A contemporary neighbourhood precinct at the overlap of green spaces, sporting events and public life

The Wilson Park Precinct project is a major upgrade to Rivervale’s popular central reserve. The City of Belmont developed a vision based on the local community’s needs and has delivered a public space that is vibrant, exciting, and supportive of daily life with generous greenspace and facilities. The one hectare upgrade features a Town Square for informal events, dynamic play spaces and spectator seating all connected by a wide pedestrian promenade. The landscape design draws references from the surrounding context including the Derbarl Yerrigan River and combines these with the engaging geometries of play and sport.

Ecoscape’s role in the project began with the detailed design phase building on prior master planning and engagement work. A consistent theme that emerged through the early engagement was the creation of a ‘Heart’ that could improve connections between the various spaces and uses.

The theme was further developed by Ecoscape with the Belmont Aboriginal Reference Group, local Aboriginal participants and facilitator, Think Culture in a series of workshops. The outcomes were used to enrich the design and provide recognition of the Reserve’s historic use as an Aboriginal Camp. Themes such as the river Derbarl Yerrigan, family Moort and the idea of ‘coming-together’ in celebration guided inspiration for the landscape design, public artwork and interpretive signage.