Greater Geelong council has adopted the final Portarlington Recreation Reserve Master Plan, which includes a new community garden, upgrades to the cricket and football pavilion and improvements to the space’s biodiversity.
Councillors adopted the master plan at its meeting on Tuesday, April 26 after a period of consultation with stakeholders and the broader community.
Councillor Jim Mason said the consultation included a total of 289 contributions, with 88 per cent of survey respondents indicating they were supportive or very supportive of the master plan.
“A lot of attention has been given to social equity and gender-neutral facilities to ensure essential sporting infrastructure components meet the requirements and expectations of the modern game,” he said.
The key recommended initiatives included:
* BMX/bike jumps;
* Redevelopment of the main football/cricket pavilion;
* Redevelopment of the cricket nets in a fully enclosed multi-use space;
* Redeveloped play facilities and bike area encouraging more diverse participation;
* Tennis and netball pavilion upgrades;
* Improved trail network through active and passive areas;
* Redeveloped wetland system;
* Duplication of the Bellarine Agricultural Society shed;
* New trees and planting to enhance shade and shelter; and
* A potential community garden.
Greater Geelong deputy mayor Trent Sullivan said the master plan would protect the “unique” elements of the recreation reserve.
“It really is a treasured space, which the community is very proud of and very passionate about and wants to protect at all costs,” he said.
“We have finally reached a product which I believe is the optimal outcome.
“It will encourage growth and redevelopment of the facilities.”
Details: yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/portarlington-recreation-reserve-master-plan-2021
