Gayview Park Master Plan · ROSS Planning Pty Ltd . ABN 32 508 029 959 ... • Six Australian rules football/cricket ... • Three-court indoor sports stadium; • Eight outdoor netball

Gayview ParkMaster Plan

This report has been prepared by:

ROSS Planning Pty Ltd ABN 32 508 029 959 Upper floor, 63 Bay Terrace Wynnum QLD 4178

PO Box 5660 Manly QLD 4179

Telephone: (07) 3901 0730 Fax: (07) 3893 0593

© 2016 ROSS Planning Pty Ltd

This document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the terms of engagement for the commissions. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited.

recreationopen spaceand sportspecialists

Version control:Version Date Document Author Reviewer Recipient

1 27.01.16 Draft (without layout and QS)

DC NC

2 29.03.16 Draft (with sketch layout)

DC NC

3 11.04.16 Final draft DC NC

4 01.08.16 Final DC NC

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Executive summary .......................................................................................................................... 4

Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... 4

Existing situation ............................................................................................................................... 4

Demand for upgrade .......................................................................................................................... 4

Design directions ............................................................................................................................... 5

Background.......................................................................................................................................... 6

Introduction and purpose ................................................................................................................. 6

What is a master plan? ..................................................................................................................... 6

Project methodology ......................................................................................................................... 7

Literature review ................................................................................................................................ 8

Demographic considerations .......................................................................................................... 10

Trends considerations ....................................................................................................................... 11

Existing situation ............................................................................................................................. 13

Site description .................................................................................................................................. 13

Planning considerations ................................................................................................................... 13

Site elements ...................................................................................................................................... 14

Facility snapshot ................................................................................................................................ 15

Demand analysis ................................................................................................................................ 18

Consultation summary...................................................................................................................... 18

Catchment considerations .............................................................................................................. 22

Design considerations ..................................................................................................................... 23

Opportunities and constraints ....................................................................................................... 23

Master plan .......................................................................................................................................... 28

Vision ..................................................................................................................................................... 28

Facility design ..................................................................................................................................... 30

Staged implementation and indicative costing ........................................................................ 34

Table of contents

The Wodonga Sporting Precinct Master Planning Project was supported by the Victorian Government.


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Executive summary

Introduction

Gayview Park is currently Wodonga’s home of softball and baseball. The park also includes a well-used path system that links to the wider network and a small playground area. Mature trees and shrub plantings form an attractive border at the park’s edge. Given the council’s need for additional playing fields to meet demand in field-based sports, opportunity exists to reconsider the existing layout and uses of Gayview Park.

Existing situation

The 3.95ha site is located toward the western edge of Wodonga and is a council-owned facility zoned Public Park and Recreation. While the park ‘faces’ Serpentine Ave, it also has links to Jamieson Crt and Emerald Ave.

The park is flat, has stands of mature trees around much of the perimeter and is embellished for softball and baseball purposes.

Existing embellishments include: • Diamond with skinned running tracks; • Backnet (with extensions along first

and third base); • Dugouts; • Pavilion; • Amenities building; • Storage container; • Walk/cycle path loop with links to the

wider network; • Overflow field space; • Small playground; and, • Timber rail and colourbond perimeter

fencing.

Demand for upgrade

Demand for upgrades to the park has been established through consultation with the council and user groups, and from consideration of existing opportunities. Key directions include: • Sport

- Growth in softball and baseball; and,

- Existing demand for additional field space for other field-based sports (particularly football [soccer]).

• Recreation - Planned feature play opportunities

in nearby Birallee Park; and, - Opportunities to expand the range

of recreation options within the park.

• Common areas - No formalised off-street car

parking opportunities.

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Design directions

The proposed master plan is located within Section 6.

The vision for Gayview Park is:

“To provide a quality home for baseball and softball, field space for overflow training and an attractive recreation setting for locals and visitors.”

Proposed ultimate embellishment for the park includes: • Sporting opportunities

- Diamond with skinned running tracks, dugouts and fencing lit to training standard;

- Lit batting cage; - Lit field space for training for

alternate sports; and, - Additional turfed area for overflow

training. • Recreation opportunities

- Upgraded recreation node with learn-to-ride bike activity area.

• Common areas - Off-road formal car park areas

(approximately 15 bays total); and, - Extended pavilion with covered

viewing area.


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Background

Introduction and purpose

In late 2015, Wodonga Council engaged ROSS Planning to develop a master plan for Gayview Park (the park). The park is located on the western side of the city and is Wodonga’s home of softball and baseball.

The aim of the master plan is to provide a realistic and achievable vision for the park, where the needs and requirements of the user groups, community and the council are established and balanced. Importantly, the project will require a staged approach to development that provides for smooth implementation limiting impact on users. Ultimately, the report will guide community, council and user group decision-making and resource allocation.

Through site analysis, background research and consultation, the project aims to provide optimal use of the park for sport and recreation groups and the wider community.

What is a master plan?

A master plan provides a vision for a site, identifying what it should look like and how it should function into the future. It establishes a strong and consistent direction, providing a framework for ongoing improvement. It considers the interrelationship between: • Current character and functionality of

the landscape; • Public expectations and needs; • Emerging issues and trends; and, • The realities of the economic, social,

environmental and legislative context of the time.

The result is a plan that balances needs across a range of often conflicting interests.

The master plan does not suggest that all elements of the plan should proceed immediately, or that the council nor the user groups should be responsible for all capital costs in respect of those items that are progressed. It is important to note that the intent of the master plan is to provide a framework for future development of the park over an extended time period so that ad hoc improvements are avoided and community use and long-term viability are maximised. The master plan should be regularly monitored to ensure the outcomes continue to meet community needs in the best possible way.

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Project methodology

The methodology used to develop the master plan comprised the following stages:

Stage 1 - Preliminaries • Inception meeting • Review of relevant reports, plans,

policies and other documents • Review of the demographic profile of

the community including consideration of population growth projections

Stage 2 - Site assessment • Detailed site assessment • Discussions with council officers • Discussions with user groups

Stage 3 - Developing directions • Analysis of identified issues, ideas,

needs and opportunities

Stage 4 - Draft concept master plan • Preparation of draft master plan report • Review of draft master plan by the

council • Public review

Stage 5 - Review and finalisation • Review of feedback on draft master

plan report • Agreed amendments to the master

plan report • Council endorsement


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Wodonga Council Plan 2013-2014 to 2016-2017

The Council Plan is the key document leading council delivery over a four-year period. It is underpinned by the council’s vision: our people, our city, our future.

Strategic objectives with direct relevance to the development of this master plan fall under the ‘our people’ key area and include: • Offer diverse and accessible

recreation, leisure and sporting opportunities - Commence works on Baranduda

Fields sporting precinct (commence by 2017);

- Continue to implement the recreation strategy actions; and,

- Develop a strategy which determines the future sporting hubs in the city.

These key directions have been closely considered throughout the development of the master plan.

Sport and Recreation Plan 2014 to 2040

The Sport and Recreation Plan was developed to provide a program for the development of organised sport in the city over a five-year period. Importantly, the plan advocates for both investment in existing facilities and for careful planning and implementation to meet future demand.

The plan notes, that for the sports currently active at Gayview Park, predicted demand by 2031 includes: • Baseball and softball

- A club-level two diamond facility; and,

• It is also interesting to note that the plan identifies a need for an additional three fields and a regional centre for football (soccer). This supports the need for additional field training space within Wodonga.

The Sport and Recreation Plan also provides comment on each of the existing individual facilities. For Gayview Park, the following recommendations have been made: • Installation of floodlighting and

batting cage to support training; • Consider options for facility multi-

use (for example, Auskick and junior cricket);

• Support the provision of a skinned diamond;

• Relocation of baseball and softball to Baranduda Fields;

• Consider reconfiguring Gayview Park to a junior training venue for alternate sports; and,

• Investigate opportunities for enhanced use by nearby schools.

Literature review

In order to present a clear picture of the background issues impacting on the potential upgrade and development of the park, a literature review has been undertaken. A detailed summary of each document reviewed is included below, while key impacts for the development of the master plan are highlighted in the summary breakout box.

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Literature review - summary

When considered together, the literature review highlights a number of key considerations: • Council acknowledges the

importance of sport and recreation facilities for the community.

• Council highlights the need to review current uses and facility layout and future opportunities at Gayview Park.

• Proposed softball/baseball development at Baranduda Fields is likely to be 11 to 25 years away.

Proposed Baranduda Fields sporting complex

While development at Baranduda Fields is not expected to commence before 2017, potential impacts on the use of Gayview Park have been considered.

Proposed key short-term facility development includes: • Two Australian rules football/cricket

fields (potentially one with synthetic surface);

• Four tennis courts; • Two outdoor netball courts (in

conjunction with Australian rules football field development);

• Synthetic athletics facility; and, • Criterium cycling circuit.

None of these developments are expected to impact on current uses at Gayview Park.

Ultimate development at Baranduda Fields includes: • Six Australian rules football/cricket

grounds (one with synthetic surface); • Twelve tennis courts; • Three-court indoor sports stadium; • Eight outdoor netball courts (in total); • Synthetic athletics facility; • Two baseball/softball diamonds with

pavilion; • Criterium cycling circuit; • Two hockey pitches; • Four soccer fields; • Three rugby fields; and, • Four-green lawn bowls facility.

The development of a two-diamond facility will likely attract the existing users from Gayview Park. However, with these works planned for the medium-term (11 to 25 years), Gayview Park will remain as the home for softball and baseball in Wodonga for some time (reflecting the importance of the master planning process).


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Demographic considerations - implications

In terms of impacts for the future development of Gayview Park, these demographic considerations suggest: • A range of sport and recreation opportunities that are attractive across the ages

should continue to be made available at the park (for example, both formal sport and passive recreation activities); and,

• With an increasing population base, sports club memberships can, at least, be maintained (although clubs should be looking to achieve increases).

Demographic considerations

In order to understand the make-up for the park ‘catchment’, a snapshot of existing and future population and demographic characteristics has been undertaken. With Gayview Park providing the only baseball and softball facilities in Wodonga, population characteristics for the entire council area have been the focus where possible. It is acknowledged that some participants will come from outside this catchment. However, core participation is expected to come from within the council boundaries.

Analysis of these characteristics1 reveals: • A predicted population of 40,461 for 2016 with significant population increases of

more than 17,000 by 2036; • Interestingly, Wodonga is not considered to be an aging city (with age cohort

structures between 2011 and 2031 not expected to change markedly); • Higher proportion of young people aged 34 years and under (49.9 per cent)

compared with regional Victoria (41.9 per cent); • Lower proportion of older people aged 50 years and above (29.9 per cent) compared

with regional Victoria (38 per cent); • More than 900 households without a motor vehicle; and, • Almost 3000 households without internet connection.

1 id, the population experts (2015)

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Trends considerationsFormal sport trendsField and court quality

Facility providers face an increasing trend to develop and re-develop sporting fields and courts to a higher level in order to increase carrying capacity (and this is one of the underlying principles behind the need to plan for Gayview Park). Upgrades, such as lighting and field irrigation, allow training and competition times to be extended and increases the ability of turf playing fields to cope with the resulting wear and tear. Further, to achieve ongoing field quality, fields need ‘rest periods’ (of up to four weeks) where necessary maintenance can be undertaken.

However, the replacement of turf fields with synthetic fields can significantly increase carrying capacity by limiting maintenance-required field down time. A number of councils and facility providers are moving toward the provision of synthetic fields (particularly for football [soccer] where a number of internationally certified surfaces are available).

While the potential for a synthetic field was considered for Gayview Park, there are a limited number of synthetic installations for softball and baseball in Australia to-date. Additionally, the need to ensure the facility remains available for mutli-use and can be easily converted for alternate uses once development at Baranduda Fields has been achieved, has resulted in a preference to retain the turf fields in the short to medium-term.

Field sharing

With many sports extending the lengths of pre-season and season fixtures, sharing of field space is becoming difficult. While providers strive to maximise the use of community resources (and state governments espouse field sharing), the reality is that shared use of ancillary facilities (for example, clubhouses and carparks) rather than fields may be more appropriate.

Field sharing is an established practice at Gayview Park, with the sports of softball and baseball both conducted. Further use has been proposed through the development of lights that provide for evening use of the turfed outfield for training.

Volunteer sport organisations

The rate of volunteering in sport and recreation clubs has been declining for many years. Often, the responsibility for running clubs falls to one or two key personnel. To address this issue, there is a move toward amalgamations, with multi-sport clubs becoming more common. In other cases, organisations may become aligned to larger licensed clubs that take over some or all of the volunteers’ roles as well as asset management responsibilities.

Some ‘professionalisation’ of clubs is also likely to take place with volunteer positions attracting a basic remuneration. The commercial sector will also displace some clubs by offering competitions that allow participants to compete without any requirements to undertake other duties (for example, umpiring or canteen duty).


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Passive recreation trendsPark design

The design of a park is critical in ensuring that it is successfully utilised by the community. Public open spaces should include: • Attractive and safe open areas with

good lighting, seating, shade, shelters and areas for play;

• Well-lit, level and shaded walk/cycleways that provide links to open space, community, commercial areas, and public transport (where available);

• Well-designed and landscaped internal roads, including safe pedestrian road crossings and traffic management devices; and,

• Range of infrastructure that supports participation by people with disabilities, including the provision of ramps, accessible amenities and safe pedestrian crossings.

Creating the ‘right’ park setting is essential to the community’s use of it for both active and passive recreation.

Numerous studies highlight the need for trails linking residential areas with parks and other types of open spaces. Walking has become the preferred physical activity for both men and women. Therefore, there is a need for path systems that provide good connectivity between places of activity, aesthetic appeal, safety and convenience.

Visits to Gayview Park have highlighted the large number of residents that use the existing path network as a means of recreation and also as links for walking and riding to nearby schools and shopping centres.

Summary

So what do the trends mean for the master planning of Gayview Park? As it was developed, the master plan has: • Ensured the provision of suitable areas

to attract a range of sporting users; • Ensured opportunities for shared-use

of key ancillary facilities; • Considered low-cost recreation

experiences potentially being developed within the park so that it has broad appeal;

• Created naturally and artificially shaded areas; and,

• Catered for all age groups and considered the needs of the aged and less physically mobile.

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Gayview ParkMaster PlanExisting situation

Site description

Gayview Park is located on the western side of the city in a residential area (as depicted in the context map below).

The 3.95ha park (Lot 1 on LP121704, Lot 1 on LP117908 and Lot 1 on NP123646) is council-owned and managed. It is flat and is currently home to regular softball and baseball use.

Planning considerationsWodonga Council Planning SchemePublic Park and Recreation Zone

Gayview Park is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ).

The objectives of this zone are to: • Recognise areas for public recreation

and open space; • Protect and conserve areas of

significance where appropriate; and, • Provide for commercial uses where

appropriate. For the outdoor sport and recreation developments included in the master plan, a permit (other than necessary building permits) is not likely to be required as identified in 36.02-1 (informal outdoor recreation, outdoor sports ground).

Gayview ParkParks and open spacesEducation facilitiesShopping centres

GAYVIEW PARK

Lawrence Street

Emera

ld A

venue

Serp

enti

ne A

venu

e

CBD 2.7km


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Site elementsSite characteristics

The southern portion of the site has a quality turf surface (the softball/baseball outfield). The northern side of the park has a rectangular turf area that was previously a second diamond but is currently unused. The western side of the park includes a small recreation node and tree plantings. The eastern and central sections of the park are well embellished with softball/baseball-related infrastructure.

Buildings and improvements

Gayview Park has a range of embellishments (primarily for softball/baseball purposes): • Pavilion with awning; • Diamond with skinned running tracks; • Backnet (with extensions along first

and third base); • Dugouts (for each team and officials); • Amenities building; • Storage container; • Walk/cycle path loop with links to the

wider network; • Small playground and picnic table; and, • Timber rail and colorbond perimeter

fencing.

Lighting

The diamond and outfield are lit for baseball/softball club training purposes. The outfield (and immediate surrounds) lighting is also suitable for other field sports training.

Parking

There is no formal off-street car parking available at Gayview Park. During sport training and matches, patrons park along Serpentine Ave. For events that attract more significant numbers, cars are allowed to park on the turfed area in the north-east corner of the park.

Access, linkages and connectivityEntry and access

Inappropriate vehicle access is prevented by the timber rail fences located along Serpentine Ave and the end of the Jamieson Crt cul-de-sac. The remainder

of the park is also fenced (predominantly by colorbond fencing) at the rear of residential properties.

Linkages and connectivity

One of the features of Gayview Park is the links it forms with nearby key community facilities and residential areas. Additionally, the internal pedestrian path loop provides a quality off-road recreation option that appears heavily used.

At the southern end of the park, a path links through to Emerald Ave (Wodonga Middle Years College and Birallee Park). Links also extend from the western side to Belvoir Special School (and the shopping centre beyond) and through to Conlan Circuit (although this link is currently only a poorly maintained grass track). A path continues to the northern side of the park linking with the surrounding residential area via Cyrilla Crt.

Shade

Mature trees provide shaded areas around the perimeter of the park (and along a significant portion of the path network). Large eucalypts also provide additional areas of shade in the central section of the park.

A small amount of spectator shade is provided by the awning on the western side of the pavilion looking across the diamond.

Signage

A quality park sign is located at the ‘front’ of the park on Serpentine Ave. Secondary signs are located at the end of the cul-de-sac on Jamieson Crt and at the entrance from Emerald Ave.

As a flat park with relatively clear sightlines, there is little need for internal signage.

Signage at the intersections of Serpentine Ave and Lawrence St, and Serpentine and Emerald avenues provides directional guidance for visitors to the park.

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Facility snapshot

Existing facilities

A. Park access points

1. Unused turf field (former second diamond)

2. Overflow car parking area

3. Amenities

4. Storage container

5. Single-storey pavilion and awning

6. Skinned diamond (three dugouts and backnet)

7. Irrigated outfield

8. Play and picnic node

1

8

Emerald Avenue

Serpentine Avenue

Jamieson

Court

A

A

A

A

A

23

4

56

7


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Sporting facilities

Gayview Park provides a range of embellishments designed to facilitate softball and baseball training and matches. The facilities include: • Diamond with skinned running tracks and

synthetic pitcher’s mound; • Player and officials dugouts; • Backnet; • Single-storey pavilion with covered viewing

area; • Storage container; and, • Amenities.

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Recreation elements

While there are currently limited recreation facilities in Gayview Park, they do appear well-used: • Path loop with links to the wider network. • Simple play node with climb, slide and swing

set. • Picnic table (in poor condition).


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Demand analysis

Consultation summary

Council

Potential opportunities and issues for consideration were discussed with a number of council officers:

Issues • Facility has been developed for

softball/baseball in a somewhat ad hoc fashion.

• Second diamond was removed given regular complaints from adjoining residents regarding damage from balls entering properties.

Opportunities • With a number of sporting clubs within

the city seeking additional field space (particularly for training), opportunity exists for expanded use of Gayview Park.

• Recent lighting development at the park provides additional training opportunities for softball, baseball and other field sports.

• Upcoming relocation of the Wodonga District Girl Guides from the facility adjoining the park (to the west) on Jamieson Crt will provide opportunity to redevelop the site for men’s shed activities.

• Clubs are supportive of a future move to a dedicated two-diamond facility at Baranduda Fields.

In 2015, the council undertook asset management assessments across the asset network. The following points summarise key maintenance requirements noted for Gayview Park: • Replace cracked pavements - $4000 • Re-paint the amenities block - $1400 • Repair diamond backnets - $850

Demand for development at Gayview Park has been established through consultation with the council and user groups; review of consultation outcomes from the recently developed Sport and Recreation Plan; combined with an analysis of existing opportunities.

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Existing user groupsWarriors Baseball and Softball Club

Membership considerations • Recent growth in both sports - baseball

now has 30 members and softball 95 members.

• Particularly strong growth in junior softball playing ranks.

Facility usage • Softball - training is conducted three

times each week during the summer sporting season. No softball fixtures are conducted at Gayview Park as the association is based at the multi-diamond facility at Jelbart Park, Albury.

• Baseball - matches are conducted on Sundays throughout the winter sporting season. Training was previously conducted at Emerald Oval (Birallee Park) rather than Gayview Park given the lack of lighting and shortened daylight hours during winter. However, the recent lighting installation will see training relocated to Gayview Park.

Development considerations • The club enjoys the smaller

intimate ‘feel’ of the one diamond facility, however additional facility advancements are required to ensure ongoing club growth.

• Development of playing standard lighting would allow the opportunity for year-round matches (for example, pre-season and feature matches). Additionally, this would facilitate training under lights (up to three times each week) during the winter sporting season.

• The construction of a lit batting cage would help ensure suitable facilities for a club-level venue. Discussions with Dederang Cricket Club officials suggest that a dual-use cricket practice net/batting cage may be possible.

• There is currently no social (clubroom) area within the pavilion. Preference is for an extension on the southern end of the building (with continuation of the covered viewing area).

• If the former diamond field area was re-established as a turf playing field, it would be used as an additional training area.

• The club would be pleased for additional use of the outfield for sports such as Auskick and football (soccer) training. Any future linemarking required for use of this area would also be appropriate.


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Secondary school sport - Upper Hume

Facility usage • Gayview Park hosts two full days of

interschool baseball/softball each year.

Development considerations • The central location of the park is

ideal, the amenities are new and there is suitable covered space for players and officials.

• The facility requires additional covered viewing areas for spectators and needs to be linemarked more regularly.

• If it was more widely promoted that Wodonga had a quality softball/baseball facility, it may be easier to facilitate enhanced inclusion of these two sports within local schools.

Middle Years College - Felltimber

Facility usage • The college conducts curriculum-based

T-ball and softball twice a year at the park.

Development considerations • The facilities work very well for the

college. • The only concern is the nearby

residents that wander through the park when it is being used.

Potential user groupsMurray United Football Club (juniors)

Membership considerations • The club fields eight sides from under

12 to seniors. • The inclusion of football for females

would see an additional three teams added to the club.

Facility usage considerations • Currently, the club splits training

between La Trobe University and Kelly Park during the winter sporting season. Additional fields are required to facilitate training where the season crosses over with the traditional summer sporting season.

Development considerations • Ideally, the club would like to base

under 12 and under 13 training in the softball/baseball outfield at Gayview Park (if it were to be suitably lit).

• If the equivalent space of a full-size pitch was established, it would be split into halves to facilitate training for the two teams.

• Training would be conducted up to three evenings each week (alternating with softball and baseball requirements) and throughout much of the year.

• If practical, a small shelter developed on the outside of the softball/baseball outfield (and near to the football training areas) would provide a focal point for football.

The Girl Guides site and adjoining access to Conlan Circuit

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Dederang Cricket Club1

• The club is keen to contribute to the development of a quality two-net practice facility at Gayview Park (that was designed to also be suitable as a softball/baseball batting cage).

• The proposed facility would be used one afternoon/early evening each week during the summer sporting season.

Wodonga Men’s Shed • While the proposed relocation of the

Wodonga Men’s Shed to the Wodonga District Girl Guides site sits outside the park area, it is important to consider potential impacts on the park.

• Representatives of the men’s shed have expressed a desire to expand the Girl Guides site toward the south-east to accommodate their requirements. This does not impact on Gayview Park as long as clear and inviting access from the park to Conlan Circuit is retained.

1 However, it was determined that future development of cricket-related infrastructure was not a preferred direction for the park


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Catchment considerationsSport

As identified in the Sport and Recreation Plan 2014 to 2040, there is currently an under-supply of playing fields and courts available to the Wodonga community. While sports facility development at Baranduda Fields may ultimately prove attractive to the existing tenant club at Gayview Park (Warriors Baseball and Softball Club), this work is still many years away. Further, introducing additional field sports within the park will further embed the facility as a multi-use facility.

Recreation

The site context map on page 7 highlights the limited range of parks servicing the residential area surrounding Gayview Park.

A proposed central recreation node within Birallee Park (to the south) is likely to become the key feature play and picnic node for the area. Bill Black Park to the west of Gayview Park is a small uninviting local park with limited play opportunities. Marimba Park (a linear park) links Lawrence St and Emerald Ave to the east of Gayview Park. It contains a basic play node under a stand of mature trees.

Given the proposed and existing recreation opportunities in the immediate area, the council is encouraged to provide alternate recreation opportunities (for example, bike activity track and off-leash dog park) to complement an updated play and picnic node.

Demand - summary • Opportunity exists for enhanced

informal physical activity. • Much of the sporting infrastructure

is in good condition, while the recreation facilities are in need of updating.

• Opportunity exists to expand the range of formal users by developing lit training field space in the diamond outfield and an additional unlit training area to the north of the diamond.

The play node in Marimba park

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Gayview ParkMaster PlanDesign considerations

Opportunities and constraints

Key opportunities and constraints for Gayview Park are summarised below and provide much of the direction for the designs.

Issue Opportunities/constraintsDesired outcomes/design drivers

Movement

Entry

• Site is easily accessed off both Lawrence St and Emerald Ave (including signage provision).

• As a local-level facility, the park has an appropriate entry statement on Serpentine Ave.

• Continue to maintain the existing naming signage.

Parking

• On-street parking in Serpentine Ave (and adjoining streets).

• No formalised off-street car parks. • Opportunity for a mix of formal and

overflow car parking areas.

• Construct a small sealed car park within the park accessed off Serpentine Ave (toward the southern end of the park).

• Construct an overflow car parking area in the north-east corner of the park with formal ingress and egress points off Serpentine Ave.


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Pedestrian network

• Extensive path system that links to the wider network.

• Construct a small section of path (in association with the new sealed car park) between the two paths near Serpentine Ave to create an internal loop.

• Widen the path near the amenities building to ensure appropriate pedestrian access in this area.

• Construct a path along the access easement between Gayview Park and Conlan Circuit. Ensure that any proposed changes to the existing Girl Guides area (likely development for men’s shed) does not encroach on the link between the park and this easement. It is important that an open funnel-shaped entrance is retained.

Fencing

• Existing timber rail fencing is complementary and functional.

• Sheet metal fencing around the remainder of the park is unattractive.

• Investigate opportunities to reduce the visual impact of the sheet metal perimeter fencing.

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Buildings and structures

Pavilion

• Well-located facility offering some views across the diamond.

• Contains areas for storage and canteen/servery but no club function/social space.

• Extend the pavilion and covered awning to the south. (Consider moving the third base dugout slightly further south to allow unrestricted views across the diamond from the extended covered area.)

Amenities • Building is in good condition. • Building is well-located near the

diamond and on the internal path.

Container

• Containers are unattractive and not the preferred method of storage in public parks.

• Construct a 6m x 3m storage shed in the vicinity of the existing storage container (along the first base safety fence).


26

Issue Opportunities/constraints Desired outcomes/design drivers

Open space

Community-level

• Gayview Park is likely to remain the only softball/baseball facility in Wodonga in the short to medium-term. However, rather than be upgraded to a district or regional-level facility, it should be retained as an attractive local-level sports facility.

• Ensure development of the park addresses the needs and resources of user groups (and the council) but reflects planned development at Baranduda Fields.

Sports facilities

• Lighting - Infield and outfield lighting

installation will allow for softball and baseball training.

• Backnet - Appears well-constructed and in

good condition. • Dugouts

- Simple but functional structures. • Batting cage

- It is a common occurrence (generally an expectation) that baseball/softball facilities include a batting cage to allow for specialised practice and match warm-ups.

• Opportunity exists to attract additional field-based sports to the park. The turfed softball/baseball outfield and the turf area to the north of the diamond are both under-utilised.

• Ongoing maintenance of the backnet is required to ensure longevity.

• When the pavilion is extended, the dugout on third base should be relocated to ensure open viewing opportunities from the covered awning area.

• Construct a lit batting cage within the park.

• When the lighting project is undertaken, ensure the posts and light fittings are located to allow maximal use of the lit turf outfield for additional sports.

• Undertake minor upgrades of the turf area to the north of the diamond to facilitate overflow training and to attract additional sports training (particularly juniors).

Recreation spaces

• Limited range of recreation opportunities in surrounding residential areas.

• Existing play and picnic facilities are in poor condition.

• Develop a recreation node with modern play options, shaded picnic node, bike activity track and off-leash dog area.

Landscaping

• Limited landscaping currently exists across the park.

• Opportunities exist to explore the creation of wildlife corridors connecting to the broader landscape.

• Existing large trees and native planting will be used as a framework for landscaping and beautification works.

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Master plan

The master plan has been developed by considering all consultation, appropriate strategic contexts and previous research. Overall, it provides an ideal opportunity to significantly enhance the capacity of the facility to meet the needs of the sporting community and also the recreation needs of nearby residents and visitors.

The master plan sits well within the existing open space network - providing for local residents and complementing the existing facilities. It integrates a number of the existing site features with a limited range of new elements and embellishments. The provision of quality recreation facilities and a more attractive environment will encourage use from the non-sporting community and with the range of facilities and programs available, all age groups can find activities to enjoy.

The Gayview Park Master Plan can be found on the following pages. The master plan includes an overall layout and perspective illustrations.

Vision

The vision for Gayview Park is:

“To provide a quality home for baseball and softball, field space for overflow training and an attractive recreation setting for locals and visitors.”

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Facility design

The master plan shows the overall layout of the proposed design and facilities. The table below depicts the proposed developments and rationale for individual sport and common areas.

ElementMaster plan reference

Description Rationale

Recreation opportunities

Recrea-tion node

11 • Develop a play node with modern play options, shaded picnic node and bike activity track.

• To build upon an already popular recreation park.

• To ensure a range of informal recreation opportunities are available for locals and visitors.

• To be well located in an area with clear sightlines from the main sporting areas.

Walk/cycle paths

2 6

14

• Construct a small section of path (in association with the new sealed car park) between the two paths near Serpentine Ave to create an internal loop.

• Widen the path near the amenities building to ensure appropriate pedestrian access in this area.

• Construct a path along the access easement (Victorian Department of Education and Training land) between the park and Conlan Circuit. Ensure that any proposed changes to the future men’s shed area does not encroach on the link between the park and this easement. It is important that an open funnel-shaped entrance is retained.

• To ensure a range of walking and cycling opportunities are available.

Sporting opportunities

Baseball/softball

4 n/a

8 3 3

• Concrete the backnet and dugout surrounds.

• Ongoing maintenance of the backnet is required.

• Construct a lit batting cage within the park.

• Extend the pavilion and covered awning to the south.

• When the pavilion is extended, the dugout on third base should be relocated.

• To provide dry and safe areas for walking.

• To ensure longevity of this important asset.

• To provide facilities for training and warm up.

• To provide an area for club meetings and social activities.

• To ensure open viewing opportunities from the covered awning area.

Sports lighting

9, 10 • Training standard sports lighting has recently been installed.

• To provide opportunities for evening training (to return baseball training from Emerald Oval to Gayview Park).

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Common areas

Entries n/a • Continue to maintain the existing naming signage.

• To ensure a quality entry for park visitors.

Car parking

2 1

• Construct a small sealed car park (15 bays) within the park accessed off Serpentine Ave (toward the southern end of the park).

• Construct an overflow car parking area in the north-east corner of the park with formal ingress and egress points off Serpentine Ave.

• To provide adequate car parking (particularly to limit congestion during peak times for formal sporting user groups).

Fencing12 • Investigate opportunities to reduce

the visual impact of the sheet metal perimeter fencing.

• To ensure an attractive park boundary is provided.

Storage

7 • Construct a 6m x 3m storage shed in the vicinity of the existing storage container (along the first base safety fence).

• Remove the storage container.

• To ensure suitable storage opportunities exist.

Land-scaping

11 • Landscape key gathering areas within the recreation node.

• Investigate the creation of wildlife corridors connecting to the broader landscape.

• To provide suitable shade for spectators and park visitors.

• To provide habitat and to beautify the park.



Training field space

5 • Undertake minor upgrades of the turf area to the north of the diamond to facilitate overflow training and to attract additional sports training (particularly juniors).

• To maximise opportunities for sports training at the park (without impacting existing uses).


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Gayview Park - Concept layout

1. Overflow unsealed car parking area

2. Sealed car park (and extended path loop)

3. Future pavilion and awning extension (and relocate the third base dugout to suit)

4. Concrete backnet and dugout surrounds

5. Overflow training area (unlit)

6. Create an appropriate path past the amenities building

7. 6m x 3m storage shed (remove the storage container)

8. Batting cage (lit)

9. Quality diamond with training standard lighting for softball/ baseball

10. Softball/baseball outfield lit. Also available for additional field sports training

11. Play node (with picnic shelters and simple bike activity track)

12. Investigate options to reduce the visual impact of the sheet metal perimeter fencing

13. Future men’s shed extension

14. Path extension to Conlan Circuit (Department of Education and Training land)

N

Existing sports lighting

New sports lighting

13

14

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2

9

10

5

6

4

311

8

12

1

7


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Staged implementation and indicative costing

The cost of the development of the master plan is beyond the council’s and the community’s ability to fund in the short-term. Thus, this section provides staged budgeting. The information provided is designed as a flexible guide - changes in user priorities or earlier opportunities for funding may alter staging. The adjoining table summarises indicative costs (and do not include legal fees or GST).

Stage 1 (short-term) • Develop a play node, shaded picnic node and bike activity track • Widen the path near the amenities building • Construct a lit batting cage • Undertake minor upgrades of the turf area in the overflow training area • Construct a 6m x 3m storage shed (remove the storage container)

Stage 2 (medium to long-term) • Construct a small sealed car park (15 bays) • Construct an overflow car parking area • Construct a small section of path (in association with the new sealed car park)

between the two paths near Serpentine Ave to create an internal loop • Construct a path along the access easement between the park and Conlan Circuit • Extend the pavilion and covered awning to the south (relocate the third base

dugout) • Concrete backnet and dugout surrounds • Investigate opportunities to reduce the visual impact of the sheet metal perimeter

fencing • Landscape key gathering areas within the recreation node

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Stage Area/sport Description Cost

1

Recreation Develop play node, picnic node and bike activity track

115,000

Recreation Widen the path near the amenities building

2000

Softball/baseball Construct a lit batting cage 17,000

Sports Overflow training field minor turf upgrades

5000

Storage Construct a 6m x 3m storage shed 16,000Stage 1 Sub-total (with rounding) 155,000

2

Car park Construct sealed car park (15 bays) 58,000Car park Construct overflow car park 11,000Recreation Construct path (to make loop) 10,000Recreation Construct link to Conlan Circuit 34,000Pavilion Extend the pavilion and awning 75,000Softball/baseball Concrete backnet and dugout surrounds 8000Landscaping Investigate fence impact options not costedLandscaping Landscape key gathering areas 6000Stage 2 Sub-total (with rounding) 202,000

Sub-total 357,000Contingency and sundry site works (10%) 35,700

Sub-total 392,700Escalation (2%) 7900

TOTAL (exc GST) 400,600

Documents

Gayview Park Master Plan · ROSS Planning Pty Ltd . ABN 32 508 029 959 ... • Six Australian rules football/cricket ... • Three-court indoor sports stadium; • Eight outdoor netball