From 6 October until 7 November 2022, the community is invited to provide feedback on aspects of a new 35-hectare park in Melbourne’s east.
The Victorian Government has provided $10.5 million to establish the new park, temporarily named Healesville Freeway Reserve, on undeveloped land that runs between Springvale Road in Forest Hill and Boronia Road in Vermont.
Parks Victoria is seeking community feedback on draft plans for the park, which include proposed shared use walking and cycling trail that runs the length of the park, playscapes, picnic facilities, seating, drinking fountains, lighting, toilet blocks, wayfinding and storytelling signage.
The draft plan have been developed with input from a Community Reference Group of 30 local residents.
Situated on Traditional Lands of the Wurundjeri people, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation is working together with Parks Victoria on the development of the park and the new name.
Parks Victoria will manage the majority of the new park, ensuring natural and cultural values are protected and celebrated while allowing space for recreation.
Establishment of the new park follows community consultation between 2016 and 2018 on a future direction for the undeveloped parcel of land. Feedback from the public at that time supported access and trails, nature and biodiversity, and a suitable Aboriginal name for the new park.
To provide feedback on the draft park layout plan online or find details about in-person opportunities, visit engage.vic.gov.au/healesville-freeway-reserve.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Solar Homes Lily D’Ambrosio
“The Victorian Government is delivering new parks for Melbourne communities, boosting opportunities for people to get active and spend time in nature.”
“The appointment of consultants is a major milestone in this project to breathe new life into a strip of undeveloped land.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region Shaun Leane
“With new paths and connections, visitor facilities, and better protections for environmental and cultural areas, the new park is set to become a much-loved community asset.”