Help us design a new playspace at Myrtle Reserve

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

Myrtle 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 Myrtle Reserve:

As a local major level play space, the Myrtle Reserve won’t include features like walking tracks, BBQ’s or public toilet – 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 Myrtle Reserve

Engagement Results

A total of 43 responses were provided. Of these, over 75% visited Myrtle Reserve regularly, with 28% visiting Myrtle Reserve everyday, and just under 35% once a week.

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.

How do you normally travel to Myrtle Reserve?

Of the 43 respondents, 33 (76.7%) walk to Myrtle Reserve. 9.3% travel there by car, and 3% cycle/ride.

What do you and/or your children LIKE about the current features such as, the play tower with climbing wall and slide, basket swing, net climbing, play tower with cognitive play elements?

Of the 42 respondents to this question, 23 (54.7%) said they like the slide, 14 (33%) said they like the basket swing and 11 (26%) like the swings

What do you and/or your children DISLIKE about the current features such as, the play tower with climbing wall and slide, basket swing, net climbing, play tower with cognitive play elements?

Among the 36 respondents to this question, a few (11%) said they don’t like the rope-style monkey bars, and another 11% felt the equipment isn’t suitable for all ages. Others mentioned wanting more variety (8%), raised safety concerns about the net climbing (8%), suggested adding traditional swings (8%), and noted that the equipment feels too basic (8%).

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

This question sparked lots of great ideas! Of the 41 people who responded, 27% said they’d love more seating, 22% asked for additional swings, and 17% valued having a bike track. Another 17% suggested fencing with gates for safety, and 15% said a skate or bike area would be a great addition.

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

Five respondents shared ideas to make the park more inclusive and accessible. Here’s what they told us:

• Safety for children with ASD/ADHD: A fence along the Myrtle Street boundary would help keep children safe, as traffic can be busy and fast.
• Wheelchair accessibility: Improve access for wheelchairs and consider curb-flat entries for easier movement.
• Color contrast: Ensure equipment is easy to distinguish for people who are color blind.
• Inclusive play options: Provide equipment that supports delayed gross motor skills and sensory play for children with autism.
• Accessible parking: Add a couple of car parks on Cedar Street for families who need easier access to the playground.

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

Of the 39 (90%) of respondents to this question, 16 (41%) said Ballam Park is their favourite, followed by 4 (10%) listing Long Street.

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

Our next update will be provided between February 2025 - June 2026. Follow this page to receive updates.