By Kath Gannaway
A project estimated to cost close to $4 million is set to transform the old swimming pool and playground space at Warburton into an exciting recreation precinct for locals and visitors.
Yarra Ranges Council has released the draft plan for the Warburton Community Recreation Precinct (adjacent to the caravan park) and is seeking community comment.
The proposed precinct includes plans for a water play experience, open grass recreation area and upgraded play space and picnic facilities.
A community steering committee made up of representatives of local township and community groups spearheaded an extensive campaign of community consultation over several months starting in December, 2015.
Starting with a blank sheet, the committee said at the time that locals would drive the process with ideas coming from families, kids, youth and others in the community to make it work.
Presenting the draft plan at the Yarra Ranges Council meeting on Tuesday, 28 March, O’Shannassy Ward Cr Jim Child said that had indeed happened.
“The precinct is unique as it has been designed by the community with school students taking part in design studios,” he said.
A Community Design Festival was held involving students from Upper Yarra Secondary College and students from Warburton and Millwarra primary schools also took part in the community design process.
A whole of town workshop was held in April 2016 to discuss project ideas.
Cr Child said the precinct would enhance the well-being of residents and support the local economy by boosting the number of people visiting the township.
The draft plan includes conversion of the existing pool into a water play facility, climbing equipment and a ropes walkway for older children and a junior playground focused on developing fine motor skills and social skills development.
Fitness equipment, multi-purpose courts for formal and informal play, picnic and barbecue facilities, shelters, a toilet block with accessible facilities, car parking and rain gardens that will capture car park run-off and filter storm water leading into the Yarra River are also in the plan, along with a network of pathways and an open lawn area for informal use and outdoor events.
Warburton Advancement League president, Jeff Gill, said the steering committee was happy with the process which he said had been community driven, and with the outcome.
“It may need a bit of tweaking, but we’re very happy with the draft plan,” he said.
“It’s an exciting project and one of the best things to happen for Warburton.”
The feasibility study had indicated a budget of about $3.8 million to fully redevelop the site and based on current available funding, it was said the project might need to be delivered in two stages.
The report seeks to further develop the concept to detailed design and cost estimates and to attract further funding sources.
To comment on the draft plan: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
