synthetic sports surfaces feasibility study€¦ · options for the development of synthetic sports...

Synthetic Sports Surfaces Feasibility Study Stage 1

Synthetic Sports Surfaces Feasibility Study Page | 2

About this document The purpose of the study is to examine the potential need, demand and suitability of the use of synthetic sports surfaces within Monash and give direction on the potential future provision of synthetic sports surfaces to meet the needs of clubs, Council and the local community. The Study provides analysis, advice and recommendations regarding the planning, development and future management of synthetic sports surfaces under Council’s ownership and management responsibility.

Acknowledgments The project steering group wish to acknowledge the assistance provided by individuals that participated in stakeholder meetings, site visits and consultation interviews throughout the development of the Strategy. The Project Steering Group included:

- Julie Salomon, Director Community Development & Services - Ossie Martinz, Director Infrastructure - James Collins, Manager Youth & Active Communities - Carly Goodrich, Strategic Leisure Planner - James Paterson, Manager Engineering - Phillip Plumb, Manager Horticulture - Lucas Skelton, Coordinator Sport and Park Maintenance Services

A special thank you to the contributions from the local soccer and athletics club committees, surrounding local government authorities, and local schools in the development of the study.


Table of contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Page 4

INTRODUCTION Page 6

METHODOLOGY Page 8

STRATEGIC AND POLICY CONTEXT Page 10

FACILITY OVERVIEW Page 12

Existing Provision Page 12

Existing Management Page 13

Potential Sites Review Page 13

SPORT SPECIFIC INFLUENCES Page 15

Athletics Page 15

Soccer Page 16

CONSULTATION Page 18

Local Clubs Page 18

Internal Council Departments Page 20

Local Council Benchmarking Page 21

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS Page 23

APPENDICES

Appendix 1 Consultation list Page 27

Appendix 2 Club Survey Page 28

Appendix 3 Summary of Synthetic Sports Surface Facilities in Monash 1

Appendix 4 Summary of Synthetic Sports Surface Facilities in Neighbouring LGA's Page 32

Appendix 5 Map – Potential Sites Page 34

Appendix 6 Potential Sites Assessment Tool Page 35

Appendix 7 Potential Sites Assessment Summary Page 36

Appendix 8 Proposed Capital Works Program Page 39


Executive Summary The objective of the Synthetic Sports Surfaces Feasibility Study is to provide strategic direction for the future planning, provision and management of synthetic sports surfaces in Monash. Monash City Council manages and maintains more than 80 sports fields catering for a wide variety of sports and activities such as cricket, football, soccer, rugby, bocce, croquet, archery, baseball, athletics, fitness training, dog obedience training, school sport and informal social activities. Many of Council’s natural turf surfaces have been impacted by prolonged drought conditions and subsequently heavy rainfall. The overuse of sports fields due to rapid growth in participation, and lack of alternative venues has lead to the provision of synthetic sports surfaces becoming a viable option for consideration. The study encompassing stages 1 & 2 will assess the need and evaluate the current provisions and options for the development of synthetic sports surfaces in Monash. Stage 1 of the study will determine priorities for soccer and athletics, with Stage 2 focusing on wider priorities for other sports including hockey, bowls, tennis, aussie rules football, cricket, rugby league, rugby union. Stage 1 of the feasibility study will: Review and document the existing soccer and athletics facilities within the municipality. Conduct research and consider existing strategies and plans for the development of

synthetic sports surfaces. Identify deficiencies and future aspirations in the provision of synthetic sports surfaces

through a combination of industry research, professional expertise and stakeholder engagement. Investigate current trends in the provision of recreation and sporting facilities.

Identify possible options available to address the identified needs and recommend new development and/or upgrade options and opportunities. Assess the advantages, disadvantages and sustainability of each option and identify preferred options for implementation.

Establish planning principles for future decision making. Determine priorities and recommendations for a long-term implementation plan.

Key stakeholders consulted in the development of the study included Council officers, local sporting clubs and associations and neighbouring Councils. A range of techniques were utilised, including individual meetings, phone consultations and survey data collection. Thirteen local soccer and athletic sporting clubs were invited to complete a survey to help identify key issues and current and future facility provision for synthetic surfaces. The survey results indicated that almost all clubs expect to retain existing member numbers or grow in the next five years. This presents a number of key issues and challenges for clubs including their capacity to respond to growth in participation through the adequate provision of facilities and the recruitment, retainment and demands on volunteers to administer sport. Overall, clubs indicated that they are supportive of synthetic surfaces as they increase access and all round playability. However some clubs indicated that maintenance costs and general upkeep of synthetic surfaces could be challenging and may have a significant impact on participation and the level of competition played. Clubs indicated that opportunity to increase participation, ensuring the existing playing surface is fit for purpose and the existing facility provision are most important principles that Council should base future decision making. Seventeen site inspections were conducted of the existing soccer and athletics facilities. The


assessment process involved the inspection of the playing surface, associated infrastructure and observational assessment of the site’s overall potential suitability to accommodate future synthetic surface development. In addition documentation of current use, purpose of facility, capacity for future growth provided a recommendation in relation to each reserve. Each reserve was consequently categorised as high priority, low priority or not suitable. Recommendations considered the analysis of sporting requirements and future trends, community consultation and site inspections. Priorities for the short term are outlined below. Location Users Project Estimated

Cost Timing

Southern Catchment (Jack Edwards Reserve)

Lead Tenant: Oakleigh Cannons Football Club Other Users: Monash City JFC Waverley Wanderers FC

Synthetic Soccer Facility: 1 full sized & 1 junior sized pitch Sportslighting, fencing upgrade required

$1M Design 2013/2014 Construction 2014 -2016

North Eastern Catchment (Potentially Glen Waverley North Reserve, Capital Reserve or school site)

Lead Tenant: Glen Waverley Junior Soccer Club Other Users: Waverley Victory FC Brandon Park FC

Synthetic Soccer Facility: 1 full sized & potentially 1 junior sized pitch Sportslighting, fencing, car park upgrade required

$1.1M Investigation & consultation 2013/2014 Design 2014/2015 Construction 2016 -2018

Davies Reserve Oakleigh Little Athletics Synthetic Athletics Track: 400m track and field arena Consider pavilion and car park upgrade

$600K Design 2014/2015 Construction 2018/2019

Western Catchment (Gardiners Reserve)

Lead Tenant: Eastern Lions Soccer Club Other Users: Ashburton Women’s SC

Synthetic Soccer Facility: 1 full sized pitch Sportslighting, fencing, car park upgrade required Consider pavilion upgrade


The north eastern catchment site will need to cater for both cricket and soccer. Furthermore, Capital Reserve and Southern Reserve are pending decisions on their future use as they currently do not have permanent winter tenants. Further investigation and consultation with tenant clubs and the community will occur before any design and construction is considered. It is also recommended that Council continue to support the improvement of sportslighting, pavilions and grounds through the annual budget process. Priority should be given to improving playing surfaces with a ‘whole of reserve’ approach to upgrades. In addition, Council should consider sporting club contributions for the installation of synthetic surfaces and review Council’s fees and charges policy taking into consideration life cycle and maintenance costs.


Introduction The City of Monash is 81.5 square kilometres, located 20km southeast of the CBD and contains the suburbs of Wheelers Hill, Mulgrave, Glen Waverley, Mount Waverley, Ashwood, Huntingdale, Notting Hill, Clayton, Oakleigh, Hughesdale, Oakleigh East and parts of Chadstone, Burwood and Oakleigh South. Monash is bounded by the Cities of Boroondara, Stonington, Glen Eira in the west, the City of Whitehorse in the north, the City of Knox in the east, and the Cities of Greater Dandenong and Kingston in the south. Monash is one of Melbourne’s most populous municipalities, with an estimated residential population of 177,970 people living in more than 65,500 dwellings. It is a highly diverse and cosmopolitan city. In 2011, 51% of our residents were born in Australia and 45% who were born overseas having come from more than 45 different countries. Monash is recognised as an impressive and enticing area for families, with good metropolitan accessibility, quality residential areas and high quality open space – there are 332 hectares of reserves and sports fields and 244 hectares of passive open space. Monash is an attractive location for sport, leisure and recreational activity and therefore will require careful planning and management in order to provide for the expected pressures created by the increase in population and development. The City of Monash has more than 80 ‘active reserves’ currently used for activities such as cricket, football, soccer, rugby, bocce, croquet, archery, baseball, athletics, fitness training, dog obedience training, school sport and informal social activities. Many of Council’s natural turf surfaces have been impacted by prolonged drought conditions and heavy rainfall. The overuse of sports fields due to rapid growth in participation, and lack of alternative venues has lead to the provision of synthetic sports surfaces becoming a viable option. Demand for a range of training activities and facilities, access to water resources and the provision of and access to existing sporting facilities have been the key drivers for the preparation of this study. The majority of Council’s active reserves consist of natural turf playing surfaces, with synthetic sports surfaces concentrated at tennis, bowls, hockey and synthetic cricket wicket facilities. In 2010 the Active Reserves Strategy (Stage 1) recommended that Council undertake a feasibility study for synthetic surfaces. This study encompasses Stage 1 and will assess the need and evaluate the current provisions and options for the development of synthetic sports surfaces in Monash City Council. Stage 1 of the study to determine priorities for soccer and athletics, with Stage 2 focusing on wider priorities for other sports including hockey, bowls, tennis, aussie rules football, cricket, rugby league, rugby union. Stage 1 will: Review and document the existing soccer and athletics facilities within the municipality;

Conduct research and consider existing strategies and plans for the development of

synthetic sports surfaces;

Identify deficiencies and future aspirations in the provision of synthetic sports surfaces through a combination of industry research, professional expertise and stakeholder engagement. Investigate current trends in the provision of recreation and sporting facilities;

Identify possible options available to address the identified needs and recommend new


development and/or upgrade options and opportunities. Assess the advantages, disadvantages and sustainability of each option and identify preferred options for implementation;

Establish planning principles for future decision making; and

Determine priorities and recommendations for a long-term implementation plan.


Methodology The brief for the study emphasised the need for a highly consultative methodology. In response a detailed project plan was developed which provided key stakeholders with opportunities to contribute to the project and determinations from the study.

There were three key phases to the project as described in the following diagram.

Within this overall project framework there were four key information collection stages that were undertaken. These are briefly detailed below.

Internal consultations

Meetings with key internal stakeholders including staff from:

Youth & Active Communities Horticultural Services Engineering Sustainable Infrastructure and Emergency Management Capital Works Finance

Online survey of soccer and athletic clubs

Online survey providing soccer and athletic clubs with the opportunity to contribute to the study and at the same time provide Council with some strong quantitative data and information about users’ needs and future plans.

The survey covered a range of topics of interest including:

Current and future intentions in regards to participant numbers Facility demand Assessment of current infrastructure Decision making principles Potential management models for synthetic surfaces A total of thirteen (13) club presidents and secretaries were invited to participate in the survey. A total of eight (8) were received representing eight (8) individual sporting clubs

Face to face consultations with tenant clubs

All tenant clubs were invited to meet with Council Officers in late July. One (1) tenant club took up the invitation.

In addition, the study included extensive review, research and evaluation of existing reference documents and benchmarking of existing studies and facilities, in particular facilities in the eastern region. Site assessments were also completed to determine potential sites and review existing capacity.


External Key stakeholders included:

Local soccer clubs Ashburton Women’s SC, Brandon Park FC, Dandenong Casuals, Eastern Lions SC, Glen Waverley Junior SC, Monash City FC, Oakleigh Cannons FC, Victorian Sikh Association, Waverley Victory FC, Waverley Wanderers FC

Local athletics clubs Oakleigh Little Athletics, Waverley Little Athletics, Athletics Waverley

Peak sporting bodies Football Federation Victoria, Athletics Victoria, Little Athletics Victoria

Eastern Region LGA’s Cities of Knox, Kingston, Greater Dandenong, Whitehorse, Boroondara, Glen Eira, Manningham and Stonington

Refer to Appendix 1 for a detailed list of stakeholders included in consultation and Appendix 2 for a template of the Club Survey.


Strategic and policy context

A targeted literature review was conducted as a part of this Study to ensure that all proposed directions and recommendations are consistent with Councils and peak sporting body’s policies, preferences and strategic directions. The following documents were reviewed as part of this study: Monash Council Plan 2013-2017, Monash City Council Active Reserves Strategy (Stage 1 & 2), Monash City Council New Artificial Grass for Sport Guide (2011), Sport & Recreation Victoria Open Space Planning & Design Guide (2013) Football Federation Victoria Rules of Competition – Minimum Requirements of Venue Athletics Australia Stadia Construction Paper & Brief for Athletic Stadium

Key recommendations of the relevant literature and details of their implications on synthetic sport surface planning, provision and management are as follows: Monash Council Plan 2013-2017 Monash Council Plan 2013-2017 has a number of key directions that support the development of facilities and services that increase participation in sporting activities. These include: 1. Ensuring our city has inviting places and spaces. 1.1 Enhanced parks, open spaces, walking & cycling trails across the City

1.1.1 Review the accessibility and quality of public open spaces across Monash – for development of a new Public Open Space Strategy for Monash

1.1.3 Further develop amenities & facilities within parks & reserves that reflect preferences expressed by communities.

2. Achieving a healthy, ACT!VE Monash community 2.1 Increased use of our parks, open spaces and leisure facilities.

2.1.2 Work with local sporting clubs and community groups to maximise the use of parks, open spaces and Council’s leisure facilities

3. Fostering confident and connected communities

4. Taking actions for our future Active Reserves Strategy (Stage 1 & 2) A number of key implications regarding the future provision, planning and management of synthetic surfaces were identified following a review of existing facilities and consultation with sporting clubs. A key recommendation of the strategy is to develop a Synthetic Sports Surfaces Policy, for the provision and management of synthetic sports surfaces in Monash. Other key findings included: The majority of key sports within Monash are likely to experience market demand growth over

the next 5 – 10 years (predominately soccer), with the ageing population likely to influence activity choices.

Sport specific planning has identified the need for formalised policies regarding the future

development of sporting facilities and support mechanisms for synthetic facilities that support public and community access.

Existing facility maintenance issues have been identified, with key strategies regarding their

improvement put in place (e.g. introduction of warm season grasses to better sustain natural turf playing surfaces).


New Artificial Grass for Sport Guide (March 2011) The Artificial Grass for Sport Guide is a key resource developed by Sports and Recreation Victoria (SRV) for sporting clubs, local councils, and schools set to undertake artificial grass sports surface projects. SRV consulted with the sports industry to develop a resource for future artificial grass projects that should be considered by Council in the development of quality, durable and accessible artificial grass facilities. The information and content of this Guide has been used in the Synthetic Sports Surfaces Feasibility Study to guide and inform the direction of synthetic surface planning, guidelines and management within the City of Monash. Open Space Planning and Design Guide This guide sits in a broader industry context to achieve quality outcomes for open space provision in changing communities. It outlines the opportunities Councils have to maximise the capacity of existing open space, particularly where there may be limited opportunities to acquire additional land, such as Monash. This often requires modifying existing open space to accommodate additional or different uses. Design solutions to increase capacity could include installing synthetic playing surfaces. It could also include enabling multiple or shared use of spaces and ensuring clear policies and agreements are developed to outlined roles and responsibilities for regular and cyclical maintenance, insurance and risk management, scheduling and fees and charges. Athletics Australia Stadia Construction Paper & Brief for Athletic Stadium The Athletics Australia Facilities & Equipment Committee advise on matters of detail when developing new synthetic surfaces for athletics. Facilities are to meet the requirements of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) as defined in the current editions of the IAAF Handbook and the IAAF Track and Field Facilities Manual, and existing Australian Standards. Developments will be suitable to the level of competition planned for the site. Football Federation Victoria Rules of the Game (Schedule of Minimum Requirements for Facilities) The governing body for soccer in Victoria, Football Federation Victoria (FFV), defer to the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) guidelines for facility requirements. FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf is the guiding document for constructing synthetic facilities for soccer requiring FIFA approved surfaces.


Facility Overview

Existing provision Council provides and manages more than 80 ‘active reserves’ used for a wide variety of sport and recreational pursuits. Council currently has two (2) dedicated athletics tracks including one (1) natural turf and one (1) rubberised asphalt, referred to as Council’s synthetic track. Council allocates 16 reserves for soccer, which include dedicated soccer facilities or shared reserves with summer sport (cricket). One of these reserves has been modified from a football oval to soccer field as an overflow ground for the past three years. There is also an additional reserve included in this study as its future direction is yet to be determined. Facility analysis and consultation revealed that a number of club based sports grounds are heavily used, and overused at various times of the year, particularly during winter. It also highlighted a number of sports fields lack adequate sportslighting to cater for winter training activities, contributing to the overuse of some grounds and creating high wear areas at others. Other associated infrastructure including pavilions, car parking, and accessibility to the reserve were noted to assist in determining priorities. Many of Council’s natural turf surfaces have been impacted by prolonged drought conditions and heavy rainfall. The overuse of sports fields due to rapid growth in participation, and lack of alternative venues has lead to the provision of synthetic sports surfaces becoming a viable option. To date synthetic sports surfaces have played a traditional role throughout Monash. Sports with a long history in synthetics including tennis, lawn bowls and hockey are well catered for, as well as synthetic cricket wickets. The following facilities are available: Athletics Davies Reserve, one (1) rubberised asphalt 400m athletics track, licensed to Oakleigh Little Athletics

Club. nb. this surface is not considered an official synthetic surface by IAAF

Hockey Ashwood Reserve, one (1) synthetic grass pitch, leased to Waverley Hockey Club (resurfaced 2011)

Tennis Glen Waverley Tennis Club, six (6) sand-filled artificial grass courts

Glenburn Tennis Club, six (6) sand-filled artificial grass courts

Glenvale Tennis Club, six (6) sand-filled artificial grass courts

Lum Reserve Tennis Club, six (6) sand-filled artificial grass courts

Mayfield Park Tennis Club, two (2) synthetic clay courts (+ 4 en-tous-cas courts)

Wheelers Hill Tennis Club, six (6) sand-filled artificial grass courts

Lawn Bowls Glen Waverley Bowls Club, one (1) eight-rink cushion based sand filled synthetic green (three (3) eight-rink bent grass turf greens)

South Oakleigh Bowls Club, one (1) synthetic green, (one (1) tifdwarf turf green)

Mount Waverley Bowls Club, one (1) dales premium needle punched pro-green synthetic green, (one (1) bent turf green, one (1) tifdwarf turf green)

Synthetic Cricket Wickets (26)

26 synthetic cricket wickets located at: Batesford, Brandon Park, Brentwood, Caloola (1 all-season, 1 synthetic), Capital, Carlson, Columbia Park, Freeway (2), Fregon, Gladeswood, Glen Waverley North, Jingella, Jordan, Lum (1 all-season, 1 synthetic), Mayfield Park, Mulgrave (2), Princess Highway (2), Scotchmans Run, Southern, Tally Ho, Wellington Reserve


In addition to sporting club provision, a number of schools and educational institutes within Monash also provide synthetic sporting surfaces that may be suitable for club training activities. Consultation identified that many sporting clubs have experienced challenges with accessing synthetic sports surfaces within school grounds and cite the lack of sportslighting and access to change facilities as key detractors from their use. Educational sites

Six (6) schools with synthetic cricket wickets managed by Council during summer: Ashwood College, Brentwood Secondary College, Mount View Primary School, South Oakleigh Secondary College, South Oakleigh Primary School, Wheelers Hill Secondary College

Majority of schools have a mix of synthetic cricket wickets, practice cricket nets, tennis courts, and/or mixed with natural turf and asphalt facilities.

Avila College & Holy Family Primary School: synthetic athletics track and sports field Good Shepherd Parish School: synthetic athletics track, tennis courts, basketball courts

Hughesdale Primary School: synthetic wicket, tennis courts and athletics track, asphalt courts Huntingtower School – synthetic field and athletics track

Jells Park Primary School: synthetic field Mazenod College - synthetic field and courts

Monash University – one (1) Hockey Pitch, Tennis Courts.

Monash’s neighbouring municipalities including the Cities of Knox, Kingston, Greater Dandenong, Whitehorse, Boroondara, Glen Eira, Manningham and Stonington all provide a range of synthetic sporting surfaces that are accessible to Monash based clubs. While it is acknowledged that these facilities are located outside the municipality, their use and availability by local clubs may assist in meeting the additional training demands for soccer identified through this study. Refer to Appendix 3 for a detailed list of Monash synthetic sports surfaces and Appendix 4 for wider LGA synthetic soccer and athletics sports facilities. Existing Management A number of management arrangements are currently in place across reserves that provide synthetic sports surfaces. However, in general there are two types of agreements between clubs and user groups and Council: License Agreements: Seasonal sports such as Soccer, Australian Rules Football, Rugby League,

Rugby Union, Cricket Licences are allocated to sporting clubs and user groups over a five year agreement, which includes the pavilion and annual ground allocations. Licenses are seasonal or annual dependent on the sport and facility type. Council is responsible for all maintenance and capital replacement at these reserves. Licence fees average $2432.40 for soccer clubs and $1570.83 for athletics clubs.

Lease Agreements: Tennis, Lawn Bowls, Gymnastics, Basketball, Netball, Calisthenics

Council has a standard lease agreement and associated fees and charges at these facilities. Clubs have 100% responsibility for maintenance aspects of the facility (courts and clubhouses). Capital replacement of synthetic (or other) surfaces is generally a club led approach, with Council considering requests through its capital works program on a case-by-case basis.

Potential Sites Review Members of the project steering group conducted 17 site inspections of the existing soccer and athletics facilities in July 2013. The assessment process involved the inspection of playing surface, associated infrastructure and observational assessment of the site’s overall potential suitability to accommodate future synthetic surface development. In addition documentation of current use, purpose of facility, capacity for future growth provided a recommendation in relation to each reserve. Recommendations were categorised as High Priority, High/Low Priority, Low Priority, Not Suitable. A


summary of the recommendations of each site is below. Refer to Appendix 5 for a location map, Appendix 6 for the assessment tool and Appendix 7 for a detailed summary of the assessments. RESERVE / SPORT PRIORITY COMMENT Argyle Reserve Soccer (winter only)

Low Priority Maintain Natural Turf Site limitations: Overland Flow Path – subject to flooding. Access Poor - residential area. Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required, Sports Lighting Upgrade required

Ashwood Reserve Soccer (winter only)

Not Suitable Maintain Natural Turf Site limitations: Crown Land. Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required, Sports Lighting Installation required

Batesford Reserve Soccer / cricket

Low Priority Maintain Natural Turf Site limitations: Access Poor – steep incline to ground, residential area Note: Recent Significant Upgrades to natural turf including significant water harvesting, sports lighting, pavilion. Shared Facility - Cricket.

Brandon Park Reserve Soccer / cricket

Not Suitable Maintain Natural Turf Site limitations: Retarding Basin – subject to regular flooding. Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required, Sports Lighting Upgrade required. Shared Facility - Cricket.

Caloola Reserve Soccer / cricket

Low Priority Maintain Natural Turf or Potential site for 1 Natural + 1 Synthetic. Site Limitations: Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required, Sports Lighting Upgrade required, Fence required, Car Park Construction required. Shared Facility - Cricket.

Capital Reserve Football / cricket

High/Low Priority

Priority to be based on future use. Potential site for 1 Synthetic for cricket and soccer. Site limitations: Overland Flow Path – subject to flooding. Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required, Sports Lighting Upgrade required, Fence required. Shared Facility - Cricket.

Carlson Reserve Soccer / cricket

Low Priority Maintain Natural Turf or Potential site for 1 Natural + 1 Synthetic Site Limitations: Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required, Sports Lighting Upgrade required, Fence required. Shared Facility - Cricket.

Central Reserve Athletics

Low Priority Maintain Natural Turf No requirement for Synthetic

Davies Reserve Athletics (/soccer training and small sided games)

High Priority Synthetic Surface Installation Existing condition poor, extensive maintenance or replacement required. Site Limitations: Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required (minor upgrade completed 2009/10), Car Park Upgrade required.

Freeway Reserve Soccer / cricket

Not Suitable Maintain Natural Turf Site Limitations: Retarding Basin – subject to regular flooding.

Gardiners Reserve Soccer (winter only)

High/Low Priority

Potential Site for Synthetic Installation Site Limitations: Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required, Sports Lighting Upgrade required, Car Park Upgrade required, Fence required

Glen Waverley North Reserve Soccer / cricket

High/Low Priority

Priority to be based on future use. Potential site for 1 Synthetic (+ 1 small soccer) Site Limitations: Supporting Infrastructure – Sports Lighting Upgrade required, Car Park Extension required. Shared Facility - Cricket.

Jack Edwards Reserve Soccer (winter only)

High Priority Potential Site for Synthetic Installation Site Limitations: Supporting Infrastructure – Sports Lighting Upgrade required, Fence required.

Larpent Reserve Soccer / cricket

Not Suitable Maintain Natural Turf Site limitations: Retarding Basin – subject to regular flooding. Access Poor - Residential Area. Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required, Sports Lighting Installation required, Car Park Extension required. Shared Facility - Cricket.

Lum Reserve Soccer / cricket

Low Priority Maintain Natural Turf Site Limitations: Overland Flow Path – subject to flooding. Supporting Infrastructure – Pavilion Upgrade required (Minor upgrade 2012/13), Sports Lighting Installation required, Fence required. Shared Facility - Cricket.

Scotchmans Run Reserve Baseball / cricket / soccer (training only)

Not Suitable Maintain Natural Turf Site limitations: Retarding Basin – subject to regular flooding. Shared Facility – Baseball, Baseball.

Southern Reserve Soccer / cricket

Low Priority Future Direction to be determined. Maintain Natural Turf. Site Limitations – Supporting Infrastructure (pavilion, sportslighting)


Sport Specific Influences

To determine the potential future demand and impact in synthetic sports surface provision a review of the sports, participants, facilities and planning considerations for soccer and athletics in Monash City Council was undertaken. It considered a number of participation demands including growth (i.e. sport and club, team and player numbers), facility usage (i.e. ground allocations, casual and school bookings, overflow use), educational and private facilities. Synthetic sports surfaces in Monash are limited to leased facilities including tennis, bowls, hockey for competition and training, licensed facilities for cricket synthetic wickets only, and school facilities for school sport, classes and non-tenant clubs. The rubberised asphalt athletics track is available for club, school and community use, but is in poor condition. There are no Council synthetic facilities for sports such as soccer. Athletics Approach to synthetic surfaces The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) provides guidelines which state only synthetic surfaces are used as running tracks for elite competition. These guidelines cover factors such as surface flatness, imperfections, thickness, friction, colour and drainage. There are no set guidelines for use of facilities in lower level or community events, where natural grass tracks are sometimes utilised. Guidelines provided by the IAAF are able to be adapted to the local level facility. Facility provision There are 2 separate athletics facilities provided in Monash located centrally in Glen Waverley and Oakleigh in the south. The Glen Waverley facility, Central Reserve, is a natural turf 400m track, and the Oakleigh facility, Davies Reserve, is a rubberised asphalt 400m track with 8 lane 100m straight. Participations trends Athletics membership has seen a significant growth in both clubs during the 2012-2013. Oakleigh Little Athletics Club increased its membership by 25% and Waverley Little Athletics Club increased by approximately 15%. The senior club Athletics Waverley have a steady membership. It is projected that there will continue to be steady growth in athletics throughout the region at a junior level, and the traditional fluctuations at the senior level. Planning considerations Central Reserve Athletics natural turf track is one of Council’s premier facilities and renowned in athletics circles. In 2011/2012 the track was successfully resurfaced with a warm season grass, responding to high water use, resulting in well managed asset. There is no intention to replace this track with a synthetic surface. Davies Reserve Athletics track is in poor condition and requires significant financial commitment. The rubberised asphalt is not considered a synthetic surface and is no longer an approved IAAF surface. Although there are synthetic tracks in neighbouring councils, growth in the club in the past two seasons place the facility as a high priority for a capital upgrade in the near future. Future provision opportunities Future provision of a synthetic athletics track at Davies Reserve has been identified within the Active Reserves Strategy and through consultation with the tenant club. This project should be considered in future capital budgets as short term priority.


Soccer Approach to synthetic surfaces Football Federation Victoria (FFV) adopts FIFA guidelines on the use of synthetic turf for soccer competition of various standards. FIFA requires all facilities meet either a 1 Star (recreation or municipal use) or 2 Star (professional use). FFV requires 1 Star for recreation and general competition and 2 Star for higher level competitions. FIFA’s ‘Laws of the Game’ state competition matches must be played on a green coloured surface, and that no other lines may be present on the playing surface. FFV allows for extra lines on surfaces used for junior matches in certain situations. Facility provision Currently there are no synthetic soccer pitches in Monash provided by Council. There is 1 synthetic soccer pitch situated at the Mazenod College on Kernot Avenue in Mulgrave, currently used by a community sporting club. A number of other schools have synthetic surfaces that may be available for club use. Whilst Council has informal agreements with a number of schools for cricket allocation during the summer season, there is no relationship with schools for winter sports. There are examples of clubs and schools developing a mutually beneficial relationship, for example Glen Waverley Junior Soccer Club and Highvale Secondary College, whereby the club contributed to a sportslighting installation. Participation trends Current rates of participation for soccer throughout Monash represent total membership of over 1800 children and adults. The continued growth of the sport is expected at a minimum of 5% per year show an increase to 2250 participants within 5 years, or a minimum increase of at least 90 participants per year. Planning considerations FFV provides significant resources to consult and assist in the planning and establishment of synthetic soccer facilities. With overuse and growth in clubs and the sport, there is a demand for synthetic facilities for training and competition. The provision of a regional facility in Knox City Council and another 5 existing synthetic soccer pitches across the eastern region should also be considered in the future establishment of new facilities within Monash. Future provision opportunities Priorities for the development of synthetic soccer facilities in Monash should consider current use, growth and existing conditions. Master planning projects should explore the need, location and management models for any future synthetic soccer training facility. Consideration of shared usage and community access is necessary to maximise the use of the facility. Potential shared sporting model opportunities The key principle of providing synthetic sport surfaces for any sport and in any location is that they must be provided for their intended purpose and suitable to meet training and/or competition requirements. The common misconception is that any sport can be played on any surface. In identifying potential development models for Council to pursue in the future, a number of shared facility models incorporating the use of synthetic sports surfaces were investigated following site visits and sport requirements analysis. Synthetic surface model 1

Surface Type FIFA 1 star accredited surface Primary sports Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby and Touch competition Secondary sports Open for training activities for other sports such as AFL, schools Potential site(s) Jack Edwards Reserve, Gardiners Reserve


Synthetic surface model 2

Surface Type AFL / CA accredited surface or FIFA 1 star accredited surface Primary sports AFL, Cricket (with synthetic pitch included) Secondary sports Open for training activities for other sports such as Rugby, Touch, schools Potential site(s) Glen Waverley North Reserve, Capital Reserve

Synthetic surface model 3

Surface Type IAAF Performance Certificate synthetic surface Primary sports Athletics Secondary sports Running training activities for other sports Potential site(s) Davies Reserve


Consultation

Council undertook a comprehensive consultation and engagement process to better understand the current and future needs, aspirations and preferences for soccer and athletics in regards to the use and future development of synthetic sports surfaces. A range of consultation methods were utilised in the development of the Strategy. Key stakeholders included Council officers, local soccer and athletics clubs, and neighbouring Councils. Within this overall project framework there were four key information collection stages that were undertaken. A summary of consultation findings, stakeholder priorities and current and future need for synthetic surfaces is provided below. Local Clubs Thirteen (13) local sporting clubs were invited to contribute to the Synthetic Sports Surfaces Feasibility Study to identify key principles important for the future provision of synthetic surfaces. In total eight (8) survey responses were received, this included five (5) soccer clubs and all three (3) athletics clubs. A summary of the responses below outlines membership & growth, current and potential use of synthetic surfaces, and the principles important to clubs to assist Council’s decision making for the development of synthetic sports surfaces for soccer and athletics.

Membership & Growth: All clubs that responded expect to grow significantly in the next 5 years. Particular to soccer, this is in response to recent history of expansion of the sport as well

as the professional approach that the clubs have adopted. The range of initiatives from the clubs is extensive and is attracting players to clubs. Strong connections with the community as well as the opportunities especially for girls and women to play at the highest level are attractive to football families.

A minimum of 10% growth in 5 years. Athletics clubs are continuing to increase their junior membership significantly each year.

This is due to facilities (Central Reserve) and well managed clubs (all three clubs). There is pressure on clubs to respond to growth in participation through the adequate

provision of facilities.

Current & Potential Use of Synthetic Surfaces Improvements and upgrades to key sporting infrastructure such as playing fields, clubrooms, sportslighting and spectator amenities were well supported by clubs. The development of good facilities was seen as critical in growing and retaining club membership and that better playing facilities is an important factor in the future development and success of clubs. Clear opportunity exists for the rapid development of a synthetic soccer facility in Monash as there currently is no Council owned facility. Clubs also identified that synthetic surfaces would enable the clubs to better meet the FFV requirements for facilities and reducing chances of games being cancelled. A number of the soccer clubs currently use synthetic surfaces outside of Monash. Knox Regional Centre is used during the off-season, for pre-season, and during the winter season due to limited availability at home facilities, lack of sports lighting, poor ground condition, overuse and increased demand. Benefits noted by clubs:

- the ability to schedule more use compared with natural turf - reduction in maintenance of the playing surface - dedicated ground to use all year round for training and competition


- reduction in hire fees of alternative synthetic surfaces outside of Monash - attract new members - where overuse is an issue because the club is large, it is the answer to remaining at 1

‘home’ facility - good surface to learn new skills, coach, train and play on - full year use

Issues noted by clubs: - regular maintenance such as weeds / debris / rocks / litter leaf on surface - wear and tear - unauthorised use - potential vandalism - location for the facilities, as majority are shared with cricket - shared venues, clubs may feel displacement and loss of income from home venue, as

well as timing issues – who gets to use it when Financial

- the majority of clubs would be willing to consider making a significant contribution towards the development of a synthetic surface. Support may be required from Council to guarantee a loan.

- consideration of funding for surface replacement, the depreciation of the investment in the facility and annual maintenance

- initial investment by a club to contribute should be considered as benefit outweighs the cost implications

- if a club was to contribute, there is a perception of ‘ownership’ and preferential usage - opportunity should be considered so that clubs re-coup monies in some form of

commercial arrangement with council - operate as a not for profit operation to minimise cost to clubs to encourage use

Management - facility would be able to be shared, preferably by a third party management system - any synthetic should be shared to provide community benefits. - one club reported they would work closely with other soccer groups to ensure everyone

benefited, and that as the primary tenant priority would be given to that club

Principles important to clubs for Council to consider in future decision-making Clubs were asked to rank (top 1-3) what they thought the principles should be for the decision making process by Councils in determining priorities for a synthetic sports surface capital works program. Clubs provided varying responses that were aligned with their current provision of playing surfaces. Of the four (4) soccer clubs that responded to this question, each selected a different principle as the highest priority:

Opportunity to increase participation Existing playing surface is fit for purpose Existing facility provision (no. of playing surfaces) Current demand & usage

Other responses that were important to clubs included:

Club financial contribution Existing supporting infrastructure i.e. lights, pavilion Identified future need / vision for club Shared facility – partnerships with schools & cubs

One club declined to answer this question with the reasoning that the decisions will be financially based and the principles will be considered in relation to the funding available.


Internal Council Departments A number of meetings were conducted with internal Council staff and departments, including Youth & Active Communities, Horticulture Services, Engineering, Sustainable Infrastructure and Emergency Management, Capital Works and Finance. Key responses regarding the planning, provision and management of synthetic sports surfaces included the following: Continuing the existing capital improvements (e.g. warm season grass transition, irrigation and

drainage, sportslighting, and pavilion upgrades) at sporting reserves

Implement a master planning approach for whole of reserve outcomes Assessments of potential sites for new synthetic sport surface construction will require detailed

site investigation and planning to determine suitability and identify accurate budget allocation i.e. Council does not begin a project and find issues with soil types that add significantly to approved budgets

Council will need to determine models for management agreements, fees and charges,

maintenance and replacement requirements and responsibilities for synthetic surfaces and associated facilities

Take a regional approach where appropriate, to build relationships with eastern region councils

to maximise the use of existing regional facilities and invest in projects without duplication Local Council Benchmarking To gain a better understanding of synthetic sports surface provision and usage across the eastern region, neighbouring Council’s were contacted regarding their experiences and learning’s with synthetic surfaces. Councils consulted were the Cities of Knox, Kingston, Greater Dandenong, Whitehorse, Boroondara, Glen Eira, Manningham and Stonington. Key Council drivers of synthetic surface development include: Increased participation and demand for training space by sports clubs, particularly around pre-

season training Overuse of natural turf fields and closure of grounds during the winter season

Constrained by limited available land for development to cater for increasing demand for sport

and recreational activities Access to State Government funding programs tailored to synthetic surface development

Opportunities for shared use and maximising participation through the provision of synthetic surfaces were the key benefits identified by other Councils. Some councils with identified limited development opportunities, believe that synthetic surfaces can increase ground capacity in areas of limited space and provide multi-use options for a variety of activities. The most common synthetic sports surfaces being currently provided include hockey, soccer, tennis and cricket wickets with the provision of synthetic training areas rather than full synthetic fields becoming more popular due to their versatility and cost to build. The key constraints and challenges identified by council’s regarding the provision and use of synthetic fields include: Vandalism and damage to property


Poor planning of supporting infrastructure including car parking and clubroom amenities

Potential displacement of community and other user groups

Establishing appropriate management structures in order to maximise the use of the facility.

Unknowns associated with the development and life span of synthetic surfaces and

misconceptions with their funding and revenue raising capabilities. Capacity to fund future replacement of synthetic facilities.

Councils that have experience in the planning, development and management of synthetic fields indicated that it is important to consider the purpose of the intended facility and to balance the need for community access with financial viability. It is also important to set a management and pricing structure before the development commences and to obtain buy-in from all stakeholders to manage expectations and ensure surface renewal and maintenance is achievable. There are a number of different management models that councils are using for the provision of synthetic fields. These include club managed, council managed, private and commercial arrangements, and school managed facilities. The benefits for tenant clubs and the community can vary depending on the preferred management arrangement. However for councils, it is important that the facility provides equitable access and maximises participation and use. The development of a surface replacement fund to ensure renewal is adequately resourced, ensuring the right mix of user groups to encourage multi use, and priority bookings for local clubs and groups are all important for Council to consider when selecting a preferred management model.


Strategic Directions A STRATEGIC PLAN FOR SYNTHETIC SPORT SURFACES This section provides a strategic plan for synthetic sport surfaces. It outlines the key objectives and 5 year principles on how Council may plan for and provide synthetic sports surfaces for 2014/15 to 2018/19. Further recommendations are made on how Council may manage new and existing synthetic sports surfaces into the future. In the establishment of a five year strategic plan for synthetic sport surfaces, the following objectives will provide the basis for future decision making:

1. Opportunity to increase participation

Support the planning for new or redeveloped facilities where both the needs of sport and the Monash community can be met.

2. Existing facility provision Increase the capacity of existing synthetic sports surfaces and ensure the ongoing provision and maintenance of high quality synthetic sports surfaces is achieved.

3. Existing playing surfaces are fit for purpose

Prioritise the renewal of existing facilities based on need, demand, financial sustainability and the ability to increase participation in a range of sport and physical activities.

In achieving these objectives and maximising the value of existing Monash facilities, the five year strategic directions plan for synthetic sport surfaces is based around four key areas: 1. Planning Council currently utilises a combination of recreation reserve and sports ground planning and strategic documents to guide the future direction of reserve infrastructure development, usage and management. The consideration of synthetic surfaces facilities through master planning projects is highly desirable and would embed the assessment and appropriateness of synthetic sports surfaces into site specific planning into the future. Council does not currently have a formalised capital contributions policy in place for the provision and funding of synthetic sports surface infrastructure. This can influence decision making regarding development, provide inconsistent management arrangements and uncertainty amongst clubs and user groups as to expectations of development and redevelopment costs. In developing future policy however, Council may wish to consider formalising a policy around the phases of initiation, resourcing, delivery and management and identifying who is responsible for the human and financial resourcing of individual site specific synthetic sport surface projects. This will

1. Planning

2. Building on existing facilities

3. New provision

4. Management


ensure future financial commitments of Council are budgeted and that community expectations are documented and managed. The following recommendations are made for future consideration in relation to synthetic sport surface planning:

1. Council should consider as part of the annual budget process a financial commitment to the provision and enhancement of synthetic sports surfaces over the next five years.

2. Review the existing Active Reserves Capital Works Policy specifically for synthetic training and

competitions facilities, with Council contributions weighted towards the provision of community accessibility and benefit as a priority.

3. Ensure that consideration of synthetic training and/or competition facilities are a mandatory

component of future sport and recreation reserve planning. 2. Building on existing facilities Synthetic sports surfaces play a role across a number of sporting facilities throughout Monash including tennis, lawn bowls, hockey and cricket, with the majority used for both club level training and competition activities. Council and tenant clubs have continued to invest in the installation and / or replacement of these facilities through its facility development program. Council’s main range of synthetic sports surfaces facilities includes the provision of a large number of cricket practice nets and centre wickets, hockey pitch, tennis courts and bowling greens. The cricket nets and centre wickets will continue to be developed as part of the capital works program to ensure a planned and coordinated approach. A case by case basis consideration will be required to support tennis, lawn bowls and hockey for the long term management of their surfaces. A number of reserves have been identified as a high priority to provide opportunities for the future introduction of synthetic sports surfaces for soccer and athletics in Monash. However, it is important that Council continues to upgrade the irrigation, drainage and surfaces of its natural turf grounds to sustain the expected growth across all sports. Council’s Active Reserves Strategy also revealed a number of key reserves and sports fields require improved sports lighting and pavilions. The continued upgrade of these facilities to support winter use will allow access to a broader range of training opportunities across the municipality. The following recommendation is made to ensure Council continues to improve existing facilities:

4. Council should continue to support the improvement of sports lighting, pavilions and grounds, both natural turf and synthetic, through the annual budget process. Priority should be given to improving playing surfaces with a ‘whole of reserve’ approach to upgrades.

3. New provision State and Federal Government policy has continued to shift towards supporting multi-sport facilities, with less focus on localised single sport provision. Relevant funding programs are also tailored to provide greater participation and physical activity outcomes. Research and current practice show that both soccer and athletics are highly suited to synthetic sports surfaces. Whilst Council currently does not provide opportunities for these sports, a small number of


schools within Monash and neighbouring municipalities provide a range of synthetic sporting surfaces that are accessible to Monash residents. While it is acknowledged that these facilities are located outside the municipality, their use and availability assist in meeting the additional training demands identified through this study, particularly for soccer. Council maintains and allocates in excess of 80 reserves that seek to meet the needs of the wide range of sporting clubs that use them regularly. Site assessments and consultation identified that a number of soccer sports grounds are impacted by overuse particularly during winter seasons. As well as the poor condition of the athletics track at Davies Reserve. At facilities that are currently exclusively licensed to sporting clubs, the demand for new facilities and existing surface renewals are likely to be driven through sporting club needs. The contribution by Council should reflect this and occur in line with the proposed revision of the Active Reserves Capital Works Policy. Should new or redeveloped synthetic surfaces be provided in the future to meet demand, the following general principles should be used to guide outcomes: Give priority to facilities that cannot cope with the current usage Ensure synthetic surface suitable to identified site, surrounds and environment Ensure synthetic surfaces integrate with existing site usage and support amenities Pricing of synthetic surface is based on a user pays models Pricing of multi-sport synthetic surfaces is based on a community access model Revenue generated through synthetic surface use is reinvested back into facility renewal

Ground quality and reserve limitations (such as car parking, existing infrastructure) will significantly impact the planning and development of synthetic surfaces across Monash. It is recommended that Council only construct synthetic sport surfaces at reserves that have been identified to be suitable through the site audit. Detailed engineered designs, geotechnical investigations, project management, supervision and asset management plans for all new projects will be essential elements of future project development. The following recommendations are made in relation to the provision of new synthetic surfaces:

5. Council should commence the installation of synthetic surfaces at high priority sites as outlined in Appendix 6.

6. Sporting club contributions to the installation of synthetic surfaces should be considered as part of the review of Council’s Active Reserves Capital Works Policy.

7. Council only consider constructing synthetic surfaces at reserves that have been deemed

suitable.

4. Management The management of synthetic surfaces should be integrated within Council’s asset management planning and capital works programs to plan when funding will be required. Consideration should be given to use of partnership funding models, sinking funds and detailed business planning and service models to guide management of all synthetic surfaces to maximise usage and plan for their upgrade.


The review of existing Council fees and charges should occur in line with the review of Active Reserves Capital Works Policy and take into consideration life cycle, maintenance and replacement costs. On Council land, it is preferred that Council control maintenance of the asset and reflect the costs in any fees and charges. The following recommendations are made to ensure suitable management arrangements:

8. Ensure every existing new synthetic sport surface has a documented agreement that outlines key requirements prior to commencing the construction.

9. Review Council’s fees and charges policy (in line with the review of Active Reserves Capital Works Policy) taking into consideration life cycle and maintenance costs.

10. Council establish a partnership funding model, management agreement and fees and charges with key stakeholders during the design phase of every new synthetic surface.

11. Council retain control of maintenance and include additional fees into club agreements to

reflect ongoing costs.


Appendix 1: Consultation list Project Steering Group Council officers

Julie Salomon, Director Community Development & Services Ossie Martinz, Director Infrastructure James Collins, Manager Youth & Active Communities Carly Goodrich, Strategic Leisure Planner James Paterson, Manager Engineering Phillip Plumb, Manager Horticulture Services Lucas Skelton, Coordinator Sport and Park Maintenance Services

Local soccer clubs Ashburton Women’s SC Brandon Park FC Dandenong Casuals Eastern Lions SC Glen Waverley Junior SC Monash City FC Oakleigh Cannons FC Victorian Sikh Association Waverley Victory FC Waverley Wanderers FC

Local athletics clubs Oakleigh Little Athletics, Waverley Little Athletics, Athletics Waverley

Peak sporting bodies Football Federation Victoria, Athletics Victoria, Little Athletics Victoria

Eastern Region LGA’s Cities of Knox, Kingston, Greater Dandenong, Whitehorse, Boroondara, Glen Eira, Manningham and Stonington


Appendix 2: Club Survey TELL US ABOUT YOUR USAGE Sport: Soccer Athletics

Club Name:

Contact Person: Phone number:

Email Address:

Location of Fields: Name of Reserve Day & Time of use Total number of hours Level of competition /

Age group Field 1

Field 2

Field 3

Field 4

Field 5

Membership - please outline your membership numbers for senior and junior participation SENIORS Female Male Female Male Female Male

Players: Officials Volunteers

Social: Other, please list:

JUNIORS

Female Male

Female Male

Female Male

Players:

Officials

Volunteers

Social:

Other, please list: What is your expected growth in the next 5-10 years? What is your rationale behind your expected growth?


THINKING ABOUT SYNTHETIC SPORTS SURFACES Do you currently have access to a synthetic sports surface? Yes No If yes, where, how, why… What do you see are the main benefits of a synthetic surface? What do you see are the main challenges facing clubs regarding synthetic sports surface? Do opportunities exist for synthetic sports surfaces to be shared amongst clubs, schools and the wider community? Please share your thoughts on access and usage…. Council may consider contributions from clubs for the development and replacement of synthetic sports surfaces. Please share your thoughts on club contributions…. The annual maintenance costs of a synthetic sports surface can be higher than natural turf. The annual licence fees will be considered through this study. Please share your thoughts….


THINKING ABOUT GUIDELINES FOR SYNTHETIC SPORTS SURFACES IN MONASH

Please prioritise (top 3) the principles you think should form the basis for future decision making?

RANK PRIORITY RANK PRIORITY

Existing playing surface is fit for purpose

Existing facility provision (no. of playing surfaces)

Multiple sports facility

Shared facility - partnerships with schools & clubs

Club financial contribution

Identified future need / vision for club

Opportunity to increase participation

Current demand & usage

Existing supporting infrastructure i.e. lights, pavilion

Community access

Other, please list and indicate priority (High, Medium, Low):

Please expand your reasoning on the principles and priorities for decision making:

Please provide any further comments:


Appendix 3: Facility Inventory Monash City Council Reserve Name Facility Sport Address Suburb Melway

Ref Number of Playing Surfaces

Type of surface Ownership

Davies Reserve Athletics Track Athletics 410A Huntingdale Road

OAKLEIGH SOUTH 78J1 1 Rubberised asphalt track Council Licensed Club

Ashwood Reserve Hockey Field Hockey 104 High Street Road

ASHWOOD 60J11 1 Synthetic grass pitch Council Leased Club

Glen Waverley Tennis Club

Glen Waverley Tennis Club

Tennis 3 Aquatic Place GLEN WAVERLEY VIC 3150

Glen Waverley 71A4 6 Sand-filled artificial grass courts

Council Leased Club

Glenburn Tennis Club

Glenburn Tennis Club Tennis 5 Mulgrave Street GLEN WAVERLEY 62B11 6 Sand-filled artificial grass courts

Council Leased Club

Glenvale Tennis Club

Glenvale Tennis Club Tennis Cnr Shepherd Rd & Madigan Drive

Glen Waverley 71K5

6 Sand-filled artificial grass courts

Council Leased Club

Lum Reserve Lum Reserve Tennis Club

Tennis 231-259 Lum Road WHEELERS HILL 71F11 6 Sand-filled artificial grass courts

Council Leased Club

Mayfield Park Mayfield Park Tennis Club

Tennis 34-38 Mayfield Drive

MOUNT WAVERLEY

70B4

2 Synthetic clay courts Council Leased Club

Wheelers Hill Tennis Club

Wheelers Hill Tennis Club

Tennis Sunnybrook Drive Wheelers Hill 71 H7 6 Sand-filled artificial grass courts

Council Leased Club

Central Reserve Glen Waverley Bowls Club

Lawn Bowls 690 Waverley Road

GLEN WAVERLEY 71B5 1 Eight-rink cushion based sand filled synthetic green

Council Leased Club

WA Scammell Reserve

South Oakleigh Bowls Club

Lawn Bowls 1216 North Road OAKLEIGH SOUTH 69G11

1 Eight-rink cushion based sand filled synthetic green

Council Leased Club

Mount Waverley Bowls Club

Mount Waverley Bowls Club

Lawn Bowls 6 Alvie Road MOUNT WAVERLEY

61D11 1 dales premium needle punched pro-green synthetic green

Council Leased Club

Synthetic Cricket Wickets (26)

26 synthetic cricket wickets located at: Batesford, Brandon Park, Brentwood, Caloola (1 all-season, 1 synthetic), Capital, Carlson, Columbia Park, Freeway (2), Fregon, Gladeswood, Glen Waverley North, Jingella, Jordan, Lum (1 all-season, 1 synthetic), Mayfield Park, Mulgrave (2), Princess Highway (2), Scotchmans Run, Southern, Tally Ho, Wellington Reserve.


Appendix 4: Facility Inventory Neighbouring Local Government Authorities

LGA Reserve Name

Facility Name

Sport Address Suburb Post code

Melway Ref

Number & Type Ownership Management Model

Challenges Community Access

Glen Eira

Packer Park Bocce, Bowls & BBQ

Synthetic Lawn Bowls & other misc. sports

Leila Rd Carnegie 3163 68 J8 1 synthetic Lawn Bowls rink/Misc. sports

Council Managed and maintained by Council

Vandalism

Open for the general public to use.

Glen Eira

Caulfield Park

Caulfield Park Sports Club

Small sided soccer

Balaclava Rd

Caulfield 3162 59 D12 1 Small sided soccer pitch

Council

Lease – managed and maintained by club

Vandalism

Club runs day to day operations.

Whitehorse Hagenauer Reserve

Box Hill Athletics Club

Athletics Elgar Road

Box Hill North

3129 47 C7 1 Athletic Track Council Lease – managed and maintained by club

-

Whitehorse East Burwood Reserve

Burwood Athletics Club

Athletics Burwood Highway

Burwood East

3151 62 C7 1 Athletic Track Council Lease – managed and maintained by club

- -

Knox

Knox Regional Sports Park

Knox Regional Football Centre

Soccer 291 George Street

Wantirna South

3152 72 C2 1 x Synthetic Soccer Pitch, 9 x Small Sided Soccer Pitches

Council Lease – Managed and maintained by Football Federation Victoria

Increasing casual usage especially during weekdays

Community access through FFV

Knox Knox Park Knox Athletics Track

Athletics Bunjil Way

Knoxfield 3180 73 D7 1 x Tartan track Council Board of Management

increase utilisation of facilities

Access available all year round. School and group bookings made through Board of Management

Greater Dandenong

Mills Reserve

Mills Reserve

Hockey

Soccer

Cleeland Road Dandenong

Dandenong

3175 1 Synthetic pitch / sand based

Council Council seasonal hire

Mixed users Hockey training and matches and soccer training


Kingston Kingston Heath Reserve

Kingston Heath Regional Soccer Centre

Soccer Centre Dandenong Road

Cheltenham

3192 2 synthetic soccer pitches

Council Council managed – ground bookings. Licence for lead tenant for ground usage. Maintained by Council.

Satisfying peak demand. Management model constrained by having to accommodate lead tenant.

Hire to soccer clubs, school and community.

Kingston Dolamore Reserve

Mentone Athletics Centre

Athletics Second St

Parkdale 3195 Polyurethane Athletics track

Council Licence to COM (little aths, senior aths and veterans clubs). Simple maintenance by club.

Currently re-negotiating tenancy agreement. Lack of club’s internal and financial capacity to manage appropriate maintenance and renewal of surface as required.

Subject to current discussions.

Kingston GR Bricker Reserve

Bricker Reserve Athletics track

Athletics Rowans Rd

Moorabbin

3189 Rubberised bitumen Athletics track

Council Seasonal Allocation to Moorabbin Little Athletics Centre. Simple maintenance by club.

Lack of club’s internal and financial capacity to manage appropriate maintenance and renewal of surface as required.

Casual hire to schools.

Manningham

Anderson Park

Anderson Park Synthetic Soccer Pitch (Small Sided Games)

Soccer Andreson Creek Road

East Doncaster

3109 33 D7 1 Small Sided Games Soccer Pitch (1/2 pitch)

Council Allocation – managed and maintained by Council

Vandalism of perimeter fencing

Hire to school and community

Manningham Rieschiecks Reserve

Rieschiecks Reserve Athletics Track

Athletics George Street

Doncaster

3108 33 J11 1 synthetic athletics track

Council Allocation – managed and maintained by Council

Overuse

Floodling

Open 24 hrs/7 days

Closed to public when hired to school and community.


Appendix 5: Potential Sites Assessment Tool RESERVE COMMENT

Reserve function Active Retarding Basin Overland Flow Path

Sport

No. of Fields

PLAYING SURFACE

Type

Condition

Maintenance

Irrigation

Drainage

Other Comments:

SUPPORTING INFRASTRUCTURE

Pavilion

Sports Lighting

Car park

Fence

Other: Coaches Boxes

Other: Cricket Nets

Other: Playground

Future Upgrades

Accessibility

Other Comments:

USER & CAPACITY

User Groups

Competition / Training

Hours of use

Demand

Capacity

RECOMMENDATION


Appendix 6: Map - Potential Sites Assessment Locations


Appendix 7: Potential Sites Assessment Summary

Reserve Reserve Function

Sport Number of playing surfaces

Playing surface Associated Infrastructure & Accessibility User Group & Agreement Recommendation

Argyle Reserve

Active Overland Flow Path

Soccer (winter only)

1 full size soccer pitch Type: Natural turf kikuyu Condition: Winter Fair Maintenance: Scheduled works only Irrigation: Ineffective - upgrade required Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Good Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Poor – Residential Area

Winter License: Monash City FC Summer License: N/a Capacity: Underutilised

Low Priority: Maintain Natural Turf

Ashwood Reserve

Active

Soccer (winter only)

2 full size soccer pitches Type: Natural turf poa/rye Condition: Winter Good, Summer Fair Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: Ineffective - Upgrade required Drainage: Extensive Wet - Upgrade required

Pavilion: Poor - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Poor - Installation req’d Car park: Good Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Poor – Crown land

Winter License: Victorian Sikh Association Capacity: Underutilised

Not Suitable: Maintain Natural Turf

Batesford Reserve

Active

Soccer Cricket

1 full size soccer pitch 1 cricket oval, synthetic

Type: Natural turf mixed kikuyu Condition: Winter Good, Summer Good Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: Effective Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Good Sports lighting: Excellent Car park: Good Fence: N/a Accessibility: Poor – Residential Area

Winter License: Ashburton Women’s Soccer Club Summer License: St Paul’s Cricket Club Capacity: Maintain existing


Brandon Park Reserve

Retarding basin Active

Soccer Cricket

1 full size soccer pitch 1 junior size soccer pitch 1 cricket oval, synthetic

Type: Natural turf warm season install 13/14 Condition: N/a Maintenance: N/a Irrigation: Effective Drainage: Effective

Pavilion: Poor, Upgrade required Sports lighting: Fair, Upgrade required Car park: Good Fence: N/a Accessibility: Good

Winter License: Waverley Victory FC Summer License: Mulgrave Wheelers Hill Cricket Club Capacity: Maintain existing


Caloola Reserve (West)

Active Soccer Cricket


Type: Natural turf santa ana Condition: Winter Good, Summer Good Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: Ineffective – Upgrade required Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Poor - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Good - Upgrade required Car park: Installation required Fence: Fair – Upgrade required Accessibility: Good

Winter License: Monash City FC Summer License: East Oakleigh Cricket Club, Overflow Capacity: Underutilised

Low Priority: Maintain Natural Turf or Potential Synthetic

Caloola Reserve (East)



Type: Natural turf kikuyu Condition: Winter Good, Summer Good Maintenance: Scheduled Works only Irrigation: Ineffective – upgrade required Drainage: Moderate Wet – upgrade required

Pavilion: Poor - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Good - Upgrade required Car park: Installation required Fence: Fair – Upgrade required Accessibility: Good

Winter License: Monash City FC Summer License: East Oakleigh Cricket Club, Overflow Capacity: Underutilised

Low Priority: Maintain Natural Turf or Potential Synthetic

Capital Reserve


Football Cricket

1 full size football oval 1 cricket oval, synthetic

Type: Natural turf santa ana Condition: Winter Fair, Summer Good Maintenance: Not Maintainable Irrigation: Effective Drainage: Unplayable – upgrade required

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Good Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Poor – Residential Area

Winter Ground Allocation: Overflow Summer License: Glen Waverley Hawks Cricket Club Capacity: Underutilised

High/Low Priority: Maintain Natural Turf or Potential Synthetic

Carlson Reserve (West)



Type: Natural turf kikuyu Condition: Winter Fair, Summer Good Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: Effective Minor Drainage: Extensive Wet – upgrade required

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Good Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Good

Winter License: Waverley Wanderers FC Summer License: Monash Cricket Club Capacity: Maintain existing



Carlson Reserve (East)


1 junior size soccer pitch 1 cricket oval, synthetic

Type: Natural turf kikuyu Condition: Winter Poor, Summer Good Maintenance: Not Maintainable Irrigation: Effective Minor Drainage: Unplayable – upgrade required

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Good Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Good

Winter License: Waverley Wanderers FC Summer License: Monash Cricket Club Capacity: Maintain existing


Central Reserve

Active Athletics 1 400m track & field event facility

Type: Natural turf santa ana Condition: Winter Good, Summer Good Maintenance: Scheduled works only Irrigation: Effective Minor Drainage: Effective

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Installation required Car park: Good Fence: N/a Accessibility: Good

Summer License (Full year pavilion): Athletics Waverley, Waverley Little Athletics Club Capacity: Maintain existing


Davies Reserve

Active Athletics Soccer (Juniors only)

1 400m track & field event facility

Type: Rubberised Asphalt Condition: Poor requires capital replacement Maintenance: Scheduled Works only Irrigation: No Irrigation Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Good Car park: Fair – Extension required Fence: Good Accessibility: Poor – Residential Area

Summer License (Full year pavilion): Oakleigh Little Athletics Club Winter Allocation: Oakleigh Cannons FC (Training & juniors only) Capacity: Underutilised

High Priority: Synthetic Surface Installation

Freeway Reserve

Retarding basin Active

Soccer Cricket

3 full size soccer pitches 2 cricket ovals, synthetic

Type: Natural turf mixed blend Condition: Winter Good, Summer Good Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: Ineffective Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Good Fence: N/a Accessibility: Poor – Residential Area

Winter License: Brandon Park FC Summer License: Notting Hill Brandon Park Cricket Club Capacity: Underutilised


Gardiners Reserve (Centre)

Active Soccer (winter only)

2 full size soccer pitch 1 junior size soccer pitch

Type: Natural turf mixed/kikuyu Condition: Reconstruction required Maintenance: Extensive Works Irrigation: Effective Drainage: Extensive Wet – upgrade required

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Fair - Upgrade required Fence: Fair - Upgrade required Accessibility: Fair – Residential Area

Winter License: Eastern Lions Soccer Club (Full year pavilion) Summer License: N/a Capacity: Maintain existing


Gardiners Reserve (South)



Type: Natural turf santa ana/rye Condition: Good Maintenance: Scheduled Works only Irrigation: Effective Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Fair - Upgrade required Fence: Fair - Upgrade required Accessibility: Fair – Residential Area

Winter License: Eastern Lions Soccer Club (Full year pavilion) Summer License: N/a Capacity: Maintain existing


Glen Waverley North Reserve



Type: Natural turf mixed/santa ana Condition: Winter Fair, Summer Good Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: Effective Minor Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Good Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Fair - Extension required Fence: Fair – Residential Area

Winter License: Glen Waverley Junior Soccer Club Summer License: Glen Waverley Cougars Cricket Club Capacity: Maintain existing


Jack Edwards Reserve (East)


1 full size soccer pitch 1 junior size soccer pitch 2 small sided game pitches

Type: Natural turf couch/poa Condition: Winter Poor, Summer Good Maintenance: Not Maintainable Irrigation: Effective Minor Drainage: Unplayable – upgrade required

Pavilion: Redevelopment commenced Sports lighting: Fair - Upgrade required Car park: Good Fence: Upgrade required Accessibility: Fair – Residential Area

Winter License: Oakleigh Cannons FC Summer License: N/a Capacity: Overused

High Priority: Potential Synthetic Installation

Jack Edwards Reserve (West)


1 full size soccer pitch

Type: Natural turf santa ana/rye Condition: Winter Fair, Summer Good Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: Effective Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Good Sports lighting: Good Car park: Good Fence: Good Accessibility: Fair – Residential Area

Winter License (Full year pavilion): Oakleigh Cannons FC Summer License: N/a Capacity: Maintain existing


Larpent Reserve

Retarding basin

Soccer


Type: Natural turf poa/rye Condition: Winter Poor, Summer Good

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Installation required

Winter License: Glen Waverley Junior Soccer Club

Not Suitable: Maintain Natural


RATING KEY

Active Cricket 2 cricket junior ovals, no wickets

Maintenance: Not Maintainable Irrigation: Ineffective – retarding basin Drainage: Unplayable - upgrade required

Car park: Fair – Extension required Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Fair – Residential Area

Summer License Glen Waverley Junior Cricket League Capacity: Maintain existing

Turf

Lum Reserve (West)

Active Overland Flow

Soccer Cricket


Type: Natural turf mixed Condition: Winter Fair, Summer Good Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: No Irrigation Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Good - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Installation required Car park: Good Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Fair – Residential Area

Winter License: Dandenong Casuals FC Summer License: Waverley Cricket Club Capacity: Maintain existing


Lum Reserve (East)


Soccer Cricket


Type: Natural turf mixed Condition: Winter Fair, Summer Good Maintenance: Scheduled Works Only Irrigation: No irrigation Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: No pavilion Sports lighting: Installation required Car park: Good Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Poor – Residential Area

Ground Allocation: Glen Waverley Junior Soccer Club Summer License: Waverley Cricket Club Capacity: Underutilised


Scotchmans Run Reserve

Retarding Basin Active

Baseball Soccer training Cricket

1 baseball diamond 1 soccer training field 1 cricket oval, synthetic

Type: Natural turf kikuyu Condition: Winter Poor, Summer Good Maintenance: Not Maintainable Irrigation: Effective Minor (drip system) Drainage: No Irrigation

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Installation required Car park: Fair – Extension required Fence: Installation required Accessibility: Fair – Residential Area

Summer Ground Allocation: Training or Overflow only Winter: Oakleigh Baseball Club Capacity: Maintain existing


Southern Reserve

Active Soccer / football Cricket

1 full size soccer pitch / football oval 1 cricket oval, synthetic

Type: Natural turf kikuyu Condition: Winter Fair, Summer Good Maintenance: Excessive Works Irrigation: Ineffective – upgrade required Drainage: Moderate Wet

Pavilion: Fair - Upgrade required Sports lighting: Good - Upgrade required Car park: Good Fence: Good Accessibility: Fair – Residential Area

Ground Allocation: Overflow Summer License: St Paul’s Cricket Club, Colombo Cricket Club Capacity: Underutilised/overflow


IRRIGATION DRAINAGE NO IRRIGATION No irrigation UNPLAYABLE Unplayable at times due to extensive wet areas >50% of surface waterlogged INEFFECTIVE Irrigation does not meet Council spec of CU >85%, SC <1.2 (system is inefficient) EXTENSIVE WET Extensive wet areas but usually played on 25-50% surface waterlogged EFFECTIVE MINOR Meets Council spec of CU >85%, SC <1.2 MODERATE WET More concentrated wet areas e.g. Goal squares, high usage areas EFFECTIVE Meets Council spec of CU >85%, SC <1.3 and is linked to Central Control EFFECTIVE Drainage effective GROUND CONDITION CAPACITY MAINTENANCE POOR Does not meet user needs / major work required UNDERUTILISED can increase capacity NOT MAINTAINABLE Unmaintainable over winter GOOD Condition suitable / minor work required MAINTAIN maintain existing EXCESSIVE WORKS Requires excessive inputs of labour and maintenance EXCELLENT Condition suitable / recently upgraded / no work required OVERUSED alternative surface or additional ground required SCHEDULED WORKS ONLY Scheduled works only, generally required


Appendix 8: Proposed Capital Works Program Location Users Project Estimated

Cost Timing

Southern Catchment (Jack Edwards Reserve)

Lead Tenant: Oakleigh Cannons Football Club Other Users: Monash City JFC Waverley Wanderers FC

Synthetic Soccer Facility: 1 full sized & 1 junior sized pitch Sportslighting, fencing upgrade required


North Eastern Catchment* (Potential sites include Glen Waverley North Reserve, Capital Reserve, Southern Reserve or school site)

Lead Tenant: Glen Waverley Junior Soccer Club Other Users: Waverley Victory FC Brandon Park FC Tenant Cricket clubs

Synthetic Soccer Facility: 1 full sized & potentially 1 junior sized pitch Sportslighting, fencing, car park upgrade required

$1.1M Investigation & consultation 2013/2014 Design 2014/2015 Construction 2016 -2018

Davies Reserve Oakleigh Little Athletics Synthetic Athletics Track: 400m track and field arena Consider pavilion and car park upgrade

$600K Design 2014/2015 Construction 2018/2019

Western Catchment (Gardiners Reserve)

Lead Tenant: Eastern Lions Soccer Club Other Users: Ashburton Women’s SC

Synthetic Soccer Facility: 1 full sized pitch Sportslighting, fencing, car park upgrade required Consider pavilion upgrade


* The north eastern catchment site will need to cater for both cricket and soccer. Furthermore, Capital Reserve and Southern Reserve are pending decisions on their future use as they currently do not have permanent winter tenants. Further investigation and consultation with tenant clubs and the community will occur before any design and construction is considered.

Please note that it is estimated that the design will cost $50,000.

synthetic sports surfaces feasibility study€¦ · options for the development of synthetic sports...

Documents