By Matthew Sims
The State Government has announced it would contribute $250,000 to Cardinia Council for an upgrade to Jim Parkes Reserve in Beaconsfield as part of its Growing Suburbs Fund.
The project was one of 14 projects set to receive funding, including $287,100 to Casey Council for the renewal of Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House and Community Centre in Berwick South.
The 2013 Beaconsfield Structure Plan identified Jim Parkes Reserve as a key open space within the town centre which has the potential to offer amenity to a wider spectrum of the community and become a highly valued public space in Beaconsfield.
The proposed concept plan for Jim Parkes Reserve included a senior play area, a junior play area, an outdoor exercise station, a bocce court, timber arbor seating, a composite shade sail pavilion, a dry creek bed, a deciduous urban forest, a picnic shelter and Australian native planting.
Casey Council Active Communities manager Angie Peresso said the Growing Suburbs Fund was a vital source of funding for the council.
“Council was successful in securing $287,100 in funding for the renewal of Brentwood Park Neighourhood House and Community Centre in Berwick South,“ she said.
“Proposed works include an upgrade of the main hall and playgroup room spaces, which are currently utilised for intergenerational services, sports and exercise classes, community cultural events, social programs and private functions.
“The renewal works will allow for an increase in capacity at Brentwood Park Neighourhood House and Community Centre, allowing more residents to connect with their community and access health, wellbeing and development services and programs.“
Following a detailed design and tender phase, construction was expected to commence January 2025 and was estimated to take about six months to complete.
Casey Council would contribute $287,100 towards the renewal project, as well as $52,000 for design, which was included as part of the 2023/24 Council Budget.
Cardinia Council Active and Connected Communities manager Michael Casey said the council welcomed the funding announcement.
“To revitalise and improve the access and useability of Jim Parkes Reserve, council plans to complete upgrades, such as installing a new play space, shelters, seating, BBQ facilities landscaping and improving drainage,” he said.
“Located within the Beaconsfield town centre, this project will support positive social, emotional, and physical outcomes for the local community and encourage visitors to shop locally and support local businesses.
“In partnership with the Growing Suburbs Fund, Council will contribute $250,000 towards the project, with works expected to start in June and be completed by the end of 2024.”
