Open Space and Public Place Plan - City of West Torrens - SA.Gov.au

Open Space and Public Place Plan
Draft for Consultation 22 February to 22 March 2013
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Access to Document
This document has been prepared by the City
of West Torrens. You may access copies of
this document from Council's website at
www.westtorrens.sa.gov.au. You may
download and print this document in unaltered
form, only for your personal use or use by your
organisation.
Copyright
This document is based on work by Council
and other authors as cited. Apart from any
permitted uses under the Copyright Act 1968,
the work may be reproduced for study or
training purposes, provided the source is
acknowledged. Reproduction for commercial
use requires prior written permission of the
Council and the various sources cited.
Document History
Version Date Details Author Approver
1.0 9.10.12 Draft for internal Council Review URPS/WAX Project
Manager
1.1 05.02.13 Draft for Council endorsement for public
consultation
URPS/WAX Project
Manager
1.2 22.02.13 Draft for public consultation URPS/WAX Council
2.0 Amended post public consultation and adopted as
strategic document
Project
Manager
Council
Disclaimer
While reasonable efforts have been made to
ensure that the contents of this document are
factually correct, the City of West Torrens does
not accept responsibility for its accuracy or
currency. As information is subject to change,
the City of West Torrens shall not be liable for
any loss or damage that may be occur through
the use of, or reliance on, the contents of this
document.
Front Cover (and Part Covers):
Summer Festival held at the City of West
Torrens Memorial Gardens (2012).
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Production Acknowledgment
This document was produced by the City of West Torrens.
With valuable assistance from:-
• Post public consultation - insert recognition of the community's participation,
• Consultants URPS and WAX Design in researching, analysing, developing this document, and the
• Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure, Open Space Grant which made this work possible.
Kaurna Acknowledgement
The City of West Torrens acknowledges the Kaurna Aboriginal people and their descendants are still and will always be
the first peoples of the land. The City of West Torrens commits to valuing and supporting the Kaurna people’s inherent
relationship to the land.
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Message from the Mayor
With its central metropolitan location and its
proximity to the coast, West Torrens is an
appealing place to live, and this will inevitably
lead to a future of population growth and of infill
development.
It is important that we plan for this future and
thus ensure that the environmental, social,
economic and community qualities that create
our city’s appeal are not just maintained but are
also enhanced during that growth.
In serving our diverse community, Council is
committed to strive for excellence. Indeed, it is
my personal hope that the broader Adelaide
community eventually refers to our district as
being ‘the leafy western suburbs’.
This Open Space and Public Place Plan helps
deliver the Community Plan's aspirations by
providing open space and public places which
not only improve the built and natural
environments, but also create opportunities for
a healthy community life.
Hon. John Trainer
Mayor
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Table of Contents
Message from the Mayor ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Executive summary ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 6
1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
2 State Strategic Context ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 10
3 Issues Impacting Upon Open Space and Public Place ........................................................................................................................................................................... 11
4 Existing Supply and Condition of Open Space ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
5 Demand for Open Space ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
6 Strategy ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
7 Draft Action Plan ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 35
Appendix ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 46
List of Tables
Table 1: Open Space Type and Area ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 15
Table 2: Open Space Provision Comparison with other Council Areas.......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Table 3: Population Growth Scenarios for the City of West Torrens ............................................................................................................................................................. 20
List of Figures
Figure 1: Connection with Corporate Planning Framework ............................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Figure 2: Public Open Space Provision 12.5% Development Site Contrasted with 3 Hectares/1000 People ................................................................................................. 19
List of Maps
Map 1: Council Open Space ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Map 2: Non Council Open Space, Connections and Flood Prone Land .......................................................................................................................................................... 17
Map 3: Open Space Provision ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Map 4: Open Space Hierarchy ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 26
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Kings Park

Executive summary
Population growth and urban development will have a significant
bearing on how open space and public place is planned for and
used in the City of West Torrens. Planned growth will increase
demands on existing open space and public place. New forms of
housing have smaller areas of private open space, while mixing
land uses might activate streets in certain locations, and encourage
more pedestrian activity and street life.
The changing patterns of urban development and increased
densities means that public places such as squares, malls, streets
and laneways, where people move through and gather, will be of as
much importance as open space.
Projected population growth with no additional provision of open
space is conceivable but would result in a significant open space
deficit. This scenario would have significant implications for the
provision and management of open space in West Torrens as well
as impacting directly on the community's quality of life.
The Open Space and Public Place Plan outlines a vision to provide
an equitable distribution of quality open space and public place that
will benefit residents, workers and visitors, and responds to existing
and future community needs. It includes opportunities to improve
existing open space facilities and public place to achieve active,
vibrant and connected communities.
This Plan provides strategic direction and supporting actions to
deliver an open space and public place network that responds to
community needs. This includes identifying opportunities to
increase and enhance open space provision.
Public open space is the most visible indicator of the
health and vitality of our cities and by the same token the
health of our communities. The future planning and
delivery of quality open space is critical.
Warwick Keates (2011), WAX Design
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1 Introduction
1.1 Glossary
This Plan uses the following definitions:
Open space
Public place
Refers to land that is either owned or under the
control of Council and which is publically accessible
and provided for community benefit (recreation park,
linear trail, sportsground).
Refers to publically accessible places that are part of
the urban fabric (main streets, jetties, waterfronts,
building edges plazas, squares) alternatively referred
to as the public place.
1.2 Purpose of Document
Council owns, maintains and facilitates the provision of open space
for the community's benefit. Since 1997 Council has had, in one
form or another, an Open Space Strategy to identify and
strategically address open space issues. Given expected infill
development growth pressures the need for quality public place has
been incorporated into this document. The provision of open space
and quality public place also forms a key component of the
community's long term vision outlined in the Council's Community
Plan; and this Plan contributes to delivering that vision.
This Plan outlines a vision to provide an equitable distribution of
quality open space and public place that will benefit residents,
workers and visitors, and responds to existing and future
community needs. This includes opportunities to improve existing
open space facilities and public place to achieve active, vibrant and
connected communities.
This Plan will aid in directing infrastructure and service provision
planning, asset management and supporting funding requests.
While a public document, the primary audiences of this Plan include
but are not limited to;
• All open space and public place users, professionals,
leasees and providers (governmental, commercial and
community),
• State and Local Government officers involved in physical
and social infrastructure provision,
• Professionals who impact upon the built environment
including; planners, development assessment officers,
builders, engineers, and
• Professionals involved in community development.
1.3 Structure of Plan
This Plan provides strategic direction and supporting actions to
deliver an open space and public place network that responds to
community needs. The components of the Plan are;
• State Strategic Context
• Issues Impacting Upon Open Space and Public Place
• Existing Supply and Condition of Open Space
• Demand for Open Space
• Strategies, and
• Actions.
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1.4 Delivering the Community Plan's Vision
The City of West Torrens Community Plan represents the
community's long term vision and aspirations. With regard open
space and public place the Community Plan states;
Open space is a valuable part of the urban environment, catering for
a range of active and passive recreational uses by the community, as
well as enhancing the character of the area. Currently, about six per
cent of the total land area within the city is dedicated to public open
space, including the River Torrens Linear Park, local and
neighbourhood parks, public ovals and sporting grounds. Access to
quality open space is recognised as an extremely important issue to
the community and facilitating this remains a Council priority.
Future challenges facing the Council include demand for new and
affordable residential housing and higher and better use of land, while
protecting areas of high character value. There will also be pressure
to provide quality public open spaces as the size of private backyards
diminishes. Council is also likely to face significant and increasing
requirements for effective infrastructure such as good road networks,
safe walking paths and bikeways, increased accessibility to public
transport and effective stormwater management.
This Plan delivers upon the following Community Plan aspirations,
Aspiration - A community that embraces diversity.
Strategy;
• Facilitate opportunities for people from diverse social backgrounds
to come together.
• Foster a sense of identity and pride within the West Torrens
community.
• Encourage and facilitate art in public spaces including community
buildings, streetscapes and open spaces.
Aspiration - Enhanced natural environment
Strategy;
• Create green streetscapes and open spaces.
• Design streetscapes to maximise opportunities for greening.
• Incorporate native and local indigenous drought resistant plant
species into streetscapes and open spaces.
• Develop water-smart open spaces.
Aspiration - An attractive and functional open space network
Strategy;
• Facilitate equitable access to open spaces.
• Develop a network of open spaces across Council, based on a
balance of environmental, social and economic factors.
• Establish a hierarchy of maintenance for Council’s open spaces in
accordance with identified priorities.
Aspiration - Healthy and learning communities
Strategy;
• Encourage all members of the community to pursue active and
creative lifestyles.
• Support sporting leaders to engage with the local community and
encourage greater participation.
• Enhance recreational facilities to provide a range of activities for all
ages and capabilities.
To ensure delivery of this vision and aspirations, the City of West
Torrens has adopted a Corporate Planning Framework to aid
strategic management and the translation of the vision into
operational outcomes. This Plan's association within the Corporate
Planning Framework is outlined in Figure 1.
Within the Corporate Planning Framework;
• The Community Plan is Council's overarching strategic
management plan.
• This Plan outlines strategies and actions that are
incorporated into Council Departments' Service Plans.
• Service Plans, adopted each financial year, outline what
projects will be budgeted for and delivered. Service Plans
are thus key instruments in the focusing of resources
towards the delivery of the Community Plan.
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Community Plan
Figure 1: Connection with Corporate Planning Framework
Long Term Vision and Aspirations
Open Space and Public
Place Plan
Strategies and Actions
Annual Service Plans
Council Budgeted Projects and Actions
The Corporate Planning Framework ensures connectivity from the
Community Plan's long term vision into the Annual Budget and
Departmental Service Plans.
The research and investigations that informed the Issues and
Opportunities Paper (see Appendix) provides the basis for the
objectives, strategies and actions contained within this Plan.
1.5 Implementation
Focus of Council
Resources
To implement this Plan the following will be applied.
Delivery of
Community Vision
Corporate Planning Framework
This Plan will be incorporated into the City of West Torrens
Corporate Planning Framework to ensure all strategic documents
(which direct the use of resources) have regard for the strategic
direction.
Annual Service Plans
The priorities, strategies, and actions contained within this Plan will
be incorporated into the City of West Torrens' annual service plan
and budget. This will ensure the use of Council resources is
focussed on delivering strategic priorities outlined in Council's
strategic documents.
Review of Plan
The City of West Torrens will review this Plan ideally after the next
review of the Community Plan, anticipated in 2016/17.
Advocacy and Collaboration
This Plan will aid in determining those matters Council needs to
advocate to the State and Commonwealth Governments, private
sector and developers to enlist their collaboration to ensure
priorities are actioned.
Regional Implementation Strategy
The State Government's 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide requires
Regional Implementation Strategies to be developed through
Regional Partnership Forums. This Plan will aid in determining
those matters the Regional Implementation Strategy should
address and will thus ensure priorities are actioned.
Funding Opportunities
This Plan provides a framework and direction to assist in sourcing
external funds to deliver the identified outcomes for the community.
Asset Management and Provision
To ensure community needs are met, this Plan provides a
framework for the management and provision of open space and
public place cared for by the City of West Torrens.
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2 State Strategic Context
2.1 Seven Strategic Priorities
In early 2012 the Premier outlined seven immediate priorities for the
state’s future, stating they would deliver the focused action needed
to achieve the visions, goals and targets outlined in South
Australia’s Strategic Plan. The seven priorities are:
• Creating a vibrant city
• Safe communities, healthy neighbourhoods
• An affordable place to live
• Every chance for every child
• Growing advanced manufacturing
• Realising the benefits of the mining boom for all
• Premium food and wine from our clean environment.
This Plan will guide the improvement of residential neighbourhoods
so that it’s easy for people to lead healthy lives and feel safe in their
communities, contributing to “safe communities, healthy
neighbourhoods”.
2.2 State Strategic Plan
South Australia’s Strategic Plan sets the broad objectives and
targets for the State for which all other plans should have regard.
This Plan has regard for the following State Strategic Plan's specific
goals and targets:
Goal: We are committed to our towns and cities being well
designed, generating great experiences and a sense of
belonging.
Target 1: Urban spaces - Increase the use of public spaces
by the community
Goal: New developments are people friendly, with open spaces
and parks connected by public transport and bikeways.
Target 2: Cycling - Double the number of people cycling in
South Australia by 2020
Goal: We are physically active.
Target 83: Sport and recreation - Increase the proportion of
South Australians participating in sport or physical recreation
at least once per week to 50% by 2020.
2.3 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide
The 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide: A volume of the South
Australian Planning Strategy provides the spatial land use
framework to support the achievement of the following targets
across the Greater Adelaide region over its 30 year time frame:
• Population growth of 560,000 people
• The construction of 280,000 additional homes
• Economic growth of $127.7 billion
• The creation of 282,000 additional jobs.
This Plan has regard for the 30 Year Plan's direction by:
• Providing “a net contribution of active and passive open
space” in corridors and other infill areas.
• Promoting the development of walkways and greenways
along transit corridors and a well-designed network of linked
open spaces.
• Emphasising the importance of good urban design in
promoting safe, healthy and attractive neighbourhoods and
community participation.
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3 Issues Impacting Upon Open Space and Public Place
State, Local Government and Council's own strategic plans identify
a range of issues that impact upon open space and public place
which this Plan responds to. These include;
• Growth and public places
• Open space corridors and linkages
• Biodiversity
• Stormwater management and water sensitive urban design
• Health and wellbeing
• Climate change adaptation.
3.1 Growth and Public Places
Population growth and urban development will have a significant
bearing on how open space and public place is planned for and
used in the City of West Torrens.
The City of West Torrens Community Plan supports sustainable
population growth and providing a range of housing types and
densities. Council’s 2008 Strategic Directions Report, which
predates the State Government's 30 Year Plan for Greater
Adelaide, identifies the areas in West Torrens that are well suited
for an increased residential population in the form of high density,
medium density and mixed use precincts.
In order to meet the population targets in South Australia’s Strategic
Plan, the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide outlines how population
growth will be accommodated across Greater Adelaide. This will
involve denser infill development within West Torrens to maximise
the use of existing infrastructure and services, such as bus and
tram services. The 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide also seeks to
‘provide a net contribution of active and passive open space’ in
corridors and other infill areas, recognising the importance of open
space in a dense urban environment.
The City of West Torrens is in the process of amending its planning
controls to provide the necessary statutory framework to support
the urban infill development envisaged by the Council and State
Government.
Projected population growth and infill urban development will
increase demands on existing open space and public place. New
forms of housing have smaller areas of private open space, while
mixing land uses might activate streets in certain locations, and
encourage more pedestrian activity and street life. This changing
pattern of urban development and increased densities means that
public places such as squares, malls, streets and laneways, where
people move through and gather, will be of as much importance as
open space.
Council’s Community Plan and 2008 Strategic Directions Report
draw attention to the importance of streetscapes and open space as
we plan for population growth and urban development. In a similar
vein, the 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide talks about excellence
in design and liveable public places. This includes tree lined streets,
spaces that are safe, inviting, facilitate social interaction and
support community activities and cultural expression.
3.2 Open Space Corridors and Linkages
There is renewed focus on the development of open space
corridors and linkages between individual sites. Council’s 2008
Strategic Directions Report also draws attention to open space
linkages, and its Community Plan commits to 'develop a network of
open spaces across Council, based on a balance of environmental,
social and economic factors' as a five-year strategy. South
Australia’s Strategic Plan contains the goal that “new developments
are people friendly, with open spaces and parks connected by
public transport and bikeways”.
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Similarly, the 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide seeks the
development of walkways and greenways. Greenways, are
connected areas of open space along transit corridors,
watercourses and linear parks which link open space areas, public
facilities, provide local biodiversity corridors and support walking
and cycling. The 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide also identifies
a goal of creating open corridors along the flood lines which
traverse the Council area to reinforce other corridors, such as the
Torrens Linear Park and the Westside Bikeway.
These directions are supported by the State Government's Draft
Inner Metro Rim Structure Plan which identifies Keswick and
Brownhill Creeks as ‘greenway’ corridors that might provide
pedestrian/cyclist connections with the surrounding neighbourhood.
3.3 Biodiversity
An important function of open space is biodiversity conservation
and enhancement. Urban areas can support a diversity of plant
and animal species, and provide essential links between otherwise
isolated ecological communities.
Council’s Community Plan contains strategies to improve the
condition of local biodiversity, participate in local environmental
projects and incorporate native and local indigenous plants into
streetscapes and open spaces. This is supported by the 30-Year
Plan for Greater Adelaide which notes that the region is biologically
diverse, and re-establishing biodiversity throughout urban areas is a
priority. The 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide considers open
spaces, greenways and streetscapes as pivotal to the enhancement
of urban biodiversity and connection of different ecological
communities. The 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide also seeks to
develop urban forests, restore watercourses and use of local
indigenous species.
The Draft Inner Metro Rim Structure Plan identifies Keswick and
Brownhill Creeks as ‘greenways’ where there is opportunity to
restore biodiversity. The Draft Adelaide and Mount Lofty Region
Natural Resources Management Plan also acknowledges the
importance of the River Torrens, and emphasises that "the urban
landscape is highly modified, which makes all natural resource
areas highly valuable. Within Metropolitan Adelaide valuable natural
areas include watercourses, beaches and parks."
3.4 Stormwater Management and Water Sensitive Urban
Design
In largely developed places like West Torrens, greater attention is
needed to foster positive stormwater management outcomes.
Council’s Community Plan contains strategies aimed at increasing
the amount of stormwater captured and reused including; identifying
potential sites for local catchment storage, developing alternate
water resources, and improving the quality of stormwater. Open
space can play an important role in stormwater management.
Increasingly, water sensitive urban design (WSUD) techniques are
being applied to the design and management of streets and open
space. WSUD is an approach to water management that restores,
where possible, the natural water cycle in built up areas. This
means using streets and open space to reduce the flow of, treat
and capture stormwater, minimising and improving the quality of
water run-off into stormwater infrastructure networks.
The State Government is committed to the widespread application
of WSUD. The State’s Water for Good strategy outlines WSUD as
a key way to securing the State’s long term water future, while the
30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide contains a number of policies
and targets regarding the incorporation of WSUD across Adelaide
and in planning processes, including a target to achieve
independence from mains water supplies for public open spaces in
transit corridors.
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3.5 Health and Wellbeing
Open space plays an important role in facilitating opportunities for
recreation, social interaction and cultural activities, which together
underpin active lifestyles and improved physical and mental health
and wellbeing.
The Council's Community Plan emphasises the need for embracing
diversity, encouraging healthy and learning communities, as well as
interaction and engagement. Open space and public places aid in
delivering these by serving as venues for numerous formal cultural
events and community celebrations, as well as informal activities.
The City of West Torrens participates in the OPAL (Obesity
Prevention and Lifestyle) program which works with communities to
increase opportunities to eat well and be active locally.
South Australia’s Strategic Plan has a target to “increase the
proportion of South Australians participating in sport or physical
recreation at least once per week to 50% by 2020”. It also includes
a goal that “New developments are people friendly, with open
spaces and parks connected by public transport and bikeways”,
linked to the target to “double the number of people cycling in South
Australia by 2020”.
To help achieve these targets, the State Government's Eat Well Be
Active Strategy outlines goals and actions for supporting healthy
lifestyles. The Strategy notes that open space and trails networks,
underpin physical activity, social inclusion and healthy lifestyles.
The 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide contains polices and targets
aimed at ensuring pedestrian and cyclist links are established to
support active and inclusive lifestyles, along with ensuring that
residential density, land use mix and urban design create the
conditions that are conducive for physical and mental wellbeing.
3.6 Climate Change Adaptation
The potential impacts of Climate change upon the City of West
Torrens include;
• Sea level rises and potential loss of coastal reserves and
inundation of low lying areas,
• Reduced rainfall resulting in reduced amenity, maintenance
and loss of flora and fauna,
• Longer and hotter summers with increased heat island effect
with higher density urban form,
• Increased peak rainfall events resulting in stormwater
inundation from greater urban runoff.
The Council's Community Plan endeavours to actively respond to
the challenges of climate change, and a range of strategies and
actions are being implemented through Council's Water
Management Action Plan and Climate Change Action Plan.
Open space and public place will helps serve to mitigate and
manage climate change affects, by providing sites that allow for the
management of resources including flora, fauna, stormwater and
even wind or solar power generation.
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4 Existing Supply and Condition of Open Space
4.1 Setting the Scene
The character of a local government area can have a substantial
influence on the value and use of open space and public place.
Therefore, it is important to consider the character and quality of
existing open space to provide a context for future planning and
enhancement. The main features and the potential implications for
open space and the public place in West Torrens are:
• Total Council area of 36 square kilometres, roughly bounded
by the City of Adelaide Parklands to the east, the River
Torrens to the north, Anzac Highway and the Adelaide -
Glenelg tramline to the south, and the Gulf of St Vincent to
the west
• Predominantly suburban in character having experienced
urban development for the majority of European occupation
of South Australia, resulting in limited remaining areas of
indigenous habitat
• Industry is a significant land use, particularly in the eastern
and central portion of the Council area
• Adelaide Airport is a dominant feature of the region – the
large area of land and associated infrastructure is managed
independently, creating a planning hole within the Council
which affects open space provision and connections
• Many suburbs' (especially in the central and eastern
portions of the City) useable public open space is located
greater than 400m from many houses
• The City contains the River Torrens Linear Park and
Westside Bikeway which provide east to west connectivity
• Low quality public places given existing streetscapes
(Henley Beach Road, Sir Donald Bradman Drive and Anzac
Highway) predominance for vehicle movement, however
potential good access via a traditional grid street network
• The urban fabric of the City is extremely segmented with
private land, administrative boundaries or transport corridors
separating the residential population from access to open
space, and inhibiting connections between open space
• Large areas of commercial land offering potential for urban
regeneration and increased residential density
• Good distribution of district sports and recreation reserves
and facilities
• Good distribution of open space and playgrounds to the
Council's western suburbs, particularly Fulham and Novar
Gardens.
4.2 Provision of Open Space in West Torrens
Table 1 indicates that the City of West Torrens currently has 150.27
hectares of open space that is either owned or under the care and
control of Council. With a residential population of 56,960 1 people,
this equates to 2.63 hectares per 1,000 people. Other forms of open
space, such as golf courses and school ovals are excluded from
this equation as they are generally not freely available to the public
and, generally, are beyond the scope of Council’s influence.
1 Australian Bureau of Statistics (2011) Regional Population Growth, Australia
(3218.0)
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Table 1: Open Space Type and Area
Open Space Type Hectares (Ha) Ha/1,000 People
Linear Parks 67.34 1.18
All other Parks, Reserves and Gardens 42.30 0.74
Sportsgrounds 40.63 0.71
Total 150.27 2.63
Source: WAX Design and URPS (2012)
A large proportion of the open space includes the River Torrens
Linear Park and the Westside Bikeway which serve as regional
connections, followed by sportsgrounds. Consequently, in terms of
an open space hierarchy, the City of West Torrens is reasonably
well serviced at the regional and district level, but lacks open space
at a neighbourhood and local level.
Table 2 indicates that, the City of West Torrens does not have a
high provision of open space when compared with a number of
other local government areas.
Table 2: Open Space Provision Comparison with other Council Areas
Local Government
Open Space
(hectares)
Population
(2011)
Hectares Per
1,000 People
City of Mitcham 468.00 61,853 7.57
City of Norwood
Payneham & St Peters
180.00 33,729 5.34
City of Burnside 199.43 41,175 4.84
City of Campbelltown 160.00 46,160 3.47
City of Charles Sturt 343.24 106,995 3.23
City of West Torrens 150.27 56,960 2.63
City of Holdfast Bay 68.00 33,229 2.04
City of Unley 44 .00 35,998 1.22
Source: WAX Design and URPS (2012)
Contemporary planning thinking suggests, ideally, that residents
should not need to walk more than 300 to 400 metres to access a
local level park, and 250 to 300 metres to access a playground.
Map 1 displays the spatial distribution of open space and
playgrounds either owned by or under the care and control of the
City of West Torrens. Map 1 also indicates significant gaps in the
distribution where residents currently need to;
• walk more than 400 metres to access open space, and
• walk more than 250 metres to access a playground.
This lack of access to open space and play opportunities is
compounded by the quality of many spaces. This also reinforces
the significance the Torrens Linear Park and Westside Bikeway
serve, further demonstrating the need for strategic planning that
enhances their regional status.
Map 2 displays the spatial distribution of non-council open space
(including schools, commercial businesses, et cetera), currently or
potentially available to meet community needs. Map 2 also displays
connections and flood prone areas which present opportunities to
improve the provision and connectedness of open space.
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5 Demand for Open Space
5.1 Current Planning Standard
Section 50 of the Development Act 1993 states;
Where an application ...provides for the division of land into more than
20 allotments, and one or more allotments is less than one hectare in
area [the relevant planning authority] may require—
(c) that up to 12.5 per cent in area of the relevant area be vested in the
council or the Crown (as the case requires) to be held as open space...
Historically, the 12.5% provision of open space has worked
effectively in providing open space to the low-density pattern of
settlement in South Australia.
Also, the State Government's South Australian Planning Policy
Library includes an open space and recreation module which
recommends an open space hierarchy based on:
• District level parks of at least 3 hectares in size located
within 2 kilometres of all households.
• Neighbourhood level parks of at least 0.5 hectares in size
located within 500 metres of all households.
• Local level parks of at least 0.2 hectares in size and located
within 300 metres of all households.
5.2 Alternative Planning Standard
Another common standard applied to the provision of public open
space is 2.83 hectares per 1,000 people. This figure, which is often
rounded up to 3 hectares per 1,000 people, is derived from the
early 1900’s British standard of 7 acres per 1,000 people (2.83
hectares per 1,000 people), based on the concept that this provides
adequate space for play and gymnastics for children.
Figure 2 contrasts the impacts of open space provision by the
current 12.5% development site standard and the alternative 3
hectares per 1,000 people. Figure 2 demonstrates that the current
12.5% standard means you get more open space in less dense and
less populated urban areas. Conversely the 3 hectares per 1,000
people standard provides a framework to enable more open space
to be provided where there are larger populations and more
potential users.
5.3 Population Projections
The rate of infill development within the City of West Torrens is
estimated to be between 4,000 and 8,000 new dwellings in the
medium to long term, accommodating population growth in the
order of 9,000 to 15,000 people.
The actual rate of development and population growth will depend
upon a range of factors, such as the State’s fertility and migration
rates, investment in infrastructure (such as public transport), the
amount of land released for housing on the urban fringe, market
demand for medium and high density housing and disparate
landowners making larger redevelopment opportunities more
difficult.
Page 18 of 46

Figure 2: Public Open Space Provision 12.5% Development Site Contrasted with 3 Hectares/1000 People
Page 19 of 46

5.4 Applying the Planning Standards
Table 3 illustrates population growth scenarios for West Torrens
along with estimated open space provision utilising the
Development Act 1993 standard of 12.5% of development sites as
well as the standard of 3 hectares per 1,000 people.
It is estimated that a ‘worst case’ scenario, based on population
growth of 18,728 and no additional open space, could result in a
potential deficit of approximately 73 hectares of open space.
Projected population growth with no additional provision of open
space is conceivable and would result in a significant open space
deficit. This scenario would have significant implications for the
provision and management of open space in West Torrens as well
as impacting directly on the community's quality of life.
Table 3: Population Growth Scenarios for the City of West Torrens
Population Scenario
Projected
Growth
Total
Population
Required
Dwelling
(approx)
Potential
Land
Required
12.5% Open
Space
(hectares)
Total Space
Provision**
3 Hectares
per 1000
Open Space
Provision
(hectares)
Open Space
Deficit
(hectares)***
Ratio of
Open Space
to People
(hectares)****
1. Existing situation - 56,960 - - -
2. Modelling of Development
Potential Across Council
3. Long Term Realistic
Maximum Growth Corridor
Capacity
4. Worst case scenario based
on no delivery of open space
and maximum population
growth
150.27 ha
(existing)
166.86 ha (16.61) 2.60 ha/1000
14,967 70,587 7,484 136 ha 17 167.27 ha 211.76 ha (44.50) 2.37 ha/1000
18,728 74,348 9,363 170 ha 21.25 171.52 ha 223.04 ha (51.52) 2.31 ha/1000
18,728 74,348 9,363 170 ha Nil 150.27 ha 223.04 ha (72.77) 2.00 ha/1000
Source:
1. Existing situation: Australian Bureau of Statistics (2011) Regional Population Growth,
Australia (3218.0)
2. Profile ID Consulting (2010)
3. Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure (2010)
4. Urban and Regional Planning Solutions (2012)
Notes
* Based on a gross yield of 55 dwellings per hectare
** Based on 12.5 % development site Standard
*** Deference between 12.5% Standard and recommend 3 hectares per 1000 people
Standard
**** Based on Total Population divided by Total Open Space provision under 12.5%
Standard.
Page 20 of 46

5.5 Recommended Planning Standard
Public open space provides opportunities for:
• Recreation – a variety of structured and unstructured
activities.
• Conservation – protection, integration and restoration of
natural features and cultural sites.
• Amenity – greening of the urban environment and a spatial
setting for housing.
• Utility – stormwater management, buffers between different
land uses, repair of degraded land, biodiversity and climate
change adaptation.
The design and function of open space should aim to meet user
requirements for outdoor recreational and social activities, and for
landscaping that contributes to the identity and environmental
health of the community.
Figure 2 indicates that to meet user requirements as urban
densities increase, it is more appropriate to link open space
provision to the number of people within an area, rather than a
percentage of the overall land. This is particularly the case as the
current 12.5% standard within higher density development areas
will continue to deliver an under provision of open space, especially
as it cannot be applied if the development provides for the division
of land into less than 20 allotments.
While a standard of 3 hectares per 1,000 people better addresses
users needs in higher density developments, it is important that
these standards are not applied too strictly, without due regard to
the needs of a particular community, as the quality or ‘usability’ of
open space is just as critical a factor in planning for open space.
The principles that guide open space planning should include the
provision of areas of high-quality open space, that offer a variety of
experiences through diverse settings, equity of access, efficient
resource management and preservation for future generations.
In order to provide 3 hectares of open space per 1,000 people, an
additional 16.61 hectares of open space may be required to serve
the current population. Clearly, to purchase and develop this
additional open space would be expensive and beyond the financial
ability of the Council alone.
Critically, as the Council progresses towards a more dense urban
form it will more difficult to provide 3 hectares of open space per
1,000 people unless significant new areas or ways of delivering
open space are provided. Importantly, this shortfall will continue to
grow even if new residential development is able to dedicate 12.5%
to open space.
Clearly, the provision of open space is easier in a ‘greenfield’
scenario where open space can be provided in a holistic manner to
achieve equitable distribution and access for all new households.
However, in the case of West Torrens, the challenge of retrofitting is
much greater - but not impossible - through infill redevelopment.
It is recommended that;
• A standard of 3 hectares per 1,000 people for open space
provision be used to address the recreation, play and
sporting requirements of West Torrens,
• The strategies and actions within this Plan are pursued to
ensure the equitable provision and distribution of open
space,
• Consideration is given to other urban spaces, streets,
natural areas and connections that provide places for
people, and
• A hierarchy and framework are adopted to maintain the
quality or ‘usability’ of open space and public place.
Page 21 of 46

6 Strategy
The objectives, strategies and actions contained within this Plan
help to deliver the West Torrens Community Plan's vision for open
space. The five key objectives are;
These objectives are supported by strategies outlined within this
section which are designed to addresses open space and public
place issues. These strategies are further supported by an Action
Plan which details more specific actions needing to be undertaken.
The Action Plan is not absolute, as further actions will emerge
during the implementation of this Plan. However, in addressing
open space and public place, the objectives and general direction of
the strategies should remain steady.
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Rationale
The open space network within the City of West Torrens does not
meet many of the standards in terms of supply or distribution. This
situation is likely to be exacerbated by the anticipated population
growth over the next 30 years. Therefore, it is important for Council
to establish a recognised hierarchy of provision across the Council
area that addresses existing and future needs. In addition Council
will need to work with developers and the State Government to
ensure that future areas of open space are provided while also
improving the facilities available on existing areas of open space.
The strategies proposed under this objective seek to address the
issues identified in section 3.1. In particular, they seek to ensure
that open space is provided in appropriate locations to serve an
increased residential population in the form of high density, medium
density and mixed use precincts.
Open Space Provision
Strategy 1.1 – In accordance with Map 3, address Council wide
and localised open space deficiencies through shared use
agreements for non Council open space, and providing and
negotiating improved open space and public place provision.
Open Space Target
Strategy 1.2 - Adopt an open space target of 3 hectares per 1,000
people and ensure that new areas of open space are identified
within development areas and growth corridors to achieve this
target.
Future Planning
Strategy 1.3 – Prepare detailed concept designs for open space
identified through Council and State Government structure planning
processes, and incorporate into relevant management plans.
New Open Space
Strategy 1.4 – Increase the provision of open space in order to
deliver reserves within walking 400 metres of dwelling. Seek to
provide additional, innovative areas of open space in strategic
locations within local road reserves to create informal gathering
spaces and promote unstructured recreational activities.
Shared Open Space
Strategy 1.5 – Explore the potential to deliver increased open
space provision across the Council area by partnering with other
Councils, schools and other private open space areas.
Rationalisation of Open Space
Strategy 1.6 – Explore the potential to rationalise open space that
does not contribute to the open space hierarchy and facilitates
opportunities to improve the delivery of the hierarchy.
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Page 24 of 46

Open Space Hierarchy
Strategy 1.7 – In accordance with Map 4 adopt an Open Space
Hierarchy which responds to the varying purpose, function and
characteristics of open space.
Regional Destination
Strategy 1.8 – Establish regional parks and play spaces that
reinforce and enhance the open space hierarchy and ensure an
equitable distribution of facilities that support community needs as
well as providing open space destinations that attract visitors.
District Open Space
Strategy 1.9 – Ensure that District level open space caters for
sport, recreation, play and other community needs.
Neighbourhood Reserves
Strategy 1.10 – Improving the provision and quality of open space
at a neighbourhood level to compensate for the lack of open space
within certain areas, and the segmentation across the Council due
to main roads and other barriers.
Local Open Space
Strategy 1.11 – Improve the quality of local open space particularly
in areas of low open space provision by providing shade, seating,
landscape amenity and paths.
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Page 26 of 46

Open Space Quality
Strategy 2.1 - Ensure that planning, design, maintenance and
implementation reinforce the open space hierarchy in Map 4 and
there is an equitable spread of regional, district, neighbourhood and
local open space.
Building for the Future
Strategy 2.2 – Identify, monitor and provide for the cultural, sport,
recreation and health needs of a growing community and urban
population in accordance with Map 4.
Supporting Open Space in Growth Corridors
Strategy 2.3 – Increase the provision of open space associated
with growth corridors in order to address the potential demand for
cultural, recreation and sports facilities
Objective 2: Recreation Quality and Function
Rationale
Open space has an important role to play in meeting the recreation,
sporting and health needs of the community. This can be achieved
through the provision of high quality recreational, cultural and
sporting facilities. Enhancements to existing areas of open space
and through improvements to facilities and amenity will be required
to a number of reserves within the Council.
The strategies proposed under this objective seek to address the
issues identified in section 3.1 and 3.5. In particular, they seek to
ensure that open space is designed and developed to provide a
range of facilities to meet the recreation, sporting, cultural and
health needs of the community.
Sports Facilities
Strategy 2.4 – Ensure that existing and future demands for sports
facilities are addressed through the continued management and
development of sportsgrounds within the Council area.
Play Destinations
Strategy 2.5 – In Regional and District open spaces maintain and
enhance their attraction as play destinations through the provision
of equipment, nature based play elements, public art and
landscaped area to create a range of play opportunities.
Enhanced Child Development
Strategy 2.6 – Promote and enhance child development by
progressively providing all Neighbourhood and Local open spaces
with nature play spaces that afford a range of sensory experiences.
Page 27 of 46

Universally Accessible Open Space
Strategy 2.7 – Comply with the spirit and principles of the Disability
Discrimination Act 1992, to apply access and mobility standards
that ensure equality of access.
Enhanced Natural Landscapes
Strategy 2.8 – Preserve and enhance the quality and biodiversity of
natural landscapes and waterways, in balance with retaining
recreational and cultural activities which add to the social fabric of
West Torrens, and limiting activities which denigrate and pollute.
Integrated Design
Strategy 2.9 – Adopt a strategic and integrated planning and
design process to improve the function and amenity (facilities and
visual appearance) of open space.
Urban Food Production
Strategy 2.13 – Promote community interaction, healthy eating,
alternative forms of recreation, food security, and urban food
production within reserves and streetscapes.
Valuing Kaurna Heritage
Strategy 2.14 – Acknowledge and celebrate the Kaurna heritage in
the landscape.
Dog Parks
Strategy 2.15 – Establish a dog park that meets the developing
need for off-leash dog destinations.
Infrastructure
Strategy 2.10 – Encourage the integration of infrastructure and
facilities to limit physical and visual impact and maximise open
space value and function.
Stormwater Management
Strategy 2.11 - Given Council's flood risk (as shown on Map 2)
acknowledge that open space has a role to play in stormwater
management and utilise the flood prone areas as tools to negotiate
open space provision outcomes with developers which address
open space deficiencies.
Water efficiency
Strategy 2.12 - Develop water-smart open spaces, and ensure use
of Water Sensitive Urban Design principles.
Page 28 of 46

9.3 O
Connected Open Space
Strategy 3.1 – Increase open space and public place connectivity
in accordance with Map 3 through the use of bicycle lanes,
appropriately located pedestrian crossings and clear directional
signage, which establish walking and cycling links between existing
and proposed areas of open space.
River Torrens Linear Park
Strategy 3.2 – Enhance and maintain the River Torrens as a
significant regional and State wider linear connection.
Westside Bikeway
Strategy 3.3 – Increase and develop the significance of the
Westside Bikeway as a regional linear connection between
Adelaide CBD and the coast.
Rationale
The open space network in the City of West Torrens benefits from
two major linear reserves – the River Torrens Linear Park and the
Westside Bikeway. These corridors provide considerable
opportunity to link open space and build upon existing assets to
create a truly connected network across the City and adjoining
councils.
The strategies proposed under this objective seek to address the
issues identified in section 3.2. In particular, they seek to ensure
that a network of connected open space is provided with a focus on
linear parks that link to important destinations and facilities.
Connections to the Coast
Strategy 3.4 – Establish stronger connections to the coast
capitalising on the open space provision of Coast Park and
Adelaide Shores
Waterways
Strategy 3.5 – Encourage the planning and development of
waterways, creeks and drainage channels as green infrastructure
assets that deliver recreational and environmental benefit.
Connecting Growth Corridors
Strategy 3.6 – Through the structure planning process, ensure that
designated connections are provided between growth corridors and
nearby open space.
Page 29 of 46

Greenways
Strategy 3.7 – Continue to support alternative modes of transport
such as cycling through the development of Greenways as
described in the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide.
Accessibility
Strategy 3.8 – Improve walking and cycling connections within
existing areas of open space such as Plympton Green through the
establishment of ‘all accessible’ pathways that form part of a
consistent and legible network.
Page 30 of 46

9.4
Growth Corridors and Road Corridors
Strategy 4.1 – Incorporate public place making into structure
planning for growth corridors and increase the public place
significance of certain road corridors within the Council.
Creating a Civic Heart
Strategy 4.2 – Reinforce the open space and public place
associated with the civic centre and seek to increase the open
space provision in order to provide a strong community centre.
Gateways to the City
Strategy 4.3 – Reinforce Sir Donald Bradman Drive as the
entrance to South Australia from the Airport through the
development of ‘gateway’ statements.
Objective 4 Public Realm
Rationale
While public place within the City of West Torrens is limited, there
are opportunities for improvement, largely to the streets and road
corridors. The public space within the urban fabric of the City
requires careful planning and design in order to maximise the
potential for place making, which in turn leads to vibrancy and
diversity.
The strategies proposed under this objective seek to address the
issues identified in section 3.1. In particular, they seek to ensure
that public places are designed and developed to encourage more
pedestrian activity and active street life, local prosperity and
expression of cultural identity and heritage, as well as engendering
a sense of community pride.
Productive Landscapes
Strategy 4.4 – Investigate and promote opportunities for public
place to contribute towards food security via productive street tree
plantings and community gardens.
Movement and Place
Strategy 4.5 – Integrate public place outcomes for the City of West
Torrens with strategic movement outcomes.
Local Character and Identity
Strategy 4.6 – Promote and enhance the unique and special
qualities that reinforce the character and identity of local places.
Urban Design
Strategy 4.7 – Promote well-designed, multi-functional urban
environments which encourage active street life and use of public
place.
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Public art and cultural expression
Strategy 4.8 – Encourage and facilitate art and cultural expression
in public places including opportunities for public art, festivals and
cultural events.
Culture and Heritage
Strategy 4.9 – Promote cultural diversity and the recognition of
cultural heritage, and create greater public awareness of heritage
sites, events and people of local significance.
Street Furniture
Strategy 4.10 – Develop a street furniture guide to consider factors
such as function, purpose, location, visual impact and asset
renewal to achieve a consistent approach to the provision of street
furniture across the Council area.
Prosperity
Strategy 4.11 – Support thriving local business through the
development of attractive, well-frequented public spaces.
Page 32 of 46

9.5
Community Engagement
Strategy 5.1 – Encourage active community participation in open
space, including in planning, development, design and ongoing use.
Collaborative Approach
Strategy 5.3 – Create formal linkages between the planning,
implementation and asset delivery sections of Council and with
external partners to ensure that a coordinated approach is adopted
in relation to the identification, design, consultation and installation
of open space facilities.
Rationale
In order to improve the design, function and management of open
space, it is important that the planning and implementation roles of
Council be closely aligned. It is also important that open space be
maintained according to its purpose, and that the community is
engaged, and made aware of the existing facilities within the
Council area.
The strategies proposed under this objective seek to establish a
governance framework which will ensure that Council’s decision
making and management processes are consistent with and deliver
the Plan's priorities.
Land Management Plans
Strategy 5.4 – Develop an Asset Management Plan – Open Space
which will consolidate Council’s requirements under Section 122
and 196 of the Local Government Act (1999) and aid in the effective
management and maintenance of Council’s open space assets in
line with strategic directions.
Management Guidelines
Strategy 5.6 – Develop management guidelines built upon
maintenance and development principles that ensure open space
and public places are responsive to the community; and establish
maintenance standards based on the open space hierarchy.
Irrigation Management
Strategy 5.8 – Irrigate in accordance with the open space hierarchy
and the South Australian Water Code of Practice for Irrigated Public
Open Space.
Promoting Open Space
Strategy 5.9 – Encourage community engagement with the City of
West Torrens open space through promotion and marketing
Page 33 of 46

Open Space Design
Strategy 5.10 – For open space design including Council's
playground upgrade and renewal programme separate the strategic
planning responsibilities for identification, consultation and design
from the operation responsibilities of construction and installation.
Page 34 of 46

7 Draft Action Plan
The draft Action Plan outlines operational activities designed to
deliver the strategy. All Actions are subject to operational,
budgetary and community consultation requirements.
.
Action
Objective 1: The open space we need
Action 1.1.1
Indentify opportunities for new areas of open space within the following growth corridors as part of the structure planning process:
• Anzac Highway
• Sir Donald Bradman Drive
• Henley Beach Road
• Port Road
Action 1.5.1
Future planning should address:
• the provision and purpose of the open space
• the intended user groups
• community and stakeholder engagement processes
• function of open space
• types of facilities within open space such as playgrounds, shelters and pathways
• landscape treatment including significant plantings
• stormwater management (WSUD)
• opportunities to support biodiversity
Action 1.5.2
Work with the Urban Renewal Authority, developers and land owners to ensure that identified areas of additional open space within growth
corridors are developed in accordance with detailed concept designs.
Action 1.5.3
Prepare and incorporate concept designs for open space into Council's Community Land Management Plans and Asset Management Plans.
Page 35 of 46

Action 1.5.4
Undertake a cost benefit analysis to determine whether or not additional land for open space should be acquired in the following locations to
address the existing shortfall:
• North and south of Richmond Road between Marion Road and Brooker Terrace
• Western edge of Brooklyn Park along May Terrace
• North of Henley Beach Road between Holbrooks Road and South Road
• North and South of Henley Beach Road between South Road and James Congdon Drive
• North of Sir Donald Bradman Drive between South Road and Halifax Street
Action 1.5.5
Explore the potential for local road closures and street widening programmes that provide additional open space within areas lacking open
space as indicated in Action 1.5.4.
Action 1.6.1
Establish formal agreements with the following schools to provide access for structured and unstructured recreation opportunities for the
wider community:
• Underdale High School
• Torrensville Primary School
• Cowandilla Junior School
• Lockelys North School
• Plympton Primary School
Action 1.6.2
Explore the potential of utilising and increasing access to areas of private and semi-private open space in relation to the following:
• Santos Stadium
• ETSA Park Netball Stadium
• Adelaide Shore
• Adelaide Airport
• Local golf courses
Action 1.6.3
Establish a Memorandum of Understanding with adjoining Councils in relation to the future development of parks located near Council
boundaries:
• City of Charles Sturt (Breakout Reserve, Toledo Reserve, Mountbatten Reserve, Flinders Park, George Jones Reserve)
• City of Holdfast Bay (Anderson Reserve, Fordham Reserve)
• City of Adelaide (Adelaide Park Lands – Bonython Park)
Page 36 of 46

Action 1.8.1
Undertake feasibility and masterplaning for a regional playspace facility as part of the ongoing development of Lockleys Oval and Kings Park
Action 1.9.1
Plan, manage and develop the following reserves as district open space:
• Kings Park and Thebaton Oval
• Lockleys Oval
• Weigall Oval
• Richmond Oval
• Western Youth Reserve
• Camden Oval
Action 1.10.1
Increase the function and amenity of existing open space to provide high quality neighbourhood destinations. Focus on the following
upgrades:
• Mellor Reserve
• Ashburn Reserve
• Golflands Reserve
• Lindfield Reserve
• Pacific Reserve
• Peake Gardens
• Dove Street Reserve
• Mile End Common
• Keswick Reserve
• Joe Wells Reserve
• Cromer Reserve
• Rex Jones Reserve
• Jubilee Reserve
• George Avenue
Page 37 of 46

Action 1.10.2
Maintain the following reserves as quality neighbourhood open space
• Andrews Reserve
• Britton Street Reserve
• Carolyn Reserve
• Weetunga
• College Grove Park
• Frank Norton Reserve
• Mulga Street Reserve
Action 1.11.1
For all open spaces not listed as regional, district or neighbourhood; plan, manage and develop them as local open space.
Action 1.12.1
Consider the potential to rationalise irregular or underutilised open space:
• Helenslea Avenue Reserve.
• Lindsay Reserve
Action
Objective 2: Healthy spaces and place
Action 2.2.1
Use Council powers under Section 52 of the Tobacco Products Regulation Act (1997) to ban smoking within all open spaces and significant
public places.
Action 2.3.1
Prepare detailed concept designs for the following reserves which are located close to growth corridors and could accommodate additional
facilities and landscape treatments such as playgrounds, improved pathways, picnic settings, playing fields, fitness equipment, shelters for
shade, public/community art, walking/cycling/running trails and landscape amenity:
• Kings Park/Thebarton Oval
• Richmond Oval
• Cowandilla/Western Youth Reserve
• Weigall Oval
Page 38 of 46

Action 2.4.1
Establish high quality sportsgrounds that build on Council’s approach to district level community hubs. Focus on the following:
• Kings Park/Thebarton Oval
• Lockleys Oval
• Richmond Oval
• Camden Oval
Action 2.4.2
Ensure Council's Community Land Management Plans and Asset Management Plan include projected demand scenario to aid facility
planning.
Action 2.5.1
As part of the continuing upgrade and renewal of playgrounds across the Council area (to ensure compliance with relevant standards),
consider the following design factors:
• Demographic needs – i.e. the provision of age appropriate playgrounds in suitable locations
• The impact of fencing around playgrounds which may restrict the integration of play spaces with the wider open space
• The introduction of shade and shelter (including trees and structures) in association with playgrounds
Action 2.5.2
Introduce natural play spaces (to encourage the exploration of natural settings) as part of the playground upgrade and renewal programme.
Adopt a benefit-risk management model which utilises the Australian Early Development Index in the needs assessment and design. Seek to
exploit the natural context of reserve such as:
• Torrens Linear Park
• Apex Park
Page 39 of 46

Action 2.5.3
Provide additional play opportunities or improve the quality of reserves to ensure that the number of households within 250m to 300m walking
distance of a playspace is increased. Focus on the following suburbs:
• Underdale (southeast)
• Torrensville (south)
• Brooklyn Park (northeast)
• Mile End
• Hilton
• Richmond
• Marleston
• Keswick
• Ashford
• Glandore
• Plympton
Action 2.5.4
Develop regional playspace destinations as part of Kings Park and Lockleys Oval upgrades.
Action 2.6.1
As part of the playground upgrade and maintenance programme replace all play equipment in neighbourhood and local open spaces with
nature based landscapes, including the provision of promotional signage about the benefits of nature based play to child development.
Action 2.7.1
Undertake an accessibility audit of existing open space in accordance with the principles of universal access and the requirements of the
Disability Discrimination Act (1992).
Action 2.7.2 Ensure Council's Community Land Management Plans and Asset Management Plans has regard for its Disability Action Plan.
Action 2.8.1
Maintain and enhance the natural landscape value and biodiversity in the following reserves
• Torrens Linear Park Reserves
• Apex Park
• Lockleys Oval
Action 2.8.2
Increase the landscape treatments and potential biodiversity of the Westside Bikeway
Action 2.8.3
Investigate and implement management techniques to enhance water quality along the River Torrens while retaining equestrian activities
within the City of West Torrens.
Page 40 of 46

Action 2.9.1
Undertake master planning of open space and reserve in accordance with the Open Space Framework.
Action 2.9.2
Increase shade provision within open spaces in relation to facilities and seating areas and balance the use of constructed shade structure and
tree planting
Action 2.9.3
Provide additional shade for the recreation and gym equipment on the Westside Bikeway
Action 2.11.1
Ensure all Community Land Management Plans and Asset Management Plans incorporate planning and design which considers stormwater
management and climate change adaptation including revegetation.
Action 2.11.2
Amend Development Plan policy to improve Council's capacity to negotiate with developers for open space, public place and stormwater
outcomes which are consistent with the Open Space and Public Place Strategy.
Action 2.11.3
Design open space within flood prone areas to accommodate stormwater inundation while maintaining open space function and landscape
amenity. Consider specific stormwater design response in relation to:
• Richmond Oval
• Western Youth Reserve
• Frank Norton Reserve
Action 2.11.4
Consider the flooding impact of Brownhill and Keswick Creeks on the function and design of open space
Action 2.13.1
Recognise and maintain the unique open space function and character of certain reserve within the Council, in particular:
• Tennis at Peake Gardens
Action 2.13.2
Provide observation facilities at the following locations to take advantage of views of the Adelaide Airport:
• Kitt Street Reserve
• Britton Street Reserve
• Watson Lewis Reserve
Page 41 of 46

Action 2.13.3
Promote and maintain the heritage character and cultural significance of the following reserves:
• Aroona Place Reserve
• Sandison Reserve
• Cummins House
Action 2.13.1
Develop community gardens within open spaces. Consider the following locations:
• Clifford Street Reserve
• West Side Bikeway
Action 2.13.2
Investigate productive street plantings within a trial site via engaging the community to increase ownership, and review merits for roll out
across Council.
Action 2.14.1
Determine the extent and location of open space of Kaurna cultural significance and work with the Kaurna people to acknowledge and
respect their heritage in the landscape.
Action 2.15.1
Undertake analysis, including community consultation, into the establishment of a dog park(s) at the following locations:
• Weigall Oval
Objective 3: Making connections
Action 3.2.1
Working in partnership with the City of Charles Sturt, the Adelaide City Council and the State Government, continue to implement the River
Torrens Linear Park Management Plan while also establishing or reinforcing a series of ‘destination’ playspaces, natural habitats and other
recreation opportunities at regular intervals along the Linear Park.
Page 42 of 46

Action 3.3.1
With the State Government, prepare a Structure Plan for the Westside Bikeway which provides clear direction in relation to:
• promotion as a key cycling connection between Adelaide City Council and the City of Holdfast Bay
• the continuation of the Bikeway into the Adelaide City Council and City of Holdfast Bay as a key cycling connection for the Western
Region
• increased housing densities and improved urban design which respect, reinforce and improve the bikeway as a public space
connection
• improved linkages to surrounding suburbs and areas of open space through the use of signage and cycle lanes
• the provision of opportunities for associated activities including community gardens as well as additional facilities such as fitness
equipment, shade, trees, shelters, barbecues etc
• consistent approaches to the treatment of road crossings, path width/design, lighting and signage.
Action 3.4.1
Explore the potential to increase connection to the coast through agreement with Cities of Charles Sturt and Holdfast Bay and Adelaide
Shores to increase east/west connections
Action 3.4.2
Increase natural landscape qualities of the coastline to increase habitat connections and biodiversity
Action 3.5.1
Prepare concept designs for the development of linear reserves with associated environmental rehabilitation initiatives along the following
waterways:
• Keswick Creek
• Sturt Creek
• Brownhill Creek
• Adelaide Airport ring-route
Action 3.7.1
Review Council's Strategic Bicycle Plan and Transport Strategy to provide better integration with open space and public place planning.
Objective 4: Vibrant public place
Action 4.1.1
Implement the recommendations of the West Torrens Corridor Structure Plan Report for Sir Donald Bradman, Henley Beach Road and
Airport Road.
Action 4.1.2
Undertake structure planning projects for Anzac Highway, Port Road and the Westside Bikeway.
Page 43 of 46

Action 4.1.3
Lobby/with the State Government to manage the potential impact of the South Road upgrade on the associated public place of the corridor
and develop design responses that mitigate the effect of traffic on the surrounding suburbs
Action 4.1.4
Increase the public place and landscape amenity of the following roads to improve public space within the City:
• Sir Donald Bradman Drive
• Henley Beach Road
• Anzac Highway
• Port Road
• Airport Road
• Brooker Terrace
• Bagot Avenue
Action 4.3.1
In association with the recommendations of the West Torrens Corridor Structure Plan, develop a gateway statement at Mulga Street Reserve
at the intersection of Sir Donald Bradman Drive and Marion Road.
Action 4.5.1
Review Council's Transport Strategy and Asset Management Plans to incorporate link and place assessment of corridors.
Objective 5: Caring for our open space
Action 5.1.1
Establish a cross departmental working group within Council to progress opportunities to increase the provision of accessible open space
through:
• Developer contributions
• Formal access agreements with schools, church owned and private open space
• Agreements with adjoining Councils
• Access to parts of golf courses for informal recreational opportunities such as walking and cycling
Action 5.1.2
Develop an Asset Management Plan – Open Space which will consolidate Council’s requirements under Section 122 and 196 of the Local
Government Act (1999) and aid in the effective management and maintenance of Council’s open space assets in line with this Strategy’s
direction.
Action 5.1.3
Develop management guidelines built upon maintenance and development principles that ensure open space and public places are
responsive to the community; and establish maintenance standards based on the open space hierarchy.
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Action 5.2.1
Develop an asset renewal and depreciation programme for open space that includes vegetation, paths, street furniture, recreational facilities,
irrigation, toilets, lighting and play equipment.
Action 5.5.1
Update the ‘Parks and Playgrounds’ section of Council’s website to include photos of the reserve, additional information about the available
facilities and an ‘electronic suggestion box’ to encourage community feedback.
Action 5.5.2
Develop a map of the Council area which identifies areas of open space.
Action 5.5.3
Introduce way finding – directional signage to ensure consistent promotion of open space across the Council area for pedestrians and
cyclists.
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Appendix
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