- Published:
- Saturday 4 June 2022
Five spectacular new lookouts will be built in northern Melbourne’s Plenty Gorge Park as part of a major new trail along the Plenty River.
Minister for Energy Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio today revealed the final designs for the Plenty River Trail linking the Bundoora RMIT campus and Doreen.
The Trail is part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $315 million Suburban Parks Program, that’s delivering 6500 hectares of new and upgraded, accessible green space for Melbourne’s growing outer suburbs.
The design of the $19.3 million Plenty River Trail was developed through extensive consultation and will enable more people to experience the stunning landscapes and wildlife of the park, including wetlands, native bush and historic sites.
In addition to the five new lookouts, two new bridges will be built over the river and a third, Maroondah Aqueduct Pipe Bridge will be refurbished. New signs and information boards highlighting the park’s natural and cultural heritage will be installed.
The trail will also connect to the Mernda Railway Station and Hawkstowe Railway Station through a mix of new and refurbished paths. Giving residents in Melbourne’s North more active transport options for the commute to their local train station or to explore their neighbourhood.
Additional to the trail, the Labor Government is also funding an $800,000 upgrade to Hawkstowe Picnic Area and $383,500 upgrade to Nioka Bush Camp that will improve accessibility to the park, for people of all abilities to enjoy.
The final plans have been developed by lead consultant firms TCL and Cardno informed by consultation process with Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Traditional Owners, the local community, councils and other stakeholders.
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“This new trail is going to be a great asset for our community, enabling all of us to appreciate the wonderful native wildlife and plants that call Plenty Gorge Park home.”
Quote attributable to Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green
“Seeing these designs finalised is another welcome step towards realising a really exciting project that will connect our community with great opportunities for cycling, walking and exploring the natural world.”
Quote attributable Member for Bundoora Colin Brooks
“The Plenty River Trail is such a great place to escape the city and enjoy nature, and I look forward to exploring the new trails with all the locals and visitors who use the park.”