Royal Park Masterplan

Well, the Royal Park Masterplan has been lodged with some amendments, and it can be found on the Participate Melbourne website under Royal Park Master Plan.

Following former City of Melbourne councillor Rohan Leppert’s intervention, several points were made and to be considered. From those points that the Parkville community and Royal Park groups highlighted, not a lot has changed, so it is important that as many people as possible read and comment on the proposals.

The consultation period is open until February 25, 2025, which is three months. While it appears to be a lengthy time, clearly over Christmas and New Year a lot of time at the council and for residents will be taken up by holidays!

There will have to be compromises as we can’t have all of our wishes however, speaking on behalf of most locals, we feel that Royal Park under the 1998 plan focused on a bush park in the centre of Melbourne to be the lungs of the city, and for all residents to experience the beauty of Australian nature.

The flora and fauna have been assisted by the great work of the Royal Park Protection Group and Friends of Royal Park and naturally they are most concerned about the outcome.

We believe the park is there to share but not filled with sporting ovals, concrete footpaths, coffee shops and barbeques! Enough said, read and write! We will also be holding local meetings to hear views from all.

Chris Nicholson, a senior Serco employee who held the responsibility for Royal Park as horticulture and supervisory manager, has just left to take up a senior role with a local council. To Chris, from all of us, thanks for your great and passionate stewardship of the park over the last 12 years. A great community man and amazing passion for our special park!

Meanwhile down the road in Town Hall Nick Reece has been elected Lord Mayor! Many congratulations, as from a personal point of view I have always found Nick to be supportive and amazingly accessible. A mixed council, and I repeat my offer to all councillors to take a walk around the suburb and our Royal Park so you know where it is!!

Recently I mentioned the poor safety at the Morrah Street tram stop. Cars not stopping , pedestrians walking against non-synchronised lights, and bikes being ridden over the crossing! Along with Trinity College this matter has been taken up with the Minister; hopefully we get things moving quickly!!

The Parkville Association will have held the Party in the Park as you read this. We know we have a great community so let’s hope the weather gods stepped in and let us have a great day!

To all, seasons greetings, and be in touch in 2025! •