A concept plan for Riddells Creek’s Rangeview Park has identified a series of works to improve community connectivity.
The park was established as part of the Rangeview Estate development but residents say it has been underutilised due to lack of shade and incomplete areas.
The area currently includes a small playground, what is described as an unfinished barbecue/seating area, and three large retention basins designed to take the stormwater but minimal plantings.
Improvements to Rangeview Park were raised at Riddells Creek Cool Changes discussions about three years ago. Since then, Macedon Ranges Shire Council has offered support for a feasibility study and community engagement.
Riddells Creek Cool Changes environment group leader Maree Scale said people had been enthusiastic about the potential of the space and were eager to see plans progress.
Ms Scale has been a key mover of the project alongside fellow environment group member and strong supporter Vince Mulkerin.
“It is such an underutilised area that could be so much more,” she said.
“Our goal is to have an attractive and regenerated environment where the community can connect with each other and nature.”
A detailed survey has captured the thoughts of people in the community and priorities included creating shade, improved pathways, planted areas and playground safety.
Landscape designer Sue Meli developed the concept plan, which includes shaded seating areas and an all-abilities 400-metre perimeter circulation path for walking/jogging with trees and low indigenous vegetation.
Other features included a shade structure over the existing picnic area, drinking fountain, a learn-to-ride bicycle track for pre-school children, playground fencing and bollards around the park’s perimeter.
Open grass areas, nature play space, adventure play space, native butterfly garden and a sunken amphitheatre were also mapped out.
Residents have expressed interest in forming a ‘friends’ group for the park, and other groups such as Landcare and Lions have indicated possible future support for park projects.
Resident now look to the next steps of the progressing the plans.
