Genders Park update April 2024

All submissions have been compiled and reviewed following conclusion of the consultation period for the draft Genders Park SOS Masterplan concept. As part of the review process, further work was undertaken to develop a Town wide approach to groundwater management and rationalisation in response to future reductions in groundwater use to be imposed by the regulator in 2028. This is an ongoing body of work which is required to guide future management of this resource to align with the community’s expectations for open space provision and presentation. As a result of the review process, some minor changes have been made to the concept plan. An overview of the changes is provided below:

A reduction in the overall size/area of proposed ‘Eco zone’ will provide a more balanced approach to the competing needs of the community, whilst still meeting the overall objective of reducing groundwater use. Transformation of the grassed verge area between the footpath and roadway along McCabe Street to Eco zone planting will remain. The existing established Eco zone adjacent to the eastern boundary of the park will remain ‘as is’ and the proposed Eco zone to the south has been reduced.
Relocation of the BBQ, picnic table and shelter from the current location as indicated to take advantage of improved vistas and improved passive surveillance for park users. The location on the drawing is indicative and will be determined more accurately when replacement is required in future years.
Replacement and relocation of several bench seats, in accordance with disability access standards, to place these on concrete pads connected to the path and with arm rests. The bench seat in the central grass area will be relocated to take advantage of afternoon shade provided by adjacent trees and to open up the area allowing better access for informal kicking, hitting and throwing games.
The Town is planning to undertake procurement during May 2024 to appoint a contractor to install a new reticulation system based on the SOS Master Plan. Once a contractor has been appointed, the reticulation installation project is expected to commence over the winter months and be completed before the next summer watering season.