Construction update 2023

Construction is set to commence on Jean Street Reserve and Garfield Lane in March 2023 and we look forward to delivering a vibrant new reserve for the community, with improved facilities, access and safety features, for all ages, genders and abilities. Exciting new upgrades to the reserve will include:

• play equipment for all ages and abilities
• new plantings to enhance the current ‘natural’ and ‘greenery’ feeling of the reserve
• art murals to develop a sense of place and community
• break-out social seating options
• inclusion of two new bins for litter and recycling.

Important issues that were identified throughout consultation included the need to address poor lighting and visibility, anti-social behaviour, feelings of danger and isolation – in particular by women and gender-diverse people. The final design for the reserve and lane addresses these concerns by:

• relocating the main play space to be more visible to the station, shopping centre and carpark. This also provides easier access for those who wish to use the playspace before and/or after visiting Southland
• increasing the number of lights within the reserve/lane and strategically locating them to improve feelings of safety at night
• creating a 2.5m wide main concrete footpath through the site, helping to create clear sightlines and removing any potential hiding spaces
• enhancing wayfinding and navigation to ensure a more active space with greater passive surveillance and visibility of exit points
• playground fencing.

This project is being supported by the Victorian Government through the Live Local Program.

Construction timing and impacts

Works are set to commence in mid-March and be completed by the end of June 2023.

For the majority of the project, access will be available between Jean St Reserve, Southland train station and Westfield Southland, however pedestrian and cyclist detours will be in place at times during the two construction stages, for the safety of the community.

Please view the pedestrian and cyclist management plans in the Document Library on the right-hand side of this page.

We apologise for any inconvenience and will minimise disruption wherever possible, while maintaining a safe work site.