_POP-UP PARKS

Pop-up-parks have become increasingly common in Melbourne over recent years.  Councils and various community groups have opened pop-up-parks in car parks, suburban streets and on undeveloped land.

A pop-up-park opened in Dandenong in 2011 and is still being used as a public space today.  The temporary park is located opposite the railway station on Foster Street and features sporting fields, barbeques, seating areas and a community garden.

Dandenong

Pop-up-parks have also featured in other Melbourne municipalities.  Earlier this year, Moreland trialled a pop-up-park in Brunswick in an attempt to reduce anti-social behaviour and improve safety in the streets.   This eight week trial has resulted in a decision by Council to close off a portion of Wilson Avenue in Brunswick to create a permanent area of public open space.  Construction of the park is expected to commence in January 2015.

Brunswick

A pop-up-patch on the rooftop of the multi-level car park in Federation Square provides veggie plots that are leased to the public.  In addition, all restaurants and cafes in Federation Square have their own plot.

Pop-up-parks often provide excellent opportunities for the innovative and creative use of ‘left-over’spaces.  Importantly, they can also be great platforms for community building and social interaction.  We hope more authorities, developers and community groups embrace the concept.

Enquiries to Tessa Bond on 03 8698 9300 or txb@colliepl.com.au

Yarraville