Travancore Park update

Travancore Park upgrade

A new 3 metre wide concrete path along the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail in Travancore Park is now open.

The path, with a centre line marking, runs along the edge of the Moonee Ponds Creek at the top of the embankment and separates cyclists from walkers. The new path also provides separation between path users and dogs.

Other upgrades include:

• replacing the existing chain mesh fence with a safer post and rail chain mesh fence
• installing a new barrier fence between the new shared path and the steep creek embankment for cyclist safety
• creating a new path link between Myrnong Crescent and the new shared path
• realigning the southern end of the internal path to allow more space between path users and dogs
• relocation of seating to a more shaded location
• installing an additional water fountain and relocate the existing drinking fountain and dog bowl to a more central location in the park

• replacing and planting additional trees to replace the eight trees that were removed as part of the shared path upgrade.

Travancore Park is an important area of open space and it was imperative to develop an outcome that is the right long-term decision for all park users. We developed the final shared path alignment through an extensive stakeholder and community consultation process, including public meetings and 'walkshops' on site, as well as advice from an external reference group made up of local residents and organisations.

Stage 2 Shared Path Assessment

As previously committed, Stage Two of the project has now been completed including an independent investigation for the continuation of the new shared path towards Mount Alexander Road. The investigation explored three alignment options east of the sound walls, with the preferred route extending approximately 500 metres and reconnecting to the existing shared path to the south of the Alt Tower.

Notwithstanding, the investigation found that all options while feasible presented a number of significant issues. Most notably the preferred option would require the removal of over 100 trees of various maturity. This does not align with Council’s MV2040 Strategy to protect and increase tree canopy cover and vegetation diversity in reserves and on private land. Another major issue is that a shared path running in close proximity to the Moonee Ponds Creek channel (where the embankment is shallower) would present a significant flooding risk and may not meet flooding requirements. Given the limited time travel time benefits, likely substantial construction costs and the need to prioritise other sections of the shared path to upgrade to meet safety requirements, officers will not be pursuing the extension of the shared path in the near future.

We are committed to upgrading our shared paths to the highest possible standard and will continue to develop a number of projects that will improve safety and accessibility for all shared path users.