By Kath Gannaway
Work on the Warburton Community Recreation Precinct is set to commence next year following approval of the planning application for stage one by Yarra Ranges Council.
Council committed $2.8 million to stage one of the project which is at detailed design stage and includes a water play splash pad, junior playground, rain garden, picnic facilities and a toilet block.
The precinct is adjacent to the Warburton Holiday Park and takes in the former outdoor swimming pool site.
Mayor Len Cox said the planning decision provided more certainty about committing to timelines to deliver the project for the community.
The council is continuing to advocate for funding for the second stage of the project.
“The community has been very involved in the community consultation process and has contributed funding to make this project a reality, including The Warburton Sports Committee and Warburton Advancement League” Cr Cox said.
He said the community had wanted to see play opportunities for young and older children, water play activities and a multi-purpose outdoor sports court.
O’Shannassy Ward Cr Jim Child also welcomed the approval which paves the way to seeing the precinct move forward and provide a family-friendly attraction to the area.
“I feel what it gives us is another attraction where we can have the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination with keen cyclists who bring their families to Warburton and have another great asset where all members of the family can enjoy their visit along with the Warburton to Lilydale Rail Trail and the many other things around Warburton that people can enjoy,” he said.
Cr Child also praised the great support from the Warburton Advancement League who he said had contributed $20,000 towards the playground equipment and which he said supports the council to leverage funds for the second stage.
Cr Cox said council is currently seeking funding for stage two from the State and Federal Government which would complete the entire project.
“We are hoping to confirm funding for stage two this year to allow the detailed design to continue to the next phase,” he said.
Council has applied for $1.45 million from the Growing Suburbs Fund and could potentially receive $800,000 through SRV’s Community Sport Infrastructure Fund Program.
Council has also requested $1.7 million from the Federal Government’s Regional Growth Fund.
