Help shape plans for Ashley Park revamp

The City of Whittlesea is inviting residents to have their say on plans to revitalise the Ashley Park Recreation Reserve in Doreen. 

The project is designed to help meet the community’s growing demand for quality, purpose-built sport and leisure facilities. 

The proposed development includes: 

• construction of two competition-standard soccer pitches – one synthetic grass and one natural turf – with LED lighting
• a multipurpose community sports pavilion to support a soccer club and provide resident groups with a convenient meeting space
• a car park, public toilets, lighting and Disability Discrimination Act-compliant pathways to ensure the facilities are accessible for people of all ages and abilities. 

Residents are encouraged to share their feedback on the overall plan, as well as the features they would like to see in the reserve’s new playground, fitness area and sports court precinct. 

Feedback can be provided in-person at two upcoming community consultation sessions, or by filling out a short survey at Ashley Park Recreation Reserve Revitalisation | Engage City of Whittlesea.

Consultation sessions will be held at Ashley Park Recreation Reserve, near Soapstone Walk path, on: 

• Wednesday 3 December from 4.30pm to 6pm 
• Saturday 13 December from 10.30am to 12pm 

Responses received during the consultation period, which closes on Monday 15 December 2025, will help to inform the project’s final design. 

Delivery of this project aligns with Council’s commitments under the Mernda Strategy Plan and Mernda Development Contributions Plan to construct an open space at the reserve. 

The proposed redevelopment of Ashley Park Recreation Reserve is subject to future funding decisions. 

Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Lawrie Cox: 

“The Ashley Park Recreation Reserve revitalisation project represents a major investment by Council in the health and wellbeing of its residents. 

“Projects like this demonstrate our commitment to providing our community with the facilities they need to enjoy sport and recreation at all levels. 

“The proposal to add two new soccer pitches will give more people, particularly women and girls, the opportunity to play the sport they love. 

“I encourage people to have their say on the concept plan, either online or at one of our in-person consultation sessions, to help shape this important project.”