Royal Park’s land returned

In one of the most important milestones in the 139 year history of Royal Park, the site of the former Royal Children’s Hospital was today returned to parkland with the opening of a $5.5 million redevelopment by the City of Melbourne and the Victorian Government.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, Lord Mayor of Melbourne Robert Doyle, Minister for Health Jill Hennessy and Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville today officially opened the reinstated parkland and nature play area.

“We have worked with the community for more than five years to return this important site to public parkland incorporating a nature-based, accessible play space for children. It includes a climbing forest, rocky slope with slides, swings and water and sand play elements,” the Lord Mayor said.

“This is a welcoming gateway to the 170 hectare Royal Park and the design reflects the seven Wurundjeri seasons; honouring the traditional owners’ connection to this land.

“We have created a green oasis with the planting of more than 1100 trees and 17,500 plants, shrubs and grasses as well as new paths and seating and practical facilities including drinking fountains, picnic tables and barbecues.”

The project is a great example of partnership between the City of Melbourne, which contributed $3.25 million, and the Victorian Government, which contributed $2.25 million.

The design of the park was developed as part of a community engagement process over two years, in which more than 660 community members and more than 150 children shared their ideas and vision for the site.

The City of Melbourne’s Junior Ranger Program will run programed activities in the park to encourage interaction with nature.