Community members are encouraged to give feedback on a draft concept plan detailing proposed improvements to Morena Street Reserve in Highton.
Running from Morena Street to Old Flour Mill Road, this steeply sloping site has superb views, limited road frontage and accessibility. It has the footprint of an existing trail and drainage basin in the northern area.
The five-hectare reserve is a complex site with a steep slope and environmental and water management factors to consider. We’re proposing the retention of existing wetlands and $2.2 million in works to this undeveloped open space over three years:
- 2.5-metre-wide concrete pedestrian paths to increase accessibility
- rock lined and grass channels to manage water flows
- grass kickabout space
- new trees, native vegetation and garden beds
- small play space and
- seating overlooking the gully.
Nearly 120 community members responded to public consultation last year, telling us that accessible paths, nature play, canopy trees and picnic settings/park furniture topped their priorities list for the reserve.
Respondents, who mostly used the space to walk or exercise the dog, revealed a preference to enhance the natural habitat and to further improve the drainage line and wetlands including rock lined and grass channels.
Feedback closes on 5:00pm on Monday 11 December 2023, with detailed design and construction anticipated next year.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
The reserve is a much-loved space for Highton residents to visit.
This is an opportunity to maximise the potential of Morena Street Reserve’s stunning views across the Barwon River, central Geelong and Corio Bay and its natural environment.
Please tell us if the draft concept plan has captured the community’s sentiments to enhance the reserve’s natural elements while providing good pedestrian connections.
Councillor Ron Nelson – Kardinia Ward
The Morena Street Reserve is a unique, undeveloped and complex site with an informal trail, that was well-utilised by residents.
The community’s insights are a vital part to reaching the full potential of the site and the data collected from this consultation will be taken into account for the finalised concept plan.
