Open Space Strategy PLANNING FOR FUTURE GROWTH Acknowledgements The City of would like to thank the City of Melbourne Parks and Gardens Advisory Committee for their contribution to the Open Space Strategy.

The City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy has been prepared for the City of Melbourne by Thompson Berrill Landscape Design Pty Ltd in collaboration with Environment & Land Management Pty Ltd and Professor Nigel Tapper who provided the directions on urban heat island effect mitigation. The population forecast information was supplied for this project by .id Consulting and Dr Serryn Eagleston of EDGResearch. June 2012 Message from the City of Melbourne

Open spaces define Melbourne. Our distance of a park, garden or reserve. In a parks, gardens and reserves help make commitment to a sustainable city, we will this city the world’s most liveable. To help also plan our open spaces to ensure they us prepare for the future, this plan sets provide shade in summer and cool our directions for the sustainable care and city in a changing climate. expansion of our open space to meet the We commend the City of Melbourne’s needs of an increasing population. first Open Space Strategy as a guide to Melbourne is growing and changing, sustainable improvements in our city’s which presents us with opportunities cherished open spaces. as well as challenges. We’ve responded in creative ways – completing major stormwater harvesting projects such Robert Doyle as and Darling Street Lord Mayor to keep the city green. We’ve created new neighbourhood open spaces and we’re working closely with the state ROBERT DOYLE government to secure new areas of open Lord Mayor space in proposed urban renewal areas. The City of Melbourne’s first Open Space Strategy recognises the value of open space in improving community health and wellbeing for our residents, visitors and workers. Significant new CR CATHY OKE open spaces ensure that all residents Chair, Future Melbourne and workers are within easy walking (Eco–city) Committee

Cr Cathy Oke Chair, Future Melbourne (Eco–city) Committee

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy

Index

Introduction p.1 What is open space? p.2 Why is open space important? p.3 Melbourne’s existing open space p.5 Open space network p.6 What will change? p.7 Overall direction p.8 Precincts p.12 Carlton | Carlton North p.13 Docklands p.14 East Melbourne p.16 Flemington | Ascot Vale p.17 Kensington p.18 Melbourne 3000 p.20 Melbourne 3004 | South Yarra p.21 North Melbourne p.22 Parkville p.24 Port Melbourne p.25 Southbank | South Wharf p.26 West Melbourne p.27 Implementation p.29

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Introduction 1

The purpose of the Open Space Strategy The Open Space Strategy will provide the overarching framework and strategic direction for public open space planning in the City of Melbourne for the next 15 years. The strategy includes consideration of the forecast population change and provides the strategic basis for an open space contributions policy. Supporting this strategy is the Open Space Strategy Technical Report, which contains the technical research, definitions, analysis and recommendations.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy What is open space? 2

Open space is the publicly owned land that is set aside primarily for recreation, nature conservation, passive outdoor enjoyment and public gatherings. This includes public parks, gardens, reserves, waterways, publicly owned forecourts and squares. Public open space also includes publicly owned major sporting venues and gardens that are managed by or on behalf of the State of including Public parks Public parks Public gardens

Squares Reserves Waterways Major sporting venues

the , , Zoological Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Other public land including schools, universities and streets complement the open space network and are guided by other strategies and plans. Throughout this strategy public open space is referred to as ‘open space’. Melbourne’s diversity and quality of open space creates a range of different experiences and opportunities across Publicly owned forecourts Plazas the city.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Why is open space important? 3

Melbourne is identified as one of the most liveable cities in the world, and one of Physical health and wellbeing Mitigation of urban heat the major contributory elements to this liveability is the quality and amount of open space. In a recent household survey undertaken during the research phase of this strategy, many people indicated they live in the municipality because of the open space. Open space is also extensively used by the local community and visitors from across and overseas. Open space is important for numerous reasons, some of which are described here. Where the heat can radiate out at night and cool Social connectedness Mental health and wellbeing the city following hot weather

Participating in organised sport

Social contact Spaces to relax and unwind Space for large canopy trees to grow and provide shade Exercising informally

Community events and festivals Restorative places Creating cool spaces by irrigating them with Contact with nature sustainable water supply

Meeting places, particularly associated with high Permeable surfaces that hold moisture and cool density living Social development in children Being outside in the fresh air and sunlight the environment

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Why is open space important? 4

Biodiversity Cultural heritage and character Economics and tourism Events and Arts

Habitat for native fauna including birds

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage values

Permanent and temporary installations

Visitor destination points

Protection of remnant areas of indigenous flora

World, National and State heritage significance Selective reintroduction of habitat diversity of existing parks and gardens Commemorative events Performances

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Melbourne’s existing open space 5

The City of Melbourne is located on The waterways flowing through the traditional land of the Kulin Nation. Melbourne include the , For the Wurundjeri, Boonerwrung, Maribyrnong River and Moonee Ponds Taungurong, Djajawurrung, and the Creek. The Yarra River was one of the Wauthaurong groups who form the Kulin main reasons for the establishment of Nation, Melbourne has always been an Melbourne, influencing the alignment of important meeting place for events of the Hoddle Grid and Melbourne’s layout. social, educational, sporting and Early settlers modified the alignment, cultural significance. shape and natural values to suit land The major open spaces in Melbourne use changes, industrialisation and the were set aside at the time of European growing city’s needs. settlement from 1842 onwards on the For many years settlement turned outskirts of the central city (Hoddle Grid) its back on the waterways causing as part of Governor La Trobe’s vision of a degradation of their natural, cultural green belt of parks encircling Melbourne. and biodiversity values. In the 1980s They include Royal Park, , Melbourne changed its view of its rivers , Royal Botanic and creeks and development has since Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, Treasury turned around to face the waterways Gardens, Domain Parklands, Fawkner and harbours and provide open space Park and . along them. Waterways are now used These larger original reserves are for recreational activities including synonymous with the character of recreational boating, rowing, jogging, Melbourne, as are some of the more cycling and walking, and are recognised contemporary open spaces including for their biodiversity and habitat , Southbank corridor values. Promenade and Birrarung Marr. The existing open space encourages Major festivals and events are held the community outdoors to in Melbourne’s open space including participate in organised sport, Moomba and New Years Eve along unstructured recreational activities Diagram Key the Yarra River, the Australian Open at and informal uses that promote Existing open space Melbourne Park, cricket and AFL at the social connectedness and Restricted open space MCG and numerous other major sporting community health and wellbeing. (Public access on a fee paying events that form part of Melbourne’s Royal Park, Princes Park, Fawkner or membership basis only) image and identity and contribute to the Park and JJ Holland Park are some Port of Melbourne Corporation City of Melbourne’s reputation as one of of the key open spaces that support the world’s most liveable cities. this community use. Precinct boundaries Waterways/Harbour

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Open space network 6

Overview include Princes Park, Fawkner Park and use through to informal play and places Distribution the Maribyrnong River. of contemplation. A range of character A key objective in planning the open The 148 sites in Melbourne’s types describe the variety of open public open space network totals Municipal open spaces are valued and space network is to provide open visited primarily by the City of Melbourne spaces in the municipality. For more space within easy walking distance for approximately 555 hectares and information on the role and character represents almost 15 per cent of population, providing facilities that the majority of the community. A 500 include organised and unstructured of open space, refer to the Open Space metre walkable distance is used for the total area of the municipality. Strategy Technical Report. Each open space has a unique role sport and recreation activities. Examples State, Capital City, Regional, Municipal within the network depending on include JJ Holland Park and North and Neighbourhood open space, and a its location, size, use and character. Melbourne Recreation Reserve. 300 metre walkable distance is used for Local and Small Local open space. Major In developing this strategy the role Neighbourhood open spaces provide roads and railways are barriers that limit and character of each open space a diversity of character and facilities walkable access. The gap analysis was assessed and its distribution that appeal to the local community diagram below indicates that when mapped. This assessment forms the at a neighbourhood level. Examples walkable distances are applied to basis for understanding what open include Argyle Square and North the existing open space network, space exists now, any deficiencies to Melbourne Community Centre. be addressed and consideration of there are gaps in the distribution open spaces future change. Local and Small Local of open space. The gap areas complement the larger reserves and are locations where residents provide smaller more intimate spaces and workers lack easy walkable within safe and easy walking distance Role access to open space and of the local community. These two include some areas open spaces Capital City and State types are differentiated by their where significant are iconic and synonymous with the size. Examples include Golden population growth character and identity of Melbourne Elm Reserve in South Yarra and is anticipated. and often used to stage activities and Chapman Street Reserve in Additional open events of international, national, state North Melbourne. space is needed and metropolitan importance. Examples to address current include Federation Square (Capital City), Character and future gaps in Domain Parklands (Capital City) and The larger established parks, provision of open Royal Park (State). The size varies to suit gardens and reserves across space within walking the identified purpose and urban context the municipality have a range Diagram Key distance. in which they are located. of characters and purposes. Existing open space Regional open spaces are valued and These vary from historical gardens with a predominantly Walkable distances to visited by a broader catchment of people existing open space as well as the local community. Generally European character to the these are easily accessible to people primarily Australian character Areas beyond walkable distance gaps) from adjoining municipalities. Examples of Royal Park. They provide space for organised sporting Gap Analysis Diagram

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy What will change? 7

Forecast population growth The population growth and forecast Climate change heat wave in early 2009 the urban heat development in Melbourne is significant, Climate change is predicted to result island effect became a serious problem. Overall population change resulting in greater than two–thirds more in more extreme weather patterns. Of Where urban renewal drives an increase = 50,000 people people living in the City of Melbourne relevance to open space are the forecast in urban densities, the future population by 2026 and approximately a third more extended dry periods and more intense will generally be accommodated in Residents: people working in the municipality. rainfall and storms resulting in additional multiple–level buildings with a focus on • 2011 (98,162) This forecast is based on the Growth periods of drought and flooding. Open compact urban form to promote mixed Framework Plan included in the Draft use, walkable neighbourhoods. Provision • 2026 (164,832) space cannot directly influence climate Municipal Strategic Statement (July change, but it can play an important role of open space with natural features 2010). The growth is projected across in mitigating the urban heat island effect through these new neighbourhoods will Workers: the municipality and is concentrated and assisting the city adapt to more help offset the build up of urban heat. • 2011 (431,502) in urban renewal areas in the west and extreme weather patterns. Planting additional large canopy trees in south of the municipality. These are open space and streets (as outlined in • 2026 (603,165) shown spatially on the Overall Direction Urban heat island effect is the build up the Draft Urban Forest Strategy) will also diagrams in this report. The largest of heat in urban areas as explained in help mitigate urban heat build up. amounts of open space are located in the the diagram below. During Melbourne’s north and south–east of the city. Forecast Open space relative to population population growth is concentrated in the Urban Heat Island and open space diagram density change west and the south with some growth = 10m2 in the north, creating the need for more open space in the west and south. Open space per resident: The paved and The open space The forecast population growth will mean built surfaces provides a cooler • 2011 (55.4m2) more people living and working in higher absorb heat space during the • 2026 (33.7m2) density neighbourhoods. Increasing during the hot hot summers urban densities will result in more people summers needing to use open space to maintain Open space per head of population their physical and mental health and (resident + worker): wellbeing. This will place additional Overnight the • 2011 (10.5m2) demand on existing open spaces and in open space Overnight the allows the city • 2026 (7.2m2) some areas create the need to provide additional open space. Population lack of open to cool with growth is already occurring in areas space traps evapotranspiration lacking adequate or any open space. the stored heat from the moisture Growth will require improvement to the radiating from in the trees and quantity, diversity, quality and natural the built surfaces natural surfaces features of open space to adequately cater to the increased population.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Overall direction 8

Maintain and expand a quality Provide distributed open space Improve community health open space network within easy walking distance and wellbeing Melbourne enjoys a diverse, high quality The beneficial effects of open space Research confirms there are health and and greatly valued open space network. for communities living in urban areas wellbeing benefits for the community As the city changes and grows, positive supports the general planning principle when open space is readily accessible. actions are required to upgrade existing that people including children, young This includes: and provide additional open space to people and those with limited mobility • participation in organised sport when it maintain the role open space plays should have easy access to public open is available nearby in shaping Melbourne’s image and space. This means: liveability. This will require: • encouraging people outside into • the community is able to easily walk to open space to participate in informal • commitment, involvement and open space within 300 metres of them, recreation activities including walking, partnerships between key players being approximately a 10 minute walk cycling, jogging, informal games, active including the City of Melbourne, • no need to cross major barriers to unstructured sports the Victorian Government and the reach the open space including major • open spaces with a diversity of facilities development industry to deliver roads and railways. additional well located and designed that encourage people of all abilities open space relevant to the new A key strategy objective of providing and ages to participate in social and community open space within easy walking distance physical activities and events of the majority of residents and workers • children visiting nearby open space • adding open space to the network to will be achieved by: provide a diversity of open space for independently of adults improving multiple uses, expanding the capital • additional open space is to be their self–confidence and physical city functions into the new open space established in gap areas, refer to the development Gap Analysis Diagram. In some cases in the west and mitigate urban heat • places that are green with natural build up the smaller spaces will be achieved by features to which people can escape utilising wide road reserves • improvements to the design and and which provide a visual relief from function of some existing open spaces, • additional green open spaces in urban built form with physical benefits from achieving the objectives noted above renewal areas across the municipality. the localised microclimate effects of and improvements to their natural The diagrams of the proposed major and shade, greenery and cooler spaces features, character and biodiversity. smaller open spaces illustrate where the • presence of natural features in open The diagrams of the proposed major additional open space is required and space mitigating urban heat and smaller open spaces illustrate these are described further in island effect. where additional open space is required the precincts. and these are described further in the precincts.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Overall direction 9

Additional Capital City open Additional Municipal open space Urban heat island effect space in urban renewal areas in urban renewal areas mitigation and environmental • Historically in the west of the • With extensive growth to be improvements municipality open space has not been accommodated in the municipality, • Open space is proposed to provided due to the predominantly non additional Municipal open space will be be distributed through urban residential land use. needed for organised and unstructured neighbourhoods with natural features outdoor sport and recreation use. • With the forecast change to mixed such as large canopy trees and planted land use and a much larger population • The larger spaces required for this use, surfaces which absorb moisture, to of residents and workers, Capital City particularly outdoor sports fields, are offset some impacts of increased urban open space will be required in the west best achieved by setting aside parcels heat and promote health and wellbeing. to expand the open space network to a of land early in the future planning • These spaces will benefit from irrigation standard that exists in the east and to process for the urban renewal areas. where it is available from sustainable support new activities such as events • Negotiation for larger land parcels with water sources. and festivals held in Melbourne. the Victorian Government, as a major • Increased biodiversity will be achieved • A key objective is to provide Capital land holder during the early planning from a range of environmental City open space in the western areas stages for urban renewal areas, is improvements including the introduction of the municipality in the future. Over critical. These locations are illustrated of water and large canopy trees in open time these will become iconic spaces on the proposed additional major open space, and revegetation and habitat synonymous with the character and spaces diagram. improvements along waterways. identity of Melbourne, and the size will vary to suit the future identified • Treatment of urban runoff will improve purpose and urban context. The the quality of receiving waters including locations are illustrated on the Victoria Harbour, the waterways and proposed additional major open Port Phillip Bay, consistent with other spaces diagram. City of Melbourne strategies and policies.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Overall direction – proposed additional major open spaces 10

This diagram illustrates symbolic locations for the proposed Diagram Key additional or expanded major open Indicative location for spaces required to cater for the proposed Capital City forecast growth described in the open space – refer to Draft Municipal Strategic Statement page 6 description (July 2010) and summarised in this Indicative location for report. These additional major quality proposed Municipal open open spaces will have either a Capital space, to be a minimum of 3 hectares City, Regional or Municipal role in the future open space network providing Indicative location for a diversity of active sport, recreation proposed Capital City & Regional open space and informal facilities and spaces, along the Maribyrnong as well as supporting festivals and River that provides a events. They will be linked via a range of environmental system of existing and proposed and recreational improvements by on and off–street trails encouraging increasing and varying cycling and walking access to and the width of the open between them. space corridor The precinct summaries provide Improved open space corridor along Moonee more information on the intent and Ponds Creek including purpose of each proposed open environmental values and space. The additional open spaces linear recreational use shown here and on the precinct Symbolic existing and plans are diagrammatic only and future strategic open indicative of the general location space links between and relative (not actual) size. proposed Capital City and Municipal open space The final location, size and configuration of new open space Existing open space will be determined during the Restricted open space strategy implementation and will be influenced by factors such as Urban renewal areas (Source: Draft Municipal the rate of population growth, Strategic Statement land acquisition opportunities, July 2010) surrounding land use and urban Existing Port of Melbourne layout, open space design and land use community feedback. Waterways/Harbour

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Overall direction – proposed additional smaller open spaces 11

This diagram illustrates the proposed additional smaller open spaces Diagram Key required to address some existing Indicative area in which deficiencies and to cater for the future Neighbourhood forecast growth described in the open space is proposed – Draft Municipal Strategic Statement minimum 1 hectare in size with a 500m walkable (July 2010) and summarised in this catchment report. These additional smaller quality open spaces will have either a Indicative area in which future Local open space Neighbourhood, Local or Small Local is proposed – minimum role in the future open space network 0.26 to 0.9 hectare in size and provide a diversity of local with a 300m walkable recreation and informal facilities and catchment spaces. These spaces serve local use Indicative area in which and are located within an easy and future Small Local open safe walking distance for the majority space is proposed – minimum 0.03 to 0.25 of the community. hectare in size with a The precinct summaries provide 300m walkable catchment more information on the intent and Indicative location for purpose of each proposed open proposed Capital City space. The additional open spaces and/or Regional open space – refer to page 10 shown here and on the precinct plans are diagrammatic only and indicative Indicative location for of the general location and relative proposed Municipal open space – refer to page 10 (not actual) size. The final location, size and configuration of new open Improved open space space will be determined during corridor along the strategy implementation and will be influenced by factors such Existing open space as the rate of population growth, Restricted open space land acquisition opportunities, surrounding land use and urban Urban renewal areas (Source: Draft Municipal layout, open space design and Strategic Statement community feedback. July 2010)

NOTE: Existing Port of Melbourne The actual location of new open space land use will be subject to further investigation as future development occurs. Waterways/Harbour

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Precincts 12

Overview urban layout, and preparation of open ASCOT space designs and community feedback VALE The open space analysis has been PARKVILLE undertaken on a precinct basis to allow CARLTON Existing open spaces NORTH more detailed assessment of the existing Some of the existing open spaces are FLEMINGTON situation and forecast future change. recommended for upgrade as shown on KENSINGTON The precincts are broadly based on the precinct diagrams. The open spaces the suburb areas, with some suburbs NORTH not recommended for upgrade will MELBOURNE combined where there are commonalities continue to be maintained with minor CARLTON between them. A separate page for each improvements as required to retain the precinct is included, and they have been quality of the open space network. WEST assembled in alphabetical order. MELBOURNE Existing master plans EAST MELBOURNE MELBOURNE Forecast future growth Master plans are in place for the major 3000 Throughout all precincts, the urban open spaces in Melbourne, and there is a DOCKLANDS renewal areas are illustrated on the progressive program of implementation diagrams. These urban renewal areas are works and scheduled reviews arising MELBOURNE based on the City of Melbourne Growth SOUTH SOUTHBANK 3004 from these plans. When the master plans WHARF Framework Plan in the Draft Municipal PORT are reviewed, the overall directions in this MELBOURNE Strategic Statement (July 2010), and in strategy will be taken into consideration some cases have been refined through and inform the updated master plans. SOUTH the development of structure plans. The YARRA forecast population figures included Structure Plans in these precincts are consistent with Structure plans guide future the forecasts prepared by the City of development and change in the urban Precinct location map Melbourne and consistent with the renewal areas. Where structure plans Growth Framework Plan. The open space were final and in place for precincts analysis and directions are based on such as Southbank, these are reflected Diagram key for the following pages these forecasts. in the precinct recommendations of the strategy. The open space component of Existing open space Proposed open space links via the Additional open spaces future structure plans will be informed by street network The additional open spaces are shown Restricted open space this Open Space Strategy. Access to adjoining major areas symbolically on the precincts plans. The Urban renewal areas final location, size and configuration of open space of new open space will be determined Balance of suburb area Leader locating actions for existing during strategy implementation and will Existing linear open space links open space be influenced by factors such as the rate of population growth, land acquisition Proposed linear open space links Leader locating actions for opportunities, surrounding land use and proposed new open space

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Carlton | Carlton North 13

Forecast in population change Precinct summary Update and implement Diagram key (Refer also to page 12) the 10 year plan for = 5,000 people The characteristic open spaces in this Princes Park Sub–precinct for proposed Local precinct include Princes Park, Carlton and Small Local open space Carlton | Carlton North Gardens and Argyle Square. Forecast Residents: change is planned to occur in Carlton with the City North urban renewal area • 2011 (14,644) encompassing part of Carlton and other • 2026 (23,773) major urban renewal associated with New Small Local open space already agreed to at the Australian the public housing redevelopments. Unity site Workers: Additional Local open spaces are to be provided in the urban renewal areas • 2011 (17,823) Upgrade as part of the Carlton and designed to complement the Housing Redevelopment project • 2026 (24,147) facilities already provided in Lincoln and Minor upgrade University Squares. Additional Small Local open spaces are either already set Proposed new Small Local open space as part of the Carlton aside or will be provided as part of the Housing Redevelopment project public housing redevelopment projects. Gap Analysis Carlton Gardens North and South will New Small Local open space New Small walking distance within easy walking distance Local open access to existing continue to be managed to protect of the community space already open space (gaps its World Heritage status, and Carlton provided and to shown in white – Note: Gardens North will also be managed for Prepare a Landscape Master be developed Plan to guide future design and there are none in this as part of the local use and regional needs. Princes upgrades with the new Local precinct) Elgin/Nicholson Park will continue to be managed open space located nearby Public Housing primarily for organised sporting, redevelopment unstructured recreational activities and New Local open space associated with the Continue to informal use. proposed Parkville implement the Master Metro Station and Plan to provide new forecast increased facilities for visitors urban density. Design and the Carlton to complement population and the other facilities manage its World provided at Lincoln Heritage status and and University Squares values Continue to implement the Master Plan and New Small Local open manage for its World space in the vicinity of the Heritage status former CUB site and City and values North urban renewal area

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Docklands 14

Forecast in population change = 5,000 people

Docklands Precinct summary Residents: Docklands is entering its second decade reserve along the waterfront with • 2011 (6,134) of development. The vision for the access to the water’s edge celebrating

• 2026 (14,205) open space system is to increase its Victoria Harbour and the Yarra River as diversity including natural features, its key strengths of Docklands. Moonee connection to the water and habour, and Ponds Creek linear open space corridor Workers: improve recreational opportunities for will continue to be improved providing • 2011 (33,503) the Docklands community. This includes recreational and habitat connectivity

• 2026 (44,000) a Municipal open space with active to the future Municipal open space, organised and unstructured community north to E–Gate and Arden Macaulay sporting facilities, and other Local open urban renewal areas and to New Quay Gap Analysis walking distance access spaces with unstructured recreation Promenade. to existing open space (gaps shown facilities encouraging physical fitness. in white) A new Local park in the New Quay area is to be developed along with additional Local open spaces in the Yarra’s Edge and Victoria Harbour precincts. These spaces are proposed to be connected with a continuous public open space

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Docklands 15

Achieve a public open space Establish a new Local open promenade link to the future space in this location Municipal open space New Small Local open space Continue to improve the riparian already agreed to by the and linear open space function Victorian Government values of Moonee Ponds Creek New Small Local open space accessible to the nearby population

New Local open space already New Small Local open space agreed to by the Victorian already agreed to by the Government Victorian Government Future open space link to have a more interactive edge with the Harbour New Municipal open space including different levels to provide structured and of access to the water unstructured sport and recreation facilities for New local open space the community already agreed to by the Victorian Government

New Local open space already Review the design to agreed to by the Victorian better meet the local Government community needs

New Local open space connected to public open space along the Yarra River and complement the facilities in Point Park New Small Local open space within easy walking distance of future development with Proposed public access along New Small Local open space access to Yarra River frontage the north bank of the Yarra River within easy access of the for connectivity between Collins Landing and community between Wurundjeri proposed new open spaces Way and the railway Provide public open space along the south bank of New Local open space already Complete the upgrade works the Yarra River agreed to by the Victorian Government at the intersection of Collins and Bourke Streets Diagram key Sub–precinct for proposed Local Indicative location for proposed Refer to diagram key on page 12 0 and Small Local open space Municipal open space for additional information. 500m

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy East Melbourne 16

Forecast in population change Precinct summary = 5,000 people East Melbourne is an established area Continue to implement updated with significant State and Capital City Fitzroy Gardens Master Plan East Melbourne open space including Fitzroy Gardens, Residents: , and the MCG. Established neighbourhoods are • 2011 (5,162) forecast to grow with a larger worker • 2026 (5,770) population and a slight increase in the residential community. The precinct is Workers: well provided for with a variety of open Investigate the • 2011 (21,080) space types and character and these will potential to improve continue to be managed and maintained. accessibility and use • 2026 (25,000) Demand for unstructured recreation Upgrade to of Weedon Reserve improve facilities for people north of activities and informal use from the for the local Wellington Parade forecast additional worker population community Jolimont Railway urban renewal area will continue to be accommodated in There are no population forecasts available as the key existing open spaces. Upgrades Upgrade to improve the timeframe for this development is are proposed to some of the smaller beyond 2026. facilities for the local open spaces, and it is recommended that community improved access to Weedon Reserve City of Melbourne to Gap Analysis walking distance access be investigated. Fitzroy Gardens is the Continue to improve connectivity to existing open space (there are no gaps continue to advocate most popular open space and continued between Parklands and the Yarra River on behalf of the local in this precinct) implementation of the updated Master Future proposed Jolimont Railway Corridor community to maintain Plan will be a priority. The Jolimont urban renewal area may require additional public access and use of Local open space subject to further details Yarra Park whilst Railway Corridor urban renewal area is recognising its role in forecast for redevelopment beyond the Maintaining connectivity for this area supporting the MCG timeframe of this Strategy. It is likely over the railway to Birrarung Marr and that additional open space may be open space along the Yarra River will required as part of any redevelopment. continue to be important. Diagram key (Refer to page 12)

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Flemington | Ascot Vale 17

Forecast in population change Precinct summary = 2,000 people Melbourne Showgrounds and Flemington Racecourse are the major land uses in Future Small Local open New Small Local open space Flemington | Ascot Vale space within easy and safe associated with the Flemington this precinct and there is currently no walking distance of forecast Showgrounds Station Residents: residential community living in these population, with views over the waterway corridor • 2011 (0) suburbs within the City of Melbourne. The Racecourse Rail Corridor urban • 2026 (4,950) renewal area is forecast to accommodate Future Capital City nearly 5,000 residents by 2026 and some open space including Workers: additional workers. New open space neighbourhood • 2011 (367) is proposed including neighbourhood facilities provided level facilities provided in a proposed for forecast • 2026 (500) Capital City open space adjoining the community in the Racecourse Rail Maribyrnong River, and two Small Local urban renewal area parks within walking distance of the development area. Gap Analysis walking distance access to existing open space (gaps shown in white)

Diagram key

Sub–precinct for proposed Local Upgrade linear open space and Small Local open space to improve the recreational, landscape character and Indicative location for proposed environmental values to Capital City open space bring the open space up to Capital City standards Refer to diagram key on page 12 for additional information.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Kensington 18

Forecast in population change = 2,000 people

Arden Macaulay urban renewal area Precinct summary Residents: Substantial change in the Kensington River a new Capital City open space will • 2011 (365) Arden Macaulay urban renewal area expand on the existing linear reserve

• 2026 (2,741) is forecast to increase the resident creating high quality open space near the and worker population. Two new river. Improvements to and consolidation

Workers: Neighbourhood parks and some smaller of the linear open space along the open spaces are proposed to cater to the Moonee Ponds Creek will connect • 2011 (1,459) community needs. These will cater for proposed new Municipal open space in

• 2026 (12,000) a diversity of unstructured recreational E–Gate and Docklands. activities and informal use, and include green spaces and natural features as a Kensington remainder of suburb contrast to increased urban densities Residents: assisting with urban heat mitigation. The importance of the Maribyrnong River • 2011 (10,095) is recognised with the opportunity to create a linear open space link between • 2026 (10,488) the Maribyrnong River and Moonee Workers: Ponds Creek, increasing the network of open space available to the community. • 2011 (3,808) On the east banks of the Maribyrnong • 2026 (8,000)

Gap Analysis walking distance access to existing open space (gaps shown in white)

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Kensington 19

Minor upgrade Improve the Moonee Ponds Creek linear open space, habitat Continue to implement and biodiversity values existing Master Plan New Local open space for the Future Capital City open community protected from the space overlooking the noise of City Link Maribyrnong River mainly for the new population New Neighbourhood park with a in Arden Macaulay urban diversity of facilities and natural renewal area and to features for the community create high quality open north of Macaulay Rd space that celebrates the river outlook Upgrade existing open space to cater to community needs

Minor upgrade

Improve east–west cycle and pedestrian connection

New Neighbourhood park with a diversity of facilities and natural features

Improve east–west cycle and pedestrian connection

Future open space link between If this area substantially Moonee Ponds Creek and the redevelops, a new Small Local Maribyrnong River Future open space link to the open space will be needed proposed Municipal open space in Dynon Rail Corridor Moonee Ponds creek linear link south to Proposed Capital City & Diagram key Municipal open space at E–Gate and Docklands Sub–precinct for proposed Local Indicative location for proposed and Small Local open space Capital City open space

Sub–precinct for proposed Improved open space corridor Refer to diagram key on page 12 Neighbourhood open space along Moonee Ponds Creek for additional information.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Melbourne 3000 20

Investigate potential open space in the vicinity of the which Forecast in population change Precinct summary complements existing cultural and retail activity while also catering to the needs of = 30,000 people The Melbourne 3000 central city area the growing community of City North urban renewal area. This has potential to include upgrades to existing open spaces and/or the utilisation of road reserves. was originally designed with a ring of Melbourne 3000 Future Small Local open open space around the central grid rather space associated with Residents: than within it. The inherent strength the Elizabeth Street/ Victoria Street • 2011 (21,080) of the larger open spaces around the Provide new Small intersection redesign grid will continue to be the main areas Local open spaces • 2026 (35,264) of open space for this community into through the core area of the central Investigate the the future. Gardens and forecourts to grid that form potential to secure Workers: buildings have formed an integral part green oases and at least part of the encourage people • 2011 (223,326) of the public realm, and more public church grounds to spend time as public open open spaces in this form is encouraged outside • 2026 (323,885) space, as part through the central city as it continues of the future to intensify. This is to accommodate an network expanding community of workers and of green oases Gap Analysis walking distance access residents in Melbourne 3000. There will to existing open space (gaps shown within the also be an increasing number of small central grid in white) green oases provided as retreat spaces within the central city grid. These spaces will not interrupt the strength and value of the grid but expand on the existing highly valued public open spaces such as the Library Forecourt, City Square Investigate and Federation Square. These spaces opportunities to provide will encourage people outdoors close to Small Local where they live and work and provide open space as places to pause, observe and rest. green oases in Diagram key (Refer also to page 12) The green character will be driven by the central grid Provide additional Small open spaces through in these major the core area of the central grid that form Sub–precinct for proposed Local sustainable water harvesting and reuse redevelopment sites retreats and encourage people and Small Local open space with the intention to create moist and to spend time outside cool spaces in summer that have a role in urban heat island effect mitigation. Continue to maintain some of the informal character to Opportunity sites include church grounds this open space in any future and others are to be identified as major redevelopment, particularly sites redevelop across the central city, the open grassed areas, and particularly where they are located with protect the space from further overshadowing to retain roads to the north and west, minimising sunlight access to the north overshadowing from adjoining built form. bank of the Yarra River

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Major Event Spaces require ongoing active management to support this use balanced with unstructured recreation and informal use Melbourne 3004 | South Yarra 21

Improve pedestrian/cycle Forecast in population change Precinct summary connection between Yarra Park, Goschs Paddock and = 5,000 people This significant system of parklands The Tan/Royal Botanic includes the Alexandra Gardens, Queen Gardens Melbourne 3004 Victoria Gardens, Domain Parklands, the Residents: Royal Botanic Gardens and Fawkner Park. Recognise the important role Melbourne • 2011 (1,630) The Yarra River is a unique and central Park has in holding major natural and cultural feature for Melbourne. sport and entertainment • 2026 (2,064) It is highly valued for sporting and events including the Australian Open cultural events, habitat corridor values, Workers: and the linear reserve along it is popular • 2011 (23,411) for cycling/walking, informal recreation, picnics, events and festivals. These • 2026 (28,000) significant parklands will continue to be Review and improved and managed for their Capital implement the Domain Parklands South Yarra City and Regional function catering to Continue to advocate to international, national and Victorian Master Plan for this retain informal public series of parklands access and use of this open Residents: visitors, as well as the local community. space when not in use for Increased visitation is forecast for the training purposes • 2011 (4,702) central city and this will place increasing Continue to maintain The • 2026 (4,724) demands on these spaces. The population Retain the Edmund Tan Track around the Royal living and working in this precinct is not Herring Memorial Oval Botanic Gardens which is Workers: forecast to change substantially, however for existing and future extremely well used by both recreation use; particularly the worker and residential • 2011 (1,488) increased use will occur from the central with forecast increase in population city population. Ongoing open space population • 2026 (2,700) in Southbank Royal Botanic Gardens are upgrade works and management will recognised as one of the focus on providing for visitors balanced most popular open spaces in Diagram key Melbourne walking distance access with maintaining the character and Gap Analysis (Refer to page 12) to existing open space (gaps shown facilities for the local and central business Continue to implement the in white) district population. existing Master Plan for Fawkner Park

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy North Melbourne 22

Forecast in population change = 2,000 people

Arden Macaulay urban renewal area Precinct summary Residents: Substantial change is proposed in two The focus in the west is a major new • 2011 (1,970) urban renewal areas in North Melbourne; Capital City open space near the

• 2026 (8,028) Arden Macaulay in the west and City proposed Arden Metro Station creating North in the east. In the east, a range of a focus and meeting place, large

Workers: new open spaces are proposed along enough to support a variety of informal with upgrades and expansion to existing recreational uses including festivals and • 2011 (3,244) parks. In the west new open spaces of events. Organised and unstructured sport

• 2026 (14,000) different sizes in the Arden Macaulay and recreational needs of the future urban renewal area will meet a variety of population will be provided for at the recreational needs. These will incorporate proposed Municipal open space in Dynon North Melbourne remainder of suburb natural features as a contrast to higher Rail Corridor (West Melbourne) and at Residents: urban densities, providing green spaces E–Gate. that contribute to mitigating urban heat Combined, the new and improved open • 2011 (9,680) build up and for the community to enjoy. spaces will contribute to the health and • 2026 (14,318) wellbeing of the community and assist with urban heat island mitigation. Workers:

• 2011 (6,135)

• 2026 (9,000)

Gap Analysis walking distance access to existing open space (gaps shown in white)

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy North Melbourne 23

Linear open space link

Two new Local open spaces with Upgrade to potentially improve good north/south access between sporting use, picnic facilities them and with natural features and continue to support the and a sense of escape from busy community garden traffic noise and movement To Royal Park Major upgrade Investigate improving access across Flemington Road to Upgrade in the context of the Royal Park new open space proposed in this local area New open space within walking distance of the local community Investigate potential expansion Upgrade of Clayton Reserve and North Melbourne Recreation Reserve Upgrade and investigate to form a larger open space opportunities to increase its size to meet population forecasts beyond 2026 as per the Arden Macaulay Structure Plan

New Local park designed to Proposed expansion complement the other nearby and upgrade open spaces Minor upgrade New Capital City open space New Local open space near the proposed Metro for for forecast population staging future events and for as part of City North local recreation use Structure Plan

New Small Local open space Investigate increasing linked to Moonee Ponds Creek the size of this open linear trail for local use space to create a functional Small Improve the Moonee Ponds Local park Creek linear link south to proposed Capital City and Utilise part of a road Municipal open space reserve to establish a at Docklands New Small Local open space within Utilise part of a road new Small Local safe and easy walking distance reserve to establish open space a new Small Local To incorporating natural Flagstaff Minor Diagram key open space features providing an Gardens upgrade escape from traffic Sub–precinct for proposed Local noise and movement and Small Local open space

Indicative location for proposed Improved open space corridor Refer to diagram key on page 12 Capital City open space along Moonee Ponds Creek for additional information.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Parkville 24

Forecast in population change Precinct summary Continue to develop existing Small Local and = 5,000 people Royal Park is the major open space in Local open spaces as the population grows Parkville and comprises the majority of Parkville this precinct. This extensive parkland Residents: provides for local community use as well • 2011 (5,773) as statewide and international visitors Capital City Trail link to the Zoological Gardens and the to Princes Park, Hardy • 2026 (5,826) State Netball and Hockey Centre. Ievers Gallagher Reserve, and Reserve provides an important local open Workers: space for the community in the south, • 2011 (27,109) and the Galada Avenue Reserve and the system of smaller open spaces provide • 2026 (29,221) for the community living and working in the Parkville Gardens area. While the Continue to implement Royal population is not forecast to increase Park Master Plan substantially in Parkville, the forecast population growth in the north and west Gap Analysis walking distance access Link to to existing open space (there are no gaps) areas of the municipality are likely to Moonee Ponds result in increased visitors to Royal Park. Creek and south to Arden Macaulay, With the ongoing implementation of the E-Gate and Docklands Royal Park Master Plan, improvements that benefit the local community will Some land adjacent to need to be prioritised in balance with Gatehouse Street, currently works to the Municipal level facilities. occupied by the Royal Childrens Hospital, to be returned to parkland in the future Diagram key (Refer to page 12) Investigate improved pedestrian and cycle Minor upgrade links across Flemington Road – refer to North Melbourne Precinct

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Port Melbourne 25

Long–term future open space link along the Yarra River if this area Forecast in population change Precinct summary changed in the future from a working port, recognising there are no = 2,000 people The non–residential land use and worker Connects to current plans for this and that the port operations are planned on road link community is forecast to continue to to continue Port Melbourne Provide a new sheltered Local open space to expand in Port Melbourne. The existing Investigate encourage workers outdoors, designed to include Residents: precinct is characterised by wharf and the potential natural features and some unstructured recreational to secure the facilities • 2011 (0) port related activities associated with foreshore of the Yarra River and Hobsons Bay. If the Yarra River • 2026 (0) this current land use pattern continues, as public open two additional Local open spaces are space and Workers: proposed in the vicinity of Turner Street. improve its condition and • 2011 (15,366) A future open space link is proposed character between the proposed new Local open • 2026 (26,000) spaces and Westgate Park that includes a combination of off–road and on– road links. Additionally, the Yarra River frontage, which is currently accessible between Pier 35 and Westgate Port, is Provide additional Local open to be upgraded, along with potential space for the worker community south of Lorimer Street Future change improvements to Westgate Park in There is no major change forecast in Port consultation with Parks Victoria. In the If this site is redeveloped in the future ensure an open space link is provided to improve connectivity to Westgate Park Melbourne. If this were to change in the future, longer term if the port related activities additional open space may be required. City of Melbourne to liaise with Parks Victoria regarding change at the South Wharves, a future The Westgate Punt potential upgrade to Westgate Park to improve its character continuous public open space is to be operates from Lorimer and use whilst protecting the environmental values established on the south bank of the Street landing to Spotswood (near Scienceworks) linking connection to Port Melbourne foreshore Yarra River between Docklands and the Bay Trail Westgate Park however, there are no Neighbourhood open space, would need Diagram key (Refer also to page 12) Gap Analysis walking distance access plans for the port operations to change to existing open space (gaps shown in the future. Additional open space, to be considered if there is a land–use Sub–precinct for proposed in white) including consideration of Municipal and change to include residential use in Port Local and Small Local Melbourne and increased urban density. open space

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Southbank | South Wharf 26

Forecast in population change Precinct summary = 5,000 people Southbank is forecast for continued Reconfigure Southbank Boulevard Upgrade with improved facilities to establish new Local open space for local use and urban heat redevelopment, attracting more people island mitigation Southbank to live and work in the precinct. The Establish a new Neighbourhood park at the Reconfigure Southbank Boulevard Residents: Southbank Structure Plan 2010 sets a former Boyd School site including natural to establish new Local open space • 2011 (13,107) vision for improving the sustainability features, green space and a diversity of Sturt Street cultural and liveability of Southbank facilities for the local community spine will potentially • 2026 (23,282) accommodating this forecast growth. New Small Local open space provide additional Additional open space located within within safe walking distance Capital City Workers: Southbank will contribute to this vision. for the local community open space • 2011 (37,796) Sections of the wide road reserves are proposed to be converted to small • 2026 (46,000) open spaces while other new open Improve shade spaces will be located amongst the high density areas providing quality Gap Analysis walking distance access to existing open space (gaps shown small green spaces that are protected, in white) creating a respite away from traffic noise and movement. The Structure Plan identified the opportunity to deck over the Burnley tunnel entrance to improve pedestrian connectivity in Southbank. If this occurs, this Strategy recommends New Small a large open space be established as Local open space in this part of the reclaimed area, providing sub–precinct New Small New Small organised and unstructured sport and Local open Local open space within space within recreational facilities and a range of other Investigate the potential Investigate potential safe and safe and to expand the size and informal facilities to create a community to reconfigure and easy walking easy walking Diagram key (Refer also to page 12) redesign to better meet recreation hub in Southbank. redesign to improve distance distance the needs of existing and Sub–precinct for proposed Local the function of these of nearby of nearby forecast population and Small Local open space open spaces population population If the future deck over the Burnley tunnel proceeds, Sub–precinct for proposed a large Capital City and Neighbourhood open space Municipal open space is to be established with Indicative location for proposed community sport, recreation Capital City open space and informal use

Indicative location for proposed Municipal open space

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy West Melbourne 27

Forecast in population change = 2,000 people Precinct summary Dynon Rail Corridor, E–Gate and City Change is forecast in parts of West A series of other smaller open spaces are North urban renewal areas Melbourne, including at E–Gate and in proposed in West Melbourne to improve Residents: the Dynon Rail Corridor urban renewal accessibility and diversity of open space area. A new Municipal open space is for the existing and future population. • 2011 (1,397) proposed in the Dynon Rail Corridor This includes providing additional open • 2026 (6,877) to provide organised and unstructured spaces that are protected from through sport and recreation facilities for the traffic with natural features as a contrast Workers: future population in the north–west. to the built urban character. Flagstaff • 2011 (1,397) Gardens will remain a key area of open In E–Gate new Capital City and Municipal space that is highly valued and well used • 2026 (3,931) open space is proposed. The Municipal by people living and working in West open space accommodates organised Melbourne and Melbourne 3000 West Melbourne balance and unstructured sport and recreation central city. facilities and informal use. The Capital Residents: City open space will be used for major • 2011 (2,423) events and festivals.

• 2026 (2,522)

Workers:

• 2011 (14,190)

• 2026 (15,811)

Gap Analysis walking distance access to existing open space (gaps shown in white)

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy West Melbourne 28

New Municipal open space Provide a new Capital City primarily for sporting open space in the E–Gate site, purposes for the future in proximity to Moonee Ponds population in Arden Macaulay Creek. This is primarily for future and the Dynon Rail Corridor Capital City purposes and may urban renewal areas include facilities for festivals and events Existing shared trail link along Maribyrnong River to Kensington Provide new Municipal open Existing shared trail link to space in the E–Gate site, in Negotiate to increase North Melbourne/Kensington proximity to Moonee Ponds the width of the open Creek and the proposed new space corridor along Capital City open space. the Maribyrnong River This is to provide both unstructured and organised sport and recreational use along with informal use

New Local open space potentially utilising existing road reserve

Investigate options to improve the function and useability of this open space

New Small Local Upgrade open space Continue to Existing shared trail link to implement the the linear trail upstream on Master Plan the west side of the river to improve Flagstaff Gardens Provide new Local open space in any Continue to improve the riparian zone future redevelopment of this area of Moonee Ponds Creek

Retain in short term and New Local open space Diagram key Existing shared trail link to Docklands potentially utilising one of along Monee Ponds Creek review function and use Sub–precinct for proposed Local in the context of E-Gate the larger road reserves but and Small Local open space redevelopment when away from major roads to this occurs provide refuge from Indicative location for proposed Indicative location for proposed Refer to diagram key on busy traffic Capital City open space Municipal open space page 12 for additional information.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy Implementation 29

Overview Responsibilities Funding Next steps The City of Melbourne will take a The projects in this strategy will be Funding for the capital works and land • Implement the open space contribution implemented over a 15 year timeframe. lead implementation role. Successful acquisition required for the projects rate/s in the planning scheme. To achieve the major new open implementation will require the following: identified in this strategy will be sourced spaces the City of Melbourne will • Undertake detailed investigations into • The Victorian Government contributes from a combination of: the provision of additional open spaces work in partnership with the Victorian to the future Capital City and Regional Government and the development • Council revenue. identified in the strategy in existing and open space network on behalf of the urban renewal areas. industry. The planning for the major new international and statewide visitors. • External grants from other State and open spaces needs to occur early in Federal Government agencies. • Continue to implement master plans for the planning process for urban renewal • The Victorian Government converts major parks including upgrade works. • Open space contributions with rates areas to ensure that adequate land area state owned land to provide the land of 8 per cent and 5 per cent to be • Plan for and upgrade existing open is set aside. Smaller open spaces will be area for the additional Municipal open space network. established in the City of Melbourne spaces as identified in the precinct created through site redevelopment and Planning Scheme. These contributions recommendations. conversion of government land. • The development industry provides will be required as a land and/or a cash open space contributions (cash contribution at Council’s discretion. or land) on behalf of the forecast population towards additional land area and capital works to achieve the strategy outcomes.

• The City of Melbourne provides facilities and open space land area on behalf of the existing community open space needs.

City of Melbourne Open Space Strategy