Neighbourhood parks across Ballarat to receive upgrades including engaging play spaces

City of Ballarat has advised that five neighbourhood parks across Ballarat will receive significant upgrades as part of the City’s ongoing Neighbourhood Parks Upgrade Program.

Local companies Amla Services Pty Ltd and S.H.A.E Enterprises Pty Ltd have been awarded the contracts to carry out the improvements at the following reserves:

• Shaw Avenue Reserve, Wendouree

• Webb Avenue Reserve, Ballarat East

• Inkerman Gully Reserve, Ballarat North

• Orchard Estate Reserve, Brown Hill

• Peel Street Reserve, Black Hill

The designs for these parks were shaped by community input gathered during a detailed community consultation process. Feedback from residents played a key role in informing the final plans.

The scope of works includes:

• Site preparation, earthworks, drainage improvements

• Removal of outdated infrastructure

• Construction of landscape features such as:

-Paths and pathway connections
-Park furniture and shelters
-Informal sporting elements
-playground elements including nature play
-New planted garden beds and tree plantings

Contractors will also collaborate with the nominated play equipment provider at each location to ensure cohesive and engaging play spaces.

Soft landscaping will also involve garden bed preparation, mulching and understorey vegetation to enhance the natural appeal of each site.

These upgrades are funded through the Open Space Contribution Levy applied to new developments.

City of Ballarat Mayor Tracey Hargreaves said the upgrades reflect the Council's commitment to creating vibrant, accessible spaces for all residents.

Mayor Hargreaves noted "Neighbourhood parks are the heart of our communities. They're where families gather, children play, and neighbours connect.

"These upgrades will ensure our parks continue to meet the needs of growing communities and provide safe, welcoming spaces for everyone to enjoy.

"It's fantastic that the ideas and feedback from residents are being brought to life in these designs. I'm looking forward to seeing the parks transformed and enjoyed this summer."

Works are scheduled to begin in the coming weeks and scheduled for completion by December 2025.

This latest round of upgrades follows successful improvements at other neighbourhood parks, including:

• Glenvale Road Reserve, Mt. Clear

• Hermitage Avenue Reserve, Canadian

• Cuthberts Road Reserve, Alfredton

• Vale Street Park, Alfredton

• Horsham Crescent Reserve, Alfredton

• Hearn Road Reserve, Brown Hill

• College Street Reserve, Wendouree

Image. College Street Reserve, Wendouree 2024 upgrades. Credit: City of Ballarat