It is hoped that more frogs will soon be hopping around near Smiths Lake Reserve when Western Australia’s Vincent Town Council creates a living stream running into the lake. The new development is the result of extensive planning and community consultation.
A working group comprising Council and community representatives, formed in August 1999, investigated options for the future of Council owned land in and around Smiths Lake Reserve, including the reserve redevelopment.
The group investigated current zoning arrangements, leases and options for relocation to other facilities within the town, the structure of the pavilion, heritage matters and the redevelopment of land adjoining the site.
Council staff liaised with the Water Corporation examining the development of properties and proposed rezoning, compliance with the Australian rainfall and run off requirements, best management drainage practice and the management of pollutants.
After considering all the options Council agreed to upgrade the reserve, enlarge the lake, demolish the pavilion and houses, remove the pavilion carpark and create a seven lot subdivision. This option provided the most overall benefits to the Town, ratepayers and residents, including revenue of $1 million.
The Council aimed to ensure that the Indigenous significance of Smiths Lake Reserve was acknowledged. The second stage of the proposal will create a living stream on the south western corner of the lake. This will trap matter from road runoff before it enters the main body of the lake.
This area will also be an ideal frog habitat and a proposed bridge over the stream will make an aesthetically pleasing addition to proposed landscaping of the park.
For details contact Executive Manager Technical Services, Rick Lotznicher, on (08) 9273 6006.
