By Bonny Burrows
Works are underway to uphold a 40-year-old council promise to use Deep Creek Reserve for recreational, not development purposes.
Cardinia Shire Council has begun groundworks on the 48-hectare greenfield site on Pakenham’s Cameron Way, which was transferred to the shire in 1977 by a number of farmers on the condition it would be used for recreation.
Plans for the grounds, which include an all-abilities playground, walking trails and vast community gardens and wetlands indicate the council is working towards fulfilling this promise.
But there was a time when the council’s intention for the land’s use was questioned.
In 2005 an argument ensued after a planning permit proposed rezoning the land for residential development.
Strong community opposition followed, leading to then Planning Minister Justin Madden overturning the decision.
And on 5 July 2017, construction on the $10.3 million site began, with a vision to transform the land into “an important recreational and natural asset”.
Initial works now underway include weed removal, drain improvements, vegetation protection and earthworks.
Cardinia Shire Council Deputy Mayor Jodie Owen said once completed, the reserve could be used by all residents for a range of recreational purposes.
“This community facility will provide our community with a focus on all access for all abilities and all ages, environmental education opportunities, and passive and active recreation, with walking trails, regional play space, barbecue area and community gardens,” councillor Owen said.
Member for Eastern Victoria Daniel Mulino, who turned the first sod at the beginning of site works with Cr Owen, said the project would create a new community space which also protected and improved the region’s biodiversity.
“The Deep Creek Reserve upgrade is a fantastic result for the Pakenham community, who now have a great community resource,” Mr Mulino said.
The project was funded through a $7.5 million Cardinia Shire Council contribution through its Capital Works Program and a $2.825 million State Government Grant through its Growing Suburbs Fund.
While no exact timeline has been set, the reserve will be the council’s major project over the next five years.
