Community consultation is now open for the Westerfolds Park Paddle Sports Plan.
The plan is part of a feasibility study to investigate building, on-water and landscaping components to improve paddling and community facilities at Westerfolds Park.
It is being funded through a Community Sport Infrastructure Fund grant from the Victorian Government (through Sport and Recreation Victoria) in partnership with Manningham, Banyule and Nillumbik councils, Canoeing Victoria, Melbourne Canoe Club, Parks Victoria and Melbourne Water.
As land managers of parts of the site, Parks Victoria and Melbourne Water are key stakeholders in the project.
The proposed Westerfolds Paddle Sports Plan aims to improve facilities for park users including paddlers, Main Yarra Trail users and people participating in recreational activities.
It includes a Regional Paddle Sports Centre, and improvements to park and river access and the Main Yarra Trail at Westerfolds Park, Templestowe.
The community is encouraged to have their say to help inform the feasibility study.
Manningham Mayor, Cr Andrew Conlon said: “We want to understand the community’s needs and what facilities and improvements they would like to see.
“You can have your say online, via post or in person at one of our community information sessions at Westerfolds Park,” he said.
A major component of the proposed plan is the Regional Paddle Sports Centre. Westerfolds Park is the preferred location in the north-east region for this facility, given its existing amenities and capacity, and access to moving water.
Manningham Council CEO Warwick Winn said a new facility could include increased boat storage, multipurpose spaces, a kiosk and change facilities.
“Paddling facilities at recreational and competition levels would also provide opportunities for domestic and interstate tourism, and drive economic development,” Mr Winn said.
Canoeing Victoria Executive Mark Heggie added that it would provide improved infrastructure for canoe clubs, community recreation groups and general park users.
“The main purpose of the upgrades is to provide accessible, safe and welcoming facilities for all ages and abilities,” Mr Heggie said.
“This will result in increased participation in paddling and other recreational activities at the site.”
The feasibility study will also investigate facilities and features, including:
- boardwalks and spectator viewing areas for on-water activities
- improved river access
- improvements to the Main Yarra Trail to improve safety
- improved traffic management and car parking
- reduced detrimental impacts on the riverbank and surrounding parkland.
Consultation will close on Thursday 29 March 2018. The community will have an additional opportunity to contribute to the feasibility study in June, when further progressed detailed concepts, based on the March consultation, are exhibited.
The final report to be completed in August will include concept designs, costings and a funding advocacy plan. No funding has been sought for the delivery of the project.
For more information, visit yoursaymanningham.com.au/Westerfolds
Community information sessions, March 2018:
Westerfolds Park canoe launching area
(Vehicle entry at Fitzsimons Lane, proceed to riverside car park. Melway 33 G2)
Wednesday 14 March, 5.00pm to 7.00pm
Tuesday 20 March, 9.30am to 11.00am
Sunday 25 March, 10.00am to 2.00pm
