A new playground and splash park precinct will soon come to Hill Top Park in Doreen.
City of Whittlesea Chief Executive Craig Lloyd joined Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell and Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage to officially turn the first sod of the project earlier this month.
The Federal Government provided $1.5 million from its Investing in Our Communities Program, while the State Government provided $500,000 from its Open Space for Everyone – Better Parks and Playgrounds Program, and council provided $900,000.
The park will feature a splash pad with jets, misters, and water channels, along with a playground including multiple slides, climbing nets, and trampolines for older children, and another featuring a small cubby, slide, and rocker for younger children.
Nature play will be encouraged through the inclusion of logs, boulders, and paths, while a picnic shelter, barbecue, and upgraded car park will help make visits more comfortable for users.
New public toilets will be built on the site, including a Changing Places facility to cater for people with higher needs.
Mr Lloyd said the playground and splash park’s design had been informed by more than 700 submissions during two community consultation phases.
“Council is committed to providing residents of all ages and abilities with quality recreation spaces so they can enjoy active, healthy lifestyles,” he said.
Mr Mitchell said he was thrilled to be delivering on this commitment for McEwen.
“We made a promise to fund this vital project for Doreen and we are getting on with that job, with [this month’s] start of works being a critical step forward,” he said.
“It means that people aren’t leaving to go and do something on a hot day … there’s more elements, so the park can be used for open space, relaxation, holidays, [and a] water park.
“It’s a prime example of where you’ve got three levels of government working together in the interest of the community first … we’re bringing outcomes that actually matter to people. This is something that everyone’s going to enjoy.”
Ms Kathage praised how the improved facility would change the community.
“We’re about to see this place transformed into a family-friendly hotspot for the north,” she said.
“It’s great to have something closer to home for people, so you don’t have to travel … to Mill Park or …. Wallan. We’re going to have our very own regional play space and splash park.”
Construction is expected to begin in October 2024 and continue through until mid-2025.
