What is a Master Plan and why is it needed?

    A Master Plan for a reserve is a comprehensive document that holistically look at the site and outlines the vision, goals, issues and opportunities, and recommended actions to guide future development and improvements of the site.  The master plan will seek to understand the community needs and expectations for Bennettswood Reserve and how best to respond to them. The recommendations will help guide Council’s decision making towards future investments in the next 10-15 years.

    Who can share their ideas for Bennettswood Reserve Master Plan?

    We encourage a diverse range of users sharing their ideas such as residents, sports club users, visitors, local schools, local organisations, associations, and business.  The goal is to create an inclusive environment where different voices are heard, ensuring that the Bennettswood Reserve Master Plan reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of the community.

    What will you do with the community’s ideas?

    Your feedback will help inform the development of the Master Plan, which will aim to maximise use of the site for sporting and community groups as well as the wider community. Following this, a second round of engagement will be held to seek community feedback on the draft Master Plan.

    When will the draft Master Plan be ready?

    The draft master plan will be prepared following community and stakeholder consultation and site investigations. The completion of the draft master plan is currently planned for late 2024.

    Will there be an opportunity to give feedback on the draft Master Plan?

    You will have the opportunity to review and provide feedback on the draft Master Plan when they are presented in the second round of community consultation in early 2025.

    Who owns the land at Bennettswood Reserve?

    Bennettswood Reserve is made up of land owned by three parties.

    Council owns the entire of South Oval. The North Oval is partially Crown Land (Federal Government) and partially owned by Deakin University. The remainder of the site is owned by Council. Please refer to the indicative diagram below for more information on land ownership.