Penguin Recreation Ground Master Planning Project 2016

Central Coast Council, TAS

What the project was about

With the development of the new Dial Regional Sports Complex, and the existing users of the Penguin Recreation Ground being relocated to the new facility, a need to develop a new vision and master plan for the Penguin Recreation Ground was identified. The site has great value given its proximity to the town centre and the strong visitor interest in the Penguin township. The process would determine the most appropriate use for the Penguin Recreation Ground and guide future development.

What we needed to do

Engagement Plus assisted the Central Coast Council in identifying the best use for the old recreation ground site through a comprehensive community engagement program involving a place-making approach. Community participation in the Master Planning process was vital to the success of the project and Council was keen to see strong participation by the community in developing the vision and future uses of the Penguin Recreation Ground.  

Some preliminary consultation commenced in August 2015 and included forums and a postcard campaign which gathered information from the local community on what they thought would be the best use for the site. Engagement Plus considered the social and economic profile for the area and existing strategies and plans relevant to the Penguin township and the Central Coast region, to complement the community engagement undertaken.

Several strategies were used to gain community participation, input on ideas for the development of the site and to obtain feedback throughout each stage of the development of the Master Plan. Such engagement activities included a postcard campaign, the establishment of a ‘Think Tank’ to guide the process, Rapid Appraisal Site Tours, fact sheets, family fun days, feedback forms and surveys, static displays, online engagement and targeted workshops and interviews.

What was achieved

After comprehensive community engagement an exciting Master Plan for the site was developed and endorsed by Council. The innovative Master Plan incorporates civic and community facilities, retail and recreation spaces, architect designed open space and way-finding, improved streetscapes and accessibility as well as a residential housing component to assist in funding the development of the public infrastructure components.