Larissa Avenue Park

The Urban Initiatives-led consultation for the design of Ringwood’s Larissa Park revealed that local residents, some from the nearby housing co-operative who did not have their own gardens, were looking to this new open space for multiple opportunities: from passive recreation through to increased community connection. For Urban Initiatives, the integration of Water-Sensitive Urban Design initiatives was key to the ultimate success of this park, given its proximity to the Mullum Mullum Creek.

The design of this community park encompassed activation strategies, streetscape improvements, shared-path integration with the surrounding networks, stormwater management and filtration. In collaboration with Aquatic Systems Management, Urban Initiatives designed raingardens, bio-swales and porous pavements into the streetscape. These measures significantly improved the quality of road runoff prior to entering the creek and assisted with the control of overland flows, ultimately reducing flooding risks.

Powerlines previously located overhead were re-laid underground, clearing space for the shade and amenity provided by larger tree canopies. Strategic traffic management measures were implemented to ensure a safe environment for pedestrians and cyclists connecting to the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail.

The park includes a community garden with bush foods, perennial herbs and fruit trees. All edible plants are irrigated from the large underground tank that captures and treats the stormwater.