| Project value |
$1.2 million |
| Project schedule |
May to September 2026 |
| Contractor name |
Simpson Construction |
Renewal works began on 4 May 2026 at the Thomson Water Gardens in Footscray Park.
The Water Gardens were built in the 1930s and must be updated to meet modern safety requirements.
Following a series of investigations, approvals from Heritage Victoria and a rigorous tender process, Council has awarded the contract for the works to Simpson Construction.
The repairs are sensitive to the heritage nature of the park and address safety concerns - supporting the long-term management of the site.
Details of works
The works will include:
- Repairs to the timber arbours
- Patch repairs to the pond structures
- Construction of a new shallow perimeter in the ponds
- Installation of fountains, pumps and filters
- Landscaping and plantings
Timing and impact of works
The ponds will remain closed during construction and signed detours will be in place as needed.
The contractor is cleaning out the ponds and completing crack repairs from mid-May and the pond works are expected to be complete by August.
Arbour works will begin in July, and landscaping works will begin in August.
FAQs
What is being changed?
The ponds are gaining a shallow outer shelf to ensure they meet modern safety standards and new fountains and filters to improve water quality. The current look of the ponds will remain.
Will the works impact the heritage value of the site?
No. The project has been carefully developed in consultation with Heritage Victoria, and all works are designed to be sensitive to the heritage significance of the Water Gardens while restoring key features.
How is safety being addressed?
Safety is a key focus of the project. The works respond directly to safety audit requirements, including design measures such as a new shallow pond edge.
The designs follow Safety in Design principles and will be independently reviewed during construction.
How can I stay up to date with these works?
This web page will be updates throughout the works and key milestones may be shared through Council other channels.