Tim Neville Arboretum multipurpose reserve in Ferntree Gully is a popular, local outdoor space in Knox. We are improving the playspace within the reserve to ensure it meets the needs of the community now and into the future.

Thank you to all participants who provided feedback during the first round of community consultation about what you'd like to see included in the new playspace design. Comments included:

  • a water play area
  • more seating, picnic tables, shelter and a shade cover
  • more accessible play elements, including a flying fox
  • a new sandpit area
  • more swings
  • a bigger slide

Using your ideas, we have developed a detailed concept design. We ask you to review the design and tell us if we’ve got it right. Refer to the 'Share your thoughts' section below.

Project details

The proposed design concept retains the castle and dragon theme from the original playspace built in the 90's.

Some of the key features of the proposed new playspace include:

  • a dragon themed water play area
  • a new sandpit with water play
  • a large, wide slide
  • a 'quad bay' swing set
  • a new drawbridge
  • multiple interactive play elements.

The new playspace will also:

  • be fully fenced and have access gates in two locations.
  • have additional picnic seating

We are dedicated to creating an all-inclusive playspace where all children, no matter their ability, age, cultural and social background, can play together side-by-side and where parents, grandparents and carers feel welcome too.

Following the motto of 'Can I get there?' 'Can I play?' and 'Can I stay?' the proposed design addresses these considerations, aiming to make the playspace accessible at all times from arrival at the carpark, accessing play equipment to using the public facilities.

The proposed design also endeavors to include:

- wheelchair-accessible ramps to as many parts of the new playground as possible.

- a pragmatic organisation dynamic display (PODD) communication board to help children who struggle with verbal communication to identify playspace elements

- a guide to each playspace area and the type of play involved, such as motion play, imaginative play, sensory play and social play.

We have teamed up with consultants ACLA to create a highly original and magical detailed designed concept based on feedback received during the initial consultation phase in October 2021. This included a total of 62 comments listed via the Knox Have Your Say webpage and social media platforms.

Refer to the community engagement summary below for further information.

Playspace concept design

The proposed design creates an engaging playspace for children of all ages and abilities. Each section has fun and interactive elements for different styles of play.

How to explore the proposed playspace design

  • Click on the coloured icons on the illustration below to see an image and description of each new playground feature.
  • View a full sized version of the map by clicking the arrows in the right hand corner.

Share your thoughts

To share feedback, you can attend an in-person drop-in session, complete an online survey, or contact us via email or mail:

  • Drop-in Session 1 - Friday 12 May, 2.30 pm to 4 pm
    Tim Neville Arboretum Playground, 98 Dorset Rd, Ferntree Gully VIC 3156
  • Drop-in Session 2 - Saturday 13 May, 9.30 am to 11 am
    Tim Neville Arboretum Playground, 98 Dorset Rd, Ferntree Gully VIC 3156
  • Complete the online form below
  • Email: openspace@knox.vic.gov.au

  • Mail: Tim Neville Arboretum Play Space, Open Space Department, Knox City Council, Reply Paid 70243, WANTIRNA SOUTH VIC 3152

Consultation closes Monday 29 May 2023.

Timeline

  • Timeline item 1 - complete

    Share memories

    Share your favourite moments at the playground.

  • Timeline item 2 - complete

    Gather ideas

    Let us know what would you like to see in the playground.

  • Timeline item 3 - complete

    Prepare a detailed concept

    We prepare the detailed concept based on your feedback.

  • Timeline item 4 - active

    Have your say on the detailed concept

    Provide your feedback on the detailed concept.

  • Timeline item 5 - incomplete

    Prepare final design and documentation

    Based on recent feedback, we will refine some elements before preparing the final plans.

  • Timeline item 6 - incomplete

    Tender for a contractor

    Council will tender for a contractor to build the new playground.

  • Timeline item 7 - incomplete

    Build the playground

    We will bring your vision to life.

Contact us

If you have a question or want to find out more about this project, please contact us:

Name Open Space and Landscape Design Team
Phone 03 9298 8781
Email openspace@knox.vic.gov.au