Community input sought for Fawckner Dve precinct redevelopment

By Simon Ruppert

Feb 3, 2023

Big plans: This is a concept design showing one of the possible options for the redevelopment of the Fawckner Dve precinct. The different areas are explained in this article. Photo by Contributed

Benalla Rural City Council is seeking community input for the redevelopment of the Fawckner Dve precinct.

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The precinct will provide recreational opportunities for a wide range of ages, abilities, and be suitable for bikes, scooters, skateboards, and rollerblades.

The preliminary concept plan includes an upgraded skate park, new skate plaza, pump track and spaces for a multi-purpose court, terrace seating, multi-functional active social and event spaces.

Benalla Rural City Mayor Bernie Hearn said the proposed Fawckner Drive Precinct Plan would be a real asset for our town.

“We expect to receive strong support from the local community, with a particular interest from the youth of Benalla,” Cr Hearn said.

An on-site face-to-face consultation with contracted design experts Playce took place on Saturday, January 28 at the skate park.

The council and Playce have come up with some ideas as a starting point. The graphic attached to this article shows one option.

In it there are 10 different elements:

Upgraded skate park: Upgrade of existing skate park, this area is geared more towards BMX and other wheel play, upgrading of older steel elements to more contemporary style
New skate plaza: Convert three existing half courts into a new skate plaza area with street style elements.
Multi-purposes court: Multi-purpose hard stand area featuring a full size court to replace half courts. This area converts to a space for markets and community events with a social space that includes a stage.
Terrace seating: A back drop to the stage and community space/sports court, terraces take advantage of the existing embankment to create viewing seats for games, events and concerts.
Multi-functional active social space: Modular seating and shade structures combine to create a multi-functional space that acts as a frame work for many community events.
Running and walking track: This track skirts all the active areas providing access and great running surface for the community.
Proposed social and play area: Older teen play — hangout modular seating, hammocks and nets, giant basket swing and other large play equipments.
Pump track: Upgrade of run-down pump track to include pumps, berms and other elements.
RV parking to be reconsidered: This is to be reviewed as best location for RV parking. With proposed work and community spaces being introduced this becomes a conflict between pedestrians and vehicles.
Large scale events: Lawn space and possible stage for large scale concerts, events and performances.

Community members are encouraged to offer their feedback via haveyoursay.benalla.vic.gov.au or by phoning council on 5760 2600.