Exhibition Item

To address the increasing demand on the existing recreational area and facilities we are proposing to construct a shared pathway from Hillgate drive to Allan and Don Lawrence Sports Fields linking Chisholm to Thornton providing an all-weather pedestrian and cycleway thoroughfare. Works will also include additional all weather accessible carparking area that includes approximately 114 spaces to minimise street congestion and ensure adequate spaces for all park users. 

Shared path Construction:

• Objective: To provide an all-weather accessible shared pathway that links Chisholm to Thornton. This section will pick up the balance of existing footpath network that will formalise all weather access for residents to the sports field and eventually through to Thornton Shopping Centre. Promoting active walking and cycling activities.
• Details: Construct approximately 190m of reinforced concrete shared path 2.5m wide as per MCC SD 020. From Hillgate Drive to the internal road of Allan and Don Lawrence Oval Thornton. .
• Benefits: This will significantly improve the all-weather accessibility across the existing recreation area identified as Allan and Don Lawrence Oval from Hillgate Drive. The new shared path will Link neighbourhoods, school, transits stops parks and workplaces supporting children, seniors and people with disabilities supporting walking cycling and rolling (scooters) recreation. It will provide a link from Chisholm to Thomas Coke drive and will attract recreational users for walking and cycling complimenting public transport by making stations and bus stops easer to reach. 

Proposed new Carparking Area:

• Objective: To construct an additional designated area for carparking to minimise street congestion, and ensuring adequate parking spaces for all users including those with disabilities - making it safer for pedestrian and cyclists. This will also help traffic flow and management, improve user experience, offer accessibility options whilst considering safety and security .
• Details: Provide an all-weather formalised accessible carpark area that includes approximately 114 carparking spaces,  facilitating continuous traffic flow and vehicle thoroughfare and assists in capacity management .
• Benefits:  Increasing the existing carpark will significantly enhance the functionality of the recreational facility and user experience. It will accommodate a larger number of visitors and reduce the need to search for car parking spaces in nearby areas.

The proposed changes are designed to facilitate future expansion or improvements to the existing recreation facility. Enhancing the existing facility with a larger carpark and weather accessible shared paths not only improves access and user experience but also contributes to the overall facility sustainability and recreation potential. The carpark will accommodate a larger number of visitors especially during peak times such as weekends or holidays as well as creating a more efficient and safer road and carparking network, benefiting residents, commuters, and patronage to the area.