightly during the 1990s, and then increased slightly between 2001 and 2006, a result of new dwellings being added to the area. Age Profile:

The major differences between the age structure of Bell Park and the City of Greater Geelong were: a) A larger percentage of 70 to 84 year olds (13.3% compared to 9.6%); b) A larger percentage of 25 to 34 year olds (14.0% compared to 12.3%); c) A smaller percentage of 35 to 49 year olds (18.9% compared to 21.1%), and;

d) A smaller percentage of 5 to 11 year olds (7.6% compared to 9.2%).

The largest changes in age structure in this area between 2001 and 2006 were in the age groups: 70 to 84 (+149 persons), and 25 to 34 (+74 persons).

Country of Birth:

The major differences between the countries of birth of the population in Bell Park and the City of Greater Geelong were: a) A larger percentage of people born in Croatia (9.8% compared to 0.8%); b) A larger percentage of people born in Former Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (3.1% compared to 0.6%); c) A larger percentage of people born in Italy (3.3% compared to 1.0%), and d) A smaller percentage of people born in United Kingdom (1.9% compared to 5.1%).

Individual and Household Income:

Analysis of individual income levels in Bell Park in 2006 compared to the City of Greater Geelong shows that there was a smaller proportion of persons earning a high income (those earning $1,000 per week or more) but a larger proportion of low income persons (those earning less than $400 per week). Overall, 8.5% of the population earned a high income, and 52.9% earned a low income, compared with 14.6% and 45.7% respectively for the City of Greater Geelong.

Analysis of household income levels in Bell Park in 2006 compared to the City of Greater Geelong shows that there was a smaller proportion of high income households (those earning $1,700 per week or more) but a larger proportion of low income households (those earning less than $500 per week). Overall, 9.9% of the households earned a high income, and 30.1% were low income households, compared with 16.7% and 23.0% respectively for the City of Greater Geelong.

2. Implications for the Master Plan a) Modest population growth is set to continue in Bell Park, along with growth in surrounding suburbs, particularly to the north. This is likely to increase pressure for access to the limited available public open space in the area, hence the role of Hume Reserve in catering for formal sport (i.e. soccer) and informal recreation will become increasingly important. The Master Plan will need to consider opportunities to improve facilities, infrastructure and the appeal of the reserve to cater for the anticipated increasing levels of demand. b) Bell Park is characterised by an older, established population, however there is also a higher proportion of residents aged 25-34 years compared to the City as a whole. The emerging younger age profile possibly reflects recent new housing establishments which may be attractive to young couples. Although the current proportion of people aged 5-11 years is lower than the City average, this may change over time associated with the introduction of young couples/families. Hence it will be important for the Master Plan to cater for a range of activities that are attractive to older and younger populations, including childrens play and informal recreation. (The older population profile often play an important role in caring for grand-children and therefore require access to appropriate facilities). c) The population of Bell Park is characterised by a high proportion of residents

born overseas, particularly Croatia, Yugoslavia and Italy. The reserve is already extremely popular for Bocce and soccer and it is anticipated that this will continue. The Master Plan will therefore need to enhance facilities and infrastructure that cater for these activities where possible. d) There is high proportion of low income earners/households in Bell Park. The Master Plan will therefore need to provide opportunities for no-cost informal recreation opportunities.

2. EXISTING FACILITIES AND DESCRIPTION Hume Reserve consists of two primary parcels of land totalling approximately7.4 hectares. Each parcel consists of two soccer pitches, pitch 1 and 2 are located on the ‘main’ parcel of land off Hume Reserve Court (which is off Thompsons Road). The second parcel of land, further north, consists of pitch 3 and pitch 4. Pitch 3 has been disused for the past two-three years due to its poor condition as a result of the prolonged drought. Pitch 4 has never actually been used for competition soccer, rather its primary function has been as a retarding basin and informal kick-about space. Council’s Engineering Services have confirmed that ‘Pitch 4’ is required for flood management and intend to improve its capacity as a retarding basin. Pitch 1 and 2 are serviced by a building containing public toilets and a separate building containing change rooms for soccer. The change room facility is old and requires significant improvement if it is to meet the contemporary needs of the two soccer clubs. The area adjacent to Pitch 1 and 2 also includes a formalised carpark, access road and gravel (overflow) car park. An existing Bocce court is located adjacent to the public toilets. A separate building with frontage to Alicia Street is occupied by the Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club which houses their social and community facility. This is considered an important facility to the local ethnic communities and its role is broader than supporting the local soccer club. The land and facility are owned by the Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club however the City of Greater Geelong is Trustee for the site. Access to the reserve is somewhat constricted and is characterised by elongated linear connections through to Furner Street, Barton Street and access through to the Secondary College. The reserve has very little street frontage and poor visual access. The vegetation character of the reserve is mixed, including a range of native species and exotic fruit trees. Much of the vegetation has suffered from the prolonged drought, there are no specimens of any great significance in terms of age, structure or environmental value. However the existing vegetation does contribute to the overall amenity and appeal of the reserve. The Site Analysis Plan on the following page highlights the core facilities and results from the initial site assessment.

INSERT INITIAL SITE ASSESSMENT PLAN page 15.

3. LOCAL AREA PLANNING CONTEXT Hume Reserve is a Council owned reserve zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ - green) under the Geelong Planning Scheme. There are no overlays evident for the site. The reserve is surrounded by a combination of Residential (pink), Industrial (brown) and Business zoned land (purple). The North Geelong Secondary College is located immediately south of Hume Reserve (i.e. bottom of image) in residential zoned land.

Study Area: Planning scheme image of the study area, showing Hume Reserve (green), zoned as PPRZ. The Master Plan will consider development and park improvement options that are consistent with the current public park and recreation zoning and have regard to placement of infrastructure respective to adjacent residential, commercial and industrial properties.

• Consultation The project has involved extensive consultation with stakeholders, Council staff and Summary the community. Appendix 2 provides a summary of key consultation results. The main consultation tasks have included: a) Community on-line survey. b) Resident survey (approximately 558 distributed; only 21 returned, i.e. 4%). c) Public submissions. d) Submissions from existing users. e) Establishment of the Project Control Group, Project Working Group and Project Reference Group (refer to Section 2.4). These groups have met on a minimum of three occasions each in the lead up to this report. f) Follow-up site visits, telephone interviews or meetings as required. g) Public exhibition of the Draft Report/Plan and facilitation of a community information session on site. The consultation results have been used to inform the identification of critical issues and major themes for consideration in the Master Plan. These are presented in the following section.

• Issues & The following section provides an overview of the main issues and opportunities that Opportunities were identified as a result of the background research and consultation undertaken to date. Appendix 3 includes a copy of the Issues and Opportunities Presentation that was made to the Project Control Group, Working Group and Reference Group. The presentation provides additional information in relation to the issues summarised below. The key issues identified for Hume Reserve that are to be addressed as part of the Master Plan include: General Open Space: a) Improve landscaping and vegetation throughout the park. b) Install and upgrade robust park furniture. c) Improve site access and circulation (particularly pedestrian). d) Acknowledge requirements for Pitch 4 to be used as a retarding basin – plan infrastructure accordingly. e) Consider opportunities to improve the appeal of the reserve for informal recreation. f) Consider infrastructure that will promote increased community use of the reserve (using the area currently known as ‘Pitch 4’). g) Define and upgrade entrances to the reserve. h) Consider options to improve linear connections, including safety, vegetation and discourage motor bike access. i) Consider opportunities to improve the relationship between the two distinct parcels of land. j) Explore options for a path connection through to Separation Street (possibly within the school or using existing street network). k) Explore options for additional car parking (e.g. formalise the existing gravel car park). l) Consider options for water harvesting and reuse.

Bocce Facilities: a) Consider infrastructure requests to improve the Bocce facilities. Bocce requests include: b) Counter sink bolts and improve drainage, c) Install fence around perimeter, d) Establish a central walkway and viewing area – define two pitches. e) Provide roof cover over pitches f) Provide sheltered viewing area. g) Ideally like access to a social/meeting room (on site). h) Access to a small store room. i) Potential to light one pitch.

Playing Fields: a) Hume reserve is considered a local level soccer venue by CoGG (not regional). Infrastructure should be appropriate to this classification; a synthetic soccer surface is not supported. b) Improve lighting to match standard on Pitch 1 or 2 (by Club). c) Consider fencing the playing fields to prevent motor bikes ruining turf surfaces (i.e. Pitch 3). d) Improve fencing around Pitch 1 and 2 – i.e. install mesh, to prevent balls leaving the playing area. e) Recommend nominating current Pitch 2 as the main ground given existing and proposed lighting and pavilion development.

Pavilion Facilities: a) Existing change rooms and Corio SC club room require upgrading (deficiencies include a lack of female amenities, storage, kiosk, meeting room and social area). b) Consider opportunities to establish a single shared use pavilion, for use by all clubs/groups. c) The Corio SC are likely to be reluctant to relinquish control of their existing facility - there is an opportunity to establish a single shared use pavilion, demolish the existing club rooms and open up this parcel of land to improve access to the reserve, including car parking. d) The legal status of land ownership and asset control on the site occupied by the Corio SC may require review by CoGG. e) The anticipated capital budget for a new pavilion will be a major driver in determining the preferred location, size and nature of any new pavilion. f) A number of possible sites have been considered for the possible development of a new pavilion building. The pros and cons of each option are presented on the following page

INSERT pavilion SITE options ANALYSIS DRAWING page 19.

• Core The following section describes the core objectives and vision for the reserve, having Objectives and regard to the research results, consultation outcomes, issues, opportunities and Vision for Hume original project intent. Reserve 1. HUME RESERVE MASTER PLAN CORE OBJECTIVES The following five core objectives for the Master Plan have been identified and confirmed via the consultation and research undertaken to date. The core objectives are: a) Support the ongoing function of the reserve as an important local soccer venue. b) Increase opportunities for informal community use. c) Support community use of the Bocce facilities, recognising their importance in facilitating social capital. d) Enhance the appearance and appeal of the reserve. e) Develop a plan that guides priorities for the staged development and improvement of the reserve.

2. HUME RESERVE MASTER PLAN VISION Having regard to the core objectives as outlined above, the following vision for Hume Reserve has been identified as a long-term aspiration for the park. Hume Reserve will play an important role in servicing local community needs, contributing to a strong sense of community connectedness, social capital and general well being. Hume Reserve will be reinforced as an important local level soccer facility in the northern suburbs. Facilities and infrastructure will be developed and maintained in order to support active sporting use (i.e. soccer), informal recreation and general community use.

• Draft Report As previously indicated, the initial draft report was presented to the PWG, PRG and Feedback placed on public exhibition for a four-week period. In addition, an informal community information session was staged on-site during the public exhibition period, i.e. Wednesday 11th November, 2009. A notice was distributed to all residents within an approximate 400m radius of the park advising them of opportunities to view and comment on the draft report, as well as inviting them to attend the community information session. Ten people attended the information session throughout the three-hour drop-in period. Overall, feedback was extremely positive, with all respondents expressing support for the plan and encouraging Council to implement the recommended improvements. The main issues raised in the feedback reinforced the objectives of the Master Plan i.e. restrict motorbike access, improve community facilities, improve landscaping and appeal, address litter/broken glass etc. A number of respondents expressed concerns with the management of the existing Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club social facility, in particular concern regarding impacts on residential amenity (i.e. noise, litter, traffic). Two written submissions were also received via email. The first submission was from

a near-by resident, which expressed views similar to those identified above, superficially: “On the initial viewing of the plan, I am pleased. Looks like good results for all users of the park. I really want to re-enforce the problems of motorbikes and broken glass. I saw a note about the motorbikes and plans for bins. Please do remember to make these two points must do items”. The second submission was from the Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club, which confirmed the club’s preference to remain in their existing facility, rather than sharing a potential new multi-use pavilion. The club submission said: “The club has not changed its view on the proposed new shared facility, and wishes to decline the offer to transfer the club owned facility to council. As previously stated the proposed facility is a lot smaller than our current facility, which we are looking at extending because it does not meet our needs.” Therefore, the final Master Plan (i.e. this report) has been altered from the draft version to reflect the club preference to retain their existing facility, however the Master Plan retains the option to develop a new multi-use pavilion incorporating new change rooms as an initial stage and possible future stage to incorporate a social room and meetings space for other reserve users/clubs or community groups. Demand for such a facility will need to be monitored in the long term.

• Master Plan The following Master Plan for Hume Reserve outlines the main facility and infrastructure improvements that are likely to be needed to help achieve the vision and address the core objectives for the site. The Master Plan is presented in the following illustrations: 1. Hume Reserve Master Plan. 2. Hume Reserve Master Plan – Indicative Component Details. 3. Hume Reserve Master Plan – Indicative Structure and Furniture Style Guide. 4. Indicative Pavilion Design 5. Indicative Pavilion Preferred Site Option A description of the major Master Plan features is included on each plan. The plans are provided on the following pages.

Hume Reserve Master Plan – page 21

Hume Reserve Master Plan – Indicative Component Details –page 22.

Hume Reserve Master Plan – Indicative Structure and Furniture Style Guide – page 23.

Indicative Pavilion Design – page 24

Indicative Pavilion Preferred Site Option –page 25

• Additional The following recommendations are made in addition to the actions outlined in the Recommendations Master Plan. The recommendations primarily relate to requirements for additional planning, design or management and therefore have not been costed as part of the Master Plan implementation. 1. RECYCLED WATER An objective of the Master Plan was to improve the physical appearance, amenity and appeal of the reserve. A range of improvement initiatives have been outlined which will contribute to achieving this objective, however one of the most critical components to improving the appeal (and use) of the reserve will be access to adequate water to supply the irrigation needs of the park, including playing fields and landscaping. There appears to be three possible options for Council to potentially access alternative water sources.

Option Description What’s needed Pros and Cons

1. Deppeler The City’s Environment Unit has indicated The proposed system requires a pump and Ready supply of stormwater from the Park preliminary in-principle support for accessing pipe to supply the existing tanks. A 1500 lake.

water from existing storage in Deppeler Park metre pipe would need to be laid within the Potential issues with water availability for use at Hume Reserve. It is understood that road reserve. This pipe will need to cross the and irrigation reliability over summer reducing/controlling water levels in Deppeler railway line (by underboring). The system depending on the results of the Park will help facilitate improved would be similar to that implemented in environmental assessment. Further environmental outcomes for the water body, Leopold to provide water to Memorial Park modelling needs to be undertaken to whilst potentially having the capacity to service from the Gateway Sanctuary. The water confirm reliability of supply. Hume Reserve needs. supply will need monitoring and possible Potential issues with water quality treatment for water quality issues such as e- particularly e-coli. coli. The proposal will require an High cost of installing the pipe and environmental assessment of the wetland and under-boring the railway line. an irrigation licence. Permits and licences will need to be obtained from Southern Rural Water and the City to use the water and lay the pipe.

2. Roof An alternative non-potable water source may Diverting stormwater from the South west end This system will only supply 2-3 ML of Collection also be available via harvesting rain water of Hume Reserve Court will enable the water per year so will not be enough for from roof catchments in adjacent industrial capture of water from the nearby industrial all of the sports fields requirements.

properties. precinct, generally the rainwater that falls on The project will require engineering roofs and concrete hard stand. The proposed permission from the City of Greater system requires a sump, pump and pipe (200 Geelong. metres) to be installed. It also requires a large The project is relatively simple low cost. tank (250 kL) to store the stormwater. The size of the catchment and tank storage will limit the volume of water for reuse.

3. MAR Council’s Water Infrastructure Officer has The proposed system requires infrastructure to Studies are currently being undertaken

Option Description What’s needed Pros and Cons

indicated there may be potential to secure capture water from the nearby retarding basin to determine the risks and costs stormwater from the urban drainage scheme (i.e. external to the reserve), filter the water associated with implementing a MAR and use a Managed Aquifer Recharge and inject it into the aquifer below. The water scheme at the reserve. Permits and (MAR) to store and supply the water to irrigate can then be stored seasonally in the aquifer licences will need to be obtained from the reserve. until it is required for each irrigation season. It the Environment Protection Authority

Existing studies show that there is a suitable is expected a certain level of passive and Southern Rural Water to enable the volume of stormwater available to secure the treatment will occur during the storage period. City to operate the scheme. supply of irrigation water for the reserve. The Water will be extracted from the aquifer during proposed construction of the new drainage the irrigation season via a groundwater pump, scheme adjoining the reserve (by CoGG’s filtered and transferred via a supply line to the Engineering Services) provides an opportunity reserve. The supply line needs to connect to to minimise construction costs by laying the the existing tanks at the reserve for the water supply line concurrently with the new drainage to be used to irrigate the soccer fields. line.

At the time of writing this report, Council has been confirmed that it has received grant funding to pursue the development of a Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) scheme to supply the irrigation needs of Hume Reserve.

2. LAND OWNERSHIP AND CONTROL The legal status of land ownership and asset control within the parcel of land occupied by the Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club pavilion is not entirely clear. It is recommended that this situation be reviewed with the intention of clarifying the situation for all parties concerned including roles, responsibilities and public access arrangements. CoGG should seek to ensure consistency with the management of other public open space areas for which it is ultimately responsible. Council’s Property Services Coordinator has provided the following information following preliminary investigations regarding the two parcels of land at 24 Almana Street, Bell Park (i.e. site occupied by the Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club). There are two separate parcels of land in question, each having its own title particulars. Both parcels are contained in the Residential 1 Zone and abut the western boundary of what is known as Hume Reserve, Bell Park. The copies of Titles for the properties note that the registered proprietor of the properties is “The President, Councillors and Rate Payers of the Shire of Corio” being the predecessor to the Greater Geelong City Council. In addition, two Deeds exist in relation to the site: 1. An undated Declaration of Trust which appears to have been made in 1965. The Declaration essentially sets outs that Lot 68 on Plan of Subdivision 28033 was purchased by Norman Haigh on 20 May, 1960 as trustee for the Corio Soccer Club and that Lot 69 was purchased by Norman Haigh, Harold Pettij, Arnold Westphal and Patrick James Paul Considine on 27 October, 1960 as trustees for the Corio Soccer Club. The Declaration then conveys the two parcels of Land to Council (in its former name prior to amalgamation) to be held on trust for the benefit of the Club. There is a provision for the parcels of land to be transferred back to the Club at the Club’s cost when requested by the Club.

2. The second Deed appears to have been entered into by Council and the Club as part of an arrangement where the Club requested Council to guarantee a loan advance made by the Bank of Melbourne (now Westpac Banking Corporation). By way of summary, this Deed provided for the property to be forfeited to Council absolutely (arguably by dissolution of the Declaration of Trust) in the event that the Club did not meet its obligations under the loan advance made to it. This second Deed was entered into in 1994 relating to a debt of $25,000.00. Presumably this has been repaid (but will need to confirmed). Based on the above, it appears that Council is the ‘mere legal vessel’ holding the property. Whilst Council is the registered proprietor of the land, the true owner (i.e. the beneficial owner) is the Club (which I believe is now known as the Corio-Geelong United Soccer Club). However, I have conducted some preliminary searches, one of which includes a copy of the original Transfer of Land instrument for Lot 69. The Transfer is between Horace Murray Lambell (not Norman Haigh, Harold Pettij, Arnold Westphal and Patrick James Paul Considine who originally purchased the land as noted above) and that the transfer is being made to Council in exchange for Council paying to Mr Lambell an amount of £375.00. Ordinarily, a transfer arising from the formation of a trust does not have money passing between the parties – the passing of money indicates a commercial transaction rather than an equitable one (which is what the formation of a trust is). The Transfer also says that Mr Lambell transfers “all his estate and interest” in the land to Council. No mention is made of beneficial ownership of the land by other parties (i.e. the Club). This does not appear to be consistent with the concept of land being transferred to facilitate a trust arrangement. More information should be sought to clarify exactly what the position is with regards to the true legal and beneficial ownership of the land.

3. SIGNAGE AND COMMUNICATION The Master Plan identifies opportunities for improved signage and establishment of a significant entry feature/sign off Hume Reserve Court. Council’s Marketing and Communications Department (i.e. graphic design team) may need to consider appropriate design options for the main entry feature, however all other signage (including at other entry points) should be consistent with CoGG’s general reserve signage suite.

4. NORTH GEELONG SECONDARY COLLEGE Preliminary discussions have been held with the Principal of the North Geelong Secondary College as part of the consultation process for the Master Plan. Specific community demand for use of school facilities (e.g. outdoor netball courts) has not been identified as part of this planning process, however this may become evident in the future. Department of Education practice, and discussions with the Principal, has confirmed in-principle support for increasing community use of school facilities subject to appropriate joint use agreements. Hence CoGG should monitor levels of demand for community access to netball facilities (and other school assets) and engage in joint-use discussions with the school if required at the appropriate time.

5. RESPONDING TO NEW REQUESTS It is likely that CoGG will receive requests for new or additional infrastructure (or uses) that have not been considered at the time of developing this Master Plan. Should this arise, development or usage requests should be assessed against their contribution to, or consistency with the Aims and Objectives for Hume Reserve as outlined in Section 6. Requests that are deemed to be in line with the aims and objectives for the reserve, and are compatible with existing uses may be considered appropriate by Council.

• Implementation The following section provides an overview of the indicative capital costs to implement each of the key improvement actions identified, and presents these actions within an overall recommended implementation framework (i.e. priorities). The priorities are as follows: Mandatory (i.e. required by legislation or regulation). Critical (i.e. relating to water use sustainability, risk mitigation or safety). High Medium Low Ongoing 1. SUMMARY OF INDICATIVE COSTS AND PRIORITIES Mandatory = Nil Critical = $24,000 High = $320,000 Medium = $2,186,620 Low = $756,080 Total = $3,286,700

2. IMPLEMENTATION The Master Plan should be implemented sequentially in accordance with the identified prioritisation. Individual projects should be considered as part of Council’s annual budget and capital works deliberation process. Ultimately funding and timing of implementation will be subject to Council’s financial capacity, competing demands, partnership opportunities and external grants. The Master Plan should be reviewed annually by Council staff in order to identify key projects for consideration in Council’s budget process, with a more formal review occurring every five years in consultation with clubs and key stakeholders to ensure outstanding actions remain relevant and appropriate.

3. INDICATIVE COST DETAILS The table on the following pages provides a detailed breakdown of the indicative costs and description for each action.

Cost 1 page 30

Cost 2 – page 31

4. EXCLUSIONS AND ASSUMPTIONS The following exclusions and assumptions have been made in determining the indicative cost information: a) The indicative costs are provided for budget guidance purposes only, the cost of individual projects may vary significantly depending on the construction method used, materials, site conditions, engineering requirements and final designs. b) Prices do not include GST. c) No allowance has been made for professional fees (i.e. building and construction drawings), these could add a further 10% to key individual projects. d) No allowance has been made for a project contingency, a minimum allowance of 5% of the total project cost is recommended. e) No allowance has been made for volunteer labour or in-kind support. f) No allowance has been made for the use of second hand or recycled materials. g) No allowance has been made for statutory planning costs or requirements. It is assumed these will be borne by Council. h) Prices quoted are based on current rates, no allowance has been made for cost escalations associated with time delays. i) No allowance has been made for service upgrades or improvements (i.e. power, water).

5. OPERATIONAL COSTS The Master Plan provides for the staged provision of new and improved facilities in Hume Reserve. Council’s operational budgets will need to be reviewed as new and improved assets are developed. As a guide, 1% - 3% of the total construction cost for new projects is commonly allocated for annual maintenance requirements.

•Conclusions The Master Plan for Hume Reserve has been developed to guide the future development and improvement of the reserve in order to more effectively address the contemporary needs of existing user groups whist supporting and enhancing opportunities for broad community enjoyment of the reserve. The plan addresses the core objectives for the project, in particular improved traffic management, safety, circulation and connections between the two parcels of land. The plan also responds to community and stakeholder feedback, including a strong desire to improve existing sporting infrastructure and enhance opportunities for broad community use. Progressive implementation of the Master Plan will help achieve the overall vision for the site, including reinforcing its role as an important local level soccer facility and valued community open space.

Appendix 1: A copy of the on-line survey is attached. Copies (558) of the on-line survey were also Community Surveydistributed to near-by residents (i.e. generally within a 400m radius). Key survey results are presented in Appendix 2.

Introduction The City of Greater Geelong recently appointed specialist planning consultants Insight Leisure Planning to develop a Master Plan for Hume Reserve, located off Thompson Road, Bell Park. Hume Reserve is currently used primarily for soccer and bocce as well as providing a key open space link between local schools and surrounding residential areas. A number of key facilities in the reserve are reaching the end of their useful life and may require refurbishment or possible replacement. The active sporting uses of the reserve will continue, however the master plan will also consider possible opportunities to improve the appeal of the reserve for informal community use and additional landscaping. The City is keen to hear from members of the community in relation to this project. The following survey provides an opportunity for comments, suggestions and input into this important planning project. The survey should take no more than ten minutes to complete. All completed surveys will be considered in helping to determine the future direction and priorities for the reserve. Instructions As per CoGG survey design.

Questions Current Reserve Use: 1. Are you currently a member of an existing club or group located in Hume Reserve? If yes, please specify (tick box):  Corio Cloverdale Soccer Club  Corio Norlane Suburbs Soccer Club  Bocce group  Dog activities walking group  Other – specify:

2. What are your main reasons for visiting Hume Reserve? (Tick box, multiple responses are OK, examples include…)  I do not use Hume Reserve (go to Q4)  Personal health and fitness  To participate in formal sport (i.e. as part of a club)  To watch sport as a spectator  School activities  To attend an event  Casual play  Family recreation  As a short cut between destinations  To get to/from school  Other – please specify:

3. What are the main activities that you currently undertake at the reserve? (Tick box, multiple responses are OK, examples include…)  Soccer  Bocce  Watching sport (spectator)  Walking or jogging  Walking the dog  Cycling  Family outing  Casual kick about  Picnic or BBQ  Other, please specify:

4. If you do not currently use Hume Reserve, why not? (Tick box, multiple responses are OK, examples include…)  No time/not interested  The existing facilities do not interest me  The existing sports and activities do not interest me  Poor quality facilities  I don’t know what is available  I am not a member of any of the clubs  I don’t know how to join one of the clubs  I don’t feel welcome  I don’t feel safe in the reserve  I don’t live near the reserve  Other, please specify

Possible Opportunities for Improvement: 5. What do you like about Hume Reserve? 6. What don’t you like? 7. Do the current facilities and infrastructure available in the reserve meet your needs? (Yes/No) If no, why not, please specify what should be changed or improved? (e.g. Consider roads, access, car parking, paths, community facilities, club rooms, public toilets, park furniture, lighting, landscaping etc). 8. Are there any specific facilities, infrastructure or features you would like to see developed in the reserve which would make it more appealing for you or your family to use/visit the reserve? Please specify.

9. What do you consider should be the top three priorities for improvement to Hume Reserve? a. ______b. ______c. ______

Respondent Profile Information: 10. Age group (e.g. under 15 years, 16-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46-55, 56-65, 66+)?

11. Gender? 12. Place of residence – suburb required only.

Appendix 2: Initial The table below provides an overview of the main themes and/or issues raised during Consultation the various consultation activities undertaken, including a summary of the community Results survey results. STAFF AND STAKEHOLDERS Consultation Method Key Themes or Issues How Addressed Group Council Staff Workshop and  The area occupied by pitch 4 is required for  Opportunities for use of this area for PWG (20/3) water retardation, this could be an irregular informal recreation and landscape meetings and shape, or retain function as a soccer pitch. improvements have been identified, telephone whilst maintaining water retardation interviews. integrity.  Consider opportunities to enhance informal  Opportunities identified for adaptive re- recreation opportunities and general use of the area occupied by pitch 4. landscape improvements (e.g. playground, park furniture and features).  There is minimal staff support for  This concept will not be pursued. development of a community garden.  Consider ½ court basketball and ‘hit-up’ wall.  Identified on pitch 4.  Consider options for water harvesting and  Opportunities for water storage and reuse, including off the catchments provided reuse will be identified. by near-by industrial roofs.  Consider requests from Bocce for facility  A range of improvements to Bocce improvements, however improvements must facilities have been supported. demonstrate cost/community benefits.  Define and upgrade entrances to the reserve,  Improvement opportunities identified. including at entrances to linear connections (e.g. Furner Av).  Linear trails:  Possible improvement initiatives have o Upgrade review vegetation. been identified. o Consider security lighting. o Prevent motorbike access.  Consider cost: benefit of possible (L-T)  Not supported, acquisition would purchase of house block at ‘squeeze point’ provide minimal benefit. between two parcels of land.  Consider opportunities to demolish existing  Options for a single consolidated pavilion buildings in preference for a single pavilion are supported in the plan. consolidated facility (shared use by all groups).  Provide sheltered viewing area for the Bocce  Opportunities for spectator shelter have courts. Consider within the context of a single been identified. Full enclosure or consolidated facility. roofing of the Bocce courts is not supported.  Improve the central area between the two  Improvement initiatives identified. parcels of land.  Consider cost: benefit of moving existing  Not considered necessary. water tanks underground.  Explore options for bike path connections  An alternative connection has been through the school site to access Separation identified without reliance on access via Street. the school.  Proposed increasing housing density within  The master plan provides a framework 400m radius of Separation Street activity for improved facilities which will centre will increase the population and increase the capacity of the reserve to demand for formal and informal recreation. cater for residents.

Consultation Method Key Themes or Issues How Addressed Group

Project Workshop  Corio Soccer Club play in the FFV  Noted. Shared use of facilities will be Reference (25/3) and competition, Corio Cloverdale play in the local encouraged. Group telephone Geelong competition. The clubs are two (i.e. existing interviews. separate identities, however are trialling a clubs and user joint approach this calendar year. groups).  The clubs currently share change room facilities, however Corio SC maintains separate/independent clubrooms.  It is foreseeable that the two clubs could become one.  Corio SC rooms require upgrading. In the  Noted. past Council and the club have both contributed to the facility development.  Corio Cloverdale currently use Pitch 3 and  Noted. access other Council building for social gatherings as needed.  Consider fencing the playing fields to prevent  Supported. motor bikes ruining turf.  Asphalt and define the existing gravel car  Included in the master plan. park.  Additional car parking is desirable if it can be  Supported. provided.  Bocce requests:  Refer to Section 5. o Address safety concerns (i.e. counter sink bolts, improve perimeter walls). o Improve pitch drainage. o Install a waist height mesh fence all round the playing area, with access gates at each end. o Reduce overall width to achieve a central walkway and viewing/seating area (approx. 2.5m wide), defined by fencing. (Refer to Slovenia Club Bocce facility as an example on Goldsworthy Road). o Tree litter can be an issue. o Consider shade sail or roof over the pitch areas for shelter, weather protection and prevent tree litter. o Ideally would like access to a social room for gatherings and in the event of poor weather. o Lighting one pitch would be beneficial. o Small store room also needed. o 2 pitches are adequate, location is good, access to toilets is good (but not always open).  Development of Hume Reserve to be  3 pitches are considered adequate. considered as a local level soccer facility, not Synthetic pitches will not be considered. regional.  A single shared use pavilion and clubroom  Opportunities have been explored. maybe worth considering.  Flood lighting to match standard on pitch 1  Improved lighting is identified in the may be required to help spread usage loads. master plan.

Consultation Method Key Themes or Issues How Addressed Group  There is a significant lack of facilities t support  Improved facilities will be identified, female participation. including priority for shared use and female amenities and infrastructure.  Support itch 4 being converted to informal  Improvements identified in the master community use, with added infrastructure plan. attractions.  Consider options for stormwater use or water  Supported for further investigation. harvesting off industrial buildings.  Improving fencing (pitch 1&2) to prevent ball  Supported in the master plan. entering the car park and roads (i.e. install mesh).

 Priorities:  Supported in the master plan. o Lighting pitch 1. o Amenity and change room improvements, including females. o Upgrade/establish social clubrooms. o Address Bocce safety concerns. o Install mesh fencing at ends of pitch 1&2. Corio Soccer Submission –  Requests:  The majority of actions have been Club Mario o Flood lights to match standard. identified in the master plan. Gregorio, Club Committee o Upgrade change rooms. member. o Upgrade social club rooms, including kitchen, kiosk and toilets. o Extension of security fencing around club rooms to prevent break-ins.

1. COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS The following section provides a summary of the key results obtained from the On- Line Community Survey. Hard copies of the three separate survey were also distributed to all households within an approximate 400 metre radius of the reserve. A total of 21 completed surveys were received from these two sources. Key outcomes from the completed surveys are presented below. Q1. Are you a member of an existing club located in Hume Reserve? No answer #9 43% No #0 0% Yes #12 57% Clubs nominated: • Bocce Group #4 • Corio Northern Suburbs Soccer Club #8 Q2. What are your main reasons for visiting Hume Reserve? To watch sport #13 25% Personal health and fitness #10 19% Family recreation #8 15% Casual play #6 12% Short cut between destinations #5 10%

To participate in formal sport #5 10% Attend an event #5 10% Total reasons #52 Q3. What are the main activities that you currently undertake at the reserve? Watching sport (spectator) #10 20% Walking or jogging #8 16% Soccer #8 16% Cycling #6 12% Casual kick around #6 12% Bocce #5 10% Walking the dog #4 8% Family outing #3 6% Picnic or BBQ #1 2% Total activities nominated #51 Q4. If you do not currently use Hume Reserve, why not? Don’t know what is available #2 Not a member of the clubs #1 I don’t feel safe in the reserve #1 Total reasons #4 Q5. What do you like about Hume Reserve? Close to home #8 33% Open space #4 17% Good Bocce facilities #3 12% Easy access #2 8% Walking track #2 Social/family atmosphere #2 Safe and pleasant #1 Trees #1 Attracts bird life #1 Total suggestions #24 Q6.What don’t you like about Hume Reserve? No play equipment (e.g. swing) #4 22% Lack of shade #3 14% Rubbish/litter #2 9% Motor bikes #2 9% Not very green (Drought conditions) #1 No picnic area #1 Lack shelter (Bocce) #1 Dogs #1 Lack of facilities #1 Toilets not open #1

Poor playing surface condition #1 Total suggestions #18

Q7. Do current facilities and infrastructure meet your needs? If no, why not? Yes #7 54% No #6 46% Reasons: • Lack park furniture, including BBQ (x3). • Install playground (x2) • No club room/community facility (x2). • Install additional rubbish bins. • Block motorbikes. • Install basketball court. • Improve landscaping and trees. • Improve fencing (stop balls hitting cars). • Upgrade existing pavilion facilities.

Q8. Are there any specific facilities, infrastructure or features you would like to see developed in the reserve which would make it more appealing for you or your family to use/visit the reserve? Park furniture/seating #4 21% More trees/landscaping #3 16% Playground #2 11% Shade #1 Lighting #1 Café #1 Dog litter bags #1 Road access from north #1 Community facilities #1 Upgrade amenities #1 Clubhouse #1 Soccer pitch standard #1 Fencing behind soccer goals #1 Total #19

Q9. What do you consider to be the top three priorities for improvement? More trees/landscaping #3 10% Park furniture/seating #3 10% Playground #3 10% Improve facilities #3 10% Maintain turf surfaces #2 7%

Prevent motorbikes #2 Clubrooms #2 More native plants #1 Path connections #1 Recycled water #1 Remove graffiti #1 Lighting #1 Family play area #1 Improvements to Bocce #1 Shade structure #1 Fencing at end of piitch1&2 #1 Improve access #1 Canteen #1 Total suggestions #29 Q10. Age group? Under 15 years #0 0% 16-25 years #1 5% 26-35 years #2 10% 36-45 years #7 35% 46-55 years #3 15% 56+ years #7 35% Q11. Gender? Male #14 67% Female #3 14% Not stated #4 19% Q12 Place of residence? Bell Park #13 65% Bell Post Hill #2 10% Corio #2 10% Norlane #1 Newtown #1 Taylors Hill #1

Appendix 3: A copy of the PowerPoint presentation that was delivered to the Project Control Issues and Group, Project Working Group and Project Reference Group is attached. Feedback Opportunities on the presentation was used to help guide the development of the subsequent Presentation Master Plan.

Issues and ops page1 (pp43-49)

Issues and ops page2

Appendix 4: Initial A copy of the initial Issues and Opportunities Plan is attached, it should be noted that Issues and this is not intended to represent a design solution, rather the drawing graphically Opportunities Plan illustrates a number of the key issues and possible opportunities related to the site. Feedback on the plan was used to help guide the development of the subsequent Master Plan.

Issues and Ops plan – page 51.

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