Boroondara Open Space Strategy

Adopted by Council 9 December 2013 Acknowledgements The Boroondara Open Space Strategy has been prepared for the City of Boroondara by Thompson Berrill Landscape Design Pty Ltd in association with Environment & Land Management Pty Ltd. The population forecast information used in this strategy was commissioned by and prepared for Boroondara City Council by .id Consulting. November 2013 Index

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1. Introduction 1 2. Definition of open space for this strategy 2 3. Existing open space in Boroondara 3 4. Open space framework 4 5. Key changes that influence this strategy 7 6. Municipal-wide recommendations 8 7. Precinct recommendations 13 7.1 Ashburton 14 7.2 Balwyn/Mont Albert 16 7.3 Balwyn North 18 7.4 Camberwell 20 7.5 Canterbury 22 7.6 Deepdene 24 7.7 Glen Iris 25 7.8 Hawthorn 27 7.9 Hawthorn East 29 7.10 Kew 31 7.11 Kew East 33 7.12 Surrey Hills 35 8. Open space design and management recommendations 37 9. Implementation 39

Boroondara Open Space Strategy Boroondara Open Space Strategy 1. Introduction

Open space contributes to our quality needs; and population change. Open recreational and social needs and Recreational of life in many ways and is an essential space is already an important part of the expectations. Open space encourages the community part of the natural and built environment character and identity of Boroondara and Connected to be outside, play sport, exercise of Boroondara. We value open space this strategy identifies opportunities for and/or keep fit to improve their health The open space network and other for many reasons including for fitness, future improvements to open space to and wellbeing. exercise, socialising, relaxing, protecting meet the future challenges and changes public land provides recreational, habitat and improving biodiversity values, contact through to 2026. The funding for the corridors and sustainable commuter Shared with nature and participating in sport. improvements will be a combination of transport corridors and links that improve The open space network will continue accessibility along with recreational and to embrace a variety of values and uses The Boroondara Open Space Strategy rates, external grants and open space environmental values of open space. encouraging respect and consideration of (BOSS) provides the strategic direction contributions. all in sharing the space. for the future planning, provision, design Cultural and management of open space in Open space principles Open space reflects and celebrates Social Boroondara through to 2026. Providing a and aims indigenous and non-indigenous cultural Open space provides opportunities for the robust, quality open space system for the heritage and contemporary values. Boroondara community to meet, socialise existing and forecast future population This strategy has adopted the Vision from Diverse and participate in a variety of activities so that is easily accessible has carefully ‘Our Boroondara – Our City, Our Future’: it is accessible and safe for all. been assessed as part of the strategy. The open space network provides a Quality open space contributes to mental A vibrant, livable city which fosters the diversity of places for the community Sustainable and physical health and wellbeing of our cultural, environmental, economic and to visit and habitats for native flora and The open space network is designed community along with the ecological personal wellbeing of our community. fauna. and managed to maximise opportunities health of our urban environment. The following open space principles Equitable to mitigate climate change, improve biodiversity and achieve improved Some of the major challenges that we are and aims meet the municipal vision. Open space is within easy and safe ecological outcomes. facing include climate change; providing Please note these principles are listed in walking distance of the Boroondara for diverse and changing recreational alphabetical order, as all of them are of community. equal importance. Accessible The open space network is accessible to the Boroondara community including people of all ages, abilities, health, gender and cultural background. Adaptable Open space and its facilities are flexible to adapt to changing environmental,

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 1 2. Definition of open space for this strategy

Public open space the public realm. However in all cases to the public realm, however they cannot ancillary open space is primarily reserved be relied upon as being available to the Open space for the purposes of this for other purposes and those take public as open space in the long term. strategy is the publicly owned land that precedence over its value and use as This land can be built on or redesigned for is currently set aside, or has the potential open space. For example schools can a different purpose at the discretion of the in the future to be set aside primarily decide to construct new classrooms private landholder. for recreation, nature conservation and over existing multi-use courts. Similarly, passive outdoor enjoyment. This includes railway lines can be duplicated or Public realm parks, gardens reserves, waterways, civic stations expanded and the incidental Public realm refers to all public open forecourts and plazas. recreational use the railway reserve may space along with other publicly owned This definition has been developed have had for walking or presence of trees land between buildings including streets. to be consistent with open space for and contribution of green character is This strategy recognises that the public which a contribution from developers not a priority or reasons to prevent an realm is important to consider as a can legitimately be required within the infrastructure upgrade. whole, but that there are a range of other strategies to guide different elements of Subdivision Act 1988. Public open space The reason these distinctions are made the public realm including Urban Design is defined in this Act as‘land set aside in is to ensure that this strategy focuses Frameworks, Structure Plans, Streetscape a plan or land in a plan zoned or reserved on ensuring there is adequate provision Design Plans and Street Tree Strategies. under the planning scheme - (a) for of open space that is reserved primarily public recreation or public resort; or (b) as for this purpose so it is there for future Structured sport and recreation parklands; or (c) for a similar purpose’. generations, without the ability for it to be This refers to an activity that is organised Throughout this strategy public open sold or converted to another use without by a club, association, school or space is referred to as ‘open space’. clear demonstration that it is no longer community group and participation is by required by the community as open becoming a member of the club or on a space. Ancillary open space fee paying basis. This term is used to refer to other areas of public land that are sometimes also Other useful definitions Unstructured recreation An activity that is initiated by individuals referred to as open space, but are not Publicly accessible private included in our definition for public open and not organised by a club or other open space space in this strategy. Ancillary open group. space includes streets, school grounds, This refers to privately owned land which railway reserves (where they are not is designed for the public to use for managed as public open space) and road some of the time or on a membership or reserves. fee-paying basis. This includes church grounds, private forecourts to buildings The strategy recognises the contribution and private golf courses. As with ancillary that ancillary open space makes to open space these areas can contribute

2 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 3. Existing open space in Boroondara

The City of Boroondara lies within the in open space is featured in Maranoa clan territory of the Wurundjeri Willam Gardens, which has a unique collection who moved seasonally through the area of Australian flora. Directly adjoining this spending the summer months on the is the remnant woodland in Beckett Park. banks of the Yarra River where food was Other areas of remnant woodland are abundant. The Yarra River and Gardiners present in Belmont, Cato and Greythorn Creek frame three of the four boundaries Parks, along with scattered remnant of the municipality and are highly valued indigenous trees in a number of other biodiversity and recreational corridors. open spaces. The Yarra River changes from a broader Contrasting the native and indigenous floodplain with wetlands in Kew East, to vegetation character in the City are the the steeply graded escarpment sections well-established exotic plantings in the in Yarra Bend and Studley Parks. The heritage gardens. Some of the earliest Main Yarra Trail and other path networks include Creswick Gardens, Yarra Bank provide connectivity along the open space Reserve and St James Park followed by corridor. Popular recreational uses include those from the early 1900s including Read walking, cycling, jogging, picnics, golf, Gardens, Central Gardens and Alexandra kayaking and rowing. Gardens. While the railways had a key Substantial areas of open space along role in facilitating urban development, the Gardiners Creek include HA Smith closure of two of these lines including Reserve, Patterson Reserve, Nettleton the shorter Spur Line and the Outer Park, Eric Raven Reserve, Dorothy Laver Circle Railway has shaped open space East and West Reserves and Markham connectivity through the city today. The Reserve. Anniversary Trail in the Outer Circle Linear These accommodate a range of Park today link some larger open spaces Diagram Key along it including Boroondara Park and structured sporting facilities, along with Existing open space unstructured recreation and informal use. Frog Hollow Reserve. The shared trail moves between the cities The diversity of open space encourages Restricted open space of Stonnington and Boroondara due to people outdoors and Boroondara has (where access is available on a membership and/or fee paying discontinuity of public land ownership. above average levels of participation basis or at limited times) Other key waterway corridors include in exercise compared with other the Koonung Creek system in the north municipalities. This is assisted by the large Suburb boundaries through Balwyn North and the linked number of quality outdoor structured and Waterways system of open space along Back Creek unstructured sporting facilities positively in Glen Iris. contributing to an active and healthy Away from the waterways native planting community. Diagram 3-1 Existing open space

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 3 4. Open space framework

Standards for the Open space hierarchy for Boroondara provision of open space The hierarchy is based on the intended catchment of users and the relative size and design of the open space to adequately cater to its intended use. It is a guide for analysing the spatial distribution of open space and is a management tool to direct appropriate Currently there are no specific facility development and maintenance levels in different types of open space reserves. benchmarks for open space provision in the planning system applicable to established urban Hierarchy Size Walking distance Example areas like Boroondara. Open space planning principles as set out in Regional – Primarily caters to the broader regional Unlimited • Unlimited for regional the current metropolitan planning population and/or protection and enhancement of visitors strategy and Clause 56 of the biodiversity values in a regional context. Examples include • 500 metre distance Boroondara Planning Scheme Maranoa Gardens, open space along the Yarra River and applied for have been used as the basis for Gardiners Creek. neighbourhood use developing a hierarchy system for use in analysis and planning for the open space network in Boroondara. Municipal – Provide facilities and features that attract Minimum 3 • Located within 2 km A summary of these include: the municipal-wide population and/or protect municipal hectares of 95% of dwellings biodiversity and heritage values. This can include • Provide a network of quality, well- • 500 metre walking distributed, multi-functional and structured sporting facilities, historical gardens or distance applied for adaptable public open space. major unstructured recreation facilities including fitness neighbourhood use equipment and multi-purpose courts. Examples include • Encourage healthy and active Macleay Park, St James Park and Outer Circle Linear Park. communities. • Protect and enhance natural and cultural features where appropriate. Neighbourhood – Provide facilities and features that Minimum 1 • 500 metre safe • Provide local open space within appeal to the neighbourhood population including a range hectare walking distance safe walking distance of at least 95 of unstructured recreation and informal facilities. Examples from dwellings and per cent of all dwellings. include Frog Hollow Reserve, Summerhill Park and workplaces Canterbury Gardens. • Provide additional small local open space and public squares in activity centres and higher density Local – Provides at least enough space for two activities or Less than 1 • 300 metre safe residential areas. groups to use the open space simultaneously, for example hectare to walking distance • Provide active open space within an open grassed area with seating and playground. 0.26 hectare from dwellings and one to two kilometres of 95 per Examples include Mary MacKillop Reserve, Bowen workplaces cent of all dwellings. Gardens and Windella Avenue Reserve.

4 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Open space framework (continued)

Hierarchy Size Walking distance Example Quantity Small Local – Provides at least enough space for one From 0.25 to • 200 metre safe Fast facts main activity to occur in the open space, for example an 0.03 hectare walking distance open grassed area with seating or a playground. Examples in size and from dwellings and 9.9% include Allambee Reserve and Railway Place Reserve. min. 10m workplaces width in any 9.9% of the direction municipality is public open Small Local Links – These provide improved connectivity Less than Not applicable space between streets and open space. 0.03 hectare in size = 10sqm

36sqm of open per cent is made up of a diversity of The quality of each open space is Character classification space per person character types with just over 14 per assessed as to whether the open on a municipality- for Boroondara cent being Linear and nearly 11 per cent space meets the existing and wide level The character of open space is influenced being Informal. The primary character forecast community needs based by its inherent natural and physical classification guides future design and on the consultation outcomes, the characteristics, along with its urban management priorities for open space. site assessment and research into The character of some open spaces may forecast change and other influences. The 266 open spaces in Boroondara context and facilities. Defining the represent approximately 595 hectares and primary and secondary character of each change over time to better meet diverse The combined results of this analysis open space needs of the changing influences whether the open space equates to 9.9 per cent of the municipality. open space assists to identify if there The proportion of open space relative to are gaps in the provision of different community and environment. requires any change, or is adequately meeting existing and future needs. each suburb varies across the municipality types of open space. The strategy has and is described in more detail in the assigned a primary and secondary Quality Where the quality is considered inadequate now or in the future, actions Precinct Recommendations section of this character classification to all open space. strategy. In Boroondara just over 30 per cent of The quality of open space is important for upgrading the open space or provision the open space is classified as Nature as it influences whether the open space of additional open space are included in The quantity of open space is also conservation representing the largest is well used, appreciated and meets its this strategy. measured relative to population density. proportion of open space compared with intended function and value. Each open At a municipal-wide level, there is 36sqm other character types. These are located space is influenced and shaped by a of open space per person based on the primarily along the waterway corridors. range of factors including its size, form, 2011 estimated population. Open space with Sporting as the primary use, location, design, adjoining use and character comprises just under 30 per history. The diversity of the character and cent of open space. The remaining 40 quality of open space appeals to different age groups and those of all abilities.

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 5 Open space framework (continued)

Distribution of open space Overview distance, or the need to cross a major Open space has been established in road or railway to reach open space. Boroondara during different historical The strategy aims to overcome these gaps periods of urban development. Overall through either provision of additional open open space is reasonably well distributed space or by improving the pedestrian with linked open space systems along the amenity in the local street network to waterway corridors and the Outer Circle improve the journey and accessibility to Linear Park. There are some gaps in the open space. The gap analysis assessment provision of continuous open space along is one tool in considering the suitability of the waterways including the lower reaches the provision of open space. Other factors of the Yarra River and Gardiners Creek. include the relative density of people living The analysis of open space distribution and working in a precinct. Where higher outside of the linear open space corridors densities occur, this generally results in is done by assigning the relevant hierarchy higher levels of use of open space in part and corresponding safe walking distance due to a lack of private open space and to each open space. The walking also increased number of people in the distances take into account major catchment of each open space. barriers to access including major roads The analysis in the strategy has and railways. The gap analysis diagram considered existing levels of use and illustrates the distribution of open space forecast increase in urban densities and across the municipality with the relevant in some locations additional open space walking distances applied in accordance is proposed to accommodate increased with the hierarchy. levels of use. Gaps in the distribution of open space Gaps in the distribution of open space refer to locations where there is no open Diagram Key space available within safe easy walking CA-1 Gap area distance of the population. In these gap areas people need to travel further than Suburb boundaries the recommended safe walking distance applied to open space relevant to its size – ranging from 200 to 500 metre walking Diagram 4-1 Gap analysis

6 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 5. Key changes that influence this strategy

Forecast population This change will require improvements to centre. Provision of well distributed open Health and wellbeing the overall quantity, quality, diversity and spaces with natural features in the activity growth and development natural features in open space to cater to centres including surfaces that absorb Some of our open spaces are experiencing high levels of structured Population growth forecast for Victoria this increased population. and store moisture and provide shade will sporting and unstructured recreational is significant in the foreseeable future. help offset the build up of urban heat. This use, with demand exceeding the capacity Boroondara’s population is increasing and may include changing the design of some Climate change of the existing open space to meet the the demographics are changing which existing spaces and or the provision of existing demands for use. With forecast has implications on the quantity, use, In this time of climate change it is additional open space. population growth and increased urban distribution and design of open space. increasingly important to focus on sustainability in all aspects of open space, Sustainable water use densities, open space will need to change The estimated residential population of provision, design and management. The more extreme weather patterns that and expand to accommodate increased Boroondara in 2011 was approximately are forecast to result from climate change levels of use to adequately support 168,000 persons. This is forecast to grow Urban heat island (UHI) effect are likely to increase the prevalence of changing community health and wellbeing to about 184,000 persons by 2026, which This is the localised increase in severe storms contrasted with longer dry needs. is approximately a 10 per cent increase of temperature in urban areas due to the periods, as experienced recently with the around 16,000 people. More than 9,000 greater presence of non-porous surfaces 13 year drought in Victoria. With more new dwellings are forecast to be added that absorb heat during the day and recent research recommending to retain to the housing stock in Boroondara over then radiate heat during the evening moisture in the landscape to mitigate this same time period. Some precincts resulting in longer sustained periods of UHI effect, there is a need to investigate will change more than others and recent heat, particularly during the late afternoon sustainable water capture, treatment, trends have been towards higher density and evening. This can have significant storage and reuse in the urban landscape development in activity centres. The impact on human health and comfort including in open space. This has been precincts with the greatest change particularly in the elderly and frail due reflected in design and management forecast include Hawthorn, Balwyn, to heat exhaustion. Increased building recommendations along with the Kew, Camberwell, Balwyn North, Glen heights and urbanisation of the activity recommended sizes of open space that Iris and Hawthorn East. Additional to centres particularly has the potential to consider inclusion of these features in the residential population is the worker create warmer microclimates within the future open space. population which is estimated to increase by approximately 7,000 between 2011 and 2026. These will also be located in the activity centres and commercial corridors. With increasing urban densities there is a trend towards people having less private open space and a greater reliance on public open space to maintain their physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 7 6. Municipal-wide recommendations

Table 6A Assessment criteria for suitability of land area for public open space Additional open space Criteria Description Criteria to assess the need for • Where features of natural or additional open space cultural significance require Accessibility Physical access into the site including the inherent This strategy recommends some protection in public ownership. topography, at ground level (not elevated as part of a building) and ability to make the site safe and accessible additional open space in Boroondara • Where there is a lack of diversity of to people with limited mobility or with a disability. (Note - is likely to be needed in the open space type resulting in lack of refer also to Transport, Visibility, Condition and Location longer term if the forecast future accessibility for all. change occurs. In the majority of in this list of Criteria for other access related issues). Based on the criteria, the strategy locations the need for additional has identified where additional Local Adjoining land use The adjoining land has a positive influence contributing open space is catering to both and Small Local open spaces are (compatibility) to the recreational, ecological, social and cultural value the forecast population and the likely to be required as described in of the open space, without private appropriation of existing population, while in others the individual precinct descriptions in public open space, excessive traffic, noise, light spill or it is primarily for the forecast future Section 7 of this strategy. overshadowing. population. The following criteria has been used Criteria to assess the suitability Amenity Visual and passive amenity values relate to the influence to assess where additional open of land as open space open space has on the livability of neighbourhoods, space is required: All land proposed as new open providing visual relief from built form, the break open space provides from noise levels associated with traffic • Where people live or work without space will need to be suitable for and other urban land use activities and adequate levels any open space within safe walking this purpose as the quality and the of sunlight (a minimum of 3 hours of direct sunlight distance. location of the open space is as between 9am and 3pm during mid-winter and at least • Where a substantial increase in important as the size. The criteria is described in Table 6A. 5 hours of direct sunlight between 9am and 3pm on population is forecast and the September 22). existing open space is already well used and will be insufficient Council policies The land is subject to other planning processes and to provide for increased demands policies that may be consistent or inconsistent with all or placed on it by the forecast future part of the site becoming public open space. change. The existing physical condition of the land which may • Where there is an identified need for Condition a strategic link in the open space have inherent issues such as contamination or weed network. infestation, which have significant financial or safety implications for Council if the land becomes public open space.

8 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Municipal-wide recommendations (continued)

Table 6A (continued) Table 6A (cont)

Criteria Description Criteria Description Ecological Includes the site’s existing biodiversity values and Ownership Where the land is already in public ownership, there is the site’s potential to contribute to climate change more potential for Council to negotiate to obtain the adaptation. This includes the protection and land without the need for purchase. Where the land is enhancement of biodiversity values along with a site’s privately owned, there are methods for acquiring the land contribution to existing or future habitat corridors, through open space contributions. protection of mature canopy trees and other protection or Recreation The potential for the site to accommodate a range construction of other natural features that may contribute of organised, unstructured and informal recreational to urban heat mitigation. uses. These can include organised sports, play, sitting, Equity The Boroondara community should have reasonable walking, jogging, cycling exercising, informal games, access to public open space. picnicking and dog walking. Services/ Extent of services and easements that would affect Financial The cost to Council in obtaining, improving, managing Easements the development and use of the land as open space and maintaining the land as open space. including water supply, power supply, roadways, overhead structures, flood mitigation and drainage. Heritage character Indigenous and non-Indigenous values that could be enhanced and protected in the open space including Size The minimum size for the site to meet its intended natural features such as large canopy trees. These purpose, on its own or in combination with adjoining values will also influence the future use and design of the land. Refer to minimum size parcels for each type of open space. open space as follows: • Regional open space, unlimited Landscape Its contribution to the character and attractiveness of the character neighbourhood. • Municipal open space, minimum 3 hectares, subject to the proposed municipal recreation facility located in it. Location/Linkages The site’s contribution to the wider open space • Neighbourhood open space, minimum of 1 hectare. network including forming open space corridor links. • Local open space, minimum 0.26 and up to 0.99 This includes consideration of the other strategic hectares. planning projects in Council for forecast expansion of the population, and where it is appropriate, to provide • Small Local open space, minimum 0.03 and up to 0.25 connections. hectares, with a minimum width of 20 metres in at least one direction. Ongoing That Council can adequately resource the ongoing • Small Local Link space, with a minimum width of 5 maintenance and management and maintenance of the land. metres. management

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 9 Municipal-wide recommendations (continued)

Table 6A (continued)

Criteria Description Transport The range of transport options for residents to easily access the site including proximity to public transport, linear shared trails, path links and major roads.

Visibility The site’s visual prominence to maximise its use and contribution to the broader community. Generally, land is preferred which has at least two access points and local roads to two sides and is provided at natural surface level.

Method for acquiring/securing which can be used to identify additional additional open space open space beyond what is in the strategy It is likely that a range of methods will be if there is significantly more growth than required to secure additional open space anticipated and described. using a combination of the following: Open space contributions from future • as a land contribution as part of a future development subdivision The strategy has planned for the forecast • conversion of existing public land to future population change. The strategy open space recommendations include additional open • conversion of Council owned land to space, provision of facilities and upgrades open space to existing open space to meet the needs • purchase of undeveloped land of the forecast population. Refer to the Implementation Section of this strategy • purchase of developed land for a description of the contributions Indicative area in Indicative area in • inclusion of a Public Acquisition Overlay. framework. which future Local which future Small Changes to forecast development open space is Local open space is proposed, subject to proposed, subject to If there is substantial change to the rate of forecast the rate of forecast the location or intensity of forecast change. change. development in this strategy, the priorities for actions linked to the intensity and rate of development will be adjusted to reflect this. The changes will not alter the criteria, Diagram 6-1 Additional open space

10 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Municipal-wide recommendations (continued)

Improve community health and wellbeing afternoon and early evening, and information on the locations for proposed on weekends. additional Local and Small Local open In the longer term, opportunities will space and improvements to the quality of be investigated for the provision of two the existing network. additional areas that can accommodate Upgrades to existing open space intensive outdoor sports field training purposes (estimated to be approximately Open spaces will be upgraded to include 1 hectare in size). This is proposed in a diversity of facilities that encourage order to free up some of the natural turf people of all abilities and ages to sports fields in the existing Municipal participate in social and physical activities Open space encourages people outdoors Provide open space within easy open spaces for unstructured recreational and events. Additional trees will be for a range of reasons which can include: walking distance activities during peak times, and allow planted where appropriate to increase to participate in physical activity; to the sporting clubs to expand their training Some of the beneficial effects of having shade, natural character and canopy relax and unwind; to meet people and programs where required. The location open space nearby include: being outside cover in the open space. Within the local socialize; to play and have fun; to enjoy of these two open spaces is subject to in the fresh air; for children to explore and neighbourhood the aim is to achieve being outside in the fresh air and the sun; further investigation with one likely to be play; to exercise; to relax and unwind; different open space character types so to stroll; and to enjoy being in a natural required in the north and one relatively and to have access to a natural setting there is a diversity of spaces to choose setting. These reasons listed are not all central in the municipality. for people living in areas of higher urban from. necessarily satisfied in the one open density. As urban densities increase and The sense of open space without the space. The Strategy is about improving our lifestyles change, the need to be the diversity of the existing open space clutter of built form and infrastructure is within an easy walk of open space to be highly valued by the community. Upgrades system and adding to it where needed outside is increasing. to better meet the aim of improving to open space will include the value of accessibility for all. This strategy recommends upgrading the open parkland character in the design some of the existing areas of Small guidelines for future concept master plans Increasing the diversity of use of Local and Local open space, particularly and facility upgrades including building Municipal open space within and nearby activity centres. The and sports facility upgrades in open One of the key values of the open space strategy also identifies locations where the space. network is the excellent sporting facilities provision of some of additional Local and and in particular the sporting fields Small Local open spaces in and around located throughout the municipality, which the activity centres may be required in the are well used for structured sporting use future to meet recent or forecast future and informally by the community. There population change. are locations where the sporting fields are Refer to the Precinct recommendations in high demand particularly during the late in Section 7 of this strategy for more

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 11 Municipal-wide recommendations (continued)

Environment and sustainability • Strengthen the biodiversity values where particularly where the open space appropriate in the Outer Circle Linear provides a respite from heat wave Park. conditions as experienced in recent • Prepare an Urban Forest Strategy to years. facilitate increased presence of mature • Investigate the provision of additional canopy trees where appropriate in the open space in areas that are forecast public realm including in public open to receive increased urban densities, to space. off-set the build up of urban heat. • Improve pedestrian and cycle access Climate change to open space to reduce reliance on Open space can mitigate some impacts vehicle use as the means of transport to Biodiversity of climate change in the future, and this reach open space. • Ensure adequate area is provided to strategy has identified the following incorporate sustainable water re-use Biodiversity values in open space are • Increase the set back of recreational relevant actions: infrastructure features when planning for guided by the Urban Biodiversity Strategy infrastructure from the waterways, and designing new open space. and other related assessments. This • Increase the presence of natural where feasible, to allow them to adapt strategy recognises these plans and features in open space including large as required to forecast increased • Reduce emissions in open space has also identified some key actions to broad spreading canopy trees, moisture severity of storm events. by utilising the most energy efficient support and improve biodiversity values in absorbing surfaces and sustainable products in facility and open space open space including: capture and reuse of water in open Sustainability design. • Advocate for relevant Victorian space to off-set urban heat island effect. Provision, design and management • Design new and existing facilities government agencies to secure • Investigate the provision of additional of open space can improve meeting to minimise energy consumption by additional public land along the Yarra open space to increase accessibility Council’s sustainability objectives. Some incorporating ecologically sustainable River as identified in the existing Public to open space for the community, of these are included in the climate design (ESD) principles into all future Acquisition Overlays and expand the change section above, and others include: designs including passive solar public open space corridor. This will • Continue to support existing programs orientation and design. allow access to and improvement to reduce reliance on potable water • Use sustainable materials in future open of biodiversity values as well as for open space management and space design including consideration recreational values. maintenance. of their source, full lifecycle cost and • Continue to strengthen the habitat • Integrate stormwater capture, treatment ongoing maintenance. corridor values along the waterways and reuse as a key source of sustainable in Boroondara with revegetation of the water in future open space design and riparian corridors and increasing the upgrades where appropriate. width of these where appropriate.

12 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 7. Precinct recommendations

Introduction Precincts centres acknowledging that The open space analysis has been workers use open space Drawing key for the precinct undertaken at a precinct level to allow during the day at work and diagrams in Sections 7.1 to 7.12 it is important for their more detailed assessment of the existing of this strategy open space needs. 12 precincts are health and wellbeing. included based on the suburb boundaries. They are included in alphabetical order as Implementation Existing open space follows: of precinct actions Restricted open space • Ashburton The actions shown on the precinct diagrams • Balwyn/Mont Albert have been shown with higher Activity centres • Balwyn North and lower priorities. This is Neighbourhood Centres • Camberwell to provide guidance on the • Canterbury expected sequence for Higher priority actions • Deepdene commencement of them. This • Glen Iris sequence may change pending Lower priority actions • Hawthorn allocation of suitable funding and Sub-precinct for proposed • Hawthorn East resources along with the actual rate and location of forecast future change. Local open space • Kew Many actions will require more detailed • Kew East analysis before prior to implementation Sub-precinct for proposed Small Local open space • Surrey Hills and will be staged and delivered over a number of years. As noted in the diagram Diagram 7-1 shows the precinct Grey Actions that are subject to future key below, actions that shown in grey text text population change. Delivery will be boundaries and names. are subject to future population change linked to the rate of change. The precinct analysis is based on and delivery will be linked to the rate of Council’s strategic work for its activity change. centres, local centres and residential neighbourhoods, which identify where future development and population change is forecast to occur. This analysis Diagram 7-1 Precinct locations has considered both the employment population forecasts and residential forecasts associated with the activity

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 13 7.1 Ashburton

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: Gardiners Creek flows along the southern Open space is generally well distributed in boundary of Ashburton and is a key Ashburton with no identified key gaps in Walking distance access to existing open 36.71 ha of environmental and open space feature its distribution that need to be addressed space (gaps shown in white) open space of the precinct. The Gardiners Creek Trail in relation to safe and easy walking extends both upstream and downstream access to open space. The only gap in of the precinct and links key areas of distribution of open space is a continuous 6.1% open space including Markham Reserve, linear open space corridor on the north 6.1% of all Dorothy Laver East and Dorothy Laver side of Gardiners Creek to achieve open space West Reserves. Markham Reserve biodiversity improvement and recreational in Boroondara has recently received a major upgrade access along the waterway corridor. including a regional playground. Dorothy Most of the future population change Laver East Reserve is a structured 12.4% is forecast to occur in the Ashburton 12.4% of the sporting reserve and Dorothy Laver and the Ashwood Neighbourhood total suburb West provides structured sport and Centres. Upgrades to open space are area is open informal facilities including a picnic area recommended to better cater to the space overlooking the creek. existing and forecast population needs The open space system along Gardiners including increasing the diversity of Creek is discontinuous with private land facilities and open space character. Open space use: extending down to the Creek in some Other recommendations include locations and in others, the open space upgrading and providing additional Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space reserve is very narrow and without space informal recreation facilities, improving within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: for a trail. The Anniversary Trail along the access through the open spaces and Alamein Railway Line and the southern 1. Ashburton Park 1. Other – Outside City of Boroondara improving environmental values along the end of the Outer Circle Linear Park 2. Gardiners Creek Trail 2. Gardiners Creek Trail linear reserves and waterway corridor. provides north-south connectivity through 3. Ferndale Park 3. Outer Circle Linear Park High priority upgrades are required the precinct and is popular for a range of at Dorothy Laver Reserve East and activities including cycling, walking and Ashburton Park. jogging. Other key open spaces outside the linear networks include Ashburton Park, Warner Reserve and Watson Park, providing a variety of structured sporting facilities and some unstructured recreation and informal use.

14 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Ashburton (continued)

Consider preparation of a concept master plan to upgrade informal recreational facilities including walking trail, seating and picnic facilities, given proximity to two activity centres

Consider preparation and implementation of a concept master plan to upgrade the neighbourhood level facilities Consider preparation and including picnic, seating, path implementation of a concept access and shelter master plan to upgrade appropriate levels of water access in consultation with Melbourne Water

Continue to maintain and in the longer term prepare a concept master plan to integrate informal Provide additional unstructured use into this sporting reserve recreation and informal use

Continue to implement the Consider preparation of a existing concept master plan to concept master plan to upgrade increase diversity of recreational access paths, seating and facilities and environmental values improve environmental values Minor upgrade to provide path access and seating

Minor upgrade to improve path access, seating and environmental Minor upgrade to improve values along the waterway path access and seating

Continue to maintain and Improve environmental values Drawing Key improve environmental values adjacent to Gardiners Creek adjoining Gardiners Creek Higher priority projects Lower priority projects

0 500m 1km

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 15 7.2 Balwyn/Mont Albert

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: Maranoa Gardens is a unique Regional Open space is well distributed in the open space in Boroondara containing a west, south and east of the precinct with Walking distance access to existing open 18.16 ha of native plant botanical collection that is open space in the adjoining suburbs space (gaps shown in white). Gap Areas open space visited by people from all over Melbourne being easily accessible to the south and shown with label. and the second most popular open space east via the local street network. There after Hays Paddock in the municipality. are gaps in the provision of open space 3.0% The high quality attention to and in the centre of the precinct, both east 3.0% of all maintenance of this open space means it and west of Balwyn Road and north of open space is well appreciated. Beckett Park directly Whitehorse Road. These gaps are located in Boroondara adjoins Maranoa Gardens and contains in the catchment of the Neighbourhood remnant indigenous woodland including Centre that is forecast to receive the overstorey and ground storey vegetation, majority of the future population change. If 4.1% 4.1% of the which contributes to its significance at a this forecast change occurs, a new Small total suburb municipal-wide level. Local open space is proposed to the west area is open Balwyn Park is the other Municipal of Balwyn Road in Gap Area B-1. Similarly space open space in Balwyn, providing if the forecast future population change structured sporting facilities including occurs, Gap Area B-2 proposes either an sports fields for football and cricket and additional Local open space positioned so that people to the north and south of the Open space use: tennis facilities. Located in the Balwyn Neighbourhood Centre, it will require gap area can reach it, or alternatively two improvement to better meet the open Small Local open spaces with one located Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space in the north and the second close to the within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: space needs of the existing and forecast community. A series of smaller linked Neighbourhood Centre. 1. Maranoa Gardens 1. Hays Paddock open spaces continue to the north-west Higher priority actions for the existing 2. Beckett Park 2. Koonung Creek Reserve along the Glass Creek tributary from King open space include upgrades to 3. Macleay Park 3. Outer Circle Linear Park Street Reserve and Ropley Ave Reserve Balwyn Park to increase the diversity of north through to Stradbroke Park in Kew facilities and appeal for the existing and East. A range of smaller open spaces forecast community and a Conservation are distributed through the precinct and Management Plan for Beckett Park to people travel outside the precinct to use guide future management and upgrades. other open space nearby.

16 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Balwyn/Mont Albert (continued)

Minor upgrade to provide path Minor upgrade to improve connection through the open space diversity of facilities Minor upgrade to improve diversity Minor upgrade to cater for the needs of facilities, accessibility and cater of the existing and forecast population for forecast increased use

Minor upgrade to provide a seating area

Prepare a conservation management plan to guide Investigate new Small Local open future upgrades to improve space in proximity of the Balwyn picnic facilities and review Neighbourhood Centre for forecast vehicle access and car parking and existing population Minor upgrade to improve diversity of facilities and use

Drawing Key

Higher priority projects Prepare a conservation management Lower priority projects plan to guide management of Sub-precinct for heritage values in this reserve proposed Local open space Prepare a concept master plan to Investigate provision of either a new Local open Sub-precinct for design facilities catering to existing space with good connectivity to the Balwyn proposed and forecast population needs Neighbourhood Centre and the population to Small Local open space the north or two Small Local open spaces - Grey Actions that are subject one to the north and one closer to the Balwyn text to future population Neighbourhood Activity Centre for both forecast change. Delivery will be and existing population linked to the rate of change.

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 17 7.3 Balwyn North

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: The extensive open space system Other smaller open spaces are distributed associated with Koonung Creek and the through the precinct. Walking distance access to existing open 103.02 ha of Yarra River along the northern boundary space (gaps shown in white). Gap areas shown The northern and southern areas of open space of Balwyn North are key features of with label. Balwyn North are well provided for with this precinct. Although Koonung Creek open space however there are some is highly modified and contained in an gaps in open space distribution in the underground pipe for much of its length, 17.2% central area and towards the south-east. 17.2% of all the linked open space system associated Doncaster, Bulleen and Balwyn Roads open space with it including Koonung Creek Reserve, form major barriers to easy and safe in Boroondara Winfield Road Reserve, Boroondara walking access to open space. North of Tennis Centre and Freeway Golf Course, Doncaster Road, Gap Areas BA-1 and provides a valuable recreational and 11.4% BA-2 will be addressed with provision overstorey habitat corridor. The Koonung of additional Small Local open spaces 11.4% of the Creek Trail connects these open spaces total suburb if forecast future change occurs in the with a range of informal activities and catchments of local centres. South area is open environmental features including wetlands space of Doncaster Road, Gap Areas BA-5 with boardwalk system, revegetation with and BA-6 are in the catchments of native and indigenous vegetation, seating, activity centres and if the forecast future BMX facility, playground, and a range Open space use: population growth occurs, an additional of walking paths. The shared trail links Local open space is proposed. through Columba Street and Musca Street Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space Reserves and Yarra Flats Reserve to the Higher priority upgrades are proposed at within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: Main Yarra Trail. Columba Street Reserve, Macleay Park 1. Koonung Creek Reserve 1. Hays Paddock and Myrtle Park to address the needs of The major sporting precinct associated 2. Macleay Park 2. Maranoa Gardens the existing and forecast population. with Gordon Barnard Reserve, Hislop 3. Greythorn Park 3. Koonung Creek Reserve Park, Macleay Park and Myrtle Park in the south of Balwyn North provides municipal facilities that are extremely

well used. Macleay Park is the most popular of these and provides structured sporting, unstructured recreation facilities and informal use of the sports fields. The elevated character of Greythorn Park offers expansive views, environmental character and structured sporting use.

18 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Balwyn North (continued)

Minor upgrades including path around the oval and other facilities Upgrade to improve provision of to cater for increased use Minor upgrades to provide additional neighbourhood level unstructured seats and ongoing improvement to and informal recreational facilities for environmental values the forecast and existing population

Minor upgrades to improve provision of neighbourhood level unstructured and informal recreational facilities for existing Investigate new Small Local open and forecast population space to address the needs of both the existing and forecast Investigate new Small Local open population space to address the needs of both the existing and forecast Minor upgrade population

Drawing Key

Higher priority projects Lower priority projects Sub-precinct for Continue implementation proposed of existing master plan Local open space Sub-precinct for Investigate new Local open proposed space within walking distance Small Local open space of the Balwyn East Centre to address gap areas Grey Actions that are subject text to future population Prepare a concept master plan change. Delivery will be for these two parks to investigate linked to the rate improvements to access and Minor upgrade to install Implement remaining actions of change. facilities while retaining structured perimeter walking path from existing master plan sporting use for the existing and and upgrade unstructured 0 500m 1km forecast population recreational facilities

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 19 7.4 Camberwell

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: In Camberwell, the former Outer Circle people need to travel further than an railway and some of the waterway easy walk of their home or workplace Walking distance 41.94 ha of corridors link together the key areas to reach open space. The majority of access to existing open space of open space. Back Creek, which is these gap areas coincide with areas open space (gaps a tributary of Gardiners Creek, flows of forecast change with one of the key shown in white). Gap in a south-westerly direction through locations being the Camberwell Junction areas shown with label. 7% the precinct linking the popular open Activity Centre. Higher density residential 7% of all spaces of Lynden Park and Through and non-residential development in and open space Road Reserve with a shared trail. Frog around this centre is forecast to continue. in Boroondara Hollow and Willison Park are linked via Additional Local and Small Local open the Outer Circle Linear Park and Alamein space is recommended to cater for the Railway Line in a generally north south forecast change and provide for the 5.4% 5.4% of the alignment through the precinct. Other key existing population. Ongoing change is total suburb open spaces located outside the linear forecast to continue in some of the smaller area is open networks include the sporting reserves neighbourhood centres including Hartwell, space of Highfield Park and Camberwell Sports Middle Camberwell and Burwood Village. Ground, and Read Gardens with its Additional Local and Small Local open established heritage garden character spaces are required in some of the other catering for unstructured recreation gap areas in the southern area of the Open space use: and informal use. Camberwell is an precinct for both the existing and forecast established leafy garden suburb with population. Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space predominantly detached dwellings within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: Upgrades are identified for a range of dating from the late 1800s, through to existing open spaces to improve the 1. Lynden Park 1. Wattle Park the Edwardian era and contemporary diversity of facilities and character of 2. Through Road Reserve 2. Gardiners Creek Trail buildings including higher density these spaces, encouraging informal and 3. Frog Hollow Reserve 3. Maranoa Gardens dwellings and apartments. Street trees unstructured recreational use by a broad contribute to the landscape character with cross section of the population. These a mix of native and exotic species. include Lynden Park, Willison Park, The eastern and central areas of Fordham Gardens, Camberwell Sports Camberwell are generally well provided Ground and Read Gardens. with open space, including linear links to open space in adjoining suburbs to the north and east. Open space is not as well distributed in the southern and western areas in the precinct, where

20 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Camberwell (continued)

Prepare conservation management plan to guide management of existing values

Investigate new Small Local Minor upgrade open space within 200m east of Burke Road Minor upgrade to improve informal recreation facilities Investigate new Local open space to cater to existing and forecast population Consider preparing a design plan to guide minor upgrade Investigate solutions to reduce traffic noise or establish a new Continue to maintain and Minor upgrade to improve provision replacement Small Local open undertake minor upgrades of informal recreation facilities space east of these reserves Major upgrade Minor upgrade to Investigate new Small Local open improve park facilities space to cater to forecast Investigate improvement to residential and worker population habitat connectivity values Continue management of heritage values and undertake Minor upgrade minor upgrade Minor upgrade to improve informal Upgrade to improve informal recreation facilities and habitat links recreation facilities Drawing Key Continue to implement and review existing master plan to Higher priority projects investigate provision of additional informal recreational use Lower priority projects Sub-precinct for Investigate new Local open proposed space to cater for existing Local open space and forecast population Sub-precinct for Prepare conservation management proposed plan to guide management of Small Local open space existing heritage values Grey Actions that are subject Investigate new Local open text to future population space within safe walking Review and update existing master change. Delivery will be distance of existing and plan to meet the needs of the existing Minor upgrade linked to the rate forecast population and forecast population of change. Minor upgrade Investigate new Small Local Continue to maintain and undertake minor Major upgrade to provide open space within walking distance 0 500m 1km upgrade to cater for forecast new population a range of neighbourhood of the Burwood Activity Centre facilities Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 21 7.5 Canterbury

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: The Outer Circle Linear Park (OCLP) and Myrtle Road Reserve for its exotic forms a north-south open space spine plant species. 17.93 ha of through Canterbury, with the Anniversary Open space is well provided in the open space Trail connecting some key open spaces western part of Canterbury. The central including Boroondara Park, Shenley and eastern areas of Canterbury have Ground and Riversdale Park. The some gaps in open space including to 3.0% heritage and formal garden character the north of Canterbury Road and west 3.0% of all of Canterbury Gardens is located on an of Balwyn Road referred to as CT-1 and open space easterly open space spine that extends to south of Canterbury Road and east of in Boroondara Matlock Reserve. Canterbury Gardens is the railway referred to as CT-2. Gap Walking distance the second most popular open space after Area CT-1 coincides with some forecast the OCLP, recognised for its ambience 5.7% access to existing future population change around the 5.7% of the open space (gaps and beauty. The stand of remnant Canterbury Village Neighbourhood Centre total suburb shown in white). indigenous woodland in Belmont Park and an additional Small Local open area is open Gap areas shown and lack of formal facilities celebrates space is recommended if the forecast space with label. its natural values as a contrast from the population change occurs. For Gap Area exotic character of other open spaces CT-2, improved walkability in the street in Canterbury. Located in the north east, network is recommended to assist with John August Reserve has an undulating Open space use: overcoming the barrier that the railway informal parkland character. forms to Canterbury Gardens. Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space Structured sporting facilities in Canterbury Higher priority actions for the existing within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: include the tennis club in Shenley Ground open space include preparing a and the hockey field at Matlock Reserve. 1. Outer Circle Linear Park 1. Hays Paddock conservation management plan for The closest natural turf sports fields 2. Canterbury Gardens 2. Maranoa Gardens Canterbury Gardens to guide the ongoing within walking distance of Canterbury 3. Boroondara Park 3. Studley Park management of its heritage values, are Riversdale Park in Camberwell upgrade works for John August Reserve and Canterbury Sports Field in Surrey to address forecast future population Hills. A range of Local and Small Local change primarily in Balwyn, and major open spaces are located along the two upgrades to Warburton Road Land if linear open space spines, and provide a the change occurs. Medium priority diversity of unstructured recreation and works include a concept master plan for informal facilities including play areas, Boroondara Park to determine the future picnic and seating. Some of these spaces use for the disused railway and substation also have heritage character with Colville buildings in the park and minor upgrades Reserve noted for its mature exotic trees at Norway Park.

22 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Canterbury (continued)

Minor upgrades to improve path access and improve nature conservation values by encouraging recruitment of indigenous overstorey species to expand the open woodland character Investigate new Small Local open space in proximity to activity centres for the existing and forecast population Minor upgrade to provide additional seats and improve weed management and environmental values Prepare landscape design plan to guide design of new facilities including catering Minor upgrade to provide to increased levels of use by the forecast additional seating population

Continue to maintain and investigate opening tennis courts for community use

Prepare a concept master plan to Minor upgrade to improve facilities to determine future use of existing cater for older age groups disused buildings in the park Prepare a conservation management plan to guide ongoing management of the gardens Major upgrades to this open space to provide facilities that meet the Minor upgrade to install a path link local community needs of existing through the reserve and forecast population Drawing Key

Higher priority projects Lower priority projects Sub-precinct for proposed Small Local open space Grey Actions that are subject to text future population change. Delivery will be linked to the rate of change.

0 500m 1km

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 23 7.6 Deepdene

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: Located centrally, the Outer Circle Linear Canterbury is within walking distance of Park (OCLP) runs in a generally north- Deepdene Park and is also well used by Walking distance access to existing open 6.9 ha of south alignment through the west of the local residents. space (gaps shown in white). open space Deepdene and provides good off-road There is good distribution of open space shared trail connectivity to the open space in Deepdene with the OCLP providing north and south of the precinct. The open space connectivity to the north and 1.2% Abercrombie Street section of the OCLP south. The forecast future population 1.2% of all provides a diversity of uses including open change is likely to occur in the Deepdene open space in grassed areas, playground and picnic Neighbourhood Centre. Preparation Boroondara area. The OCLP is the most frequently and implementation of a conservation used open space. Located within the management plan and concept master Deepdene Activity Centre, Deepdene 8.1% plan for Deepdene Park is proposed 8.1% of the total Park provides sporting facilities including to improve the quality and diversity suburb area is sports fields that are also used informally, of facilities including the unstructured open space a playground and picnic area along with recreation and informal use, catering to established trees that contribute to its the existing and future population change parkland character. Belmont Park in if this occurs. Minor upgrade to integrate Open space use: existing facilities and Minor upgrade including improve their use additional seating Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: 1. Outer Circle Linear Park 1. Maranoa Gardens 2. Deepdene Park 2. Alexandra Gardens Prepare a conservation management plan to 3. Belmont Park 3. Beckett Park guide future upgrade to improve unstructured and informal recreation use and improve structured sporting use where required

Drawing Key

Higher priority projects Lower priority projects

0 500m 1km

24 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 7.7 Glen Iris

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: The key open space feature in Glen Reserve which are predominantly Iris is the variety of linked linear open structured sporting reserves. Walking distance access to existing open 51.38 ha of space networks along the waterways space (gaps shown in white). Gap areas The linear open space networks in Glen open space and the railway. The most extensive shown with label. Iris provide a well distributed system of system is along Gardiners Creek, which open space through the precinct. Some is connected via the Gardiners Creek Trail gaps in continuity of open space are 8.6% on both sides of the creek to overcome identified along Gardiners Creek, which 8.6% of all sections where private land extends to are difficult to overcome due to the open space the edge of the waterway. The shared trail patterns of urban development. Gardiners in Boroondara links key areas of open space including Creek Trail crosses between the Cities of Eric Raven Reserve, Nettleton Park, Boroondara and Stonnington to create a Howard Dawson Reserve and Burke Road 9.6% continuous shared trail along the length of 9.6% of the South Reserve. the creek. Away from the creek, two gap total suburb Back Creek is a major tributary that flows areas are identified west of the railway area is open into Gardiners Creek at Nettleton Park north and south of High Street Road, space and forms a continuous linear open space in proximity to the High Street Road system. The linear open space diverges Neighbourhood Centre where population at Ferndale Park to extend north towards growth is forecast to occur in the future. Open space use: Toorak Road via the Back Creek Reserve Upgrades to the adjoining Eric Raven and to the south east towards Summerhill Reserve will cater for the needs of the Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space Park along what is known as the Ferndale existing and forecast population in this within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: Trail. These networks of linear open activity centre. spaces provide a combination of natural 1. Ferndale Park 1. Gardiners Creek Trail The majority of the future population waterway and riparian values, structured 2. Gardiners Creek Trail 2. Hays Paddock change is forecast to occur at Tooronga sporting use and informal recreational 3. Summerhill Park 3. Other – Outside City of Boroondara Village, and the remainder located facilities including picnic areas and throughout the suburb. The provision playgrounds. of unstructured and informal facilities The Ferndale Trail system connects to the in some of the larger open spaces that Outer Circle Linear Park or Anniversary currently cater for structured sporting Trail, providing north-south connectivity use is required to meet both existing and through the precinct between the Main forecast future population needs if this Yarra Trail in the north and Gardiners change occurs. These upgrades include Creek Trail in the south. Other key provision of walking paths to improve individual open spaces in Glen Iris include access within the reserves, provision of Hartwell Sports Ground and Burwood shelters, seats and picnic facilities.

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 25 Glen Iris (continued)

Continue to investigate establishing Minor upgrades to improve a link to future adjoining open space unstructured facilities and improving informal recreation including seats activities Prepare a landscape plan Minor upgrades to improve to guide improvements to unstructured recreational facilities the linear open space for the existing and future population if forecast change occurs

Investigate potential to improve landscape values

Minor upgrades to improve unstructured recreational facilities including seats in the long term

Minor upgrades to provide seating and additional trees

Minor upgrade Prepare a concept master plan to to provide guide upgrades to improve access into additional Major upgrades to picnic the open space including the existing seats along area seating and other and future population in nearby walking track informal facilities to centres if forecast change occurs improve accessibility Drawing Key Prepare a landscape design Higher priority projects plan to determine appropriate future facilities for this reserve Lower priority projects

0 500m 1km

26 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 7.8 Hawthorn

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: The Yarra River and Gardiners Creek values that will continue to inform future flow along the western side of Hawthorn, design and management of these open 57.21 ha of shaping its environmental and open space spaces in the future. open space character. The Hawthorn Road Bridge on Glenferrie Road West Hawthorn Bridge Road was the first formal crossing Neighbourhood Centres on Burwood of the Yarra. St James Park, along with Road have more recently been 9.6% Creswick Park and Yarra Bank Reserve experiencing change and this is forecast 9.6% of all are some of the earliest open spaces to continue in the future. The majority open space established in the city in the 1850s. Key of the future population in Hawthorn is in Boroondara open spaces along the Yarra include forecast to occur within these centres. Pridmore Park, Fairview Park and Yarra Walking distance If this forecast future population change Bank Reserve. Structured sporting facilites access to existing occurs, additional Local and Small Local 9.7% are located at Fairview Park, with others 9.7% of the open space (gaps open spaces are proposed to address the providing for unstructured recreation, total suburb shown in white). Gap Areas and forecast increased urban including launching points for kayaking area is open Gap areas shown densities. Additionally it is recommended and rowing. Unfortunately the confluence space with label. the former Spur railway corridor (LE of the Yarra River and Gardiners Creek is Bray Reserve) be extended to improve in private ownership with no open space connectivity between Hawthorn and connectivity on the Boroondara side Open space use: Kew Junction Neighbourhood Centres between HA Smith Reserve and Fairview in the future. If forecast change occurs, Park. HA Smith Reserve combined with high priority actions for the existing open Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space Patterson Reserve provides an extensive within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: space include upgrades to Pridmore sporting precinct adjacent to Gardiners Park, Hull Street Reserve and Hawthorn 1. Central Gardens 1. Fairview Park Creek including sports fields, cycling Library Reserve. Investigate integrating 2. St James Park 2. Hays Paddock velodrome and synthetic hockey fields. unstructured recreational use into MCC 3. Grace Park 3. Studley Park Away from the waterway corridors Bowling Club & Hawthorn tennis site Glenferrie Oval is a key sporting facility given its location within the Glenferrie and the original home of the Hawthorn Road MAC. A number of high priority Football Club. Auburn Quarry provides conservation management plans are significant sports facilities as well. Central proposed to guide future management Gardens, located in the Glenferrie Road and upgrade works including for St James Neighbourhood Centre, Grace Park Park, Creswick Street Reserve, Grace and Morang Road Reserve provide for Park and LE Bray Reserve. unstructured recreation and informal use. Many of the open spaces have heritage

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 27 Investigate the need Investigate a new Small Local open Hawthorn (continued) for a conservation space to provide open space link management plan to Kew Junction Activity Centre Investigate the need for a conservation Review canoe launch ramp Minor management plan to guide future upgrades location and consider relocation upgrade Convert at least part of car park Prepare a concept master plan to open space to improve links to improve all-ability access, Implement existing Concept Master Plan to unstructured recreational use provide new informal recreational facilities and environmental values Investigate new Small Local open space to cater primarily to the needs Prepare a conservation management of the forecast population plan and review public vehicle access and parking in this reserve Upgrade to expand play facility Investigate redesign of this open Prepare a conservation management space to improve access and use plan to guide design of a more useable open space Upgrade to cater for young adult and older age group needs Prepare a conservation management Prepare a conservation management plan and investigate provision of plan to ensure protection of existing additional informal recreational facilities values and guide appropriate management of future increased use Investigate new Local open space in proximity Investigate provision of unstructured to the Glenferrie Road Major Activity Centre recreational use to cater for forecast Improve accessibility and population environmental values Investigate new Small Local open space for Upgrade to cater to open space both existing and forecast population Drawing Key needs of the forecast population Investigate new Small Local open space Higher priority projects Investigate heritage value of stone for both existing and forecast population stairs and upgrade as required Lower priority projects Investigate reducing impact of traffic Sub-precinct for Prepare a conservation management noise and achieve an open space link proposed plan to guide future improvements to to MCC Bowling and Hawthorn Local open space environmental values Tennis Reserve

Sub-precinct for Improve riparian zone values and proposed upgrade reserve when it is linked Minor upgrade to provide additional Small Local open space to the linear open space system seating and screen planting Grey Actions that are subject Implement existing concept master text to future population plan including improvements to change. Delivery will be unstructured recreation facilities linked to the rate of change. Review design of this open space to meet the needs of 0 500m 1km the local community

28 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 7.9 Hawthorn East

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: Hawthorn East has a range of large The future population change for open spaces with uniquely different Hawthorn East is forecast to be in 22.2 ha of Walking distance access to existing open characters. Anderson Park includes a the Neighbourhood Centres, with open space space (gaps shown in white). Gap areas range of structured sport and unstructured the main ones being the Tooronga shown with label. recreation facilities and activities, with Road Commercial Corridor (CC), the the elevation of this reserve providing Camberwell Junction activity centre and 3.7% expansive views to the city skyline. Cato the Burwood Road CC. Major roads and 3.7% of all Park is a smaller reserve to the south railways create a number of significant open space of Anderson Park and has remnant barriers to safe pedestrian access within in Boroondara indigenous woodland providing a this precinct and the gap analysis reflects contrasting character. Fritsch Holzer this. A number of gaps are identified in Park is a more recently established open the vicinity of the Camberwell Junction 6.4% 6.4% of the space on a former brickworks site and activity centre and the Burwood Road total suburb is popular for walking and dog walking. CC. If the forecast future change occurs, area is open The adjoining Swinburne Recreation then additional Local and Small Local space Reserve has sporting fields and if the open spaces are proposed to address forecast future population increase in the Gap Areas and forecast increased the Camberwell Junction activity centre urban densities. It is also recommended occurs, these two reserves are likely to the Gardiners Creek linear open space Open space use: receive increased levels of use over the corridor be widened in the vicinity of the next 10 to 15 years. Tooronga Road CC. Most frequently visited open space within walking distance North of the railway, two sporting reserves Higher priority actions for the existing of home: including Victoria Road Reserve and open space include upgrades to Fritsch Rathmines Reserve both integrate informal Holzer Park and Swinburn Recreation 1. Anderson Park and unstructured use. The established Reserve, along with upgrades to 2. Fritsch Holzer Park trees in both the reserves contribute to informal and unstructured recreation 3. Central Gardens their character and use. facilities at Anderson Park. Preparation of Conservation Management Plans Most frequently visited for Anderson Park and Victoria Road open space beyond walking Reserve are proposed to inform future distance of home: management and design of these open 1. Fairview Park spaces. 2. Yarra Trail 3. Central Gardens

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 29 Hawthorn East (continued)

Prepare a landscape design plan to guide provision of informal recreation facilities in conjunction with conservation management plan for Rathmines Reserve

Prepare a conservation management plan to guide management of this Investigate the need for a conservation open space and future design of Sir management plan and continue to William Angliss Reserve maintain for sporting use Investigate new Small Local open space to cater for both existing and forecast population needs in Prepare a concept master plan to the Camberwell Junction activity centre upgrade and provide a diversity of Investigate new Small Local open space to cater unstructured recreational facilities for for both existing and forecast population needs existing and forecast population in the Camberwell Junction activity centre Prepare a concept master plan to provide Investigate new Local open space to the structured and some unstructured sporting west of the Burke Road retail area for use in the Camberwell Activity Centre for the existing and forecast population existing and forecast population Continue to maintain and upgrade as required to meet future safety and New Local open space in the vicinity design standards of the Riversdale Activity Centre towards Auburn Road Drawing Key Investigate new Local open space to cater for both existing and Higher priority projects forecast population needs Lower priority projects Sub-precinct for proposed Local open space Investigate need for a conservation Sub-precinct for management plan to guide upgrade to proposed unstructured recreational facilities and Upgrade informal recreation facilities Small Local open space natural open space features as required to cater to forecast Grey Actions that are subject increased use text to future population change. Delivery will be Negotiate for an increased width to the linear linked to the rate open space as part of the redevelopment of of change. the former gasworks site to create a Local open space adjacent to the shared trail for

forecast population needs* 0 500m 1km

30 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 7.10 Kew

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: The Yarra River flows along the western Reserve provide a diversity of characters and part of the northern boundary of and use and are distributed through the 166.91 ha of Walking distance access to existing open Kew and is a key habitat and open space precinct, along with some smaller open open space space (gaps shown in white). Gap areas corridor for the precinct and metropolitan spaces located around the Kew Junction shown with label. Melbourne. The major open space activity centre. reserves in Kew are located along the The majority of open space in Kew is Yarra River and include Studley Park, located along the Yarra River corridor and 28% of all 28% Yarra Bend Park and Chandler Park. the OCLP to the north-east. There are open space These open spaces provide unique areas some gaps in the provision of open space in Boroondara of remnant bushland of national biological in the central area, including some within significance with a highly valued habitat the Kew Junction activity centre where corridor on both sides of the river. The 15.9% future population growth is forecast to 15.9% of the established shared trail along the Yarra occur. If the forecast population change total suburb River links these key open spaces and occurs, additional Local and Small Local area is open provides access to a range of structured, open spaces are proposed to address space unstructured recreation and informal uses some of the gap areas along with as well as access points across the river upgrades to some existing open spaces to to the extensive open space system on cater for the increase in use and achieve a the western side of the Yarra River and Open space use: balance between provision of facilities and Merri Creek. natural areas. Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space The Outer Circle Linear Park (OCLP) High priority upgrades are proposed for within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: provides linear connectivity in a south- the OCLP High Street and Normanby east direction along the northern 1. Victoria Park 1. Hays Paddock Road sections in proximity to the Harp boundary linking the Main Yarra Trail to 2. Alexandra Gardens 2. Studley Park Village Neigbourhood Centre. Preparation the Anniversary Trail via the Chandler 3. Outer Circle Linear Park 3. Maranoa Gardens of a conservation management plan Highway. Away from the Yarra River, for Alexandra Gardens to guide its Victoria Park, established in the 1850s, ongoing management is proposed, provides structured and unstructured along with upgrades to Eglinton, Foley recreational facilities including ovals, and Sir William Street Reserves. Other tennis, well established exotic and nature high priorities include preparation of trees and play/picnic facilities. Alexandra a conservation management plan for Gardens is also popular for its formal Victoria Park, and upgrades to Reservoir heritage and public garden ambience Reserve. and relaxation. Eglinton Reserve, Foley Reserve, Kellett Reserve and Reservoir

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 31 Kew (continued) Minor upgrade to provide additional informal facilities Investigate new Local open space in Kew Junction activity centre catchment for existing and forecast community Continue to support Parks Victoria upgrades to habitat corridor values, Minor upgrade of facilities cultural heritage values and improve Upgrade to primarily cater trail links to forecast population in the Minor upgrade to improve character and use Willsmere Neighbourhood Centre Investigate potential heritage values and Minor upgrade to improve car prepare a vegetation management plan parking and landscape character

Continue to support Parks Victoria Upgrade facilities to increase diversity improvements to environmental, heritage of use for existing and forecast and recreational values of the park population in Kew Junction AC Upgrades to complement those in Asquith Street OCLP as a connected system of open space Prepare concept master plan to guide upgrade to informal facilities for existing and forecast community

Investigate the need for a conservation management plan to guide upgrades to the reserve

Investigate new Small Prepare a concept Local open space to cater master plan to upgrade for existing and forecast informal facilities population Upgrade to improve condition Minor upgrade and value including planting Investigate new Small Local and seating open space primarily for the Upgrade facilities to existing population Drawing Key increase diversity of use Major upgrade Minor upgrade to Note: Refer Page 11 for detailed improve natural values drawing key Major upgrade to expand or relocate Investigate new Small Local open to improve access and use space to cater for existing and forecast population

0 500m 1km Prepare a conservation management Upgrade to improve seating and links plan to guide ongoing management to library and Alexandra Gardens and design of the gardens 32 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 7.11 Kew East

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: Hays Paddock, Yarra Flats Reserve and Harp Village and Dickens Village are Willsmere Park are the major Regional the two Neighbourhood Centres and 60.88 ha of Walking distance access to existing open spaces in Kew East along the where the majority of the forecast future open space open space (gaps shown in white). Yarra River. At a municipal-wide level population change for Kew East is Gap areas the open space survey identified Hays anticipated to occur. Open space is well shown with Paddock is the most popular open space distributed in the majority of the precinct, 10.2% label. in Boroondara, mainly for the regional with two gaps areas around High Street 10.2% of all playground and its setting near the Yarra and Harp Road in the catchment of the open space in River with associated picnic facilities. Harp Village Neighbourhood Centre. Boroondara Stradbroke Park is the second most The Gap Area KE-1 to the north of High popular open space, and is connected Street will be overcome by improving via an open space linear link along the east-west links and accessibility to 15% 15% of the total Glass Creek tributary to Hays Paddock Windella Avenue Reserve. Gap Area suburb area is making this popular for walking. Both KE-2 is located between two major roads open space Stradbroke Park and Hays Paddock and if the forecast future population provide structured sporting use as well growth occurs, a new Small Local open as unstructured and informal use and space with good east-west pedestrian facilities. Willsmere Park located along the connectivity is proposed close to the Yarra is popular for walking, dog walking Centre. Open space use: and is highly valued for its environmental Higher priority actions for the existing significance, peaceful character and open space include implementation of the Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space the sports field. The Main Yarra Trail within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: Hays Paddock Master Plan, investigating connects the Yarra Flats Reserve and a path connection through Old Burke 1. Hays Paddock 1. Maranoa Gardens Willsmere Park, which then extends Road Reserve to connect Musca Street 2. Stradbroke Park 2. Studley Park through Chandler Park downstream of the Reserve in Balwyn North to Hays 3. Willsmere Park 3. Hays Paddock precinct. Paddock. Other actions include upgrades Hyde Park is connected to the Outer to sections of the OCLP and Hyde Park. Circle Linear Park (OCLP) that runs along the southern boundary of the precinct. The Anniversary Trail connects down through Hyde Park and via an underpass to the Main Yarra Trail at Willsmere Park. Tennis courts are located at Jack O’Toole Reserve adjacent to the freeway.

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 33 Kew East (continued)

Liaise with DSE to continue to support management and improvement of nature conservation values

Investigate establishment of a path connection to Hays Paddock and improvements to nature conservation values Continue to implement recommendations from Willsmere - Chandler Park Upgrade park facilities including Management Plan resolution of carparking to complement the Regional Playground

Minor upgrade to provide seating Upgrade park facilities and provide additional seating, picnic shelter and Minor upgrade to provide additional shared trail link to the Main Yarra Trail planting and seating

Drawing Key

Higher priority projects Lower priority projects

Minor upgrade as part of the Sub-precinct for proposed Childers Park Design Plan Continue to maintain as Small Local open space a sporting reserve and Grey Actions that are subject to protect vegetation values text future population change. Delivery will be linked to the Investigate new Small Local open rate of change. space to address both the existing and forecast population needs

0 500m 1km

34 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 7.12 Surrey Hills

Fast facts Precinct summary

Quantity of open space: Gap analysis: Canterbury Road and the railway run east Centres and a Commercial Corridor west through Surrey Hills which creates where the larger proportion of the forecast 11.62 ha of Walking distance two distinct areas north and south of it. population is anticipated to occur in the open space access to existing South of Canterbury Road, South Surrey future. open space (gaps Park is the most popular open space The northern Gap Area, SH-1 is located shown in white). in Surrey Hills providing a diversity of towards Whitehorse Road. Gap Area Gap areas shown 1.9% unstructured recreational uses along with SH-2 is located between the railway 1.9% of all with label. its heritage values including significant and Canterbury Road. If forecast future open space native and exotic plantings and informal population change occurs, an additional in Boroondara character. Surrey Gardens provides a Small Local open space is proposed for contrasting space with its formal exotic both the existing and forecast population, planting character, layout and monuments. 4.3% accessible to both areas. 4.3% of the The elevated views from Mary McKillop Higher priority actions for the existing total suburb Reserve contribute to the sense of space open space include to prepare a area is open within this Local open space popular for conservation management plan for space its playground. Surrey Gardens to guide the ongoing North of Canterbury Road, Canterbury management of its heritage values and Sports Ground is the major Municipal to prepare and implement a landscape Open space use: open space for this area and is popular design plan for Grovedale Park to for watching and playing sport, exercising better meet the needs of the local Most frequently visited open space Most frequently visited open space and visiting the playground. Grovedale community and improve use of this open within walking distance of home: beyond walking distance of home: Park is a Local open space and has a space. Lower priority works include diverse range of mature exotic trees with 1. South Surrey Park 1. Hays Paddock a conservation management plan for some elevated views to the north but does 2. Canterbury Sports Ground 2. Maranoa Gardens South Surrey Park to guide the ongoing not appear to be well used. Located in the 3. Surrey Gardens 3. Wattle Park management of its heritage values, and north east of the precinct is the Balwyn a landscape design plan for Balwyn Park Community Centre, the grounds of which Community Centre to resolve the future are used as open space with tennis courts use of this space in the context of other and a community garden. open space in Balwyn. Open space is generally well distributed to the west, with a lack of any open space to the east, north of Canterbury Road. Two Gap Areas are identified which coincide with the catchment of two Neighbourhood

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 35 Surrey Hills (continued)

Prepare a landscape design plan to investigate the appropriate future use of this open space in the context of the community centre and connectivity to the Balwyn NAC Prepare a landscape design plan for this open space to better meet the needs of the local community and undertake minor upgrade as required

Minor upgrade

Minor upgrade to play Investigate new small local open facilities and seating space in proximity to the activity centre primarily for the existing community and for the forecast population

Prepare a conservation management plan to guide future minor upgrade to cater for increased use of the gardens Minor upgrade to provide additional seating and other minor works as required Drawing Key

Higher priority projects Lower priority projects Sub-precinct for proposed Small Local open space Grey Actions that are subject to Prepare a conservation text future population change. management plan to guide minor Delivery will be linked to the upgrades to open space facilities rate of change.

0 500m 1km

36 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 8. Open space design and management guidelines

Biodiversity • As future open space upgrades and near higher density urban areas, for a diversity of reasons and the future occur review proximity of existing particularly activity centres. This design and management of open space Boroondara is committed to protecting and new facilities to riparian corridors achieves multiple benefits including will focus on promoting these values and improving biodiversity values in open and waterways and other areas of mitigating urban heat island effect and uses balanced with protecting the space where feasible. These values have biodiversity significance. impacts and improving community biodiversity values. been referred to in this strategy through • Proposals for change in use and design health and wellbeing. the use of the Nature conservation Accessibility to open space character classification. This has been in reserves with biodiversity values will • Continue to increase tree canopy cover need to demonstrate the changes will across the municipality where feasible, • Investigating practical ways to improve applied to sites with identified values access for people of all abilities, ages consistent with Councils biodiversity contribute to these values. facilitated through a future municipal wide urban forest or tree management and backgrounds to open space as part plans and strategies. Where Nature of the ongoing program of upgrades. conservation is the primary or secondary Environmental strategy. character classification of open space, • Increase the diversity of open space the recreational use and infrastructure sustainability design, character and facilities to will be designed and managed to In this time of climate change, Council appeal to a broad cross-section of the complement and in some cases improve can contribute positively to mitigating community. the interpretation and conservation values. the impacts from and adapting to climate • Minimise conflicts between different This includes: change through sustainable design uses through appropriate design and • Lighting for recreational use will be and management of open space. This management responses in open space. designed to limit any negative impact includes: on areas identified to have native fauna • Water sensitive open space design habitat significance. that recognises all water streams in • Defining no dog access areas in the urban water cycle as a resource locations with significant native habitat including rainwater, stormwater, potable mains water, greywater and blackwater. values. Community health • Where feasible, our open space system will rely on sustainable water supply and wellbeing for its ongoing management and The benefits of open space on community maintenance. health and wellbeing are numerous. This • Infrastructure design will continue to includes participation in sport, exercise promote sustainable materials including and play along with the more intangible their source and ongoing longevity and benefits including to relax and unwind; maintenance. social contact; being outdoors and • Encourage natural features including fresh air; and as a break from the urban large canopy shade trees and natural environment. Boroondara’s open space surfaces in open space located in network is well used and highly valued

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 37 Open space design and management guidelines (continued)

Different types of recreational use in Culture, arts and • The strategy recognises the importance open space of public art where it is a reflection community involvement • Adaptability in open space and facility of the intrinsic natural, cultural and design to increase the opportunities for Open space protects and promotes the community values of open space, which a range of structured and unstructured historical and contemporary cultural will be guided by relevant policies in recreational uses to occur, encouraging values of our community. Some of the key Council. fitness and health in the community. directions include: • Community gardens have positive features including growing food • Provide for structured sport and • The Indigenous cultural heritage values recreation uses recognising the of open space in Boroondara are sustainably and social connectedness, important contribution structured sport generally located along waterways. but do restrict access for other has on the fitness and health of our These values are to be protected in the purposes. As they can be run community, especially for family groups Informal use future by preparing cultural heritage successfully on public land other than open space as well, future proposals for and young people. • Recognise and encourage informal use management plans where required. them in open space will be assessed of open space with provision of seating, • Provide for unstructured recreational • Recognise, protect and interpret the within this context. activities in open space with a variety maintaining horticultural display areas non-Indigenous historical values of of facilities including paths, shared and providing a variety of landscape open space through the preparation of • Establish an Open Space Forum model trails, play areas, fitness equipment and settings that appeal to different parts of selected Conservation Management that provides a range of community multipurpose courts. our diverse community. Plans in open space with identified or engagement process in all aspects of ongoing decision making in our open • Continue to provide a variety of picnic potential historical values. • Balance the need for additional built space network including establishing and barbecue facilities in open space facilities in open space with the high • To guide future design and management Friends Groups. value placed on the open parkland encouraging social connectedness. of selected open space a range of character. • Encourage natural features and plans are proposed to be prepared. character in open spaces within activity These include: concept master plans centres to provide a balance to their for selected Regional and Municipal urban character and context. open spaces; and landscape design plans for selected Neighbourhood, Local and Small Local open spaces. Council’s Community Engagement Strategy is referred to for appropriate levels of community engagement in the preparation of these plans.

38 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy 9. Implementation

Overview Open space improvement works Open space contributions precinct. The individual assessments Council revenue and external grants undertaken by Council will use the Section The recommendations and actions will fund the works identified for the Contributions levy and rate under the 18(1A) criteria as set out in Table 9A and have been prioritised over a 15-year existing population. The annual allocation Subdivision Act 1988 will be undertaken in light of the holistic timeframe. Timeframes will be influenced of funding for capital works projects Council levies contributions for public and strategic evaluation of open space by the allocation of suitable funds and will be subject to adequate resources open space under the Subdivision Act use provided in this strategy. resources, the rate of forecast land and budgets being made available by 1988. Section 18 of the Act allows Secondly, once the need for more open use change and collection of fair and Council to fund the strategy projects. Council to require a contribution toward space is identified, Council will set a equitable open space contributions. Council will continue to apply for external the provision of open space in the contribution rate to be paid. A basic Responsibility for implementation involves government grants towards specific municipality as part of a subdivision principle is that the levy should represent different directorates including City projects. Council also funds an ongoing approval. The contribution is expressed a reasonable proportion of the value of Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, replacement program for infrastructure as a percentage of the land area of the the open space improvements that the Community Development and Corporate in open space referred to as the Open development site or the equivalent value Council will provide on behalf of the new Services. Regular meetings to monitor the Space Asset Management Plan. This of undeveloped land as a monetary population. An analysis undertaken for progress of the actions including revising replacement program has been aligned to contribution, or a combination of both. this strategy using the recommended priorities where required to respond the strategy actions and priorities. Open Land contributions are required to be projects and the forecast population to updated circumstances will occur space contributions will be used to fund transferred to the Council and zoned as growth concluded that an averaged throughout this 15-year period. improvement works required for the future public open space. municipal contribution rate of 5 per population as population change occurs. There are two components to the levy. cent represents a reasonable allocation Funding Firstly, Council needs to be satisfied of costs to the future population. For Land area larger sites comprising 10 lots or more, The open space projects recommended in there will be a need for more open space A number of new open spaces are Council is encouraged to negotiate more this strategy include improvements to the as a result of the development based identified for the 15-year timeframe of the than a 5 per cent contribution as part of unstructured recreation and informal open on the assessment criteria included in strategy, the majority of which are linked the overall development negotiations. space facilities and design in existing and Section 18(1A) of the Act. This strategy to the forecast future population growth This recognises that historically new open space, and the provision of land considers this question for the different and change. The land area for these new Council has received larger, negotiated area for new open space. The funding for open space precincts and concludes that areas of open space will be achieved contributions for major sites and reflects the improvement works will be sourced all subdivisions eligible to be levied under through a combination of: the intensification and concentration from a combination of: the Act should make a contribution to • percentage of land area as part of an public open space. For each precinct, the of population with higher density • Council revenue open space contribution on behalf of intensification of use has been evaluated development and the consequent • external grants from other State and the future population holistically in terms of the existing open demand on open space. Federal Government agencies • purchase of land area using a space in the neighbourhood (places Most subdivisions will be required to • open space contributions. combination of open space cash of public resort or recreation) and the make a cash contribution toward open contributions and Council revenue forecast demand and benefit that will space. However the Council may require • conversion of existing public land to be derived from this open space by the the levy as a land contribution where the open space. occupants of new subdivisions in that need for more open space is identified,

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 39 Implementation (continued)

as shown in Diagram 9-1, and the land meets the criteria in Table 6A. This decision will have regard to the municipal- wide recommendations and the relevant precincts as set out in this strategy.

Contributions expenditure Contributions collected by the Council must be separately accounted for and allocated to land acquisition for new reserves or open space capital works. Council will allocate contribution funds in line with the open space priorities for the new population on whose behalf the contributions are collected. The contributions funding component of each recommended open space project is to reflect the proportion of identified need or benefit that will accrue to the new population from that project. As projects are implemented over time, there should be an equitable and balanced distribution of contributions expenditure, so that locations with larger numbers of new Diagram Key dwellings (and therefore a larger new Suburbs where a land contribution population) benefit in line with the level as part of the open space contribution of contributions made toward strategy program may be sought as identified in the Boroondara Open Space Strategy implementation. Suburbs where no land contribution as part of the open space contribution program will be sought. (Note: Land contributions via other mechanisms may be sought where a linear open space corridor link or connection is required)

Diagram 9-1 Where land contributions may be sought as part of the open space contribution program

40 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Implementation (continued)

Table 9A Applying the Subdivision Act 1988 criteria Table 9A (continued)

Criteria from Criteria from Subdivision Act 1988 Matters to be considered Subdivision Act 1988 Matters to be considered Section 18(1A) (different options are indicated for some responses) Section 18(1A) (different options are indicated for some responses)

(a) the existing and • The development is an intensification of use on the land (c) any existing or • Council’s forecasts indicate that the population proposed use or resulting in increased development, and/or likely population density of the municipality and the local area in which development of the • The development is part of the overall intensification of density in the area the subdivision is located is predicted to increase. land use and development for the local area. of the subdivision This development is adding incrementally to that and the effect of the increased density. Population density in the area of (b) any likelihood • The subdivision will result in an increase in the subdivision on this the subdivision will increase cumulatively through the that existing open (residential, worker) population, and therefore the effects of: space will be more existing open space will be used more intensively after –– infill development,or the subdivision. Incremental increases in population intensively used –– large scale redevelopment after than before the add pressures on existing open space. Even minimal subdivision pressures require additional resources and contribute such as this subdivision. to a cumulative increase in use. Refer to Section 6 of this strategy for municipal open • Dwellings with less private open space can mean an space planning and Section 7 for the local precinct increased reliance on public open space for residents’ analysis. recreational needs. (d) whether there Where a cash contribution is required: (c) any existing or • The subdivision is located in: are existing places • The existing places of resort and recreation within the likely population –– an established neighbourhood where there is a of public resort or local area include (refer to precinct maps in Section 7). density in the area trend toward infill development,or recreation in the These open spaces are recommended for improvement of the subdivision –– an area in transition to residential or mixed use neighbourhood of the or upgrade. and the effect of the development, or subdivision, and the subdivision on this Where a land contribution is required: –– an activity centre. adequacy of these • The gap analysis has identified the need for additional • Additional development is: open space in the local area (refer to recommendations –– increasing the number of buildings, scale of for additional land and Diagram 9-1) because of an buildings, and/or increasing (residential, worker) population. Refer to Section 7 of this strategy for specific actions on –– introducing new development into the area. relevant open space. This development is part of this trend.

Boroondara Open Space Strategy | 41 Implementation (continued)

Table 9A (continued)

Criteria from Subdivision Act 1988 Matters to be considered Section 18(1A) (different options are indicated for some responses)

(e) how much of • This statement is not applicable because the the land in the development does not set aside public open space subdivision is likely to facilities for the use of all of the lot owners. be used for places of resort and recreation for lot owners

(f) any policies of the • The Council has adopted an open space strategy, Council concerning which details the actions for public open space in the provision of the municipality and in the local area in which the places of public subdivision is located. These actions have been resort and recreation planned to respond to the needs of the changing (residential, worker) population. • The occupants of the subdivision can expect to enjoy the benefits of improvements and additions to the open space network.

42 | Boroondara Open Space Strategy Boroondara Open Space Strategy