Ecotherapy park continues to grow

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Romsey Ecotherapy Park vice president Sue Hayes and committee member Jenny Stillman.

STAGE two of the Romsey Ecotherapy Park is underway with detailed design planning taking place ahead of construction scheduled to start next year.

The second stage of the Romsey Ecotherapy Park will deliver a sensory therapeutic space and an open arts and culture space for people of all ages and abilities.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is working in partnership with the Romsey Ecotherapy Park committee to deliver stage two which will provide a unique experience for both Romsey residents and visitors to enjoy.

The park, located on the corner of Main Street and Palmer Street, is being developed in two stages.

The Romsey Ecotherapy Park committee and council conducted an extensive community consultation phase to develop a concept for the park in 2017.

The first stage, the active nature space, has been completed and includes landscaped areas, seating, paths, a flying fox and nature-based play elements including a challenging climbing forest – which was funded as a result of community voting through Pick My Project.

Romsey Ecotherapy Park president Raelene Mottram said the development of the park was entering an exciting new phase.

“We are extremely excited to be entering this new phase of the development of the park, creating a place for events as well as a place of wellbeing in what will be a beautiful nature setting,” she said.

“As the shire looks to recover from the pandemic, this new area of park which is ideal for rest and reflection is sure to be a drawcard for visitors and local residents alike.”

Council’s assets and operations director Shane Walden encouraged people to visit the park and see for themselves what had been achieved so far.

“This park is a fine example of how council and the community can work effectively together to realise a long-held vision and deliver a truly unique space for everyone to enjoy,” he said.

The State Government will contribute $718,000 to the project through Regional Development Victoria while council will chip in $702,000 and the Romsey and Lancefield branches of Bendigo Bank $80,000.

Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/Romsey-Ecotherapy-Park to find out more and keep updated on the progress of the project.