Vibrant Community Space in Melville Takes Shape

This project is moving forward with the support of the Australian Government’s Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program.*

Mayor Russell Aubrey said the initial construction phase would take place at the section of the site nearest the corner of Kitchener and Curtis Roads. “The playground is intended to be a safe, unique and vibrant environment invoking sensory stimulation for youngsters and a community feel for everyone. The final product will be no ordinary play area, as there will be interactive and unique elements, including musical instruments, embankment slides, sand play equipment, swings catering for different age groups and much more. The City is working to ensure provision of a variety of activities in which all age groups can participate,” he said.

“The playground will be family-friendly, with barbecues and seating, and accessibility will be factored into the design so that everyone is able to enjoy the park’s features. It is hoped once the park is complete it will attract and encourage young children, the youth and the elderly to participate in physical activities such as playing, jogging and walking. The overall park will also utilise the natural landscape – with one such example being artistic designs formed out of upside-down tree stumps. The City is striving to ensure the creation of a strong ecological connection between the site and its surrounding natural assets,” he said.

“Although everyone should be excited about the opportunities this public space will provide, we ask for the support and patience of local residents during the construction period. We are working closely with residents, and with the MORE Community Group regarding its use of the old school library building, which is leased to the group for community use. In the longer term, everyone will be able to enjoy everything this vibrant community hub has to offer, with the whole project to be completed by September 2010,” he said.

For more information about the project, see www.melvillecity.com.au/mps or contact Projects and Contracts Coordinator Laya Baker on 1300 635 845.

*The Australian Government provided $2.686m for the project from its $1 billion Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program. This is part of the Nation Building – Economic Stimulus Plan which is directly injecting money into local economies around Australia. Without this support the redevelopment of the former Melville Primary School site may not have been possible.