Help us design a new playspace at Burgess Reserve

We’re proposing to upgrade Burgess Reserve to improve the play and open space and want your input to help shape its future.

Burgess Reserve is a Local (major) playspace, intended to service the immediate neighbourhood within a 400m walking catchment as identified in the Frankston Play Strategy 2021. It supports short visits (up to an hour) and focuses on play for preschool and junior aged children.

Through this upgrade we aim to:

• Support and connect the local neighbourhood community
• Improve play value and variety of play experiences
• Provide accessible pathways to and within the playspace
• Include inclusive and accessible play options for everyone
• Enhance social connections by providing seating options like benches, picnic tables, and shaded areas
• Enhance the natural environment and natural shade with canopy tree planting and improved landscaping

Upgrades that will not be possible at Burgess Reserve:

As a local major level play space, the Burgess Reserve won’t include features like walking tracks, BBQ’s or public toilets – these are typically found in larger district level reserves.

How did we promote the engagement?

During the engagement period, we promoted this project to the local community. This included:

• Email notifications to 1044 Engage Frankston subscribers
• Email notifications to 670 Mini Frankston City members
• Signage installed at Burgess Reserve

Engagement Results

A total of 62 responses were provided. Of these, 80% visited Burgess Reserve regularly, with 20% visiting Burges Reserve everyday, and just under 50% once a weekHow often do you visit the Burgess Reserve?

In your family, what are the age/s of those who would use the playspace?

The majority of respondents had children in their family aged 0-11 who would use the playspace.

If you don’t currently visit Burgess Reserve, could you please tell us why?

Respondents noted that their child gets bored by the small amount of equipment, poor equipment and the park is average.

How do you normally travel to Burgess Reserve?

Of the 62 respondents, 58 (93%) walk to Burgess Reserve. 3% travel there by car, and 3% cycle/ride

What do you and/or your children LIKE about the current features such as, the rocker, sculpture tunnel and climb, sculpture play, see-saw, sculpture climbing, swings?

Of the 57 respondents to this question, 30 (53%) said they like the swings, 16 (28%) said they like the sculpture climb and 10 (18%) like the see-saw.

What do you and/or your children DISLIKE about the current features such as, the rocker, sculpture tunnel and climb, sculpture play, see-saw, sculpture climbing, swings?

Among the 59 respondents to this question, 23 (39%) disliked the outdated equipment, 10 (17%) felt the equipment was boring, and 8 (14%) were unhappy with the lack of equipment. Another 8 (14%) mentioned they didn’t like how spread out and disconnected the park felt.

Can you tell us if there is anything else you value or would like improved at Burgess Reserve?

This question prompted many ideas from the community. Of the 62 respondents that answered this question, 16 (26%) said they value or would like more slides, 8 (13%) mentioned a basketball court, and another 8 (13%) suggested trampolines. 6 respondents (10%) would like to see nature play, 6 (10%) value Indigenous planting, and another 6 (10%) want the reserve to be more suitable for all ages.

Does anyone in your family or community have a disability or additional support needs?

6 respondents shared ideas on how Burgess Reserve could be more inclusive. Key suggestions included:

• Improve accessibility: Ensure paths connect all play areas, reduce uneven and steep surfaces, and consider rails on hilly paths for older residents.
• Sensory-friendly play: Add sensory equipment and spaces to support children with autism and sensory needs.
• Support diverse needs: Include features for families with intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and other support requirements.
• Communication aids: Provide communication boards with pictures and symbols to assist children with communication difficulties.
• Inclusive design for all: Address slope and equipment choices to make the space welcoming for everyone, regardless of ability

What is your favourite reserve and/or playspace to visit (in Frankston City or elsewhere)?

Of the 56 (90.3%) of respondents to this question, 16 (28%) said Ballam Park is their favourite, followed by 7 (12.5%) listing Fernwood Reserve, and 5 (8.9%) listing Brompton Estate.

We will report back on how the engagement results have influenced the final concept design

Our next update will be provided between February - June 2026. Follow this page to receive updates.