Open Space Strategy - City of Greater Bendigo · City of Greater Bendigo: Open Space Strategy.,...

April 2005

Open Space Strategy

City of Greater Bendigo

Open Space Strategy Volume II

Contributed to by:

HM Leisure Planning (lead consultant)

Inspiring Place Pty Ltd

Conceptz Pty Ltd

Centre for Land Protection and Research

City of Greater Bendigo

Parks Victoria

Department of Sustainability and Environment

Sport and Recreation Victoria

City of Greater Bendigo: Open Space Strategy., 2004 Volume 2: The Open Space Strategy ii HM Leisure Planning Pty Ltd./Inspiring Place Pty Ltd./Conceptz Pty Ltd./Centre for Land Protection Research

CITY OF GREATER BENDIGO OPEN SPACE STRATEGY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Open Space in Greater Bendigo: An Overview 1 The Amount and Distribution of Open Space in Greater Bendigo 2 Open Space Provision and Use Trends 4 Conclusions and Recommendations from the report 5 Chapter 1 THE OPEN SPACE STRATEGY

The Layout of this report 8 The Study Purpose and Objectives 9

Chapter 2 THE OPEN SPACE STRATEGY FRAMEWORK

A Definition of Open Space 10 The Open Space Vision 12 Open Space Principles 13 Open Space Objectives and Strategies 15

Chapter 3 OPEN SPACE CATEGORIES AND HIERARCHY Open Space Categories 22

Open Space Hierarchy 25 Local Open Spaces 25

Sub-Municipal Open Spaces 26 Municipal Open Spaces 27 Regional Open Spaces 28 State Open Spaces 29 National and International Open Spaces 30 The Size of Open Spaces 32 Open Space Amenities and Services 33 Permissible and Non-Permissible Uses 34 Chapter 4 OPEN SPACE DEVELOPMENT BY CATEGORY Outdoor Sport 35 Linear and Linkage 43 Bendigo Bushland Trail 43 Heathcote-Tooborac Aqueduct Trail 46 O'Keefe Rail Trail 47 Bendigo Creek Linear Park 53 Key Trail Loops, Cross City Trails and local trail links 57 Parks 60 Proposed or undeveloped 64 Landscape and Amenity 65 Conservation and Heritage 68 Chapter 5 OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT

Greater Bendigo City Council 74 Partnerships Between Stakeholders 76

Open Space Planning 77 Draft Guidelines for Acquisition and Disposal of Land 77

Subdivision Applications 78 Funding for Open Space 80

City of Greater Bendigo: Open Space Strategy., 2004 Volume 2: The Open Space Strategy iii HM Leisure Planning Pty Ltd./Inspiring Place Pty Ltd./Conceptz Pty Ltd./Centre for Land Protection Research

Urban Forest Interface 81

Open Space Development Council Design Guidelines 82 Open Space Management Responsibilities of Stakeholders 83

Chapter 6 OPEN SPACE DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES 84

Stage1-5 Recommendations Other Recommendations Appendix 1- Directions and recommendations by geographic area Appendix 2- Directions and recommendations- Trails Appendix 3- Mapping Appendix 4 - Open Space Priorities Map

City of Greater Bendigo: Open Space Strategy, 2004 HM Leisure Planning Pty Ltd/Inspiring Place Pty Ltd/Conceptz Pty Ltd/Centre for Land Protection Research

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Open Space in Greater Bendigo: An Overview Open space is one of the City of Greater Bendigo’s most significant assets and makes a major contribution to the quality of life enjoyed by visitors and residents, to the sustainability of the environment and to the image of the City. Open space in Greater Bendigo exists in a range of forms. These include native forests and bushland; water courses in both a natural and managed form; former rail reserves and water races; reservoirs; old mining sites; natural and highly developed informal parklands; developed sporting facilities and race tracks; playgrounds; reserves for an array of essential utilities and services, and land which will be developed for future needs. The open space resources of Greater Bendigo range in size from small, local reserves of a house block or less through to extensive forest reserves the largest of which covers over 10,000 hectares. The resources are managed by an array of organisations, the most significant of which are the City of Greater Bendigo, the Department of Sustainability and Environment and Parks Victoria. In addition to the public open spaces, there are extensive privately owned open spaces in Greater Bendigo. Some of these are dedicated as open space while others still may require purchase in the future to protect them. With the exception of properties under Trust for Nature covenants, these resources have generally not been included in this Study.

The importance of long term planning for open space- Rosalind Park being planted and Rosalind Park today – Bendigo’s major urban parkland.


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The Amount and Distribution of Open Space in Greater Bendigo The inventory of Council and Crown assets reviewed in Volume 1 of this report indicated that there are presently 1,734 public open space sites in the City of Greater Bendigo. However, this must be regarded as indicative rather than as a final measure of existing resources as some land parcels have been counted separately when it is known that they are contiguous with others and for operational purposes, thereby constitute one site. In addition, detailed assessments of Crown reserves are still being undertaken in Greater Bendigo and these are identifying sites which are no longer required for Crown purposes. Some of these can be expected to become Council or Crown open space reserves in the future. The open space reserves in the City of Greater Bendigo currently total 69,547.94 hectares (or 695.48 square kilometres). This amounts to 23.19 percent of the total Council area of 2,999 square kilometres. By any standards, this is an extensive level of provision of open space and far outstrips that of many, if not most, other Victorian Councils. The smallest open space site is less than half a house block in size while the largest, a section of the Greater Bendigo National Park in the north of the City, had an area of 12,294 hectares. At least four sites are over 2,000 hectares and another 12 sites are between 1,000 and 2,000 hectares. The average size across all open space sites is 40.11 hectares. On the basis of type, Conservation and Heritage reserves account for close to 57 percent of the total area of open space in the City, Utilities and Services reserves 38 percent and Undeveloped sites 2.1 percent. Parks and Outdoor Sports reserves accounted for only 1.5 percent of the total area of open space but 18.5 percent of all open space venues. On the basis of their hierarchical position, Local reserves are the most common in the City, accounting for 52 percent of all sites. This reflects the large number of small, informal reserves in the City. Sub-municipal venues, with 23.6 percent of the total sites are the second most common. State and National venues are understandably the least common, the combined number of these accounting for only 6.5 percent of the total. There were significant variations in the distribution of open spaces across Greater Bendigo. Not surprisingly, given the extent of State and


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National parks in Greater Bendigo, rural areas account for 86 percent of all open space in the City. The Heathcote-Rural East and Elmore –Rural North areas alone account for three-quarters of all open space. In urban Bendigo, the southern, northern and northwestern suburbs had between 2,800 and 2,900 hectares of open space each. By comparison, the eastern suburbs had far fewer sites and around 30 percent less area while the central Bendigo urban area had only 127 sites totalling 153 hectares. Substantial variations also occurred in the distribution of different types of open space across the City with a number of suburbs being deficient in several categories. Overall, the extent of the spatial variations in provision suggest that the ability of residents to access a good mix of opportunities would be quite limited in some parts of Greater Bendigo. It should be noted however, that while some suburbs had comparatively poor provision, this was sometimes offset to a degree by better provision in adjoining areas. Yet, the eastern suburbs and the northern corridor areas were most poorly provided for and large parts of the north-western suburbs also had lower provision. Overall, the findings suggest that there are shortfalls of provision in a number of areas of the City. A number of the undeveloped sites offer significant potential and outdated, small or under-used sports grounds may also warrant review. Finally with regard to the existing provision of open space across the City of Greater Bendigo, the analyses reported in Volume 1 indicate that: there are considerable opportunities to further the concept of the “city in a forest” through land swaps, covenants, acquisition and replanting programs; Bendigo has developed an extensive trail system that can cater for a range of recreational activities ; significant areas of open space in the City are prone to flood and wildfire threats and will consequently require special management practices to be applied to them; many open spaces contain important mining and heritage sites; few areas of high quality native vegetation remain in urban Bendigo. Outside the urban areas, all areas of native vegetation have extensive recordings of threatened flora and fauna and it is evident that open space management practices in areas of natural vegetation will need


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to have a strong focus on the protection and enhancement of existing conditions if these resources are not to be lost. Open Space Provision and Use Trends Key trends include: a community recognition of the inherent value of a diversity of open space types and consequent action to provide and protect representative samples of each; a dramatic growth in natural resource-based recreation activities; the continuing popularity of outdoor sports in the Australian community and a dramatic growth in some junior sports; the recognition of the links between recreation and health and a continuing growth in the demand for trail based activities such as walking, jogging and cycling as a result; In addition to the above, research into the growth in demand for sports fields conducted by Greater Bendigo Council in 2003 has shown a marked, long term growth in demand, ground use which is at capacity, sub-standard conditions at a number of sports reserves and inadequate provision in a number of areas experiencing major population growth;


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Conclusions and recommendations from the report Key conclusions from the report include: The need for management plans for the ongoing and coordinated management of major urban open space sites. The need to develop a shared management model for open space with Parks Victoria and Department of Sustainability and Environment. There is a lack of coordination across Council units in terms of acquisition, disposal, development and ongoing management of open spaces. There is a lack of design guidelines for developers and staff for the provision and protection of native vegetation and fauna reserves. There is a lack of sustainable development in terms of landscaping and amenity. Whilst trail development has occurred and developed well throughout the city, maintenance and ongoing management has been poor and has not had adequate resources attached to enable consistent maintenance and improvements. The same can be said to some extent for playgrounds, which are not promoted or upgraded regularly. Whilst many very good master plans exist for major developments of open space sites around the municipality, there is a trend to complete only the first few items in a plan before moving on to another project. Signage of reserves and trails appears to be inadequate. There is a need for additional sporting facilities and a need specifically for regional level facilities capable of hosting multi team tournaments of a high standard. There is significant urban pressure on the condition of the National Park fringe and other important Nature Reserves within the urban area. There is a need to recognise wildlife corridors through the urban area. Local structure planning is crucial for the developing areas of Strathfieldsaye, Jackass Flat, Huntly/Epsom, Maiden Gully and ultimately Marong.


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Detailed consideration needs to be given to parcels of crown land, which may have some community value for Council but are deemed to be surplus to DSE requirements. The question of how much land Council can practically manage also needs to be addressed. Although lack of Outdoor Sport open space was raised as an issue, in a general survey, residents indicated that trails were used the most frequently and also topped the more needed category. The next most frequently used areas were Conservation and Heritage and Park sites. Many of the suburban reserves are very small and have limited capacity for mixed uses. A small number of sites are well developed with supporting amenities which has led to over use (e.g. Lake Weeroona). Park land with natural vegetation in urban Bendigo is generally poorly managed and is not sustainable. Many of these issues are related to the need for a more systematic approach to open space provision and management with a lack of resources being highlighted as a major problem. Based on these and other more specific conclusions a comprehensive list of recommendations have been listed in Chapter 6. In summary these include the following: The acquisition of land for further Outdoor Sports sites in Epsom, Maiden Gully, Strathfieldsaye and Marong to reflect proposed residential development, availability of water and capacity to host regional/state level competitions. Continue to work toward completion of existing master plans such as:

White Hills Botanical Gardens Master Plan 1997

Canterbury Gardens Master Plan 1997

Rosalind Park Master Plan 2004

Long Gully Creek and Linear Park Master Plan 1997

Spring Gully Creek Landscape and Management Plan 2001

Sports Ground Needs Analysis 2004

Crusoe Reservoir Master Plan 2004

Lake Neangar - Lake Tom Thumb Development and

Management Plan 1996


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Kennington Reservoir, Strathdale Park and Grassy Flat Creek

Landscape and Management Plan 1999

Provide management plans for major sites including: Rosalind Park Lake Weeroona Major trails (O’Keefe, Bendigo Creek, Bendigo Bushland) Lake Neangar White Hills Botanical Gardens Complete the “Circle of Forest” around the city through connections to the North and West. Provide greater funding to enable an ongoing maintenance and improvement program for local sports facilities and walking/cycling trails. Provide funding for upgrading of signage of reserves and trails across the municipality. Provide resources toward promoting trails and playgrounds across the municipality. Investigate through the cycling/walking strategy the feasibility of further development of trail loops using mostly existing trail network. Investigate feasibility of extending O’Keefe Rail Trail to Heathcote. Acquisition of land including areas adjoining the O’Keefe Rail Trail, part of the O’Keefe Rail Trail, land for outdoor sports, continued acquisition through subdivision for trail networks along creek lines (e.g. Sheepwash Creek, Strathfieldsaye), an area adjoining Albert Roy Reserve, an area adjoining Gateway Park, Kangaroo Flat and investigation of highlighted crown land sites which may be useful for future community use. Also that consideration be given to acquisition around Canterbury Gardens to expand the gardens and improve security. Consider disposal of various site particularly some small playground and undeveloped sites. Extend the Bendigo Creek Linear Park North to Huntly and South to Crusoe Reservoir as well as providing a route through the centre of town from Golden Square to Rosalind Park/Chinese Gardens.


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Chapter 1 THE OPEN SPACE STRATEGY The Layout of this Document This Volume presents the Open Space Strategy. The Strategy has been developed from the review and evaluation of the material provided in Volume 1. This Volume is divided into 6 Chapters. These are: Chapter 1, which includes an outline of the purpose and objectives of the Study and of the approach that was followed in the preparation of the Open Space Strategy. Chapter 2 provides a definition of open space; a vision for open space acquisition, management and use across Greater Bendigo; a set of principles to guide decisions on open space issues, and a set of objectives to be achieved through decisions on open space issues and the broad strategies to be pursued to achieve them. Chapter 3 of the volume provides a classification of open space types, a recommended hierarchy of open space resources and open space sizes, together with recommendations regarding the amenities and services to be provided at open spaces. Chapter 4 provides an overview of the open space provision and standards by type in the City of Greater Bendigo. It provides an assessment, commentary and some concluding recommendations on each type of open space which links directly to the recommendations detailed in Chapter 6. Chapter 5 addresses the issue of open space management by the City of Greater Bendigo, the opportunities for partnerships with other agencies, open space planning processes (including in particular, acquisition, disposal, and sub-division applications), open space development, and management responsibilities. Chapter 6 provides a comprehensive set of recommended open space initiatives designed to enhance the provision, development, management and use of open space in the City.


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The Study Purpose and Objectives Open space makes a major contribution to the quality of life, the quality of the environment and the image of Australia. Australian governments at every level have played a major part in reserving land for open space purposes. Yet the changing economics and changing community values of recent years, together with rapid rates of growth in many urban centres, have put unprecedented pressure on much of the open space, which exists. The purpose of this project, as specified in Council’s Brief was: “to develop a clear, strategic approach to open space planning and management.” The collective objectives of the Study, as detailed by the key stakeholders involved in the project, are: Provide Council with an improved understanding and integrated approach to the planning and management of different types of open space. Develop a comprehensive inventory and classification system of existing open space in order to guide the development of future management strategies/policies of these areas. Improve communication between stakeholders with an agreed process of making changes to open space inventories developed by all organisations. The aim here is to ensure that all databases are updated on a regular basis with any changes to open space inventory. Develop principles for open space management and development to ensure an integrated approach to open space planning across all stakeholder organisations. Develop recommendations and actions for implementation aimed at achieving a linked system of quality open space that reflects the demonstrated needs of the Bendigo community. Identify and map a system of open space links that can establish connections between important open space reserves. Through the development of a classification system, construct a set of criteria for evaluating open space based on suitability and need for active or passive space.


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Develop a process to enable Council to effectively manage the collection and allocation of developer contributions for open space both in respect to funds and land allocations.


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Chapter 2 THE OPEN SPACE STRATEGY FRAMEWORK A Definition of Open Space For the purposes of this Open Space Strategy, open space is defined as: Public or private land which is retained for human and natural purposes and which is available for use on a permanent or managed basis. Within the above definition, ‘open space’ is land that is entirely or predominantly open ground with few or no buildings on it. Buildings that exist primarily service the related open space areas and their service requirements e.g. parking, access roads or toilets. Land can be classified as open space when it contains other community facilities such as halls, sports stadiums and health centres, provided that the primary management of the land is focused on its open space functions. ‘Managed’ open space refers to strategic or day to day activities that direct or control use to ensure that the intended purposes of the open space are achieved and are sustainable. Open space may be either publicly or privately owned. It typically includes such lands as parks, gardens, sports grounds, trails, utility or habitat corridors, forests (both natural and planted), water bodies and conservation areas. Agricultural land may well be included in some definitions of open space. Within the above definition, the ‘human and natural purposes’ of open space include: • the provision of space for passive, active, formal and informal

recreational activities and for appropriate 'secondary' educational, scientific or research activities;

• provision of linkages for human movement between open spaces,

community facilities and/or development nodes; • corridors for fauna and flora movement; • the protection, preservation or enhancement of natural areas and

systems for their intrinsic ecological or environmental value;


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• the protection, preservation or enhancement of natural and managed areas for ecological, biodiversity and environmental maintenance purposes (e.g. climate and green-house gas amelioration, offsetting forest clearance, for water quality maintenance, storm water management, air pollution control) and for appropriate 'secondary' recreational uses;

• the protection, preservation or enhancement of Aboriginal or

historic heritage sites, sites of landscape amenity or scenic value and/or areas which contribute to the sense of place of a community (including its ambience, spiritual value, sense of history etc.) and for appropriate 'secondary' recreational uses;

• retention of areas for utilities, services or buffers between

incompatible land uses and which can also support appropriate 'secondary' recreational uses; and

• retention of areas to ensure that future open space needs are met.

The Greater Bendigo National Park is an important natural open space asset with a unique mix of box and ironbark tree species. The Park has many values including recreation, conservation, heritage and cultural. The Park needs protection from urban development as expansion pushes to the fringe of the area. The Greater Bendigo National Park represents the largest open space in the municipality.


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The Open Space Vision The vision for open space in the City of Greater Bendigo is derived from the City’s overall vision statement. The open space vision is: Bendigo will be a liveable City where open space resources are planned, managed and developed on a sustainable basis to protect and enhance meet the demonstrated needs of the community

Rosalind Park surrounded by urban development with part of the Greater Bendigo National Park in the distance.


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Open Space Principles A number of principles underpin the open space vision. The principles direct that the acquisition, retention, management, development and use of open space under the control of the City of Greater Bendigo and other management agencies will be organised so as to: • contribute to the ecological, social and economic well being of the

region; • ensure open spaces are accessible to all members of the

community regardless of place of residence, age, socio-economic status, ability/disability, cultural background, values and aspirations of community members;

• support multiple uses of open space where this is safe and

consistent with sustainable protection of biological diversity, and practical use open space to strengthen the distinctive role and character of Greater Bendigo;

• ensure that open spaces are managed in a sustainable manner as

promulgated in the National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development. This will encompass safeguarding the welfare of future generations; improving equity within and between generations; protecting biological diversity and maintaining systems essential to supporting life. Further, the National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development states that ‘where there are threats of serious irreversible damage, lack of scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent the threat from being realised’ (Melbourne 2030, 2002, p. 29);

• use open space to link other features of the landscape such as

other open spaces, community facilities and development nodes; • ensure that open spaces are managed in an innovative, creative

manner which will ensure flexibility and responsiveness to existing and changing community needs, environmental pressures and economic circumstances;

• ensure that open spaces are managed to a high standard and

where developed, to a high standard of design;


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• ensure that open spaces are managed in an economically and ecologically sustainable manner at the policy, planning, design and day to day action levels; and

• provide opportunities to manage open space in partnerships

between all levels of government and the public and private sectors.

Lake Weeroona- an important urban open space with many uses- no master plan or management plan exists to guide development or control use.


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Open Space Objectives and Strategies Five objectives have been developed to achieve the vision of the Open Space Strategy. These, together with the strategies to be used to achieve them, are listed below. Objective 1. Orderly acquisition, retention, development, use and, as deemed appropriate, disposal of open space This objective directs that open space will be acquired or otherwise reserved (through zoning, development overlays, development controls and covenants), developed, and as appropriate, disposed of, to protect natural assets in a sustainable manner and meet the identified needs of the community. This objective will be achieved through application of the following strategies: Application of the native vegetation management framework (2000) and described in City of Greater Bendigo - Urban Vegetation Assessment (Centre For Land Protection Research, Agriculture Victoria. 2001 p. 17) Acquisition of open space buffer zones surrounding or between land uses which have an identified or potential conflict so as to minimise or eliminate those conflicts. Acquisition, zoning and/or otherwise reserving open space to ensure the retention of significant resources for landscape, nature and heritage conservation, habitat protection and enhancement, utility and service, recreation, community activity, linear and linkage, enhancing visual amenity in the city and wider region, contributing to a sense of place and other assessed purposes. Zoning of land, waterways and lakes as open space so as to protect these resources from alienation where their attributes are such that they warrant reservation for natural or human purposes. Retention or gaining of public ownership of land adjoining lakes and waterways and the resumption of links along these resources as an outcome of land use rezoning or subdivision. Exchange of land which is less appropriate to reserve for open space purposes for alternate land which will more effectively achieve open space objectives and purposes.


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Further development of open space resources where infrastructure services exist, in areas which can accommodate further urban growth, where access is supported by strong transport links and in townships supported by regional transport routes. Avoidance of urban development in areas where adverse economic, social and environmental impacts on either or both of the open space and other land uses could be expected. Provision of replacement parkland of equal or greater size and existing or potential quality if overwhelming community good, not private profit, made it necessary to alienate existing open space. Preparation of management plans to guide the use and operation of all types of open space and, as deemed appropriate, the preparation of master plans to guide specific development directions for individual sites, and Retention of surplus government land with significant environmental, recreational and other open space values.

Master Plan for Crusoe Reservoir provides a strong basis for development- a management plan is also important for major open space such as this and others of a similar standard


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Objective 2. Protection of Open Space Values This objective directs that individuals and agencies responsible for open space resources in the City of Greater Bendigo will take action to ensure that the values inherent in them are protected. This objective will be achieved through application of the following strategies: Protecting, rehabilitating, improving, reinforcing and promoting the natural and cultural values of open space; Using open space as part of wider environmental maintenance processes (eg: for climate amelioration, biodiversity, water recharge, sustainable water use and re-use, storm water management, salinity management, reduced reliance on motorised transport, air and water pollution control, flood protection); Establishing a comprehensive, adequate and representative (car) system of open spaces in the city and protecting areas with high scientific and natural values and of heritage and cultural significance; Undertaking programs to revegetate open space with Indigenous species and to remove noxious weeds, pests; Providing sustainable, quality open spaces; Reducing existing or potential land use and environmental conflicts between different recreational and natural area management activities; Ensuring that the uses made of open space are appropriate and sustainable; and Providing education and awareness on environmental issues and values to the general community.


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Objective 3. Provision of quality environments and experiences This objective directs that all agencies and individuals responsible for open space which is available for public use will develop, manage and program use in a manner which ensures that the community will enjoy and benefit from it. This objective will be achieved through application of the following strategies: Providing a diversity of opportunities for quality experiences, enjoyment and beneficial outcomes; Ensuring that the uses of open space are suited to the biophysical character of the assets used, that uses in natural areas enhance an understanding of the nature of the assets, and that uses are compatible with surrounding land uses; Ensuring the protection and enhancement of the use of open space for alternative forms of transport eg: cycling, walking, wheelchairs; Managing, providing appropriate accessible facilities on, and programming the use of open space so that it encourages sporting and informal and social recreational, cultural and educational uses which contribute to a cohesive and creative community and to community health and well-being; Managing the use of open space so that compatibility between uses is optimised and sustainable multi-use is achieved; Providing additional open space in areas which are under-provided for, in areas of higher and growing population density as a result of for example, urban infill and transit cities policies, and in areas with concentrations of young children, older residents and those with socio-economic constraints; Interpreting open space settings for their natural, cultural and social values; Pursuing equity in the distribution of, and access to open spaces within the City; Pursuing the distribution of open space such that there is equitable and accessible provision for the whole community regardless of age, socio-economic status, ability/disability and cultural background; and Using open space to provide links to other open spaces, community facilities and activity nodes.


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Objective 4. Using open space as a catalyst for social and economic development This objective directs that Council and other agencies responsible for open space will, as appropriate, promote its use as a means of contributing to the social and economic development in the City of Greater Bendigo and of the wider region. This objective will be achieved through application of the following strategies: Acquiring and developing open space that contributes to strengthening the social and economic capital of the community; Acquiring and developing open space to create enhanced connectivity, accessibility and safety; Protecting open spaces that can be used for educational, scientific, research and tourism purposes; Undertaking activities, which use and promote the recreational, heritage, cultural and environmental values of open space; Protecting open spaces that, if appropriately developed and maintained, will contribute to economic development; Protecting open spaces that improve the amenity and value of residential, retail, industrial and rural areas; Acquiring additional open spaces in areas undergoing urban infill or higher density development; Protecting natural resources which add to the appeal of the City; Promoting the use of open space for regional, state, national and international leisure, recreation, environmental and other events ; Where forest industry and extractive mining infrastructure occurs, ensure they are on a sustainable basis and that the environment as well as the, health and amenity of the community is protected; Protecting quality agricultural land; and Promotion of Bendigo’s attributes as a “City in a Forest”.


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Objective 5. Application of sound management practices This objective directs that Council, other land owning or managing agencies and private owners of open space will develop and apply appropriate and effective management practices to open space. This objective will be achieved through application of the following strategies: Developing the capacity and skills to make high quality, consistent, co-ordinated, informed and transparent decisions on open space planning and management in Council, other agencies, and amongst groups and individuals responsible for open space; Continued compilation of a comprehensive asset data base and site audit process; Developing responsible and ecologically sustainable land development practices which minimise environmental impacts; Ensuring that all open space development accords with legislative objectives, management plans and policies; Ensuring that developing community access to natural open space areas meets a demonstrated need, is dependent on the natural environment or cultural values of the area, and enhances community appreciation of those values; Adoption the Parks Victoria Levels of Service Strategy and Community; Access Strategy as planning, management, community involvement and open space promotion tools by Council and other agencies and private owners responsible for natural, rural and semi-developed open space resources; Application of the principles and use guidelines of Recreation; Framework for Box-Ironbark Public Land to recreational and tourism use of all Public Land and relevant Council-owned Conservation and Heritage sites; Siting open spaces which are major users of water in such a way that they can make effective use of on-site storage, stormwater run-off, waste water and recycled water; Providing clear direction on and assisting with responsible open space design, management and use;


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Continued application of a developer contributions scheme; Taking action to increase community awareness of and involvement in open space acquisition, planning, management and use issues; Developing and managing open space through appropriate partnerships within and between all levels of government, the public and private sectors and the community; Advocating for the community on open space issues; Consulting with and encouraging individuals and community groups, and the regional indigenous community, to take an active role in open space decision making, especially when major changes to park management and use are contemplated; Preparing management plans and/or explicit statements of management objectives for individual open spaces or grouped categories and hierarchies of open space; Ensuring that the exclusive occupancy of open space and the provision of buildings on it is confined to activities which are consistent with the management objectives of the open space; Integrating the provision of open space with other significant community assets eg: schools, hospitals, shopping and commercial centres, water storages, flood basins; Managing open space in an economically and ecologically sustainable manner at the policy, planning, design and day-to-day action levels; Developing the capacity to acquire, plan and manage a sustainable system of open space; and Developing and implementing an open space use and impacts monitoring program and the capacity to respond to the findings of this. The foregoing definition, vision, principles and objectives should be used to guide open space acquisition, disposal, development, management and use across Greater Bendigo.


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Chapter 3 OPEN SPACE CATEGORIES AND HIERARCHY Open Space Categories The following classification of open space is recommended for adoption by the City of Greater Bendigo. The classification will be used to guide open space acquisition, planning, development, management and use and as a source of information for the public about open space.

Open Space Category and Description 1.Parks These are informal sites which have had their physically character and/or vegetation modified to a lesser or greater extent in order to support community recreation, community development and well-being uses. They provide ornamental gardens, play facilities, community gardens, informal lawns for picnics and relaxing and other similar unstructured activities. Examples: Local informal reserves, playgrounds, Rosalind Park Landscape and Amenity These resources are reserved primarily because of their attractiveness, to protect the character of an area and to provide a buffer between different types of land use. They include eg: irregularly shaped, wooded sites adjoining residential and industrial areas, ridge lines, river flats and sections of road reserves. From a recreation perspective, depending on size, they support walking, conservation and educational activities, and creative arts. Examples: Plantings around former mining sites; small urban reserves Conservation and Heritage Such sites serve to protect and enhance natural and cultural resources. These resources can support a wide diversity of non-competitive, active or intellectually-focused leisure pursuits. Examples: Box-Iron bark National park; former mining sites of heritage importance Linear and Linkage These venues range from small pathways linking residential streets in urban areas through to municipal and regional trails. They are used for walking, cycling and nature study activities as well as serving as drainage serves and corridors for animal and bird movement. Examples: court head path links, Bendigo Bushland Trail, Bendigo Creek Linear Park, O'Keefe Rail Trail


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Outdoor Sport These venues usually support team sports. They are also used for sports practice, carnivals and fairs, and emergency meeting points. They frequently have indoor halls, club and social facilities, play equipment, BMX, skate and walking/cycle tracks associated with them. Examples: Queen Elizabeth Oval, Lords Raceway, Brennan Park (swimming pool component) Utilities and Services These sites include water and irrigation reservoirs; road, pipe-and powerline reserves; Council depots; sewerage treatment pondages, airports and flight lines for airports. The recreational uses made of these sites include linear trails, model or full size aircraft flying areas, bird observing/conservation and boating. Examples: Pipe and power line easements; water supply dams; sewerage works; Bendigo airport Undeveloped These sites are zoned as open space to protect their assets or to meet future community needs. Undeveloped land may include land in rural areas, in proposed/new residential areas, abandoned sites (eg: former industrial land) or urban renewal areas. Research will generally be required to determine the most approp-riate future use(s) of these sites. Examples: Former mining land, disused water races; urban fringe farm land Proposed Land which it is proposed to be zoned or acquired for open space purposes to protect it or adjoining uses or to meet assessed community needs once development of an area proceeds

The following points should be noted in relation to the open space classification: Where a number of different agencies own or manage open space which services the needs of the same community or communities, the categorisation should be agreed to and used by all agencies or it should at least be recorded by all agencies which are using different data base systems so they under-stand those being used by others The broad nature of the categories is designed to allow managerial action and asset use changes over time in response to the varying needs for open space, for leisure and recreation activity, for asset protection, habitat protection and services provision Private and commercial open spaces can be included or excluded from any listing dependent on Council/other agency needs. They have not been included in this Study


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The categories include open spaces, which have been reserved for a wide range of purposes, not just leisure and recreation as is often the case with open space studies. These are included as they are major resources in their own right and may offer major leisure and recreation opportunities as a ‘secondary’ or ‘tertiary’ use, even if only for a short time. Their inclusion is a strength of the classification as it highlights first, the scope of open space resources needed and second, the multi-use potential and capacity of many sites The initial category to which an asset is allocated is deemed to be its "primary" category or principle purpose or use. If more detailed master planning is carried out at a particular site, it may be appropriate to subdivide it into several smaller components, which could then be given different sub-categorisations. For example, the Bendigo Creek reserve may be managed primarily for water management purposes. However, it may also have important 'Linear and Linkage' values while sections of it may have an important 'Conservation and Heritage' role. The asset would thus need to be managed and used in a manner, which achieves each of these purposes in a sustainable fashion and in a manner, which does not compromise the primary role. The specific uses to which each resource is put should be determined by a needs and environmental sustainability assessment pertinent to each particular category and then, each venue in that category. Recreation use of Box-Ironbark public lands should be in compliance with the recommendations of the report, Recreation Framework for Box-Ironbark Public Land (Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2003).


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Open Space Hierarchy The following open space hierarchy is recommended for adoption by the City of Greater Bendigo. The hierarchy will be used to guide open space acquisition, planning, development, management and use and as a source of information for the public about open space. Local Sub-municipal Municipal Regional State, and National/international. Each level of the hierarchy is defined in the following paragraphs. Local open spaces Local open spaces predominantly or totally serve small rural localities, small townships, and neighbourhoods or suburbs within the urban areas of the City. They are classified as local because: They are generally small in size and thus have a little or no capacity to serve the whole Council or region; They provide opportunities which are similar to those available at a number of other locations and thus do not attract people from far away; and They have been designed and sited in a way, which ensures good access from nearby areas and possibly even, discourages access and use from wider areas. Playgrounds, ball sport kickabout areas, small reserves and neighbourhood pathways are common local open spaces. Local Playground- Anderson Street, North Bendigo.


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Sub-municipal open spaces Sub-municipal open spaces serve substantial and often geographically-defined sections of, but not the whole of, the municipality because of one or more of the following: Size: they are general larger than local venues, but are usually too small to meet all municipal needs; The more specialised uses made of them (and thus the larger service areas required); Their relative isolation from other similar assets; and Their less frequent provision due, generally, to larger land requirements to achieve viability, higher provision costs and for some types of opportunity, the size of catchment needed to ensure viability. Single or dual field sports grounds, larger playgrounds, linear trails, community halls, local pools, informal parks and bushland reserves are common sub-municipal open spaces.

Cooinda Park represents a park of sub municipal importance.


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Municipal open spaces Municipal open spaces serve the total community living in the Council area. They are classified as municipal because: Depending on their nature, they are used by individuals, groups or teams, which are drawn from across the whole municipality; They are provided by Council or others for residents of that Council. Other Councils provide their own venues for their residents; They are often the only resource of their type in the municipality; The size of the land requirements, higher cost of provision and, for some types of use, the size of catchment needed to ensure viability, mean that no more than one or two venues can be provided by a Council; and They have been sited so as to be accessible to the whole Council community. Municipal level open spaces may include sports grounds, City/town centre reserves, botanic gardens, walking/cycling trails, airport and sewerage works land and undeveloped reserves retained to meet future municipal needs.

Bendigo Creek Linear Park represents a Municipal open space asset.


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Regional open spaces Regional open spaces serve the needs of the residents of a number of Councils. They are classified as regional for one or more of the following reasons: They are larger than other facilities of the same type and can accommodate a far larger number of visitors than municipal-only venues; They need a substantial market or service area to remain viable and they need to draw that market from the City and its surrounding region. The City in which they are based generally has greater drawing power than others in the area. That said, nature-based regional facilities are sited at the natural asset, not in the largest regional city; They support either a wide mix of uses or high specialisation of use; They are generally of high quality; They are generally costly to provide and/or maintain; They are often unique to the region; They have environmental, heritage, amenity or other special significance; and There is a low frequency of provision or natural occurrence. Regional open spaces frequently include golf courses, major sports grounds, long distance trails, and various types of heritage and nature reserves eg: forests, lakes, rivers, wetlands, waterfalls.

Bendigo Athletics Facility- a high standard facility of regional importance


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State open spaces State level open spaces have characteristics similar to regional venues but serve the whole State because their characteristics are generally considered to be even more marked or significant than those of the regional venues. State level open space can occur in a particular part of the State because: A Council, the government or some other body has determined that that is the best or politically most astute location Because the provider desires to offer the asset at that location, and If it is a nature-based resource, because the location is unique, or is one of few occurrences or the best of that type of resource in the State. State level open spaces in the City of Greater Bendigo include sections of the Box-Ironbark forests, heritage mining sites and the Chinese museum and gardens.

Chinese Gardens, Bendigo- adjoining Rosalind Park and providing a destination point of interest along the Bendigo Creek Linear Park


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National and international open spaces National and international level open spaces have characteristics similar to State and regional venues but serve the whole country and can attract interstate and potentially, overseas visitors and or uses. This is because they are unique or because their characteristics are generally considered to be more marked or significant than those of the State and regional venues. The sites that would be listed as being of National or International importance would be limited to the Box-Ironbark forests and some former mining sites. Some of these sites are considered worthy of World Heritage listing

Greater Bendigo National Park- of National and International significance


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Several further important points warrant noting in relation to an open space hierarchy: 1. Sites should be classified by their intended position in the

hierarchy, not by their present position if the two are different. This provides the basis for changes in management, resourcing, use or other processes in relation to sites, which presently do not match their intended position

2. The hierarchical classification should be agreed to and used by all agencies wherever possible. If it is not intended to be used by all agencies, efforts should be made to include it on all databases so that comparable data can be drawn from them and so that each agency understands the role designated for the various resources, which are available

3. Agencies, which own and/or manage open space, should seek to achieve as wide a hierarchy of opportunities across all types of asset

4. An open space resource should not be given a higher hierarchical position than is justified

5. Managing agencies should not allow users to determine where a venue fits in the hierarchy through inaction by it or another responsible authority. Adopting a hierarchical framework allows planning and management bodies to "direct' the outcomes they want to achieve for particular sites and for the region as a whole within the context of wider needs and issues, to develop a balanced diversity of opportunity types and a balance in the spatial distribution of these

6. Designating where in a hierarchy each resource fits allows open space managers to counter demands for action at venues which it is known are not appropriate for development and to encourage and support action at other more appropriate sites, and

7. By being clear as to the purpose of each open space resource is, a managing agency can more carefully "target" how it allocates open space support resources and more efficiently and effectively direct, control and schedule use. This delivers certainty to users and enhances the capacity to attract funding and support from external agencies.


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The Size of Open Spaces The following chart provides indicative minimum open space sizes by open space type and hierarchy, which are recommended for adoption for Greater Bendigo. The following points should be used as a further guide to open space sizes: 1. Open spaces should be of sufficient size and be designed to

allow multi-use, diversity and flexibility of use 2. Sites supporting activities, which are no longer being pursued,

should have the capacity to be changed to support other uses 3. Sites should be of a size sufficient to support several levels of

activities pursued at them 4. All future sites acquired for sporting activities should be of the

order of 2.5 times the initial projected need, and

Open Space Category and Description

Indicative Sizes

1. Parks

Minimum sizes: Local, 1 ha. Sub-/Municipal, 2 ha.. Municipal and above, 5+ ha. Some venues may need to be substantially larger depending on the primary use

2. Landscape and Amenity

Minimum 2 m. width and 4 m. length but dependent on plant species used, purpose, associated land uses and open space types and relevant government guidelines

3. Conservation and Heritage

Minimum to be determined by primary uses and in particular, the area required to ensure environmental sustainability

4. Linear and Linkage

Units of 100 metres to 1 kilometre long dependent on location and destination. Access/egress points at a maximum of 250 m. apart in urban areas 3 metres min. width- optimal width is at least 15 metres

5. Outdoor Sport

Local, 5 ha. Sub-Municipal, Municipal, 10-15 ha. Regional, 15-40 ha. depending on uses

6. Utilities and Services

Dependent on any requirements of primary use(s) and applicable regulatory requirements

7. Undeveloped Dependent on projected use but otherwise minimum of 1 ha.

8. Proposed Dependent on projected use but otherwise minimum of 1 ha.


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Open Space Amenities and Services As different types of open spaces play often very different roles, so they need differing types and levels of resourcing, amenities and services. The amenities and resources, which should be assessed for provision in association with all categories and hierarchies of open space, are listed below. This should be used as a provision checklist when developing or managing each individual open space venue. Additional amenities of relevance to specific classification categories may also be needed at some types of venues. This will depend on specific issues pertaining to those venues. The most important amenities and resources are: Interpretive, advisory/warning and directional signs, brochures and other relevant information Paths and paving styles consistent with site character, site use and Australian Design Standards and OH&S requirements Facilities and services which comply with the Disability Discrimination Act (1992) and Council’s Community Access Plan (2001) so as to serve people with disabilities Seats and, as appropriate, weather and picnic shelters Water supplies Fire and other emergency vehicle access Toilets Car parking Safety lighting Access and exit routes/points in case of personal attack, flooding, fire or other dangerous conditions Club, social and pavilion/change facilities Protective fencing Utilities: water, gas, electricity, firewood Telephone access, and Fords or bridges over streams/rivers.


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Permissible and Non-Permissible Uses A key element in the management and protection of any open space is facilitating appropriate uses and the elimination of inappropriate uses. A range of activities should be excluded from open space venues unless historic practice has allowed the use, unless special exemptions have been applied for and approved, or unless special support facilities have been provided. These uses are likely to include: 1. Motorised vehicles (other than in parking areas and on

public/service roads) 2. Domestic/commercial car/truck parking (except by venue users) 3. Camping 4. Permanent built structures (unless servicing outdoor activities) 5. Collecting firewood, plants or other materials or artifacts 6. Vehicular access routes to private property 7. Extensions of private gardens, buildings 8. Storage of goods 9. Rubbish dumping 10. Dogs off leashes (except in declared areas) 11. Fires outside purpose-built structures, and 12. Uncontrolled domestic or feral animals. In general, the principles to be applied when assessing whether a proposed use should or should not be excluded are: Whether the proposed use would impact detrimentally on the open space resource from a physical, aesthetic, use or other perspective, which would require additional management or other inputs to alleviate Whether the proposed use would create a precedent which could lead to inappropriate changes in the resource or in its predominant use(s), and Whether the proposed use would restrict the effective achievement of other uses or purposes. Historic uses, which contravene these principles, should be progressively excluded. Where historic use occurs or where there is evidence of blatant or extensive inappropriate use of open space resources, consideration should be given to the progressive application of (a) amnesty periods during which non-conforming uses are to be removed; (b) a directive that exemptions will expire with changes in land ownership (but may be renegotiated); (c) fees for non-conforming uses; (d) penalties, and (e) removal of non-complying uses.


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Chapter 4 OPEN SPACE DEVELOPMENT BY CATEGORY This chapter provides specific detail on observations and initiatives related to the acquisition and development of open space across the municipality. The observations are divided into each category of open space as outline in Chapter 3 and provide the basis for a sustainable development plan, which will be expanded upon in Chapter 6. Outdoor sport Observation 1 Lack of water to sites has affected the standard of outdoor sporting space Recommendations Introduce larger sites for outdoor sport close to usable water supplies – e.g. Epsom wastewater plant, other untreated irrigation lines. Introduce synthetic surfaces for sports to increase frequency of use and effectively drought proof facility. Undertake a water management plan and investigate water conservation opportunities. Specific Actions Acquire land in the Epsom-Huntly corridor with the aim of accessing some water through the Water Treatment Plant Acquire land in the Strathfieldsaye area with access to the Eppalock irrigation line, in line with future residential development Continue discussions with Bendigo Amateur Soccer League and Victorian Soccer Federation regarding the development of synthetic soccer surfaces. Work toward development of such a facility in conjunction with these two organisations and Sport and Recreation Victoria. Provide opportunity for further development of second synthetic hockey pitch based on current need. Investigate new technologies such as ground moisture sensitive irrigation systems, more efficient irrigation systems. Sow drought tolerant grasses


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Observation 2 There is a shortage of venues in comparison to similar municipalities and based on current participation levels. There is a lack of higher-level facilities available for regional or state level competitions. Recommendations Acquire land that provides for several regional level sports complexes. Acquisition for these facilities should focus on the key areas for population growth- namely Strathfieldsaye, Epsom and Maiden Gully. The size of this land should ultimately be approximately 2.5 times that of initial requirements. Continue to develop current sites where economies of scale can be achieved through the construction of available open space as outlined in Council’s Sports Ground Needs Analysis. Negotiate with schools on the adequate provision of safe sporting facilities made available on a regular basis for community use. Provide a level of recurrent funding toward this project in order to make some contribution toward these facilities. Specific Actions Acquire land in the Strathfieldsaye area adjacent or within the proposed residential development space of approximately 30 Ha. Acquire land in the Epsom-Huntly corridor preferably with highway frontage of approximately 20-30Ha with a policy of acquiring neighbouring property when possible. Acquire land in the Maiden Gully area adjacent or within the proposed residential development space of approximately 20-30Ha. The development of these new areas should reflect the development of the residential strategy with Epsom being a priority. Develop existing sites with priorities being; Miller Street Crusoe Heights Albert Roy Reserve- (acquisition required to consolidate site) Strathdale Park Truscott Reserve Bendigo Regional Athletics Centre Maiden Gully Recreation Reserve Strathfieldsaye Recreation Reserve


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General location map of Strathfieldsaye sites for acquisition.

General location map for Maiden Gully showing potential sites.


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General area in Northern Corridor (Epsom/Huntly) for acquisition of land for recreation.

Miller Street site- an important space for an inner urban park development with capacity for some junior sport use.

Albert Roy Reserve- capacity exists for further development for both passive and active recreation pursuits as per the Eaglehawk – Bendigo Open Space Link Study 1997


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Observation 3 With few exceptions the majority of outdoor sports facilities and associated amenities are of less than satisfactory quality and could not be expected to attract more than local use. There is a lack of clarity on management responsibilities and budgetary allocation for maintenance of buildings and surrounds at outdoor sports reserves. Recommendations Undertake an assessment of sporting grounds in order to develop a hierarchy of facilities. Improve facilities through the implementation of a staged capital works program. Provide an Asset Management Plan for outdoor sports reserves through the existing Council STEP Asset Management Program. Develop more defined roles for various units within Council regarding the maintenance of buildings and surrounds/perimeters at outdoor sports reserves and make a budget provision for this. Specific Actions Audit all sporting reserve buildings and surrounds and make specific recommendations on improvements required. Develop a STEP based Asset Management Plan for Outdoor Sports Reserves based on this audit. Develop a capital works program in order to improve the condition of existing facilities through a specific audit and prioritized works program. Clarify the management responsibilities for each unit involved in the management of outdoor sporting reserves through the Council Open Space Planning group as outlined in Chapter 5. This will need to clarify budget, maintenance and facility planning responsibilities.

California Gully Oval- an example of the poor quality of several local sporting pavilions


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Observation 4 Most outdoor sporting reserves are single purpose in nature with little attention given to alternate use opportunities on reserve perimeters. Few modern sports sites have been developed. Recommendations Development of further sports reserves that service local needs and adequately cater for regional and state competition requirements. Where appropriate master plan existing sites to accommodate alternate uses. Develop more defined roles for various units within Council regarding the maintenance of surrounds/perimeters at outdoor sports reserves and make a budget provision for this. Specific Actions Acquire sites to be developed as regional sporting complexes in key areas of Epsom, Strathfieldsaye and Maiden Gully. Priorities for master planning are Maiden Gully, Strathfieldsaye, and proposed site at Epsom and Miller Street sites. Coordinate management responsibilities between Parks, Property and Recreation Units. This needs to be addressed through the development of management plans.


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Observation 5 A level of community feedback indicates that urban sporting reserves are under pressure by surrounding residents to be used in a variety of ways for passive recreation (walking, jogging, informal play with family etc.) Recommendations Consider relocating some clubs out of the urban area with some sport reserves given over to other open space uses. Assess the usefulness and consider acquisition of undeveloped parcels of Crown Land available through the Department of Sustainability and Environment for future development. Particularly investigate the opportunities to develop open space around the Proposed Community Focussed Developments and the Core Development Zones as outlined in the Greater Bendigo Residential Development Strategy. Specific Actions Ensure that the “City in a Forest” project undertakes an assessment of urban Crown land sites involving input from Council on potential usage of sites in the urban area for various open space uses. Provide input on open space uses and development as community focused developments are progressed.


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Observation 6 Inappropriate location and use of open space in Golden Square Industrial Estate. A site currently adjoining light industrial sites is used by the Bendigo Pony Club on the corner of Allingham Street and MacDougall Road. This should be disposed of and the club moved to a site possibly in Longlea Lane adjoining the O’Keefe Trail, Longlea Recreation Reserve and the Adult Riding Centre- Peppercorn Park. Recommendations Relocate the Bendigo Pony Club to a more appropriate site possibly in Longlea Dispose of most of site as zoned for Business 3 activities- retain section which can be used as part of future cross city trail. Specific Actions Negotiate relocation with Bendigo Pony Club Negotiate land purchase at Longlea Negotiate with the Crown on a contribution raised from the sale of the current site toward the acquisition costs of the site in Longlea.


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Linear and Linkage - Major Trails Bendigo Bushland Trail The Bendigo Bushland Trail represents approximately 60-70 kilometres of trail network mainly traversing the natural forest and park areas surrounding the city. Observation 1 Signage of the trail is confusing in many places and the trail is difficult to follow because of this. Recommendations Improve signage of the trail and maintain to a high standard Specific Actions Audit the trail signage and provide recommendations on improvements required. Allocate a capital contribution toward these signage upgrades Develop specific management guidelines with Parks Victoria on responsibilities for maintaining a high standard of signage Provide accurate brochures indicating the trail route

Comprehensive signage audit is required for the BBT


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Observation 2 In some places the trail is in poor condition due to wash away of trail or exposed rocks etc. Recommendations Improve the standard of the trail surface to one that is comfortably traversable by foot or mountain bike. Specific Actions Audit trail condition Allocate funds toward staged works to improve condition of the trail surface Develop specific management guidelines with Parks Victoria based on the Level Of Services Plan developed by Parks Victoria. These guidelines need to allow for the following; Inspection and auditing of trail on an infrequent but regular basis Allocation of funds by both Parks Victoria and City of Greater Bendigo for maintenance works, signage and promotion Delineation of management responsibilities on trail- clarify geographical boundaries of management responsibility. Agreed action plan of specific works for the trail over the next two years to improve trail condition. Some of the trail improvements suggested from community and agency consultation included: • possible use of Pratts Park Road (Strathdale) • investigate the option of a new trail loop being developed along

the western boundary of Bendigo aerodrome and continuing north on public land to join Fairway Drive

• investigate the option of a new trail loop using Howard Street and Burnside Road from Epsom to Tackaberry Road

• investigate the option of a new trail loop using open space along Eaglehawk C reek between Burnside Road and Lake Tom Thumb, and

• review of erosion problems along Burns Street (near Diamond Hill) and whether Autumn Gully provides a better connection between Spring Creek Reserve and Diamond Hill.


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Observation 3 The potential to create ‘inner loops’ off the main Bendigo Bushland Trail has considerable merit as it provides new opportunities to: • undertake shorter distance rides/walks • improved access from the residential areas to the adjoining

bushland • reducing illegal trail bike riding, firewood removal, rubbish dumping,

and allows marketing of the trails as separate trail features.


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Heathcote- Tooborac Aqueduct Trail (Potential Trail) The potential for a long distance trail following a disused aqueduct between Caledonia Reservoir (near Heathcote) and Tooborac has been identified by the Department of Primary Industries. The proposed trail would link together available crown land parcels. No further investigations could be undertaken within the resources of this project, and consequently the proposal will need site investigation and preliminary feasibility assessment. Whilst located some distance from Bendigo, it may have sufficient attraction (eg. aqueduct history, environmental values) and low costs of development (eg. existing Crown land, flat terrain) to be a future recreational trail that would attract user interest. The bulk of this trail is located within Mitchell Shire however the trail has potential for providing tourist activity for Heathcote.


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O’Keefe Rail Trail The O’Keefe Rail Trail extends 19 kilometres from White Hills to Axedale following an old railway line reserve. The Railway was initially constructed by Andrew O’Keefe and extended from Heathcote to Bendigo. Observation 1 The trail is in poor condition, lacking some signage and has a number of dangerous sections where riders could “drop off” large dips in the trail or the trail is badly corrugated etc. Recommendations Improve the standard of the trail to ensure safety and remove confusion about route. Specific Actions Undertake an audit indicating where signage is required and other works to improve the surface condition and safety issues. Council allocates capital funds toward an upgrade of the O’Keefe Trail to provide a higher standard facility. That Council allocates responsibility for the trail management to the recreation unit and allocate a recurrent budget for trail maintenance.


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Observation 2 The trail has no “destination” but simply ends on the outskirts of Axedale. Recommendations Provide signage and appropriate destination point at the end of the existing trail in Axedale Specific Actions Allocate funds toward providing appropriate signage to create a destination for the O’Keefe trail at Axedale.


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Observation 3 The O’Keefe trail has the potential to connect through to Heathcote Township and develop as a major tourism feature for Heathcote and Bendigo. Tourists could then have the option of coming to Heathcote from Melbourne, riding to Bendigo, staying overnight in Bendigo and riding back to Heathcote the next day. Recommendation Investigate feasibility of extending O’Keefe Trail to Heathcote Aim to develop the O’Keefe Rail Trail to Heathcote as a final destination point. Specific Actions Undertake work required to detail further the correct route for the trail from Axedale to Heathcote Undertake a plan of works required and management requirements for the trail based on a successful route to Heathcote.


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Observation 4 Opportunity exists to connect the O’Keefe Trail to the northern aspect of the Bendigo Bushland Trail Recommendation Extend trail north to meet up with Bushland Trail as the trail meets Epsom. Specific Actions Map specific track route and negotiate use of land with DSE


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Observation 5 Opportunity exists to connect the O’Keefe Trail to an 80 Ha section of bush land adjoining Binks Road and Somerset Park Road. Council has recently had a parcel of land donated to them by a resident adjoining the O’Keefe Trail and one further piece of privately owned land separates this from this larger tract of Crown and Council owned land. Recommendation That consideration be given to the acquisition of the remaining property to create a continuous parcel, which could potentially become a nature reserve linked to the O’Keefe Trail. Specific Actions Valuation and investigate interest from landowner in sale of property. Acquire property or option on property Develop a specific plan for the overall site including management, signage, interpretation, uses etc.

The yellow parcels of land are currently under Council control- the red line indicates the O’Keefe Trail. The light blue parcel should be considered for acquisition.


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Observation 6 A small parcel of land that the O’Keefe Rail Trail traverses is in private ownership. This should be purchased by Council as soon as possible. Recommendation Valuation and investigate interest from landowner in sale of property. Acquire property.

Private property through which the O’Keefe Rail Trail runs


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Bendigo Creek Linear Park The Bendigo Creek Linear Park (BCLP) is a valuable urban open space asset linking suburbs to the north and south with Central Bendigo. Observation 1 The BCLP currently ends at Lockwood Road and could continue to Crusoe Reservoir (Bendigo Beach). Recommendation Continue to extend the Linear Park Specific Actions Map the proposed route and plan development with allocations through the Capital Works Program

Creek reserve from Lockwood Road, south toward Crusoe.


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Observation 2 The BCLP has potential to connect through to Huntly and the Northern section of the Greater Bendigo National Park with an extension along the creek from Howard Street, Epsom. Recommendation Continue to extend the Linear Park to the north to connect Huntly and National Park Specific Actions Using work completed through the Huntly Recreation Strategy and Epsom/Huntly LSP map the proposed route for an extension of the linear park Plan development and provide allocations through capital works programs to complete.

Creek reserve north from Howard Street to Epsom/Huntly


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Observation 3 The BCLP has no safe and identifiable connection between Golden Square and the Rosalind Park Precinct Recommendations Consider pathway linkage along Creek Street Investigate logistics of going along the creek line through to Rosalind Park

Signage on the Bendigo Creek Linear Park- an audit and maintenance is required.


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Observation 4 The Bendigo Creek Linear Park provides the main spine for recreational trails within the urban area. It currently extends from Rosalind Park in the city centre to Epsom in the north along the Bendigo Creek. The extension of the trail southwards could involve: development of a new trail link from Rosalind Park to the junction of High Street use of existing tracks/footpaths on open space reserves and/or local streets from High Street to Lockwood Road, and development of a trail along Bendigo Creek reserves and/or local streets from Lockwood Road to Crusoe Reservoir. A continuous south-north recreational trail along or close to the Bendigo Creek would provide significant benefits for the overall trail network by: becoming the high use recreational trail corridor within the City that links the commercial, civic, entertainment, major open spaces with considerable residential areas of the City (i.e. services both commuting and recreational needs); becoming the central spine off which important cross – City trail links would connect with other residential areas, open spaces and other features; facilitating a range of trail loops within the trail network thus providing a diverse set of opportunities and experiences for a range of possible users; and becoming a key selling point for the marketing and promotion of Bendigo as a place to live or visit.


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Key Trail Loops and local trail links. Observation 1 Bendigo is ideally suited to further development of recreation trails given: the extent of the existing trails including the 65 km Bendigo Bushland Trail which encircles the City the multi-use capacity of the trails to cater for different recreational users including residents and visitors the ability to extend the above trails to create new recreational opportunities within the City and from the City to surrounding natural areas and some outlying settlements the suitable topography for trail development including a number of valleys that lead to the centre of Bendigo and provide scope for linear reserves with trails the diversity of open space areas within the City and the ability to link these with trails the potential to provide a quality recreational experience related to the unique character and features of the Bendigo area eg. heritage and cultural values, and the ability to promote Bendigo as a major recreational trail destination within Victoria.


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Observation 2 As part of this strategy, a trail system has been designed to connect trails to the following key open spaces and community facilities within the suburbs of the City. The trails are broken into three broad areas of; Cross City Trails Key Trail Loops Local Trail Links (see Appendix Three for mapping) Recommendations Cross-City Trails The potential cross-city trails to consider are; Bendigo Creek Linear Park

O’Keefe Rail Trail with connection to Eaglehawk through the use open space within the Eaglehawk-Kerang Railway Route to connect Lake Neangar to the Bendigo Creek Linear Park.

Bendigo Creek Linear Park and Trail (Holdsworth Road) via the Long Gully Creek through North Bendigo to Ironbark and to the Schweppes Centre (not developed) and also north to Long Gully (not developed)

Bendigo Bushland Trail via Strathdale Park on St Aidans Road (or alternative streets) to connect to the Spring Gull y Creek Trail.

Key Trail Loops The proposed trail network provides some key opportunities for trail loops in the long term – many of these can build off sections of the Bendigo Bushland Trail and the Bendigo Creek Linear Park and Trail. These loops could be marketed with special features of interest to appeal to different users. These trails would generally be longer than more local based trails so as to attract interest from outside the local area. Some examples of the potential for key trail loops are: Spring Gully Reserve – One Tree Hill – Kennington Reservoir - Spring Gully Reserve Lake Weeroona – Spring Gully Reserve – Diamond Hill – Golden Valley – Bendigo Creek – Lake Weeroona Rosalind Park – Kangaroo Flat Botanical Gardens – Diamond Hill - Golden Valley – Bendigo Creek – Rosalind Park


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Kangaroo Flat – Crusoe Reservoir – Marong - Kangaroo Flat Schweppes Centre – Bendigo Bushland Trail –Truscott Reserve and then return via other open space/Long Gully Lake Neangar – Mulga Bill Bicycle Trail – Lightning Hill - Bendigo Bushland Trail (west) - Lake Neangar; Lake Neangar – Mulga Bill Bicycle Trail – Lightning Hill - Bendigo Bushland Trail (east) – Burnside Road – Eaglehawk Creek - Lake Neangar Finn Street Recreation Reserve – White Hills Botanical Gardens – Burnside Road – Eaglehawk Creek - Lake Neangar – Eaglehawk Kerang Railway - Finn Street Recreation Reserve White Hills Botanical Gardens – Epsom – Howard Road – proposed link via Bendigo Aerodrome – O’Keefe Rail Trail - White Hills Botanical Gardens Weeroona Oval – O’Keefe Rail Trail – Bendigo Bushland Trail – Piepers Hill – Kennington Reservoir – Strathdale Park - O’Keefe Rail Trail - Weeroona Oval, and Rosalind Park – Lake Weeroona – Prince of Wales Showgrounds – Long Gully Reserve – via open spaces to Bendigo Linear Park and Trail – Rosalind Park. O’Keefe Rail Trail - Cemetery Road – Nth up Pinpandoor Rd – Mt. Sugarloaf – Wellsford Forest(via Plant Rd) – Rifle Range and O’Keefe Trail (via Bushland Trail) Local Trail Links There are shorter trails shown on the Map that essentially provide links between the major trails and key Cross City Trails that use existing open space or the local streets to provide safe access for walkers and cyclists. An example of a local trail would be the connection between North Bendigo Recreation Reserve via Hustlers Reef to Barkley Terrace West to Rosalind Park. This trail link provides a good local connection from the residential area to the city centre and also provides a good link between the Bendigo Creek Linear Park and Trail (accessed via Rosalind Park) and the proposed Cross City Trail via the Long Gully Creek through to North Bendigo. These local trail links may involve the use of existing streets (e.g. bike land on the road pavement for cyclists, upgraded footpath for walking) or use existing tracks within the open spaces or vacant land.


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Parks Observation 1 There are a large number of small, local parks with a lack of larger parks able to accommodate multiple uses. Recommendations Upgrade a number of parks to a regional status within the Urban Bendigo area to complement the development of Lake Weeroona Adventure Playground. Lake Neanger, Cooinda Park/Rotary Park Complex and Strathdale Park are all appropriate sites for this type of development. There is also potential to develop facilities at Maiden Gully at either the existing recreation reserve or the proposed reserve and Strathfieldsaye as population continues to grow. Consider disposal of some smaller sites that are duplicated close by.

Further developments such as Lake Weeroona Playground are required to spread usage across a number of facilities.


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Observation 2 There are many urban crown land sites currently rated as surplus, which could be developed as urban parks surrounded by higher concentrations of residential development. Recommendations Assess these sites in conjunction with Department of Sustainability and Environment for value as a variety of open space that Council could manage as urban parks.

Crown land sites assessed by DSE- some may be suitable for development for other community uses. Detailed assessment is required.


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Observation 3 There is a concentration of small playground sites in the southern and eastern sections of Bendigo with a corresponding scarcity of sites to the west and north. Recommendations Consider disposal of following playground sites St. Johns Close- Kangaroo Flat Beverley Street- Kangaroo Flat Anderson Street- North Bendigo Consolidate Lake Neanger/Canterbury Gardens site- Eaglehawk Sibley Place- Strathdale The Strand- Strathdale Raymond Avenue- Spring Gully Alder Street Reserve Consider acquisition of park sites incorporating playgrounds at Northern area of Maiden Gully North Eaglehawk California Gully Specific Actions Consult with community on possible disposal of sites.

Playground in Anderson Street with another playground just visible across the street. (highlighted in yellow)


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Observation 4 Lack of promotion of playground sites and lack of rated inventory of playgrounds Recommendation Provide a level of promotion for playgrounds to inform residents of location and facilities at regional sites and location of other local sites. The simplest way to achieve this is through some basic brochures and information on Councils website.


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Proposed or undeveloped Observation 1 Proposed or undeveloped sites represent just 1.8 % of the overall mix of open space and even with the withdrawal of the massive open space covered by Regional or National Parks, this still represents just 3.5 % of the total open space. This is a clear indication that at this point, Council is running out of spaces to develop, with the majority of land being very small parcels managed by state government. Recommendations It is imperative that Council undertake further detailed assessment of a number of these sites (particularly in the urban area) and provide direction to DSE on future proposed uses for this land That Council continues to acquire land in the areas earmarked for future residential growth to ensure land is available for Outdoor Sport, Park, Linear and Linkage and Landscape and Amenity use.

Undeveloped Crown Land at Chum Street- possible value as a community open space


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Landscape and Amenity Observation 1 In terms of streetscapes and using landscape and amenity to develop and reinforce neighbourhood characteristics, Council has undertaken a comprehensive Residential Character Study. The study deals with works in the public domain (roadways, nature strips, street trees) and separates the municipality’s urban areas into precincts based on local character. Each precinct has a brochure describing its current and preferred future character and provides specific design guidelines to ensure new residential development contributes to this character. Recommendations That Council continues to use the Residential Character Guide to work toward consistent development of streetscapes in urban spaces.


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Observation 2 Open Space Design Guidelines do not exist for the City of Greater Bendigo, which has lead to an uncoordinated approach to the development of landscapes. Recommendation That Council develops a comprehensive set of open space design guidelines that address the following; Drainage systems Requirements for road, kerb and channel Requirements for access and car parking Standards for lighting, safety and security Requirements for fencing, bollards, furniture Landscaping (including water retention) Identification of materials that are not appropriate, Access requirements for special needs groups, and Appropriate planting.


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Observation 3 Many public open spaces that provide for landscape and amenity are not well signed or boundaries recognised and require some work to “highlight”. There has been some good use of common signage by both Council and Parks Victoria that serves as a basis for further work. (e.g. Spring Gully Reserve and One Tree Hill section of National Park) Recommendations Provide common signage for public reserves on an ongoing basis. This should include sports grounds, trails, significant passive facilities and nature reserves. Provide bollards or fencing where appropriate.

An example of good use of signage and fencing recently installed along Spring Gully Reserve


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Conservation and Heritage Observation 1 Where new residential development is planned to occur, there is the potential for many pockets of significant vegetation to be retained as part of local structure plans. These will effectively be surrounded by residential development and specific management guidelines will be required to ensure the protection of these areas. Some of the areas may be ultimately handed over to Council. Some may be retained in private ownership. Recommendation That as part of the local structure plans for Jackass Flat, Maiden Gully, Strathfieldsaye and ultimately Marong, Council make specific recommendations on the management of parcels of significant vegetation. That Council works with DSE and Parks Victoria on a shared management plan for protection of these areas and for areas where the urban fringe meets proposed buffers for the Regional Park.

The City surrounded by National Park and State Forest- urban consolidation will continue to put pressure on the urban-forest interface.


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Observation 2 There is great potential to interpret a wide array of sites relevant to Bendigo’s mining heritage. There has been work done by a number of agencies in this area and possible funding opportunities exist through the for example, the Federal Cultural Heritage Projects Program. A number of sites have very high heritage significance. Recommendations Consideration be given to extending the DSE publication- Historic Mining Sites on Public Land- Bendigo Goldfield which proposes a coordinated strategy of use and management for many crown land site with heritage significance. Further analysis is recommended on the potential to create an interpretive tour using these sites.

One of many poppetheads that dot the Bendigo landscape as a reminder of gold mining


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Observation 3 Possible mechanisms exist to provide further land of high conservation values through “land exchanges” or a “revolving fund”. The ECC Box-ironbark final report recommendations provide options for;

1. Implementing a process for the undertaking of land exchanges where Crown land that has been assessed as being surplus to Government requirements (i.e. has no recognised significant public land values) can be considered for exchange with current private land containing B-I conservation values

2. Implementing a process for a possible revolving fund where the

proceeds of sale of Crown land assess as surplus can be placed into the fund for subsequent purchase of current private land containing B-I conservation values.

Recommendations That an immediate assessment of crown land site assessed as surplus by DSE be undertaken from the perspective of other community values (eg. Council uses) to provide DSE with opportunity to dispose of some sites and raise funds toward completion of the ‘ring of forest’ around the urban area.

An example of urban growth meeting the National Park fringe.


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Observation 4 Little information exists on the relation ship between the ring of forest around Bendigo and the urban tracts of green space through Bendigo. Potentially, some of these areas act as important flora and fauna corridors and some analysis and greater understanding of this would be beneficial. Recommendation That Council, DSE and Parks Victoria undertake a joint project, investigating the importance of the “green pathways” through the urban area and their importance to the biodiversity and flora and fauna flow of the surround Regional Park, State Forest and Greater Bendigo National Park.


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Observation 5 There is a need to understand better how Council can manage Crown land and the resources required to do so effectively. Council needs to know what resources are required if further crown land is taken on and managed and where those resources can come from. How much Crown land can Council realistically manage? Recommendations That Council undertakes an analysis to understand the resource allocations required to manage Crown land parcels and aim to provide a shared approach to management with DSE and Parks Victoria as outlined in the next Chapter.


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Chapter 5 OPEN SPACE MANAGEMENT Key stakeholders that need to work together to achieve the goal of an improved understanding and integrated approach to planning, development and management of open space are the City of Greater Bendigo, Parks Victoria, the Department of Sustainability and Environment and the Department of Victorian Communities. The Bendigo Open Space Strategy has already enabled the organisations to build closer ties. A shared understanding relating to the roles, responsibilities and functions of each organization is being developed. The following areas were identified as requiring attention: Organisational Issues 1. City of Greater Bendigo 2. Partnerships between stakeholders Functional Issues 1. Open Space Planning 2. Open Space Development 3. Open Space Management The major recommendations from this chapter involve the need to develop management plans for specific major reserves and a set of Open Space Design Guidelines for use by developers and Council staff alike. Management plans should be developed for major reserves including Rosalind Park, Lake Weeroona, O’Keefe Rail Trail, Crusoe Reservoir, White Hills Botanic Gardens, Lake Neangar, Bendigo Bushland Trail and Bendigo Creek Linear Park. The other key recommendation relates to the development of a Council Open Space Planning Group and Regional Open Space Planning Group which can assist in providing better coordination.


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Greater Bendigo City Council The Greater Bendigo City Council has both a large area and number of open spaces to manage (not all of which are owned by Council), and there are significant areas of open space that the Council/ community have an interest in, which are owned and managed by other organisations. The key issues in relation to these open spaces are: The need for shared understanding and collaboration within Council Open space roles, responsibilities and functions are spread across the City of Greater Bendigo structure. The primary units with responsibilities for open space are Recreation and Youth Services, the Environment Officer, Bendigo Parks, Planning and Development, Engineering and Property. A closer alignment of key staff, either structurally or spatially, would strengthen organisation-al approaches and commitment to open space issues and outcomes. The present study has identified many and diverse actions that require attention. The level of resources currently allocated by Greater Bendigo City Council seems inadequate in relation to the scope and nature of the task. The allocation of more organisational resources for open space planning, development and management is thus highly desirable. An additional officer to support strategic planning and policy development would increase organisational capabilities and capacity. Whilst open space issues are discussed at different forums, there is no specific forum within Council dedicated to the overall examination of open space issues. The current situation is that coordination and communication generally occurs on a project or needs basis. Given the spread of responsibilities and functions, it is considered that present management processes would be enhanced by improvement in coordination and communication on open space issues across the organisational structure. An Open Space Planning Group is recommended to meet this need. The proposed objectives and membership of this group are set out on the following page.


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CITY OF GREATER BENDIGO: OPEN SPACE PLANNING GROUP Objectives: Develop a shared understanding of organisational priorities, policies and practices Provide a forum for discussion on critical planning and development issues Enhance early detection of new and emerging issues Improve coordination and communication on open space issues Build internal knowledge and experience relating to open space Provide integrated advice to Council and Corporate Management Membership: Director Community Services (chair) Recreation and Youth Services Environment Officer Strategic Planning Planning and Development Engineering Services Bendigo Parks Property


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Partnerships between Stakeholders The Bendigo Open Space Strategy has provided an opportunity for a better understanding of, and collaboration between, the organisations responsible for open space within the City. This was particularly evident in the planning and outcomes of the Building Partnerships Workshop held in November 2003. The organisational representatives responsible for planning and synthesis of the workshop findings all believed that there was a need for a process to be developed for continuing collaborative action. An Open Space Partnership Group is thus recommended to implement this identified need. The proposed objectives and membership of this group is also set out below: REGIONAL OPEN SPACE PARTNERSHIP GROUP Objectives: To focus on open space planning, development, promotion and enjoyment To each be responsive to the views of the other members of the Partnership Group To promote approaches based on facilitation, advocacy and communication To collaborate in setting priorities and securing proactive outcomes To secure cross-organisational commitment to open space values To achieve a shared understanding of relevant organisational programs To share information aimed at facilitating planning and research To promote, evaluate and prioritise potential projects and funding opportunities To provide considered and collective advice to their organisations To be responsive to the views of open space users and the community Membership: Greater Bendigo City Council Manager Recreation & Youth Services Environment Officer Parks Victoria Regional Manager Box Ironbark &

Indigenous Partnerships Ranger in Charge, Northern Goldfields Sustainability & Environment Nominees of Regional Manager (2) Sport and Recreation Victoria Regional Manager Other organisations should be invited to participate as required, eg: Coliban Water, North Central Catchment Management Authority and the Centre for Land Protection Research


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Open Space Planning Acquisition and Disposal of Land by the City of Greater Bendigo Council primarily acquires open space via the subdivision process or by land purchase and must comply with processes established by Legislation and Acts in undertaking these functions. Occasionally, land that is no longer required for open space purposes is disposed of by Council. Strategic planning should underpin decisions to acquire land for open space purposes, or dispose of land that is currently open space and which is no longer required. Internal and external consultation processes should inform decisions. Specialist information, for example land capability assessments, are an important consideration in any evaluation. Detailed guidelines for the acquisition and disposal process are provided in Volume 1: Research Findings while a set of draft guidelines are outlined below: DRAFT GUIDELINES FOR ACQUISITION AND DISPOSAL OF OPEN SPACE Council should apply the following principles: In planning for open space, the Council should generally seek opportunities to: improve the local open space network and where possible contribute to the overall quality of the open space network for the City or region; create new public open space from vacant land or under-utilized land; maximize the potential of open space provision to provide for a range of benefits and values to the community; and require open space provision through the land development process for land where such land is considered to have potential to meet identified community needs for open space including sport, recreation, conservation, landscape, cultural or heritage values. Acquisition and disposal decisions should be informed by: Assessment of proposals in the light of the Vision, Principles and Objectives of this Strategy Review of relevant policy documents, reports and information Site visit Stakeholder consultation Any specialist information, eg: flora–fauna surveys and landscape assessment, Ecological Sustainable Development eg: storm water retention, grey water use, drought tolerant plants etc and A preliminary cost – benefit assessment.


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Subdivision Applications 1. Referral of Applications Not all applications to subdivide land require input on open space issues. In these circumstances, it does not seem to be appropriate to refer all subdivision applications to officers with key open space responsibilities for advice. An alternative would be a development coordination meeting to consider applications that may involve open space issues. Such a meeting could be held (say) once a month. Recreation Services, the Environment Officer and Bendigo Parks could be provided with the opportunity to review new applications by the Planning and Development Unit. Important and/or obvious applications identified by the Planning and Development Unit could be subject to a direct referral. This process would ensure that open space issues are fully considered by Council officers with open space responsibilities. 2. Selection of Land for Acquisition The selection of land for open space should be based on the findings and guidelines contained in the present Strategy. The strategy establishes a framework, comprising both classification and a hierarchy of open space and provides a thorough assessment of policies, influences, provision and organisational/community perspectives underpinning future open space needs. The Draft Guidelines for Acquisition and Disposal of Open Space establishes principles for evaluating and selecting land to meet the needs identified in the Strategy. The principles are also relevant to preparing Local Structure Plans for new areas. Ideally, the selection process should be managed by a single unit of Council to ensure consistent application of policies and approach. The process should ensure that Council units that are responsible for land development and management are consulted. 3. Prioritising New Open Space Initiatives The following steps should be used to review and assess new open space and/or development proposals to ensure that they are placed equitably in the wider planning and development program. 1. Assess the proposal in terms of:

• the open space vision, principles and objectives detailed in Chapter 2

• who in the community will be served by adoption of the proposal

• current provision of the proposed initiative and the extent to which this meets needs/demands

• the nature and scale of target markets/community groups to be served


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2. Review the past experience of Council (and if possible, of other Councils and organisations) with similar proposals in terms of markets, costs, provision, viability and outcomes.

3. Assess available sites and/or facilities that may be used for the proposal, including location, size, capacity, services, access, land uses, land capability

4. Assess opportunities for development partnerships with other open space uses

5. Determine whether the proposal should be incorporated into the action priorities of the current Open Space Strategy and, if so, what priority it should be given.

Major open space proposals should be referred to the proposed Council Open Space Planning Group for consideration, and as deemed appropriate, to the proposed inter-agency Open Space Partnership Group for consideration.


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Funding for Open Space Development Contribution Plans are a planning mechanism to gain contributions from land developers to meet the future needs of specific areas. The requirements for a DCP are defined in Section 46 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987. A DCP is required to establish a nexus between the contribution and proposed works, by specifying the area to which it applies, setting out details of works and specifying the estimated cost. This requires detailed planning and assessment prior to the development of the land. Development contributions collected by a Council must be applied only to the purpose for which they were collected. All contributions must be accounted for. A Council commitment to deliver identified works, services and/or facilities in a designated timeframe would be required. Council could prepare DCPs for open space (and other works, facilities and services) in new development areas identified in the Bendigo Residential Development Strategy 2004 (ie: Jackass Flat, Huntly, Maiden Gully and Marong). This could be determined following the completion of Local Structure Plans which identified land required for open space.


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Urban Forest Interface Guidelines The City of Greater Bendigo has developed guidelines for the urban - forest interface. The guidelines are contained in Appendix A of the Bendigo Residential Development Strategy 2004. The guidelines will become an important planning tool for Council and key stakeholders when giving consideration to proposals for land use and development in particular areas of the City. The guidelines are designed to ensure that residential development proposals respond appropriately to the open space/natural resource values of public land. A significant opportunity exists for integrated open space management where public land and Council land adjoins. Parks Victoria has an established system for services assessment (Levels of Service), for management planning and asset management. Given the extensive interface of urban and public land, there would seem to be benefit in the City of Greater Bendigo examining the Parks Victoria systems (and vice versa) to determine whether there are potential shared benefits in interface areas that they manage.


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Open Space Development Council Design Guidelines The development of Council open space currently occurs as a result of: Design and development of open space and facilities by Council. This may include land to be used for sport, parks or linear links. Development of open space and facilities by the development industry. This usually involves parks, and sometimes linear links. It may involve connections to adjacent public land. Development of open space and facilities by Committees of Management / user groups. This often relates to improvement or enhancement of existing facilities and infrastructure. The current situation allows for a diversity of standards and materials, resulting in specific responses for different areas and sites. Individual developers may provide materials and equipment that benefit the sale of residential estates, but which may impose an unreasonable expectation of Council for asset management in the future. The development of Open Space Design Guidelines that specify standards and materials for development of land that is or will be owned or managed by Council is highly desirable. The application of such guidelines has the potential to deliver financial and resource benefits for future Council asset management. The content of such guidelines should encompass: Drainage systems Requirements for road, kerb and channel Requirements for access and car parking Standards for lighting, safety and security Requirements for fencing, bollards, furniture Landscaping (including water retention) Identification of materials that are not appropriate, and Access requirements for special needs groups. It is recommended that such guidelines are developed by the City of Greater Bendigo.


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Open Space Management Responsibilities of Stakeholders The following management issues should be addressed for all categories and hierarchies of open space: Ensuring that management and maintenance requirements are adequately specified and that the responsibilities of each of Council, other agencies, Committees of Management, users and others are clearly defined Ensuring that appropriately trained and skilled management and maintenance staff are available to either (a) carry out the specified works, or (b) inspect and assess works undertaken by others Preparing management plans for all major reserves or for groups of like reserves to guide use and operational procedures Ensuring appropriate and safe access by all members of the community through physical works (eg: ramps, sealed pathways, appropriate pathway and door widths, signage, lighting) Promotion of access and use rights and targeted pricing regimes, that reflect ability to pay, supervision of use (to ensure safe access, unhindered use or, as deemed appropriate, use exclusion) and other policies as deemed appropriate Ensuring use safety through defined frequencies of site assessment and maintenance visits, and Ensuring adequate risk management procedures are in place. Parks Victoria and DSE have established management regimes and the City of Greater Bendigo is currently developing its asset management system for open space (MAV STEP program). As with the provision of amenities and services, it is probable that there will be further management issues which are relevant to specific types of assets and specific sites. It is best if these are defined through discussions with management, user and interest groups for each asset or category. In general, the higher the hierarchical order of a site and the greater the focus on use by children, people with disabilities and the aged, the greater is the need for a range of management inputs.


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Chapter 6 RECOMMENDATIONS – IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE This Chapter presents a series of recommendations designed to guide the future acquisition, development, management and use of open space in the City of Greater Bendigo. The recommendations have been drawn from the research findings presented in Volume 1 of this report and incorporate the findings and conclusions presented in Parts 2-5 of the present volume. The recommendations are divided into priority sections to provide some framework to how works should be completed. This should be seen as a guide only. A broad overarching set of recommendations and actions that were developed as a working document are also included as appendices to this strategy. See Appendix 1 and 2. It should be noted that open space needs and priorities will continue to change and that the plan is intended to provide a framework, policies and management tools within which to identify and respond to changing circumstances. As a guide, the recommendations of the plan should be reviewed internally by Council on an annual basis with regard to the strategic and operational components. A substantive ‘review’ of the overall plan and the outcomes achieved through action on it should be undertaken within 8-10 years.


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Stage 1 Recommendations Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 1.1 Consideration be given to increasing resources available for open space planning and development within Council

Analyse current commitment to these areas through STEP asset management plans and Best Value Reviews

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment Subdivisions

1.2. Establish an open space planning group within Council to improve communication and coordination.

Establish group and aims and particular projects to undertake with priorities being Open Space Design Guidelines specifying standards and materials for development of open space, consideration of capital projects, STEP asset management plans.

Director Community Services Recreation and Youth Strategic Planning Planning and Development Engineering Services Parks and Nat. Env. Property

1.3 Foster strong partnership arrangements with PV and DSE for the management of Open Spaces within the Greater Bendigo area

Establish an Open Space Partnership Group PV and DSE to promote/facilitate shared action

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment Strategic Planning

Parks Victoria DSE SRV

1.4 Investigate opportunities for a more continuous link of bush land habitat encircling Bendigo

Further develop recommended ECC land exchange and revolving fund concepts for acquisition of land

Habitat connection in Myers Flat between the Loddon Valley Highway southwest to Maiden Gully and connection between Whipstick (GBNP) southeast to Huntly (Bendigo Regional Park)

DSE Parks and Natural Environment Parks Victoria


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Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 1.5 Further improve the inventory of open space areas

Continue to assess sites earmarked as undeveloped for potential use or disposal

This is a continuation of the process that has occurred already- access to this information should be made more widely available once accuracy is ascertained.

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment Manager- GIS

1.6 Acquire land in the Huntly-Epsom corridor for a regional sporting facility- 20-30 Ha

Acquire land and complete master plan for site.

Development will be staged over several years

Property- acquisition Recreation- Master Plan

Parks and Natural Environment

1.7 Acquire land in the Strathfieldsaye area with access to Eppalock irrigation in line with future residential growth

Acquire land and complete master plan for site

Land acquired at Mannes Lane Development to be staged over several years



1.8 Acquire land in Maiden Gully to meet short term recreation needs

Acquire land adjacent to existing reserve and complete Master Plan for site.

Development will be staged over several years.



1.9 Develop unused site at Miller Street for mix of junior sport and passive recreation

Undertake consultation and develop master plan for site in partnership with local residents and potential users.

Development to be staged over several years

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment

Engineering

1.10 Continue sowing drought tolerant grasses at sports reserves

Apply for funding for works under Country Football Assistance Grants

Most work to be completed within one year with ongoing maintenance


Recreation

1.11 Continue developing Crusoe Heights in conjunction with interested clubs

Undertake further discussion with interested clubs and provide master plan for site

Recreation Parks


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Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 1.12 Consider provision of further synthetic sports facilities where suitable.

Provide opportunity for development of second synthetic hockey pitch. Continue discussion with Soccer League and Federation about a regional soccer complex incorporating synthetic surface

Potentially, Several years planning, negotiating funding, confirming location etc.


1.13 Develop Strathdale Park as per master plan

Finalise Master Plan and program works

Work will be staged through the Master Plan

Recreation Engineering

1.14 Acquire land at culmination of O’Keefe Rail Trail

Complete valuation and seek to acquire


1.15 Audit signage and condition of Bendigo Creek Linear Park

Undertake audit and provide works program


1.16 Audit all sporting reserve buildings and surrounds and make specific recommendations on improvements required.

Audit grounds, involve clubs and Council staff in final input.

Recreation Parks

Property

1.17 Resurface walking path around Lake Neanger

Complete in one year Capital projects Parks Recreation

1.18 Consider suggestions for improvement to the Bendigo Bushland Trail as part of the Cycling/Walking Strategy

Provide more detailed analysis of suggested improvements to Bushland Trail as per page 38

Recreation Parks Engineering


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Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 1.19 Consider City Loop Trail concepts as presented in report as part of the Bendigo Cycling/Walking Strategy

Provide more detail to suggested loops and linkages as per page 49-52

Provide a works program as part of the cycling strategy

Recreation Parks and natural Environment Engineering VicRoads

1.20 Provide written agreement outlining management responsibilities for Council and CMA for waterways throughout urban Bendigo

Negotiate agreements where required to ensure at least a shared responsibility for management of waterways.

Underway for Bendigo Creek. Parks and Natural Environment

CMA DSE

1.21 Prepare Management Plans for major open spaces

Prepare plans for Lake Weeroona, Rosalind Park, Skate Parks and Bendigo Creek Linear Park.

Further plans should follow with these being used as a template

Parks and Natural Environment Recreation Property


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Stage 2 Recommendations Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 2.1 Develop Master Plan for Kangaroo Flat-Lions Park-Gateway Park complexes.

Work toward strong connections between these sites as part of an overall Master Plan


2.2 Develop asset management plan for Outdoor Sports Reserves based on audit.

Develop a generic asset management plan that caters for outdoor sports reserves based on the STEP system


Engineering

2.3 Continue implementation of Rosalind Park Master Plan.

Continue working toward acquisition and re-development of the lawn tennis area as public open green space.

Ultimately this work could take some time and needs agreement from the Bendigo Tennis Association

Parks and Natural Environment Recreation Property

Engineering Capital Projects

2.4 Begin development of the Bendigo to Eaglehawk Open Space Link as per 1997 Concept Plan

Begin works as per plan This work will need to be programmed over several years.

2.5 Begin a process for the development of a new Green Plan or similar

Develop brief with consultation on the parameters for a new Green Plan or similar strategic document


Strategic Planning All units

2.6 Develop Truscott Reserve with further junior soccer pitch

Develop based on triggers of usage and continued growth in scoccer

Develop in one year Capital Works Recreation Parks and Natural Environment


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Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 2.7 Develop the new Recreation Reserves at Epsom and Strathfieldsaye.

Begin works based on Master Plans for Epsom and Strathfieldsaye

Capital Projects Recreation Parks and Natural Environment

2.8 Assess those sites identified by DSE as surplus for crown purposes as potential inner city parks or for some future use by Council.

Refine list to those sites labelled as surplus to DSE requirements. Assess possibly through City in a Forest project Make recommendation on those to be retained/managed for some future use

Particular attention to open space in the areas designated for Community Focused or Core Developments as part of the Residential Development Strategy.

Parks and Natural Environment Strategic Planning Recreation

DSE

2.9 Negotiate re-location of Bendigo Pony Club from current site

Secure new parcel of land, dispose of current site for Bus. 3 activities (as zoned) whilst retaining section to be part of open space link

Some discussion with crown about contribution toward new acquisition.

Recreation DSE

Property

2.10 Develop Albert Roy Reserve more fully with further baseball and possibly cricket facilities

Provision of a master plan required as a first step followed by a staged implementation program for capital works.


Engineering

2.11 Acquire land in Maiden Gully area at least two times the size required to meet current needs.

Acquire site in line with Residential Development Strategy. Complete Master Plan for site in consultation with community.

Property – acquisition Recreation – Master Plan



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Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 2.12 Upgrade Bendigo Bushland Trail

Funds for signage and trail structure as per audit completed as Priority 1 Recommendation.

This funding and auditing process should be ongoing as part of asset management plan

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment Engineering Capital Projects

2.13 Provide accurate brochures indicating the Bendigo Bushland Trail route.

Develop brochure in partnership with Parks Victoria


Parks Victoria Engineering Tourism

2.14 Allocate regular funding toward upgrade of Trail s

Complete works as per audits for all trails including signage, surface and promotion

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment Engineering

2.15 Responsibility for trail management is allocated to Recreation with support from others.

Support from Engineering and Parks and Natural Environment in the auditing of trails and priortising of works

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment Engineering Parks Victoria

2.16 Provide interpretive signage at Axedale at end of O’Keefe Trail

Recreation Tourism Parks and Natural Environment

2.17Investigate purchase of land in Binks Road to connect O’Keefe Rail Trail to Bushland Reserve

Investigate purchase of property and allocate funds for purchase or option to purchase

Recreation Property Parks and Natural Environment DSE

2.18 Map the proposed route and plan development for extension of Bendigo Creek Linear Park

Undertake this for Lockwood Road to Crusoe Reservoir and Howard Street to Huntly and National Park.

Recreation Engineering Parks and Natural Environment


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Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 2.19 Investigate further the specific route for the Bendigo Creek Linear Park between Golden Square and Rosalind Park Precinct

Consider pathway linkage to Creek Street and investigate logistics of following creek line through to Rosalind Park


2.20 Upgrade Lake Neangar/Canterbury Park playgrounds to provide a playground of regional status


2.21 Continue upgrade of Cooinda Park/Rotary Park complex to a regional level.


2.22 Development of playgrounds at Maiden Gully and Strathfieldsaye on new sites should be considered.

Maiden Gully requires some playground facilities on the northern side of the highway. This should be investigated.


2.23 Provide a level of promotion for playgrounds to inform residents of location and facilities regional and other local sites.

Develop brochure as medium for information and develop for web use.


2.24 Begin development of Crusoe Reservoir as per Master Plan

Capital Projects Parks and Natural Environment Recreation


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Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 2.25 Prepare Management Plans for various natural reserves

This would include; Jackass Flat Flora and Fauna Reserve Large natural open space areas identified in the Local Structure Plans for Strathfieldsaye, Northern Corridor, Jackass Flat Maiden Gully Bushland Reserve Sparrowhawk Gully Bushland Reserve McIvor Ranges Scenic Reserve Open Space Areas identified in Marong Structure Plan Quarry Hill-Solomon Gully Reserve

Parks Victoria Parks and Natural Environment DSE

Recreation Tourims


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Priority 3 Recommendations Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 3.1 Develop Maiden Gully site adjacent to existing site

Begin development as per Master Plan


3.2 Begin development of vacant land next to White Hills Botanical Gardens as per Master Plan

Continue work as per Master Plan – further detailed design is required

Capital Projects Parks and Natural Environment

3.3 Provide Developer Contribution Plans for Huntly and Jackass Flat

Sub-divisions Parks and Natural Environment Strategic Planning Engineering Recreation

3.4 Upgrade sporting facilities as per facilities audit

Provide for works as per the audit recommendations

Generally the Sports Pavilion Audit will provide a comprehensive inventory on the current status and condition of facilities with a staged action plan for works

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment Property

3.5 Development of Bendigo Creek Linear Park

From Lockwood Road to Crusoe Reservoir and Howard street to Huntly/National Park

Capital Projects Parks and Natural Environment Engineering

3.6 Development of Bendigo Creek Linear Park link between Golden Square and Rosalind Park

Develop route as detailed in the coming Cycling Strategy



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Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 3.7 Undertake a plan of works required and management requirements for the O’Keefe trail extension to Heathcote

Provide trail route to Heathcote and investigate feasibility of acquisition or land use agreements and costs to develop and maintain


Recreation

3.8 Undertake study investigating the importance and function of the relationship of urban green spaces with the surrounding forest.

Design brief in consultation with stakeholders


DSE Parks Victoria Strategic Planning

3.9 Undertake further study on open space sites with heritage values aimed at potential tourism/recreation benefits

Study based on work completed by DSE in Historic Mining Sites on Public Land- Bendigo Goldfield


Tourism Recreation


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Stage 4 Recommendations Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners 4.1 Consider relocation of some sports clubs out of the urban area with some minor sports reserves given over to other passive uses

Recreation

4.2 Begin works on extension of the O’Keefe Trail based on plan of works

Provide works as per the developed plan


4.3 Consider disposal of playground sites

Consideration to closure of St Johns Close, Beverly Street, Anderson Street, Sibley Place, The Strand, Raymond Avenue, Alder Street.

Consultation with local communities will be important

Recreation Parks and Natural Enviroment


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Other recommendations Recommendation Specific Actions Further comments Responsibility Partners Identify major site for sport and recreation facilities through the development of the Marong Structure Plan

Ensure input into the Marong Local Structure Plan


Review McIvor Creek Linear Park Study

Initial analysis suggests this project requires substantial funds to complete – a cost-benefit analysis needs to be completed


Recreation

Identify and plan development for key visitor service nodes within the Greater National Park

Parks Victoria Bendigo Tourism Recreation Parks and Natural Environment DSE

Consider development of Tooborac-Heathcote Aqueduct Trail

Review work completed by DSE and undertake a feasibility study.


Recreation

Develop parameters for biological buffers

Identify parameters for biological buffers


DSE Recreation

Protect and enhance indigenous flora and fauna


Support the development of an off leash dog park at Hustlers Reef

Undertake discussions to provide a local committee of management to the Crown that could be supported by Council through grants and other

Recreation Parks and Natural Environment DSE


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resources Use indigenous species where sustainability of the natural environment is a priority.


Appendix One – Directions and recommendations by geographic area


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Priority Recommendations

Inner City

(Bendigo)

South City

(Golden Square, Flora Hill, Quarry Hill, Spring Gully, Golden Gully, Kangaroo Flat, Big Hill)

East City

(East Bendigo, Kennington, Strathdale, Strathfieldsaye, Junor-toun)

North City

(North Bendigo, California Gully, Jackass Flat, White Hills, Huntly, Ascot, Epsom)

North West City

(Long Gully, Bendigo West, Iron Bark, Eaglehawk – Sailors Gully, Maiden Gully)

Rural East

(Heathcote – Rural East)

Rural South West

(Marong – Rural South West)

Rural North

(Elmore – Rural North)

Preparation of Structure Plans to guide future urban development

Infill development around the core CBD

Infill development to 2030 urban growth boundary

Strathfieldsaye


Northern Corridor and Huntly (draft done)

Jackass Flat


Maiden Gully


Not required Marong

Not required

Preparation of Open Space Developer

Continue with current open

Continue with current open

Strathfieldsaye Northern Corridor and Huntly

Maiden Gully Continue with current open

Marong Continue with current open


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Contribution Plans space provisions space provisions Jackass Flat space provisions

space provisions

Preparation of Management Plans

Bendigo Creek Linear Park

Quarry Hill – Soloman Gully Reserve

Crusoe Reserve (done)

Greater Bendigo National Park

Large natural open space areas ident-ified in the Strath-fieldsaye Structure Plan

Jackass Flat Flora and Fauna Reserve

Large natural open space areas identified in the Northern Corridor and Huntly and Jackass Flat Structure Plans

Maiden Gully Bushland Reserve

Review of Sparrow-hawk Gully Bush-land Reserve

McIvor Ranges Scenic Reserve

Large natural open space areas identified in the Marong Structure Plan

Implementation of National Park management plans


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Inner City

(Bendigo)

South City


East City


North City


North West City


Rural East


Rural South West


Rural North


Preparation of Master Plans

Implementation of Rosalind Park Master Plan

Lake Weeroona

Review of Spring Gully Recreation Reserve

Kangaroo Flat Botanical Gardens – Lions Park – Gateway Park

Crusoe Reservoir (underway)

Strathdale Park – Kennington Reservoir

Identified major opportunities for future sporting and recreation facility sites in the Strath-fieldsaye Structure Plan

Extension of park-land development north along creek from Harcourt Centre

Review of White Hills Botanical Gardens and open space precinct

Bendigo Showground

Identified major opportunities for future sporting and recreation facility sites in the Huntly and Jackass Flat Structure Plans

Schweppes Centre Long Gully Reserve

Review of Canterbury Park Gardens - Lake Neangar – Lake Tom Thumb

Identified major opportunities for future sporting and recreation facility sites in the Structure Plan

Review of McIvor Creek Linear Park

Lake Eppalock facilities sites

Identified major opport-unities for future sporting and recreation facility sites in the Marong Structure Plan

Key visitor service nodes within the Greater Bendigo National Park


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Inner City

(Bendigo)

South City


East City


North City


North West City


Rural East


Rural South West


Rural North


Continued develop-ment and upgrading of recreation trails

Improved connections to the Bendigo Creek including development on a new trail link from Rosalind Park to the junction of High Street and new Cross-City link via Spring Creek Trail and some improved local links

Use of existing tracks/footpaths on open space reserves and/or local streets from High Street to Lockwood Road; development of a trail along Bendigo Creek reserves & /or local streets from Lockwood Road to Crusoe Reservoir. Spring Creek Trail to connect with the Bendigo Creek Linear Park and Trail (developed in part). Cross City Link from Diamond Hill to Bendigo Creek Linear Park; trail to Long Gully Reserve

Cross City link from the Bendigo Bushland Trail via Strathdale Park on St Aidans Road (or alternative streets) to connect to the Spring Creek Trail Extension of trail development north along creek from Harcourt Centre

Extension of the Bendigo Creek Linear Park to Huntly as part of the Structure Plan

Cross City link pro-posal using open space in the Eagle-hawk Kerang Rail-way route (not developed) to link Lake Neangar to the Bendigo Creek Linear Park and Trail Also connection from Bendigo Creek Linear Park (Holds-worth Road) via the Long Gully Ck through North Bendigo to Ironbark and to Schweppes Centre (not developed) and also north to Long Gully (not developed)

Extensions of the O’Keefe Trail Develop Tooborac – Heathcote aqueduct trail proposal

Provide trail links to the Bendigo Bush-land Trail

Trails within the Greater Bendigo National Park

Development and upgrading of sub-municipal play facilities at key parks to attract greater use.

Rosalind Park, Lake Weeroona

Spring Gully Recreation Reserve, Kangaroo Flat Botanical Gardens – Lions Park, Gateway Park – Cooinda Park

Strathfieldsaye (future) Strathdale Park – Kennington Reservoir

White Hills Botanical Gardens and Oval precinct Northern Corridor & Huntly (future) Jackass Flat (future)

Schweppes Centre Long Gully Res., Truscott Res., Canterbury Park Gardens - Lake Neangar / Tom Thumb.

Heathcote Marong (future)

Not required


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Inner City

(Bendigo)

South City


East City


North City


North West City


Rural East


Rural South West


Rural North


Development of new sportsgrounds and facilities

Rationalise existing sports grounds through relegation & restructuring of single field grounds to create higher quality multiple use facilities or alter-native open space use

Rationalise existing sports grounds through relegation & restructuring of single field grounds to create higher quality multiple use facilities or alter-native open space use

Upgrading of existing sportsgrounds/ facilities

Priority should be planning for future sportsgrounds and facilities as part of the northern growth corridor

Priority should be continued upgrad-ing of Schweppes Park as a multiple use municipal sports complex

Limited need given pop-ulation base

Land identified in Marong Structure Plan

Limited need given population base

Key land acquisitions for additional open space

Near CBD with prospect for increased small open space and amenity spaces Links for improving recreational trails and connections

Land to support development of hierarchy of recreation trails or adding size to some smaller local parks to improve their recreational value

Land identified in Strathfieldsaye Structure Plan. Land to support development of hierarchy of recreation trails

Land identified in the Northern Corridor and Huntly and Jackass Flat Structure Plans Land to support development of hierarchy of recreation trails

Land to support development of hierarchy of recreation trails Land identified in Maiden Gully Structure Plan

Potential long term exten-sions of the O’Keefe Trail

Land identified in Marong Structure Plan

Not required

Rationalisation and/or disposal of open space

Potential rationalis-ation of sporting and other uses in the long term to secure integrity of Rosalind Park as per Vision

Some of the many smaller urban undeveloped open spaces with funds being used to upgrade other sites.

Some of the many smaller urban undeveloped open spaces with funds being used to upgrade other sites.

Poorly located or under-utilised open space that will have limited value given preference for larger and sub-municipal open space in the overall Structure Plans

Poorly located or under-used sites that have limited value given prefer-ence for sub-municipal or larger open space in the overall Structure Plan

None identified – retain existing open space areas

As per North-west of City

None identified – retain existing open space areas


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Appendix Two- Direction and Recommendations- Trails


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Focus Recommended Actions Major Trails Cross City Trails

Key Trail Loops

Local Trail Links

Trail Management

Support or establish Trail Working Group with representatives from Council, land managers and other key stakeholders.

••• •• • • Undertake an audit of the proposed trail to review and identify best options for trail

route, potential site issues (e.g. access, safety, potential impacts and conflicts), available facilities and priorities for trail development

••• ••• ••• ••

Review sites where potential impacts may occur with trail use and involve stakeholders in identifying ways to avoiding or mitigating these impacts.

••• ••• •• •• Review route across private property and negotiate access agreements where

required ••• ••• •• ••

Identify potential funding and resource assistance for the development and management of the trail and prepare submissions/contact /fundraise

••• ••• •• • Clarify roles and responsibilities for track management along segments of the trail ••• ••• •• • Trail Development

Prepare a Trail Development Plan based on the priorities identified in the audit and available resources to achieve a safe and sustainable trail.

••• •• •• • Focus on the opportunities to use existing infrastructure and utilities along the trail

e.g. toilets, picnic facilities, car parking. ••• ••• ••• ••

Install trail signage with the progressive development of the trail e.g. trailhead signs, directional signs, public facilities

••• •• •• • Identify key sites for interpretation of features along the trail e.g. short walk

segments with high users ••• •• • •

Trail Marketing & Promotion

Identify the attributes, values and brand essence of the trail to assist with naming and marketing of the trail experience

••• •• • • Undertake some market research to identify existing market, potential target

markets, needs and expectations ••• • • •

Prepare a basic information package about the trail that provides a map and essential information for users (this may promote segments of the trail initially) – both electronic and hard copy

••• •• • •


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Focus Recommended Actions Major Trails Cross City

Trails Key Trail Loops

Local Trail Links

Upgrade the quality and content of the information package as the trail development proceeds with preparation of a dedicated trail guide within 5 years

•• • • • Integrate the marketing of the trail with other marketing collateral e.g. websites,

local tourism brochures, visiting journalists etc ••• •• • •

Trail Maintenance

Identify trail maintenance responsibilities and requirements and prepare operational budgets for ongoing works in a Three Year Budget

••• •• •• • Seek volunteer support for trail maintenance through various programs e.g. Adopt-

a-Trail, Landcare, schools, service clubs etc •• •• •• ••

Promote minimal impact practices along the trail ••• ••• ••• ••• Undertake yearly audit of trail maintenance ••• ••• ••• ••• Undertake major audit of trail conditions and maintenance requirements for the

next 5 years ••• •• • •

••• very important and must be undertaken

•• important and should be undertaken

• helpful and should be undertaken if possible


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Appendix Three- Mapping


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Appendix Four- Open Space Priorities Map

Open Space Strategy - City of Greater Bendigo · City of Greater Bendigo: Open Space Strategy.,...

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