A pocket park in St Kilda was officially reopened with a community celebration over the weekend.
Chipton Park, formerly known as Crimea Park, was upgraded as part of Port Phillip's Park and Playground Renewal Program 2018/19 and 2019/20, with Council investing $530,000 in the redevelopment.
The small but well-equipped park is the only green space within the areas of Alma Street, Chapel Street, St Kilda Road and Wellington Street and is much-loved by residents.
Mayor Bernadene Voss said the upgrades will benefit the community for years to come.
"Through extensive community consultation, Council has delivered a modern, environmentally-friendly park which meets the needs of residents," Cr Voss said.
As part of the upgrades, Council redesigned the layout of the park to maximize the space, and planted 50 new trees and more than 300 new plants.
A 'raingarden', which filters storm water going to Port Phillip Bay through the use of plants, was also integrated into the design under Council's Water Sensitive Urban Design program.
"The raingarden is designed to reduce the amount of polluted stormwater which ends up in Port Phillip Bay. Small changes like this help us to love our Bay," Cr Voss said.
A new playground which features nature-play as well as traditional elements has also been installed, to the delight of Port Phillip's youngest residents. The playground has equipment for climbing, swinging, balancing and spinning, and encourages imaginative play.
Junction Area Action Group (JAAG) Committee Member Kaye O'Connor said local residents are delighted with the upgraded green space.
"Since its opening, JAAG has been thrilled to see so many of our community getting enjoyment from Chipton Park. The children are most excited by the new play equipment, while parents and other residents are using the park to relax and socialise, bringing a greater sense of community to our neighbourhood," Ms O'Connor said.
Chipton Park upgrades were completed in November 2019.
