Will the character of the Soppett Pavilion Grandstand be preserved?
Whilst the design concept integrates the grandstand with a new pavilion facility, Council believe that the existing form and character will be preserved. Additional works are also planned to restore the grand stand to its former glory.
Advice from Council’s heritage advisor has been sought to inform the preparation of the concept design. There is heritage protection within Council Town Planning Scheme that triggers a town planning permit application for proposed grandstand works. Council anticipate that a permit application will be submitted in early 2018.
Following a successful trial closure of Remo Street, Council has commenced actions to permanently discontinue Remo Street as a road. This action will allow the road reservation to be used for other purposes including accommodating the new sporting pavilion, possible additional car parking and potential public space.
What are Council’s future plans for the surrounding vacant properties?
Council intends to recommence the master planning process for Mentone Reserve in the 2018/19 financial year. The purpose of this process will be to provide a strategic intent for the overall design and activation of Mentone Reserve as well as considering the future use of Council owned vacant properties on Remo Street. The master planning process will involve further consultation with residents.
There is no additional car parking proposed as part of the design concept. Council understand that during game days there is limited car parking at Mentone Reserve and appreciate the patience of residents with the use of the local street network for car parking.
The new pavilion will provide sporting facilities, meeting spaces, office areas and social amenities for the St Bedes/Mentone Tigers Amateur Football Club, Mentone Cricket Club, Mentone Clovers Netball Club and Mentone Mustangs Basketball Club.
Will there be additional late night use of the pavilion?
Council’s leasing policy states that functions “must be finished by 11.30 pm and the pavilion vacated by midnight unless other restrictions apply (e.g. liquor licence or planning permit).”
