NOT all residents are happy with the City of Whittlesea’s draft 10-year master plan for Lauries Field in Doreen, despite council presenting it as a way to make the reserve safer, more accessible and environmentally sustainable.
Councillors endorsed the draft for public consultation at their July 22 meeting, inviting the community to have their say before a final version is adopted in late 2025.
Lauries Field has been a valued open space in Doreen since the mid-2010s, offering locals walking tracks, open grassed areas, and a lake that attracts birdlife. Over the years, the site has seen minor upgrades such as planting and pathway improvements, but as the population in Doreen has rapidly grown, so too have calls for safer access, better facilities and more diverse recreation options.
The draft plan sets out a staged vision through to 2035, with early works likely to focus on practical upgrades such as improved lighting, safer entrances, and new pathways for walkers and cyclists. Future stages would see more ambitious projects delivered, including play and fitness areas for all ages, additional shelters and seating, and a large-scale restoration of the lake into a wetland designed to improve biodiversity and water quality.
In a Whittlesea Review August 5 report, City of Whittlesea Mayor Councillor Martin Taylor said the draft was informed by earlier rounds of consultation and reflected community priorities.
Cr Taylor said in the report that Council had listened closely to community concerns around safety, the limited play opportunities for older children and teens, and the condition of the wetland area.
Cr Taylor asked residents to review the draft and have their say, adding that. community feedback would be essential to ensure the final master plan reflects the community’s needs, aspirations, and vision for the space.
But not everyone is convinced the draft delivers what the community wants.
Doreen resident Kerrie Harrison said she chose to live in the area because of the park’s natural beauty and wildlife and fears the proposed changes to the lake could damage its character.
“I fell in love with Doreen because of Lauries Field, the lake and the birdlife,” she said.
“If the lake is turned into a shallow wetland, we will lose much of that habitat.”
Ms Harrison also raised concerns about bushfire preparedness, pointing out that the area was identified as high risk after Black Saturday.
“Having a permanent water source nearby is critical,” she said.
Council has stressed the draft is not final and that all works will be subject to future budget allocations and external funding. The plan is expected to be refined later this year once the current round of consultation closes, with staged implementation beginning from 2026.
The community can view the full draft master plan and provide feedback via the Engage Whittlesea website or at upcoming pop-up sessions in Doreen.