City of Melbourne releases latest concept designs for the Kensington Community Recreation Centre
The City of Melbourne recently put a call out to the community of Kensington to gather ideas and suggestions for the revitalisation of the local recreation centre. The first design iteration has been released, taking on board the requests from the community for more flexible spaces, additional multi-purpose sports courts and a refurbished pool area.
“These concepts showcase the community’s ideas and vision for a state-of-the-art centre that remains affordable, accessible and relevant to our community.”
Councillor Beverley Pinder, Chair of the People City portfolio
The centre has been a part of the community since 1976, so the new improvements will aim to bring the loved centre into the modern day with sustainable features, better accessibility and more thoughtful integration with JJ Holland Park.
In keeping with the city’s sustainability goals, the project has had a number of eco-conscious additions included in the plan. These include solar panels, a vertical garden along the Altona Street frontage, more efficient heating and cooling systems, external shading to conserve energy, double glazed joinery, upgraded insulation (beyond minimum requirements) and greater water conservation systems.
Kensington Community Recreation Centre will also undergo a series of facility upgrades including a new 25-metre pool, disability ramp access into the pool, an additional swimming lane, a state-of-the-art filtration/water treatment system, a water play area for children and refurbished changing areas. Other on-site facilities will include three full-sized sports courts, additional changing areas, 4 and 8-metre running areas, more flexible spaces for use by community groups and classes, and additional bicycle parking.
Each of the 400+ requests made by the public has been taken into consideration when completing phase one of the centre’s redesign. Councillor Beverley Pinder believes it’s important for the community to be involved in the decision-making process and encourages people to share their opinions.
“This is an important centre for many people in our community, and I want to thank everyone who has shared their ideas. We’ve listened to your input and included many of your ideas in these concepts… I strongly encourage everyone who uses the centre and neighbouring residents to view the concepts and tell us what you think.”
The centre will be funded via a $1.2 million allocation from the Annual Plan and budget 2019-20. Construction is expected to take anywhere up to 18 months and is anticipated to begin early 2021.
Lead image: Concept sketch of the Kensington Community Recreation Centre. Credit: City of Melbourne.