FAQs
examine where we are currently at in terms of our existing open space network, what the community value about it and any issues that negatively impact the current uses and future supply;
identify where we would like to be or need to be with our open space, taking into account factors such as forecasted changes in population, developments and broader environmental and social contexts; and
make recommendations on how we will get to where we want to be, including projects and actions that will protect, grow and improve the open space network. We will also focus on ensuring the open space network can sustainably meet the needs of our growing community into the future.
A connected network
This is fundamental for maximising our public space’s good condition and the environmental and social benefits such as greening, cooling effects, native animal habitat values, social spaces, equitable access and high walkability. The strategy will examine the current status of the open space network within Whitehorse and identify gaps and opportunities to build a connected green network. It will also be working with the Metropolitan Melbourne Open Space Strategy currently in development to look at opportunities of connecting into the open space network in the broader context.
Equitable access
The strategy should encompass aspects including even open space distribution and connectedness while supporting the needs of diverse demographics. The strategy will use contemporary qualitative and quantitative measures to analyse current accessibility and recommend actions to improve equitable access.
Looking at our needs over the next 15 years
Informed by forecasted growth and anticipated environmental and social challenges over the next 15 years, the strategy will analyse the current types, functions and scales of public open space and look at how to maintain and enhance them and overcome shortfalls. The strategy will also look at the issues with multi-uses in open spaces.
Environmental and climate concerns
It will serve as a key strategic document to guide us on how open spaces can be prepared to withstand/thrive in the increasingly harsh climatic conditions and extreme weather events. We will also look at how open spaces can help maintain and enhance the health and wellbeing of our residents, flora and fauna.
Pandemic-related changes to how we use open space
Amplified by the pandemic, there are increasing demands to recreate, exercise and socialise within our local neighbourhood. The strategy will look at how we can meet the increasing demand with finite resources including permanent park facilities and place making initiatives.
Public open space funding
The strategy will enhance the funding opportunities and processes for future works through public open space contributions or other funding sources.
Forming partnerships for open space owned by other authorities
The strategy will enhance our framework to encourage partnerships and collaborations with other land managers and community groups to protect, grow and improve our open space network innovatively.Finer details of open space design
Locations of small items like rubbish bins, internal footpaths, garden beds and trees (although it will generally provide guidance on where increased levels of park infrastructure might be considered)
Prioritisation for sporting opportunities
Preference for one particular sporting opportunity over another in any one location
What is open space?
For this project, the term 'open space' refers to all the publicly owned land that is primarily set aside for recreation, passive outdoor enjoyment, leisure and nature conservation. This includes public parks, gardens, waterways and sporting reserves. Other public outdoor spaces will also be considered to complement the open space network, such as streetscapes, public areas in retail centres, outdoor space at public schools and railway land.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the traditional owners and caretakers of this land which includes all of the City of Whitehorse.
Why do we need an Open Space Strategy?
Open space plays an important role in the health and wellbeing of our community and supports biodiversity and a healthy environment. We need to holistically and strategically plan for the protection, growth, improvement and management of the open space network in our municipality.
Approximately 10.8% of Whitehorse is made up of diverse parks and gardens, creek corridors and culturally significant areas. The Whitehorse Open Space Strategy will guide the future supply, design and management of open space over the next 15 years with ongoing monitoring and intermittent reviews. The Strategy will also:
In addition, our population has grown by more than 25,000 people since our existing strategy was developed in 2007, changing the way we use and need open spaces.
Over the past few years, the pandemic has also significantly changed the way we live and how we use open space, especially at a local level.
What key considerations will be addressed by the Open Space Strategy?
Key considerations that are NOT part of this strategy include:
How can open space help with environmental challenges such as the urban heat island effect, biodiversity loss and climate change?
‘Heat islands effect’ are urbanised areas that experience higher temperatures than rural areas. Structures such as buildings, roads, and other infrastructure absorb and re-emit the sun's heat more than natural landscapes such as forests and water bodies.
With the expansion of highly urbanised suburbs and greenhouse gas produced by industrial activities and transport at an unprecedented rate, the planet is experiencing significant negative impacts such as biodiversity loss and climate change impacting the health and wellbeing of both human beings, animals and plants.
Open spaces and nature-based solutions are increasingly recognised as an important tool to tackle challenges such as the health and wellbeing of urban residents, the heat island effect, biodiversity loss and climate change in the past decade. Considerable research and studies globally have proven the various benefits afforded by green open spaces.
How will recommended actions be funded?
Funding for open space creation, development and management is supported by a combination of general rate revenue, open space contributions by developers and government grants.
Based on the type of recommended actions, appropriate funding sources will be allocated.
You will have the opportunity to review and provide feedback on the recommendations and proposed potential funding sources when they are presented in the draft Open Space Strategy for the second round of community consultation in 2023.
When should we expect the recommended actions to be implemented?
The strategy will make recommendations on the priority of proposed actions. The exact timing each action will be implemented is subject to funding allocation for each project in Council's annual budget which is presented to the community for feedback prior to adoption each financial year.
Purchasing/sourcing of land, planning and/or detailed design for each project will also include further engagement with the community and key stakeholders.