1. Pedestrian Activity
Support walking as the primary means of access and movement within the Precinct and encourage pedestrian activity in public spaces.
About the project
The Heidelberg Activity Centre and Medical Precinct Public Realm Strategy was adopted by Council on 29 April 2019.
Overlooking the Yarra Valley, Heidelberg has always been a prominent settlement area of Melbourne. From the long period of Aboriginal history to the current population boom, the landscape of the suburb has changed dramatically over time.
With increasing development in the area leading to growth in the population, the change places pressure on existing open spaces which are limited. To help respond to this we have developed a draft Plan that aims to make sure that all residents, workers and visitors to the area can access and enjoy quality public spaces.
The Plan details possible improvements to existing public spaces, looks at better use of existing spaces where access is limited and outlines where future public spaces might be provided.
The importance of public open space
There are many benefits of having access to green and public open spaces. From improving the natural environment to community wellbeing, open spaces are needed to create healthy and liveable cities.
Current research demonstrates that access to open spaces also contributes to social and environmental outcomes. Providing healthy habitat for wildlife and plants and opportunities for people to interact and connect enhances physical and mental health and helps reduce the risk of developing chronic disease.
Draft Heidelberg Public Realm Strategy
The draft strategy sets out six strategic directions to guide how public spaces can be improved over time.
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2. Streetscapes
Provide pedestrian friendly streetscapes that are dynamic, support street life and are places for social interaction and recreation.
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3. Green and Open Spaces
Improve open spaces to provide diverse opportunities for passive and active recreation, social and community activities, visual relief, wildlife habitat, stormwater management, and to enhance the strong visual links with the Yarra Valley.
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4. Active and Public Transport
Seamlessly integrate the public realm with public transport and cycling infrastructure.
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5. Sustainability
Protect and conserve the natural environment while promoting sustainability within the public realm.
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6. Governance and Management
Promote and embed the management and execution of this Strategy within Planning and Design Policy across Banyule.
Recommendations
We have made some key open spaces recommendations to improve the existing open spaces in Heidelberg for the community. These recommendations have been highlighted in the draft Heidelberg Public Realm Strategy and take into consideration the key directions.
