What we heard

In December 2024, we consulted with the community and received great community feedback for Manton Reserve.

33 people provided feedback through an online survey and direct emails to the Open Space Planning Team.

These responses provided insights into community preferences and based on this, decisions have been made on how to prioritise features in the reserve.

Half court basketball court: 19 people requested this feature. Based on the overwhelming demand, we will proceed with this feature.

Exercise equipment: 4 people requested exercise equipment. While this feature has not been prioritised, the idea will be considered for future development, depending on available space and resources.

Nature play area: 7 people requested a nature play area. This feature has not been included in the immediate plans but will be considered in future planning stages, depending on available space and budget.

The feedback received has been crucial in shaping the development plans for the Manton Street Reserve. While the primary focus will be on the basketball court, efforts will be made to address additional community suggestions where feasible in future planning stages. The reserve aims to create an inclusive, enjoyable, and sustainable space for the local community.

About the space

Manton Street Reserve is in Heidelberg. This park is classified as open space in our Public Open Space Plan 2016-2031. Access to the reserve is via Manton Street. The park sits alongside the Hurstbridge trainline and contains natural elements like logs and rocks, seating, a drink fountain and over 20 newly planted trees, enhancing its greenery and appeal for local families.

The play space is scheduled for completion mid - end 2025

View the potential locations of the different design options for this reserve.

Your new park

As part of the Manton Street Reserve project, we plan to create a space that provides older children with an activity area that is currently unavailable to them locally. This initiative aligns with the Council's Public Open Space Plan and Strategic Actions 18 and 19, focusing on the design and accessibility of diverse play opportunities. We conducted a thorough site analysis, which allowed us to identify both the opportunities and constraints for the project. This analysis guided the Open Space and Planning team in developing a concept that aligns with the project budget, park classifications, Public Open Space Plan 2016-2031, and broader Council goals of establishing Local Play Networks and promoting Play Diversity (see definitions below).

Key considerations for Manton Street Reserve are:

• Play experience and diversity - considering diversity of play for different age groups in the neighbourhood.
• Usability - leveraging the potential of council-owned land to enhance services and better meet the needs of the community.

What we heard

In December 2024, we consulted with the community and received great community feedback for the renewal of Narvik Reserve.

13 people provided feedback through an online survey and direct emails to the Open Space Planning Team.

These responses provided insights and were used to adjust the design to better meet the needs of the community.

From the design options we provided, there was mixed feedback from the community. Based on this feedback, adjustments have been made to the design, particularly to ensure that it accommodates a wider range of age groups. Additionally, a nature play area will be added in response to community concerns.

While certain features such as shelters, barbecue areas, and skateparks are outside the scope of this project, adjustments to the design, such as the addition of a nature play area will be implemented. Continued collaboration across council departments will be essential to address the community's additional requests, ensuring the reserve meets the diverse needs of all its users.

View the final design concept to see how your feedback was incorporated.

About Space:

Narvik Reserve is Heidelberg West. This playground is classified as a local playground as outlined in playground classifications of our Public Open Space Plan 2016-2031. The reserve is accessible from both Narvik Crescent and Derna Street. The Narvik Reserve playground is well-utilised by nearby families and is now scheduled for renewal. We look forward to continuing to provide a high-quality play experience at Narvik Reserve and appreciate your support as we re-imagine the park for current and future visitors.

The playground upgrade is scheduled for completion mid - end 2025.

View the concept design for this reserve.

Your new playground:

As part of the improvement works for Narvik Reserve playground, we conducted a thorough site analysis. This analysis helped us identify the project's opportunities and constraints, guiding the Open Space and Planning team in developing a concept that aligns with the project budget, playground classifications, the Public Open Space Plan 2016-2031, and Council initiatives aimed at providing Local Play Networks and promoting Play Diversity (see definitions below).

Key considerations for Narvik Reserve playground are:

• Play experience and diversity - considering diversity of play.

• Seating and functionality - provide better seating and a path along the reserve.