Darebin Council unveils master plan for former Ruthven Primary School site
A masterplan has been unveiled for the former Ruthven Primary School that will turn the space into a bushland sanctuary for both play and quiet retreat. Find out what’s included and how to have your say on the designs.
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A masterplan has been unveiled for Reservoir’s newest park that will turn the space into a bushland sanctuary for both play and quiet retreat.
Darebin Council has released the draft masterplan Ruthven masterplan and invited public feedback on the proposal for the former Ruthven Primary School site.
It follows a six-year campaign to keep the 3ha site in public hands after a council action plan revealed it could be home to a children’s hub.
The council purchased the Reservoir West land in 2016 using funds from its Open Space Reserve — four years after the school was closed.
In 2018 the council agreed to use the entire site for open space.
The masterplan includes wild bushland areas, a sheltered barbecue with seating, a public toilet, new play spaces, an open lawn area and recognition of Darebin’s Aboriginal history and Reservoir’s migrant past.
All indigenous trees and shrubs will also be retained and more are expected to be planted.
A long-term vision for the site could include a small section of ephemeral wetland.
Ruthven Community Reference Group member Serena O’Meley said it would be a natural meeting place where people could feel welcome and relaxed.
“The park will be a botanic showcase that will encourage people to love and appreciate the wide variety of plants and wildlife which are indigenous to the area,” she said.
Darebin Mayor Susan Rennie said it was a really exciting project for everyone in the municipality.
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“The Ruthven masterplan will simultaneously create a haven for wildlife by becoming a stepping stone for local habitat along the Edgars Creek corridor, while also adding high quality open space for our community to enjoy with friends and family,” she said.
The masterplan took two years to develop and included site analysis, design and investigative work.
The park is bordered by Hurley and Tracey streets, Glasgow Ave and Wilson Blvd.
Community consultation closes on November 16.