Splash Park Feasibility Study - Draft March 2018 - Moorabool Shire Council
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Splash Park Feasibility Study
Draft March 2018
Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary 3
1.1 The Project 4 Acknowledgements
1.2 Executive Summary and Recommendations 5
@leisure would like to acknowledge the support and assistance provided
by:
2. Demand Assessment and Engagement 6
2.1 Community Survey Finding Highlights 7
1 • Staff from Moorabool Shire Council.
2.2 Community Survey Findings 8
2 2.3 Moorabool Demographic Characteristics 9
• Residents who completed surveys and provided feedback for the
project
3 2.4 Map – Bacchus Marsh Urban Growth Areas 11 • Stakeholders, operators, designers and suppliers who were
4 interviewed for this project.
1! 3. Supply Analysis 12
3.1 Types of Splash Parks 13
3.2 Splash Park Features 14
3.3 Splash Park Issues 15
3.4 Best Practice and Learnings 17
3.5 Catchment Analysis and Benchmarking 18
3.6 Colocation Opportunities and Timing 19
3.7 Splash Park Site Selection 23
3.8 Map - Potential Splash Park Locations 24
3.9 Splash Park Distribution and Preferred Locations 25 © All rights reserved. !
No part of this publication may be
3.10 Issues Concerning the Preferred Sites 26 reproduced, stored in a retrieval system
3.11 Costs and Components 27 or transmitted in any form, by any
means, without the prior written
3.12 Conclusion 28 permission of Moorabool Shire Council
and @leisure!
4. Appendices 29
Appendix 1: Types of Splash Parks 30
Appendix 2: Splash Park Selection Criteria Table 32
Appendix 3: Advantages / Disadvantages of Each 33
Potential Splash Park Location
Appendix 4: Case Studies 38
Eureka Pool, Ballarat
Appendix 5: Splash Park Examples 39
Long Gully Splash Park, Bendigo 39
Seville Water Play Park, Seville 40
Community Bank Adventure Park, Wallan 41 GZVg*()Bi6aZmVcYZgGdVY6hXdiKVaZK>8(%('6jhigVa^V
+&(.('+&++'^c[d ViaZ^hjgZ#Xdb#Vjlll#ViaZ^hjgZ#Xdb#Vj
Midlands Reserve, Ballarat 42
Appendix 6: Community Survey Results 43
Appendix 7: Splash Parks Concepts 48
1. Executive Summary
1.1 The Project
1.2 Executive Summary and Recommendations
3
1.1 The Project : Splash Parks
About Splash Parks!
Introduction!
! !
The Moorabool Council Plan 2017-2021 identifies an action Splash parks are;!
item within the strategic objective of ‘Improving Social • A form of aquatic centre. They require treated and heated
Outcomes’ under ‘Health & Wellbeing’ to include a feasibility water, that has to be controlled and monitored for health
study on the construction and location of splash parks in reasons!
2017-18. ! • Not about immersion in water! (like swimming), they are about
To support the provision of aquatic facilities within the Shire, cooling off and active play !
the splash parks feasibility study provides recommendations • Either a) zero depth – just sprays etc. such as Long Gully,
regarding the viability, provision, location(s) and potential Bendigo or b) include shallow pools – e.g. Mildura, Broadwater
development of splash parks. This provides Council with a Parklands, The Entrance. (If they are not zero depth splash
comprehensive strategic approach for decision making on parks should have a lifeguard.)!
future facility provision to ensure that facilities remain viable • Not about creative and cognitive, constructive play typical of
and meet community needs into the future. the sand/ water play found in district or regional playgrounds.
E.g. Royal Park Melbourne, Ian Potter Garden Royal Botanic
This report:
Gardens, although they may have some levels of interaction or
• Assesses capital, operational, and maintenance costs control by users i.e. cannons etc. !
• Assesses site options • Thought of by the public as a destination - that involves a
• Considers management requirements length of stay longer than play equipment in the local park.
Hence splash parks typically include support facilities such as
• Benchmarks other facilities
toilets/change, picnic / BBQ and others – associated with either
• Provides an indicative concept a District level or Regional level facility!
• Provides an opinion of probable capital cost • A great way to encourage social interaction and encourage
parents to play with the children. They target primary school
aged children and their families!
• Can be easily accessible to people using mobility devices!
• Relatively expensive to manage!
!
4
1.2 Executive Summary and Recommendations
• Colocation with a splash park could enable the
Recommendations" Summary cost-effective extension of the outdoor pool season
Moorabool is a fast growing municipality with families and to accommodate the increased visitation, if there is
1. Plan to provide zero depth splash parks in young children a significant part of that growth. warm weather before the pool is open
the long term across the municipality, that
A splash park can provide a fun, affordable, attractive and In Bacchus Marsh additionally the pool site:
cater to a district catchment
safe additional aquatic play opportunity for young families.
• Has good access, is served by a public bus and is a
2. Manage and operate splash parks as part of
A splash park however should not be seen as a 10 min walk from the train station
seasonal pool operations
replacement for a future aquatic centre. It cannot provide
• Is a central location in Moorabool’s largest town,
3. Construct a splash park inside the existing the scale of benefits, serve the range of users or provide
and is in close proximity to future growth areas –
fence line of the outdoor pool in Grant St. the activities that a swimming pool can, but it will add
West Maddingley and Stonehill Estate
Bacchus Marsh, replacing the existing value to an existing outdoor pool or play facility, especially
toddlers pool for families and young children. • Is a highly visible site and is in close proximity to
other sport and recreation opportunities
4. Refer an amount of up to $500,000 to A number of options were considered for the nature and
Council’s budget and Strategic Financial Plan location of splash parks in Moorabool. Outdoor pool sites • Is a beautiful setting
for the construction of a Bacchus Marsh in Bacchus Marsh and Ballan are the preferred locations • Has an aged toddler pool which could be replaced
splash park for splash parks, to other sites considered, for a number with new and exciting splash park components
5. Extend the outdoor pool operating season of reasons including: A budget allocation of $500,000 for construction would
from November to later in March to • Lower build cost due to colocation, e.g. Council own be required for one such park, assuming there are no
accommodate splash park patrons the land, and change rooms/toilets, utility services and geotechnical or external services that would need to be
6. Construct a splash park inside the existing chemical storage, kiosk, etc., are already provided on addressed at the site. This should be progressed as
fence line of the outdoor pool in in Ballan, site soon as possible.
replacing the existing toddlers pool • Lower operating costs at a pool, where there is access A splash park of approximately 200 square metres,
7. Refer an amount of up to $450,000 to to trained staff for management, maintenance and including up to 30 water features has potential to draw
Council’s budget and Strategic Financial Plan water quality monitoring, and security is provided up to 5,000 additional visitations to the Bacchus Marsh
for the construction of a splash park in Ballan • Opportunity to extend the offer at the outdoor pools Outdoor Pool (BMOP). These visits would
and enhance their use approximately generate an additional $12,900 income
8. Consider providing a third splash park if
per season if a similar pricing structure was in place as
Merrimu develops as a residential area • Resident familiarity with the sites
2017 and the venue was promoted broadly.
• If affordable pricing is introduced, income generated by
A smaller scale splash park is proposed for the Ballan
additional visits could offset additional staff costs
5!
Pool in 2023, with a third splash park potentially
included in a future Merrimu residential development.
d
5
2. Demand Assessment and
Engagement
2.1 Community Survey Finding Highlights
2.2 Community Survey Findings
2.3 Moorabool Demographic Characteristics
2.4 Map – Bacchus Marsh Urban Growth Areas
Community and stakeholder engagement conducted for this project
included:
• Preparation of a press release to advertise the project and encourage
residents to fill in a survey
• Provision of an online survey on Council’s ‘Have Your Say’ page that
netted 425 responses
• Interviews with a wide range of key informants from other Council areas,
industry, and suppliers
6
2.1 Splash park – Community Survey Findings Highlights
73
425 %
Surveys completed on line
Have used a splash park in
the last 12 months
• And 86% have visited an
outdoor splash park
285
Would use a pool more often if a
splash park was built at an
49
existing pool site
34 27%
%
% Spend 2 or more
hours at a splash
or 146 park Would pay $0
Requested
aquatic facilities 21% would pay $5 or more
7
2.2 Community Survey Findings
An online survey was made available via the Moorabool Council website ‘Have Your Say’.
There were 425 responses to the survey. Below is a summary of key responses from the surveys.
‘What did you like about the splash Components sought after/liked? ‘Favourite splash parks’
park you visited?’ • Large family change rooms • Werribee
• Baby change facilities • Ballarat
• Fun – family activity
• Woodlea (Rockbank Nth)
• No cost • Shade
• Adventure Park (Geelong)
• Clean • Dry play equipment
• Riverwalk (Werribee)
• Seating available • Seating
• Rockbank
• Suited for kids all ages • Picnic Areas
• Saltwater Coast - Point Cook
• Safe – fenced, secure • BBQs
• Lara
• Variety of water features • Trees
• Shade • Sunbaking chairs
‘Preferred Location for a splash park in
• Accessible Facilities
Moorabool ?
‘‘What didn't you like about the • Water slides
• Bacchus Marsh/ Maddingley 31%
splash park you visited?’ • Hand water pump
• Maddingley Park 16%
• Fountains
• Shade: • Peppertree Park (Bacchus Marsh Outdoor Pool) 12%
o too far away/not enough shade • Dog friendly
• Ballan 6%
• Skate park • Darley 9%
o wasn’t enough shade over the play
equipment/water section • Adventure park / Playground • Civic Centre 2%
o not enough shade/seating • Parking • Other 22%
• Change rooms and toilets too far • Food /beverage
• Not enough to keep bigger kids occupied • Drinking fountain ‘Other thoughts or ideas?’
• Pirate bucket splash • Some 146 people or 34% of people completing
surveys made reference to the need for indoor aquatic
facilities
8
2.3 Moorabool Demographic Characteristics
Demographic influences on demand A significant increase in population will increase Population growth of the 0 -14 year age group will be
demand for aquatic and recreation activities amongst the largest by 2026 with some 7% growth
The key demographic influences on leisure and
particularly in Bacchus Marsh and surrounds (which projected (to 8,000 children in the Moorabool Shire).
participation in sport and physical activity are age,
includes Bacchus Marsh, Darley, Maddingley, and The 35 – 49 year age group is also projected to grow
gender, income, education, cultural background,
Hopetoun Park). at between 6.8% and 7.2% for the same period.
and location. People that are less likely to
participate in swimming or physical activity are Moorabool’s population in 2017 was 33,171. This is The implication of this increase in families with
those: projected to increase to 53,270 by 2041. dependant children is that splash parks will be highly
Over 55% of this population growth will be sought after for recreation in hot weather, and
• Over 65 years of age
concentrated within Bacchus Marsh and surrounds. particularly when the outdoor pools may be closed.
• Born overseas in non-English speaking
countries
• With low incomes and levels of education and/
or those who are unemployed, or have a
disability 1
The demographic profile of Moorabool points to:
• Strong and increasing participation in sporting
activities due to the population increase and
age profile
• Limited cultural barriers due to the relatively low
number of people born overseas in non-English
speaking countries
• Relatively low levels of social disadvantage
Population
Total population, projected growth and likely
density have a considerable bearing on the
demand for use and viability of aquatic recreation
activities.
1. https://www.clearinghouseforsport.gov.au/knowledge_base/sport_participation/
community_participation/sport_participation_in_australia!
9
2.3 Moorabool Demographic Characteristics (continued)
Future Residential Growth Characteristics
Population growth in Moorabool is expected to largely The two greenfield developments (Underbank and
occur in the towns of Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, and Gordon, Stonehill) will see the most growth in Bacchus
with Bacchus Marsh having the largest growth. Marsh in the short-medium term.
The Bacchus Marsh Urban Growth Framework identifies In the medium to long term developments will
the following growth areas: occur in Merrimu (1230 ha, up to 15,000 people
• Merrimu Residential Growth Precinct and 30-40 yrs), Parwan Station (500ha, 7000
people and 15+ years) and Hopetoun Park (160ha,
• Parwan Employment Growth Precinct
and 3,000, 5 yrs). However, the timing of these
• Parwan Station Residential & Commercial Precinct developments is dependent on the provision of the
• Hopetoun Park North Residential Expansion Area Eastern Link Road.
The largest growth is expected in the Bacchus Marsh Following is a map of the Bacchus Marsh Urban
suburb of Maddingley with growth a forecast of 174% from Growth Areas Framework Plan. Note areas 1, 2
2015 to 2041. 2 and 3 are where significant future residential
The Stonehill Estate in Griffith St, West Maddingley will growth will occur. 4
contribute 1500 dwellings once complete. 3
The Underbank development in Mortons Road, Pentland
Hills includes the development of 153 hectares.
2. Moorabool Shire Council Annual Report 2016/17! 4. . Bacchus Marsh Urban Growth Framework !
3. . Housing Bacchus Marsh to 2041. Mesh Pty Ltd July 2016 !
102.4 Bacchus Marsh Urban Growth Areas Framework Plan (Draft) 6
!
6. VPA, Moorabool Shire Newsletter. February 2017!
113. Supply Analysis
3.1 Splash Park Features
3.2 Splash Park Issues
3.3 Best Practice and Learnings
3.4 Types of Splash Parks
3.5 Catchment Analysis and Benchmarking
3.6 Colocation Opportunities
3.7 Splash Park Site Selection
3.8 Map - Potential Splash Park Locations
3.9 Splash Park Distribution and Preferred Locations
3.10 Issues and Solutions
3.11 Costs and Components
3.12 Conclusion
123.1 Splash Park Features
The following new key features have been installed in recently constructed splash parks or are available for installation. These were
identified from interviews with designers, manufacturers, operators and a literature research.
Sounds
Some components can play a sound when the water nozzle is covered
Translucent Dumping Buckets
Children can see the water building up in the bucket creating anticipation and "
value added play
360 Degree Rotating Features
Allows users to spin and spray anywhere.
Lighting Displays
Lighting displays can make splash pad look attractive at all times of day and
when not in use
Child Activated Sprays
Water ejects from a nearby ground spray when feature is pressed
133.2 Splash Park Issues
The key issues assoicated with splash parks identified from interviews and investigations with designers and operators, are as follows.
‘Season’ length and hours of use Zero Depth
Year Round – if colocated with another indoor aquatic facility. Some water play areas have pools and running water in
Staff costs may be less and potentially absorbed. channels. Supervision is required if the facility is not zero
depth.
Short Season – if colocated with a seasonal pool.
Staff costs may be partly absorbed but daily use may be Solution – Ensure design specifications require zero depth.
restricted if the seasonal pool has temperature dependant
Or colocate within a supervised indoor or seasonal pool
opening hours and only operates for a short duration each day.
enclosure.
Flexible – if located in a park, typically features are activated by
users and operate on a timer, for example: November to April Not just a splash pad
from 9am to 9pm.
Splash parks require – parking, shade, seating, toilets /
Solution – Consider extending the outdoor pool season by change facilities etc. which have significant capital costs
4-6 weeks and review the outdoor pool temperature policy to
accommodate the needs of splash park user.
Solution – Cost all required support facilities within project
or colocate splash parks to where these facilities exist.
Water Contamination
High usage and low water volume along with open environment
can lead to contamination, especially from the following sources: Burns
• Toddlers in nappies Positioning a splash pad adjacent to another dry unshaded
• Adults fully clothed surface such as synthetic softfall in an adjacent playground, is
• Pets a danger to babies and young children inadvertently crawling
• Sunscreen from the wet to a hot surface and burning bare skin.
• Loose materials blowing in
Potential contamination requires higher turnover rates and higher
chlorination levels than a typical swimming pool.
Solution – Construct adjoining surfaces with material that
does not retain heat, warn users and provide adequate
permanent shade .
Solution – Ensure design specifications meet best practice
standards.
14Splash Park Issues (continued)
Maintenance Costs
Wind
Splash parks are not low maintenance. As a minimum they
require: Water testing – 4 hourly, filtration cleaning, Wind can blow water off the apron reducing flow back to
filtration and dosing. Wind can also introduce debris that
backwashing, daily inspections, vandalism repairs and
blocks filtration.
equipment servicing.
Porous impact absorbing surfaces are difficult to disinfect and
should not be used in splash parks. Solution – Turn off the splash park in the wind. This is
common – but a common source of frustration by users who
may have travelled some distance to visit. Warn the public
Solution – Minimise the maintenance costs by co- locating that on windy days it will be closed. Maintain good
with a swimming pool, and extending an existing management communication with users.
arrangement.
Brushed concrete is the most practical surface for splash parks
as it is easy to maintain. High Demand
People may travel long distances to use splash parks. Due to
flat open areas they may also be accessible for people using
Wear and Tear mobility devices. Sometimes groups come in a small minibus.
Water play features are commonly out of order due to high
usage, wear and tear and no supervision. Solution – Allow for good directional signage and car/van
and accessible parking.
Solution – Colocate splash parks with swimming pools for
improved supervision and cost effective monitoring.
Solar Heated Water
Some Victorian splash parks have water that is solar heated,
introducing added comfort but also cost.
Solution – Adjacent permanent shelters can include solar
panels to minimise energy cost. Ensure facilities need to be
activated by users and turn off at a sensible time at night, so
they don’t run when no one is present.
153.3 Best Practice and Learnings
The following best practice and opportunities were noted through telephone interviews with Local Government staff, splash park designers and service technicians
Off-site monitoring
Install a system that enables water quality monitoring remotely.
Plant Design
This is particularly effective for sites without direct supervision Treat the static water before it returns to the apron, when the
as an operator can be advised when chemical levels are out system is first turned on each day.
side recommended parameters. The recirculation system should allow water to be returned to
Operating parameters can be monitored remotely via Wi-Fi. a balance tank, treated and returned to the park features.
Water chemistry can be adjusted or the facility shut down/
turned on for example.
Signage – Rules and Regulations Graded Challenges and Age
Signage is required to show people how to use the park. Appropriate Zones
Regulations to be met include:
• Victorian Government, Health (Infectious Diseases) Ideally, a splash park will be zoned with age appropriate
Regulations, Dangerous Goods (Storage & Handling) equipment and features that suit toddlers and older children.
• Occupational Health and Safety (Manual Handling), Provide graded challenges to encourage children to learn.
Dangerous Goods Act Consider water velocity and intense spraying and dumping
• For risk management, signs should include conditions of features that are. only accessible to older kids.
use, warnings and information.
User Activation and Sequencing Support Facilities and Design
Allow for adequate car parking, picnic facilities, seating and
Some components can be turned on and off by a child. Other
especially shade close by.
features can be set to operate in a automatic changing
Provide adequate space between and around items – as much
sequence.
of the activity at a splash park is games that go on around the
equipment.
Pricing and Planning Ensure there is an accessible path of travel from the car park to
the pad and around and through the equipment for people
Plan the pricing and design of splash parks as a package in whose chairs or mobile frames can get wet.
conjunction with other aquatic services. Ensure adequate space for the extended family in the picnic
If a free splash park is provided in a different location to those with a and seating areas.
paid pool environment, then the free facility (if well designed) will be
better utilised.
Allow for future expansion of additional components and expanded
splash parks and replacement of facilities every ten years.
163.4 Types of Splash Parks
The type of park and catchment hierarchies The type of park most feasible in Moorabool
There are a number of different styles of water play areas / splash parks,
Council’s Community Infrastructure Framework Provision Standards do
provided in different contexts, for different reasons and to serve different
not currently specify a standard for splash parks.
catchments. Different types of splash parks have different catchment
hierarchies. Some typical categories of splash parks are: A proposed catchment hierarchy for splash parks is shown in the
following table.
1. Local, outdoor – zero depth single elements within a destination play
space The most feasible type of splash park in Moorabool is an outdoor district
splash park, that is zero depth. This type of splash park will be most cost
2. District, outdoor dedicated splash parks (may be in conjunction with
effective for Council to operate, it isn’t likely to compete with other
other local play elements or outdoor seasonal pool )
regional/destination or private facilities available in adjoining municipalities
3. District, outdoor splash parks with pools in regional parkland or river and it will complement and add value to Council’s existing aquatic
location (non zero depth) facilities.
3. Regional, outdoor dedicated splash park in conjunction with a In addition to the travel accessibility standard suggested below, a splash
municipal/regional aquatic centre park is not likely to be affordable in areas with populations less than 2000
4. Regional, indoor splash park/water playground with regional aquatic people.
centre, etc. Splash Park Catchment Hierarchy Definitions!
5. Regional, large scale commercial “Adventure Parks” such as those in
Catchment Definition
Geelong and Whittlesea Hierarchy
Examples of each type are shown in Appendix 1. Local • Predominantly provided to serve the immediate suburb
• Within approximately 10 mins walk.
The different catchment hierarchies for splash parks are defined in Appendix
1 and summarised in the table on the right. District • Designed to serve a group of suburbs, and hence
• Most residents might expect to drive to the facility
• Within approximately 10 mins drive time.
Regional • Facilities that serve regional catchments (the whole of, or
broader than a municipality.
173.5 Catchment Analysis and Benchmarking
Other splash parks in the region Benchmarking
There are at least 12 splash parks within an hours Twenty four splash parks were benchmarked in Victoria,
drive of Bacchus Marsh. with the majority owned by local government. The following
Land developers have installed four of the parks, information can be noted from those sites reviewed;
which are of a larger scale than those installed by • Capital costs ranged from $125,000 to several million
local Councils.
dollars
Three of the splash parks are colocated with
• People paid to enter 8 of the parks as they were located
swimming pools (Lara, Eureka and Sunshine) and
with other aquatic facilities
one is at a private aquatic park (Adventure Park –
Wallington) • At least 13 of the 24 outdoor splash parks were operated
seasonally
Following are the sites within 1 hours drive:
• The cost of toilets, change facilities, fencing, and car
• Long Gully, Bendigo
parking could add several million dollars to the cost of
• Riverwalk Estate, Werribee
providing a splash park
• Crocodile Park Saltwater Coast, Point Cook
Points of Difference
• Eureka Outdoor Pool, Ballarat
Competing locations within a 1 hour drive of Bacchus Marsh
• Victory Park, Sebastopol
offer the following points of difference:
• Midlands Park, North Ballarat
• Large scale designer park with significant additional dry
• Lara Outdoor Pool, Lara
play facilities and landscaped surrounds designed to
• Adventure Park, Wallington attract new residents (Point Cook, Rockbank, Werribee)
• Sunshine Leisure Centre, Sunshine • Located with an existing indoor and outdoor pool
• Woodlea Adventure Park, Rockbank facilities and fully supervised. Designed to attract more
• Frontier Park, Rockbank participants to existing aquatic facilities (Eureka –
Ballarat, Lara, Sunshine)
• Creswick Splash Park, Creswick
• Free family activity in park setting with natural and man-
made shade, with BBQ and picnic facilities
18Benchmarking - Components
The following table shows the various components provided and splash parks in neighbouring municipalities. !
Picnic Shaded Change Bike Rubbish
Splash Park Name Toilets BBQs Wi Fi Kiosk
Area Seating rooms Racks Bins
Long Gully, Bendigo ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Riverwalk Estate, Werribee ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Crocodile Park, Point Cook ✓ ✓ ✓
Eureka Outdoor Pool ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Victory Park, Sebastopol ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Midlands Park, North Ballarat ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Lara Outdoor Pool ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Adventure Park, Wallington ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Sunshine Leisure Centre ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Creswick Splash Park ✓ ✓ ✓
Woodlea Estate Adventure ✓
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Park, Rockbank
19Benchmarking - Operations
The following table show operational information in relation to splash parks in neighbouring municipalities.!
Splash Park Name Management Entry Fees Season Length Operating Hours
Long Gully, Bendigo Belgravia Leisure Free Oct - March Oct - Nov 10 am – 6 pm;
Dec- Mar 9 am - 8 pm
Riverwalk Estate, Werribee Wyndham Council; Free Oct – March. 9 am – 8 pm
Melbourne Water; Apr - Sept 10 am – 5 pm
Places Victoria
Crocodile Park, Point Cook Free Year round Open 24 hours
Eureka Outdoor Pool City of Ballarat Adult $5, Child/Concession Dec - April 6.30 am - 7.30 pm weekdays;
$4.20, Family $15, Under 4 Free closes 5.30 pm weekends
Victory Park, Sebastopol City of Ballarat Free Nov - 30 April 9 am - 9 pm
Midlands Park, North Ballarat City of Ballarat Free Nov - 30 April 9 am - 9 pm
Lara Outdoor Pool City of Geelong Adult $8.00, Adult with child Nov - March 6 am – 6 pm
under 5 $6, Adult with child 5-18
years $12, Concession $6
Adventure Park, Wallington Private Adult $43, Child (based on Oct - April Oct - Dec 10 am - 5 pm;
height) $33.50 Dec - Apr 10 am – 6 pm
Seniors $26, Child under
90 cms Free
Sunshine Leisure Centre City of Brimbank Pool entry - casual $10.40 Splash Park Mon-Fri 6 am – 7 pm;
Concession $8.50 1 Nov- 31 March Sat/Sun 8 am - 4.30 pm
Creswick Splash Park Shire of Hepburn Free 2 Dec- 31 March 9 am - 9 pm
Woodlea Estate Adventure Park Developer Free Year round Open 24 hours
203.6 Colocation opportunities and timing of development
This study recommends the provision of a splash park at the outdoor pool sites in Ballan and in Bacchus Marsh, and potentially in another growth area
location such as Merrimu. Council does not have considerable capital to invest in the provision and operation of facilities. Hence it will be important for
Council to consider colocating facilities to reduce the build cost, enhance participation and reduce ongoing costs of operation.
The planning of an aquatic facility, splash park and an indoor sports facility at the same time provides an opportunity to integrate these components in
the long term. Colocation opportunities should be considered in the site selection process.
The pool shells at the outdoor pools are aging. If and when these require replacement, it will be more cost effective to colocate any replacement outdoor
aquatic facility with any future indoor swimming pool.
In the long term it is not considered cost effective to ultimately have aquatic facilities at different sites in the same town.
A splash park may also require asset renewal or replacement at 10 plus years. Therefore, after 10 or more years and when the outdoor pool tank in Grant
Street Bacchus Marsh needs to be replaced, the option to include any outdoor pool and splash park at a site with an indoor aquatic facility should be
considered.
The Indoor Recreation Facility Feasibility Study project running concurrently has identified that it will be more cost effective to provide any future indoor
aquatic facility in the long term with an indoor court sports facility.
The Taverner Street site in Maddingley has been assessed as the most feasible for a multiple component indoor and aquatic facility that can be
constructed in stages, and which could include between 2- 6 indoor sports courts followed by aquatic facilities. This site may also include any future
outdoor aquatic facilities including a splash park.
.
The following table shows current and future population projections for 2028 and 2038, potential timing of facility development and the location of
existing and future sites. Taverner Street, Maddingley is the preferred site for future indoor courts and is of sufficient size to accommodate an expansion
for future sport and leisure components.
21Colocation opportunities and timing of development !
Population 34,030 41,911 50,600
Location Timeline Now - 2018 2019 - 2028 2029 - 2038
OR OR
Grant Street Renew/
replace !
Bacchus Marsh
Add splash park to Consider integrating
outdoor aquatics! aquatics to one site in
long term !
OR
OR
First stage Second stage
Taverner Street Potential to
2 courts ! add two courts !
relocate
Bacchus Marsh outdoor
aquatics off
Grant Street at
end of life !
Full 4 courts plus
aquatics and gym !
Ballan Pool Add splash park
to outdoor
aquatics!
Outdoor Pool! Indoor Pool! Splash Park! Indoor Courts! Gym/Fitness!3.7 Splash Park Site Selection
Suggested Locations
The eight criteria applied to the four options are 4. Easy access to the site via main road, walking trails
Four potential locations were chosen and
described in more detail below. and public transport. Access other than by car is an
assessed against key site selection criteria
important criteria. The Ballan site (has potential for
required for a successful splash park. The sites 1. Site size can accommodate required components
good access) and to a lesser extent Federation Park,
were: (parking, shade, pad size, etc.).
Darley have poorer access.
• Bacchus Marsh Outdoor Pool Successful splash parks generally have a number of
5. Site has limited constraints that could impede the
• Ballan Outdoor Pool complementary components that add to the visitor
development or increase costs (such as planning
experience and cater for a broader range of
• Maddingley Park - Maddingley controls, topography, land, contamination, poor
interests. Shade, car parking, BBQ, toilets/change
• Federation Avenue Park, Darley drainage, geotechnical, heritage or utility
rooms, drinking fountains and other social / family
These are shown on the map on the following infrastructure/easements).
recreational components such as basketball rings,
page. skate parks are required to be successful. The existing BMOP pool site in Grant St has some
planning overlays that will need to be considered
2. Site has high street visibility
Site Selection Criteria before further development, but are not considered
The ability to attract passing traffic and be easily
major constraints.
The criteria used to assess each site were as identifiable, can lead to greater attendances.
follows: 6. Site has good synergy and ability to be colocated with
3. Likely to have low operating costs (i.e. benefit from
other existing facilities and services.
1. Site large enough to accommodate required staffing expertise, chemical storage, on site, etc.).
components A splash park can extend the opportunities present at
Colocating with existing swimming pools has an existing facility, add value to the splash park and
2. Site has high street visibility
advantages that reduce the operating costs of reduce build costs which could be significant.
3. Ability to keep operating costs low splash parks. Trained pool staff on site can monitor
7. Site is centrally located to serve the largest possible
4. Easy access to site via main road, walking water chemical levels, adjust dosing, complete 4
trails and public transport catchment population (within 10 minute drive of
hourly water testing, backwash water filtration and
5. Site has no known constraints to develop in 2,000-6,000 people).
monitor safe usage reducing vandalism and safety
short term issues. A site located within a 10 minute drive as per the
6. Site has good synergy with and ability to be Moorabool Shire Planning Community Infrastructure
Colocation with swimming pools will also
colocated with existing services Standards – Outdoor Aquatic venues.
significantly reduce the build cost of support
7. Site is centrally located 8. Is likely to meet with community approval.
facilities such as toilet/change rooms, parking, kiosk
8. Likely to meet community approval and plant room, and amenity's already on site, The views of those who completed 425 surveys are
along with power and water services. taken into account when choosing the preferred
location.
233.8 Map - Potential Splash Park Locations
.
243.9 Splash Park Distribution and Preferred Locations
Affordability and Distribution Methods ! The Preferred Sites
The steps to determine the preferred site are The ranking of the four sites is as follows:
As outlined previously in the report, it is proposed that
outlined below.!
up to three splash parks across the Shire will be 1. Bacchus Marsh Outdoor Pool Weighted Score 4.11
!
provided. It is proposed that Council plan for two splash 2. Ballan Outdoor Pool Weighted Score 4.00
Step 1. A list of evaluation criteria was identified to
parks in the short term and consider a third splash park
ensure the site met the criteria of locating a fit-for- 3. Federation Park, Darley Weighted Score 3.61
in the long term, potentially provided by developer
purpose splash park facility. ! 4. Maddingley Park Weighted Score 3.25
contributions. A suitable location for a third splash park
Step 2. A short list of sites was determined with
may be in the Merrimu residential development.
staff to evaluate against the site selection criteria.!
These proposed parks would serve “district” Step 3 Using the paired comparison technique Based on the ranking above the two preferred sites for
catchments, i.e. more than one suburb each. each criteria is compared against each other, to development of splash parks in the short term are
determine the relative importance of each. ! Bacchus Marsh Outdoor Pool and Ballan Outdoor Pool.
It is not feasible for Council to provide “local” facilities in
Step 4. The comparison of each criterion was A possible third site in the proposed residential area of
every community, nor a regional standard splash park
determined as a frequency which was summed Merrimu. Should be considered as it will be a large
facility. There are a number of regional standard splash
and divided by the total frequency to achieve the population centre in its own right, with limited community
park facilities within a reasonable drive time, and Council
weighting for each criterion. ! facilities.
is not likely to be able to afford to maintain a regional
Step 5. Each site option was evaluated against the
facility. However s site in Merrimu is unlikely to be able to benefit
site selection criteria to provide a score for how well
Council’s Community Infrastructure Framework sets out from colocation with another aquatic service such as a
the option met the criteria. This score was
a time and/or distance-based Travel Accessibility swimming pool, unless this is provided by a developer.
multiplied against the weighting to arrive at a
Standard for each category of community infrastructure. weighted score for each site for each criteria. !
Splash parks do not have adopted standards. Splash Step 6. The weighted scores for each site option
parks logically fit within the 10 minute travel standard, are summed to determine a total for each option,
along with outdoor pools. and this provides a ranking of the sites. The site
with the highest score indicates which option best
meets all criteria. !
Step 7. The final step was to identify other
advantages and disadvantages of each site and
this takes into account other added value and costs
for example. !
253.10 Moorabool Splash Parks – Issues concerning the preferred sites
Following the site analysis, rating of sites and with consideration to site constraints, potential usage and stakeholder preferences, the existing outdoor pool sites are
the preferred locations for future splash parks. However there are issues to address with each site. These are outlined below. !
Issues Concerning the Preferred Sites Solution Impact
Splash parks are typically free to use in public Children under 3 years of age do not currently pay pool Income for the 2017 season for child entry was
parks. Will people pay to use one at an outdoor entry. The free age could be raised to 5 or 10/12 years of $10,000 at Bacchus Marsh and $3,800 at Ballan.
pool site? age, for example to overcome the cost barrier
Additional potential income for the outdoor pools is lost
Note: The survey returns showed that approximately 77% but savings would be made on costs associated with
were prepared to pay $1.00 or more for a splash park. extending season and daily hours of operation.
Some 27% were prepared to pay between $3.00- $5.00
Parents with children under 10 years of age are
Install the splash park outside the fence line of the current expected to supervise their children at all times. This
outdoor pools would be difficult with families wanting to access both
the splash pad and the outdoor pool
!
Season length – Seasonal pools have operated from Extend the season by 4- 6 weeks and decrease the current Additional staff costs $10,800 - $15,800 per season to
Dec 1 to March each summer. A splash park will !
minimum temperature for opening. It would not be supervise swimming pool and operate venue
have demand for a longer season considered safe practice or practical to operate a splash
park with the public swimming pool closed to the public
What supervision is required for a splash park? No lifeguard supervision is required if designed as a zero There are no additional lifeguard costs required for
depth splash park supervision of a zero depth splash park
Hours of Operation - Outdoor pool hours operate Extend morning operating hours outside school holidays. Additional staff costs of approximately $10,000 per
on a temperature policy and are closed below 23C Parents with preschool age children are less influenced by season should be allowed if operating hours were
and reduced hours below 25C outside school school times and are a major user of splash parks extended by 4 hours per day
holiday times
Install a movable fence allowing splash park to be separated
from main pool and operate without staffing
Parking Extend and formalise existing parking Cost to be confirmed
263.11 Costs and Components
The capital cost of splash parks vary depending on Probable capital costs • Grounds maintenance
the size, number of features and the support facilities An opinion of the average costs of providing splash parks • Water testing (Minimum daily, Best Practice 4 hourly)
built with the splash park, such as toilets, shade and are as follows: • Chemicals (Chlorine, Acid/CO2)
BBQ facilities. $225,000 - 50 sq metre pad only • Repair and maintenance (Quarterly service of pumps
A district size splash park built in conjunction with $300,000 - 100 sq metre pad incl. ground sprays only and dosing equipment)
existing facilities can be built for around $500,000. $500,000 - 200 sq metre pad incl. 30 plus features • Insurance
Excludes landscaping and concept design. • Marketing
A review of the operations of splash parks has
Plant components • Security
highlighted a range of differing operating costs.
• Plant Room shed
Splash parks located with existing aquatic facilities Additional Revenue
• Sand Filters
and maintained mainly by on-site aquatic staff can Based on attendances at other district size splash parks,
• Commercial pumps (filtrations and features)
cost as little as $1,500 per month to manage. it is estimated that there could be up to 5,000 additional
• Liquid chlorine and acid dosing system
Assuming that items such as insurance, marketing, visitations to the Bacchus Marsh Outdoor Pool per
• Concrete in ground balance tank (approx. 18,000 litres)
security, and rubbish removal are absorbed as part of season, if a splash park was installed.
the overall operations of the aquatic site. • Manifold and solenoid valves for feature control
• Electrical switchboard and wiring These visits would approximately generate an additional
• Pipework gate revenue of $12,900 per season if children were
A stand-alone splash park could cost around $8,000 a
charged to use the facility.
month to maintain with external contractors Nature of Materials
completing tasks such as 4 hourly water testing, This revenue could be used to offset the additional
backwashing, cleaning and rubbish removal. Nature of material typically include: staffing costs associated with commencing the pool
• Concrete apron – 350 mm thick season in November and opening the pool earlier on
• Stainless steel water features warmer days to allow maximum usage of the splash
Operations pad.
The cost of operations are on average $7,000-$8,000 per
month (incl. some staff cost). These costs include:
• Water
• Electricity (Circulation pump and features pumps)
• Staffing (Backwashing, water testing, cleaning)
• Staff Training
• Cleaning (Pressure washing surface, surrounds)
• Rubbish Removal
273.12 Conclusions
Moorabool is a fast growing municipality, with families and young children a
significant part of that growth. • Lower operating costs where there is access to trained staff for
management, maintenance and water quality monitoring, and security is
A splash park can provide additional fun, affordable, attractive and safe provided with the existing pool
aquatic play opportunities for young families.
• Opportunity to extend the offer at the outdoor pools and enhance their
A new splash park located at the existing outdoor pool sites will add value to use.
the existing facilities, and encourage greater usage. • Resident familiarity with the sites
• If affordable pricing is introduced, income generated by additional visits
@leisure proposes that Moorabool Council plan for the construction of 3 zero could offset additional staff costs
depth district level splash parks within the Shire in the long term, with 2 to be • A splash park could enable the cost effective extension of the outdoor
built in the short term. These are best located with outdoor swimming pools. pool’s season to accommodate the increased visitation if there is warm
weather before the pool’s open.
It is recommended that a 200 square metre splash park be constructed at
the Bacchus Marsh Outdoor Pool as soon as practical and a second splash It is recommended that Council: "
park be built at the Ballan Outdoor Pool within 5 years. A third splash park
1. Plan to provide zero depth splash parks in the long term across the
should be considered for a proposed Merrimu residential development in the
municipality, that cater to a district catchment
long term. Like the splash park constructed at Woodlea Estate in Rockbank, 2. Manage and operate splash parks as part of seasonal pool operations
it is possible that the third splash pad could be constructed by the land 3. Construct a splash park inside the existing fence line of the outdoor
developers, as part of a play facility. pool in Grant St. Bacchus Marsh, replacing the existing toddlers pool
4. Refer an amount of up to $500,000 to Council’s budget and Strategic
Financial Plan for the construction of a Bacchus Marsh splash park
Other splash parks in neighbouring municipalities may service other residents
5. Extend the outdoor pool operating season from November to later in
within Moorabool. March to accommodate splash park patrons
6. Construct a splash park inside the existing fence line of the outdoor
The capital cost for a 200 square metre splash park is approximately pool in in Ballan, replacing the existing toddlers pool
$500,000. The additional operating cost will be between $1,500 and $7,000 7. Refer an amount of up to $450,000 to Council’s budget and Strategic
per month depending on whether the splash park is operated within the Financial Plan for the construction of a splash park in Ballan
existing pool season or is extended beyond the current season. 8. Consider providing a third splash park if Merrimu develops as a
residential area
The advantages of co locating a splash park with the existing outdoor pools
include:
• Lower build cost due to colocation, e.g. Council own the land and the
change rooms/toilets, utility services and chemical storage, kiosk, etc.,
are already provided on sites.
284. Appendices
Appendix 1. Types of Splash Parks
Appendix 2. Splash Park Selection Criteria Table
Appendix 3. Advantages / Disadvantages of Each
Potential Splash Park Location
Appendix 4. Case Studies
Eureka Pool, Ballarat
Appendix 5. Splash Park Examples
Long Gully Splash Park, Bendigo
Seville Water Play Park, Seville
Community Bank Adventure Park, Wallan
Midlands Reserve, Ballarat
Appendix 6. Community Survey Results
Appendix 7. Splash Park Concepts
29Appendix 1. Types of Splash Parks
Outdoor – zero depth single elements within a destination play space
There are a number of different styles of water play Examples:
areas/splash parks, provided in different contexts, for Royal Park Play Space Ian Potter Children’s Garden Ron Barassi Senior Playground
different reasons, and to serve different catchments.
Some typical categories are:
1. Local, outdoor – zero depth single elements within
a destination play space
2. District, outdoor dedicated splash parks (may be
in conjunction with other local play elements or
outdoor seasonal pool )
3. District, outdoor splash parks with pools in
regional parkland or river location (non zero depth)
3. Regional, outdoor dedicated splash park in
conjunction with a municipal/regional aquatic
centre
4. Regional, indoor splash park/water playground
with regional aquatic centre, etc. Outdoor splash park with pools in regional parkland or river location (non zero depth)
5. Regional, large scale commercial “Adventure Vera’s Water Garden: The Entrance Broadwater Parklands, Gold Coast Mildura Water Park
Parks” such as those in Geelong and Whittlesea
Examples of each type are shown here.
The following table also provides a definition of each
catchment hierarchy .
30Types of Splash Parks (continued)
Outdoor district dedicated splash park (zero depth but may be in conjunction with other local play elements or an outdoor seasonal pool)
Examples:
Indoor Splash Park / Water playground with
Long Gully Splash Park, Bendigo Eureka Aquatic Centre, Ballarat Regional Aquatic Centre etc.
!
!
Outdoor dedicated splash park in conjunction with an municipal/regional
! aquatic centre
AquaMoves Shepparton Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre, Bentleigh
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
31
!Appendix 1. Types of Splash Parks Cont’d)
Splash Park Catchment Hierarchy Definitions
Catchment
Definition Description Examples
Hierarchy
Local • Predominantly provided to serve • Relatively simple and small in size, servicing daily and weekly needs • Ron Barrassi Srn, Park Docklands
the immediate catchment ie the • Generally accessed by bicycle or foot from home • Midlands Reserve, North Ballarat
immediate suburb
• Typically served by limited other support facilities, for example may not • Creswick Splash Park, Creswick
• Within approximately 10 mins include on-site car parking, change /toilet and picnic facilities as they
walk. • Sebastapol
are close to home, and the length of stay may be short
• Likely to be colocated with or a component of a play facility.
District • Designed to serve a group of • Generally a larger facility with greater complexity than a local facility
suburbs, and hence where user stay an hour or more due to the size, scale and diversity of • Long Gully, Bendigo
opportunities provided
• most residents might expect to • Salt Water Coast, Point Cook; Riverwalk, Werribee,
drive to the facility • Supported by permanent shade, toilets, seating and tables and possibly Woodlea, Rockbank
picnic facilities
• Within approximately 10 mins • Kingston Waves, Moorabbin
drive time. • Likely to be colocated with another sport or aquatic facilities such as
outdoor pool, district park or accessible play facility • Eureka Aquatic Centre Ballarat
Regional • Facilities that serve regional • By virtue of their scale, diversity or uniqueness, they act as an attraction • Community Bank Adventure Playground, Wallan
catchments (the whole of, or that offers a diversity of opportunities. • Broad Water Parklands
broader than, a municipality) • Support facilities are likely to include food / beverages and other • Aquatic Centre: SPLASH Craigieburn
commercial activities
• Fun Fields, Whittlesea
• They will attract a large number of people, including visitors
• Adventure Park, Wallington
• The length of stay will be longer than district or local facilities i.e. ½ a
day or more. • Townsville and Cairns Foreshores
32 32Appendix 2. Splash Park Site Selection
Table 1 Site Scoring
33Appendix 3. Advantages / Disadvantages of Each Potential Splash Park Location
Bacchus Marsh Outdoor Pool Site
Advantages Disadvantages
• Council owned land • Limited access if operated during existing seasonal
• Colocated with seasonal pool pool openings months (Dec – March)
• Lower build cost e.g. due to presence of utility • Limited access if open during existing operating
services, possibility for share chemical storage hours (Weather dependent - 3.00pm – 6.00pm,
11.00am-7.00pm, 1.00pm-4.00pm)
• Lower operating costs due to trained staff on site,
no duplication of support facilities • The site is on the banks of the Werribee River and
has a number of planning overlays including
• Shared maintenance and security within the
environmental, heritage, erosion, and development
seasonal pool
and design
• Potential location for future indoor aquatic facility
• Potential increase in traffic to Grant Street
• Main road site and highly visible, ability to market
the facility
• Served by a public bus and 10 min walk from the
train station, accessible along the river corridor
• Adds exciting components to existing facilities,
and could replace the older style toddler pool
• Established and highly scenic park setting
• Central location in Moorabool’s largest town, and
central to other sport and recreation facilities
• In close proximity to future growth areas – West
Maddingley and Stonehill Estate.
34Locations – Advantages / Disadvantages
Ballan Outdoor Pool Site
Advantages Disadvantages
• Council owned land • Limited access if operated during existing seasonal
• Colocated with seasonal pool pool opening months (Dec – March)
• Lower build cost, e.g. utility services, share • Limited access if open during existing operating
chemical storage hours (Weather dependent - 3.00pm – 6.00pm,
11.00am-7.00pm, 1.00pm-4.00pm)
• Lower operating costs due to trained staff on site
• Not a highly visible site for passing traffic
• Shared maintenance and security with seasonal
pool • Flood prone
• Park setting with existing dry play equipment, • Not directly serviced by public bus
shade and BBQ nearby
• Adds exciting components to existing facilities
• Space for further compatible recreational activities.
E.g. Skate Park
!
!
35Locations – Advantages / Disadvantages
Maddingley Park
Advantages Disadvantages
• Established park setting • Not visible to passing traffic
• Adds exciting components to existing “Adventure • Higher build costs than other potential sites
Playground” facilities sites
• Walking distance to public bus and 7 min walk • Higher operating costs than other potential
from train station sites as no immediate facilities to colocate with
• Natural shade • Hard landscape may be less compatible
largely green and historic landscape of the
• Central location in Moorabool’s largest town
surround parkland
• Some space for future expansion
• Longer response times to minor maintenance
• Established picnic and sports facilities adjacent matters without on site supervision that can be
provided at outdoor pool sites
• Parking not easily accessible
!
!
36Locations – Advantages / Disadvantages
Federation Avenue Park, Darley
Advantages Disadvantages
• Would be visible on main road • Higher build costs as little support facilities
available
• Adds value to existing park setting
• Higher operating costs as no existing aquatic
• Adds exciting components to basic existing
services in the vicinity
facilities
• Longer response times to minor maintenance
• Natural water features nearby complements
matters
water play
• Pedestrian access limited by river and busy
• Public bus service within 10 minutes walk
road
• Parking used by heavy vehicles
!
!
37Appendix 4. Case Studies
Eureka Pool, City of Ballarat
Eureka Waterplay: Capital Cost $540,000 (ex GST)
August 2015
The concrete pad size is 18m x 12.5m (350mm thick base)
34 features including the Megasoaker bucket
Filtration system (inside an existing plant room shed) consisted of sand filters, commercial pumps
for filtration and features, liquid chlorine/acid dosing system, 18,000L concrete in-ground balance
tank, manifold and solenoid valves for feature control, full electrical switchboard and wiring.
There was significant ground remediation required for this concrete pad since it was situated on
low grade ‘fill’ with approx. 2.6m of unsuitable material which needed screw piles through it (up to
5m deep) along with void former beneath the concrete slab to allow for the seasonal swelling of
the ground (~75mm).
This was an additional cost to the client of approx. $100K (ex GST) which included the site cut
and removal of spoil for the special thickenings in the slab to accommodate the hydraulic
pipework.
Facilities colocated with splash park: 50m & 25m outdoor pool; heated toddler pool; playground;
BBQ area
Operating Cost – Apx $900 per month not including staff costs
Operating Hours – 6.30am – 9.00pm
Season - December to March
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