Analysis recommends sites for new playground and skatepark
Published on 14 July 2023
An extensive analysis of sites across Port Fairy has recommended a new district level play space in the Southcombe Park and Russell Clark reserve precinct.
The analysis completed by open space and play specialists Outlines over the past three months determined there was no ideal location in Port Fairy that could encompass a new district level play space and skatepark in one.
It in instead suggests a network approach, using areas of Russell Clark Reserve and Southcombe Park including the caravan park.
The network approach would support a play space built on the corner of James and Campbell Streets, on a vacant parcel of land next to Belfast Aquatics, with another play space built across James Street in the northern corner of Russell Clark reserve.
The two spaces would cater for all age groups and abilities and traffic calming measures would be put in place along James Street to allow for safer crossing between the spaces.
A skate park location is proposed within the Southcombe Caravan Park, close to the office building.
This would link with the new play spaces and existing tennis courts, swimming pool and stadium via network of footpaths to create an integrated and connected play and sporting precinct.
Mayor Cr Karen Foster said the community could now share their thoughts on the proposed play space and skate park sites, as well as design elements of the playspace, with two information sessions to be held tomorrow, in addition to an online consultation period until July 24.
“These projects are a priority for the community and the design and consultation program will help ensure that we can provide a play and skate experience that is valued by the community and visitors,” she said.
“The network approach will ensure all age groups and abilities can be catered for in the play space and will ensure a new skate park is built.
“I’d encourage everyone with an interest in this to get along to the information sessions at Southcombe Lodge tomorrow or attend the Zoom meeting on Tuesday evening.
“This is an exciting step forward and will create a really great space for children and young people of all ages to enjoy.”
The timetable for tomorrow’s information sessions is listed below.
- 9.15am – 9.45am
Consultant presentation, Southcombe Lodge
- 10am – 11am
Site walk and discussion, Start at Caravan Park entry
- 11am – 12.30am
Informal drop-in and discussion, Southcombe Lodge
- 1pm – 1.30pm
Consultant presentation, Southcombe Lodge
- 1.45pm – 2.45pm
Site walk and discussion, Start at Caravan Park entry
- 2.45pm – 3.30pm
Informal drop-in and discussion, Southcombe Lodge
An online consultation via zoom will be held on Tuesday July 18 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. To register email fiona.davey@moyne.vic.gov.au.
A separate period of engagement for the skatepark will be undertaken in partnership with the original skate park advisory group and skate park consultants Convic.