Victorian Government backs 13 new pocket parks in Melbourne’s suburbs

The Victorian Government has announced an expansion of open green space across Melbourne’s suburbs with a $15 million investment in 13 new pocket parks and five off leash dog parks.

The funding boost comes under round two of the $154 million Suburban Parks Program, which will create 6,500 hectares of public open space including parkland and trails.

The Victorian Government will work with local councils to deliver 18 new parks in addition to the 15 new pocket parks and nine off-leash dog parks announced in May last year.

The ongoing program will also create jobs in industries including construction, design and landscaping as Victoria rebuilds from the economic impacts of coronavirus.

The new dog parks, allocated up to $275,000, will be created in Essendon West, Balwyn North, Elwood, Mitcham and Ringwood North.

Each new pocket park is funded up to $1.3 million and spread across new and established neighbourhoods in St Albans, Sunshine North, Footscray, Prahran, Oakleigh South, Frankston, Dandenong, Notting Hill, North Melbourne, Moonee Ponds, Montmorency, Eltham and Glenroy.

Local councils were invited to nominate sites for the new parks, which were assessed by an independent panel. 

The parks were selected for funding based on their accessibility by road, public transport or well-linked to bike and walking tracks.

When complete, the pocket parks will include community event areas, landscaping and greenery, improved pedestrian connections, seating, shade, play areas and drinking fountains.

The purpose-built dog parks will also include designated ball play areas, rockeries, education and agility equipment and seating.

Announcing the funding, Victorian Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio stated “the pandemic has brought into sharp focus the importance of open green space close to home and these new parks will deliver just that - building on our reputation as one of the world’s most liveable cities.” 

“These parks will create local jobs while they’re being built, boost surrounding local businesses and provide social, health and wellbeing benefits for families and their pets for years to come.”

Click here for more on the pocket and dog parks.