by Laura Michell
A visitor information centre, children’s garden and viewing deck are among the additions proposed for the Melton Botanic Garden as part of an updated master plan for the site.
Tabled at the August 25 council meeting, the master plan outlines the ongoing development of the botanic garden and maintenance requirements.
With the first master plan for the site created in 2009, the new plan acts as a review now that the garden is about 80 per cent complete.
Among the updates made to the master plan is a recommendation that a feasibility study is undertaken to support future grant or partnership funding opportunities for the design and delivery of a visitor information centre.
A report to the council meeting stated that the centre was a key element of the original master plan.
“The purpose of the Melton Botanic Garden Visitor Centre would be to promote education, host events and seminars, provide a meeting venue for Melton community groups particularly environment groups such as the Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden, Eynesbury Environment Group, Melton Garden Club, Australian Plant Society (APS) Melton and Bacchus Marsh,” the report stated.
“The centre would also have the capacity to be leased or hired for special functions/seminars conducted by council.”
The report stated it was expected that a feasibility study could cost about $80,000 and would need to be considered as part of council’s future budget deliberations.
“It is anticipated that funding for design and construction of a centre would be subject to external grant funding,” the report stated.
Other updates included the construction of a viewing deck along the the northern edge of Lake Darlingsford to further enhance the playspace and rest area for visitors; construction of a children’s garden associated with the Melton Botanic Garden Centre, in consultation with the Friends of Melton Botanic Garden, car parking investigations, a lighting assessment, and the installation of seating.
Councillor Sophie Ramsey said the updated master plan would ensure the “treasured” garden would continue to thrive.
“The updated plan will allow for the ongoing development of the garden and ensure any future planning meets the needs and expectations of our community,” she said.
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