DRYSDALE CLIFTON SPRINGS CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY HUB SUB-REGIONAL SPORTS PRECINCT MASTER PLAN

Transcription

1 DRYSDALE CLIFTON SPRINGS CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY HUB SUB-REGIONAL SPORTS PRECINCT MASTER PLAN APRIL 2011

2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City of Greater Geelong is committed to the development of a sub-regional sports precinct in Drysdale at the 45ha site bounded by Peninsula Drive, Andersons Road, Grubb Road and Belchers Road. This Master Plan provides for a range of current and future sporting needs of the Bellarine Peninsula, reinforcing the directions set by the Recreation and Leisure Needs Study (2005) and the Drysdale Clifton Springs Structure Plan (2009). This Plan is designed to be implemented over many years and involves significant development of a range of sporting facilities, supporting infrastructure and informal recreation facilities. With three schools located in the adjacent precinct and within walking distance of the proposed sporting facilities, the potential for an affective partnership between the schools, the community and the City of Greater Geelong is very strong. Such a partnership would see schools using the sports precinct during school hours for various programs and events and the community accessing some school recreation facilities outside of school hours to complement the sports precinct facilities. Specific issues that have been addressed through the preparation of this Master Plan are: Providing additional sporting facilities to relieve the pressure on existing facilities as well as responding to projected population growth and particularly providing for increased junior participation; The need to plan and construct facilities using environmentally sensitive design principles, including use of synthetic surfaces and water treatment approaches that make the site as self-sufficient as possible for irrigation purposes; Complementing sporting facilities with a range of informal recreation features that encourage families to spend time at the site participating in healthy physical activity; Ensuring construction of quality buildings that are multi-use, provide for all users and sited to consolidate storage, change, clubroom, public toilet and social meeting facilities in a minimum number of built structures; Providing good traffic and pedestrian management both into and throughout the precinct, ensuing safety and good access; and The development of a prioritised implementation plan so that projects are ready to proceed and funding avenues can be explored as they become available. A review of research and participation trends has reinforced the need for the sports precinct to provide ovals, rectangular playing fields, running tracks and courts to provide for athletics, cricket, football, soccer, netball and tennis. The provision of large open areas for training and competition allows for numerous rectangular and oval sports to be played as trends and demands change over time. Indoor sports that require increased stadium facilities for the future include basketball, netball, futsal, badminton and volleyball. The Drysdale Clifton Springs Cultural and Community Hub Sub-Regional Sports Precinct Master Plan is based on a strong framework of multi-use, sharing and flexible design, ensuring that the precinct caters for current sport and recreation pursuits and other activities that may emerge over time. It will be important to maximise community benefit by encouraging many groups and individuals to make use of the facilities. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 1

3 The design principles have underpinned the preparation of the Master Plan include: Provide for current and future sports demands on the Peninsula; Provide built infrastructure to support sporting activity; Encourage informal recreation activity by the general community; Develop partnerships for capital development and ongoing management; Create safe access and integrated movement through the site; and Promote the natural environment and sustainable development. The staged implementation of this Master Plan is outlined as follows: Stage 1 High Priority: Access road and initial car park Premier level planning field with lights Multi-use rectangular playing/training field with lights Stage 1 of main pavilion with associated services to the site Initial pathways, signage and landscaping Estimated cost: approximately $3,048,297 Stage 2 Medium Priority: Further access road and car park development Three rectangular playing fields Main pavilion stage 2 Multi-use pavilion for rectangular fields Play space Cricket Training Nets Biofiltration Swale and water storage Further development of pathways, signage and landscaping Estimated cost: approximately $7,665,729 Stage 3 Low Priority: Athletics Field, Sprint Track and Rectangular Field Fire Training Track Completion of all car parking and access roads Multi-use courts with lights and fencing Additional multi-use playing field to the south of the site Event Infrastructure Point Shared use perimeter pathway Park and Picnic furniture Completion of pathways, signage and landscaping Estimated cost: approximately $3,945,480 Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 2

4 Stadium Extension: Three additional courts as an extension on to the Bellarine Secondary College stadium Priority of this project to be referred to the Indoor Sports Facility Feasibility Project Estimated cost: approximately $7,333,902 Traffic Management: Upgrade of Peninsula Drive North to widen road and extend car parking Construction of Peninsula Drive South to extend the road through to Belchers Road Upgrade of belchers Road from Grubb Road to Peninsula Drive Priority of these projects to be subject to monitoring of peak traffic load Estimated cost of all three projects: approximately $7,700,000 In conclusion, the implementation of this Master Plan in consultation with key user groups, schools and the Potato Shed will ensure that adequate facilities are developed to cater for the long term sport and recreation needs of the Bellarine Peninsula communities. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 3

5 Table of Contents 1. Introduction Project Purpose Project Methodology Study Area Location The Site Existing Facilities within the Study Area Context Background Review Demographic Analysis Strategic Context Regional Policy Documents Municipal Policy Documents Local Policy Documents Community Consultation Council Staff Workshops Community Stakeholders Meeting School Principals Meeting Telephone Interviews Submissions Participation Trends Benefits of Participation General Trends Sport Specific Trends Outdoor Sporting Activities Indoor Sporting Activities Key Issues and Opportunities Design Principles Development Proposals Sporting Infrastructure Recreation Infrastructure Landscaping and Amenity Car Parking and Traffic Management Signage Other Infrastructure Buffers Water Requirements Earthworks Implementation and Staging Plan Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 4

6 1. Introduction Drysdale / Clifton Springs is located on the northern coastline of the Bellarine Peninsula, approximately 20 kilometres from Geelong. The area is designated as a growth area for the Bellarine Peninsula and is forecast to reach 14,096 residents by 2031, which represents a total growth of 32.6% or 3,464 residents (from 2006). Previous planning studies have identified a need for new facilities and improvement of existing recreation spaces within the Drysdale and Clifton Springs area. These studies have also found the Jetty Road growth area and infill areas to provide minimal opportunities to provide all the required active recreational space needs. Council owns a 45 hectare parcel of vacant land south east of the Portarlington Road intersection that is historically known as a the sub regional centre. This site is considered a major asset and presents a significant opportunity to build on existing site facilities which include public and private schools, emergency services (Ambulance and SES), and a community arts centre (Potato Shed). It was recommended in the Drysdale Clifton Springs Structure Plan 2009 that this land be recognised as a regional cultural and community hub and used to provide future active recreation and community facilities to meet the needs of Drysdale Clifton Springs and surrounding areas. 1.1 Project Purpose The purpose of this project is to prepare a Master Plan for the future development of the Drysdale / Clifton Springs Sub-Regional Sports Precinct. The plan ensures the long-term sport and recreation aspirations of the active sport groups in the Drysdale / Clifton Springs community. In addition, the needs and interests of local residents, schools, cultural and community centres and other communities on the Bellarine Peninsula are taken into consideration. 1.2 Project Methodology The master plan process has been undertaken in accordance with the project brief developed by the City of Greater Geelong and has involved the following key stages: Stage 1 Project Initiation incorporating site familiarisation, preparation of community engagement strategy, review of background information and analysis of participation trends. Stage 2 Analysis and Scoping including mapping of existing site characteristics, stakeholder consultation, documentation analysis, heritage values assessment, flora and fauna assessment, identification of options and opportunities and preparation of draft background paper and draft master plan. Stage 3 Design community consultation undertaken to seek feedback on draft master plan and proposed design solutions, prior to finalisation of the draft report and master plan. Stage 4 Presentation presentation of final master plan and associated documentation following a public exhibition process and consideration of feedback received in response to the draft report. An extensive community engagement process was undertaken as part of this project which involved a broad range of stakeholders. This process is summarised in Section 5 of this report. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 5

7 2. Study Area 2.1 Location Drysdale / Clifton Springs is located on the northern coastline of the Bellarine Peninsula, approximately 20km from Geelong. The primary entry into the town is from Geelong via Portarlington Road which remains the primary route into the town centre (which turns into High Street). The secondary entryways are via Murradoc Road and Collins Street which collects motorists from St Leonards, Indented Head and Portarlington. The northern boundary is formed by the coast and the southern boundary has always been defined by the proposed Drysdale Bypass. Rural living allotments to the east and west create soft edges around more traditional residential development. The sub regional centre is located south-east of the Portarlington Road intersection, and south of the existing residential areas of Drysdale and Clifton Springs. This site is therefore isolated from the existing community and the future development of the regional cultural and community hub will need to ensure that safe and efficient pedestrian and cycle links are provided across Anderson Road and Portarlington Road. Figure 1. The Bellarine Peninsula Context Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 6

8 2.2 The Site The land proposed to be the Drysdale / Clifton Springs Sub-regional Sports Precinct is bordered by: Drysdale/Ocean Grove Road (Grubb Road) to the West. Peninsula Drive to the East (including St Thomas Catholic Primary School; St Ignatius College, Bellarine Arts Centre Potato Shed, and Bellarine Secondary College. Belchers Road to the South. Andersons Road to the North. The site is owned by the City of Greater Geelong and has a total area of approximately 45 hectares. The lower potion to the south-east is leased under two separate agreements to the Bellarine Secondary College, and a portion of the site to the western edge is leased to the Ambulance Service. The SES also occupies part of the Ambulance Service s leased site. The remainder of the site is currently under lease for the purpose of grazing sheep. Arts and Culture Precinct Bellarine Secondary College Drysdale/Clifton Springs Sub-regional Sports Precinct Community Nursery and Forest Figure 2. Aerial Photograph of Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub-Regional Centre and surrounds. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 7

9 2.3 Existing Facilities within the Study Area The eastern portion of the site is bordered by Peninsula Drive which also provides access to an education and arts / culture precinct consisting of the Potato Shed, Bellarine Secondary College, St Ignatius College and St Thomas Catholic Primary School. The Potato Shed The Potato Shed Bellarine Multi Arts Centre opened in 2001 and is a nationally recognised model of a joint partnership venture between Council and schools. The facility is a hub of activity for all ages and a highly valued community cultural resource on the Bellarine Peninsula. The facility is well utilised and currently offers 150 seat theatre space, multi purpose rooms, music labs, practice rooms and kitchen and bathroom facilities. The facility hosts a number of events including SpudFEST, Youth Fest, Winter Solstice One Act Plays, Children s Week Family Fun Day and regular professional touring performances. A master plan has been prepared for the staged future expansion of this facility which includes 1) additional theatre and backstage spaces, music labs, recording / rehearsal space, exhibition space and additional general purpose areas; and 2) a much larger 250 seat theatre space. Schools Bellarine Secondary College (Drysdale Campus), St Ignatius College and St Thomas Catholic Primary School cater for approximately 2000 students on the Bellarine Peninsula. These schools also provide a range of sporting facilities that are available for community use. The following facilities are currently used by local sporting clubs for competition and / or training purposes: Bellarine Secondary College o Oval - used for junior football, senior football training and cricket. o Three (3) court stadium - used four-five nights per week and every Sunday by the Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association. In addition to this, netball and futsal are also played at the facility. St Ignatius College o Oval used for senior football training and cricket. o Single court stadium - used for basketball competition (Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association) and netball training and competition. St Thomas Catholic Primary School o Soccer field junior size only used by Springdale Soccer Club. 3. Context The Bellarine Peninsula has a diversity of existing open space reserves that provide active sport and recreation, passive leisure opportunities and linkages for walking and cycling. These range from local recreation reserves in Leopold, Ocean Grove, Drysdale, St Leonards, Barwon Heads and Portarlington to the Bellarine Peninsula Rail Trail and informal playgrounds and parks scattered throughout the region. Each community on the Bellarine Peninsula has its own range of open space facilities and it is intended that this new sub regional sports precinct will complement this existing open space rather than replace or duplicate any facilities. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 8

10 4. Background Review This section of the report provides an overview of the planning and strategic context considered in the development of the master plan for the Drysdale Clifton Springs Cultural and Community Hub Sub-Regional Sports Precinct. It includes details and implications arising from the literature review and demographic analysis. Full details are contained within the Background Report. 4.1 Demographic Analysis Drysdale and Clifton Springs are located on the Bellarine Peninsula within the City of Greater Geelong and have a combined population of 10,409 persons (based on 2006 Census data). Table 1.0 Age Profile of Drysdale and Clifton Springs Demographic Analysis - Age Profile 30% 20% 10% Drysdale & Clifton Springs 2001 Drysdale & Clifton Springs 2006 CoGG 2006 G % 0-4yrs 5-11yrs 12-17yrs 18-24yrs 25-34yrs 35-49yrs 50-59yrs 60-69yrs 70-84yrs 85+yrs Source: City of Greater Geelong Website Profile ID, from the ABS Census of Population and Housing 2006, An analysis of age structure in comparison to the City of Greater Geelong and the G21 Region found Drysdale / Clifton Springs to have: A higher proportion of children and young people aged 0 to 17 years and people aged 35 to 49 years. A lower proportion of people aged 18 to 34 years, 50 to 59 years and 85+ years. Growth in the number of young families in Drysdale Clifton Springs from , as represented by an increase in the proportion of children aged 0 11 years and adults aged years. The population of Drysdale and Clifton Springs is projected to increase by 3,464 persons (32.6%) from 2006 to 2031 to a total of 14,096 persons. This represents an average annual growth rate of 1.3% and is based on an increase of over 1,800 households. In addition, the Jetty Road growth area is a 310ha site located immediately to the west of Clifton Springs and is a major growth area on the Bellarine Peninsula. It is intended that the Jetty Road growth area will accommodate a large proportion of the growth forecast for the Bellarine Peninsula with 3,300 dwellings anticipated when fully developed and a population in excess of 8,000 people. The projected age structure for Drysdale and Clifton Springs is expected to alter with the most significant growth forecast in the older age groups. Whilst growth is expected across all ages, the proportion of the children and young people aged 0 to 24 years is expected to decline (as a percentage of the total population), whilst the proportion of people aged 60 years and over will increase. The most significant changes to household type are projected for couples without Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 9

11 dependents and lone person households which are expected to increase by 790 and 784 households respectively. In contrast, couples with dependents are forecast to increase by 164 households. Implications of the current and projected demographic profile to the Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub-Regional Sports Precinct include the importance of: Providing a sufficient number and range of sport and recreation facilities to cater for population growth. Providing for junior sport associated with the high proportion of children in the area. Providing a range of informal / casual recreation opportunities to cater for the projected growth in the older age groups. Ensuring flexible design and development of multi-use sporting facilities and associated infrastructure to cater for changing community needs. 4.2 Strategic Context The development of the master plan for the Drysdale Clifton Springs Cultural and Community Hub Sub-Regional Sports Precinct has been informed by a number of planning studies and strategic reports. A summary of these reports and the key directions is provided below Regional Policy Documents G21 Regional Sports Development Plan (2006) The City of Greater Geelong is one of five municipalities within the G21 region. The G21 Regional Sports Development Plan seeks to examine issues impacting on the viability of structured sport within the region and outline strategies to improve the sustainable delivery of sport. G21 Regional Sports and Recreation Infrastructure Strategy Report (2006) This report focuses on identifying opportunities for establishing recreation infrastructure of regional significance, being the entire G21 region (and beyond). Greater Geelong Region Regional Football (Soccer) Facility Strategy (2010) The strategy aims to develop a strategic approach to the provision of football (soccer) in the Greater Geelong (G21) region, including regional and local needs for football development, governance and facilities. Relevant recommendations include the expansion of Futsal Geelong across existing indoor sports stadiums; promotion of training benefits associated with a synthetic pitch; and the continued planning and alignment of future community and education facility developments Municipal Policy Documents City Plan (2009) The City Plan identifies three strategic directions that represent the key strengths required for the City to continue to prosper into the future including 1) Community Wellbeing; 2) Growing the Economy; and 3) Sustainable Built and Natural Environment. Key outcomes of the City Plan that are particularly relevant to this project include improved healthy eating and physical activity; livable neighbourhoods; managed growth; increased use of public and active transport by the community; agreed standards for sustainable development; and enhanced and protected natural areas. Greater Geelong Cycle Strategy The strategy s vision includes increasing the network of on and off road paths and connecting these paths, creating a cycle friendly Central Geelong and cycle friendly schools and workplaces. Of relevance to this project is the development of an off-road network from the Bellarine Rail Trail to the Drysdale Clifton Springs sports precinct site. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 10

12 City of Greater Geelong Final Report for Sustainable Sports Fields Management (2006) This report includes a range of options for sustainable water management that are relevant to all sport fields such as use of warm season grass varieties, potential for bore water, reuse of storm water and development of specific sports field irrigation targets. City of Greater Geelong Environment Management Strategy This strategy establishes a set of objectives and targets for ten different environmental areas, including the promoting the revegetation of all reserves and parks with local indigenous species; committing to an on-going reduction in energy and portable water use; and increasing the use of products made from renewable resources and recycled materials. City of Greater Geelong Sustainable Water Use Plan Council s playing fields and open space currently account for approximately 71% of Council s annual water consumption, which is broken down into 53% for playing fields, 17% for parks and reserves and 1% for gardens and planter boxes. The most significant outcome of this Plan is that Council is targeting a 25% reduction in Potable water consumption by 2015 and a 30% reduction by City of Greater Geelong Biodiversity Strategy (2003) This Strategy details the context of biodiversity in Geelong, its importance, value and legislative obligations for its protection. Strategy objectives relevant to this project include Primary Biodiversity Conservation; Secondary Biodiversity Conservation; and Weed Management. City of Greater Geelong Domestic Animal Management Plan (2008) This Plan also includes a policy in regard to dog control in public places. In general, dogs are allowed unleashed in public parks and reserves, and signs will clearly indicate those parks or reserves where dogs are required to be on a leash or prohibited from entering. City of Greater Geelong Study of Networks (2001) The study establishes a set of principles to guide all decisions and recommendations on open space acquisition, reservation, use and management in the City of Greater Geelong. Actions relevant to the Drysdale / Clifton Springs Sub Zone include reserving of open space on the eastern perimeter of Clifton Springs for local sport and informal recreation uses, and the need to develop strong linear linkages Local Policy Documents Drysdale Clifton Springs Structure Plan (2009) The Structure Plan identifies the 45 hectare vacant parcel of Council owned land as a major asset that presents significant opportunity to build on the existing site facilities. Some preliminary urban design was undertaken and the following concept plan was produced to illustrate how a regional cultural and community hub may be developed. Note the key features of the plan are: A range of sports facilities. Connectivity to the existing facilities on the eastern portion of the site. Key Activity Focus in the central part of the precinct where the arts facility in located. Extension of Peninsula Drive to the south to intersect with Belchers Road. Continued expansion of the education precinct with future tertiary facilities. There will be opportunities to further develop active transport links to connect this site with continued population growth in the surrounding area. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 11

13 Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 12

14 The Potato Shed Master Plan The Potato Shed Master Plan Detailed Business Case identifies opportunities for a two-stage facility expansion, which doubles the footprint of the existing facility. Stage 1 recommends a new 250-seat theatre with wing space and retractable seating, developed green room and dressing room facilities, a secondary sub-dividable theatre space, new music laboratories and recording facilities, new general purpose rooms, expanded public access gallery and exhibition space, and upgraded reception and bathroom amenities. Stage 2 includes outdoor performance space and additional music and office spaces. The Master Plan and Detailed Business Case (showing the proposed ultimate build out) potentially impacts on the site for this study, based on the overall size of the proposed facility, location of additional car parking and north / south connections for school pedestrians, bus access and proposed bus layover zones. Bellarine Peninsula Recreation and Leisure Needs Study (2005) This study investigates and quantifies the recreation, open space and leisure needs of the current and future Peninsula communities. Key recommendations that relate to this project include: Rezoning a significant portion of the Sub Regional Site for Public Park & Recreation Purposes (PPRZ) to enable the establishment of multi-purpose sports ovals / playing fields. Furthermore, in partnership with local schools, ongoing community access to the Bellarine Secondary College indoor stadium, ovals and Council multi-arts facility will establish this site as a sub-regional community hub catering for a range of active sporting, recreation, arts and cultural, and education activities. Working with local schools to secure defined joint use agreements for community access to school ovals and support facilities. Improving safety for cyclists along Grubb Road, between Ocean Grove and the Drysdale Sub-Regional Site. Reviewing management arrangements at the indoor centres and giving consideration to the establishing an additional indoor courts at the Bellarine Secondary College. Bellarine Peninsula Strategic Plan A key objective of the Plan is to improve community recreational amenity, which includes investigating the provision of a multi-purpose sports centre and implement key objectives for Drysdale / Clifton Springs in the Bellarine Peninsula Recreation and Leisure Needs Study. Drysdale & Clifton Springs Community Hubs and Active Transport Network Draft Report (2009) This draft report identified an active transport network for Drysdale and Clifton Springs, which considered key destinations, such as the Potato Shed and proposed sub regional sports precinct. The report proposed a future connection to the Bellarine Rail Trail and the existing shared use path along Peninsula Drive to improve access to the site. Ocean Grove Sporting Infrastructure Plan (2010) This plan proposes that the Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub-regional Sport Precinct be developed as an overflow sports venue with the capacity to accommodate excess demand from individual townships on the Bellarine Peninsula, including Ocean Grove. Furthermore, the plan proposes that the site accommodate specialised facilities that service a sub-regional catchment, including the possible provision of synthetic surfaces (e.g. soccer). Possible sports could include cricket, football, soccer, junior athletics and hockey. The plan also states that the site will be required to cater for future soccer field demand which cannot be provided within Ocean Grove and provide a range of support facilities and amenities to facilitate maximum use. Jetty Road Urban Growth Plan and Structure Plan (2008) These documents identify that the 2ha reserve within Jetty Road is for passive recreation and therefore provide further justification for the active recreation development at the Grubb Road site. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 13

15 5. Community Consultation Community consultation was undertaken to assist in the identification of key issues, opportunities and community expectations relating to the Drysdale Clifton Springs Cultural and Community Hub Sub-Regional Sports Precinct. Information gathered as part of this process is detailed in the Background Report and has been used to inform the Issues and Opportunities associated with the site (Section 6) and Participation Trends for various sport and recreation activities (Section 7). A summary of the consultation process, involving over 50 individuals and groups is provided below. 5.1 Council Staff Workshops. Four internal workshops were held (December 2009, February, June and September 2010) involving eleven (11) Council Officers from a range of relevant business units and a representative from the Department of Planning and Community Development. 5.2 Community Stakeholders Meeting. Three community stakeholder meetings were held (December 2009, February and September 2010) involving 16 attendees, including representatives from the following organisations: Football Geelong Drysdale / Clifton Springs Community Association Potato Shed Multi-Cultural Arts Centre Drysdale Leopold Pony Club Drysdale Senior Citizens Springdale Community Centre Springdale Soccer Club Peninsula Netball Association Drysdale Cricket Club Drysdale Football Netball Club (Football) Drysdale Football Netball Club (Netball) Drysdale Bowls Club and Croquet Club Ocean Grove / Barwon Heads Little Athletics Club Peninsula Little Athletics Club Bellarine Athletics Club Drysdale Fire Brigade Bellarine SES 5.3 School Principals Meeting. Two meetings and interviews were held in December 2009 and October 2010 involving Principals / representatives from Bellarine Secondary College, Drysdale Primary School, St Thomas Catholic Primary School, St Ignatius College, Clifton Springs Primary School and the Geelong School Sports Association. 5.4 Telephone Interviews Telephone interviews were conducted with state sporting associations, local leagues / associations and relevant local sporting clubs. These interviews were undertaken in February 2010 and involved the following organisations: Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association Football Netball Geelong Hockey Geelong Surf Coast Netball Association Geelong Baseball Association Bellarine Bears Baseball Club Geelong Softball Association Ocean Grove Softball Club Geelong RAMS Rugby Union Club Geelong Rugby League Football Club Geelong Touch Football Association Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association Badminton Geelong Ocean Grove Badminton Club Geelong Amateur Volleyball Association Athletics Victoria Victorian Little Athletics Association Cricket Victoria Football Federation Victoria Hockey Victoria Netball Victoria 5.5 Submissions Submissions from residents and community groups were invited through the promotion of the project. A total of nine (9) submissions were received. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 14

16 6. Participation Trends Drysdale Clifton Springs Cultural and Community Hub Sub-Regional Sports Precinct The following information provides a summary of the key trends that relate to sport and recreation. This information has been obtained from the following sources: - The Australian Sports Commission s annual Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (2008). - The Australian Bureau of Statistics national survey of Children s Participation in Cultural and Leisure Activities, Australia (2009). - Consultation with State and Local Sporting Associations. 6.1 Benefits of Participation There are five key benefits attributed to participation in recreation / physical activity that are recognised within the leisure industry. These include: Health benefits, such as increased life expectancy, decreased risk of heart disease and stroke, reduced risk of a range of cancers, decreased likelihood of anxiety and depression. Personal benefits, such as increased self esteem, reduction in antisocial tendencies, reduced likelihood of social isolation, improvement / maintenance of mental health. Community benefits, such as strengthening community support networks and community pride, providing settings for people to socialise and experience volunteerism. Economic benefits, such as those associated with employment, volunteering and infrastructure development. Environmental benefits, such as improved visual and aesthetic values associated with enhanced landscape amenity, and improved environments for flora and fauna. 6.2 General Trends 49.3% of Australians are likely to engage in physical activity three times per week or more (2008). This has increased from 37.2% in Walking was the most popular physical activity in 2008 with 39.2% of the population walking for exercise at least once a week. Other popular activities included aerobics/fitness (23.5%), swimming (14.5%), cycling (11.6%), running (9.9%), golf (7.1%), tennis (6.8%), bushwalking (6.4%), outdoor football / soccer (5.2%) and netball (3.9%). Approximately 63% of children (aged 5-14 years) are likely to participate in organised sport and 34% in selected organised cultural activities outside of school hours. Boys are more likely to participate in organised sport (70%, compared to girls 56%), but girls are twice as likely to participate in cultural activities (45% compared with 23%). In 2009, the most popular sport for children was swimming with a participation rate of 19%, followed by outdoor soccer (13%) and Australian Rules football (9%). The most popular sports for boys are outdoor soccer (20%), swimming (17%) and Australian Rules football (16%), and for girls swimming (20%), netball (17%) and gymnastics (8%). 6.3 Sport Specific Trends The information on the following pages provides a summary of current provision and participation trends for various sports and discusses the implications for the Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub- Regional Sports Precinct. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 15

17 6.3.1 Outdoor Sporting Activities Sport Participation Trends / Current Situation Implications for Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub- Regional Sports Precinct Athletics Baseball & Softball Cricket National and State Participation: National participation (for persons aged 15+ years) has remained stable at 0.7% since Participation in Victoria has declined from 1.1% in 2003 to 0.6% in % of Australian children aged 5-14 years participate in athletics, which has declined from 3.8% in Athletics Victoria has reported a 3% increase in registrations and plans for new facilities in outer metropolitan and regional areas. Local Participation: There has been some growth amongst the five senior athletics clubs in the Greater Geelong area, four of which (including Bellarine) are based at the Landy Field Athletics Track. (The Corio Club is based at the Corio Track.) The Bellarine Athletics Club is considered to be a small to medium size club, with approximately 35 members. The future growth of this club will be strengthened by an athletics facility on the Peninsula (Athletics Victoria). There are three little athletics clubs on the Bellarine Peninsula (Ocean Grove / Barwon Heads, Peninsula and Leopold) with a combined total of over 300 members. There are nine little athletics clubs based at Landy Fields. National and State Participation: 0.3% of the Australian population (aged 15+ years) participate in baseball, whilst 0.4% participate in softball. Participation in both sports has declined slightly (by 0.1%) since A similar proportion of the Victorians participate in baseball and softball (0.2% each). Local Participation: The Geelong Baseball Association has 6 clubs and 480 members in the Geelong region. Junior participation has increased over recent years, whilst senior participation has remained stable. A new junior participation program is currently being introduced. The Bellarine Bears Baseball Club has 3 senior and 3 junior teams and 72 members. The Geelong Softball Association has 4-5 clubs and approximately 100 senior and 40 junior members, which has increased over recent years. Competition is held at Stead Park, Corio, which can accommodate 10 diamonds and is planned for a facility upgrade. The Ocean Grove Softball Club is the only club on the Peninsula, but most members come from Geelong East/Newcomb. The club has 3 women s teams and membership has recently declined. National and State Participation: 3.5% of the Australians (aged 15+ years) play cricket (outdoor), which has increased from 3.3% in Victorian participation has remained stable at 4.6%. 5.2% of Australian children (aged 5-14 years) participate in cricket which has increased slightly since 2003 (5.0%). Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 16 Strong support for an athletics facility from local senior and little athletics clubs. Such a facility would be expected to cater for senior athletics training, little athletics training and competition, school use and general training for other sports. An all weather athletics facility would incur a large capital development cost but lower ongoing maintenance requirements. Alternatively, a grass track with synthetic components may be a more affordable option. G21 Regional Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Strategy Report, 2005 recommends monitoring the long-term need for another regional standard athletics facility. The Bellarine Baseball Club reports some issues with their current venue, which can accommodate one senior or two small junior diamonds. There is currently insufficient demand for dedicated baseball or softball facilities to be developed at the Sub-Regional Sports Precinct, however long term needs should be monitored. G21 Regional Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Strategy Report, 2005 suggests that use of existing facilities should be monitored with a view to rationalise under-utilised facilities. The BPCA reports a lack of facilities for the current number of cricket sides and a need to use often inadequate school grounds. BPCA estimates that an additional five grounds are needed to overcome fixturing issues (three at the sports precinct site).

18 Sport Participation Trends / Current Situation Implications for Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub- Regional Sports Precinct Football - Australian Rules Football Rugby Football - Soccer Cricket Victoria has reported significant growth in the number of junior players, whilst senior participation has remained stable. Local Participation: Cricket in the Geelong region has grown at approximately 5% per annum over the past five years. (Cricket Victoria.) The Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association (BPCA) has 12 clubs and approximately 48 senior and 30 junior sides. Participation has increased dramatically over the past 5 years, particularly in Drysdale and Ocean Grove. National and State Participation: 2.9% of Australians (aged 15+ years) participate in Australian Rules football which has increased from 2.8% in In Victoria, participation has increased from 5.1% in 2003 to 5.6% in Australian Rules football was the third most popular sport for children aged 5-14 years with a participation rate of 8.6%. This has increased from 7.3% since Local Participation: Football Netball Geelong manages the Bellarine FL, Geelong FL, Colac and District FNL, Geelong FNL and Geelong JFL. Football Netball Geelong has experienced significant growth in registrations over the past five years, particularly amongst the junior and little league age groups (U10 U16). Total registrations have increased from 4613 in 2005 to 6179 in 2009 (+34%). Drysdale Football Club registrations have declined slightly from 365 in 2006 to 322 in National and State Participation: 1.3% of Australians (aged 15+ years) play Rugby League, whilst 0.9% play Rugby Union. Participation in both sports has increased slightly since 2003 (by 0.2% and 0.1% respectively). In Victoria, similar numbers participate in Rugby League (0.3%) and Rugby Union (0.2%). 3.6% of Australian children aged 5-14 years participate in Rugby League, which has increased from 2.9% in Local Participation: Geelong RAMS Rugby Union Football Club is the only rugby union club in the region, which is based in Corio (Flinders Peak Secondary College). The Club has 8 teams and approximately 100 members which have increased over recent years. The Geelong Rugby League Football Club is based at Frier Reserve, Newtown and is the only rugby league club in the region. The club has one senior side with 40 members and is hoping to establish a junior side. National and State Participation: Soccer is the 9 th most popular activity in Australia with 5.2% of the population participating, which has increased from 4.3% in Soccer was the most popular sport for boys aged 5-14 years with a participation rate of 19.9%, and the second most popular for children (13.2%). Participation has remained stable since Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 17 Population growth must also be considered in determining facility provision, including the potential establishment of another club (i.e. Clifton Springs). G21 Regional Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Strategy Report, 2005 suggests that additional local level facilities will be required across the municipality to cater for future population growth. Football Netball Geelong project continued growth particularly amongst juniors, and anticipate that there will be insufficient grounds in 2-3 years time. Drysdale only has one oval which is insufficient to cope with training and competition. G21 Regional Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Strategy Report, 2005 suggests that additional local level facilities will be required across the municipality to cater for future population growth in the long term. The Geelong RAMS Rugby Union Football Club reports that there is no demand for additional clubs or facilities due to the dominance of Australian Rules football within the region. Geelong Rugby League Football Club has some issues with their current venue (shared with cricket), including lack of lighting which requires the club to train at other venues. Football Federation Victoria (FFV) suggests the development of a multi-pitch soccer venue with the potential to be elevated to a Municipal Venue in the long term. (C class facilities with potential to be

19 Sport Participation Trends / Current Situation Implications for Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub- Regional Sports Precinct Football - Touch Hockey In Victoria, 3.4% of the population (aged 15+ years) play outdoor soccer which has increased slightly from 2003 (3.3%). Football Federation Victoria report significant growth in female and junior participation. Local Participation: There are currently 15 clubs and 2,546 registered players in the City of Greater Geelong. Futsal (indoor soccer) is also very strong. There are 4 clubs on the Bellarine Peninsula including St Leonards, Barwon Heads, Surfside (at capacity) and Springdale. A 5 th club in Leopold may be established in the future. Springdale Soccer Club is a new club with 1 senior men s team and 4 junior teams (50-55 members and Futsal players). The Club runs Futsal at Drysdale Primary School (two nights per week) and uses facilities at three local schools (Clifton Springs Primary, Portarlington Primary and St Thomas). The club will temporarily be based at Shell Road in There is no dedicated facility for soccer on the Bellarine Peninsula and while there is a proposal to upgrade the facilities at Shell Road in Ocean Grove, this 2-pitch development will cater for a limited amount of the anticipated growth of this emerging sport on the Bellarine Peninsula. National and State Participation: 3.2% of Australians (aged 15+ years) play Touch Football, which has increased from 2.3% since In Victoria, 0.3% of the population participated in Local Participation: The Geelong Touch Football Association has 25 teams and approximately 300 members aged from 14 to 60 years. Membership has recently increased. The Association is based at King Lloyd Reserve in Geelong (shared with Cricket) and compete on Monday nights. Geelong Touch Football Association: o Facilities are currently nearing capacity and the Association may need to consider running competition over two nights. There may be a need for an additional venue in years to come. National and State Participation: 1.2% of Australians (aged 15 years and over) participate in hockey (outdoor) which has increased slightly since 2003 (1.0%). In Victoria, 0.6% of the population participate in hockey, which has declined from 1.0% in % of Australian children aged 5-14 years participate in hockey, which has declined from 2.5% in The Hockey Australia Census identified a 5.92% decrease in participation from 2006 to Local Participation: Hockey Geelong has 8 clubs and approximately 300 senior and 500 junior hockey players. The Association is experiencing growth (particularly amongst the juniors) and has recently appointed a Development Officer. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 18 upgraded). There is a need for four full size pitches (one will year-round capacity) and a centralised pavilion at the sports precinct site. Opportunity to cater for the projected growth of the sport by providing dedicated facilities for soccer and a home-base for the local clubs (that are multiuse for rectangular sports and therefore will provide for other emerging sports in the future). Potential consideration of one synthetic higher order pitch on the Peninsula (either Shell Road or Drysdale). Springdale Soccer Club has identified a need for a minimum of 2 pitches and associated infrastructure. G21 Regional Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Strategy Report, 2005 suggests that local level facilities will be required across the municipality to cater for emerging and future demand. There is currently no demand for dedicated touch football facilities to be developed at the Sub-Regional Sports Precinct, however long term needs should be continually monitored. Multi-use sports fields could cater for touch football in the future. The development of a synthetic multi-use pitch at the Drysdale / Clifton Springs site would not be required for competition, however would be beneficial for running clinics and club training. There is currently insufficient demand for a dedicated hockey facility to be developed at the Sub-Regional Sports Precinct, however long term needs should be monitored. Multi-use sports fields could cater for hockey in the future.

20 Sport Participation Trends / Current Situation Implications for Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub- Regional Sports Precinct Netball Tennis Hockey Geelong is preparing to develop a second hockey pitch at Stead Park (as per master plan). The existing pitch is currently at capacity. There is hockey pitch at Geelong Grammar. National and State Participation: Netball is the 10th most popular activity in Australia, with 3.9% of the population participating (aged 15+). Participation has remained stable since Netball is the second most popular sport for girls aged 5-14 years with a participation rate of 17%. Participation by all children (aged 5-14) has declined from 9.1% in 2003 to 8.4% in Victorian participation has remained stable at 4.9%. Netball participation in Victoria and in Regional Victoria is stable. Any drop in Association participation is generally picked-up in social participation. Netball associated with football netball clubs is becoming more prominent due to the flexible leisure options they present for families. Local Participation: Netball Victoria reports that all forms of netball competition are strong in the region. The three main Associations / Competitions on the Peninsula include 1) Bellarine and District NA; 2) Peninsula NA; and 3) Surfside Netball Competition. Surfside Netball Association runs an indoor netball competition at the Bellarine Aquatic Centre in Ocean Grove, involving 68 teams and 612 members. Membership is generally stable. Peninsula Netball Association operates at the Drysdale Recreation Reserve, offering winter, spring and autumn netball competitions for teams across the Peninsula. National and State Participation: Tennis is the 7 th most popular activity in Australia, involving 6.8% of the population (aged 15+ years). Participation has declined from 9.0% in In Victoria, participation has declined from 10.5% in 2003 to 7.2% in % of children (aged 5-14 years) play tennis which has declined from 8.6% in Tennis is the 3 rd most popular sport for girls with a participation rate of 8%. Tennis Victoria reports that junior membership is stable, senior membership (Saturday competition) has declined and night / mid week competition is continuing to grow. Local Participation: There are two main Tennis Associations on the Peninsula including: 1) Tennis Geelong Inc who runs Saturday competition for juniors and seniors and a small mid-week competition. Membership is stable with juniors, 900 seniors and mid-week players. Drysdale Tennis Club is stable with 2 senior teams & 5 junior teams, whilst numbers are growing at Clifton Springs (4 senior & 11 junior teams). 2) Bellarine Peninsula Tennis Association who runs mid-week competition involving 37 clubs and approximately 800 participants. Membership has increased significantly over recent years. Drysdale TC is stable with 3 teams and Clifton Springs has 6-7 teams. The co-location of netball and football facilities is currently required due to the competition structure / fixturing of netball games with football games. The development of netball courts will therefore be required at the Sports Precinct. The development of multi-use netball /tennis courts at the site has the potential to cater for overflow at peak times for both sports across the Peninsula. G21 Regional Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Strategy Report, 2005 suggests that additional local level facilities will be required across the municipality to cater for future population growth in the mediumlong-term. Tennis Geelong reports that Clifton Springs has requested more courts to cater for growing numbers. G21 Regional Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Strategy Report, 2005 suggests that additional local level facilities will be required across the municipality to cater for future population growth in the long-term. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 19

21 6.3.2 Indoor Sporting Activities Sport Participation Trends / Current Situation Implications for Drysdale Clifton Springs Sub- Regional Sports Precinct Badminton National and State Participation: 0.9% of Australians (aged 15 years and over) play Badminton, which has increased slightly since 2003 (0.8%). Participation in Victoria is at 1.0% which has decreased since 2003 (1.2%). An expansion of the existing stadium could provide opportunities for badminton (pending suitable management arrangements). Basketball Futsal / Indoor Soccer Local Participation: Ocean Grove Badminton Club is the major club on the Peninsula with 70 members, which has grown over recent years. Competition is held four nights per week (plus Tuesday afternoons). A small group has started using the Drysdale Scout Hall for social badminton. Another social group is based at Point Lonsdale and Leopold has a strong junior competition. National and State Participation: 3.6% of Australians (aged 15+ years) play Basketball, which has remained stable since In Victoria, the participation rate is 5.2% which has increased from 4.9% over the same period. 7.4% of Australian children play basketball, which has declined from 7.3% since Local Participation: Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association (BPBA) has teams and approximately 1500 members, which has grown over recent years (particularly men and juniors). BPBA runs domestic competition on Monday to Thursday nights and a representative program every Friday night. The Centre is used every evening from 4/5pm to 9/11pm and is at capacity. BPBA also use courts at Ocean Grove and St Ignatius College to cater for demand. National and State Participation: 2.3% of the Australian and Victorian population (aged 15 years and over) play Indoor Soccer / Futsal, which has increased since 2003 (from 1.7% and 2.1% respectively). 2.8% of Australian children play Indoor Soccer, which has increased from 1.2% since Local Participation: Futsal is currently run in Geelong (The Leisuretime Centre), Barwon Heads (Barwon Valley Activity Centre) and Drysdale (Drysdale Primary School). BPBA anticipates that three additional courts at the Bellarine Secondary College Stadium would enable the Association to cater for current and future demands for domestic basketball and would also enable representative sides to train during the week (currently restricted to Sunday training only). The existing stadium is currently only available for other uses / sports on a weekend. An expansion of the existing stadium could provide opportunities for futsal (pending suitable management arrangements). Netball Please refer to Netball (Section 6.3.1) for relevant participation trends. An expansion of the existing stadium will cater for future growth of popularity of netball. Volleyball National and State Participation: In Australia, 1.4% of the population (aged 15+ years) play Volleyball. In Victoria, the participation rate is 1.3%. Both National and State participation has increased slightly since 2003 (1.3%). Local Participation: Geelong Amateur Volleyball Association (GAVA) is based at the Leisuretime Centre in Geelong and has approximately 100 players, which has grown over recent years. YMCA Volleyball runs a social volleyball competition in Geelong. GAVA has identified a lack of facilities to cater for anticipated future growth. The proposed addition of indoor multi-use courts at the Sports Precinct would provide residents with an opportunity to play Volleyball on the Peninsula. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 20

22 7. Key Issues and Opportunities This section of the Master Plan report summarises the key issues and opportunities that have arisen from the background review, site assessment and consultation process. Planning The site is currently zoned Mixed Use Zone (MUZ) and is proposed to be rezoned to a Special Use Zone (SUZ) to help facilitate the development of the site. Flora and Fauna significance appears to be focussed in the Community Nursery Area (that is leased to Bellarine Secondary College) and the Basin Reserve, to the east of the study area. There is heritage significance on part of the site known as the Community Nursery (powder magazines) which will need to be considered in the development of the site. Aboriginal Heritage sites exist in the vicinity but do not appear to impact directly on the site. Lease holders on the site need to be considered in the preparation of the Master Plan including Ambulance Service / SES and Bellarine Secondary College (Community Nursery). There is potential to relocate the fire brigade training track from the Drysdale Recreation Reserve to this site. Sporting Uses There are currently competing demands for existing sporting space. Projected population growth and increases in junior sports participation indicate that more sporting facilities are required on this site. Support / demand for outdoor sporting facilities is evident from cricket, football (Australian Rules), soccer, athletics, multi-use areas (i.e. suitable for hockey, school sports etc.) and multiuse hard courts. The existing stadium (Bellarine Secondary College) is at capacity and consideration needs to be given to an expansion of facilities to cater for current and future indoor sporting demands. The range of indoor sporting opportunities in the area is also limited. Sporting facilities at the Sports Precinct will need to complement other opportunities that exist or are planned across the Bellarine Peninsula to avoid a duplication of projects / facilities. This includes proposed opportunities at Jetty Road and other future subdivisions. Potential for regional sports field development: turf and/or synthetic surface for training and/or competition for specific sports. The use of flexible solutions will be important for maximising multi-use and changing use as community demands vary over time. Recreation Uses Previous planning studies have identified gaps in quality local informal park and linear link sites. Passive recreation parkland is needed to meet gaps in local and regional provision. Proposed provision of a 2ha passive recreation site in the Jetty Road subdivision to service 3300 dwellings and a projected population of 8,000 people will justify further need for active recreation development at the sub-regional site. Public facilities such as playgrounds, park infrastructure, public artworks, pathways and amenities are needed to cater for casual / informal reserve users. Pathways linking features within the site as well as to destinations to the north, south and west will be an important consideration of the master plan. The development of the Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre (BASC) has created increased participation and interest in aquatic and leisure pursuits. The new centre is exceeding expectations with enrolments in programs and casual use, and many activities are operating at capacity during peak times. Over the next months Council will consider a possible expansion to BASC that might include increased dry program space and health club, expansion of aquatic space and stadium expansion. It is unlikely that Council would develop another aquatic facility on the Bellarine Peninsula given the likely impact on patronage and membership at both BASC and Splashdown and also the need to upgrade existing ageing facilities at Waterworld, Splashdown, Lara and Kardinia. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 21

23 Schools Public and private schools already exist in the study area, bringing to this site large numbers of children and young people daily from across the Bellarine Peninsula. There is an opportunity for joint school / community facilities for sport, recreation and other activities. More specifically is the opportunity to realise good partnerships through school use of proposed sports facilities, and community use of existing school facilities. Built Form Built facilities such as pavilions will be required to support sporting uses and other community activities. Such facilities will need to be well positioned and have the capacity to cater for multiple playing fields / sports simultaneously. Pavilions will need to include multi-use community spaces and provide meeting rooms for local clubs and community groups needing a home. There is a need to consider the potential inclusion of Council s Parks and Gardens Operations Centre at the site. Access and Linkages It is recognised that this site is isolated from the existing community and the future development of the regional cultural and community hub will need to ensure that safe and efficient pedestrian and cycle links are provided across Andersons Road and Portarlington Road. Access roads, car parking and pathways through the site are a significant issue considering the traffic management challenges for the Potato Shed and current schools on the site. Additional traffic volumes into the site will require careful planning to provide safe entry, parking and exit for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. There is potential for Peninsula Drive to be extended down to Belchers Road, as required in the Drysdale Clifton Springs Structure Plan, which would resolve some of the congestion within the precinct and provide alternate access from the south. Residents on the eastern side of the study area have concerns about traffic management, noise and any potential sealing of Gillies Road. Need to consider potential for shared parking and safe connections between the Potato Shed and Sports Precinct site to cater for all users of the study area (as proposed in the Potato Shed Master Plan). A traffic management plan needs to consider school pick-up and drop-off; emergency vehicle access, peak car parking requirements; overflow parking options and general safety of all users. The needs of all adjacent properties must also be carefully addressed. Council will work closely with the Potato Shed and schools within the precinct to implement appropriate traffic management solutions. Environmental Design Consideration of all options for capture and re-use from storm water on-site and from surrounding areas, schools and other buildings. Must ensure that water retention is allowed by Water Authority / Catchment Management Authority. Treatment of existing dams must be considered in the master plan, including risk management issues associated with the safety of children. Creating / integrating natural and built environments with attention to environmentally sustainable design in all aspects of the Master Plan (energy, water, vegetation). Need for sustainable sports field development, through use of drought tolerant grass species etc. Landscaping and open space for community use. Generally drought tolerant indigenous species would be preferred. Financial Considerations Need for funding and facility partnerships. A prioritised implementation plan will be required to enable the stage development of the site, in accordance with community need. Consideration of capital costs, asset management and renewal, maintenance and sustainability of the site will be important and will encourage innovation in design. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 22

24 8. Design Principles In response to the key issues and opportunities identified in the previous section of this report, a series of design principles have been developed to guide the detailed planning and development of the Drysdale Clifton Springs Cultural and Community Hub Sub-Regional Sports Precinct. Provide for current and future sports demands on the Peninsula: Develop sporting facilities that cater for people of all ages, abilities and genders. Emphasise maximum and multi-functional use of facilities including year-round use of playing areas and pavilions that are shared between user groups. Ensure facilities complement existing and proposed sporting opportunities on the Bellarine Peninsula. Sports Precinct to focus on the provision of sub-regional facilities rather than duplicating local facilities. Maximise flexible, multi-use facilities that can cater for changing community demands (i.e. by minimising fencing / solid structures to define playing fields and ensuring good spatial relationships between facilities). Provide built infrastructure to support the sporting activity: Ensure efficient use of resources by developing a minimum number of buildings / pavilions that are well placed to service a maximum number of playing fields / areas and many sports and teams simultaneously. Ensure all facilities are attractively designed and located, comply with relevant standards and are appropriate to the level and type of use. Encourage informal recreation activity by the general community: Encourage informal / unstructured use of the site through the provision of a range of recreation facilities that are available and accessible to the community (e.g. park infrastructure, play space, contemplative public art features and pathways). Promote unstructured exercise by providing a path network that links features within the site and to destinations to the north, south and west. Develop partnerships for capital development and ongoing management: Foster partnerships with local schools to enable joint use of community and school facilities for the benefit of the broader community. Create safe access and integrated movement through the site: Ensure integrated planning of the whole precinct. Provide safe and effective traffic management into and throughout the site for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. Where possible, provide shared parking between facilities and users. Encourage users to use alternative means of transport by providing safe and efficient pedestrian and cycle links to and through the site. Promote the natural environment and sustainable development: Ensure the long term viability of recreation reserve facilities through the use of environmentally sustainable practices (i.e. appropriate water capture and re-use solutions, sustainable sports field development, energy efficient buildings etc.) Preserve existing flora and fauna and heritage values in the Community Nursery area and Basin Reserve. Ensure facilities are integrated into the existing built and natural environment. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 23

25 9. Development Proposals The key components of the Drysdale Clifton Springs Cultural and Community Hub Sub-Regional Sports Master Plan are: 9.1 Sporting Infrastructure Playing fields and multi-use sporting areas including: o Development of three (3) football / cricket ovals, one as a premier oval with fencing and turf cricket pitch. The other two ovals to be unfenced (for maximum multi-use benefit) and with synthetic cricket pitch. o Improve the existing oval at Bellarine Secondary College (to create a total of four ovals). o Four (4) separate rectangular multi-use sports fields suitable for soccer, hockey, rugby and/or touch football. One of these fields to be located inside the athletics track. One main soccer field to be fenced and potentially be developed as a synthetic field. o Athletics facility with 8 lane grass track and 10 lane 100m synthetic straight and jumps / field events areas (for long / triple and high jump, discuss and shot-put). Future consideration may be given to converting the grass athletics field to synthetic should demand for athletics in the region increase. o Six (6) multi-lined and multi-use acrylic surface netball / tennis courts, with fencing for each pair of (2) courts. o Two (2) of the sports ovals to be multi-use for oval, rectangular and possibly diamond sports, one of these potentially to be developed as a synthetic multi-use training field. Field line marking will be temporary only so that the spaces can remain multi-use for many sports. o All turf fields and playing surfaces to be planted with warm season grasses and will have irrigation and drainage installed at the time of construction. o All sports areas are oriented north-south with the exception of the rectangular pitch in the centre of the athletics track. o Lighting of all sporting fields and courts to address sporting needs for training on all fields and competition on the premier oval and one main soccer field. o Scoreboards, timekeepers areas and coaches boxes for the playing fields. o Spectator and player shelters to be located close to the playing fields if the shelters provided by pavilions are too far away. Cricket practices nets, located centrally to the three sports ovals and with a safety buffer for stray balls and oriented north-south. One main multi-use pavilion with the capacity to cater for multiple groups using the four sporting ovals, outdoor courts, athletics facility and fire training track. Includes: home and away change rooms, amenities and support areas, outdoor courts change rooms and amenities, umpire change rooms, public amenities, warm-up/gym space, canteen, storage areas, administration areas, coaches/scorers areas and social club facilities. Verandas and shelters to be provided for players and spectators. The precise dimensions and areas of these components will be further discussed during detailed design. One sports pavilion to cater for the four rectangular fields and multiple groups that may be using them simultaneously. Includes multiple change rooms, amenities and support areas, public amenities, canteen/kiosk and social club area. Verandas and shelters to be provided for players and spectators. Stadium expansion in partnership with Bellarine Secondary College to include three (3) additional courts to cater for a range of indoor sports. Includes three full size multi-use indoor courts, change rooms and amenities and administration areas. This facility will Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 24

26 ideally be built as an extension to the existing facility with internal access through the stadium. There will also be consideration of an Environmental Resource Centre adjoining this stadium facility on the southern side and in close proximity to the Community Nursery. 9.2 Recreation Infrastructure Shared pathway (estimated length 2.1km) with exercise/fitness stations for pedestrians and cyclists around the outside of the sporting facilities (to provide a circuit for walking, cycling, cross country training / competition etc.). Distance markers will be considered in the detailed design of the pathway. Parkland, play space and picnic facilities to provide informal recreation opportunities. These facilities to be located some distance from traffic and vehicle dangers but in close proximity to car parking and to include: o Natural environmental theme. o Accessible pathways with disability / wheel access. o Bicycle racks and dog tie up area o Four (4) picnic tables. o One (1) double BBQ with access to water and one (1) drinking fountain o One (1) shelter with One (1) unisex family friendly public toilet attached o Shade tree planting, landscaping with garden beds and open lawn areas o Landscaping features to be installed as safety barriers to keep children safe from potential risks (e.g. raised garden beds, bollards, rocks, low level plantings, etc) o Six (6) seats through this area with backs and arm rests o Sub-regional play space, developed in accordance with Council s Playground Development Guidelines, to cater for junior (3-7 yrs) and senior (7-14 yrs) with a range of natural play elements, public art installations (sculptures, totems, etc) and equipment for challenging and physical play. o Rubbish bins and dog poo dispenser bin Event infrastructure point, providing access to power, water, waste disposal, etc. 9.3 Landscaping and Amenity Perimeter planting of a vegetation corridor throughout the northern western and southern edges of the site with vegetation corridor connections to the north and east of the site. Buffer planting will be maximised in the detailed design of landscape elements. Consideration may be given to creative planting formations and/or architectural features (e.g. paving, steps, landscape features, etc.) Retain the Community Nursery, given the heritage significance of this facility. (Renew the lease of this and the adjacent portion of the site to the Bellarine Secondary College to continue the current management arrangements of the south-east corner of the precinct.) Water treatment and storage areas to facilitate sustainable management / watering of playing fields / ovals. Security lighting at entry points and at key destinations within the sports precinct. 9.4 Car Parking and Traffic Management Car vehicle access to the site from Belchers Road with car parking for up to 240 cars. Bus and car vehicle access from Peninsula Drive to a central car park that accommodates up to 80 cars. This car parking area can also provide overflow car parking for the Potato Shed Multi Arts Centre and layover zones for school buses, with pedestrian links created to encourage interaction between facilities in the precinct. Car vehicle access from Peninsula Drive to a northern car park that accommodates up to 112 cars and an eastern car park of up to 80 cars. Car vehicle access from Peninsula Drive to a main car park that provides direct access to the main pavilion and car parking for the sports stadium, accommodating up to 236 cars and also providing safe storage for bicycles. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 25

27 Overflow car parking can be provided on the fire brigade training track, when not in use. Traffic management and the detailed design of intersections will be considered by Council s traffic engineers as they prepare detailed construction plans. Traffic management solutions for the precinct will be prioritised and scheduled by Council s traffic section as traffic counts and studies indicate that there is a need. Safe crossing and intersection point Andersons Road, along Peninsula Drive and Belchers Road. A typical safe pedestrian crossing and road cross-sections are provided as examples. During detailed design, exact locations of pedestrian crossings and road detail will be determined. Pathways throughout the site for walking access to all facilities. Active transport links and connections into bicycle and pedestrian routes that lead to and from the site. 9.5 Signage Signage at entry points and throughout site to indicate: o Directions for navigating around the site. o Identification of the various elements of the sports precinct. o Information to increase user appreciation of site, and minimise management and risk problems, including maps, emergency protocols, regulatory messages, cultural/environmental interpretive information and other general details. 9.6 Other Infrastructure Retain sites for Ambulance and SES. Provision to be made for the City of Greater Geelong Parks and Gardens Operations Centre to be located in south-west corner of site. Provision to be made, in accordance with the Drysdale Clifton Springs Structure Plan (2009) for a potential future Tertiary Facilities. Further detailed feasibility for this education facility, including specific components, will need to be undertaken. Relocate fire brigade facilities from Drysdale Recreation Reserve, by developing a fire training track within the site. 9.7 Buffers Distances to roadways from side boundaries of sporting fields will be a minimum of 30m. Distances to roadways from goal post boundaries of sporting fields will be a minimum of 40m. 9.8 Water Requirements The question of water balance and capacity will be resolved during the concept design phase. For this early design exercise, the principles of water conservation and reuse are consistent with best practice and include: Application of Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) initiatives to the development of the park and facilities; Ensuring capture and treatment of run-off from sporting fields, vehicle access roads, car parks and roof structures; Ensuring WSUD treatments are used as an integrated design element and seeking opportunities to irrigate vegetation, and recreate wetlands and riparian habitats; Using permeable paving where practicable; Using hit and miss kerbs / flush kerbs where possible to direct water to rain gardens and bioswales; Incorporating precinct storm water catchment and treatment wetland within the landscape concept; and Reusing site water wherever possible in the irrigation of playing fields. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 26

28 9.9 Earthworks For the purpose of providing indicative costs for implementation, earthworks for each major element of the plan allows for +/- 1 metre. More thorough investigation will be required in detailed design, and this guidance is a starting point to allow sufficient funds for leveling of key areas. The following pages include the landscape concept plan and three building concepts for the main pavilion, soccer pavilion and sports stadium. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 27

29 Legend Connection to Lake Lorne Vegetation Corridor Water Treatment & Storage Anderson s Road an Primary Bio-Filtration Drainage Swale d Future B y-pass Grass Athletics Track Future 30m widening and angle parking (refer page 28) Fire Training Track Synthetic Athletics Track a Drive Netball / Tennis Courts Football / Cricket Oval Peninsu l Soccer / Rugby / Touch Fields Shared internal trail loop with exercise stations Pavilion Shared Use Path 112 St Ignatius Secondary College Roa d Pedestrian Access St Thomas Primary School Gru Road Crossings Carpark number of carpark spaces bb Bicycle Network 80 Overflow parking on fire training track potato shed Roads Site Boundary Playground 236 Sportsfield lighting Expanded Indoor Stadium Pavilion Spectator Viewing Potential Event Infrastructure Point Cricket Nets Emergency Services Centre Potential Synthetic Fields Multi-Use Premier Level Field with Fence Council Operational Centre Potential Tertiary Development Belchers Upgraded School Oval 25m road reserve - Peninsula Drive extension 240 Bellarine Secondary College Community Nursery Multi-Use Fields Road N scale bar m Peninsula Drive Drysdale Client: City of Greater Geelong Drysdale Clifton Springs Sports Precinct Masterplan Sheet No. 1 of 1 21st April 2011 scale A3 sheet

30 Traffic management and the detailed design of intersections will be considered by Council s traffic engineers as detailed construction plans are prepared. Prioritisation and scheduling of traffic management solutions will rely on traffic counts and clear indication of need through traffic management studies. The images on the following two pages provide further detail for the master plan with regard to traffic management. The drawing to the right indicates the section of Peninsula Drive from Andersons Road down to a proposed roundabout at what is now the end of Peninsula Drive at the Bellarine Secondary College. This proposal for Peninsula Drive increases the amount of car parking for the whole precinct by formalising parallel parking on both sides of the road and adding a central diagonal parking section that is accessed via a one-way road. This is to be achieved by widening the overall road reserve, creating greater separation between the two one-way carriageways, then narrowing the road again to a two way road where it meets the roundabout. The cross-section shown below indicates how this proposed traffic management solution will look on the ground. Detailed design will include consideration of drainage requirements for the site. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 29

31 As shown in the Master Plan, it is proposed that Peninsula Drive be extended to Belchers Road so that vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists have access to the precinct from either Andersons Road or Belchers Road. The following diagram indicates how this section of the road may be constructed. The proposed Peninsula Drive extension will also require an upgrade to Belchers Road so that the increased traffic flows can be accommodated. The following diagram indicates a proposed layout for the section of Belchers Road between Grubb Road and Peninsula Drive. The design and construction of the car parking off Belchers Road will need to coincide with the construction of Belchers Road improvements when these projects come up on the capital works program as later stages. The photo image below indicates a typical crossing point to provide pedestrian access across Peninsula Drive and between the schools, Potato Shed and the sports precinct. Master Plan Report April 2011 Page 30