EDD site assessment Molonglo / Weston Creek swimming facility

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility Page | i

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility Page | ii

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility Page | i

Executive Summary

The ACT Government announced as part of its 2012 election platform that it would

commit $33 million to build a new 50 metre indoor pool in the Weston Creek area and that

the feasibility of a site in Molonglo and a site close to the Weston Creek Group Centre

would be investigated prior to determining a preferred location for the pool and associated

facilities.

The purpose of the study was to identify and assess alternative sites for an aquatic

recreation facility. Five sites were identified. These were:

Block 3 Section 22 Weston (Site 1)

Block 19 Section 45 Holder (Site 2)

Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga (Site 3)

Block 9 Section 24 Stirling (Site 4), and

Molonglo North Wright (Site 5).

The study developed site assessment criteria against which each site was assessed in a

consistent and transparent manner. The site assessment criteria were based on the ESDD

Community and Recreation Facilities General Code and a review of various studies being

undertaken by Sport and Recreation Services in the Economic Development Directorate

(EDD). The criteria included consistency with the Territory Plan, adequacy of the site area

and configuration, location, estimated demand within the catchment area, opportunities for

multi-purpose trips and co-location opportunities.

Sites 1-4 do not meet many of the assessment criteria. For example the proposed

development is not permissible on Sites 1, 3 and 4, the site configuration and

characteristics such as the location of pedestrian paths and trees, constrains development

on Sites 1 and 2, Sites 3 and 4 are too close to residential development and Site 3 is

surrounded on all sides, not visible from surrounding roads and access would be difficult.

Sites 1 and 2 do not enable co-location opportunities and these are limited on Sites 3 and

4. Similarly opportunities for multi-purpose trips are limited on Sites 2, 3 and 4.

The assessment concluded that Site 5 (Molonglo) best meets the assessment criteria and

is therefore the preferred site. The site zoning is consistent with the Territory Plan, the

site is large enough to accommodate the facility, is accessed and visible from major roads

and offers co-location opportunities while being separated from residential areas. The site

is adjacent to Stromlo Park and there are considerable opportunities to benefit from the co-

location of these complementary activities. The two facilities could share parking and the

co-location will generate additional visitors and usage for both activities. However this will

only be achieved if the master planning of each facility is co-ordinated and recognises the

co-location opportunities. The current master planning of Stromlo Park could be reviewed

to assess if there are ways to better integrate the two facilities.

The development of the aquatic and recreation facility in Molonglo will provide a focal

point for the developing district. At the same time the location of the facility will serve

much of Weston Creek and is also accessible from Woden.

The report recommends that the aquatic and recreation facility should be developed in

Molonglo (Site 5).

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility Page | ii

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility Page | iii

Table of Contents

Executive Summary .......................................................................... i

1 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 Background and Purpose ............................................................................. 1 1.2 Report Structure ......................................................................................... 1

2 CONTEXT 2 2.1 Policy Context ........................................................................................... 2

2.1.1 ACTIVE 2020 Strategic Plan ....................................................................... 2 2.1.2 Draft Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework .................................................. 2 2.1.3 Molonglo Aquatic Sports and Recreation Facility Feasibility Study (Hassell) ....... 3

2.2 Distribution of District Pools in Canberra ........................................................ 3 2.3 Development of Molonglo ............................................................................ 5 2.4 Role of Molonglo and Weston Creek .............................................................. 5

3 SITE REQUIREMENTS & LOCATIONAL CRITERIA 8 3.1 Site Requirements ...................................................................................... 8 3.2 Catchment Population ................................................................................. 9

3.2.1 Existing population .................................................................................... 9 3.2.2 Projected population ................................................................................ 10

3.3 Locational Criteria ..................................................................................... 10 3.3.1 ESDD Locational Guidelines ...................................................................... 10 3.3.2 Guidelines in Aquatic Facilities Framework .................................................. 11 3.3.3 Feasibility Study ...................................................................................... 12 3.3.4 Proposed Criteria ..................................................................................... 12

4 ALTERNATIVE SITES 14 4.1 Description of the Sites ............................................................................. 15

4.1.1 Site 1 – Weston Creek (Block 3 Section 22 Weston) .................................... 15 4.1.2 Site 2 –Block 19 Section 45 Holder ........................................................... 16 4.1.3 Site 3 –Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga ..................................................... 17 4.1.4 Site 4 – Block 9 Section 24 Stirling ........................................................... 18 4.1.5 Site 5 - Molonglo: North Wright ................................................................ 19

5 ASSESSMENT OF THE SITES 21 5.1 Territory Plan and Land Tenure ................................................................... 21 5.2 Land Tenure ............................................................................................ 21 5.3 Catchments and Population ....................................................................... 22 5.4 Site Area and Block Configuration ............................................................... 24 5.5 Site Location ........................................................................................... 25 5.6 Access to Public Parking ........................................................................... 27 5.7 Public Transport ....................................................................................... 28 5.8 Co-location opportunities ........................................................................... 29 5.9 Multi-purpose trips .................................................................................... 31 5.10 Visibility .................................................................................................. 31 5.11 Connections ............................................................................................ 32 5.12 Other issue - Impact on open space ............................................................ 32 5.13 Summary of Site Assessment..................................................................... 33

6 PREFERRED LOCATION 37

7 CONCLUSION 38

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility Page | iv

Figures

Figure 1: District and Other Major Aquatic Facilities in the ACT ................................... 4

Figure 2: Molonglo Development Pattern .................................................................. 6

Figure 3: Relationship between Molonglo, Weston Creek and Woden ........................... 7

Figure 4: Alternative Sites .....................................................................................14

Figure 5: Site 1 - Block 3 Section 22 Weston ..........................................................15

Figure 6: Site 2 - Block 19 Section 45 Holder ..........................................................16

Figure 7: Site 3 - Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga ....................................................17

Figure 8: Site 4 - Block 93 Section 24 Stirling .........................................................18

Figure 9: Site 5 - Molonglo ....................................................................................19

Figure 10: Site 5 Context .......................................................................................20

Figure 11: Catchment areas ....................................................................................23

Figure 12: North Wright Concept Plan ......................................................................27

Figure 13: Bus Routes within the Weston Creek and Molonglo Catchment .....................29

Tables

Table 1: Potential Site Area Breakdown .................................................................. 9

Table 2: ACT Population Growth per District 2009 - 2021 .......................................10

Table 3: Community and Recreational Facilities Location Guidelines General Code

requirements for Indoor Recreation Facility .................................................11

Table 4: Site Assessment Criteria .........................................................................13

Table 5: Catchment area populations .....................................................................22

Table 6: Assessment criteria and preferred site .......................................................33

Table 7: Summary of Site Assessment ..................................................................34

Any representation, statement, opinion or advice expressed or implied in this publication is made in good faith but

on the basis that Purdon Associates, its agents and employees are not liable to any person for any damage or

loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur, in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case

may be) action, in respect of any representation, statement or advice referred to in this report.

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility Page | v

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility Page | 1

1 Introduction

1.1 Background and Purpose

Sport and recreation is an important aspect of the lives of most people in the ACT, helping

to improve our overall health and well being, and contributing to social connection.

Sporting facilities are an important focal point of a community: they are places where

families and friends come together; they provide opportunities to participate in sport and

to recreate; and they contribute to healthy lifestyles. Canberra is Australia’s largest inland

City. The city’s aquatic facilities therefore make a significant contribution not only to the

community’s quality of life but also to its access to water.

Indoor aquatic and recreation centres are significant pieces of community infrastructure

that contribute to a district’s identity and together with other social infrastructure

influence where people want to live and work. When designed thoughtfully and/or co-

located with other elements of community infrastructure and services they become hubs

of community activity, providing opportunities for the development of invaluable social

connections and community engagement. They are significant economic entities and are

pivotal to the development and maintenance of community health, wellbeing and fitness.

Aquatic facilities enable children to engage with water and critical learning for their water

safety.

As part of its 2012 election platform, the ACT Government announced that it would

commit $33 million to build a new 50 metre indoor pool in the Weston Creek area. It also

announced that a feasibility study was being undertaken for a pool site north of Stromlo

Forest Park and that the feasibility of a site close to the Weston Creek Centre would also

be investigated prior to deciding on the best site for the district.

The purpose of this report is to assess alternative sites in Weston Creek and Molonglo to

identify the most appropriate site for the proposed pool facility. The report addresses the

Government’s commitment to investigate sites in the two districts before determining a

preferred location for the aquatic and recreation facility.

1.2 Report Structure

The report considers the planning framework for the provision of a new aquatic and

recreation facility in Weston Creek/Molonglo, considers demographic trends and

developments criteria against which the alternative sites are assessed to identify a

preferred site.

Section 2 considers the policy context, pattern of development of Molonglo and population

projections for Weston Creek and Molonglo. Section 3 considers site requirements and

assessment criteria and Section 4 assesses the alternative sites.


2 Context

Two key strategies establish the framework for planning for the development of an aquatic

facility for Weston Creek and Molonglo. In addition, EDD has investigated the activities to

be included in an aquatic and recreation centre and possible locations in Molonglo.

2.1 Policy Context

2.1.1 ACTIVE 2020 Strategic Plan

ACTIVE 2020 is a long term strategic plan for sport and active recreation in the ACT and

Region. It provides a blueprint upon which sport and recreation will be nurtured and

promoted over the period 2011-2020. It promotes partnerships between industry and

government and investment in long term sustainable outcomes. Importantly ACTIVE 2020

allows for long term planning by sport and recreation associations in the ACT and Region.

ACTIVE 2020 embodies three fundamental goals that are pursued by most sport and

recreation organisations in the ACT:

to increase participation in competitive, non-competitive and social sport and

recreation activities at all levels;

to provide opportunities for achieving excellence in sporting performance; and

to ensure access to sustainable and quality infrastructure for the delivery of their

activities.

The Plan also includes seven strategic priorities. A strategic initiative of Priority 1

(maximise community engagement/participation in sport and active recreation) is to

improve access to sport and recreation. Priority 7 seeks to maximise sporting

infrastructure and includes the strategic initiative of promoting greater creation and use of

multi-sport, recreation and community facilities.

2.1.2 Draft Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework

Sport and Recreation Services within the Economic Development Directorate is developing

an Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework 2012-2032.

The draft Framework presents a vision of community access to, and participation in,

quality aquatic facilities, programs and services. The Framework builds on and

complements other strategies, including ACTIVE 2020.

The objectives of the Framework include to:

facilitate universal access to aquatic facilities

allow for suitable sites that ensure optimal design of facilities, and

encourage the co-location of aquatic facilities with functionally diverse district

facilities to encourage the development of community activity hubs and efficient

transport connections.

The goals of the Framework include to:

identify areas of greatest need

identify co-location opportunities, and

establish the potential scale of future facilities.


The draft Framework recognises that Molonglo will require aquatic facilities to meet the

needs of its future population. It also recognises that the new Molonglo population,

combined with the population of Weston Creek and Woden Valley will support a facility.

2.1.3 Molonglo Aquatic Sports and Recreation Facility Feasibility Study (Hassell)

In October 2012, Hassell conducted a feasibility study for a possible Aquatic Sport and

Recreation Centre in Molonglo. The key objectives of the study were to determine where,

what land size and the facilities that are required to meet the future aquatic and indoor

sport/recreational needs of the Molonglo community. The feasibility study was prepared

to help guide the future planning decisions regarding the potential provision of an

aquatic/leisure centre in Molonglo.

The feasibility study found that a district level facility was most appropriate to serve

Molonglo and Weston Creek. The study considered three sites and concluded that a site

located at the gateway to Stromlo Forest Park and near the Molonglo/Coombs community

precinct and River Park was the only viable site. The study proposed that the facility

should incorporate aquatic and recreational facilities and community, commercial and

health facilities. The preferred site in Molonglo is included in the following assessment.

2.2 Distribution of District Pools in Canberra

District facilities provide the widest public access with multi-purpose and community

based programs. They generally provide 50 metre and/or 25 metre 8-10 lane pools,

usually to Olympic standard. In addition district facilities usually include learn to swim and

water play facilities for young children and available for use all of the year (i.e. indoor

facility). A district facility would typically provide a range of year round programs and

could support aquatic and non-aquatic health and fitness, and social and community

activities. These facilities are increasingly co-located with dry fitness, other sport and

recreation, community, education and health and retail facilities.

Ideally because of the scale and range of activities, district facilities should be closely

linked with other community facilities and with shopping centres and schools. They

should also be well connected to the public transport and movement networks.

Major district level facilities are located at Tuggeranong (Lakeside Leisure Centre), CISAC

Belconnen (Canberra International Swimming and Aquatic Centre), Canberra Olympic Pool

in the city centre and Gungahlin Leisure Centre, which is currently under construction

(Figure 1). These facilities are intended to meet district-wide needs.

The draft Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework notes that district facilities have a

catchment that is about 10km in diameter. Based on this catchment definition, Molonglo

and Weston Creek are serviced by existing facilities in Woden, Tuggeranong and Canberra

Central. However the ageing and outdated standard of Phillip Swimming and Ice Skating

Centre, which is a seasonal pool, together with population growth in Molonglo reinforces

the need for a district facility. Further, there are fewer district facilities south of Lake

Burley Griffin than to the north and this area is considered ‘generally under-served by

existing aquatic facilities1.

In the southern districts of Canberra there are also several major facilities that provide

some district-type facilities, however they are not designated as district facilities partly

because they are not open all year (Figure 1).

1 Hassell: Molonglo Aquatic Sports and Recreation Centre – Feasibility Study (October 2012) p18


There are many other, generally smaller aquatic facilities within Canberra that provide

specialised or local facilities but the above facilities service district level communities.

Figure 1: District and Other Major Aquatic Facilities in the ACT


2.3 Development of Molonglo

Molonglo is a new urban release area located on the western edge of Canberra. The land

sits between the established suburbs of Cook/Macquarie in the north and Duffy/Holder and

Weston in the south.

The planning capacity of the district is about 58,000 persons of which about 27,600 will

live south of the river and 31,400 will live north of the river.

Molonglo will be developed in three stages. Stages 1 and 2 are located on the southern

bank of the Molonglo River and Stage 3 is located on the northern bank. The areas will be

linked by a new arterial road and public transport spine, John Gorton Drive.

Stage 1 is currently under construction and includes the new suburbs of Coombs and

Wright. The suburbs are adjacent to Stromlo Forest Park. Stage 2 is located to the north-

west of Coombs and will contain the Molonglo group centre. Planning for Stage 2 is

underway and development is expected to commence in the next 5-10 years. Stage 3 is

located to the north of the Molonglo River and will be primarily residential with two smaller

centres. Development is likely to commence in the next 10+ years. It is likely that a

proposed aquatic facility will be located in either Stage 1 or 2 closest to the group centre

(Figure 2).

2.4 Role of Molonglo and Weston Creek

From a planning perspective, Weston Creek has always been regarded as part of the

district of Woden-Weston Creek. District-wide facilities have generally been located in the

Woden town centre (WTC) and are intended to serve both areas. Sub-district facilities or

facilities that serve a group of suburbs have been located in the Weston Creek Group

Centre. This centre is the largest of all the group centres and provides a more diverse

range of goods and services than is usually found in a group centre, mainly because the

size of the catchment population is larger. Over time Weston Creek residents and

community organisations have requested that town centre-type facilities be located in or in

the vicinity of the Weston Creek Group Centre.

Social and community activity in Molonglo will also be based around a group centre and a

town centre is not being planned for the district. The group centre is to be located to the

north of Wright in the vicinity of the Molonglo River.

The development of Molonglo is likely to change the relationship between Woden and

Weston Creek. Together Molonglo and Weston Creek will be large enough to support

some town centre scale activities. While many facilities and services that serve Weston

Creek and at least parts of Molonglo will continue to be located in the WTC, some district-

wide facilities that are intended to serve the three areas could be located in Weston Creek

or Molonglo. Facilities provided in one area would be used by residents of the others

(Figure 3). Over time Molonglo and Weston Creek are likely to be closely inter-related. In

this context the challenge will be to ensure an appropriate distribution of facilities that

maximises access, ensures that residents of Weston Creek continue to have access to a

wide range of facilities and services and that Molonglo can develop its own identify and

character based partly on the range of facilities and services located there.


Figure 2: Molonglo Development Pattern

POTENTIAL SITE FOR AQUATIC SPORT AND RECREATION FACILITY


Figure 3: Relationship between Molonglo, Weston Creek and Woden


3 Site Requirements & Locational Criteria

The following outlines the site requirements and locational criteria for district level aquatic

and recreational facility.

3.1 Site Requirements

As noted above, the various studies have concluded that a district facility is required to

meet the needs of Molonglo and Weston Creek residents.

District facilities provide the widest public access with multi-purpose and community

based programs. Although the facilities would vary between district facilities depending

on the characteristics of the catchment population, district level aquatic and recreation

facilities would typically include:

50m indoor pool / 25 metre indoor pool

warm water program pool

water play area

fitness gym

multi-Purpose program rooms

health and Medical Consulting suites

community and Training meeting room(s)

outdoor summer social and water play settings

meeting rooms for local clubs and groups,

cafe and social area,

occasional child care, or early years facilities, and

co-located functions, partner facilities, programs and services as identified.

The Feasibility Study indicates that the proposed facility would include a range of uses and

about 11,350m2 GFA (Table 1). The Hassell report assumed that 300 car spaces were

required for the facility. On this basis it estimated that a site of about 2ha would required

to accommodate the proposed uses and associated parking.

The parking requirements were reviewed as part of the current project. If the aquatic and

recreation centre was to be located on land zoned Commercial Leisure and

Accommodation (CZ6). Based on the activities proposed to be located in the facility and

the provisions of the Vehicular Access and Parking General Code, it is estimated that

about 460 car spaces would be required, assuming that some uses are ancillary to other

uses and therefore would not generate additional parking demand. In this circumstance,

the proposed development would occupy at least 2.5ha and a site of about 2.8ha would

be required assuming single level development and allowing for landscaping and

access/egress (Table 1).

If the facility was to be located on land zoned Restricted Access Open Space, the parking

code requires about 550 parking spaces be provided. Thus the development would

occupy an area of about 2.8ha and require a site of about 3.3ha.

The above areas are indicative and depending on the site configuration and with careful

planning it may be possible to reduce the area requirements slightly. Further if the scale of

development was reduced, the parking requirements and hence the site area requirements

would also be reduced. For example deleting the theatrette would reduce requirements by

over 60 spaces..


Table 1: Potential Site Area Breakdown

Functional Zones Area (m2)

Parking for Zone

Accommodation

and leisure

Restricted

access

Gym 1200 42 42

Medical 200 Na* na

Community 600 73 73

Indoor Courts 3200 75 75

Aquatic 2900 270 360

Miscellaneous 450 na na

Administration 200 na* na

Functional Areas 8750

Gross area (30%

circulation/services) 11350

Total parking

460 550

Parking (@ 30m2/space)

13800m2 16500m2

Total development area (ex

landscaping) 25,100m2 27,800m2

Site area (approx)

2.8ha 3.1ha

Source: Hassell: Molonglo Aquatic Sports and Recreation Facility Study Section 6.3

Note: Floorspace estimates have been rounded to nearest 50m2 from those in the report.

Parking estimates are based on Code requirements and functional areas in the Hassell report

* Uses ancillary to other facilities

3.2 Catchment Population

The draft Planning Framework indicates that district facilities require a catchment

population of more than 30,000. The Feasibility Study proposes that a district or sub-ACT

facility requires a catchment population of 50,000 or 80,000 – 100,000 people.

The Feasibility Study recommended that the facility should have a long term primary

catchment population of 80,000 people covering the areas of Weston Creek and Molonglo.

Woden would form a secondary catchment and the total catchment population would be

113,000.

3.2.1 Existing population

Weston Creek

In 2011, the population of Weston Creek was 23,600 people. The population peaked in

1986 (26,900 people) and has declined in each inter-census period since. In conjunction

with the gradual decline, the population is ageing. In 2011, 24% of the Weston Creek

population was aged 60 years and over.

Woden

In 2011, the population of Woden was 33,887 people. The population has gradually

increased since 2001 with the population expected to peak in 2012 at 34,300, and then

remain fairly consistent until 2021 with a projected population of 33,600. In 2011, 18%

of the population was aged 60 years and over.


Molonglo

In 2011, the population of Molonglo was 29 people. As Molonglo develops, the

population is expected to increase dramatically with projected populations of 10,450 by

2016 and 20,600 by 2021. It is anticipated that young families will form a substantial

proportion of the initial Molonglo population.

3.2.2 Projected population

Between 2012 and 2021, the population of both Woden and Weston Creek is projected to

decline by 2% and 7% respectively. The population of Molonglo will increase eightfold in

the same period, albeit it from a very low base (Table 2).

The total catchment population is projected to increase from 60,100 in 2012 to 78,100 in

2021. Over the same period the population of the primary catchment is projected to

increase from 23,800 to 42,500.

Table 2: ACT Population Growth per District 2009 - 2021

District 2009 2012 2015 2018 2021 Change

Woden 33,800 34,300 38,850 33,500 33,650 -150

Weston Creek 23,300 23,550 22,850 22,050 21,850 -1,450

Molonglo 250 7,450 15,350 20,600 20,600

Total Catchment 59,109 60,112 71,165 72,918 78,121 19,000

Source: ACT Population Projections for Suburbs and Districts: 2001-2021 Summary

3.3 Locational Criteria

Locational criteria were developed to consistently and objectively assess the suitability of

the alternative sites for an aquatic and recreational facility. The assessment criteria were

developed from three sources:

ACTPLA Community and Recreational Facilities Location Guidelines General Code

ACT Government Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework (2012 -2032) (draft), and

Molonglo Sports and Recreation Centre Feasibility Study.

3.3.1 ESDD Locational Guidelines

The Community and Recreational Facilities Location Guidelines General Code outlines

guidelines for the location of community and recreational facilities. The Code forms part

of the Territory Plan and is used in making decisions about where to locate facilities,

including facilities for indoor recreation, such as a swimming complex. The Code is not

intended to be a rigid standard but rather to provide a guide in determining suitable sites

and locations for facilities. The objectives of the Code are:

to protect and enhance social amenity for all ACT residents and visitors, including

access to services, safety and equity in the distribution of facilities

to maximise efficient land use, accessibility and convenience for uses through

clustering related facilities and encouraging shared use, and

to protect and enhance residential amenity for ACT residents while meeting the need

to provide access to facilities best located in residential areas.

The code requirements for an indoor recreation facility are outlined in Table 3.


Table 3: Community and Recreational Facilities Location Guidelines General Code

requirements for Indoor Recreation Facility

Development Relationship

to Shops

Relationship to

other uses –

Close to

Separated

From

Co-location

Opportunity Other Issues

Indoor

Recreation

Centre (pool,

gym, indoor

courts etc)

Swimming

Complex;

Tennis Centre

At town or

group retail

centre

Near major car

parking areas if

parking

demand not

met on site

Social

separation of

youth facilities

and liquor

outlets

Noise

separation or

adequately

noise buffered

from residential

areas

Outdoor

recreation

facilities;

enclosed oval;

skating rink;

school;

secondary

college; gym;

indoor courts;

community arts

and cultural

facilities; youth

resources centre

Safe drop-off

area at or near

site; bus bays

Close proximity

to licensed club

may be

appropriate if

other

relationships

(e.g. with school

are colleges) are

not compromised

In addition, the Code includes general criteria:

all community and recreation facilities that are used by the public should be located

on or near public transport routes which provide services which are appropriate to the

user group of the facility and generally within 500 metres or 400 metres for older

people and 200 metres for young children.

community facilities generally should be located near retail centres in a position that is

relatively central to their long-term catchment and at a level of the urban hierarchy

that is appropriate to their size and scale.

compatible facilities should be clustered and facilities, including parking, shared

wherever possible to increase participation opportunities.

mixed uses must be compatible in scale and consistent with neighbouring uses.

facilities used at night should also be located to enable informal surveillance or

‘overlooking’ by other activity in the area or by passing traffic.

3.3.2 Guidelines in Aquatic Facilities Framework

The Draft ACT Government Aquatic Facilities Planning Framework outlines planning and

design principles and guidelines for aquatic facilities within the ACT. From a locational

perspective the planning and design principles can be restated as:

Maximise the benefits of co-location: locate the facility in proximity to other

complementary activities and diversify the mix of uses.

Connecting recreational networks: locate aquatic facilities within the broader ACT

recreational network.

Accessibility: clear, adequate connections.

High quality connections to the surrounding public realm, pedestrian and cycle

pathways.

Infrastructure connections: design of surrounding public domain, open space and

streets should maximise interconnections with the facility. The facility should be

connected with the surrounding neighbourhood.

Transport: all modes of transport are to be accessible. Public transport frequency and

access will be critical to maximising use of the facility. Building site should be easily

accessible by public transport routes and cars and within walking distance of some

potential users.


Visibility: A prominent location is required to attract a large number of people to the

facilities.

Security: a high concentration of activity will complement security and achieve the

level of safety public facilities require.

The draft Framework also identifies spatial needs and area requirements that should be

taken into account in developing locational criteria. These include:

Site capacity: the site should be large enough to provide a sufficient square or

broad rectangular site “footprint” for the planning of integrated buildings,

associated uses and future expansion.

Integrate with surrounding land use: to maximise connections and encourage co-

location. The facility should not be isolated but in proximity to shopping centres,

education and facilities.

Efficiency: encourage efficient use of land.

Flexibility: allow for future flexibility and adaptations of use.

3.3.3 Feasibility Study

Based on the study of social infrastructure requirements for Molonglo2, the Feasibility

Study outlines over-arching location principles and guidelines for not only aquatic and

recreation facilities but community facilities in general. These include:

central to the catchment area and provide equitable access to all potential users

accessible by public transport

connected to pedestrian and cycling networks

on a main street with a ground floor street presence for optimum visibility and

accessibility

clustered with other facilities such as shops, schools and other community facilities

near open space to allow for related outdoor activities and community events

near sporting, recreation and leisure facilities to create a healthy and active focus

on sufficient land to enable expansion and adaptation as needs change, and

sited to avoid conflict with neighbouring uses.

3.3.4 Proposed Criteria

Based on the above sources, criteria were developed and used to assess the feasibility and

suitability of the alternative sites (Table 4).

The criteria include access to public transport, parking and opportunities for co-location

and multi-purpose trips. The ACT Government and Hassell documents discuss the

importance of access to public transport, parking, and co-location and multi-purpose trips

for viability.

2 Elton Consulting: Social Infrastructure for Molonglo Suburbe 3, 4 and Group Centre (2010) (for

ACTPLA)


Table 4: Site Assessment Criteria

Criteria Requirement

Territory Plan Land use permitted in zone

Consistent with Territory Plan

Land Tenure Unleased Territory Land/ Government as custodian

Preferably not used by community or Government

Site Area (Size and

configuration)

Site is sufficiently large to accommodate the development, including parking

(2.8ha – 3.1ha)

On sufficient land to enable expansion and adaptation as needs change

Regular shaped block to enable efficient development

Catchment population Catchment is sufficient to support facility e.g. 50,000 – 80,000 people for a

district facility

Location Located at town or group retail centre or within close proximity or clustered

with other similar facilities such as shopping centres, schools and other

community facilities

Central location to catchment area with equitable access for all users

Noise separation or adequately noise buffered from residential areas

Facilities are compatible with surrounding uses

Parking Parking provision in accordance with parking code requirements

Opportunities for shared parking and determined with needs of future

expansion

Located near major car parking areas if parking demand is not met on site

Safe drop off area at or near the site, bus bay

Public Transport Access to public transport routes serving district

Sufficient frequency of services to the site

Not more than 400m and preferably 200m from bus stop or within walking

distance

Co-location

opportunities

Proximity and possible co-location with other similar facilities e.g. outdoor

recreation facilities; enclosed oval; skating rink; school; secondary college;

gym; indoor courts; community arts and cultural facilities; youth resources

centre

Complementary mix of uses to maximize benefits of co-location

Near open space to allow for related outdoor activities and community events

Near sporting, recreation and leisure facilities to create a healthy and active

focus

Multi-purpose trips Opportunity to combine visit to aquatic recreation facility with other activities

(shopping, health services, community services, food)

Capacity to maximise multi-purpose trips and minimise the number of trips

Visibility Prominent location to attract a large number of people

On main street with ground floor street presence

Connections Connected to the surrounding neighbourhood, public realm and cycle

pathways


4 Alternative Sites

The election announcement stated that sites ‘close to the Weston Creek Group Centre’

would be investigated. For the purpose of this study ‘close to the Weston Creek Group

Centre was defined to be approximately 1km from the edges of the Group Centre. This

included Weston and parts of Holder, Waramanga, Stirling and Rivett. In addition the

assessment also investigates a potential site within Molonglo.

Five sites in three locations were identified for the proposed aquatic and recreation facility

within Weston Creek/Molonglo catchment. The sites were:




Block 9 Section 24 Stirling (Site 4)

Molonglo North Wright (Site 5)

The sites are described in the following sub-section and their suitability is assessed

throughout the balance of this section. The assessment does not include detailed site

investigations and it is assumed all services are available to the selected sites.

Figure 4: Alternative Sites


4.1 Description of the Sites

4.1.1 Site 1 – Weston Creek (Block 3 Section 22 Weston)

Block 3 Section 22 is located about 400 metres from the Weston Creek Group Centre

(from the skate park to the northern entry to Coolaman Court) and is the closest site to

the centre under consideration. The site contains three development options (Figure 5).

The site is not part of the area identified as the group centre in the Territory Plan, however

it is part of the Weston Creek Master Plan study area. The site is bounded by Hilder

Street to the north, a community facility to the east, an outdoor tennis complex/courts to

the south and vegetation and Streeton Drive to the west. Cricket batting and bowling

training facilities and the Weston Skate Park are located near the southern boundary of the

site.

The site is currently an oval for the suburb of Weston but is not irrigated. Sport and

Recreation Services have advised that subject to future planning decisions and the

provision of sports grounds in Molonglo, Weston Oval may be restored in the future to

assist in accommodating the needs of Molonglo. The Weston Creek Centre master

planning has taken this possible future use into account. The preliminary master plan

proposes that over the next 10 years the future use of the oval is ‘on hold’ for possible

use with Molonglo ovals and that over the following 10-20 years the status of the oval

would be reviewed.

Detailed assessment of the feasibility of this site is provided in Section 5.

Figure 5: Site 1 - Block 3 Section 22 Weston


4.1.2 Site 2 –Block 19 Section 45 Holder

Block 19 Section 45 is located 550m north from the Weston Group Centre in the suburb

of Holder (Figure 6). The site fronts Streeton Drive on the east and the stormwater

channel on the west. An east-west pedestrian path bisects the site.

The site contains several trees that would need to be removed if the area is to be

developed. Urban Open Space and Mulley Street are located to the south of the site, the

storm water channel and Canberra Montessori School are located to the west and an

archery range to the north.


Figure 6: Site 2 - Block 19 Section 45 Holder


4.1.3 Site 3 –Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga

Block 2 Section 42 is located approximately 1km south-east of the Weston Creek Group

Centre (Figure 7).

The site is currently an oval and is located within the Waramanga District Playing Fields

that consist of 4 ovals. This part of Waramanga DPF is not irrigated and is utilised by the

ACT Veteran’s Athletics for all throwing events. The site has a small frontage to Walpiri

Place that connects to Namatjira Drive.

Ovals that are part of the DFP are located to the south of the site. A pedestrian path

connecting to the greater Weston Creek separates the oval from adjacent residential

development to the east. Residential development is also located to the north, south-west

and south-east. The Waramanga Local Centre is located to the east and a church and

school along Namatjira Drive are located to the west of the site.


Figure 7: Site 3 - Block 2 Section 42 Waramanga


4.1.4 Site 4 – Block 9 Section 24 Stirling

Block 9 Section 24 is located approximately 1km south-west of the Weston Creek Group

Centre (Figure 8). The block comprises four ovals within the Stirling District Playing Fields.

The site under consideration for the proposed aquatic and recreation facility is the oval to

the south of Sherratt Place fronting Streeton Drive to the west. The site has been

converted to become an AgriDark Turf Nursery. AgriDark is a New Zealand couch grass

cultivar.

Netball courts and oval that are part of the Stirling District Playing Fields are located to the

north and east of the site. Townhouse residential development is located to the south of

the site and detached housing is located to the west.


Figure 8: Site 4 - Block 93 Section 24 Stirling


4.1.5 Site 5 - Molonglo: North Wright

The site is located in North Wright, approximately 4.5km from the Weston Creek Group

Centre, with a frontage to John Gorton Drive and the proposed extension of Uriarra Road

(east-west), the primary vehicular and public transport spine through Molonglo (Figure 9

and Figure 10)

. The western boundary interfaces with Stromlo Forest Park providing a connection to the

park following the realignment of Uriarra Road.

Future development to the north will include community and educational facilities and

residential development. Detailed assessment of the feasibility of this site is provided in

Section 5.

Figure 9: Site 5 - Molonglo


Figure 10: Site 5 Context


5 Assessment of the Sites

5.1 Territory Plan and Land Tenure

The land use zones for the sites are:

Site 1 (Weston) PRZ1: Urban Open Space

Site 2 (Holder) PRZ2: Restricted Access Recreation Zone

Site 3 (Waramanga) PRZ1: Urban Open Space

Site 4 (Stirling) PRZ1: Urban Open Space

Site 5 (Molonglo): CZ6: Leisure and Accommodation Zone and Future Urban Area

Under the Territory Plan definitions, the aquatic and recreation facility is defined as an

indoor recreation facility which means “the use of land for sporting activities where such

use is primarily indoors.” This use includes a fitness centre, gymnasium, indoor sports

stadium, indoor swimming pool, and squash court.

An indoor recreation facility is permissible in the PRZ2: Restricted Access Recreation Zone,

and CZ6: Leisure and Accommodation Zone. An indoor recreation facility is not

permissible in the PRZ1: Urban Open Space Zone, although outdoor recreation facilities are

permissible.

The zoning of Sites 2 and 5 permits an aquatic and recreation facility. However the

facility could not be developed on Sites 1, 3 or 4 unless the Territory Plan zoning was

varied to permit the proposed use.

A variation to the Territory Plan typically takes 12-18 months and the complexity of the

process means that the outcome cannot be guaranteed. A variation would only be

feasible if funding for the facility is not likely to be available until 2015/2016.

Rezoning of land from open space to other uses has traditionally been contentious. There

is a strong risk that some members of the community could object to the proposed

rezoning and also to the proposed development of an aquatic and leisure facility. On the

other hand, there are a number of district level playing fields within the vicinity of Sites 1,

3 or 4 and several other local ovals within Weston Creek. The proposed facility could

potentially add to the diversity of recreation options and facilities available within the

district.

Summary: The proposed facility would be permissible on Sites 2 (Holder) and 5

(Molonglo) under the existing zoning. The remaining sites would require a

variation of the Territory Plan to rezone the sites to allow the proposed use.

5.2 Land Tenure

Each of the sites is unleased Territory land. However although Sites 3 and 4 are not

leased they are being used for other purposes. If either of these sites was identified for

the aquatic centre, it would be necessary to relocate the uses of the sites. The availability

of alternate sites has not been investigated.

Similarly as noted above, Sport and Recreation Services have indicated that Site 1 could

be required in the future as an oval to meet needs arising in Molonglo. The Site may be

required for this purpose because relatively flat land is limited in Molonglo.


Summary: Development of an aquatic facility on Sites 2 or 5 would be more

consistent with existing land tenure and would have least impact on the

existing and possible future use of Sites 1, 3 and 4.

5.3 Catchments and Population

As noted previously, a catchment population of about 50,000 – 80,000 people is required

to support the proposed aquatic facility and to ensure its effective use. The population of

the of Weston Creek and Molonglo is currently about 60,000 and is projected to increase

to about 78,000 by 2021. In addition the existing population of Woden is about 34,300

and is projected to decline to 33,650 by 2021.

Ideally the proposed facility should be located on a site that is accessible from the widest

possible area and hence captures a high proportion of the population within two districts.

In other words the facility should be central to its catchment population to ensure that it

can capture users from the whole catchment, rather than only part of it.

Figure 11 shows the estimated catchment area for each of the alternative sites. The

definition of the catchment areas has taken account of the existing and planned road

network and the location of other facilities.

It indicates that the primary catchment areas are as follows:

Sites 1, 2 and 5 would include all of Weston Creek and Molonglo.

Site 3 would include Weston Creek and the southern suburbs of Molonglo

Site 4 would include Weston Creek and is unlikely to attract a high proportion of users

from Molonglo.

Based on the catchment areas defined in Figure 11, Table 5 shows the existing and

projected populations. In 2012 the population catchment of each site is comparable

however by 2021, the catchment of Sites 1,2 and 5 is the largest.

Summary: Sites 1, 2 and 5 better serve the potential catchment area than do Sites 3

and 4 and have a larger catchment than does Site 3 or Site 4.

Table 5: Catchment area populations

Year Sites 1,2 & 5 Site 3 Site 4

2009 23,300 23,300 23,300

2012 23,800 23,800 23,550

2016 32,950 31,100 22,500

2021 42,450 32,100 21,850


Figure 11: Catchment areas


5.4 Site Area and Block Configuration

The site areas are summarised below.

Site Area Configuration

Site 1 (Weston)

Total area – 3.81ha

Possible sites:

Option 1 - 3.5ha (approx)



Rectangular – square

Bounded by Streeton Drive,

Hilder Street, community

centre and skateboard park.

Site 2 (Holder)

Total area – 3.19ha

South of path – 2ha approx

North of path – 1ha approx

Elongated

Bound by the stormwater

channel, pedestrian

underpass and Streeton Drive

Site 3 (Waramanga) Total area – 6.33ha

Possible site – 3ha (approx)

Triangular

Bounded by residential

development, open space,

schools and the local centre.

Site 4 (Stirling) Total area – 22.88ha

Possible site – 3.5ha (approx)

Square

Bounded by residential

development and open space

Site 5 (Molonglo) Possible site – 5ha (approx) Rhomboidal

A site of about 3.3ha would be required to develop an aquatic and recreation facility on

Site 2. An east-west pedestrian path divides Site 2. The path connects via an underpass

under Streeton Drive to Weston. The area to the south of the park is about 2ha and the

area to the north is about 1ha. The whole site would be required to accommodate the

facility. It would be possible to integrate the pathway into the parking for the facility. It

would also be possible to relocate the path, however this could raise actual or perceived

safety concerns regarding where people crossed Streeton Drive. In addition, some existing

trees would have to be removed to accommodate the facility. If Site 2 was the preferred

location, a tree assessment would be required to establish the impact of removing the

trees.

The site is elongated and relatively narrow. Given the configuration of the site, the

interface between the parking areas and the building would be restricted and parking areas

would be some distance from the building. In addition the site area could not be increased

to expand the facility in the future.

Assuming that Sites 1, 3 and 4 were rezoned to Leisure and Accommodation (CZ6), an

area of about 2.9ha would be required. The same area of land would be required to

accommodate the facility on Site 5.

Site 1 Options 1 and 2 could accommodate the facility, whereas Option 3 is not large

enough. Development of Option 1 would necessitate removal of the majority of trees on

the site and possible relocation of the pedestrian path leading to the underpass. Option 2

would require removal of the majority of trees to the north of the pedestrian path. If Site

1 is considered as the preferred site, the significance of the trees should to be assessed


prior to deciding on this location as it may not be possible to remove all the trees. The

site configuration would not constrain site planning. The site could not be expanded.

The area of Site 3 is adequate for the proposed facility. It is triangular in shape which

could restrict site planning options. The site could not be expanded in the future unless

the district playing field to the south was rezoned.

Site 4 could accommodate the aquatic and recreation centre. The site is a regular shape

and its configuration does not constrain site planning. The site could only be expanded by

rezoning the open space to the north (and loss or relocation of the courts) and realignment

of Sherratt Place.

Site 5 could accommodate the facility. The configuration of the site would not constrain

site planning. It should be noted that although Site 5 is not a regular shape, the size of

the site is considerably larger than is required and therefore various siting opportunities

would be possible. The site could accommodate future expansion of the aquatic facility.

Summary: All the sites currently defined could accommodate the recommended site area

and building footprint. Site 5 has the greatest potential for future expansion.

Sites 1, 4 and 5 most closely resemble the preferred configuration.

5.5 Site Location

Ideally, indoor recreation facilities should be located at town or group centres. They

should also be located in close proximity to, or clustered with similar facilities such as

shopping centres, schools and other community facilities. The location of aquatic and

recreation facilities should be compatible with surrounding uses.

Site 1 (Weston) is located adjacent to Weston Creek Group Centre and is the closest site

to the centre and is within walking distance. The site is adjacent to a regional community

centre and the Weston Creek Skate Park. The site is also opposite residential areas of

Weston and there is minimal separation between the two uses. Development of the

facility in this location could change the neighbourhood character of the area.

Site 1 is located at the intersection of a sub-arterial road and a collector road. Access to

the site would be from Hilder Street. There are currently no access points directly from

Streeton Drive into individual developments in the area north of Hindmarsh Drive. The

traffic implications of creating an entry/exit to Streeton Drive would have to be

investigated. Although detailed investigations would be required it is probable that Hilder

Street could accommodate the probable traffic volumes.

Site 2 (Holder) is located 550m from the Centre and is not within walking distance of it.

The site is separated from residential development. The site is adjacent to a major

stormwater channel. It is not known if the 1:100 year flood event is contained within the

channel or spreads to the immediate area. It is understood that flood information is to be

placed on ACTmapi at the end of February. Notwithstanding the availability of this

information, if Site 2 was the preferred location for the aquatic centre, it would be

desirable to engage a hydraulic engineer to provide flooding information, especially in

relation to the impact of flash flooding on the site.

Site 2 fronts Streeton Drive only and therefore access would have to be from this road.

However as noted above, there is currently no direct access off this road and therefore

access to the site could be difficult.


Sites 3 and 4 are about 1km from the Weston Creek Group Centre. Although defined as

being ‘close’ to the group centre, they are not within walking distance and the community

is unlikely to consider that they are near the centre. However both sites form part of

district playing fields and as such would attract people from Weston Creek and potentially

from a wider area.

Site 3 is a ‘battle-axe’ block with a very small frontage to Walpiri Place which provides

access from Namatijira Place to the parking on the subject site. The site is adjacent to

residential development, district playing fields, schools and churches and the local centre

is nearby.

There is no separation between the residential areas and Site 3 and notwithstanding the

location of the district playing fields, the level of activity that is likely at the site is not

considered compatible with the activity occurring in the surrounding area, which is

essentially a suburban area.

Access to Site 3 would have to be from Walpiri Place. Access would be difficult and it is

unlikely that Walpiri Place could accommodate the traffic the facility would generate,

although further investigations would be required.

Site 4 is close to residential development to the south and to the west and the district

playing fields are located to the east and located in what is essentially a suburban area.

There is minimal separation between the residential areas and Site 4 and the level of

activity likely at the proposed centre is not considered compatible with the surrounding

residential developments.

Access to Site 4 would be from Streeton Drive and although further investigations would

be required, the road could accommodate the traffic the proposed development would

generate. South of its intersection with Hindmarsh Drive, development fronts at least one

side of Streeton Drive.

Site 5 (Molonglo) is not located within the proposed Molonglo Group Centre, however it is

located within the North Wright Community precinct and is adjacent to Stromlo Forest

Park. The proposed facilities at North Wright include community facilities, government

and non-government schools, playing fields and residential development (Figure 12). The

site is separated from future residential areas to the east and north-west.

Stromlo Forest Park is to be developed as a major metropolitan sporting and recreational

facility. Existing development includes cycle and running tracks and design of the district

playing fields has commenced. The master plan, which is currently being reviewed,

includes proposals for additional mixed use trails, event facilities, picnic areas, low cost

visitor accommodation and camping facilities. The proposed aquatic centre facilities are

compatible with these uses.

Access to the facility would be from the proposed Uriara link road.

Summary: Site 1 (Weston) is closest to a group centre but is not adequately separated

from adjacent residential areas. Site 5 (Molonglo) is separated from future

residential areas, will form part of a major recreation hub and the proposed

development is compatible with surrounding existing and proposed

development.


Figure 12: North Wright Concept Plan

5.6 Access to Public Parking

As noted above, it is estimated that the proposed aquatic and recreation centre will

generate a demand for either 460 or 550 spaces depending on the land use zoning.

Access to public parking can reduce the amount of parking that has to be provided on-site,

which in turn reduces development costs and increases the efficiency of the use of land

and of parking resources. The Parking and Vehicular Access General Code provides that in

both the Leisure and Accommodation Zone and the Restricted Access Recreation Zone,

visitor, long stay and short stay parking may be provided on-site or off-site provided that it

is within 200 metres of the facility.

About 80 public parking spaces are located in Dillon Close adjacent to Site 1 and public

parking is located in the group centre. It is not known whether some of the group centre

parking could be used to meet parking generated by the aquatic facility and the parking is

more than 200m from the proposed facility. There is also on-street parking in the

surrounding area, however it is unlikely that the community would support its regular use

for parking associated with the facility. Assuming that only the spaces in Dillon Close

could be used to offset on-site parking requirements, about 350 spaces would be required

on-site.

There is no public off-street parking in the vicinity of Site 2 and it is unlikely that parking

would be permitted along Streeton Drive. Therefore all parking (550 spaces) would have

to be provided on-site.

Site 3 currently includes some public parking, however this is included within the site area

and would be redeveloped. There is on-street parking in the vicinity of the site however it

is unlikely that the community would support this being part of the parking provision for

the aquatic centre. Therefore the majority of parking (460 spaces) would be provided on-

site.


About 100 public parking spaces are located adjacent to Site 4 in Sherratt Place.

Assuming these could be included in the assessment of parking requirements, about 360

spaces would have to be provided on-site. It is unlikely that on-street parking could be

identified to meet parking demand for the reasons above.

Site 5 can accommodate the parking generated by the proposed development (460

spaces).

In addition, the Stromlo Master Plan proposes that parking should be provided in the north

of the Park. The parking is in the vicinity of, but, more than 200 metres from Site 5.

However it may be possible to relocate the parking areas closer to Site 5. Peak parking

demand from Stromlo Park would be at weekends and for events. At other times it could

be available for use by visitors to the aquatic and recreation facility. Provided that the

Stromlo Forest Park parking is well connected with the pool, the amount of parking

provided on-site for the aquatic facility could be reduced. In addition it is probable that

some people may use the facilities at Stromlo Park and the aquatic facility during the same

visit further reducing parking demand. The capacity to share the proposed parking should

be further investigated as part of business planning and/or design studies.

Summary: Provided that the parking at Stromlo Forest Park is well connected and

accessible to the aquatic facility, Site 5 offers the greatest opportunity for

shared parking and a reduction in the number of spaces required on-site.

5.7 Public Transport

In order to maximise accessibility for potential users, the site for the proposed aquatic and

recreation facility should have good access to public transport not only serving Weston

Creek but greater ACT. Two approaches were employed to assess access to public

transport from the five locations:

a review of the distance between bus stops and the site, and

mapping of the bus routes throughout Weston Creek to the Group Centre and Woden

Town Centre to determine relative accessibility.

The Community and Recreation Facilities Location Guidelines General Code states that

indoor recreation facilities should not be more than 400m and preferably 200m from a bus

stop. Sites 1 to 4 are within 400m of a bus stop with Sites 1 and 2 being within 200m of

a bus stop.

Six (6) bus routes currently pass through Weston Creek, all of which pass through or near

the group centre and are in reasonable walking distance of Site 1 (Figure 13). It is also

proposed that the future rapid route will connect Molonglo to the Weston Group Centre via

John Gorton Drive and Streeton Drive and to Tuggeranong via the Tuggeranong Parkway.

In the interim, bus routes will be developed between Molonglo and the group centre and

other part of Weston Creek.

Site 1 would be accessible by bus from all suburbs in Weston Creek and would be on the

proposed rapid route from Molonglo.

Two routes service Sites 2 and 4 and one route services Site 3. The routes servicing Sites

2, 3 and 4 only cover part of Weston Creek. People who did not live on bus routes

servicing these sites would have to travel to the group centre and change buses. Further

an interchange is not located in Weston Creek and the bus routes do not pass a common

point, necessitating some walking between stops. Public transport accessibility to these

sites is limited. Site 2 would be on the proposed rapid transport route from Molonglo,


however Sites 3 and 4 would not be very accessible from Molonglo. Sites 2, 3 and 4 do

not offer equitable public transport access.

Site 5 would be located on the rapid route between Weston Creek and Molonglo. Because

of the metropolitan significance of Stomlo Forest Park, Site 5 is also likely to be located on

interim bus routes connecting the two districts.

Summary: Majority of the sites are within walking distance of public transport. Of the

Weston sites, Site 1 is the most accessible by public transport from Weston

Creek and will be accessible from the southern suburbs of Molonlgo. Site 5

will be accessible to Weston Creek residents and also to all areas of Molonglo.

Figure 13: Bus Routes within the Weston Creek and Molonglo Catchment

5.8 Co-location opportunities

Co-location refers to the location of similar or complementary uses in proximity to each

other. Co-location of activities encourages greater use of the various activities and the

development of synergies that benefit organisations and users. Co-location offers a range

of socio-economic and environmental benefits that cannot be achieved in segregated,

stand alone facilities.


Co-locating the aquatic and recreation centre with other activities will support the viability

of the facility and potentially widen its patronage. Conversely visitors to the aquatic

centre will support other complementary uses in proximity to the facility. The capacity to

maximise the benefits of locating the facility with other complementary uses is an

important consideration in identifying a preferred site.

Each of the sites offers some co-location opportunities, although it is not possible to

quantify these.

Site 1 is located at the edge of the group centre and adjacent to tennis courts, the skate

park and a community centre. A facility in this location could benefit from the large

number of people visiting the shopping centre. Similarly people visiting the aquatic facility

would support the centre.

Site 2 is located in the vicinity of recreational (archery), educational uses and community

services at the former Holder High School. The benefits of co-location with these uses is

considered limited. Both schools adjacent to the site have relatively small enrolments

(total 440 in 2012) with enrolments slowly increasing since 2007. There are no obvious

synergies between the community services or the recreational use and the aquatic centre.

An aquatic facility on Sites 3 and 4 would be adjacent to district playing fields. While

siting the facility on these sites could support the development of synergies between

different district-scale facilities, information is not available about whether co-location of

the aquatic facility and playing fields would encourage greater uses of either. However

the schools adjacent to Site 3 may benefit from co-location with the facility. In 2012

about 1350 students were enrolled at the nearby schools and since 2007 total enrolments

have been relatively stable.

As noted previously, Site 5 is located adjacent to Stromlo Forest Park and the North

Wright community precinct.

Stromlo Forest Park is to be a major metropolitan facility that will host cycling, running

and other events at local, national and international standard and which is to be operated

as a tourist destination. Co-location of the aquatic facility and the Park will enable greater

use of both facilities and reinforce links between them. For example, it would be possible

to hold junior triathlon events at the Park and the aquatic centre if the pool, which would

be used for the swimming event, is sufficiently close to integrate it into the course. These

events attract large numbers of competitors.

Similarly, the North Wright community precinct will include two schools and several

community facilities. Information is not available regarding the projected capacity of the

schools, however given trends in the provision of education facilities in Gungahlin, the

schools are likely to be larger than those in Weston Creek. Further school enrolments are

likely to increase for several years.

Over time the North Wright precinct and Stromlo Forest Park will be widely recognised as

a community and recreational hub.

Summary: All sites offer some opportunities to achieve greater use of the facilities

through co-location. Site 5 (Molonglo) offers the greatest potential to

maximise the benefits of co-location and achieve greater use of the facilities

and potentially increased participation in sport and recreation. Further co-

locating the aquatic facility with Stromlo Forest Park is also likely to provide

an impetus for the early development of additional facilities planned for the

park. The potential benefits of co-location are more tangible for Site 5 than

for any of the other sites.


5.9 Multi-purpose trips

Opportunities for multi-purpose trips to a single destination reduce the number and length

of trips, encourage family and friends to share trips and facilitate more efficient travel. In

general centres offer more opportunities for multi-purpose trips than do non-centre based

locations.

Site 1 (Weston) is close and within walking distance of the group centre. The Weston

Creek Group Centre includes a wide range of activities such as community facilities,

medical and personal services, retailing, restaurants and cafes. Location of the aquatic

centre on Site 1 would potentially increase multi-purpose trips.

Site 2 offers limited opportunities to for multi-purpose trips because it is not co-located

with other major activity generators.

Site 3 (Waramanga) is near the Waramanga Local Centre. The Waramanga Local centre,

offers convenience retailing and some services. While some visitors to the aquatic centre

would combine visits to the facility with visits to the centre, the number of people who

would do this would be limited because of the limited range of services at the centre.

Sites 3 (Waramanga) and 4 (Stirling) are adjacent to district playing fields. The

development of an aquatic facility on either site would establish a recreation hub.

However because the district playing facilities are primarily used at weekends, the

potential for multi-purpose trips may be limited.

The precinct in which Site 5 would be located provides opportunities for users of the

aquatic and recreation facility to combine their visit with visits to the other related

activities. The facilities at Stromlo Forest Park are likely to be used during the week as

well as weekends even though peak use may be at weekends.

Summary: Site 5 has the most potential for related multi-purpose trips whereas Site 1

(Weston) offers the greatest opportunity to combine visits to the facility with

‘unrelated’ trips.

5.10 Visibility

The success of the facility will partly depend on its visibility and the ease with which it

can be identified. Ideally the facility should be on a main street and with a ground floor

presence and good street address.

Site 1 (Weston) fronts Streeton Drive and Hilder Street: a semi-arterial and distributor

respectively. Assuming that a proportion of the trees adjacent to Streeton Drive are

removed, the site would be highly visible from the main north-south route through Weston

Creek that is also the major connection with Molonglo.

Site 2 (Holder) also fronts Streeton Drive and therefore has the same level of visibility as

Site 1. Its visibility is not dependent on removal of trees.

Site 3 (Waramanga) has a very limited frontage to Walpiri Place, which is an access point

off Namatjira Drive. The site is not visible from the surrounding road network, which in

turn forms part of the local road rather than the arterial network.

Site 4 (Stirling) is also located on Streeton Drive and would be visible to passing traffic.


Site 5 would be visible from Uriarra Drive but not from John Gorton Drive, the major route

through Molonglo. However the location of the site within a community and recreational

hub would counterbalance the relative lack of visibility.

Summary: Sites 1 and 2 are the most visible, however the location of Site 5 within a

major activity generating precinct would offset the relative lack of visibility.

5.11 Connections

The Weston Creek sites are connected with the pedestrian and cycle networks connecting

different areas within Weston Creek and also areas beyond. Site 5 would be connected to

the North Wright Community Precinct, Stromlo Forest Park, and Weston Creek in the

longer term. Site 5 will also be integrated with the adjacent existing Stromlo Forest Park

cycling trail. The proposed draft Stromlo Forest Park Master Plan (2012) outlines

connections with other cycle path/trails within the area to create a loop which can be

integrated with the Aquatic Sport and Recreation Facility.

Summary: All sites offer reasonable connections, however Sites 1, 2 and 5 have

greater existing or future connections to the wider pedestrian and cycle

networks.

5.12 Other issue - Impact on open space

Sites 1, 3 and 4 are located in Urban Open Space which as noted previously would have

to be rezoned. The following considers the impact of a reduction in open space.

Weston, Waramanga and Stirling have a relatively high amount of open space ranging from

7.8ha/1,000 population (Weston) to 13.22ha/1,000 population (Stirling). In comparison

there is 6ha/1,000 population of open space in Weston Creek. Therefore the loss of open

space at any site would not have an effect on the amount of open space.

Notwithstanding that the amount of open space is relatively high, it is unlikely that the

community would support a reduction in the amount of open space even if it was to

develop an aquatic facility. Thus it would be preferable to identify a site that did not result

in a reduction in the amount of open space.

Site 1 is not currently irrigated. As noted elsewhere the draft Weston Creek Group Centre

Master Plan notes that the site may be used as a playing field for Molonglo because of the

lack of suitable land in that district. The preferred use is to be reviewed in 20-30 years if

it is not required for that purpose.

Sites 3 and 4 are not irrigated and not currently used as playing fields but are used for

other athletics purposes (throwing events). It would be necessary to identify alternative

sites for these uses if either site was the preferred site.

Sites 2 and 5 are not zoned open space.

Summary: Sites 1, 3 and 4 are located within areas zoned Urban Open Space. While

there is a relatively large amount of open space and the proposed use would

not adversely affect the integrity of the open space network, the community is

unlikely to support a rezoning. Sites 2 and 5 are preferred as they do not have

any impact on the open space network or the level of provision.


5.13 Summary of Site Assessment

Table 7 summarises the site assessment and Table 6 indicates which sites meet each of

the criteria.

Table 6: Assessment criteria and preferred site

Assessment

Site 1

(Weston)

Site 2

(Holder)

Site 3

(Waramanga)

Site 4

(Stirling)

Site 5

(Molonglo)

Territory Plan ?

Land Tenure ?

Site Area

Demography

Catchment Population

Location

Parking

Access

Public Transport

Co-location

opportunities

Multi-purpose trips

Visibility

Connections

Site Assessment | Molonglo/Weston Creek Swimming Facility 34

Table 7: Summary of Site Assessment

Criteria Assessment

Site 1

(B3 S22 Weston)

Site 2

(B19 S45 Holder)

Site 3

(B2 S42 Waramanga)

Site 4

(B93 S24 Stirling)

Site 5

(Molonglo)

Territory

Plan

Zoned PRZ1 – Urban Open

Space.

Indoor recreation facility not

permissible

Territory Plan will have to be

varied

Indoor recreation facility

permissible in PRZ2:

Restricted Access Recreation

Zone

Zoned PRZ1 – Urban

Open Space.


not permissible

Territory Plan will have to

be varied

Zoned PRZ1: Urban

Open Space Zone -

Territory Plan has to be

varied

Zoned commercial

Future Urban Area


permissible

Land Tenure Unleased Territory Land

Unleased Territory Land


Waramanga District

Playing Fields.

Used by ACT Veteran

Athletics


Stirling District Playing

Fields

Site is converted to

Agri-Dark Turf Nursery

Unleased Territory land

Site Area 2.5ha – 3.5ha approx

Sufficient land available

3ha approx


3ha approxSufficient land

available

3.5ha approx


Site area approx. 5 ha


Demography Immediate population ageing

and declining slightly.

Immediate population ageing

and declining slightly

Immediate population

ageing and declining

slightly


ageing and declining

slightly


growing with high

proportion of young

families expected.

Small initial population

base

Catchment

Population

Serves Weston

Creek/Molonglo

Population 42,500 in 2021

Serves Weston

Creek/Molonglo

Population 42,500 in 2021

Serves Weston Creek

Population 21850 in 2021

Serves Weston Creek

and south Molonglo

Population 32,100 in

2021

Serves Weston

Creek/Molonglo

Population 42,500 in

2021

Size and

location

Located near group centre

(250m)

Within residential

neighbourhood

Located 550m from group c

Centre and not associated

with the centre.

Within mixed community use

area

Located 1km from group

centre and not associated

with centre.

Part of district playing

fields and near local shops

and schools

Neighbourhood location.

Located 1km from group

centre

Part of district playing

fields

Within residential

neighbourhood

Open space wedges

create adequate noise

Located within the

proposed North Wright

Community Precinct

which includes school,

community facility, high

density residential and

Stromlo Forest Park.

Major community,


buffer from residential

areas

recreational and tourist

destination

Parking Some opportunities for shared

parking. Require further

investigation

All parking on-site

No opportunities for shared

parking

All parking on-site

No opportunities for

shared parking

All parking on-site

No opportunities for

shared parking

Opportunity for shared

parking with adjacent

facilities.

Potential to reduce on-

site requirements

Access Vehicular access from Hilder

Street

Within walking distance of

some users from residential

developments

Linked Weston Creek

pedestrian network

Vehicular access off Streeton

Drive Site)


suburban residential

development but separated

by stormwater channel and

sub-arterial (underpass

access at north)

Poor vehicular access off

Namatjira Drive


small number of users

Vehicular access of

Streeton Drive

Within walking distance

of some users from

residential developments

Linked to the Weston

Creek pedestrian

network

Vehicular access off

Uriarra Road and John

Gorton Drive connecting

to Weston Creek.

Site is within walking

distance of high density

residential development

Public

Transport

Accessible by public transport

all of Weston Creek by public

transport.

On future rapid transport

route to Molonglo

On local bus route only.

Adjacent to future rapid

transport route

On local bus route only On local bus route only On future rapid transport

route.

Will be on bus routes

connecting Weston

Creek and Molonglo

Co-location

opportunities

Located near group centre –

significant co-location

opportunity

Co-located with local

recreation facilities only.

Limited benefits

Could be integrated with

centre

Co-located with education

and recreation activities.

Co-located with district

playing fields and school.

Limited benefits from co-

location

Some benefits from co-

location with school

Co-located with district

playing fields

Limited benefits from co-

location

Located within North

Wright Community

Precinct and adjacent to

Stromlo Forest Park

Potential for strong

connections and

significant benefits from

co-location

Opportunities for major

events to share facilities

and also increased use of

facilities

Multi-

purpose trips

Multi-purpose trips to facility

and centre

Limited opportunities for

multi-purpose trip.

Opportunity to combine

visit with other

recreational activities


visit with other



visit with other



(enclosed oval games,

cricket, and tennis)

(enclosed oval games,

cricket, tennis)

such as the Stromlo

Forest Park as well as

trips to school and

community facilities.

Multi-purpose hub could

be established

Visibility High level of visibility and

large numbers of passing

vehicles

High level of visibility and

large numbers of passing

vehicles

Poor visibility and low

number of vehicles/

people passing.

High level of visibility

with lower number of

passing vehicles than

north of Hindmarsh Drive

Reasonable visibility but

located within a well

recognised precinct.

Adjacent to the park that

will attract a large

number of people.

Connections Well connected to Weston

Creek Group Centre

pedestrian and cycling

networks

Reasonably connected to

Weston Creek Group Centre


networks directly on site.

Connected to Weston

Creek Group Centre


networks directly on site

Connected to Weston

Creek Group Centre


networks directly on site

Will be connected to the

North Wright Community

Precinct and Stromlo

Forest Park.

The proposed cycle

networks links these

areas with greater

Molonglo and towards

Weston Creek.

age | 37

6 Preferred Location

In summary, all sites have various opportunities and constraints but Site 5 (Molonglo)

offers the greatest opportunity for the development of an Aquatic Sport and Recreation

facility.

Site 5 meets all the requirements as assessed in Table 7. The proposed use is permissible

on the site and the land is not required for other uses. Importantly the site offers the

greatest opportunity to exploit the benefits of co-location. Development of an aquatic and

recreation facility on Site 5 will not only facilitate greater use of the facility and adjacent

facilities but will also encourage greater community participation in sporting and recreation

activities. This is one of the key objectives of the Aquatic Planning Framework and

ACTIVE 2020.

The existing population base is larger in Weston Creek than in Molonglo and Weston Creek

does not have a district swimming pool. These factors could suggest could suggest that

the facility should be located in Weston Creek. However by 2021 the population of

Molonglo is projected to be similar to that of Weston Creek. Whereas the Molonglo

population will continue to increase, that of Weston Creek will remain stable or decline.

Given the population of the two areas and the number of people required to support

different facilities, some facilities will be planned to be shared between Weston Creek and

Molonglo. The proposed aquatic facility is one example where the facilities will be shared.

Unlike the alternative sites within Weston Creek, Site 5 (Molonglo) will add to the

development of a community and recreational hub within the Weston Creek/Molonglo

catchment and will contribute to the character and identify of Molonglo in a way that it

would not in Weston Creek.

Development of Site 5 (Molonglo) provides the opportunity to integrate Stromlo Forest

Park and North Wright Community Precinct, which will bring together the proposed

facility, North Wright Community Precinct, Stromlo Forest Park and the Molonglo River as

a metropolitan precinct.

It is recommended that Site 5 (Molonglo) be identified as the preferred location for the

future Weston Creek/Molonglo Aquatic Sport and Recreation Facility. In identifying this

site as the preferred site, it is assumed that the facility will be integrated with Stromlo

Forest Park and North Wright Community Precinct to create a recreational and community

destination for the catchment and greater metropolitan area. This will require the design

of the aquatic facility to ensure that there are strong pedestrian connections, opportunities

for shared parking are maximised and that the facility has a frontage and address to

Stromlo Forest Park.

It will also be necessary to ensure that the master planning for Stromlo Forest Park also

maximises the potential linkages and connections with the aquatic facility.

age | 38

7 Conclusion

In September 2012 the ACT Government announced $33 million in funding for an indoor

swimming pool in Weston Creek/Molonglo. This report has assessed alternative sites in

the district to identify a preferred location for the proposed pool facility

This assessment has considered possible sites for the location of an Aquatic and

Recreation Facility within the Weston Creek/Molonglo District. The sites selected are

within the vicinity of the Weston Creek Group Centre (1km) and within Molonglo. The

suburbs included in the vicinity are Weston and parts of Holder, Rivett, Stirling and

Waramanga. The proposed Aquatic and Recreation Facility will be a district level facility to

service the Weston Creek and future Molonglo catchment.

Five sites in three locations were identified for assessment within the Weston

Creek/Molonglo catchment. The sites were:




Block 9 Section 24 Stirling (Site 4)

Molonglo North Wright (Site 5)

Of the five sites that were assessed it was concluded that the sites 1 – 4 did not

adequately meet the assessment criteria for various reasons. These included the need to

vary the Territory Plan, the size of the site, the location of the site, co-location

opportunities and impact on open space.

Site 5 (Molonglo – North Wright/Stromlo Forest Park) is the preferred location because it

offers the greatest opportunity to maximise the benefits of co-locating the facility with

other uses. The site will also contribute to the character and attractiveness of Molonglo.

Importantly however the facility will be accessible from Weston Creek.

The report recommends that Site 5 (Molonglo – North Wright/Stromlo Forest Park) be

identified as the site for the proposed Aquatic Sport and Recreation Facility due to its

central catchment location and potential development of a community and recreation

metropolitan destination.

Purdon Associates

January 2013

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age | 40

Documents

EDD site assessment Molonglo / Weston Creek swimming facility