southcombe park - shire of moyne · 2015-12-23 · southcombe park master plan - december 2015 2...

Southcombe Park

Master Plan

December 2015

Introduction

1.1 Project introduction and purpose

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SOUTHCOMBE PARK MASTER PLAN - DECEMBER 2015 2

Moyne Shire Council (”Council”) commissioned the Southcombe Park Master Plan to consider the needs of current and possible future users, whilst providing a clear framework for its ongoing management. Key challenges include addressing asset renewal and development opportunities to ensure the park continues to meet appropriate standards and community expectations for such a high profile reserve.

The planning approach for the Master Plan has included background research, site analysis, stakeholder engagement and the development of design directions to:

Address the needs of the existing user groups;

Consider the capacity of existing facilities to service current and future uses;

Enhance the functionality of the reserve;

Encourage and support participation in sport and recreation;

Consider seasonal and event based use requirements;

Increase opportunities for informal recreation and social interaction;

Improve the relationship to surrrounding areas;

Increase the aesthetic appeal and environmental management of the reserve; and

Maximise resource efficiencies.

1.2 Locality


SUBJECT SITE

To Portland

To Warrnambool Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve is located within the township of Port Fairy, between the regional hubs of Warrnambool and Portland, within the Shipwreck Coast region.

The historic seaside village, described as a “unique example of a perfectly preserved 19th century shipping port”¹ is situated along the popular Great Ocean Road touring route, and has a resident population of 3,314 people (Port Fairy & district). This increases to a population in excess of 10,000 during peak periods and in excess of 40,000 during the Port Fairy Folk Festival.¹

Voted in 2009 by Australian Traveller as “Victoria's Number 1 Tourist Destination and Australia's Fourth Most Popular”¹ (in their 100 Best Towns In Australia edition), the township is also locally promoted as “the most prominant festival town in Victoria”.²

¹ http://www.visitportfairy-moyneshire.com.au/towns places/port-fairy² http://www.portfairy.com.au/

1.3 Project Scope


Southcombe Park Precinct

Master Plan extent

The Southcombe Park Precinct is considered a key component of the Port Fairy Township, located between the historical centre of the town and the southern coastal area. The precinct includes the Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve, George Dodds Reserve, Southcombe Caravan Park, Southcombe Lodge, Russell Clark reserve and Sandy Cove Reserve.

Whilst the Master Plan considers all of the individual precincts that make up the reserve, the primary focus is on the active sporting precinct of the Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve as this area is facing a number of immediate challenges and demand pressures, including identifying a preferred location for an indoor cricket facility, reinstatement of tennis courts, asset improvements and future use of existing facilities and playing fields.

Southcombe Caravan Park

George Dodds Reserve

Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve

Southcombe Lodge

1.4 Project Background


Proposed development of a indoor cricket facility within Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve has been a catalyst for the development of the Master Plan.

Although there has been Council and stakeholder support for the proposed indoor cricket facility there has been no agreement regarding its possible location within the park.

Four potential sites have been previously proposed and subsequently rejected for a variety of reasons, including: Location of an existing sewer line;

Impact on park users and functions; and

Negative community feedback.

The most recent of these locations, within the Southcombe Caravan Park, would have resulted in significant revenue losses for the Caravan Park.

Therefore a key challenge for the Master Plan is to identify a preferred location for any new building, whilst minimising potential negative impacts on other uses and users of the reserve.

Gravity sewer mainRising under pressure sewer mainWater pipesDrainage pipes

Previously proposed indoor cricket facility locations

2.1 Policy context

The Master Plan has been developed to align with the identified strategic directions outlined in the Council Plan 2013-2017, specifically:

This Master Plan has been developed to accord with the following vision established to guide Moyne Shire’s recreation provision “to ensure recreation facilities, programs and services reflect community needs and enable residents of all ages and interests access and opportunity to participate in a range of sport and leisure activities.” Informing this vision were the following key objectives:

Reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease, stroke, obesity and other preventable illnesses.

Increased life expectancy.

Reduced incidence of bowel cancer and certain other cancers.

Reduced incidence of stress, anxiety, depression and improved overall mental health.

Reduced incidence of chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and asthma.

2.2 Importance of sport & recreation

Council Plan 2013-2017 Recreation Strategy 2014-2024

Develop and implement improvements for our townships including town entrances, recreation facilities and open space amenities based on strategic directions.

Ensure that council services and programs are responsive to the changing needs and expectations of the community.

Plan, lead and facilitate the provision of high quality services that meet the needs of all sections of the community.

Support an active and healthy community that is engaged in a broad range of artistic, cultural and recreational activities.

Encourage and support voluntary and charitable activities and groups.

Accessible for all.

Increase activation of open spaces through design and programming.

Recognise the importance of social connection through sport and open space.

Sustainable provision and distribution of facilities and opportunities.

Vibrant and sustainable sports clubs and community groups.

Strategic Context 2


to a range of sport, recreation and leisure opportunities across the municipality. These add to the culture, lifestyle and character of the region as well as enhance the liveability of the Shire and are therefore recognised as an important part of a well-balanced lifestyle.

The benefits associated with participating in sport and physical activity include personal enjoyment, social interaction, physical and mental health, personal achievement, community involvement (‘social capital’), community resilience, community capacity building, and opportunities for expression of community pride. The health benefits of participation in regular physical activity have been well documented and include:

Council currently provides and/or facilitates access

Image source: http://arnoldandersonsportfund.com/images/slider/slider1.jpg

2.3 Surrounding Context


PPRZ

PUZ2

PCRZ

GRZ1

C1Z

PUZ3

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Russell Clark ReservePort Fairy Consolidated SchoolSkateparkSt Patricks Parish PrimarySandy Cove ReservePort Fairy Community Services CentreGriffiths IslandThe PassagePort Fairy historic town centre

There are a range of uses surrounding the reserve including educational, community, commercial, recreational and tourism.

The reserve is located in a wider area of mixed use, with surrounding zones including Public Use Zone (PUZ1/PUZ2); General Residential Zone (GRZ1); Commercial 1 Zone (C1Z); Public Conservation & Resource (PCRZ); and Public Park & Recreation Zone (PPRZ).

The reserve is currently home to a variety of active sports, community groups and uses, including Belfast Aquatics; the Port Fairy Cricket Club; Port Fairy Basketball Club; squash, tennis and netball clubs; and the annual Port Fairy Folk Festival, a key tourism attraction for the town.

The Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve is managed by a Local Government Act Section 86 Committee known as the ‘Southcombe Park Management Committee’ (SPMC) which includes representatives from user groups and the community. Belfast Aquatics is managed by a separate management committee, known as the Belfast Aquatics Committee of Management, and Southcombe Lodge and Caravan Park are separately managed by Moyne Shire.

The study area is approximately 29.3 hectares which includes the Southcombe Park Caravan Park (approximately 12.3 hectares); the George Dodds Reserve (approximately 11.2 hectares); and the Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve itself (approximately 5.8 hectares). The reserve is constrained to its current footprint by surrounding roads on all sides. The reserve is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ) in the Moyne Shire Planning Scheme. The site is considered an area of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity and a Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO) also exists over a small section of the south eastern corner of the site.

Single court indoor sports stadium, including meeting rooms, kitchen, and squash courts (3);

Cricket pavilion;

Folk Festival storage shed;

Belfast Aquatics with 25 metre indoor pool and gym; and

Southcombe Caravan Park & Southcombe Lodge.

Key existing buildings/facilities include (but are not limited to):

Site Analysis3.1 Site Context

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AVERY’S PADDOCK CRICKET OVAL

EXISTING PATH NETWORK

SHEEHAN (CRICKET) PAVILLION

DISUSED NETBALLCOURTS

CARAVAN PARKPARKING

CARAVAN PARKADMINISTRATION

INDOOR STADIUM

J. J. COLLEDGE CRICKET OVAL

AQUATIC CENTRE

FORMER GRASS TENNIS COURTS

DISUSED ASPHALTTENNIS COURTS

SOUTHCOMBELODGEFOLK FESTIVAL

STORAGE SHED

TOILET BLOCKS


3.2 Existing Facilities and Fixtures

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Belfast Aquatics:Indoor pool and gym including health and fitness classes, swim lessons, and informal casual use.

Southcombe Park Sporting Complex:Utilised for formal and informal use by sports including basketball, netball and roller derby. Also currently utilised by Port Fairy Massage and Moyne Health.

Cricket pavillion:Utilised by the Port Fairy Cricket Club.

Southcombe Caravan Park:Seasonal tourism use between December 1st and April 30th annually.

Southcombe Lodge:Offers year-round accomodation for a wide range of users including families, schools and community groups.

George Dodds Reserve; used for passive recreation and as a native flora/fauna habitat.

Ovals / tennis courts: these spaces are used for formal sport and passive recre-ation.

Caravan Park camping extends into this area to accomodate additional campers during the Folk Festival and peak demand periods.

Annual Folk Festival occupies this area in March and is a ticketed event.

3.3 Existing uses & user groups

Formal

Informal

Temporary Event Use

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ConnectivityEntry and access points to/from the reserve are not clearly defined. There are opportunities to improve connections to surrounding land uses and destination points.

Toilet BlockThe existing toilets require upgrading and refurbishment, including improvements to sewer capacity/treatment.

James StreetThe limited width of James Street can be a cause of significant congestion in peak periods, particularly for cars/caravans trying to access the caravan park. The street width is constrained by a row of existing senescent trees that have previously been identified for removal.

Campbell StreetResidents have raised concern about a lack of adequate road side drainage resulting in erosion and negative impacts on the road surface.

Tennis and Netball CourtsThe condition of the former tennis and netball courts prevents active use of these facilities. The existing facilities do not comply with an acceptable standard for formal or informal use.

George Dodds ReserveGround surface conditions could be improved in order to better support camping and ease of maintenance (e.g. undulating ground, rocks, poor grass coverage, etc.).

Path networkMany sections of the existing path network have become overgrown and therefore fail to meet minimum recommended width requirements.

FencingSections of the perimeter security fencing surrounding the reserve require upgrading/replacement in order to ensure a secure ticketed site for the Folk Festival.

Informal ParkingOn-street car parking surrounding the site does not optimise available space.

Formal ParkingThe existing carpark servicing Belfast Aquatics and Stadium has limited lighting and may require functionality improvements.

Summary of Key Issues4.1 Existing general issues

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Reserve-wide Issues:

LightingThe reserve lacks general amenity and security lighting, including at key entrances and throughout the path network.

Rubbish Bins:There is a lack of adequate rubbish bin provision throughout the park, particularly at key entrances/access points.

Pest MaintenanceThere is evidence of foxes, rabbits and weed species throughout the reserve which has contributed to playing field and turf damage impacting on formal sports and camping areas.

5.1 Demand for upgrade

5.2 Vision

Capacity of existing facilities and infrastructure to accomodate current and future uses;

Maximising informal recreational value of open space;

Access, movement and safety within the reserve;

Management and maintenance of the reserve; and

Funding initiatives for the reserve;

Vision: A vibrant and highly valued public open space that contributes to the character and amenity of the town and supports a range of sporting uses, informal recreation, tourism demands, environmental outcomes and use by major events (i.e. Port Fairy Folk Festival).

Throughout the consultation process a variety of aspirations were raised, by residents, user groups and the local community. Key issue themes to emerge were:

Design Directions 5


5.3 Design Objectives

Maximise informal and community use

Improve the pedestrian circulation network throughout the park.

Create connections between the reserve and its surrounds.

Install or upgrade features and facilities that support informal recreational use by the community.

Retain and maintain the existing open space areas.

Promote an inclusive sporting precinct

Ensure sporting infrastructure within the reserve can adequately accomodate current and desired future uses.

Maximise capacity and use of existing infrastructure and promote multi-use.

Consolidate a primary area of built form to create an active sporting hub within the reserve and maximise retained open space.

Address gaps in local sport infrastructure.

Improve the existing playing fields and courts to support current and identified future uses.

Improve amenity and functionality

Improve reserve interfaces and existing connections.

Preserve and enhance the coastal character and amenity of the reserve.

Support sustainable asset maintenance and vegetation management.

Removal / repurposing of disused infrastructure.

Ensure additional elements are of a cohesive durable style, requiring minimal maintenance.

Improve functionality and safety of existing formal and informal parking.


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Master Plan 6


NORTH


BELFASTAQUATIC

CRICKET PAVILLION

SOUTHCOMBE CARAVAN PARK

SOUTHCOMBEPARK

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RECOMMENDATIONS

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19NORTH

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INFORMALCAR PARK

Explore opportunities for community involvement in a revege-tation and replanting program throughout the park, particularly the south west corner (i.e. corner of Ocean Drive and James Street) and selectively within George Dodds Reserve.

Signage, Entry Feature, Public Art:Explore opportunities to work with local artists to design and install appropriate public art, signage and entry features at key locations.

Fencing:Upgrade perimeter fencing of the reserve, particularly along Atkinson, Campbell and James Streets, utilising waist high fencing to improve the amenity, appeal and attractiveness. Fencing design to consider options for easy installation of temporary security fencing associated with the annual Folk Festival as required. Internal Access Road:Asphalt seal the access road off Atkinson Street leading to the informal grass car parking area servicing the cricket ovals.

Facilities & Infrastructure:

Indoor CricketDevelop a stand-alone indoor cricket training facility at the rear of the existing Belfast Aquatics centre. Ensure the facility design maximises opportunities for multi-use, including as a possible training venue for other sports and to support use by the Folk Festival. The building is to have a functional relationship with the existing stadium to enable shared use of change room and toilet facilities. In the long term (10+ years), there may be opportunities to consolidate the overall built form footprint in this area to enable all functions to be housed under one roof and allow the possibility of one management structure.

Public Toilets:Upgrade and remodel the public toilets adjacent to the cricket pavilion to better service park users, including improving the sewer capacity/flow. The remodelled toilets to be accessible from the park as well as provide internal access from the cricket pavilion. Tennis / Netball Courts:Reinstate two multi-use tennis/netball courts at the rear of the existing stadium. Install electricity conduits and capacity for lighting as a possible future stage.

Develop an additional two tennis courts in the area immediately west of the proposed two tennis/netball courts for possible future expansion of tennis facilities (i.e. additional two courts), include capacity for lighting.

Playing Fields:Line mark J.J Colledge Oval for shared use by cricket and soccer (i.e. accommodate a senior sized soccer pitch). Utilise the cricket pavilion for change rooms and toilet facilities. Commission a report to investigate options to improve drainage of both ovals (NB: consider possible impacts/damage from Folk Festival infrastructure).

Amenity and Functionality Improvements:

Path Network:Designate a network of Primary and Secondary paths, as identified on the illustrated plan, to avoid conflict between pedestrians, vehicles and other users, whilst improving connections, linkages and walking options. Concentrate maintenance efforts to ensure the Primary network is maintained to a minimum of 2.4 wide (i.e. path edging to address encroaching/overgrown grass). Ensure the Secondary network is maintained to a minimum of 1.8m wide.

Install lighting to improve pedestrian safety at key locations. Ensure lighting is low impact to avoid any conflict/confusion with harbour navigation and boating.

Car Parking:Formalise on-street car parking on the south side of Campbell Street in front of the aquatic facility and stadium. Ensure appropriate curb, channel, drainage and footpath connections to access the stadium/aquatics/park facilities. Ensure adequate protection zones are maintained around the heritage listed trees in this area (this may require parallel parking as opposed to angled – subject to detailed design).

Consider opportunities for on-street car parking along James Street once the senescent trees have been removed.

Retain the former asphalt fire track for possible over-flow car parking and Folk Festival use.

James Street Trees:Remove the senescent Cupressus Macrocarpa trees along James Street (approx. 20 trees) to improve safety and functionality of the street (i.e. the narrowness of the street is exacerbated by the location of the trees, which prevent two vehicles passing side by side, this is particularly an issue with cars accessing the caravan park towing vans).

Replant appropriate indigenous / native trees to the west of James Street within Russell Clark reserve.

Park Landscaping:Improve park landscaping in selected locations to enhance visual amenity and the appeal of camp sites. Where practical indigenous/native species should be used, however this may not always be possible to achieve wind breaks and to define camping sites. Planting and vegetation selection should be undertaken in consultation with Council’s Environment officer.

Improve ground surface conditions (i.e. levelling, grass coverage and rock removal) to support camping and ease of maintenance.

SCALE 1:3000

Proposed mixed use courts

Redeveloped tennis courts

Proposed secondary path network

Proposed primary path network

Upgraded informal carparking

Existing buildings & structures

Indicative proposed trees

Proposed lighting

Proposed community open space/informalrecreation/overflow parking

Primary areas for community revegetationand replanting program

Proposed areas of improved ground surfaceconditions

Senescient trees to be removed

Proposed upgraded fence

PLAN LEGEND

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Management & Maintenance:

Southcombe Park Management Committee (SPMC):

The SPMC has been a highly effective management committee operating on behalf of Council. The committee should continue to retain reasonability for ongoing management of the reserve, however a closer relationship with Council may be required in order to ensure ongoing compliance with S86 Committee legislative requirements for reporting and governance. Council must clarify reporting and record keeping requirements and assist the committee to achieve these.

Moine Shire:

Council’s role in relation to ongoing management of the Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve should primarily focus on supporting the SPMC and assisting with funding of major projects and initiatives (either direct funding support and/or assist in securing external grants/funding).

Belfast Aquatics & Stadium:

Council to assist the SPMC to establish effective Asset Management Plans for key assets, facilities and infrastructure in the reserve, including updating the 2007 Building Condition Compliance Audit. Ensure the Asset Management Plans are linked to a defined program of annual works and clearly articulate ongoing maintenance responsibilities.

Maintenance:

Ensure an effective program of drainage maintenance (including dredging and pipe clearing as required) to maintain effective drainage and environmental flow in George Dodd Reserve and Sandy Cove.

RECOMMENDATIONS CONTINUED


7.1 Summary

The table on the following pages outlines the indicative costs and priority for implementa-tion of each specific Master Plan action. The Master Plan should be reviewed annually by Council staff (in consultation with the SPMC) in order to identify key projects for consideration in Council’s annual budget process, with a more formal review occurring every five years in consultation with clubs, stakehold-ers and the community to ensure outstanding actions remain relevant and appropriate. Ultimately funding and timing of implementation will be subject to Council and the SPMC financial capacity, competing demands, partnership opportunities and availability of exter-nal grants. Prioritisation of individual actions is based on the following indicative imple-mentation timeframe:

Short term = 0-3 years Medium term = 3-5 years

Long term = 5+ years

The total cost for implementation of the Master Plan is estimated at approximately $1.4 - $1.7 million and is represented by the following breakdown:

Priority

Short

Medium

Long

Ongoing

Estimated Costs


$745,000 - $825,000

$450, 000 - $615,000

$193,000 - $218,000

$20,000

$1,408,000 - $1,678,000Total

Implementation and Indicative Costs 7

7.2 Actions List


# Action Priority: Masterplan reference

Lead Responsibility

Indicative cost estimate

Comment

1. Develop a stand-alone indoor cricket training facility at the rear of the existing Belfast Aquatics centre. Ensure the facility design maximises opportunities for multi-use, including as a possible training venue for other sports and to support use by the Folk Festival. The building is to have a functional relationship with the existing stadium to enable shared use of change room and toilet facilities. In the long term (10+ years), there may be opportunities to consolidate the overall built form footprint in this area to enable all functions to be housed under one roof and allow the possibility of one management structure.

Short 1 PF Cricket Club & SPMC

$300,000 Council funding and project management support is likely to be required.

2. Upgrade and remodel the public toilets adjacent to the cricket pavilion to better service park users, including improving the sewer capacity/flow. The remodelled toilets to be accessible from the park as well as provide internal access from the cricket pavilion.

Short 2 Council $180,000 - $200,000

3. Reinstate two multi-use tennis/netball courts at the rear of the existing stadium. Install electricity conduits and capacity for lighting as a possible future stage.

Short 3 Council $140,000 - $160,000

Ensure court and fencing design considers opportunities for ongoing use of the area by the Folk Festival, e.g. capacity for heavy vehicles, staging, 3-phase power, removable fence sections, etc.

4. Line mark J.J Colledge Oval for shared use by cricket and soccer (i.e. accommodate a senior sized soccer pitch). Utilise the cricket pavilion for change rooms and toilet facilities.

Short 5 SPMC $5,000 Allowance for initial line marking and purchase of portable goals – options for short-term storage of portable goals will need to be resolved.

7.2 Actions List



Lead Responsibility


Comment

5. Remove the senescent Cupressus Macrocarpa trees along James Street (approximately 20 trees) to improve safety and functionality of the street (i.e. the narrowness of the street is exacerbated by the location of the trees, which prevent two vehicles passing side by side, this is particularly an issue with cars accessing the caravan park towing vans).

Short 12 Council $40,000 - $60,000

6. Upgrade perimeter fencing of the reserve, particularly along Atkinson, Campbell and James Streets, utilising waist high fencing to improve the amenity, appeal and attractiveness. Fencing design to consider options for easy installation of temporary security fencing associated with the annual Folk Festival as required.

Short 18 SPMC $80,000 - $100,000.

Ensure consistent fence style throughout. Minimise visual and character impact from any fencing.

7. Council to assist the SPMC to establish effective Asset Management Plans for key assets, facilities and infrastructure in the reserve, including updating the 2007 Building Condition Compliance Audit. Ensure the Asset Management Plans are linked to a defined program of annual works and clearly articulate ongoing maintenance responsibilities.

Short 22 Council & SPMC

Within existing

resources.

Council to incorporate facility assessments as part of ongoing Asset Management Planning initiatives.

Sub-Total: Short-term: $745,000 - $825,000

8. Commission a report to investigate options to improve drainage of both ovals (NB: consider possible impacts/damage from Folk Festival infrastructure).

Medium 6 Council $5,000 Allowance for engineering/drainage assessment only. Future improvement costs to be determined.

9. Improve ground surface conditions (i.e. levelling, grass coverage and rock removal) to support camping and ease of maintenance.

Medium 15 Council $25,000. Utilise existing Council parks staff and equipment.

7.2 Actions List



Lead Responsibility


Comment

10. Designate a network of Primary and Secondary paths, as identified on the illustrated plan, to avoid conflict between pedestrians, vehicles and other users, whilst improving connections, linkages and walking options. Concentrate maintenance efforts to ensure the Primary network is maintained to a minimum of 2.4 wide (i.e. path edging to address encroaching/overgrown grass). Ensure the Secondary network is maintained to a minimum of 1.8m wide.

Medium 7 Council & SPMC

$100,000 - $150,000

Allowance for initial works only. Future costs to be determined pending detailed paths audit to determine scope of works (maintenance rectification required).

11. Formalise on-street car parking on the south side of Campbell Street in front of the aquatic facility and stadium. Ensure appropriate curb, channel, drainage and footpath connections to access the stadium/aquatics/park facilities. Ensure adequate protection zones are maintained around the heritage listed trees in this area (this may require parallel parking as opposed to angled – subject to detailed design).

Medium 9 Council $150,000-$200,000

Indicative allowance pending detailed assessment and design.

12. Consider opportunities for on-street car parking along James Street once the senescent trees have been removed.

Medium 10 Council $50,000 - $80,000

Allowance for un-sealed car parking only.

13. Replant appropriate indigenous / native trees to the west of James Street within Russell Clark reserve.

Medium 13 Council $5,000 Explore opportunities for revegetation initiatives with the local community and environment groups.

14. Explore opportunities for community involvement in a revegetation and replanting program throughout the park, particularly the south west corner (i.e. corner of Ocean Drive and James Street) and selectively within George Dodds Reserve.

Medium 16 Council $15,000 - $20,000

7.2 Actions List



Lead Responsibility


Comment

15. Explore opportunities to work with local artists to design and install appropriate public art, signage and entry features at key locations.

Medium 17 Council & SPMC

$20,000 - $30,000

Ensure any infrastructure is robust and requires minimal ongoing maintenance.

16. Asphalt seal the access road off Atkinson Street leading to the informal grass car parking area servicing the cricket ovals.

19 Council & SPMC

$80,000 - $100,000

Ensure the road seal considers capacity to take heavy vehicles associated with the PFFF.

Sub-Total: Medium-term: $450,000 - $615-000

17. Develop an additional two tennis courts in the area immediately west of the proposed two tennis/netball courts for possible future expansion of tennis facilities (i.e. additional two courts), include capacity for lighting.

Long 4 Council $140,000 - $160,000

Subject to confirmation of future demand.

18. Install lighting to improve pedestrian safety at key locations. Ensure lighting is low impact to avoid any conflict/confusion with harbour navigation and boating.

Long 8 Council $48,000 8 locations x $6,000 each.

Consider solar lighting options.

19. Improve park landscaping in selected locations to enhance visual amenity and the appeal of camp sites. Where practical indigenous/native species should be used, however this may not always be possible to achieve wind breaks and to define camping sites. Planting and vegetation selection should be undertaken in consultation with Council’s Environment officer.

Long 14 Council $5,000 - $10,000

Sub-Total: Long-term: $193,000 - $218,000

7.2 Actions List



Lead Responsibility


Comment

20. Retain the western end of the former asphalt fire track for possible over-flow car parking and Folk Festival use.

Ongoing 11 SPMC N/A

21. The SPMC has been a highly effective management committee operating on behalf of Council. The committee should continue to retain reasonability for ongoing management of the reserve, however a closer relationship with Council may be required in order to ensure ongoing compliance with S86 Committee legislative requirements for reporting and governance. Council must clarify reporting and record keeping requirements and assist the committee to achieve these.

Ongoing 20 Council & SPMC

Within existing

resources.

Council officer support to be provided to SPMC as required to ensure compliance requirements are understood and capable of being achieved.

22. Council’s role in relation to ongoing management of the Southcombe Park Recreation Reserve should primarily focus on supporting the SPMC and assisting with funding of major projects and initiatives (either direct funding support and/or assist in securing external grants/funding).

Ongoing 21 Council Within existing

resources.

Continue to provide funding assistance and support external grant applications as appropriate.

23. Ensure an effective program of drainage maintenance (including dredging and pipe clearing as required) to maintain effective drainage and environmental flow in George Dodd Reserve and Sandy Cove.

Ongoing 23 Council $20,000 Indicative allowance only to support additional maintenance / cleaning of existing drains throughout the year.

Sub-Total: Ongoing: $20,000

Total: $1,408,000 – $1,678,000

7.2 Actions List


Exclusions and Assumptions

The indicative costs are provided for budget guidance purposes only, the cost of individual projects may vary significantly depending on the construction method used, materials, site conditions, engineering requirements and final designs.

The following exclusions and assumptions have been made in determining the indicative cost information:

Prices do not include GST.

No allowance has been made for professional fees (i.e. building and construction drawings), these could add a further 10% to key individual projects.

No allowance has been made for a project contingency, a minimum allowance of 5% of the total project cost is recommended.

No allowance has been made for volunteer labour or in-kind support.

No allowance has been made for the use of second hand or recycled materials.

No allowance has been made for statutory planning costs (if required).

Prices quoted are based on current rates, no allowance has been made for cost escalations associated with time delays.

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Conclusion 8

The Southcombe Park Master Plan has been developed to guide future improvements and management of the reserve in order to address the contemporary needs of existing user groups whist supporting and enhancing opportunities for broad community use, including ongoing use by the annual Port Fairy Folk Festival. The plan responds to community and stakeholder feedback, including a strong desire to improve existing sporting infrastructure and reinforce the reserve as an important recreation and open space precinct. The Master Plan identifies a recommended location for the proposed Indoor Cricket facility within a consolidated footprint of built form, thereby maintaining open view lines and maximising opportunities for multi-use of assets, facilities and infrastructure.

Progressive implementation of the Master Plan will help reinforce the site as a treasured open space and vibrant hub of community activity.


Appendix

9.1 Consultation Summary

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development of the Masterplan including with Council’s nominated Project Control Group, key tenant user groups of the site, and the surrounding community to identify initial issues, opportunities, needs and aspirations for the Southcombe Park Precinct. The consultation process involved the following activities:

User group and community consultation was based around six (6) key questions:

A summary of the key issues, comments or suggestions raised from the consultation activities is presented on the following pages.

Review of community and stakeholder submissions;

On-site inspection of the park precinct and the facilities;

Group meeting with nominated Project Control Group (PCG) representatives;

On site group meeting with identified key user groups and organisations;

General community meeting; and

Telephone interviews with Port Fairy Basketball Club and “Dirty Angels” Roller Derby Club members.

What is working well?

What is not?

Any other issues or challenges (not listed above)?

What would you like to see changed or improved? Are there opportunities to consolidate infrastructure?* Opportunities for shared use facilities? Removal of underutilised infrastructure?

What do you consider to be the main priorities for: Future infrastructure development. Management.

Consultation with key stakeholders has occurred throughout the

*This question was not covered during the General Community Meeting.

9.2 Stakeholder Consultation Summary


Stakeholder Key Issues, Comments or Suggestions Potential Implications & Opportunities for the

Masterplan Project Control Group1 & Project Manager

Identifying an appropriate location for the proposed indoor cricket facility was the primary catalyst for the Master Plan development.

The caravan park is it functioning well and contributes valuable revenue for Council to help off-set operating costs, including Belfast Aquatic facility.

Netball courts are not currently used for netball, but are used for the folk festival (emergency services, toilets etc).

Soccer users are currently utilising playing fields for training (with temporary goals), but would like to establish a formal club.

The roller derby team ‘Dirty Angels’ currently utilise the indoor basketball facilities on a trial basis for training only, and no issues with this use have been reported.

The facility has previously accommodated a women’s netball team, who are interested in reintroducing the sport at this location.

Soccer users and the Port Fairy Tennis Club have expressed a desire to potentially utilise any new indoor cricket facility for training activities.

A few sites for the new cricket club facility have been identified but issues have been found with each (eg with Folk Festival/other uses/existing infrastructure locations). The club have identified a preferred location but this does not avoid the existing sewer line.

Folk festival will contribute funding the new cricket facility and therefore also want access to use it; however they have not found the locations suggested (to date) satisfactory.

The cricket club feel a sense of ownership of the ovals as they provide a significant amount of the labour to maintain them (with the caravan park managing the balance of the reserve).

The most recent proposed site for the development of the indoor cricket facility is within the caravan park and would include the removal of around 20 of the best camping sites in the park with established native trees and regular bookings for the last 10-15 years. These sites have a value of $48 a night for 5 months (plus an increased rate during the folk festival), with the whole park turning over $1.1 million per year. The caravan park attracts people who come every year to Port Fairy during the holiday season and generations of families in these spots have created a sense of ‘neighbourhood’ (i.e. not just transient weekenders). For the campers

Explore multi use options for any new indoor cricket facility, e.g. indoor soccer and tennis.

Identify appropriate location and footprint for the indoor cricket facility based on current needs and predicted uses.

Explore opportunities to create / improve connections from the reserve to the wider surrounds.

Improve ground surface conditions a George Dodds Reserve to support effective maintenance and camping.

Investigate opportunities for redevelopment of the outdoor netball courts (potentially to multiuse).

1 The nominated Project Control Group for the project includes the following representatives:

Council’s Manager of Recreation and Community Development; Recreation Services Officer; Manager Assets; Strategic Planner; and Manager of Corporate Business.



utilising these sites the main selling points are the environmental character and the location, which should not be underestimated. If 20 powered sites are removed then 20 more will need to be developed to replace them. If the caravan park is to be reconfigured then additional amenities would also be needed, and it would not be easy to reconfigure to obtain the same quality level of camping spots. The area identified was originally part of what Section 86 Committee considered to be their land.

Support of the indoor cricket facility based on use has been established, but no support based on location has been gained so far.

The Belfast Aquatic Centre is community built, owned and run and Council currently contributes in the order of $150k per annum (out of the caravan park revenue) to support this.

The indoor stadium is Council owned and opened in June 1986; with external cladding work soon be completed on this facility.

This facility has also been previously used to accommodate netball and there is a desire to reuse it in this capacity, however it currently only meets basketball sizing requirements.

The toilet block located between the two ovals is nearing the end of it’s lifespan. The cricket pavilion is in very good condition and is also built and maintained by the Cricket

Club, however no toilets are provided inside the structure. The large shed on site is currently used for Folk Festival storage. The perimeter fencing is a Council asset, and the Section 86 committee is currently getting a

report done on which sections of it require replacing. The style of fence (barbed wire topped) is considered appropriate to accommodate Folk Festival security needs.

The path network for the park was completed in the early 1990’s and may require upgrading. It was originally 1.8m wide and has had minimal upgrade work completed (two new sections and patch/renew maintenance). The current standards dictate a minimum width of 2.4m is required. At a minimum, maintenance for the grass abutting paths needs to be increased.

Council often receives requests for public lighting to be provided in the precinct; however the installation of new lighting systems in certain locations may cause a possible impact on river navigation (which will need to be investigated).

Maintenance issues and difficulties are present at George Dodds reserve in association with its past use as a golf course and there are also issues with the maintenance required for the Sandy Cove drainage system not being conducted often enough.

Earthworks are required to make it easier for campers due to the presence of ‘floater’ rocks. The existing CFA fire track has only been used once in 22 years but historical nostalgia exists

around it. Planting principles (related to native vegetation character) need to be developed, particularly

for use with re-plantings in the caravan park. Pest species currently cause significant damage to facilities (e.g. turf) within the park including



corellas and rabbits. The process that needs to be completed to implement control mechanisms is resource intensive and no rabbit control has been conducted since 2007.

The cypress trees on James Street are senescent and may need to be removed.

Identified key user groups2

User groups consider the following to be the main priorities for the future infrastructure development, management and maintenance of Southcombe Park: Priority Future infrastructure development Finding an appropriate location for Indoor cricket. Redevelopment of the existing tennis facilities including resurfacing of tennis courts and

provision of lighting and a clubroom facility (including change rooms and storage provision), to support the tennis club and visitor / tourism use.

Carparking and lighting (especially in front of the indoor stadium). Installation of solar panels and water tanks. Development of a soccer pitch and a use agreement (e.g. if shared use of the pitch and oval is

proposed then adequate timetabling will be needed). Toilet block (cricket/public use). Expansion / refurbishment of Belfast Aquatics Centre (e.g. entry and gym area). Consider opportunities for expansion of the Caravan Park. Additional revenue generated from

this could help fund improvement initiatives. Management Implementation of use agreements to manage time allocation. Support for new sports / groups. Grow representation and volunteer base for the SPMC (e.g. Folk Festival has stepped down

from having a representative member on the SPMC). If new uses/users are to be accommodated in the park (such as soccer) then they should also be represented on the SPMC.

Users recognised that identifying issues is an important step but that there needs to be provision of funds to support changes. It was suggested that creation of a management model to fund Southcombe Park, including the creation of a charitable (tax deductible) ‘Future Fund’ or foundation could be explored. Proceeds from the Folk Festival could be a key revenue source for future improvement initiatives.

Investigate options to establish a soccer pitch.

Support redevelopment of tennis facilities including resurfacing of tennis courts,

provision of lighting and a clubroom facility (including change rooms and storage provision) to support the tennis club and visitor / tourism use.

Identify an appropriate location for an indoor cricket facility.

Investigate opportunities to improve

carparking and lighting, in particular in front of the indoor stadium.

Investigate the implementation of sustainability initiatives to existing buildings such as solar panels and water tanks.

2 This meeting was attended by 17 total participants with the following groups represented: Belfast Aquatics; Southcombe Park Management

Committee; Port Fairy Tennis Club; Port Fairy Fire Brigade; Port Fairy Folk Festival Committee; Soccer Group; Port Fairy Cricket Club; Moyneyana Festival; Port Fairy Folk Festival; Port Fairy Massage; Port Fairy Football and Netball Club



Maintenance Access / paths. Plan for forward maintenance obligations, particularly associated with new/additional

infrastructure. Consider that everything that is built from now on has to have a plan for its ongoing maintenance (e.g. repainting; replanting). Developed maintenance plans should also include what already exists at the park.

Consider other revenue streams to support the park (e.g. corporate sponsorship, signage, naming rights, etc.).

More recognition of the “value” of volunteers is needed, plus greater recognition that many of the reserve’s assets were developed by volunteers and that there is a sense of ownership due to the monetary and time contribution provided.

Involve Belfast Aquatic in future management and development, who are currently quite separate and not represented on the SPMC.

Greater Council support for maintenance and infrastructure development is needed.

Port Fairy Basketball Club (Port Fairy Pacers) & “Dirty Angels” Roller Derby

As these user groups were unable to attend the organised stakeholder meeting they were emailed a summary of the information gathered and contacted by phone to discuss. Both club representatives expressed general agreement with the points raised and provided the following additional points: Roller Derby Expressed that they were looking for a long term relationship in regards to use of the site. Basketball Support multipurpose facilities and sharing. Would ideally like to have two (2) courts in the future. The club is currently experiencing

demand resulting in kids on waiting lists and game scheduling conflicts. The club experiences issues with finding volunteers and is currently seeking to change its

committee members. Would like to see equity of funding for all user groups. Basketball use is required to cease for three (3) weeks due to the Folk Festival and one (1)

week due to a school concert. The club would like a facility that could host tournaments. The club currently has no issues with the Roller Derby use of the court. The club has 15 teams of around eight participants plus a breakfast program that they run on

Friday mornings during school terms of 25-30 kids. Club considers the interior of the indoor stadium to be currently in pretty good condition, but

would like to see padding installed around the steel beams at courts ends. The club requires increased monetary support as the cost of supplying uniforms.

Support ongoing use of the stadium for Basketball and other activities, including Roller Derby.

Review SPMC financial management to ensure an equitable basis for revenue sharing amongst user groups.

Install padding inside the stadium where required.



The club feels a bigger carpark is definitely needed, with it being difficult during busy times (e.g. after school on Wednesdays).

Wider Community (post meeting 29/06)3

SPMC identified as one of only a few management committees in the Shire that make a profit at the end of the year (and has done for the last 20 years).

Moyne Health is currently utilising one of the squash courts on a temporary basis with debate around whether they will be relocating to another day centre.

Drainage is identified as an issue, with the cricket club and oval areas experiencing pools of water and flood if it is a wet winter season.

The Folk Festival is considered to be working well, particularly in terms of it’s bump in/out schedule and the revenue and tourism it generates.

Leisure and informal use of the park also considered to be working well (e.g. walking, riding). Co-tenancy of Southcombe Park stadium is currently working well. Cricket club is considered to be working well, and maintain their facility with no reliance on

Council. The cricket pavilion is a beautiful facility (both the club house and green), and this area as a whole creates the feeling of a village green.

Aquatic centre is working well including all ages usage and gym facilities, and membership has increased over the last few years.

Open space within the park is working well, including outdoor sports facilities and visitors ability to enjoy the natural environment. It is aesthetically and environmentally a very nice park. Maintaining the amenity and aesthetic attributes of the park was important to residents (e.g. preservation of open space and native vegetation). Maintaining the open space long sight lines and ‘openness’ characteristics was also considered important.

Caravan park is well integrated and not used all year round which is considered appropriate. Parking adjacent to the pool and stadium has only one entry/ exit point and is an issue in peak

periods. It is considered to be too small, with safety; lighting; design and functionality issues. However concern was raised regarding possible over development to cater for limited peak periods of demand. Ongoing use of on street parking is considered appropriate.

Tennis courts are currently in poor condition however there are approximately 100 kids for the Hotshots summer competition. Users suggested four (4) courts be resurfaced with hot-mix.

Timing / season clashes occurring between uses is considered an issue (e.g. cricket and Folk Festival)

The cricket lighting towers (3) have been removed (which is said not be an issue for cricket, football or the Folk Festival) however general park lighting (and potentially Folk Festival

Support ongoing use and development of the reserve as a consolidated sporting “precinct”.

Maintain open vista and amenity. Maintain the ‘village’ feel and enhance the

character of the reserve. ‘Industrial’ development (style / scale) should be avoided.

3 This meeting was attended by 15 participants, and included representation from the following groups: Southcombe Park Management

Committee; Port Fairy Tennis Club; Port Fairy Cricket Club; Port Fairy Folk Festival; adjoining neighbours; and residents.



lighting) is an issue. Parking along James Street causes problems over the summer period with the road width and

circulation (cars and caravans) an issue. Emergency services access to the park, including the cricket grounds, is an issue. Preventing general vehicles from entering the park (through the carpark) is an issue. The cricket toilet facilities require upgrading. Outdoor netball courts are potentially not needed and have not been used in approximately

15 years. Netball Club has expressed interest in using the stadium for training. Currently only one squash court is used for squash (with the remaining two housing unrelated

uses) with some call to promote re-use of these courts for squash purposes. Toilets at the basketball stadium require upgrading (including for disabled use). Would like to see multi-purpose stadium cater for tennis; cricket; netball; and the Folk Festival. Ground is sometimes too wet for football use. Some users would like to see the Norfolk Island Pine Trees on Campbell Street protected (re

parking concerns). There are currently drainage issues in Campbell Street (no curb/channel causing flooding)

which the users would like to see improved as they are causing an impact on the road surface. This is identified as a busy road in full use which ideally requires bike tracks / lane.

Users identified that more rubbish bins were needed at entrances Question of whether squash (which has declined in numbers since moving to this location) is a

dying sport or the courts are not being used because potential players are not aware they are there.

Question raised over why the Cricket Club has to go in this park and not elsewhere in the township.

Development of a multipurpose stadium (incorporating tennis/cricket/netball/folkies use). Continue to support the folk festival and recognise the benefits it provides. Develop sporting “precinct” as a whole. Maintain open vista and amenity. Recognise volunteerism. Maintain ‘village’ feel, development does not need to be ‘big and modern’. Ensure there is equal access / access for all users with no one group having more control than

the other. The space should be used for recreation (future, current and informal). Multi-use, coexistence and good-will cooperation should be promoted.

More sport options for kids. ‘Industrial’ development (style / scale) should be avoided. Care needs to be taken as there is a

risk of destroying what has been created (i.e. park character).

9.3 Summary of Community Submissions Received on Draft Master Plan Report


Respondent Key issues / Comment Response in Plan

George Dummett

o Main concern is to consider the overall amenity of the space, how it used by the various user groups and the neighbouring community i.e.: o Consider relationship of other users at SP i.e.: Southcombe

Lodge, Senior Citizens residence. o The amenity of parking and the heritage trees o Fencing around park – not high security, but same as on

Atkinson that can be raised with extensions at the time of the PFFF.

o Cricket parking on the reserve and entrance into the park at high speed - suggests speed signs. There are also issues with the dust this access generates.

o Requests consideration of vegetation around the perimeter of the park

o Noted. Future development will consider all users o All future parking plans will consider the impact on the heritage

listed trees. o Perimeter fencing that fronts residents on Campbell and

Atkinson streets recommended half height with opportunity to increase for Festival security requirements to be negotiated with PFFF & Southcombe Park Committee.

o Speed sign to be installed. o Not supported by other consultation and therefore not included

in recommendations.

Southcombe Park Committee of Management

o Felt the process has been rushed and would like more time to give considered opinion to each of the recommendations and the potential impact they could have on users at the Park.

o Detailed the history of the land taken over by the caravan park o Raise several error details i.e.: only 1 court available for squash o Main concern seems to be a consistent misconception that the

buildings in recommendation 1 & 2 will be happening immediately. o Concern therefore for costly management structure – rather

than using current committee of management model

o Acknowledged. Respondents will have a 2nd chance to review document changes and resubmit comments.

o Noted. o Report adjusted to amend error. o Recommendation 1 will show standalone building.

Recommendation 2 is deleted. o Retain existing structure and management model

G. Johnson o Main point related to landscaping and adding colour to the Park – particularly the lake area

o No change. Landscaping and selection of plants is based on the appropriateness of the plant to the area.

Richard Hodgens o Provides detailed comment to specific recommendations i.e.: costing for drainage #7, priority listing for #6 linemarking and cost of the indoor cricket facility (ICF).

o Main point relates to internal paths. No discussion around cricket car parking but it is this use that stimulates the comment. Also, maybe some confusion into what is a major vs minor path vs internal road.

o Recommend to fund an investigation into drainage costs.

o Noted. Investigate further as part of entry to informal cricket car parking area.



Port Fairy Folk Festival o Main concern is with the placement of buildings and the future use.

o Considering current use of the reserve and current layout of folk festival marquees, toilets, stages etc. Folky map provided.

o Further discussion with PFFF and PFCC representatives to resolve festival concerns but maintaining Recommendation 1 as a standalone building behind the pool, with a functional relationship with the stadium.

Port Fairy Cricket Club o Discusses the various locations for the proposed ICF and laments the fact the building will need to be multi-functional.

o States the ICF is a $300,000 project which will be funded mainly by the Cricket Club, some support from Council.

o Discussion regarding shared use of ICF for tennis and netball training. Shared use also for the stadium toilets and change rooms required.

o Agree with the soccer ground and declare the cricket pavilion could be shared over winter by a soccer club.

o Agree with the upgrade of the toilet next to the cricket pavilion but suggests this should be made part of the building.

o Comment re damage the Folky generates on the ground each year.

o Provides an opinion on drainage – thinks money would be better spent on oval surface.

o Path networks – endorses the idea of sealing the road/path from Atkinson Street and suggests removing the proposed path at the southern end of College Oval.

o Fencing- want it to be renewal rather than upgrade so it is replaced like for like.

o Suggests that public art/entry features are not required.

o Standalone facility located behind the pool will have functional relationship with stadium.

o Current users of stadium and Southcombe Park facilities maintain their current use.

o Noted. o Recommendation 3 - incorporate public toilets as part of the

existing cricket building, to be used for events, accessible from within the building and has disabled access facilities.

o Potential damage to ground surface will be effectively managed by having a pre & post walk through of the site involving Council, PFFF, Cricket and Management committee.

o Recommend to fund an investigation into drainage costs. o Path network will take into account informal cricket car parking

area. o Perimeter fencing that fronts residents on Campbell and

Atkinson streets recommended half height with opportunity to increase for Festival security requirements, to be negotiated with PFFF & Southcombe Park Committee.

o Art comments noted, no change to plan.

Margaret Whitehead o Discussion re amenity of the Park – not too much asphalt o Questions the viability of the tennis club based on their previous

reputation when they disbanded as a club o Similar view to Cricket and Folky to have ICF located at James St. o Very supportive of folk festival and that the master plan needs to

be considerate of their activity.

o Comments noted, no change required.



Bernard Waixel o Support the location of the ICF at either James St or caravan park and as Treasurer of the PFFF, states the Folky needs to be considered as a major stakeholder in the final outcomes. The options have to work for Folky.

o Not sure if the Folky could use the ICF because of the tension nets.

o Comments noted, no change required.

Belfast Aquatics o Main concern is with recommendation # 2 relating to combined management structure and a consolidated building. The group is confused as to when this development would occur and have the understanding it could be a short term priority.

o The group is developing current plans for extension within the current footprint and improvement.

o Recommendation 2 is deleted. Keep pool management and infrastructure as current practice in the foreseeable future.

Port Fairy Tennis Club o P15 Rec4 – Suggest rewording for tennis courts recommendation o P15 Rec 5 - the club business plan proposes a future change of

surface from hot mix to synthetic acrylic.

o Retain recommendation 4 & 5 for staged tennis court development, however incorporate underground infrastructure to support future lighting installation.

southcombe park - shire of moyne · 2015-12-23 · southcombe park master plan - december 2015 2...

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