Case Studies
Hilton Pocket Park
Design Feature
Type of project
Playground, Local Government Initiative
State
Western Australia
Location
Urban
In 2015, the City of Fremantle adopted the Greening Fremantle Strategy 2020, which sets out the key strategic plan and objectives for a greener community. A key objective within this strategy is for every worker and resident to be within walking distance (400 metres) of useable public green space for their enjoyment. Through extensive consultation and research, Hilton was identified as one of the priority suburbs in the strategy, and a section of the suburb was then selected as the site for a pocket park.
A community approach to public open space
The Hilton pocket park presents several realistic approaches to improve planning for public open space within a small budget. Both the design methodology and community engagement approach represent innovative methods which could be applied to a range of locations and projects.
In 2014, Council formed a working group comprising elected officials, and community members with relevant professional backgrounds, to direct the project. In developing the strategy and its priorities, mapping analysis was undertaken to identify the gaps in public green space across the city. This site identification involved detailed ‘real’ walkable catchment mapping and analysis with a 10-point assessment/feasibility matrix.
From this process, a section of residential Hilton and commercial/industrial O’Conner was identified.
From this process, a section of residential Hilton and commercial/industrial O’Conner was identified.
It was noted that planning policy and controls were a barrier to change, as they would not support public open space in these areas. The working group therefore analysed different ways to develop open space for these communities, and it was proposed that an unused section of a cul de sac in Clarke Street, Hilton, if developed as a small pocket park, would benefit the workers and residents in this area.
This idea was tested creatively with the community and proved to be highly supported. The community consultation and engagement for this project was detailed and specific to the locals who would be using it. For example, the process included providing an overview of the implementation and specific details of the project (including its key components) to residents. Furthermore, demographic analysis and talking to the residents showed a high number of families with children, so engagement was also tailored for children (design workshop) as well as a community ‘walk around’ session, online survey and design workshop with planners and landscape architects.
The project concept design was developed from engagement feedback, and the community remained informed in the coordination of construction drawings, quotes and construction. The park was completed in December 2017 and included a well-attended community planting day.
By combining a creative approach to site identification, and an innovative way of engaging with the community, the neighbourhood now benefits from a public open space in a walkable catchment from their homes. Without the approach used in this project, currently planning policy would not have delivered this positive outcome.
The project concept design was developed from engagement feedback, and the community remained informed in the coordination of construction drawings, quotes and construction. The park was completed in December 2017 and included a well-attended community planting day.
By combining a creative approach to site identification, and an innovative way of engaging with the community, the neighbourhood now benefits from a public open space in a walkable catchment from their homes. Without the approach used in this project, currently planning policy would not have delivered this positive outcome.
Project team
- City of Fremantle Strategic Planning, Engagement and Parks and Landscapes teams
- Josh Byrne and Associates – Landscape Architecture
Project Cost
$50,000
Health Value
- The park offers health value via the provision of an active recreation space in a previously underutilised area.
- Local residents are provided with space in which physical, social, education and community activities can occur – a facility that was previously inaccessible.
Economic value
The increased amenity could positively influence property values in the area.
Environmental Value
- In accordance with the City of Fremantle’s One Planet Strategy, the park was constructed using sustainable and recycled materials.
- Native and water wise plants, and a water wise reticulation system were included in the design.
Social value
- The unique and comprehensive community engagement strategy for this project has offered a number of social outcomes including building capacity and empowering local residents. It has also built social capital and resilience among the community.
- The process and completed park have provided opportunities and spaces for social connection and engagement.
- Following construction of the park, the local community crowd-funded for several extra features including a shade shelter, herb/vegetable planter boxes and book-share box, which were then installed by the City.
Use value
- The park provides opportunities for locals to engage in health behaviours and host community events
- The project has improved a blighted site of unused road reserve
- The project strategy has provided a framework, or guide for community consultation and planning of future projects.
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