EDD site assessment Molonglo / Weston Creek swimming facility

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

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Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

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Executive Summary The ACT Government announced as part of its 2012 election platform that it would commit $33 million to build a new 50 metre indoor pool in the Weston Creek area and that the feasibility of a site in Molonglo and a site close to the Weston Creek Group Centre would be investigated prior to determining a preferred location for the pool and associated facilities.

The purpose of the study was to identify and assess alternative sites for an aquatic recreation facility. Five sites were identified. These were: 

Block 3 Section 22 Weston (Site 1)



Block 19 Section 45 Holder (Site 2)



Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga (Site 3)



Block 9 Section 24 Stirling (Site 4), and



Molonglo North Wright (Site 5).

The study developed site assessment criteria against which each site was assessed in a consistent and transparent manner. The site assessment criteria were based on the ESDD Community and Recreation Facilities General Code and a review of various studies being undertaken by Sport and Recreation Services in the Economic Development Directorate (EDD). The criteria included consistency with the Territory Plan, adequacy of the site area and configuration, location, estimated demand within the catchment area, opportunities for multi-purpose trips and co-location opportunities.

Sites 1-4 do not meet many of the assessment criteria. For example the proposed development is not permissible on Sites 1, 3 and 4, the site configuration and characteristics such as the location of pedestrian paths and trees, constrains development on Sites 1 and 2, Sites 3 and 4 are too close to residential development and Site 3 is surrounded on all sides, not visible from surrounding roads and access would be difficult.

Sites 1 and 2 do not enable co-location opportunities and these are limited on Sites 3 and 4. Similarly opportunities for multi-purpose trips are limited on Sites 2, 3 and 4.

The assessment concluded that Site 5 (Molonglo) best meets the assessment criteria and is therefore the preferred site. The site zoning is consistent with the Territory Plan, the site is large enough to accommodate the facility, is accessed and visible from major roads and offers co-location opportunities while being separated from residential areas. The site is adjacent to Stromlo Park and there are considerable opportunities to benefit from the colocation of these complementary activities. The two facilities could share parking and the co-location will generate additional visitors and usage for both activities. However this will only be achieved if the master planning of each facility is co-ordinated and recognises the co-location opportunities. The current master planning of Stromlo Park could be reviewed to assess if there are ways to better integrate the two facilities.

The development of the aquatic and recreation facility in Molonglo will provide a focal point for the developing district. At the same time the location of the facility will serve much of Weston Creek and is also accessible from Woden.

The report recommends that the aquatic and recreation facility should be developed in Molonglo (Site 5).

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

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Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

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Table of Contents Executive Summary .......................................................................... i 1 1.1 1.2

INTRODUCTION 1 Background and Purpose .............................................................................1 Report Structure.........................................................................................1

2 2.1

CONTEXT 2 Policy Context ...........................................................................................2 2.1.1 ACTIVE 2020 Strategic Plan ....................................................................... 2 2.1.2 Draft Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework .................................................. 2 2.1.3 Molonglo Aquatic Sports and Recreation Facility Feasibility Study (Hassell) ....... 3 Distribution of District Pools in Canberra ........................................................3 Development of Molonglo ............................................................................5 Role of Molonglo and Weston Creek ..............................................................5

2.2 2.3 2.4 3 3.1 3.2 3.3

SITE REQUIREMENTS & LOCATIONAL CRITERIA 8 Site Requirements ......................................................................................8 Catchment Population .................................................................................9 3.2.1 Existing population .................................................................................... 9 3.2.2 Projected population ................................................................................ 10 Locational Criteria..................................................................................... 10 3.3.1 ESDD Locational Guidelines ...................................................................... 10 3.3.2 Guidelines in Aquatic Facilities Framework .................................................. 11 3.3.3 Feasibility Study ...................................................................................... 12 3.3.4 Proposed Criteria ..................................................................................... 12

4 4.1

ALTERNATIVE SITES 14 Description of the Sites ............................................................................. 15 4.1.1 Site 1 – Weston Creek (Block 3 Section 22 Weston) .................................... 15 4.1.2 Site 2 –Block 19 Section 45 Holder ........................................................... 16 4.1.3 Site 3 –Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga ..................................................... 17 4.1.4 Site 4 – Block 9 Section 24 Stirling ........................................................... 18 4.1.5 Site 5 - Molonglo: North Wright ................................................................ 19

5 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.10 5.11 5.12 5.13

ASSESSMENT OF THE SITES 21 Territory Plan and Land Tenure ................................................................... 21 Land Tenure ............................................................................................ 21 Catchments and Population ....................................................................... 22 Site Area and Block Configuration ............................................................... 24 Site Location ........................................................................................... 25 Access to Public Parking ........................................................................... 27 Public Transport ....................................................................................... 28 Co-location opportunities ........................................................................... 29 Multi-purpose trips.................................................................................... 31 Visibility .................................................................................................. 31 Connections ............................................................................................ 32 Other issue - Impact on open space ............................................................ 32 Summary of Site Assessment..................................................................... 33

6

PREFERRED LOCATION

37

7

CONCLUSION

38

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Figures Figure 1: District and Other Major Aquatic Facilities in the ACT ................................... 4 Figure 2: Molonglo Development Pattern .................................................................. 6 Figure 3: Relationship between Molonglo, Weston Creek and Woden ........................... 7 Figure 4: Alternative Sites.....................................................................................14 Figure 5: Site 1 - Block 3 Section 22 Weston ..........................................................15 Figure 6: Site 2 - Block 19 Section 45 Holder ..........................................................16 Figure 7: Site 3 - Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga ....................................................17 Figure 8: Site 4 - Block 93 Section 24 Stirling .........................................................18 Figure 9: Site 5 - Molonglo....................................................................................19 Figure 10: Site 5 Context .......................................................................................20 Figure 11: Catchment areas ....................................................................................23 Figure 12: North Wright Concept Plan ......................................................................27 Figure 13: Bus Routes within the Weston Creek and Molonglo Catchment .....................29

Tables Table 1:

Potential Site Area Breakdown .................................................................. 9

Table 2:

ACT Population Growth per District 2009 - 2021 .......................................10

Table 3:

Community and Recreational Facilities Location Guidelines General Code requirements for Indoor Recreation Facility .................................................11

Table 4:

Site Assessment Criteria .........................................................................13

Table 5:

Catchment area populations .....................................................................22

Table 6:

Assessment criteria and preferred site .......................................................33

Table 7:

Summary of Site Assessment ..................................................................34

Any representation, statement, opinion or advice expressed or implied in this publication is made in good faith but on the basis that Purdon Associates, its agents and employees are not liable to any person for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur, in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action, in respect of any representation, statement or advice referred to in this report.

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

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Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

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1 1.1

Introduction Background and Purpose

Sport and recreation is an important aspect of the lives of most people in the ACT, helping to improve our overall health and well being, and contributing to social connection.

Sporting facilities are an important focal point of a community: they are places where families and friends come together; they provide opportunities to participate in sport and to recreate; and they contribute to healthy lifestyles. Canberra is Australia’s largest inland City. The city’s aquatic facilities therefore make a significant contribution not only to the community’s quality of life but also to its access to water.

Indoor aquatic and recreation centres are significant pieces of community infrastructure that contribute to a district’s identity and together with other social infrastructure influence where people want to live and work. When designed thoughtfully and/or colocated with other elements of community infrastructure and services they become hubs of community activity, providing opportunities for the development of invaluable social connections and community engagement. They are significant economic entities and are pivotal to the development and maintenance of community health, wellbeing and fitness.

Aquatic facilities enable children to engage with water and critical learning for their water safety.

As part of its 2012 election platform, the ACT Government announced that it would commit $33 million to build a new 50 metre indoor pool in the Weston Creek area. It also announced that a feasibility study was being undertaken for a pool site north of Stromlo Forest Park and that the feasibility of a site close to the Weston Creek Centre would also be investigated prior to deciding on the best site for the district.

The purpose of this report is to assess alternative sites in Weston Creek and Molonglo to identify the most appropriate site for the proposed pool facility. The report addresses the Government’s commitment to investigate sites in the two districts before determining a preferred location for the aquatic and recreation facility.

1.2

Report Structure

The report considers the planning framework for the provision of a new aquatic and recreation facility in Weston Creek/Molonglo, considers demographic trends and developments criteria against which the alternative sites are assessed to identify a preferred site.

Section 2 considers the policy context, pattern of development of Molonglo and population projections for Weston Creek and Molonglo. Section 3 considers site requirements and assessment criteria and Section 4 assesses the alternative sites.

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2

Context

Two key strategies establish the framework for planning for the development of an aquatic facility for Weston Creek and Molonglo. In addition, EDD has investigated the activities to be included in an aquatic and recreation centre and possible locations in Molonglo.

2.1

Policy Context

2.1.1 ACTIVE 2020 Strategic Plan ACTIVE 2020 is a long term strategic plan for sport and active recreation in the ACT and Region. It provides a blueprint upon which sport and recreation will be nurtured and promoted over the period 2011-2020. It promotes partnerships between industry and government and investment in long term sustainable outcomes. Importantly ACTIVE 2020 allows for long term planning by sport and recreation associations in the ACT and Region.

ACTIVE 2020 embodies three fundamental goals that are pursued by most sport and recreation organisations in the ACT: 

to increase participation in competitive, non-competitive and social sport and recreation activities at all levels;



to provide opportunities for achieving excellence in sporting performance; and



to ensure access to sustainable and quality infrastructure for the delivery of their activities.

The Plan also includes seven strategic priorities. A strategic initiative of Priority 1 (maximise community engagement/participation in sport and active recreation) is to improve access to sport and recreation. Priority 7 seeks to maximise sporting infrastructure and includes the strategic initiative of promoting greater creation and use of multi-sport, recreation and community facilities.

2.1.2 Draft Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework Sport and Recreation Services within the Economic Development Directorate is developing an Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework 2012-2032.

The draft Framework presents a vision of community access to, and participation in, quality aquatic facilities, programs and services. The Framework builds on and complements other strategies, including ACTIVE 2020.

The objectives of the Framework include to: 

facilitate universal access to aquatic facilities



allow for suitable sites that ensure optimal design of facilities, and



encourage the co-location of aquatic facilities with functionally diverse district facilities to encourage the development of community activity hubs and efficient transport connections.

The goals of the Framework include to: 

identify areas of greatest need



identify co-location opportunities, and



establish the potential scale of future facilities.

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The draft Framework recognises that Molonglo will require aquatic facilities to meet the needs of its future population. It also recognises that the new Molonglo population, combined with the population of Weston Creek and Woden Valley will support a facility.

2.1.3 Molonglo Aquatic Sports and Recreation Facility Feasibility Study (Hassell) In October 2012, Hassell conducted a feasibility study for a possible Aquatic Sport and Recreation Centre in Molonglo. The key objectives of the study were to determine where, what land size and the facilities that are required to meet the future aquatic and indoor sport/recreational needs of the Molonglo community. The feasibility study was prepared to help guide the future planning decisions regarding the potential provision of an aquatic/leisure centre in Molonglo.

The feasibility study found that a district level facility was most appropriate to serve Molonglo and Weston Creek. The study considered three sites and concluded that a site located at the gateway to Stromlo Forest Park and near the Molonglo/Coombs community precinct and River Park was the only viable site. The study proposed that the facility should incorporate aquatic and recreational facilities and community, commercial and health facilities. The preferred site in Molonglo is included in the following assessment.

2.2

Distribution of District Pools in Canberra

District facilities provide the widest public access with multi-purpose and community based programs. They generally provide 50 metre and/or 25 metre 8-10 lane pools, usually to Olympic standard. In addition district facilities usually include learn to swim and water play facilities for young children and available for use all of the year (i.e. indoor facility). A district facility would typically provide a range of year round programs and could support aquatic and non-aquatic health and fitness, and social and community activities. These facilities are increasingly co-located with dry fitness, other sport and recreation, community, education and health and retail facilities.

Ideally because of the scale and range of activities, district facilities should be closely linked with other community facilities and with shopping centres and schools. They should also be well connected to the public transport and movement networks.

Major district level facilities are located at Tuggeranong (Lakeside Leisure Centre), CISAC Belconnen (Canberra International Swimming and Aquatic Centre), Canberra Olympic Pool in the city centre and Gungahlin Leisure Centre, which is currently under construction (Figure 1). These facilities are intended to meet district-wide needs.

The draft Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework notes that district facilities have a catchment that is about 10km in diameter. Based on this catchment definition, Molonglo and Weston Creek are serviced by existing facilities in Woden, Tuggeranong and Canberra Central. However the ageing and outdated standard of Phillip Swimming and Ice Skating Centre, which is a seasonal pool, together with population growth in Molonglo reinforces the need for a district facility. Further, there are fewer district facilities south of Lake Burley Griffin than to the north and this area is considered ‘generally under-served by existing aquatic facilities1.

In the southern districts of Canberra there are also several major facilities that provide some district-type facilities, however they are not designated as district facilities partly because they are not open all year (Figure 1).

1

Hassell: Molonglo Aquatic Sports and Recreation Centre – Feasibility Study (October 2012) p18

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There are many other, generally smaller aquatic facilities within Canberra that provide specialised or local facilities but the above facilities service district level communities.

Figure 1:

District and Other Major Aquatic Facilities in the ACT

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2.3

Development of Molonglo

Molonglo is a new urban release area located on the western edge of Canberra. The land sits between the established suburbs of Cook/Macquarie in the north and Duffy/Holder and Weston in the south.

The planning capacity of the district is about 58,000 persons of which about 27,600 will live south of the river and 31,400 will live north of the river.

Molonglo will be developed in three stages. Stages 1 and 2 are located on the southern bank of the Molonglo River and Stage 3 is located on the northern bank. The areas will be linked by a new arterial road and public transport spine, John Gorton Drive.

Stage 1 is currently under construction and includes the new suburbs of Coombs and Wright. The suburbs are adjacent to Stromlo Forest Park. Stage 2 is located to the northwest of Coombs and will contain the Molonglo group centre. Planning for Stage 2 is underway and development is expected to commence in the next 5-10 years. Stage 3 is located to the north of the Molonglo River and will be primarily residential with two smaller centres. Development is likely to commence in the next 10+ years. It is likely that a proposed aquatic facility will be located in either Stage 1 or 2 closest to the group centre (Figure 2).

2.4

Role of Molonglo and Weston Creek

From a planning perspective, Weston Creek has always been regarded as part of the district of Woden-Weston Creek. District-wide facilities have generally been located in the Woden town centre (WTC) and are intended to serve both areas. Sub-district facilities or facilities that serve a group of suburbs have been located in the Weston Creek Group Centre. This centre is the largest of all the group centres and provides a more diverse range of goods and services than is usually found in a group centre, mainly because the size of the catchment population is larger. Over time Weston Creek residents and community organisations have requested that town centre-type facilities be located in or in the vicinity of the Weston Creek Group Centre.

Social and community activity in Molonglo will also be based around a group centre and a town centre is not being planned for the district. The group centre is to be located to the north of Wright in the vicinity of the Molonglo River.

The development of Molonglo is likely to change the relationship between Woden and Weston Creek. Together Molonglo and Weston Creek will be large enough to support some town centre scale activities. While many facilities and services that serve Weston Creek and at least parts of Molonglo will continue to be located in the WTC, some districtwide facilities that are intended to serve the three areas could be located in Weston Creek or Molonglo. Facilities provided in one area would be used by residents of the others (Figure 3). Over time Molonglo and Weston Creek are likely to be closely inter-related. In this context the challenge will be to ensure an appropriate distribution of facilities that maximises access, ensures that residents of Weston Creek continue to have access to a wide range of facilities and services and that Molonglo can develop its own identify and character based partly on the range of facilities and services located there.

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Figure 2:

Molonglo Development Pattern

POTENTIAL SITE FOR AQUATIC SPORT AND RECREATION FACILITY

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Figure 3:

Relationship between Molonglo, Weston Creek and Woden

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3

Site Requirements & Locational Crite ria

The following outlines the site requirements and locational criteria for district level aquatic and recreational facility.

3.1

Site Requirements

As noted above, the various studies have concluded that a district facility is required to meet the needs of Molonglo and Weston Creek residents.

District facilities provide the widest public access with multi-purpose and community based programs. Although the facilities would vary between district facilities depending on the characteristics of the catchment population, district level aquatic and recreation facilities would typically include: 

50m indoor pool / 25 metre indoor pool



warm water program pool



water play area



fitness gym



multi-Purpose program rooms



health and Medical Consulting suites



community and Training meeting room(s)



outdoor summer social and water play settings



meeting rooms for local clubs and groups,



cafe and social area,



occasional child care, or early years facilities, and



co-located functions, partner facilities, programs and services as identified.

The Feasibility Study indicates that the proposed facility would include a range of uses and about 11,350m2 GFA (Table 1). The Hassell report assumed that 300 car spaces were required for the facility. On this basis it estimated that a site of about 2ha would required to accommodate the proposed uses and associated parking.

The parking requirements were reviewed as part of the current project. If the aquatic and recreation centre was to be located on land zoned Commercial Leisure and Accommodation (CZ6). Based on the activities proposed to be located in the facility and the provisions of the Vehicular Access and Parking General Code, it is estimated that about 460 car spaces would be required, assuming that some uses are ancillary to other uses and therefore would not generate additional parking demand. In this circumstance, the proposed development would occupy at least 2.5ha and a site of about 2.8ha would be required assuming single level development and allowing for landscaping and access/egress (Table 1).

If the facility was to be located on land zoned Restricted Access Open Space, the parking code requires about 550 parking spaces be provided. Thus the development would occupy an area of about 2.8ha and require a site of about 3.3ha.

The above areas are indicative and depending on the site configuration and with careful planning it may be possible to reduce the area requirements slightly. Further if the scale of development was reduced, the parking requirements and hence the site area requirements would also be reduced. For example deleting the theatrette would reduce requirements by over 60 spaces..

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Table 1:

Potential Site Area Breakdown Parking for Zone Area (m2)

Accommodation and leisure

Restricted access

1200

42

42

Medical

200

Na*

na

Community

600

73

73

Indoor Courts

3200

75

75

Aquatic

2900

270

360

Miscellaneous

450

na

na

Administration

200

na*

na

460

550

Parking (@ 30m2/space)

13800m2

16500m2

Total development area (ex landscaping)

25,100m2

27,800m2

2.8ha

3.1ha

Functional Zones Gym

Functional Areas Gross area (30% circulation/services)

8750 11350

Total parking

Site area (approx)

Source: Hassell: Molonglo Aquatic Sports and Recreation Facility Study Section 6.3 Note: Floorspace estimates have been rounded to nearest 50m2 from those in the report.

Parking estimates are based on Code requirements and functional areas in the Hassell report * Uses ancillary to other facilities

3.2

Catchment Population

The draft Planning Framework indicates that district facilities require a catchment population of more than 30,000. The Feasibility Study proposes that a district or sub-ACT facility requires a catchment population of 50,000 or 80,000 – 100,000 people.

The Feasibility Study recommended that the facility should have a long term primary catchment population of 80,000 people covering the areas of Weston Creek and Molonglo.

Woden would form a secondary catchment and the total catchment population would be 113,000.

3.2.1 Existing population Weston Creek In 2011, the population of Weston Creek was 23,600 people. The population peaked in 1986 (26,900 people) and has declined in each inter-census period since. In conjunction with the gradual decline, the population is ageing. In 2011, 24% of the Weston Creek population was aged 60 years and over.

Woden In 2011, the population of Woden was 33,887 people. The population has gradually increased since 2001 with the population expected to peak in 2012 at 34,300, and then remain fairly consistent until 2021 with a projected population of 33,600. In 2011, 18% of the population was aged 60 years and over.

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Molonglo In 2011, the population of Molonglo was 29 people. As Molonglo develops, the population is expected to increase dramatically with projected populations of 10,450 by 2016 and 20,600 by 2021. It is anticipated that young families will form a substantial proportion of the initial Molonglo population.

3.2.2 Projected population Between 2012 and 2021, the population of both Woden and Weston Creek is projected to decline by 2% and 7% respectively. The population of Molonglo will increase eightfold in the same period, albeit it from a very low base (Table 2).

The total catchment population is projected to increase from 60,100 in 2012 to 78,100 in 2021. Over the same period the population of the primary catchment is projected to increase from 23,800 to 42,500.

Table 2:

ACT Population Growth per District 2009 - 2021

District

2009

2012

2015

2018

2021

Change

Woden

33,800

34,300

38,850

33,500

33,650

-150

Weston Creek

23,300

23,550

22,850

22,050

21,850

-1,450

250

7,450

15,350

20,600

20,600

60,112

71,165

72,918

78,121

19,000

Molonglo Total Catchment

59,109

Source: ACT Population Projections for Suburbs and Districts: 2001-2021 Summary

3.3

Locational Criteria

Locational criteria were developed to consistently and objectively assess the suitability of the alternative sites for an aquatic and recreational facility. The assessment criteria were developed from three sources: 

ACTPLA Community and Recreational Facilities Location Guidelines General Code



ACT Government Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework (2012 -2032) (draft), and



Molonglo Sports and Recreation Centre Feasibility Study.

3.3.1 ESDD Locational Guidelines The Community and Recreational Facilities Location Guidelines General Code outlines guidelines for the location of community and recreational facilities. The Code forms part of the Territory Plan and is used in making decisions about where to locate facilities, including facilities for indoor recreation, such as a swimming complex. The Code is not intended to be a rigid standard but rather to provide a guide in determining suitable sites and locations for facilities. The objectives of the Code are: 

to protect and enhance social amenity for all ACT residents and visitors, including access to services, safety and equity in the distribution of facilities



to maximise efficient land use, accessibility and convenience for uses through clustering related facilities and encouraging shared use, and



to protect and enhance residential amenity for ACT residents while meeting the need to provide access to facilities best located in residential areas.

The code requirements for an indoor recreation facility are outlined in Table 3.

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Table 3:

Community and Recreational Facilities Location Guidelines General Code requirements for Indoor Recreation Facility

Development

Indoor Recreation Centre (pool, gym, indoor courts etc) Swimming Complex; Tennis Centre

Relationship to Shops At town or group retail centre

Relationship to other uses – Close to Near major car parking areas if parking demand not met on site

Separated From

Co-location Opportunity

Social separation of youth facilities and liquor outlets Noise separation or adequately noise buffered from residential areas

Outdoor recreation facilities; enclosed oval; skating rink; school; secondary college; gym; indoor courts; community arts and cultural facilities; youth resources centre

Other Issues Safe drop-off area at or near site; bus bays Close proximity to licensed club may be appropriate if other relationships (e.g. with school are colleges) are not compromised

In addition, the Code includes general criteria: 

all community and recreation facilities that are used by the public should be located on or near public transport routes which provide services which are appropriate to the user group of the facility and generally within 500 metres or 400 metres for older people and 200 metres for young children.



community facilities generally should be located near retail centres in a position that is relatively central to their long-term catchment and at a level of the urban hierarchy that is appropriate to their size and scale.



compatible facilities should be clustered and facilities, including parking, shared wherever possible to increase participation opportunities.



mixed uses must be compatible in scale and consistent with neighbouring uses.



facilities used at night should also be located to enable informal surveillance or ‘overlooking’ by other activity in the area or by passing traffic.

3.3.2 Guidelines in Aquatic Facilities Framework The Draft ACT Government Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework outlines planning and design principles and guidelines for aquatic facilities within the ACT. From a locational perspective the planning and design principles can be restated as: 

Maximise the benefits of co-location: locate the facility in proximity to other complementary activities and diversify the mix of uses.



Connecting recreational networks: locate aquatic facilities within the broader ACT recreational network.

 

Accessibility: clear, adequate connections.

High quality connections to the surrounding public realm, pedestrian and cycle pathways.



Infrastructure connections: design of surrounding public domain, open space and streets should maximise interconnections with the facility. The facility should be connected with the surrounding neighbourhood.



Transport: all modes of transport are to be accessible. Public transport frequency and access will be critical to maximising use of the facility. Building site should be easily accessible by public transport routes and cars and within walking distance of some potential users.

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

Visibility: A prominent location is required to attract a large number of people to the facilities.



Security: a high concentration of activity will complement security and achieve the level of safety public facilities require.

The draft Framework also identifies spatial needs and area requirements that should be taken into account in developing locational criteria. These include: 

Site capacity: the site should be large enough to provide a sufficient square or broad rectangular site “footprint” for the planning of integrated buildings, associated uses and future expansion.



Integrate with surrounding land use: to maximise connections and encourage colocation. The facility should not be isolated but in proximity to shopping centres, education and facilities.

 

Efficiency: encourage efficient use of land.

Flexibility: allow for future flexibility and adaptations of use.

3.3.3 Feasibility Study Based on the study of social infrastructure requirements for Molonglo2, the Feasibility Study outlines over-arching location principles and guidelines for not only aquatic and recreation facilities but community facilities in general. These include: 

central to the catchment area and provide equitable access to all potential users



accessible by public transport



connected to pedestrian and cycling networks



on a main street with a ground floor street presence for optimum visibility and accessibility



clustered with other facilities such as shops, schools and other community facilities



near open space to allow for related outdoor activities and community events



near sporting, recreation and leisure facilities to create a healthy and active focus



on sufficient land to enable expansion and adaptation as needs change, and



sited to avoid conflict with neighbouring uses.

3.3.4 Proposed Criteria Based on the above sources, criteria were developed and used to assess the feasibility and suitability of the alternative sites (Table 4).

The criteria include access to public transport, parking and opportunities for co-location and multi-purpose trips. The ACT Government and Hassell documents discuss the importance of access to public transport, parking, and co-location and multi-purpose trips for viability.

2

Elton Consulting:

Social Infrastructure for Molonglo Suburbe 3, 4 and Group Centre (2010) (for ACTPLA)

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Table 4:

Site Assessment Criteria

Criteria

Requirement

Territory Plan

Land use permitted in zone Consistent with Territory Plan

Land Tenure

Unleased Territory Land/ Government as custodian Preferably not used by community or Government

Site Area (Size and configuration)

Site is sufficiently large to accommodate the development, including parking (2.8ha – 3.1ha) On sufficient land to enable expansion and adaptation as needs change Regular shaped block to enable efficient development

Catchment population

Catchment is sufficient to support facility e.g. 50,000 – 80,000 people for a district facility

Location

Located at town or group retail centre or within close proximity or clustered with other similar facilities such as shopping centres, schools and other community facilities Central location to catchment area with equitable access for all users Noise separation or adequately noise buffered from residential areas Facilities are compatible with surrounding uses

Parking

Parking provision in accordance with parking code requirements Opportunities for shared parking and determined with needs of future expansion Located near major car parking areas if parking demand is not met on site Safe drop off area at or near the site, bus bay

Public Transport

Access to public transport routes serving district Sufficient frequency of services to the site Not more than 400m and preferably 200m from bus stop or within walking distance

Co-location opportunities

Proximity and possible co-location with other similar facilities e.g. outdoor recreation facilities; enclosed oval; skating rink; school; secondary college; gym; indoor courts; community arts and cultural facilities; youth resources centre Complementary mix of uses to maximize benefits of co-location Near open space to allow for related outdoor activities and community events Near sporting, recreation and leisure facilities to create a healthy and active focus

Multi-purpose trips

Opportunity to combine visit to aquatic recreation facility with other activities (shopping, health services, community services, food) Capacity to maximise multi-purpose trips and minimise the number of trips

Visibility

Prominent location to attract a large number of people On main street with ground floor street presence

Connections

Connected to the surrounding neighbourhood, public realm and cycle pathways

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4

Alternative Sites

The election announcement stated that sites ‘close to the Weston Creek Group Centre’ would be investigated. For the purpose of this study ‘close to the Weston Creek Group Centre was defined to be approximately 1km from the edges of the Group Centre. This included Weston and parts of Holder, Waramanga, Stirling and Rivett. In addition the assessment also investigates a potential site within Molonglo.

Five sites in three locations were identified for the proposed aquatic and recreation facility within Weston Creek/Molonglo catchment. The sites were: 

Block 3 Section 22 Weston (Site 1)



Block 19 Section 45 Holder (Site 2)



Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga (Site 3)



Block 9 Section 24 Stirling (Site 4)



Molonglo North Wright (Site 5)

The sites are described in the following sub-section and their suitability is assessed throughout the balance of this section. The assessment does not include detailed site investigations and it is assumed all services are available to the selected sites.

Figure 4:

Alternative Sites

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4.1

Description of the Sites

4.1.1 Site 1 – Weston Creek (Block 3 Section 22 Weston) Block 3 Section 22 is located about 400 metres from the Weston Creek Group Centre (from the skate park to the northern entry to Coolaman Court) and is the closest site to the centre under consideration. The site contains three development options (Figure 5).

The site is not part of the area identified as the group centre in the Territory Plan, however it is part of the Weston Creek Master Plan study area. The site is bounded by Hilder Street to the north, a community facility to the east, an outdoor tennis complex/courts to the south and vegetation and Streeton Drive to the west. Cricket batting and bowling training facilities and the Weston Skate Park are located near the southern boundary of the site.

The site is currently an oval for the suburb of Weston but is not irrigated. Sport and Recreation Services have advised that subject to future planning decisions and the provision of sports grounds in Molonglo, Weston Oval may be restored in the future to assist in accommodating the needs of Molonglo. The Weston Creek Centre master planning has taken this possible future use into account. The preliminary master plan proposes that over the next 10 years the future use of the oval is ‘on hold’ for possible use with Molonglo ovals and that over the following 10-20 years the status of the oval would be reviewed.

Detailed assessment of the feasibility of this site is provided in Section 5.

Figure 5:

Site 1 - Block 3 Section 22 Weston

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4.1.2 Site 2 –Block 19 Section 45 Holder Block 19 Section 45 is located 550m north from the Weston Group Centre in the suburb of Holder (Figure 6). The site fronts Streeton Drive on the east and the stormwater channel on the west. An east-west pedestrian path bisects the site.

The site contains several trees that would need to be removed if the area is to be developed. Urban Open Space and Mulley Street are located to the south of the site, the storm water channel and Canberra Montessori School are located to the west and an archery range to the north.

Detailed assessment of the feasibility of this site is provided in Section 5.

Figure 6:

Site 2 - Block 19 Section 45 Holder

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4.1.3 Site 3 –Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga Block 2 Section 42 is located approximately 1km south-east of the Weston Creek Group Centre (Figure 7).

The site is currently an oval and is located within the Waramanga District Playing Fields that consist of 4 ovals. This part of Waramanga DPF is not irrigated and is utilised by the ACT Veteran’s Athletics for all throwing events. The site has a small frontage to Walpiri Place that connects to Namatjira Drive.

Ovals that are part of the DFP are located to the south of the site. A pedestrian path connecting to the greater Weston Creek separates the oval from adjacent residential development to the east. Residential development is also located to the north, south-west and south-east. The Waramanga Local Centre is located to the east and a church and school along Namatjira Drive are located to the west of the site.

Detailed assessment of the feasibility of this site is provided in Section 5.

Figure 7:

Site 3 - Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga

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4.1.4 Site 4 – Block 9 Section 24 Stirling Block 9 Section 24 is located approximately 1km south-west of the Weston Creek Group Centre (Figure 8). The block comprises four ovals within the Stirling District Playing Fields.

The site under consideration for the proposed aquatic and recreation facility is the oval to the south of Sherratt Place fronting Streeton Drive to the west. The site has been converted to become an AgriDark Turf Nursery. AgriDark is a New Zealand couch grass cultivar.

Netball courts and oval that are part of the Stirling District Playing Fields are located to the north and east of the site. Townhouse residential development is located to the south of the site and detached housing is located to the west.

Detailed assessment of the feasibility of this site is provided in Section 5.

Figure 8:

Site 4 - Block 93 Section 24 Stirling

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4.1.5 Site 5 - Molonglo: North Wright The site is located in North Wright, approximately 4.5km from the Weston Creek Group Centre, with a frontage to John Gorton Drive and the proposed extension of Uriarra Road (east-west), the primary vehicular and public transport spine through Molonglo (Figure 9 and Figure 10) . The western boundary interfaces with Stromlo Forest Park providing a connection to the park following the realignment of Uriarra Road.

Future development to the north will include community and educational facilities and residential development. Detailed assessment of the feasibility of this site is provided in Section 5.

Figure 9:

Site 5 - Molonglo

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Figure 10: Site 5 Context

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5 5.1

Assessment of the Sites Territory Plan and Land Tenure

The land use zones for the sites are:  Site 1 (Weston) PRZ1: Urban Open Space  Site 2 (Holder) PRZ2: Restricted Access Recreation Zone  Site 3 (Waramanga) PRZ1: Urban Open Space  Site 4 (Stirling) PRZ1: Urban Open Space  Site 5 (Molonglo): CZ6:

Leisure and Accommodation Zone and Future Urban Area

Under the Territory Plan definitions, the aquatic and recreation facility is defined as an indoor recreation facility which means “the use of land for sporting activities where such use is primarily indoors.” This use includes a fitness centre, gymnasium, indoor sports stadium, indoor swimming pool, and squash court.

An indoor recreation facility is permissible in the PRZ2: Restricted Access Recreation Zone, and CZ6: Leisure and Accommodation Zone. An indoor recreation facility is not permissible in the PRZ1: Urban Open Space Zone, although outdoor recreation facilities are permissible.

The zoning of Sites 2 and 5 permits an aquatic and recreation facility. However the facility could not be developed on Sites 1, 3 or 4 unless the Territory Plan zoning was varied to permit the proposed use.

A variation to the Territory Plan typically takes 12-18 months and the complexity of the process means that the outcome cannot be guaranteed. A variation would only be feasible if funding for the facility is not likely to be available until 2015/2016.

Rezoning of land from open space to other uses has traditionally been contentious. There is a strong risk that some members of the community could object to the proposed rezoning and also to the proposed development of an aquatic and leisure facility. On the other hand, there are a number of district level playing fields within the vicinity of Sites 1, 3 or 4 and several other local ovals within Weston Creek. The proposed facility could potentially add to the diversity of recreation options and facilities available within the district.

Summary: The proposed facility would be permissible on Sites 2 (Holder) and 5 (Molonglo) under the existing zoning. The remaining sites would require a variation of the Territory Plan to rezone the sites to allow the proposed use.

5.2

Land Tenure

Each of the sites is unleased Territory land. However although Sites 3 and 4 are not leased they are being used for other purposes. If either of these sites was identified for the aquatic centre, it would be necessary to relocate the uses of the sites. The availability of alternate sites has not been investigated.

Similarly as noted above, Sport and Recreation Services have indicated that Site 1 could be required in the future as an oval to meet needs arising in Molonglo. The Site may be required for this purpose because relatively flat land is limited in Molonglo.

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Summary:

5.3

Development of an aquatic facility on Sites 2 or 5 would be more consistent with existing land tenure and would have least impact on the existing and possible future use of Sites 1, 3 and 4.

Catchments and Population

As noted previously, a catchment population of about 50,000 – 80,000 people is required to support the proposed aquatic facility and to ensure its effective use. The population of the of Weston Creek and Molonglo is currently about 60,000 and is projected to increase to about 78,000 by 2021. In addition the existing population of Woden is about 34,300 and is projected to decline to 33,650 by 2021.

Ideally the proposed facility should be located on a site that is accessible from the widest possible area and hence captures a high proportion of the population within two districts.

In other words the facility should be central to its catchment population to ensure that it can capture users from the whole catchment, rather than only part of it.

Figure 11 shows the estimated catchment area for each of the alternative sites. The definition of the catchment areas has taken account of the existing and planned road network and the location of other facilities.

It indicates that the primary catchment areas are as follows: 

Sites 1, 2 and 5 would include all of Weston Creek and Molonglo.



Site 3 would include Weston Creek and the southern suburbs of Molonglo



Site 4 would include Weston Creek and is unlikely to attract a high proportion of users from Molonglo.

Based on the catchment areas defined in Figure 11, Table 5 shows the existing and projected populations. In 2012 the population catchment of each site is comparable however by 2021, the catchment of Sites 1,2 and 5 is the largest.

Summary:

Table 5:

Sites 1, 2 and 5 better serve the potential catchment area than do Sites 3 and 4 and have a larger catchment than does Site 3 or Site 4.

Catchment area populations

Year

Sites 1,2 & 5

Site 3

Site 4

2009

23,300

23,300

23,300

2012

23,800

23,800

23,550

2016

32,950

31,100

22,500

2021

42,450

32,100

21,850

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Figure 11: Catchment areas

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5.4

Site Area and Block Configuration

The site areas are summarised below.

Site

Area

Configuration

Total area – 3.81ha Site 1 (Weston)

Possible sites:

Rectangular – square

Option 1 - 3.5ha (approx)

Bounded by Streeton Drive, Hilder Street, community centre and skateboard park.

Option 2 - 3.2ha (approx) Option 3 - 2.5ha (approx)

Site 2 (Holder)

Total area – 3.19ha

Elongated

South of path – 2ha approx

Bound by the stormwater channel, pedestrian underpass and Streeton Drive

North of path – 1ha approx

Site 3 (Waramanga)

Total area – 6.33ha Possible site – 3ha (approx)

Triangular Bounded by residential development, open space, schools and the local centre.

Site 4 (Stirling)

Total area – 22.88ha Possible site – 3.5ha (approx)

Square Bounded by residential development and open space

Site 5 (Molonglo)

Possible site – 5ha (approx)

Rhomboidal

A site of about 3.3ha would be required to develop an aquatic and recreation facility on Site 2. An east-west pedestrian path divides Site 2. The path connects via an underpass under Streeton Drive to Weston. The area to the south of the park is about 2ha and the area to the north is about 1ha. The whole site would be required to accommodate the facility. It would be possible to integrate the pathway into the parking for the facility. It would also be possible to relocate the path, however this could raise actual or perceived safety concerns regarding where people crossed Streeton Drive. In addition, some existing trees would have to be removed to accommodate the facility. If Site 2 was the preferred location, a tree assessment would be required to establish the impact of removing the trees.

The site is elongated and relatively narrow. Given the configuration of the site, the interface between the parking areas and the building would be restricted and parking areas would be some distance from the building. In addition the site area could not be increased to expand the facility in the future.

Assuming that Sites 1, 3 and 4 were rezoned to Leisure and Accommodation (CZ6), an area of about 2.9ha would be required. The same area of land would be required to accommodate the facility on Site 5.

Site 1 Options 1 and 2 could accommodate the facility, whereas Option 3 is not large enough. Development of Option 1 would necessitate removal of the majority of trees on the site and possible relocation of the pedestrian path leading to the underpass. Option 2 would require removal of the majority of trees to the north of the pedestrian path. If Site 1 is considered as the preferred site, the significance of the trees should to be assessed

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prior to deciding on this location as it may not be possible to remove all the trees. The site configuration would not constrain site planning. The site could not be expanded.

The area of Site 3 is adequate for the proposed facility. It is triangular in shape which could restrict site planning options. The site could not be expanded in the future unless the district playing field to the south was rezoned.

Site 4 could accommodate the aquatic and recreation centre. The site is a regular shape and its configuration does not constrain site planning. The site could only be expanded by rezoning the open space to the north (and loss or relocation of the courts) and realignment of Sherratt Place.

Site 5 could accommodate the facility. The configuration of the site would not constrain site planning. It should be noted that although Site 5 is not a regular shape, the size of the site is considerably larger than is required and therefore various siting opportunities would be possible. The site could accommodate future expansion of the aquatic facility.

Summary: All the sites currently defined could accommodate the recommended site area and building footprint. Site 5 has the greatest potential for future expansion.

Sites 1, 4 and 5 most closely resemble the preferred configuration.

5.5

Site Location

Ideally, indoor recreation facilities should be located at town or group centres. They should also be located in close proximity to, or clustered with similar facilities such as shopping centres, schools and other community facilities. The location of aquatic and recreation facilities should be compatible with surrounding uses.

Site 1 (Weston) is located adjacent to Weston Creek Group Centre and is the closest site to the centre and is within walking distance. The site is adjacent to a regional community centre and the Weston Creek Skate Park. The site is also opposite residential areas of Weston and there is minimal separation between the two uses. Development of the facility in this location could change the neighbourhood character of the area.

Site 1 is located at the intersection of a sub-arterial road and a collector road. Access to the site would be from Hilder Street. There are currently no access points directly from Streeton Drive into individual developments in the area north of Hindmarsh Drive. The traffic implications of creating an entry/exit to Streeton Drive would have to be investigated. Although detailed investigations would be required it is probable that Hilder Street could accommodate the probable traffic volumes.

Site 2 (Holder) is located 550m from the Centre and is not within walking distance of it.

The site is separated from residential development. The site is adjacent to a major stormwater channel. It is not known if the 1:100 year flood event is contained within the channel or spreads to the immediate area. It is understood that flood information is to be placed on ACTmapi at the end of February. Notwithstanding the availability of this information, if Site 2 was the preferred location for the aquatic centre, it would be desirable to engage a hydraulic engineer to provide flooding information, especially in relation to the impact of flash flooding on the site.

Site 2 fronts Streeton Drive only and therefore access would have to be from this road.

However as noted above, there is currently no direct access off this road and therefore access to the site could be difficult.

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Sites 3 and 4 are about 1km from the Weston Creek Group Centre. Although defined as being ‘close’ to the group centre, they are not within walking distance and the community is unlikely to consider that they are near the centre. However both sites form part of district playing fields and as such would attract people from Weston Creek and potentially from a wider area.

Site 3 is a ‘battle-axe’ block with a very small frontage to Walpiri Place which provides access from Namatijira Place to the parking on the subject site. The site is adjacent to residential development, district playing fields, schools and churches and the local centre is nearby.

There is no separation between the residential areas and Site 3 and notwithstanding the location of the district playing fields, the level of activity that is likely at the site is not considered compatible with the activity occurring in the surrounding area, which is essentially a suburban area.

Access to Site 3 would have to be from Walpiri Place. Access would be difficult and it is unlikely that Walpiri Place could accommodate the traffic the facility would generate, although further investigations would be required.

Site 4 is close to residential development to the south and to the west and the district playing fields are located to the east and located in what is essentially a suburban area.

There is minimal separation between the residential areas and Site 4 and the level of activity likely at the proposed centre is not considered compatible with the surrounding residential developments.

Access to Site 4 would be from Streeton Drive and although further investigations would be required, the road could accommodate the traffic the proposed development would generate. South of its intersection with Hindmarsh Drive, development fronts at least one side of Streeton Drive.

Site 5 (Molonglo) is not located within the proposed Molonglo Group Centre, however it is located within the North Wright Community precinct and is adjacent to Stromlo Forest Park. The proposed facilities at North Wright include community facilities, government and non-government schools, playing fields and residential development (Figure 12). The site is separated from future residential areas to the east and north-west.

Stromlo Forest Park is to be developed as a major metropolitan sporting and recreational facility. Existing development includes cycle and running tracks and design of the district playing fields has commenced. The master plan, which is currently being reviewed, includes proposals for additional mixed use trails, event facilities, picnic areas, low cost visitor accommodation and camping facilities. The proposed aquatic centre facilities are compatible with these uses.

Access to the facility would be from the proposed Uriara link road.

Summary: Site 1 (Weston) is closest to a group centre but is not adequately separated from adjacent residential areas. Site 5 (Molonglo) is separated from future residential areas, will form part of a major recreation hub and the proposed development is compatible with surrounding existing and proposed development.

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Figure 12: North Wright Concept Plan

5.6

Access to Public Parking

As noted above, it is estimated that the proposed aquatic and recreation centre will generate a demand for either 460 or 550 spaces depending on the land use zoning.

Access to public parking can reduce the amount of parking that has to be provided on-site, which in turn reduces development costs and increases the efficiency of the use of land and of parking resources. The Parking and Vehicular Access General Code provides that in both the Leisure and Accommodation Zone and the Restricted Access Recreation Zone, visitor, long stay and short stay parking may be provided on-site or off-site provided that it is within 200 metres of the facility.

About 80 public parking spaces are located in Dillon Close adjacent to Site 1 and public parking is located in the group centre. It is not known whether some of the group centre parking could be used to meet parking generated by the aquatic facility and the parking is more than 200m from the proposed facility. There is also on-street parking in the surrounding area, however it is unlikely that the community would support its regular use for parking associated with the facility. Assuming that only the spaces in Dillon Close could be used to offset on-site parking requirements, about 350 spaces would be required on-site.

There is no public off-street parking in the vicinity of Site 2 and it is unlikely that parking would be permitted along Streeton Drive. Therefore all parking (550 spaces) would have to be provided on-site.

Site 3 currently includes some public parking, however this is included within the site area and would be redeveloped. There is on-street parking in the vicinity of the site however it is unlikely that the community would support this being part of the parking provision for the aquatic centre. Therefore the majority of parking (460 spaces) would be provided onsite.

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About 100 public parking spaces are located adjacent to Site 4 in Sherratt Place.

Assuming these could be included in the assessment of parking requirements, about 360 spaces would have to be provided on-site. It is unlikely that on-street parking could be identified to meet parking demand for the reasons above.

Site 5 can accommodate the parking generated by the proposed development (460 spaces).

In addition, the Stromlo Master Plan proposes that parking should be provided in the north of the Park. The parking is in the vicinity of, but, more than 200 metres from Site 5.

However it may be possible to relocate the parking areas closer to Site 5. Peak parking demand from Stromlo Park would be at weekends and for events. At other times it could be available for use by visitors to the aquatic and recreation facility. Provided that the Stromlo Forest Park parking is well connected with the pool, the amount of parking provided on-site for the aquatic facility could be reduced. In addition it is probable that some people may use the facilities at Stromlo Park and the aquatic facility during the same visit further reducing parking demand. The capacity to share the proposed parking should be further investigated as part of business planning and/or design studies.

Summary:

5.7

Provided that the parking at Stromlo Forest Park is well connected and accessible to the aquatic facility, Site 5 offers the greatest opportunity for shared parking and a reduction in the number of spaces required on-site.

Public Transport

In order to maximise accessibility for potential users, the site for the proposed aquatic and recreation facility should have good access to public transport not only serving Weston Creek but greater ACT. Two approaches were employed to assess access to public transport from the five locations:  a review of the distance between bus stops and the site, and  mapping of the bus routes throughout Weston Creek to the Group Centre and Woden Town Centre to determine relative accessibility.

The Community and Recreation Facilities Location Guidelines General Code states that indoor recreation facilities should not be more than 400m and preferably 200m from a bus stop. Sites 1 to 4 are within 400m of a bus stop with Sites 1 and 2 being within 200m of a bus stop.

Six (6) bus routes currently pass through Weston Creek, all of which pass through or near the group centre and are in reasonable walking distance of Site 1 (Figure 13). It is also proposed that the future rapid route will connect Molonglo to the Weston Group Centre via John Gorton Drive and Streeton Drive and to Tuggeranong via the Tuggeranong Parkway.

In the interim, bus routes will be developed between Molonglo and the group centre and other part of Weston Creek.

Site 1 would be accessible by bus from all suburbs in Weston Creek and would be on the proposed rapid route from Molonglo.

Two routes service Sites 2 and 4 and one route services Site 3. The routes servicing Sites 2, 3 and 4 only cover part of Weston Creek. People who did not live on bus routes servicing these sites would have to travel to the group centre and change buses. Further an interchange is not located in Weston Creek and the bus routes do not pass a common point, necessitating some walking between stops. Public transport accessibility to these sites is limited. Site 2 would be on the proposed rapid transport route from Molonglo,

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however Sites 3 and 4 would not be very accessible from Molonglo. Sites 2, 3 and 4 do not offer equitable public transport access.

Site 5 would be located on the rapid route between Weston Creek and Molonglo. Because of the metropolitan significance of Stomlo Forest Park, Site 5 is also likely to be located on interim bus routes connecting the two districts.

Summary: Majority of the sites are within walking distance of public transport. Of the Weston sites, Site 1 is the most accessible by public transport from Weston Creek and will be accessible from the southern suburbs of Molonlgo. Site 5 will be accessible to Weston Creek residents and also to all areas of Molonglo.

Figure 13: Bus Routes within the Weston Creek and Molonglo Catchment

5.8

Co-location opportunities

Co-location refers to the location of similar or complementary uses in proximity to each other. Co-location of activities encourages greater use of the various activities and the development of synergies that benefit organisations and users. Co-location offers a range of socio-economic and environmental benefits that cannot be achieved in segregated, stand alone facilities.

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Co-locating the aquatic and recreation centre with other activities will support the viability of the facility and potentially widen its patronage. Conversely visitors to the aquatic centre will support other complementary uses in proximity to the facility. The capacity to maximise the benefits of locating the facility with other complementary uses is an important consideration in identifying a preferred site.

Each of the sites offers some co-location opportunities, although it is not possible to quantify these.

Site 1 is located at the edge of the group centre and adjacent to tennis courts, the skate park and a community centre. A facility in this location could benefit from the large number of people visiting the shopping centre. Similarly people visiting the aquatic facility would support the centre.

Site 2 is located in the vicinity of recreational (archery), educational uses and community services at the former Holder High School. The benefits of co-location with these uses is considered limited. Both schools adjacent to the site have relatively small enrolments (total 440 in 2012) with enrolments slowly increasing since 2007. There are no obvious synergies between the community services or the recreational use and the aquatic centre.

An aquatic facility on Sites 3 and 4 would be adjacent to district playing fields. While siting the facility on these sites could support the development of synergies between different district-scale facilities, information is not available about whether co-location of the aquatic facility and playing fields would encourage greater uses of either. However the schools adjacent to Site 3 may benefit from co-location with the facility. In 2012 about 1350 students were enrolled at the nearby schools and since 2007 total enrolments have been relatively stable.

As noted previously, Site 5 is located adjacent to Stromlo Forest Park and the North Wright community precinct.

Stromlo Forest Park is to be a major metropolitan facility that will host cycling, running and other events at local, national and international standard and which is to be operated as a tourist destination. Co-location of the aquatic facility and the Park will enable greater use of both facilities and reinforce links between them. For example, it would be possible to hold junior triathlon events at the Park and the aquatic centre if the pool, which would be used for the swimming event, is sufficiently close to integrate it into the course. These events attract large numbers of competitors.

Similarly, the North Wright community precinct will include two schools and several community facilities. Information is not available regarding the projected capacity of the schools, however given trends in the provision of education facilities in Gungahlin, the schools are likely to be larger than those in Weston Creek. Further school enrolments are likely to increase for several years.

Over time the North Wright precinct and Stromlo Forest Park will be widely recognised as a community and recreational hub.

Summary: All sites offer some opportunities to achieve greater use of the facilities through co-location. Site 5 (Molonglo) offers the greatest potential to maximise the benefits of co-location and achieve greater use of the facilities and potentially increased participation in sport and recreation. Further colocating the aquatic facility with Stromlo Forest Park is also likely to provide an impetus for the early development of additional facilities planned for the park. The potential benefits of co-location are more tangible for Site 5 than for any of the other sites.

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5.9

Multi-purpose trips

Opportunities for multi-purpose trips to a single destination reduce the number and length of trips, encourage family and friends to share trips and facilitate more efficient travel. In general centres offer more opportunities for multi-purpose trips than do non-centre based locations.

Site 1 (Weston) is close and within walking distance of the group centre. The Weston Creek Group Centre includes a wide range of activities such as community facilities, medical and personal services, retailing, restaurants and cafes. Location of the aquatic centre on Site 1 would potentially increase multi-purpose trips.

Site 2 offers limited opportunities to for multi-purpose trips because it is not co-located with other major activity generators.

Site 3 (Waramanga) is near the Waramanga Local Centre. The Waramanga Local centre, offers convenience retailing and some services. While some visitors to the aquatic centre would combine visits to the facility with visits to the centre, the number of people who would do this would be limited because of the limited range of services at the centre.

Sites 3 (Waramanga) and 4 (Stirling) are adjacent to district playing fields. The development of an aquatic facility on either site would establish a recreation hub.

However because the district playing facilities are primarily used at weekends, the potential for multi-purpose trips may be limited.

The precinct in which Site 5 would be located provides opportunities for users of the aquatic and recreation facility to combine their visit with visits to the other related activities. The facilities at Stromlo Forest Park are likely to be used during the week as well as weekends even though peak use may be at weekends.

Summary: Site 5 has the most potential for related multi-purpose trips whereas Site 1 (Weston) offers the greatest opportunity to combine visits to the facility with ‘unrelated’ trips.

5.10 Visibility The success of the facility will partly depend on its visibility and the ease with which it can be identified. Ideally the facility should be on a main street and with a ground floor presence and good street address.

Site 1 (Weston) fronts Streeton Drive and Hilder Street: a semi-arterial and distributor respectively. Assuming that a proportion of the trees adjacent to Streeton Drive are removed, the site would be highly visible from the main north-south route through Weston Creek that is also the major connection with Molonglo.

Site 2 (Holder) also fronts Streeton Drive and therefore has the same level of visibility as Site 1. Its visibility is not dependent on removal of trees.

Site 3 (Waramanga) has a very limited frontage to Walpiri Place, which is an access point off Namatjira Drive. The site is not visible from the surrounding road network, which in turn forms part of the local road rather than the arterial network.

Site 4 (Stirling) is also located on Streeton Drive and would be visible to passing traffic.

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Site 5 would be visible from Uriarra Drive but not from John Gorton Drive, the major route through Molonglo. However the location of the site within a community and recreational hub would counterbalance the relative lack of visibility.

Summary:

Sites 1 and 2 are the most visible, however the location of Site 5 within a major activity generating precinct would offset the relative lack of visibility.

5.11 Connections The Weston Creek sites are connected with the pedestrian and cycle networks connecting different areas within Weston Creek and also areas beyond. Site 5 would be connected to the North Wright Community Precinct, Stromlo Forest Park, and Weston Creek in the longer term. Site 5 will also be integrated with the adjacent existing Stromlo Forest Park cycling trail. The proposed draft Stromlo Forest Park Master Plan (2012) outlines connections with other cycle path/trails within the area to create a loop which can be integrated with the Aquatic Sport and Recreation Facility.

Summary:

5.12

All sites offer reasonable connections, however Sites 1, 2 and 5 have greater existing or future connections to the wider pedestrian and cycle networks.

Other issue - Impact on open space

Sites 1, 3 and 4 are located in Urban Open Space which as noted previously would have to be rezoned. The following considers the impact of a reduction in open space.

Weston, Waramanga and Stirling have a relatively high amount of open space ranging from 7.8ha/1,000 population (Weston) to 13.22ha/1,000 population (Stirling). In comparison there is 6ha/1,000 population of open space in Weston Creek. Therefore the loss of open space at any site would not have an effect on the amount of open space.

Notwithstanding that the amount of open space is relatively high, it is unlikely that the community would support a reduction in the amount of open space even if it was to develop an aquatic facility. Thus it would be preferable to identify a site that did not result in a reduction in the amount of open space.

Site 1 is not currently irrigated. As noted elsewhere the draft Weston Creek Group Centre Master Plan notes that the site may be used as a playing field for Molonglo because of the lack of suitable land in that district. The preferred use is to be reviewed in 20-30 years if it is not required for that purpose.

Sites 3 and 4 are not irrigated and not currently used as playing fields but are used for other athletics purposes (throwing events). It would be necessary to identify alternative sites for these uses if either site was the preferred site.

Sites 2 and 5 are not zoned open space.

Summary: Sites 1, 3 and 4 are located within areas zoned Urban Open Space. While there is a relatively large amount of open space and the proposed use would not adversely affect the integrity of the open space network, the community is unlikely to support a rezoning. Sites 2 and 5 are preferred as they do not have any impact on the open space network or the level of provision.

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

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5.13 Summary of Site Assessment Table 7 summarises the site assessment and Table 6 indicates which sites meet each of the criteria.

Table 6:

Assessment criteria and preferred site Assessment Site 1 (Weston)

Territory Plan

Site 2 (Holder)

Site 3 (Waramanga)



Land Tenure

?



Site Area





Site 4 (Stirling)

Site 5 (Molonglo)

?

 





Demography

 

Catchment Population



Location





 

Parking



Access



Public Transport





 

Co-location opportunities



Multi-purpose trips



Visibility





Connections







Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

 





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Table 7: Criteria

Summary of Site Assessment Assessment Site 1 (B3 S22 Weston) Zoned PRZ1 – Urban Open Space.

Indoor recreation facility not permissible Territory Plan will have to be varied Unleased Territory Land

Site 2 (B19 S45 Holder) Indoor recreation facility permissible in PRZ2: Restricted Access Recreation Zone

2.5ha – 3.5ha approx Sufficient land available Immediate population ageing and declining slightly.

3ha approx Sufficient land available Immediate population ageing and declining slightly

Catchment Population

Serves Weston Creek/Molonglo Population 42,500 in 2021

Size and location

Located near group centre (250m) Within residential neighbourhood

Territory Plan

Land Tenure

Site Area Demography

Site 3 (B2 S42 Waramanga) Zoned PRZ1 – Urban Open Space.

Indoor recreation facility not permissible Territory Plan will have to be varied Unleased Territory Land Waramanga District Playing Fields.

Used by ACT Veteran Athletics 3ha approxSufficient land available Immediate population ageing and declining slightly

Site 4 (B93 S24 Stirling) Zoned PRZ1: Urban Open Space Zone Territory Plan has to be varied

Site 5 (Molonglo) Zoned commercial Future Urban Area Indoor recreation facility permissible

Unleased Territory Land Stirling District Playing Fields Site is converted to Agri-Dark Turf Nursery 3.5ha approx Sufficient land available Immediate population ageing and declining slightly

Unleased Territory land

Serves Weston Creek/Molonglo Population 42,500 in 2021

Serves Weston Creek Population 21850 in 2021

Located 550m from group c Centre and not associated with the centre.

Within mixed community use area

Located 1km from group centre and not associated with centre.

Part of district playing fields and near local shops and schools Neighbourhood location.

Serves Weston Creek and south Molonglo Population 32,100 in 2021 Located 1km from group centre Part of district playing fields Within residential neighbourhood Open space wedges create adequate noise

Unleased Territory Land

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

Site area approx. 5 ha Sufficient land available Immediate population growing with high proportion of young families expected.

Small initial population base Serves Weston Creek/Molonglo Population 42,500 in 2021 Located within the proposed North Wright Community Precinct which includes school, community facility, high density residential and Stromlo Forest Park.

Major community,

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buffer from residential areas

recreational and tourist destination Opportunity for shared parking with adjacent facilities.

Potential to reduce onsite requirements Vehicular access off Uriarra Road and John Gorton Drive connecting to Weston Creek.

Site is within walking distance of high density residential development

Parking

Some opportunities for shared parking. Require further investigation

All parking on-site No opportunities for shared parking

All parking on-site No opportunities for shared parking

All parking on-site No opportunities for shared parking

Access

Vehicular access from Hilder Street Within walking distance of some users from residential developments Linked Weston Creek pedestrian network

Poor vehicular access off Namatjira Drive Within walking distance of small number of users

Public Transport

Accessible by public transport all of Weston Creek by public transport.

On future rapid transport route to Molonglo

Vehicular access off Streeton Drive Site) Within walking distance of suburban residential development but separated by stormwater channel and sub-arterial (underpass access at north) On local bus route only.

Adjacent to future rapid transport route

Vehicular access of Streeton Drive Within walking distance of some users from residential developments Linked to the Weston Creek pedestrian network On local bus route only

Co-location opportunities

Located near group centre – significant co-location opportunity Co-located with local recreation facilities only.

Limited benefits Could be integrated with centre

Co-located with education and recreation activities.

Co-located with district playing fields and school.

Limited benefits from colocation Some benefits from colocation with school

Co-located with district playing fields Limited benefits from colocation

Multipurpose trips

Multi-purpose trips to facility and centre

Limited opportunities for multi-purpose trip.

Opportunity to combine visit with other recreational activities

Opportunity to combine visit with other recreational activities

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

On local bus route only

On future rapid transport route.

Will be on bus routes connecting Weston Creek and Molonglo Located within North Wright Community Precinct and adjacent to Stromlo Forest Park Potential for strong connections and significant benefits from co-location Opportunities for major events to share facilities and also increased use of facilities Opportunity to combine visit with other recreational activities

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(enclosed oval games, cricket, and tennis)

(enclosed oval games, cricket, tennis)

Visibility

High level of visibility and large numbers of passing vehicles

High level of visibility and large numbers of passing vehicles

Poor visibility and low number of vehicles/ people passing.

High level of visibility with lower number of passing vehicles than north of Hindmarsh Drive

Connections

Well connected to Weston Creek Group Centre pedestrian and cycling networks

Reasonably connected to Weston Creek Group Centre pedestrian and cycling networks directly on site.

Connected to Weston Creek Group Centre pedestrian and cycling networks directly on site

Connected to Weston Creek Group Centre pedestrian and cycling networks directly on site

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility

such as the Stromlo Forest Park as well as trips to school and community facilities.

Multi-purpose hub could be established Reasonable visibility but located within a well recognised precinct.

Adjacent to the park that will attract a large number of people.

Will be connected to the North Wright Community Precinct and Stromlo Forest Park.

The proposed cycle networks links these areas with greater Molonglo and towards Weston Creek.

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6

Preferred Location

In summary, all sites have various opportunities and constraints but Site 5 (Molonglo) offers the greatest opportunity for the development of an Aquatic Sport and Recreation facility.

Site 5 meets all the requirements as assessed in Table 7. The proposed use is permissible on the site and the land is not required for other uses. Importantly the site offers the greatest opportunity to exploit the benefits of co-location. Development of an aquatic and recreation facility on Site 5 will not only facilitate greater use of the facility and adjacent facilities but will also encourage greater community participation in sporting and recreation activities. This is one of the key objectives of the Aquatic Planning Framework and ACTIVE 2020.

The existing population base is larger in Weston Creek than in Molonglo and Weston Creek does not have a district swimming pool. These factors could suggest could suggest that the facility should be located in Weston Creek. However by 2021 the population of Molonglo is projected to be similar to that of Weston Creek. Whereas the Molonglo population will continue to increase, that of Weston Creek will remain stable or decline.

Given the population of the two areas and the number of people required to support different facilities, some facilities will be planned to be shared between Weston Creek and Molonglo. The proposed aquatic facility is one example where the facilities will be shared.

Unlike the alternative sites within Weston Creek, Site 5 (Molonglo) will add to the development of a community and recreational hub within the Weston Creek/Molonglo catchment and will contribute to the character and identify of Molonglo in a way that it would not in Weston Creek.

Development of Site 5 (Molonglo) provides the opportunity to integrate Stromlo Forest Park and North Wright Community Precinct, which will bring together the proposed facility, North Wright Community Precinct, Stromlo Forest Park and the Molonglo River as a metropolitan precinct.

It is recommended that Site 5 (Molonglo) be identified as the preferred location for the future Weston Creek/Molonglo Aquatic Sport and Recreation Facility. In identifying this site as the preferred site, it is assumed that the facility will be integrated with Stromlo Forest Park and North Wright Community Precinct to create a recreational and community destination for the catchment and greater metropolitan area. This will require the design of the aquatic facility to ensure that there are strong pedestrian connections, opportunities for shared parking are maximised and that the facility has a frontage and address to Stromlo Forest Park.

It will also be necessary to ensure that the master planning for Stromlo Forest Park also maximises the potential linkages and connections with the aquatic facility.

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7

Conclusion

In September 2012 the ACT Government announced $33 million in funding for an indoor swimming pool in Weston Creek/Molonglo. This report has assessed alternative sites in the district to identify a preferred location for the proposed pool facility This assessment has considered possible sites for the location of an Aquatic and Recreation Facility within the Weston Creek/Molonglo District. The sites selected are within the vicinity of the Weston Creek Group Centre (1km) and within Molonglo. The suburbs included in the vicinity are Weston and parts of Holder, Rivett, Stirling and Waramanga. The proposed Aquatic and Recreation Facility will be a district level facility to service the Weston Creek and future Molonglo catchment.

Five sites in three locations were identified for assessment within the Weston Creek/Molonglo catchment. The sites were: 

Block 3 Section 22 Weston (Site 1)



Block 19 Section 45 Holder (Site 2)



Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga (Site 3)



Block 9 Section 24 Stirling (Site 4)



Molonglo North Wright (Site 5)

Of the five sites that were assessed it was concluded that the sites 1 – 4 did not adequately meet the assessment criteria for various reasons. These included the need to vary the Territory Plan, the size of the site, the location of the site, co-location opportunities and impact on open space.

Site 5 (Molonglo – North Wright/Stromlo Forest Park) is the preferred location because it offers the greatest opportunity to maximise the benefits of co-locating the facility with other uses. The site will also contribute to the character and attractiveness of Molonglo.

Importantly however the facility will be accessible from Weston Creek.

The report recommends that Site 5 (Molonglo – North Wright/Stromlo Forest Park) be identified as the site for the proposed Aquatic Sport and Recreation Facility due to its central catchment location and potential development of a community and recreation metropolitan destination.

Purdon Associates January 2013

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