The City of Port Phillip's decision to proceed with the $15 million redevelopment of the Lagoon Reserve, made at the Council meeting on July 19, 2023, has sparked a variety of responses from the local community. While the project promises significant enhancements to the area's recreational and sporting facilities, it also raises concerns about the impact on daily users of the reserve.

The redevelopment is a response to long-standing issues with the reserve's sports ground. The uneven and potentially dangerous surface has led to a decrease in its usage by sports clubs. Once a home to three sports clubs, only one club currently uses the grounds due to the risk of injury. The project, first identified in 2013, aims to address these issues by providing a high-performing surface with new irrigation, drainage, and playing surfaces.

However, the redevelopment also means that the reserve will be closed to the public for approximately six months, starting from November 2023. This has raised concerns among daily users of the reserve, particularly dog walkers. While the City of Port Phillip has identified nearby parks such as Edwards Park and Gasworks Park as alternative spaces, the temporary closure of the reserve will undoubtedly disrupt the routines of many residents.

Alex Makin, a Port Melbourne resident, spoke at the council meeting on July 19. He said, “I appreciate the dilemma that council has in trying to accommodate multiple users of our reserves. However, we are in a situation where, according to Council's own reports, the number of dog users is growing and the pressure on those reserves for off leash usage of dogs is also increasing”.

The project has also sparked a debate about the use of public spaces. A petition against the redevelopment was signed by 832 residents, indicating a significant portion of the community was not in favour of the project. The petition highlighted concerns about noise pollution, parking availability, and the repurposing of common green space.

The City of Port Phillip has acknowledged these concerns and has committed to mitigating potential impacts during construction. A noise and vibration impact assessment and management plan has been prepared, which includes active monitoring and regular reviews during construction.

The redevelopment of Lagoon Reserve is a complex issue that involves balancing the needs and concerns of various user groups. While the project promises to enhance the community's sporting and recreational facilities, it also underscores the challenges of managing public spaces in a way that caters to everyone. As the project moves forward, ongoing dialogue and engagement with the community will be crucial to ensuring that the redevelopment benefits all residents.

Image: Lagoon Reserve in Port Melbourne provides sporting facilities, playground and off leash area for dogs.