Update on facilities at Footscray Park – Western Lawn and Playground

Published on 12 April 2023

We know our community values open space and facilities like playgrounds, and that Footscray Park is one of our most well-loved spaces for residents and visitors.

The Western Lawn was closed to the public late last year to enable a multi-million dollar upgrade that would support an increase in a range of cultural, recreational and sporting opportunities at Footscray Park.

The start of these works were delayed as a result of the floodwater inundation across the area during the October flood event which closed a number of our parks and reserves for some months.

Given the site’s history, we had anticipated some level of soil contamination and planned to remove soil as part of the reconstruction to improve drainage.

Post the flood, we have also been faced with the additional challenge of dealing with a layer of silt between one and five centimetres thick that was deposited across the entire site.

Geotechnical investigations undertaken by Council at the commencement of the project, have been further reviewed and additional testing undertaken to understand appropriate management. This includes ensuring this material is appropriately classified and categorised for disposal, if required.

We are anticipating further soil sample results later this week to assist with our planning, but results to date indicate no additional health risks that were not already advised at the time of the flood, when visitors were asked to wash their hands and not picnic on the lawn.

Despite this delay, Council is still aiming to have the grass laid to take advantage of the peak growing season to be able to return an improved Western Lawn to the community by December 2023.

Another well-loved asset impacted by the floods was the playground at Footscray Park, with damage to several sections of the boundary fence, various play equipment, and the ground coverings. Temporary fencing remains in place until we can address the damage from the flood to ensure the safety of those who use the space.

The ponds remain fenced off following two tragic accidents that occurred in 2021 that are still under investigation by the Coroner. As with the Western Lawn, we ask that the community does not enter areas where temporary fences are in place.