C I T Y S E R V I C E S , C O M M U N I T Y A N D C U L T U R A L D E V E L O P M E N T C O M M I T T E E R E P O R T C O V E R S H E E T

Agenda Item 5.1

3 August 2004

DRAFT CARLTON GARDENS MASTER PLAN

Division Assets & Services

Presenter Vince Haining, Group Manager Parks & Recreation

Purpose

To seek approval to release for public comment the Draft Carlton Gardens Master Plan.

Time Frame

Approval to release the draft Master Plan for public comment is required at the August 2004 meeting of the Committee prior to Council entering the caretaker period before the Council elections. If not approved at this time, then the Plan’s release would be delayed until after the elections, possibly until early 2005.

Finance

There are no direct financial implications to Council in the recommendation of this report. The 2004/05 budget has provided funding of $20,000 for the development of the Carlton Gardens Master Plan.

Legal

The report seeks approval for advertising of the Draft Master Plan only and there are no direct legal implications arising from the recommendation.

Sustainability

Connected and Accessible City

The recent inscription of the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens site on the World Heritage List significantly contributes to highlighting key aspects of Melbourne’s cultural heritage.

Inclusive and Engaging City

The draft Master Plan is consistent under these values and will assist in achieving a sense of identity and character for Melbourne (Strategic Direction 3.5)

Innovative and Vital Business City

There will be no significant sustainability impact.

Attachments: 1. Reference Committee Membership 2. Summary of Submissions 3. Draft Carlton Gardens Master Plan

2

Environmentally Responsible City

The Draft Master Plan recommendations will lead to more environmentally responsible management of Carlton Gardens.

Recommendation

That the City Services, Community and Cultural Development Committee:

• approve the release of the new Carlton Gardens Draft Master Plan (Attachment 3) for public comment to allow the preparation of a final Plan for approval by Council and Museum Victoria in early 2005; and

• note that this decision is being made by the Committee under delegation from the Council and is subject to the referral notice process.

3

C I T Y S E R V I C E S , C O M M U N I T Y A N D C U L T U R A L D E V E L O P M E N T C O M M I T T E E R E P O R T

Agenda Item 5.1

3 August 2004

DRAFT CARLTON GARDENS MASTER PLAN

Division Assets & Services

Presenter Vince Haining, Group Manager Parks & Recreation

Purpose

1. To seek approval to release for public comment the Draft Carlton Gardens Master Plan.

Background

2. The Carlton Gardens are among Australia’s most significant heritage gardens which, together with the Royal Exhibition Building (REB), were recently listed on the World Heritage Register. The Gardens and REB are also listed on the State Heritage Register and are expected to be listed on the new National Heritage Register.

3. The Gardens were originally laid out in the 1850’s, with the southern part being redesigned to provide the setting for the REB during the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition. The northern part was built over in 1880 and again in 1888 during the Exhibition celebrating the centenary of European settlement in Australia . The present North Gardens were laid out following demolition of the buildings erected for this exhibition.

4. The Carlton Gardens also form a key component of Melbourne’s outstanding inner open space network and provide valuable recreational space for Melbourne residents, workers and other visitors with about 2 million people using the Gardens annually. The Gardens are a popular venue for activities such as wedding ceremonies, filming and small scale community events. In conjunction with the REB the Gardens comprise the venue for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.

5. The Melbourne City Council as Committee of Management under the Crown Lands Reserves Act 1978, is responsible for management of the Carlton Gardens. Museum Victoria is responsible for managing the Exhibition Reserve which contains the REB and its forecourts (south, east and west), the new Museum building and the open space plaza between the REB and the Museum.

6. To clearly set out the future directions for the management of the Gardens, the former Environment, Community and Cultural Development Committee at its meeting on 6 May 2003, resolved to prepare a new Master Plan for the Carlton Gardens. Funds to enable commencement of the project were provided in Council’s 2003/2004 budget.

7. The open space component of the whole site including the surrounds of the REB and the Carlton Gardens bordered by Carlton, Nicholson, and Rathdowne Streets and Victoria Parade which form a single planning unit. To facilitate comprehensive planning of the entire site Museum Victoria has agreed that the Master Plan should apply not only to the Carlton Gardens but also to the forecourts surrounding the REB. The plaza area between the REB and the Museum is excluded from consideration by this Plan as the Museum has advised that it is reviewing this space in association with the REB.

4

Heritage Considerations

8. The Carlton Gardens provide a unique setting for the Royal Exhibition Building. As a listed World Heritage site, Carlton Gardens now has a standing and stature of importance unequalled in any other park site throughout Australia. It is Australia’s fifteenth site of World Heritage status, and the first built (cultural) site. It also joins other sites on the list such as the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, Taj Mahal and Kew Gardens.

9. The heritage significance of the Carlton Gardens and REB can be considered as a hierarchy, ranging from the highest level, ie World Heritage significance, followed by National, State and Local levels. Each level of significance is assessed against different, but complementary sets of criteria. In summary these levels are:

9.1. World Heritage: the Carlton Gardens and REB are listed under criterion 2 of the World Heritage Convention, which recognises its value as an outstanding surviving manifestation of the international exhibition movement of the late nineteenth and to early twentieth century;

9.2. National Heritage: the Carlton Gardens and REB have been nominated for listing on the new convention, National Heritage Register with the period 1880-1901, which covers both the international exhibitions and Australian federation, being of major significance;

9.3. State Heritage: the Carlton Gardens and REB are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register recognising values relating from establishment to the present day. This listing gives Heritage Victoria the responsibility for issuing permits for development and exempting the Gardens from planning permits under the Melbourne Planning Scheme; and

9.4. Local Heritage: features such as the tennis courts that have no higher level of significance have been assessed as having local heritage significance.

Conservation Management Plan

10. In order to consider heritage values of the site as a whole, the Council and Museum Victoria are preparing a single Conservation Management Plan for the Exhibition Reserve (including the REB) and Carlton Gardens.

11. The purpose of this Conservation Management Plan is to identify and assess the significance of the overall site and all cultural, historical and/or social elements which contribute to the exceptional value of the site and recommend objectives to protect and manage these elements appropriately. The Conservation Management Plan is therefore a pre-eminent reference in determining the policies to be applied to specific elements of the gardens as reflected in the Draft Master Plan.

12. The draft Conservation Management Plan is currently being finalised and will be publicly available during the proposed consultation period for the Draft Master Plan.

Development of the Draft Master Plan

13. The well accepted process that has been used for developing all recent parks and gardens master plans has been adopted to develop the Carlton Gardens Master Plan. This process involves the preparation and release of an Issues Paper (March 2004), the development and release of a Draft Master Plan (August 2004), and the proposed preparation of a final Master Plan for Council and Museum Victoria approval in early 2005.

5

Carlton Gardens Master Plan Reference Committee

14. Consistent with the process and to assist the preparation of the Draft Master Plan, the Environment, Community and Cultural Development Committee in May 2003 resolved to establish the Carlton Gardens Master Plan Reference Committee representing groups associated with the Carlton Gardens and chaired by Councillors Kimberley Kitching and Kate Redwood (see Attachment 1 for terms of reference and membership of the Reference Group).

15. The Reference Committee met 6 times in formal session. Members also participated in 3 workshops on Heritage Issues, Vehicle Movement and Parking, and Uses and Interfaces. This Group was pivotal in assisting the preparation the Draft Master Plan.

16. At the 2 June 2004 meeting of the Reference Committee, the consultants preparing the Conservation Management Plan presented an overview and approach to specific heritage features outlined in the Plan.

Issues Paper

17. The Issues Paper released in March 2004 set out background information relating to the Gardens and REB forecourts and posed a series of questions to help generate feedback from the community.

18. The Issues Paper was made widely available . It was advertised in the local newspapers, sent to all stakeholders and listed on Council’s website. In addition, signs alerting the public to the Master Plan preparation were erected in the Carlton Gardens and information sessions were held in the Gardens. A widely advertised Public Forum attended by 40 people was held at the Museum on 23 March 2004.

19. Feedback on the Issues Paper was invited by mail, fax, telephone and email and a total of 60 written submissions were received. Feedback was also invited at the Public Forum.

20. All responses to the matters raised following the release of the Issues Paper were collated and summarised into a report titled “Carlton Gardens Master Plan – Summary of Feedback”. This report formed a key input into the development of this Draft Master Plan and forms Attachment 2.

Draft Carlton Gardens Master Plan

21. The Draft Master Plan is underpinned by the objective to protect the heritage values of the Gardens, while providing for contemporary needs and uses. The Master Plan also incorporates initiatives outlined in the first master plan developed in 1990, and as far as possible reflects community views expressed since the release of the Issues Paper in March 2004.

22. The Draft Master Plan recommends the protection and enhancement where appropriate of all the elements relating to the period of significance identified in the draft Conservation Management Plan (1880 to 1901). This period was chosen as it covers both the structures and events of international and national importance for the site. It also recommends a number of opportunities for enhancement of the Gardens and REB forecourts.

Vision for the Gardens

23. As part of the Issues Paper feedback it was evident that the significance of the REB and the Gardens to Melbourne, Australia and globally warranted the articulation of a clear vision to guide the future development of these unique assets. The Draft Master Plan proposes a vision to give effect to this intention.

6

24. The following proposals are made in line with the vision in respect of key areas of the Gardens and forecourts.

Forecourts

25. The Draft Master Plan recommends significant landscape improvements, to the south, east and west forecourts to provide an enhanced setting for the REB reminiscent of the 1880-1901 period. Specifically:

25.1. South Forecourt: to restore the grand pedestrian promenade by replacing sections of the asphalt abutting the southern wall of the REB with grass or ground cover plantings, progressively removing car parking from the vicinity of the southern entry of the REB and re-creating the garden parterre beds along the promenade consistent with the 1880-1901 form; and

25.2. East and West Forecourts: to recreate the German circle in the west forecourt based as far as possible on historical (or archaeological) evidence. To provide a pedestrian and landscape connection between the North and South Carlton Gardens along both Rathdowne and Nicholson Streets by developing unifying tree plantings and path links (while maintaining access to the new Museum).

South Gardens

26. The South Gardens provide unique vistas to the REB. With majestic avenues of exotic trees and a grand entry up Plane Walk the Plan recommends maintaining the fabric of the South Gardens while re-establishing some now missing pathway sections and re-creating the garden bed that formed the original rose bed. The Plan proposes to remove the chain walk garden bed and return it to grass in line with the original garden layout.

North Gardens

27. The North gardens have a recreational use component associated with them not present in the South gardens. The Draft Master Plan recommends removing the existing works depot and returning the area to lawn, thus returning the space to public use and opening up vistas across the North Gardens. The Plan proposes construction of a new park maintenance facility in the discussed enclosed area behind the existing house and consolidation of the playgrounds (while enhancing play experiences) in the short term. It recommends exploring a play-experience area in the longer term based upon interactive play opportunities, possibly including the use of horticulture and learning experiences.

Connections and Linkages

28. Many responses received to the Issues Paper expressed a desire to provide better pedestrian links to the surrounding residential and commercial areas. Therefore the Draft Master Plan recommends improving pedestrian priority and linkages across Victoria Parade, Rathdowne Street and Nicholson Street.

Bike Path Connections

29. Currently use of the Gardens for cycling is prohibited under the Gardens Regulations. The feedback on possible use of pathways within the Gardens for bikes was mixed.

7

30. The Draft Plan proposes significantly improving bike route connections around the garden by upgrading routes along Rathdowne and Nicholson Streets and improving the linkage from the Canning Street bike route to the Central Business District. It acknowledges that the east west connection between Gertrude and Queensberry Streets along the south side of the REB will remain a high “desire” route by cyclists. However, the Plan recommends that the issue of bike riding in this area be further investigated with Museum Victoria as this land is controlled by Museum Victoria.

Tree Planting

31. As the character of the Gardens depends significantly on its avenue trees and other mature trees, and many of these trees will substantially pass their normal life span in the next 15-20 years, it is essential that a pro-active tree planting program is undertaken. The Draft Master Plan therefore recommends progressively replanting some of the tree avenues, commencing with the most critical. It is also proposed to selectively plant in lawn areas to maintain canopy cover and around the perimeter of Gardens. Proposed planting would be predominantly exotic species.

Recreational Uses

32. With over 2 million visitors to these gardens each year, the Draft Master Plan proposes continuing contemporary uses and activities where these are consistent with the World Heritage Listing, National Listing or State Heritage principles and values.

33. The presence of the tennis courts (which date back to 1921) is also considered within the Draft. It is proposed that the existing facilities remain and that their presence be reviewed should future usage decline to the point where their removal is warranted. The existing basketball rings should be reviewed and relocated if an alternative site can be found. The Draft Master Plan proposes no organised team sports activities be permitted in these gardens.

34. Dog Walking: as the Carlton Gardens are formal gardens with limited lawn spaces, the Draft Master Plan recommends that dog walking on-leash should continue to be permitted but no off-leash area be created. Some responses supported the creation of off-leash areas. However, on balance the intensive high use of these gardens mitigates against off-leash designated areas.

Events

35. International Flower and Garden Show: this is a world class event consistent with the ongoing use of the Garden and REB as a venue for major exhibition events. The compatibility of the historic use of the Gardens and the ongoing use of the Gardens for this event in conjunction with the REB, has been noted in the submission to ICOMOS which has supported the listing submission. However, the Master Plan recommends that this event should continue to be subject to stringent conditions that protect the Gardens environment. The Draft Master Plan does not support any other major events occurring in the Carlton Gardens.

Environmental Sustainability

36. Management of gardens requires a balance to be maintained between the need to reduce resource use, especially mains water, and to ensure the health of the trees and other plants. Strong community support was expressed for replacing mains water with recycled water, but a mixed response was received to the suggestion that lawns be allowed to yellow through reduced water use. The Draft Master Plan recommends that priority should be given to water use for tree health and garden beds, that other water reducing measures such as mulching be used, that high water demanding plant and tree species be avoided and that sources of recycled water should be explored.

8

Interpretation

37. The historic nature of the site lends itself to good interpretation and the Draft Master Plan recommends developing a comprehensive interpretation plan in conjunction with Museum Victoria , which will address issues such as guided tours, brochures, signage and any need for an information centre.

Relation to Council Policy

38. Preparation of the Master Plan is in line with Council’s Parks Policy (1997), which commits Council to prepare plans for all the City’s major parks. It is also in line with Council’s commitment to support World Heritage listing of the Carlton Gardens, and Council’s approval of the Memorandum of Understanding with Museum Victoria (June 2004) for co-operative management of the REB and Carlton Gardens.

39. The Draft recommendations contained in the Draft Master Plan are compatible with Council’s Tree Policy (1998) and Strategy for Ageing and Drought Affected Trees (2003). The recommendations are also compatible with Growing Green, An Environmental Sustainability Plan for the City of Melbourne’s Open Space and Recreational Facilities (February 2003).

Consultation

40. The development of the Draft Master Plan has involved extensive consultation in two stages:

40.1. at the announcement of the commencement of the process when public input was sought on the preparation of the Issues Paper; and

40.2. following the release of the Issues Paper when feedback was sought on the issues raised and questions posed in the Paper.

41. Consultation methods included press advertisements, stakeholder meetings, signage on site, media releases, entries on Council’s website and a public meeting held at the Museum on 23 March 2003.

42. A total of 60 responses were received in response to the Issues Paper, prior to preparation of the Draft Master Plan. Feedback comments are included in the section of this report “Carlton Gardens Draft Master Plan”. A complete summary of all submissions is included in Attachment 2.

43. As Museum Victoria is responsible for the REB forecourts all recommendations for these areas will be subject to Museum Victoria’s approval. A representative of Museum Victoria has participated in the Reference Group and the Draft Plan is acceptable to Museum Victoria for public release.

44. The National Trust and Carlton Residents Association as members of the Reference Group have provided written feedback which is supportive of the Draft Plan. The Carlton Gardens Group, also represented on the Reference Committee, has provided detailed feedback which has been incorporated in the Draft Plan where appropriate.

Next Steps

45. Subject to Committee approval, it is proposed to send the Draft Master Plan to all stakeholders, community and interest groups and to allow a period of 3 months for responses to be received. Following the formation of the next Council (November 2004) it is proposed to engage in formal consultation with parties and then present the final Master Plan to Council in early 2005 for approval.

9

Government Relations

46. A nomination for the World Heritage listing was submitted by the Australian Government and a representative of the Commonwealth Department of Environment has participated in the Reference Committee. A representative from the State Department of Sustainability and Environment representing the Minister responsible for Crown Lands (Minister Delahunty) has been involved in preparing the Draft Master Plan.

47. As the Carlton Gardens are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, approval from Heritage Victoria is required for any works in the Gardens. A representative of Heritage Victoria has participated on the Working Group and the Draft Plan is acceptable to Heritage Victoria for public release.

Recommendation

48. That the City Services, Community and Cultural Development Committee:

48.1. approve the release of the new Carlton Gardens Draft Master Plan (Attachment 3) for public comment to allow the preparation of a final Plan for approval by Council and Museum Victoria in early 2005; and

48.2. note that this decision is being made by the Committee under delegation from the Council and is subject to the referral notice process.

1

Attachment 1 Agenda Item 5.1

City Services, Community and Cultural Development Committee 3 August 2004

CARLTON GARDENS MASTER PLAN COMMITTEE

Member Organisation Councillor Kate Redwood Co-Convenor Councillor Kimberley Kitching Co-Convenor Elizabeth Boyle Commonwealth Department of Environment & Heritage Fiona Byrne City of Yarra Jo Grigg Friends of the Elms John Williams Carlton Gardens Primary School Leah McKenzie Heritage Victoria Margaret O’Brien Carlton Gardens Group Olivia Ford Melbourne Museum Paul Rominen Academy of Mary Immaculate Peter Matthews / Ron Butters East Enders Phillip Goode Australian Garden History Society Professor Catherin Bull University of Melbourne Ronnie Fookes Melbourne Museum Sue Chambers Carlton Residents Group Wayne Malone Department of Sustainability & Environment Wendy Dwyer National Trust Bart Sbegan Bicycle Victoria Jeanne Allen Carlton Gardens Tennis Club Vince Haining City of Melbourne Ian Harris City of Melbourne Angela Hill City of Melbourne Rob Adams City of Melbourne Ian Winter City of Melbourne Nina Isabella City of Melbourne

1

Attachment 2 Agenda Item 5.1

City Services, Community and Cultural Development Committee 3 August 2004

CARLTON GARDENS MASTER PLAN – SUMMARY OF RESPONSES TO ISSUES PAPER

Comment Profile

Written submissions

A total of 60 submissions were received in response to the Issues Paper. Nearly all were from people (or organisations) not on the Reference Group, but all used the Gardens. A few submissions were from people who also attended the public meeting, but generally the submissions were from people who had not made any comment previously.

Public meeting

Approximately 40 people attended the public meeting at the Museum. Key themes were discussed in a round table format – 4 tables in all. No specific resolutions were put at the meeting.

Reference group workshops

Three reference group member workshops were held, covering the specific issues of heritage and conservation, vehicle movement and uses and linkages. The key outcomes from the workshops are summarised in a separate document.

Comments prior to development of Issues paper

A preliminary list of comments collected before the Issues Paper was developed is also still relevant material. Only a few of these people formally responded to the Issues Paper, which could mean that they did not feel it was necessary to put their views again.

Response to Issues

Heritage and Conservation

1. What aspects of Carlton Gardens and Exhibition Reserve are important for you? There was a wide range of responses to this question. Some of the commonly mentioned features were the openness and peace, trees and flowers, historical features, the perennial plants, the range of bird life and the fountains and ponds.

2. Which elements of the historic Gardens should be a priority in planning for its future design and management? There was also a wide range of responses to this question from the specific (eg retain bluestone plinth) to the broad (eg integration of the 3 parts of the site). The restoration of the western side of the REB was the issue most mentioned.

3. Would you like to see an interpretive program established for Carlton Gardens and Exhibition Reserve to explain heritage values to visitors? There were only ten comments made on this matter, with one stating that historic restoration was more important than interpretation, and the rest indicating support. Three comments specifically mentioned that an interpretative program be discreet and not intrusive.

2

4. What other historic elements of the gardens are important for your enjoyment? A number of comments were made here, and reflected comments made by others in previous questions.

Public Meeting: Heritage

Discussion covered issues around preservation/re-creation of features, interpretation, integrating sustainability into heritage issues, MIFGS, The Western Circle and standards of maintenance.

Uses

1. What kinds of activities and events do you think are appropriate for Carlton Gardens and how often should they occur? MIFGS – which was on while the consultation exercise was happening – attracted comment, with both arguments for it to be relocated, and for it to be retained put forward. Some submissions noted that it’s appropriateness depended on whether it could be focussed on the Museum forecourt in the future. The potential of the restoration fund was also noted. Informal gatherings and activities were generally seen as appropriate. The Gardens role in hosting Melbourne-wide events, and a proposal to designate a weekend spot for roller-bladers on the Museum forecourt was also mentioned.

2. Should cycling be allowed in Carlton Gardens? If so, should specific cycling routes or cycling times or other management techniques be introduced? 31 submissions supported cycling in the Gardens with specific management measures, such as line marking of specific routes, speed limits and pedestrian priority. Most (but not all) of these submitters identified themselves as cyclists.

The Queensberry to Gertrude St link was particularly mentioned in 8 submissions.

3. Should the current ‘no cycling’ regulations remain, and the cycling networks around the gardens improved instead? Nine submissions supported keeping the ‘no bike’ policy, with two noting that a link from Queensberry to Gertrude Streets would be acceptable within this framework. None of this group identified themselves as cyclists.

16 submissions suggested the cycling network around the Gardens should be improved anyway and a number of specific locations for improvement were mentioned.

4. What is your view on the use of the Gardens for informal recreational activities such as games and dog walking? The use of the Gardens for informal games and Tai Chi were mentioned as positives, the general view was that current activities were basically fine, but that increased use overtime would require good management. Three submissions called for an increase in the overall activity and visitation level in the Gardens. 6 submissions favoured retaining the current dog regulations, 4 supported the designation of an off leash area and 2 argued for a ‘no dog’ policy.

5. If the old depot site is removed or reduced in size, what would you like to see this additional open space used for? No submission opposed the concept of removing or reducing the size of the depot.

A variety of suggestions were made for future uses including returning it to open parkland, re-creation consistent with original design, flower beds, off-leash area, community garden, Tai Chi area and skate park.

3

6. Are the current recreational facilities in Carlton Gardens appropriate? Would you like to see any of these facilities improved? Submissions generally thought the current range of facilities were appropriate, with a range of specific improvements suggested. Public barbeques and the need for more seats was mentioned more than once. A petition was received signed by 18 older people who sent it in after having a picnic in the Gardens, which calls specifically for additional picnic tables. Visual improvements to the tennis court area were also proposed.

7. Should the historic curator’s cottage continue as a gardener’s residence or be used for another community purpose (and if so, what?) Of the 15 comments made on this issue, 9 thought the continuation of the ‘gardener/caretaker’ residence role was appropriate.

Suggestions for other purposes included a “guest curator’s” program (which would include an educational interpretive element), craft cottage and Ranger Station.

8. Should the old playground be removed or be relocated adjacent to one of the new playgrounds? 10 comments were received and there were mixed views on the matter, with some favouring the status quo and others supporting consolidation.

The needs of different aged children (eg toddlers vs. school children) were noted.

9. Other Issues A range of specific comments on use issues not related to any of the above questions were made.

A number of these were about the museum precinct and vehicle movement and activity in that area.

Possum management and safety, including expanding the opening hours of the toilets and better management of drug activity in the Gardens were also raised.

Public Meeting: Uses

Key issues covered were MIFGS, bike riding, dog areas, need for better access in the Gardens (eg Victoria St), management of bump in/out for REB, playground and general safety.

Landscape Character, Design and Planting

1. While respecting the ‘Burra Charter’ principles, what are your views on the priority for design or works in the gardens? There were not many responses to this question, possibly because it covered similar territory to Heritage and Conservation priorities. Possum management and recognition of indigenous history were two new issues mentioned.

2. Do you have any comments in relation to future tree renewal and planting? Only 1 out of the thirteen comments on this question was against tree removal on principle. Generally the need to forward plan and act was acknowledged. Specific comments made covered the need to include tree renewal in Exhibition Reserve in the plan, replacing trees lost in the Museum construction on Nicholson and Rathdowne Streets, and the need for replacement planting to reflect both heritage considerations and be less water dependant.

4

3. Is it a priority to reinstate planting in the eastern and western forecourts of the Royal Exhibition Building and along its southern edge? If so, what form should these plantings take? There was not a strong response to this question (8), and only one submission thought it was not a priority. There were differing views about the form of planting, with views ranging from need to be historically accurate to being water conservative.

4. In principle, do you agree with removing some garden beds, objects or features that are not in keeping with the heritage value of Carlton Gardens such as the Chain Walk and the Melbourne Peace Garden, and replacing them with plantings more in keeping with the 19th century style of the garden? A number of comments were positive about the existing garden beds, with the current display around the fountain (which includes vegetables) specifically remarked on. There was only minor support for the principle of specific removal of the Chain Walk and Peace Garden.

5. Should the Master Plan contain a list of priority actions and works? The six responses to this question were all generally supportive, with a couple noting that there needs to be flexibility to change priorities over time if things change.

Public Meeting: Landscape, Planing & Sustainable Design

Discussions on plantings covered the need to keep the Gardens colourful, look at planting in Exhibition Reserve and tree replacement.

Environmental Sustainability

1. Do you consider it a priority to invest capital to develop alternative water sources for the gardens, such as the construction of a rainwater storage facility or the development of a water mining program? 14 responses were received on this question. All supported the principle, with degrees of enthusiasm ranging from “if necessary” to “definitely”. Re-use of stormwater from buildings for irrigation was specifically mentioned a number of times, and water mining was not commented on at all. One submission argued that there would be a more economic way of gaining water credits for the Gardens than investing in specific infrastructure.

2. Would it be acceptable to allow some areas of grass or turf in Carlton Gardens to yellow to some extent over summer to save water? Both yes and no answers were given to this question – no clear directions overall from the total of 8 comments.

3. Is more extensive mulching around trees to protect their health and save water acceptable? From 11 responses, nine agreed, one was against, and one said the current mulching was not good enough.

4. Do you have any other ideas on reducing the environmental impact of managing the gardens? Stormwater management, litter traps, mulching plant beds, recycling bins, reducing energy use, minimising maintenance through capital upgrades, possum management and removing surface car parking were all mentioned.

5

Connections and Links

1. Is it a priority to improve pedestrian access to Carlton Gardens and Exhibition Reserve, particularly across Victoria Street? This question received a clear response – with all 12 responses clearly in support. The two key issues identified for Victoria Street was the short light sequence for pedestrians, at Nicholson Street, and the Spring Street intersection. It was noted that access from Latrobe Street also required attention.

2. How important is it to reinstate the links (to the east and west of the new museum) between the north and south gardens? The improvement of links between Gardens and Exhibition Reserve was strongly supported by all who commented on it (12).

3. Do you think it is important to link Carlton Gardens and Exhibition Reserve with other public squares in Carlton by planting or other means to enhance the Pelham Street corridor? This proposal gained more moderate support compared to Victoria Street, with one submission saying it wasn’t important, and six saying it was. It was also noted that traffic lights at corner with Rathdowne Street may be desirable.

4. Other Issues Some open space links from the Fitzroy area were identified and the development of specific ‘entrances’ into the Gardens through use of cast iron gates was proposed.

Issues raised not linked to any specific section

Funding and implementation of the Master Plan needs to be considered.

Attachment 3 Agenda Item 5.1

City Services, Community and Cultural Development Committee 3 August 2004

CARLTON GARDENS DRAFT MASTER PLAN AUGUST 2004

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Master Plan Vision 2. Introduction

2.1 Purpose of the Master Plan 2.2 Preparing the Plan 2.3 Next Steps – Your Input

3. The Setting 3.1 Historical Context 3.2 Current Management Arrangements 3.3 Heritage Significance: World, National, State, and Local 4. Future Directions and Guiding Principles

4.1 Heritage and Conservation 4.2 Urban Context 4.3 Fabric, Features and Planting 4.4 Uses and Activities 4.5 Connections and Linkages 4.6 Pedestrian and Vehicle Movements 4.7 Environmental Sustainability 4.8 Interpretation

5. Garden Precincts

5.1 Royal Exhibition Building Forecourts 5.2 South Carlton Gardens 5.3 North Carlton Gardens

6. Management 6.1 Future Management 6.2 Maintenance Issues 7. Implementation 7.1 Implementation Priorities 8. Review of the Plan

Page 2 of 21

CARLTON GARDENS DRAFT MASTER PLAN

AUGUST 2004

1. Master Plan Vision The Carlton Gardens will be the living setting for the world significant Royal

Exhibition Building and reflect the historical, cultural and social aspirations of late 19th century Marvellous Melbourne.

The Gardens will be a treasured recreational space, contributing significantly to Melbourne’s public domain. 2. Introduction Melbourne’s much loved Carlton Gardens are an essential and unique setting for the majestic Royal Exhibition Building.

With its stunning tree avenues, formal garden beds and pathways, the World Heritage site is linked to the historic International Exhibition Movement of the late nineteenth century and the birth of Australian federation. Originally established in the 1850’s, the Gardens were redesigned for the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition and are one of Australia’s most significant heritage gardens. Their heritage significance is recognised by their listing on the World Heritage list, the National Heritage list and the Victorian Heritage Register. The Gardens also form a key component of Melbourne’s outstanding inner urban open space network and provide valuable recreational space for Melbourne residents, workers and visitors. 2.1 Purpose of the Master Plan To set out the future directions for the management of the Gardens and the three forecourts of the Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne City Council in conjunction with Museum Victoria, is developing a new Master Plan for this site. Once approved, this Plan will outline the long term vision and guide the development and management of these areas over the next 10 years. 2.2 Preparing the Plan Preparing a Master Plan requires extensive community involvement. To ensure the community is fully involved in the decision-making process, a three-step approach has been adopted for preparing this Master Plan. These three steps are:   Preparation of an Issues Paper seeking public input between February and

April 2004, which resulted in valuable comment and input.

Page 3 of 21

  Preparation of the draft Master Plan seeking public comment.

  Preparation of the final Master Plan which will be considered by Council and

the Museums Board of Victoria for approval.

The preparation of the Master Plan has been assisted by a Reference Committee representing groups associated with the Carlton Gardens and chaired by the Chair of Council’s City Services, Community and Cultural Development Committee and the Chair of the Council’s Commonwealth Games Infrastructure and Major Projects Committee. The organisations represented on the committee are listed under Acknowledgements. One of the key objectives of the Master Plan is to ensure that the Carlton Gardens are managed to protect their heritage significance. For this reason, many of the recommendations in this Master Plan are underpinned by the recommendations of the draft Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens Conservation Management Plan. The draft Conservation Management Plan outlines the overall heritage significance of the Gardens and the Royal Exhibition Building and sets out a series of objectives for protecting and enhancing their historic features.

The recommendations contained in this Master Plan not only reflect the heritage values of the Carlton Gardens but incorporate a number of ideas and initiatives outlined in the first Master Plan prepared in 1990. The recommendations also take account of developments that have occurred in the precinct since 1990, such as construction of Melbourne Museum. They reflect, as far as possible, the views of the community expressed since the publication of the Issues Paper in March 2004. 2.3 Next Steps - Your Input This draft Master Plan is now being released for community input to assist the preparation of the final Master Plan. The draft Conservation Management Plan for the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens is also available for viewing. Please contact the number below for further details. As Council will be in caretaker mode between September and the Council election in November 2004, consultation will be undertaken in line with the Council’s caretaker policy during this period. Feedback on this draft plan is invited and all comments will be considered for inclusion in the final Master Plan which will then be submitted to Council in early 2005 for approval. Preferably your views should be expressed in writing to be received by 17 December 2004. Please send your comments to: Post: Carmen Dart Parks & Recreation City of Melbourne GPO Box 1603 Melbourne Victoria 3001 Email: cardar@melbourne.vic.gov.au Telephone: 03 9658 8574 Facsimile: 03 9658 9174

Page 4 of 21

3. The Setting

3.1 Historical Context The original inhabitants of the area were the Woiworung people who knew an Eucalypt woodlands landscape very different from today’s urban environment. The present Carlton Gardens were originally set aside for public use early in Melbourne’s history in the 1850’s. In the late 1870’s, they were redeveloped for the Melbourne International Exhibition held in 1880. At this time the South Carlton Gardens formed the entry to the Royal Exhibition Building with the fabric of the landscape remaining largely intact since. The North Carlton Gardens were almost completely covered by buildings during the 1880 exhibition and again during the 1888 exhibition celebrating the Centenary of European settlement in Australia. These Gardens were reinstated after the two exhibitions and retain much of the original fabric from that era. However, they also include subsequent developments such as the tennis courts and playgrounds. Between the North and South Carlton Gardens lies Exhibition Reserve which contains the grand Royal Exhibition Building built in 1880 and the contemporary Melbourne Museum which opened in 2000. The whole site, including Carlton Gardens and Exhibition Reserve, bordered by Nicholson, Rathdowne and Carlton Streets and Victoria Parade, has been listed by the World Heritage Committee on the World Heritage List as a rare surviving example of one of the great international Exhibition places. It is still used to hold exhibitions. The site is also listed on the National Heritage list. As well as its importance as the place of the Melbourne International Exhibition in 1880, the site also hosted the opening of Australia’s first Commonwealth Parliament and the first flying of the Australian flag in 1901. 3.2 Current Management Arrangements The Carlton Gardens are Crown land, permanently reserved as Public Gardens under the Crown Lands Reserve Act (1978). The Gardens are managed by the Melbourne City Council as a committee of management. The Exhibition Reserve, containing the Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne Museum and the open space between and immediately surrounding these buildings, is also Crown land and is managed by Museum Victoria under the Museums Act (1983). Coordinated planning and management of the site as a whole is essential in order to protect its heritage values. Museum Victoria and the Melbourne City Council have recently entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to ensure that this occurs. The Memorandum commits both parties to cooperate in meeting the requirements associated with the World Heritage inscription, and to identify areas within the site where a joint management approach is required.

Page 5 of 21

As a first step towards overall planning of the whole site, both parties are jointly preparing a single Conservation Management Plan for the Exhibition Reserve, including the Royal Exhibition Building, and the Carlton Gardens. The purpose of the Conservation Management Plan is to assess the significance of all the elements of the site and outline management objectives for each of these elements. The objectives of the Plan are therefore reflected in the draft Master Plan. Museum Victoria and Council have also agreed that this draft Master Plan should apply to both the North and South Carlton Gardens and the areas of the Exhibition Reserve that link the North and South Carlton Gardens (i.e. the east and west sides of the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum). However, it does not include the plaza area between the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum. (See Plan 1). As the whole site is listed in the Victorian Heritage Register any proposed changes to the place require the approval of the Executive Director, Heritage under the provisions of the Victorian Heritage Act 1995. The recent listing in the World Heritage List also enables the Commonwealth Government to have a management role under the provision of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Control Act 1999. 3.3 Heritage Significance: World, National, State and Local The heritage significance of the Carlton Gardens and Royal Exhibition Building is best considered as a hierarchy, ranging from the highest, world heritage significance, followed by national, state and local levels of heritage significance. Each level of significance is assessed against different, but complementary sets of criteria. The draft Conservation Management Plan outlines each of these levels of significance in detail. In summary, the levels of significance are: i) World Heritage - The Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens is

inscribed on the World Heritage List by the World Heritage Committee under one of the World Heritage criteria established by the World Heritage Convention adopted by UNESCO in 1972. This nomination is based on the significance of the Royal Exhibition Building as a rare surviving Palace of Industry and associated garden setting from one of the major International Exhibitions which were part of the international exhibition movement of the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century in its original setting of the Carlton Gardens.

ii) National Heritage - The Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens

have also been nominated for the National Heritage Register as a place of National Heritage significance. This nomination is based on the role of the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens in the exhibition movement and the Federation of Australia. It was the place where the first national Parliament was held in 1901 and the place where the first Australian flag was flown. It was also the location of the Victorian Parliament while the national Parliament temporarily used Parliament House in Spring Street until the Parliament House in Canberra was constructed.

Melbourne CentralBusiness District

Nic

hols

on S

treet

Rat

hdow

ne S

treet

Carlton Street

Victoria Street

Mun

icip

al B

ound

ary

NORTH

FITZ

RO

YC

ITY

OF

YAR

RA

CA

RLT

ON

CIT

Y O

F M

ELB

OU

RN

E PLAZA EXCLUDED

Area covered by Master PlanPlan 1Exhibition Reserve

Page 6 of 21

iii) State Heritage - The Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens have been listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. The site is recognised for its historical, architectural, aesthetic, social and, scientific (botanical) significance to the State of Victoria. The Royal Exhibition Building is historically significant as the only major extant nineteenth century exhibition building in Australia. It is one of the few major nineteenth century exhibition buildings to survive worldwide. Together, with the associated landscaped gardens, the building forms one of the major surviving nineteenth century exhibition precincts in the world. The Carlton Gardens, the setting for the Royal Exhibition Building, are aesthetically significant for their nineteenth century ‘Gardenesque’ style featuring specimen trees, parterre garden beds, in a symmetrical design with the use of axial views and foci. The Hochgurtel and the ‘Grand Allé ’ lined with Plane Trees is integral to the setting of the Royal Exhibition Building.

iv) Local Heritage – The Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens have

been assessed using criteria of the Register of the National Estate, and found to contain several structures and elements of local historical significance such as the internal garden fencing and tennis court pavilion. The site is included under heritage overlay in the City of Melbourne planning scheme.

4 Future Directions and Guiding Principles

Future management of the Carlton Gardens and the forecourts of Exhibition Reserve will be guided by the overall vision. All recommendations outlined in this Master Plan have been developed to achieve this vision, which requires protection of the site’s heritage assets while ensuring it is available for continuing community use and major exhibitions. The recommendations take into account the objectives of the Conservation Management Plan as well as other management requirements, including public safety, disability access, recreational opportunities and environmental management. Future directions and guiding principles are set out under the following headings: heritage and conservation; urban context, fabric, features and planting; uses and activities; connection and linkages; pedestrian and vehicle movement; environmental sustainability; and interpretation. Other recommendations specific to individual precincts or garden settings within the site as a whole are outlined in Section 5 under the headings: Royal Exhibition Building forecourts - south, east and west; South Carlton Gardens and North Carlton Gardens. 4.1 Heritage and Conservation Recommendations relating to heritage values and features of the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens are based on the objectives and guidelines of the draft Conservation Management Plan (2004). The draft Conservation Management Plan identifies the key period of significance for the site as from 1880-1901, the period which covers both structures and events recognised as of international and national importance. The draft Conservation Management Plan forms a companion document to this draft Master Plan.

Page 7 of 21

The primary heritage objective of this Master Plan is to maintain the historical, aesthetic and social significance of the Carlton Gardens relating to its highest period of significance from 1880 to 1901. All conservation and adaptation works affecting elements of significance should be carried out in line with the Australian ICOMOS Burra Charter 1999. It should be noted that information on certain historical features is limited and further investigation will be needed before detailed plans can be prepared. Community feedback received following distribution of the Carlton Gardens Issues Paper indicated an overall appreciation of the historical and cultural significance of the Carlton Gardens and the Royal Exhibition Building, and supported conservation of the heritage values of the site.

Recommendations relating to heritage and conservation are:

i) To ensure the Carlton Gardens and forecourts of the Royal Exhibition Building provide a historically appropriate landscape setting for the Royal Exhibition Building.

ii) To support the continuing use of the Royal Exhibition Building as an

exhibition space. iii) To improve the visual and landscape connection between the North and

South Carlton Gardens, along the eastern and western frontages of Exhibition Reserve and to enhance the perception of a single site and a garden setting for the Royal Exhibition Building.

iv) To conserve the landscape and structures remaining from the highest level

of heritage significance (between 1880 and 1901) in its form and character by preservation or restoration, where practicable.

v) To progressively remove vegetation, landscape elements or structures that

detract from the heritage significance of the Carlton Gardens.

vi) To restore or reconstruct, where appropriate and practicable, damaged or altered structures or hard or soft landscape elements that were significant to the design of the Carlton Gardens and Royal Exhibition Building forecourts between 1880 and 1901.

vii) To further investigate the feasibility of reconstruction of some missing

features of the period of significance, such as sections of the original fence and gates.

viii) To ensure that no new structures are permitted in the Carlton Gardens

(including monuments or memorials) unless specified in this plan, are replacements of existing structures or are required for management of the Carlton Gardens (e.g. new lighting).

ix) To maintain and enhance significant views and vistas both to the Royal

Exhibition Building and within the Gardens themselves.

x) To interpret elements of heritage significance that cannot be reconstructed.

Page 8 of 21

4.2 Urban Context The Carlton Gardens and the Royal Exhibition Building are greatly enhanced by their setting within the fabric of inner Melbourne, which was laid out in the mid-nineteenth century. Many of the buildings surrounding the Carlton Garden were constructed during that era and their preservation is important for maintaining the context of the Royal Exhibition Building and the Carlton Gardens. This is best achieved through the planning scheme of the City of Melbourne which applies to all the land west of Nicholson Street and the planning scheme of the City of Yarra which applies to all the land east of Nicholson Street. Recommendations relating to the Carlton Gardens’ setting are: i) To ensure that appropriate planning controls in the City of Melbourne and the City of Yarra planning schemes take into account the need to protect the heritage setting of the Royal Exhibition Building and the Carlton Gardens. 4.3 Fabric, Features and Planting All gardens are evolving, dynamic places. However, historic gardens need different management approaches to those applied to buildings which can be preserved, restored and managed without significant change. Public gardens also have a role in providing valuable recreational open space for nearby residents and general visitors. In managing the Carlton Gardens, consideration must be given to ensuring they are sustainably managed and available for community use consistent with the heritage significance of the site. Pathways Much of the original pathway fabric of the Carlton Gardens remains intact and all surviving elements of the original layout should be conserved. Where practical, missing elements should be reconstructed. Recommendations relating to pathways are: i) To preserve the surviving nineteenth century layout of the path system and

restore or reconstruct, where practical, missing parts of the nineteenth century path system.

ii) To retain and preserve the asphalt surfacing of the pathways, while

developing a consistent edge treatment for the pathways based on historical evidence.

iii) To provide new path connections between the North and South Carlton

Gardens on both the eastern and western sides of Exhibition Reserve designed in a manner to be consistent with the style of existing Garden pathways.

Page 9 of 21

Trees Trees feature strongly in the landscape of the Carlton Gardens and are a significant element in the heritage character of the landscape. They provide a canopy over much of the site, and in avenues along many of the pathways. The majority of trees are deciduous, providing shade in summer and seasonal colour and leaf litter in autumn and winter. Conservation of the existing tree population requires good management to ensure the healthy life span of individual trees. However, unlike other heritage assets, this also requires planned removal and replacement of trees. As some of the significant trees in the Carlton Gardens are over 100 years old and are expected to reach the end of their live over the next 15-20 years, a proactive replacement program is needed to ensure the tree population is sustainable in the long-term. Recommendations relating to the trees in the Carlton Gardens are: i) To develop, and progressively implement a replanting program for the tree

avenues in the Carlton Gardens. As healthy even aged avenues of trees can only be maintained if groups of trees are planted at the same time, good avenue management requires the removal and replanting of whole sections of trees at once (including some healthy trees). Priority should be given to avenues where most of the trees are already declining in health, or those avenues where many of the trees are already missing. The priorities for replacement of avenue trees are outlined on plan 2.

ii) To develop in consultation with key stakeholders a planting program for

trees in lawn areas.

iii) To plant a range of tree species, primarily exotic with the selection being not inconsistent with these planted in the 1880-1901 period of significance. Species that are arborculturally unsound or require excessive water should not be used.

iv) To manage the current tree population, including significant trees, to ensure

their health and long life.

v) To conserve and replace individual significant trees like with like where necessary.

vi) To propagate and grow as individual tree specimens those trees that have

been identified as historically significant to maintain genetic provenance. Those identified are Acmena imgens (rare) and harpephyllen caltrum (rare and large).

vii) To progressively introduce new complementary trees around the perimeter

of the whole site. Garden beds The planting of garden beds throughout the Carlton Gardens has been progressively modified since the nineteenth century with different management regimens and planting fashions. A number of beds have also been removed while the layout and planting of some beds has changed and now disrupts views of the Royal Exhibition Building.

NI C

HO

LS

ON

C AR LT O N

V IC T O R IA

RA

TH

DO

WN

E

7

77

7

7

1

7

7

7

7

7

7

777

77

5

2

3

1 1

6

4

2 7

�

L E G E ND

1 - 6 P riority s taging within 10 years . 7 G reater than 10 years .

Avenue P lanting P riority

Tree Avenue Planting PrioritiesPlan 2

Page 10 of 21

Community feedback following the Issues Paper indicated people enjoyed the colourfulness and changing seasonal displays of plantings in the current garden beds. Recommendations in relation to planting beds are: i) To identify and, where appropriate conserve the surviving elements of the

historical nineteenth century planting schemes.

ii) To maintain and progressively renovate historic garden beds selecting species on the basis of historic evidence while having respect for current management and current community expectations. Species selection should take into account availability, potential maintenance levels and sustainability. If historical plant species are not available or are inappropriate, then substitute species should be used that maintain the form and structure of the original bed layout.

iii) To re-instate the former parterre garden bed concept in the south forecourt of the Royal Exhibition Building in accordance with the nineteenth century design concept and based on historic evidence. Plantings should be managed so they do not disrupt the significant views of the building.

iv) To renovate the planting on the islands and areas around the lakes.

Cast Iron Palisade Fence and Bluestone Plinth A cast iron fence on a bluestone plinth was constructed around the perimeter of the Carlton Gardens (and Exhibition Reserve) as part of the works for the 1880 Exhibition. Most of the fence was removed in 1928 except for a small section adjacent to the Curator’s Cottage which still remains. Subsequently, some sections of the bluestone plinth have been removed particularly along the east and west sides of the Exhibition Reserve. Recommendations in relation to the bluestone plinth and surviving fence are: i) To retain, conserve and repair the bluestone plinth.

ii) To retain, repair and conserve the palisade fence and gate adjacent to the

Curator’s Cottage. This will require removal and replacement of the Bhutan Cypress Hedge.

Internal Garden Bed Iron Fencing

Some examples of the original iron hurdle fencing, which was moved between garden beds, still survive. Recommendations for the internal garden bed fencing are: i) To retain and conserve all existing portions around garden beds and the

Curator’s Cottage and to reconstruct a small portion of missing fence to complete the enclosure of the flower bed adjacent to the western playground.

ii) To relocate fencing, as required, between alternative garden beds.

Page 11 of 21

Lakes The Gardens originally contained three lakes, the oldest being located in the North Garden which now forms the site of the larger playground, and two in the South Garden which remain but in modified form. Recommendations in relation to the lakes are: i) To investigate possible reconstruction of the lakes to their original form and

outline in the long term (See recommendation 5.2 South Carlton Gardens, recommendation (iii) and 5.3 North Carlton Gardens, recommendation (iv)).

ii) In the interim, refurbish the lakes in the South Gardens to ensure minimum

water leakage, and more appropriate edge treatment. The use of recycled water to fill the lakes should also be investigated.

4.4 Uses & Activities The Carlton Gardens have long provided an ideal place for informal recreation for people who live in the nearby area and for those who visit the gardens from further away. With over 2 million visitors every year, they are one of Melbourne’s most popular green spaces. The South Carlton Gardens cater for city workers, quiet contemplation, walking or relaxing and occasional events. The North Carlton Gardens cater for both passive recreation and some forms of active recreation such as tennis, informal basketball and informal ball games. The Carlton Gardens are a popular venue for activities such as wedding ceremonies, filming, and small-scale community events. In conjunction with the Royal Exhibition Building, the gardens have a history of hosting large-scale exhibitions even though the nature of these events has changed over the years. The South Carlton Gardens and the Royal Exhibition Building have been the venue for the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show since 1996. In order to seek advice on the management of this event, Council established an Advisory Committee in 2003. Council also established a fund, with income generated from the Show, which will be used to improve the Carlton Gardens in line with this Master Plan. The Carlton Gardens also cater for other activities such as picnicking and dog walking. The playground area is well used by local school children and school groups visiting Melbourne Museum. Over time it is anticipated the number of visitors to Carlton Gardens will increase due to increased residential development in the local area. Likewise, the number of tourists visiting the Gardens may increase with the inscription on the World Heritage list, and this increased tourism will need to be managed to minimise site impacts. The current range of recreational activities that occur in Carlton Gardens, such as informal games, picnics, play and Tai Chi, received strong community support following the release of the Issues Paper. Requests were received for greater bike access, dog off leash areas and more active recreational activities. However these proposals were also strongly opposed by others who supported the current arrangements.

Page 12 of 21

Community feedback also indicated people were generally happy with the range of recreational facilities provided in the Carlton Gardens. However, specific requests were made for more seating and picnic tables, which are compatible with the passive use of the Gardens and are recommended in this Master Plan. This Master Plan supports maintaining the current arrangements for recreational uses in Carlton Gardens, with a few minor amendments (as detailed below). Recommendations relating to uses and activities are: i) That the Carlton Gardens continue to be primarily managed for passive

recreation. Formal organised recreational activities (other than tennis on the existing tennis courts) should generally not be permitted.

ii) That activities such as filming, wedding ceremonies, photography and small

scale community events continue to be permitted in both the North and South Carlton Gardens.

iii) That no commercial events that require exclusive occupation of any part of

the Carlton Gardens (other than the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show) should be permitted in the Gardens. While the Gardens and the Royal Exhibition Building are the location for this event, it should be subject to conditions that ensure the protection of the historical significance and environment of the Gardens.

iv) That the use of the North Carlton Gardens for tennis should continue for the

foreseeable future. However, when the current structure is nearing the end of its lifespan, this use should be reviewed in line with community needs and heritage priorities. Minor repairs and improvements to the facility should be undertaken on an as-needed basis. No increase in footprint of the facility should be permitted.

v) That the existing playground facilities should be retained and consolidated

with no increase in area in the short term. However, their replacement with a new broader based play experience activity area in a less visually intrusive area of the Gardens (e.g. possibly close to the north wall of Melbourne Museum), should be investigated.

vi) That the current prohibition on bike-riding in the Carlton Gardens should remain. However to improve bike priority and movement in the precinct, bike routes around the Gardens should be upgraded to make them an attractive option to riding through the Gardens (see 4.5 Connections and Linkages, Recommendation (iii))

vii) That subject to a review of current use and requirements for basketball, an alternative location for informal basketball activities should be investigated, and if a viable alternative site is located, then the basketball court should be removed from the North Carlton Gardens.

viii) That as the Carlton Gardens are formal gardens with limited lawn spaces, dog walking on a lead should continue to be permitted but no off-lead areas should be created. Any opportunities for changes in dog off leash areas should be considered on a ’whole of municipality’ basis.

Page 13 of 21

ix) That the historic Curator’s Cottage continue to be used as a gardener’s residence for the immediate future. If another use consistent with heritage requirements is identified, and a sound business plan is developed, the cottage including the backyard, could be considered for conversion to accommodate community or interpretative purposes. No other use should be considered.

x) That universal access requirements be considered in the design of all new

facilities provided in the Gardens.

4.5 Connections and linkages

The Carlton Gardens provide an open space destination not only for residents of the Central Business District, Carlton and Fitzroy, but also for visitors across Melbourne and Victoria. Many visitors walk to the Carlton Gardens and Melbourne Museum either from adjoining areas or from Parliament Station or tram stops in Victoria Parade and Nicholson Street. However, major roads such as Nicholson Street on the east, Rathdowne Street on the west, and particularly Victoria Parade on the south, form barriers that prevent easy access to the Gardens and Exhibition Reserve. Community feedback following the release of the Issues Paper strongly supported improving pedestrian links to the Carlton Gardens, especially across Victoria Parade. The precinct experiences a high level of bike traffic, particularly as Canning Street north of the Gardens is a key north-south bike route. Submissions were received since release of the Issues Paper from some riders suggesting access from this route through the Gardens to the Central Business District. However, taking into account the views opposed to bike riding in the Gardens, it is considered that routes around the Gardens should be improved to cater for this demand. Submissions also indicated that the south forecourt of the Royal Exhibition Building was a desire line for bike riders between the bike routes in Gertrude Street east of the Gardens and Queensberry Street west of the Gardens. However, for safety and conservation reasons Museum Victoria which controls this land is not supportive of creating this bike route linkage at this stage. Recommendations relating to connections and linkages (See Plan 3) are: i) To improve the pedestrian priority and linkages from the Central Business District to the Gardens across Victoria Parade and Victoria Street, in particular at the Victoria Parade/Latrobe Street intersection. ii) To investigate options to improve pedestrian priority and linkages across Rathdowne Street to Pelham Street in Carlton and (in conjunction with the City of Yarra) across Nicholson Street to King William Street in Fitzroy. iii) To improve bike routes around the Gardens, particularly along Rathdowne

and Nicholson Streets, and better connect the Canning Street bike route around the Gardens to the Central Business District. The objective should be to make these routes more attractive alternatives to riders rather than the pathways through the Gardens.