Your voice can shape the future of local parks and reserves
Published on 23 December 2025
The City of Whittlesea is inviting the community to help shape the future of parks, reserves and public spaces by providing feedback on the draft Public Open Space Plan 2026-36.
Endorsed for community consultation at the Council Meeting on Tuesday 16 December, the draft plan sets a clear vision for how our public open spaces will grow and improve over the next 10 years.
Across 489 square kilometres, Council manages a large and diverse public open space network, including urban spaces such as streetscapes, town centres, plus public art and heritage stone walls. The network includes 2,364 hectares of green parks and waterways, featuring 75 conservation bushland reserves, 50 sports and leisure precincts, 12 off-leash dog parks and 256 play spaces. With our population continuing to grow, it is essential that these spaces remain welcoming, sustainable, and equipped to meet the needs of our community.
The draft plan focuses on:
- creating and maintaining high-quality open spaces that are safe, connected and welcoming for everyone, by working with the community and partners
- supporting community health and wellbeing through spaces that encourage physical activity, mental health and cultural connection
- protecting biodiversity by caring for our waterways, plants and animals, especially those threatened and endangered
- planning for climate change by delivering cooler, greener and water-sensitive environments
- delivering economic and social benefits by boosting tourism, property values and community vibrancy.
The draft plan draws on what the community has told us about the importance of green spaces, playgrounds and recreation areas. It also incorporates Traditional Owner insights and expert advice in ecology, climate resilience, community health and wellbeing and public space design.
Have your say
You can visit the Engage Whittlesea website from 18 December 2025 to 15 February 2026 to view the plan and complete a short survey. You can also come along to in-person pop-ups in your local area – locations are available on the website.
The proposed works and initiatives in the 10-year draft Public Open Space Plan 2026-36 are subject to future funding.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Lawrie Cox:
“Our vision is to create welcoming, well-designed public spaces that support healthy lifestyles and protect our natural environment. We want everyone to have great open spaces close to home, places to connect with nature and be active. Your feedback on the draft Public Open Space Plan will help us shape spaces that reflect what our community values most.
“The draft Public Open Space Plan sets the foundation for a future where nature and people thrive together. We have such remarkable landscapes and natural places in the City of Whittlesea and we are committed to creating welcoming and vibrant spaces that are accessible, inclusive and sustainable for everyone.
“The draft Public Open Space Plan will guide us to create greener, cooler and more accessible parks, trails and town centres that are vibrant, safe and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities.
“By enhancing open space with great facilities, public art, events and activities, and having input from our residents, we are creating places our community is proud to live in now and into the future. Remember, the City of Whittlesea is a place for all.”