Plan to revitalise Moonee Ponds Creek with green vision
It’s a polluted, concrete eyesore that locals hate. But this amazing plan could transform it into a green oasis — if it gets the go-ahead from council. SEE THE PLAN
VIC News
Don't miss out on the headlines from VIC News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Inner city residents want an “unappealing” and polluted creek restored to a natural state and the surrounding area opened up for recreational use.
That’s the message given to the City of Melbourne on its plan to revitalise Moonee Ponds Creek.
Under the council’s vision, the creek’s concrete channel would be reconstructed with a chain of ponds and landscaped terraces.
City councillors will consider endorsing the plan at a meeting on Tuesday after public consultation resulted in hundreds of responses.
Open space, water management and movement were the top priorities identified, according to a report on the community engagement results.
“Melbourne and its surrounds have become ugly with overdevelopment and overpopulated,” said one response.
“We have lost our spaciousness and it is important to physical, mental and spiritual health to get it back.”
The report said that open space was highly supported for its recreational benefits.
“Space is valued for activities such as jogging, dog walking, engaging with nature and generally enjoying the creek and its surrounding environment,” it said.
Council’s environment portfolio chair Cr Cathy Oke said the plan was an exciting opportunity to upgrade a forgotten waterway.
“With the right investment and co-ordination, we can increase biodiversity, flood mitigation, new bike paths and more space for recreation,” she said.
MORE: MYKI TRIPS LEAKED IN MASSIVE PRIVACY BREACH
THE DELICIOUS INDIAN TWIST ON PIZZA
Deputy Lord Mayor and finance and governance portfolio Arron Wood said that five key urban renewal areas backed on to the creek, including Arden where 15,000 people were expected to live by 2051.
“As the population increases, we want these new residents to enjoy open spaces and recreational areas along this important green spine,” he said.
The council doesn’t manage the creek corridor, so will need to work with the state government, land owners and other parties on the plan.