Chirnside’s new Urban Park is bringing the community together

There’s nothing like spending time with family and friends in an outdoor space.

Well, that’s about the get a whole lot easier for the community of Chirnside Park with the development of the Chirnside Urban Park right in the centre of town.

Councillor Richard Higgins of Yarra Ranges Council has said of the redevelopment on Belsay Reserve and Kimberley Drive that ‘’the Urban Park has the potential to become the town centre. It will be a vibrant hub of social and recreational activities with the flexibility and capacity to hold community events’’.

‘’This is a park envisioned by the community, for the community.’’ said Cr Higgins.

Plans for the park have been well underway since late 2019 with multiple rounds of community consultation. Community consultation provided valuable insight into what the local community need and want from the space. Key themes emerged such as easy access, safe and accessible pathways, parking, maintaining open green space and ensuring it is a safe and inviting place to meet, eat and play for all abilities.

The space will feature a regional playground, walking paths, amphitheatre, shelters, seating, water fountain, as well as an urban forest and grasslands for nature-based play for all ages. The space will also feature a custom designed play area.

‘’The Urban Park will be an innovative model for integrated community infrastructure that will fit with the Council’s plan for social and linked communities that promote health and wellbeing for both present and future generations’’ said Cr Higgins.

Thanks to the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, Council has been able to bring forward the delivery of this entire project. The project is being delivered with matched contributions totalling $4,500,000, from Yarra Ranges Council and the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, who are working together to create a space for everyone.

Breaking ground at the end of 2022, Chirnside’s Urban Park is due for completion by the start of 2024.