Big changes for small parks

SOME small parks around Ballarat could be seeing upgrades following the release of findings from a City of Ballarat survey on improving the public spaces.

In total, 12 open spaces were identified, with works aiming to improve attractiveness, usability, and natural shade as well as increases to pedestrian access.

The survey identified five reserves which are ready for upgrades with widespread support for the proposed changes.

This includes parks at College Street, Cuthberts Road, Hearn Reserve, Horsham Reserve, and Vale Street.

Construction will begin at the locations in mid-to-late-2023.

Another five reserves at Inkerman Gully, Glenvale Road, Peel Street, Webb Street and Shaw Street are having changes considered after receiving mixed feedback.

A final two locations, Orchard Estate and Hermitage Avenue, require additional time and work following low support for improvements from the community and changes to those reserves could be left until next financial year.

A City of Ballarat spokesperson said the municipality was thankful for residents’ contributions to these park designs.

“It was wonderful to see more than 150 individuals take part in the first round of this program and contribute to the design of their local parks,” the spokesperson said.

“[The City is] looking forward to seeing valuable improvements made to these spaces across the City of Ballarat for families to enjoy into the future.”