BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN · Black Rock House was built in 1856 by Charles Ebden, former...

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN

Thompson Berrill Landscape Design P/L17 May 2016

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN 1

PAGECONTENTS

Introduction

Land Management

Vehicle Access

Pedestrian and Cycle Access

Recreational Facilities

Cultural Heritage

Geology and Coastal Processes

Flora and Fauna

Flora and Fauna Management

Summary Implementation Plan

Black Rock Gardens Detail Plan

Draft Implementation Schedule

References

APPENDIXCommunity Consultation Report

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The Black Rock Foreshore Masterplan guides design, priorities and staging of on ground works on the foreshore between Arkaringa Crescent and Fourth Street including public open space associated with Black Rock House. The plan implements the recommendations of Council endorsed strategic plans including the Bayside Open Space Strategy (2012) and the Bayside Coastal Management Plan (BCMP) (2014).

The Bayside Open Space Strategy (2012) classifies the Black Rock Foreshore as municipal open space highlighting its importance for both local Bayside residents and regional visitors from outside the municipality. Consistent with the recommendations of the strategy, the provision of facilities at Black Rock Foreshore will aim to cater for visits in excess of two hours in duration by providing adequate shade, car parking, public toilets, picnic facilities and drinking fountains serviced by a network of accessible sealed and unsealed walking and cycling paths.

The Bayside Coastal Management Plan (2014), adopted by Council in 2014, included extensive consultation with the Bayside community and various clubs/affiliations that has informed the development of this draft masterplan. The BCMP in partnership with Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) provides the strategic direction for actions and works proposed within the draft masterplan. The key objectives for the masterplan include:

• Ensure protection of the foreshore environment particularly areas of remnant coastal vegetation and habitats for native wildlife.

• Identify and protect areas of cultural heritage significance.

• Identify and improve access and safety on the designated Coast Walking Path, maintain existing character while sustainably managing for increasing future use.

• Identify opportunities to rationalise and revegetate informal tracks to reduce impacts on environmental and cultural heritage values.

• Liaise with DELWP to identify and improve the effectiveness of the sea wall along the foreshore promenade.

• Incorporate appropriate historical interpretation of Old Melbourne Gaol inscriptions in consultation with Heritage Victoria as part of the Bayside Coastal Arts Trail.

• Review and prioritise replacement of existing toilet facilities in accordance with Council policy.

• Redeveloping the Black Rock Life Saving Club building to improve its function, amenity, appearance and consider integration of public change room and toilet facilities.

• Improve vehicle and pedestrian access and safety to and around the Black Rock Life Saving Club precinct.

• Improve all ability access to the beach, paths, toilets, parking, picnic area, lookout points and club based facilities.

• Support improved public access and multiuse of club based facilities.

The masterplan is being prepared to guide future on ground works priorities and staging on Council managed land over the next ten years.

INTRODUCTION

Existing Black Rock Playground


Figure 1 Context PlanBayside Coastal Management Plan 2014

LAND MANAGEMENTThe Black Rock Foreshore Precinct is Crown Land with Bayside City Council having committee of management responsibility in accordance with the requirements of the Crown Land Reserves Act (1978), Coastal Management Act (1995) and Bayside Coastal Management Plan (2014). The Masterplan is being prepared to guide future on ground works priorities and staging on Council managed land. As part of this study area, Black Rock House has been included.

EXISTING BUILDINGS AND LEASE AREASThe Victorian Coastal Strategy (2014) Building Policy promotes coastal dependant uses, sustainability, equity and community need in relation to the development and management of buildings on the coast. There are two leased buildings within the study area.

The Black Rock Life Saving Club was built in the early 1920s and requires a major upgrade to meet the safe and efficient operation of the Club.

The Black Rock House Friends Group (formed in 1979) assists Bayside City Council to manage Black Rock House located on 34 Ebden Avenue, inland from the foreshore.

Management and any future redevelopment of the existing building and lease area on the foreshore precinct is guided by the requirements of the Victorian Coastal Strategy (2014), Council Policy and the recommendations of the Bayside Coastal Management Plan (2014). These include:• Encourage consideration of joint partnerships and increased public access in any

redevelopment proposals for aging infrastructure.• Ensure no net increase in building footprint and seek rationalisation of existing buildings where

possible in any redevelopment works.

BLACK ROCK LIFE SAVING CLUBBlack Rock Life Saving Club was formed in early 1928 to provide life saving services on Black Rock beach from Quiet Corner to Arkaringa Point. The Black Rock Life Saving Club facilitates patrol, training and social events for its club members and the public. The main purpose of the life saving club is to keep the beaches safe.

The building is situated in the most suitable location in this section of foreshore to ensure panoramic views from the north to the south end of the beach.

The building has been renovated and expanded since initial construction in 1932. The current structure and facilities are in need of major upgrade/replacement. This includes improving all ability access and providing adequate space and facilities for the safe and efficient running of the club patrol activities and operations.

The State government, through Life Saving Victoria, is responsible for life saving clubs and associated facilities.

BLACK ROCK HOUSEBlack Rock House was built in 1856 by Charles Ebden, former Governor of Victoria. The house was originally built as a holiday house and was also used as a vice-regal retreat (from 1858-1861), with the original 122 acres extending to directly adjoin the foreshore. Today, the house no longer has beach frontage, retaining only a narrow access way between the garden and Beach Road.

Black Rock House is currently managed by Bayside City Council with assistance from the Friends Group and is used for community events. A volunteer program assists with group guided tours and maintaining and preserving the historical property.

BLACK ROCK SEA WALLThe existing sea wall is managed directly by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP).

Black Rock Life Saving Club

Black Rock House

HO703

HO148


LAND MANAGEMENT

Figure 2 Existing Land Management

The foreshore between Arkaringa Crescent and Fourth Street is Crown land and is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ) in the Bayside Planning Scheme.

HERITAGE OVERLAYS (HO)• Black Rock House is Council owned land. The site is also listed on the

Victorian Heritage Register Ref No. H216. • HO703: Sandringham Beach Park – Beach Road, Sandringham.• HO148: Black Rock House – 30-36 Ebden Avenue, Black Rock.

Sandringham Beach Park (including the northern section of Black Rock foreshore) is of Regional significance as a predominantly intact belt of native coastal vegetation, and associated gardens. The site contributes significantly to the surrounding landscape, and to the heritage and amenity value of the region.

Remnant belts of native vegetation exists along the length of Sandringham Park, listed on the Register of the National Estate. These belts are dominated mainly by Coast Banksia (Banksia integrifolia) and Coast Tea Tree (Leptospermum laevigatum).

Requirements include: no reduction of native vegetation to accommodate further car parking; no removal of existing vegetation or garden specimens or replacement with inappropriate species.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT OVERLAYS (DDO)The Design Development Overlay (DDO1) relating to building height controls on the coast applies to the whole of the foreshore reserve. Buildings must not exceed two storeys and must comply with requirements as outlined in the Victorian Coastal Strategy (2014) and the Bayside Coastal Management Plan (2014). These include:• Investigate opportunities for multi-use of existing

buildings and in any redevelopment proposals.• No net increase in building footprint and

seek rationalisation of existing buildings where possible in any redevelopment works.

• Prioritise coastal dependent uses.

EROSION MANAGEMENT OVERLAY (EMO)Erosion Management Overlay (EMO) covers areas prone to erosion, landslip and other land disturbance processes. The EMO applies to the entire Black Rock Foreshore Precinct.

VEGETATION PROTECTION OVERLAY (VPO)Native vegetation at Black Rock Foreshore is included in the Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO1) in the Bayside Planning Scheme. The VPO applies to the entire Black Rock Foreshore Precinct.

4BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN

VEHICLE ACCESS

Foreshore Path at B16 Car park

Beach Road Bay Trail

Black Rock Life Saving Club entry from Beach Road

B16 Car park

Black Rock Life Saving Club beach access ramp

B16 CAR PARK – EXISTING CONDITIONSThe recently upgraded sealed B16 car park services both the playground and beach users with overflow parking out onto Beach Road. There are currently 33 spaces and one disabled space and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design system. This car park adequately caters to the existing use and there are no plans for upgrade.

BEACH ROAD AT BLACK ROCK LIFE SAVING CLUBEmergency and maintenance vehicle access is currently provided via the Black Rock Life Saving Club ramp from Beach Road. Parking on Beach Road is time limited (No stopping between 6-10am everyday) and the nearest alternative car park is Black Rock shopping centre or B16 car park at Half Moon Bay.

Currently, there is no provision of disabled parking near the Black Rock Life Saving Club. The need for this may increase if the proposed upgrade to the beach access ramp occurs and also for emergency/maintenance vehicle access for Beach Road.


PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE ACCESS

Black Rock Foreshore Coast Walking Path

Bay Trail outside Black Rock Life Saving Club Black Rock House ramp

Black Rock sea wall

Second Street ramp

B16 Car park ramp

BAY TRAIL - SHARED PATHThe 2.5m wide Bay Trail provides continuous off road access for both pedestrians and cyclists travelling along Beach Road.

COAST WALKING PATHThe unsealed Coast Walking Path runs parallel with Beach Road, winding its way through the coastal bushland offering elevated views out to the Bay. It varies in width and is increasingly popular with walkers and joggers of all ages and abilities. Cyclists are discouraged from using the trail to avoid congestion and to minimise impacts on sensitive coastal vegetation and habitat values.

BEACH ACCESS RAMPS AND STAIRSThere are six beach access ramps and four sets of beach access stairs, none of which are compliant with the current universal access standard as defined in AS1428.

The concrete ramp at Black Rock Life Saving Club is 3.0m wide and provides pedestrian and maintenance/emergency vehicle access to the beach.

Three ramps connect to the sea wall path with approximately 1 in 6 grades with no handrails. Modification of these ramps to achieve a 1 in 14 grade with landings every 9.0m will necessitate lengthening them by more than 80m. This is not practical given the highly erosive nature of the site and requirements of the Vegetation Protection Overlay.

SEA WALL (FORESHORE PROMENADE) AND HISTORICAL HEADSTONESThe bluestone sea wall extends from the Black Rock Gardens ramp and ends at the junction of Central Avenue and Beach Road. The sea wall was developed to protect Beach Road and the concrete path provides access around Quiet Corner.

Sections of the sea wall have been built using original bluestone from the Old Melbourne Gaol. The inscriptions on stones are visible in the vicinity of B16 ramp.

The sea wall has been subject to major repairs in 2009 and requires design review in the context of climate change to protect sections of foreshore currently subject to erosion. This is currently being considered by DELWP.

Existing toilet facilities in Black Rock Gardens

Black Rock Life Saving Club The ‘Beacon’


RECREATIONAL FACILITIES

BLACK ROCK LIFE SAVING CLUBBlack Rock Life Saving Club (BRLSC) was formed in early 1928 to provide life saving services on Black Rock beach from Quiet Corner to Arkaringa Point. Life saving services are a State government responsibilities administrated by Life Saving Victoria.

The Black Rock Life Saving Club facilitates patrol, training and social events for its club members and the public. The main purpose of the life saving club is to keep the beaches safe. As such, the club is an asset to the Black Rock Foreshore community.

PUBLIC TOILETSThere are two existing public toilets on site, located between the Black Rock Life Saving Club and playground. Upgrade/replacement is identified as one of the top priorities for these toilets in the Bayside Public Toilet Strategy (2012) and Bayside Coastal Management Plan (2014) due to lack of lighting and narrow entry restricting disabled access to the toilets.

Currently the public toilets are used by both playground visitors and beach users while located away from both activity areas.

The Bayside Public Toilet Strategy (2012) proposes removal of the two toilet blocks to be replaced with one building containing one or more unisex toilets to accommodate all ability access.

The recommendation in this plan is to move the new public toilet facility closer to the playground area providing sealed all ability access from B16 Carpark, and clear visual links for visitors on the Bay Trail.

To overcome the gap in provision of public toilets on the foreshore between Ricketts Point and Black Rock, the Bayside Public Toilet Strategy (2012) suggested installing a new public toilet facility on the foreshore opposite 330-331 Beach Road, Black Rock. The opportunity to establish a toilet facility in this location was reviewed and is not supported by DELWP or community consultation.

The aim for BRLSC is to provide a safe, friendly and welcoming environment where all members can interact and enjoy the benefits of healthy outdoor activities to learn about water safety, first aid, and resuscitation, develop an awareness of the beach and the aquatic environment, in a manner that is educational and embraces tolerance and inclusion.

The building is situated in an ideal location along the foreshore as it has panoramic views from the north to south end of the beach.

As the original Clubhouse was first constructed in 1932, the structure and facilities now are extremely run down and in need of upgrade/replacement. The building also requires redesign as there is not enough room for equipment/fuel storage. The building does not meet current building codes which limits the clubs ability to attract new members. The Clubhouse cannot be relocated further north without significant removal of intact coastal vegetation and relocation south moves the facility away from the main swimming beach. The site is also in a highly erosive, exposed windy and weather prone location, however relocation closer to Beach Road potentially impacts on key functions including beach surveillance.

The Victorian Coastal Strategy (2014) Building Policy promotes coastal dependant uses, sustainability, equity and community need in relation to the development and management of buildings on the coast. Black Rock Life Saving Club is a coastal dependant use.

Management and any future redevelopment of the existing building and lease area on the foreshore precinct is guided by the requirements of the Victorian Coastal Strategy (2014), Council Policy and the recommendations of the Bayside Coastal Management Plan (2014). These include:

• Encourage consideration of joint partnerships and increased public access in any redevelopment proposals for aging infrastructure.

• Ensure no net increase in building footprint and seek rationalisation of existing buildings where possible in any redevelopment works.

• These aims are achievable on the existing site and replacement of the building will improve access to facilities, safety and landscape amenity for all foreshore users.

BLACK ROCK PLAYGROUNDThe Black Rock Playground has undergone redevelopment in 2014. The playground is well used by visitors and local residents.

The playground is located between B16 Carpark and Black Rock Garden and is accessible by the Coast Walking Path and also from Beach Road.

There are two BBQs, one drinking fountain and ample seating and a shared pathway which joins to the coastal walking path towards the Black Rock Gardens.

BLACK ROCK GARDENSThe playground is also located right next to the Black Rock Gardens which allows groups to extend social activities in the open space area.

A sculpture by Faustas Sadauskas called ‘Beacon’ was commissioned by Council for the gardens in 2003 and forms part of the Bayside Coastal Arts Trail.

Black Rock Playground

Black Rock House entrance from Beach RoadOld and new bluestone sea wall at Black Rock Gardens ramp

Historical headstones located at the base of B16 ramp


CULTURAL HERITAGEBLACK ROCK HOUSEBlack Rock House was built in 1856 by Charles Ebden, former Governor of Victoria. The house was originally built as a holiday house and remained in the Ebden family until 1911 during which it was rented out and used as a guest house and private dwelling.

The original 122 acres was gradually sold off and the house lost its beach frontage retaining only the track out from the garden to what is now Beach Road.

There have been two major periods of renovation, in 1931 under the ownership of Professor Peter MacCallum and in 1974 when it was purchased by the City of Sandringham. The gardens feature magnificent 150 year old Moreton Bay Fig trees planted when the home was built.

Later restorations have focussed on restoring the house as it was in the 1860s and the home and garden are protected by a Heritage Overlay in the Bayside Planning Scheme and included on the Victorian Heritage Register, the Register of the National Estate and classified by the National Trust.

Black Rock House is currently managed by the Bayside City Council with assistance from a dedicated Friends group formed in 1979. It is used for community events and a volunteer program assists with group guided tours and maintaining and preserving the historical property.

Recommendations include: • Support existing community use of the house and continue ongoing

protection of heritage values.• Increase public use of the adjoining gardens as open space, providing two

new seats (one sun and one shade) overlooking the lawn.• Retain public access through from Ebden Avenue and the garden to

Beach Road and the foreshore. Liaise with VicRoads to establish a kerb ramp on the foreshore side at Beach Road to improve universal access at the informal crossing point.

• Review eixisting signage.

SEA WALL AND PROMENADEThe sea wall is owned and managed by DELWP and the beach access ramps and stairs are managed by Council.

The existing sea wall path extends over 900 metres from Black Rock Gardens, south around Quiet Point to Ricketts Point Beach. The path is well used and it provides excellent access and views to the bay for persons with limited mobility. It is also popular for fishing on the north side of the designated Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary.

The bluestone sea wall has a concrete base and cap. There have been repairs/extensions completed at the northern Black Rock Gardens end using roughly laid bluestone pitchers which detract from the historic sections of the wall formed using larger blocks from the Old Melbourne Gaol. The path is 2.0m wide and various forms of natural rock retaining wall, some more than 2.0m wide, have been used to stabilise the eroding cliff line which comes under frequent wave attack in high tide storm events. Continued sea level rise under current climate change modelling will likely require significant extension of foreshore protection works to protect the Black Rock Life Saving Club and Beach Road.

HERITAGE OVERLAYAboriginal people’s occupation of what is now known as the Black Rock Foreshore dates back many thousands of years and the area contains registered cultural heritage sites (middens). These sites and all other cultural heritage places are protected under the provisions of the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act (2006). The Act recognises Aboriginal people as the primary guardians of their cultural heritage and has established a process for Aboriginal groups to apply to be registered as Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs).

Other historical features of the foreshore include the bluestone sea walls and the harbour breakwater. The Black Rock Foreshore has other cultural values such as a long history of beach and holiday use and these features and uses need to be considered in any works.

Indigenous and European cultural heritage must be protected during masterplan implementation, and on sites where major ground breaking work are involved a due diligence Cultural Heritage Assessment will be required.

HERITAGE OVERLAY (HO)

To conserve and enhance heritage places of natural or cultural significance and to ensure development does not adversely affect their significance.• HO703 Beach Road Sandringham

including tree controls.• HO148 Black Rock House.

Figure 3

View towards Quiet Corner

View of Black Rock Foreshore from Quiet Corner


GEOLOGY AND COASTAL PROCESSESThe foreshore cliffs at Black Rock between Half Moon Bay and Quiet Corner are highly erosive and covered by an Erosion Management Overlay in the Bayside Planning Scheme.

The cliffs have been extensively modified and filled as part of works on Beach Road, however in several areas the soft Red Bluff sands are visible and have been cut back to expose the harder Black Rock sandstone, mostly visible at Quiet Corner.

The beach at Black Rock is subject to summer accretion with dominant drift north from November to April and winter depletion when sand moves back south towards Quiet Corner (refer Figure 4).

There are no artificial groynes however this section of foreshore has been subject to severe and rapid erosion following major storms. The most notable of these in 1935 cut the cliff back 6 metres, leading to the establishment of the current sea wall (refer Figure5).

The sea wall is constructed from bluestone recovered from the demolished Old Melbourne Gaol. The construction of the sea wall has increased scour and the beach frequently disappears after storm events. The sea wall itself has been severely damaged and repaired several times. The most recent major repairs were by the DSE, now the Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning (DELWP), in 2010.

DELWP are currently investigating options to improve the effectiveness of the existing sea wall to reduce overtopping and erosion of the Beach Road embankment and stone retaining walls at Black Rock - Quiet Corner.

The Black Rock Masterplan recommends the following is also considered as part of these investigations:• Options to improve long term foreshore stability in front of the Black Rock

Life Saving Club including provision of improved all ability path access onto the existing sea wall.

• Removal and replacement of the existing more recently constructed section of ad hoc sea wall repairs at the Black Rock Gardens ramp.

• Protection of the historic Old Melbourne Gaol stone inscriptions.• Options to improve integration of existing stormwater outfalls as part of any

new works.

Figure 4 The Sandringham Environment Series - No.2 Geology and Landforms of Beach Park:

An Excursion Guide, 1987

Figure 5 The Sandringham Environment Series - No.2 Geology and Landforms of Beach Park:

An Excursion Guide, 1987

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1VEGETATION PROTECTION OVERLAY (VPO)

View of Black Rock Foreshore from Quiet Corner1

Black Rock Playground cliff edge2

Existing vegetation along Black Rock foreshore3

Gordon Crescent ramp/stairs4

View towards Black Rock Life Saving Club5


FLORA AND FAUNA

Figure 6

The majority of the Black Rock Foreshore contains remnant coastal vegetation in Bayside. This comprises Coastal Dune Grassland (EVC 879) and Coastal Headland Scrub (EVC 161) providing important habitat and refuge for a range of indigenous native birds, bats, mammals, reptiles and insects in the otherwise built urban environment.

Native vegetation at Black Rock Foreshore is included in the Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO1) in the Bayside Planning Scheme. The aim of the overlay is to protect and preserve trees and areas of significant vegetation, implementing key requirements of the State Planning Policy Framework and ensuring any new development minimises loss of native vegetation. The overlay and ongoing Council management of the foreshore aim to maintain and enhance habitat and habitat corridors and to encourage the regeneration of native vegetation. A Permit is required to remove vegetation other than as part of weed control, fire prevention, public safety and road safety management actions.

The Bayside Native Vegetation Works Program Stage 2 has identified the existing vegetation and management issues with a three year monitored list of actions for a limited section of indigenous vegetation in Black Rock South. This program covers the indigenous vegetation within a small part of this Precinct. Other areas of indigenous vegetation should also be incorporated into the management of vegetation.

There has been extensive historical and ongoing community involvement in protection and enhancement of native vegetation and habitat along Black Rock Foreshore. Black Rock and Sandringham Conservation Association (BRASCA), Friends of Native Wildlife (FONW) and the local community all actively assist Council in rubbish removal, weed control and monitoring of flora and fauna.

The vegetation mapping included in this masterplan has been completed with assistance from BRASCA. Key issues identified by BRASCA and FONW include the narrow width of the foreshore reserve and the close proximity of the Coast Walking Path to the Bay Trail, which increases the impacts of cycling on fragile coastal vegetation.


FLORA AND FAUNA MANAGEMENT4 Continue staged revegetation in consultation with

local community groups’ e.g BRASCA. Ensure use of indigenous species grown from locally sourced seed consistent with the prevailing Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC). Carefully plan revegetation, modifying the species mix within the EVC if required to maintain and enhance biodiversity values. Ensure establishment of long term sustainable and manageable planting in areas with existing views or where required for ongoing public access or other use.

5 Undertake ongoing monitoring of fox, rabbits and feral cat numbers initiating targeted control programs where required.

6 Develop interpretative signage regarding indigenous flora and fuana found on the Black Rock Foreshore.

1 Focus specialist weed control and management resources into areas with good quality remnant indigenous vegetation implementing recommendations as identified in the Bayside Native Vegetation Native Works Program.

2 Close and revegetate informal access tracks, eroded escarpments and untreated pocket spaces to offset the impacts of ongoing requirement for vegetation pruning and removal to maintain sightlines for safety along the Coast Walking Path and beach access ramps.

3 Ensure new cliff and escarpment fencing includes anchor points to improve safety in future weed control and revegetation efforts in these difficult to access areas.

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NOTE: Refer to Implementation Schedule on Page 14-16 for numbering reference

11 BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLANSummary Implementation Plan

NOTE: Refer to Implementation Schedule on Page 14-16 for numbering reference

12 BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLANBlack Rock Gardens Detail Plan

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN

DRAFT MASTERPLAN WORKS SUMMARY

HIGH MEDIUM LOW

$3,359,800 $20,000 $0 $329,800 $3,050,000

N/A

$55,000 $191,250 $58,750 $305,000 $0

$19,500 $280,000 $22,600 $322,100 $0

$70,000 $12,000 $0 $82,000 $0

$0 $90,000 $0 $90,000 $0

$0 $5,000 $5,500 $10,500 $0

$3,504,300 $598,250 $86,850 $1,139,400 $3,050,000

CONTINGENCIES (20%) $227,880 $610,000

$1,367,280 $3,660,000

BEACH ACCESS

FORESHORE PROTECTION(scope and cost determined by DELWP)

SUBTOTAL BLACK ROCK FORESHORE WORKS

BEACH ROAD AND BAY TRAIL

TOTAL BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN - CAPITAL IMPLEMENTATION WORKS

NOTE: No costs are included for DELWP works associated with Foreshore stabilisation and modification to the existing sea wall.

BLACK ROCK HOUSE

TOTALOTHERSSTUDY AREA (BCC)

BLACK ROCK LIFE SAVING CLUB(Life Saving Victoria)

BLACK ROCK GARDENS

COAST WALKING PATH

TOTALBCC

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE LANDSCAPE MASTER PLAN DRAFT IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Prepared by TBLD for City of Bayside October 2015 1

NOTE: No costs are included for DELWP works asscoiated with Foreshore stabilisation and modification to the existing sea wall.


IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULEThe following section provides an overview of the indicative capital costs to implement key improvements and actions identified in the Draft Masterplan. Draft priorities have been allocated to enable consideration of staging of works subject to confirmation of funding availability.

The large number of facilities and complexity of replacing older asset at Black Rock Foreshore mean that staging of works will be required. The staging and timing for delivery of the works is subject to external agency funding and implementation of some works may need to be delayed or bought forward, i.e due to the need for urgent maintenance or as part of cost-effective delivery of other projects. In all cases priorities should be viewed as a guide only.

(H) High (1-3 years)

(M) Medium (4-6 years)

(L) Low (7-10 years)

(O) Ongoing (part of current programs/works)

Please note all works estimates are for preliminary planning purposes, prepared without access to survey and detailed design and are a guide only.

NOTE: The Adoption of the Black Rock Foreshore Masterplan by Council does not constitute a decision to proceed with any identified opportunities. It provides a long-term concept to guide decision making and will be subject to future decisions and funding considerations by Council.

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLANIMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE V6 Prepared by TBLD P/L for Bayside City Council 05.05.16. Note preliminary cost estimates are for planning purposes only and subject to survey and detailed design.

Item No. Plan Ref Action Description Amount Item Rate Cost PriorityAgency

Responsiblefor approval

AgencyResponsiblefor funding

RelatedActions

1.1 6Demolish the existing Black Rock Life Saving Club building and undertake bulk earthworks to extend the ground floor space without increasing the overall building footprint.

1 Item $50,000 High BCC LSV 1.2 and 1.3

1.2 6New Black Rock Life Saving Club. Two storey building slightly lower in height than the existing building with accessible public toilet/change facilities incorporated without increasing the building footprint.

1 Item $3,000,000 High BCC LSV 1.1 and 1.3

1.3 7

Reconstruct the BRLSC Ramp access to the beach. Provide 1 in 14 grade all ability access, stainless steel handrails to both sides and improved maintenance/emergency vehicle access to the beach and ground floor of the new BRLSC building from Beach Road.

65 lin.m $4,000 $260,000 High DELWP BCC 1.1, 1.2 and 2.1

1.4 19

Undertake weed control and revegetation of the steep foreshore embankment below the BRLSC and beach access ramp. Works are to be undertaken as part of site restoration after completion of the new building and beach access ramp.

830 m2 $60 $49,800 High BCC BCC 1.2, 1.3 and 2.1

1.5 8

Maintain the existing beach shower. In the longer term relocate the beach access shower closer to the new Black Rock Life Saving Club. Close and revegetate the existing stair connection to beach following upgrade of the new ramp.

1 Item $20,000 Medium BCC BCC 1.3

Subtotal Black Rock Life Saving Club $3,379,800

2.1 10DELWP to investigate options to stablise the foreshore in front of the Black Rock Life Saving Club and improve all ability access to the existing sea wall.

155 lin.m N/C High DELWP DELWP 1.3 and 1.4

2.2 10

DELWP to investigate options to increase protection for the existing sea wall. Reduce wave action via mitigation works north of Quiet Corner to reduce overtopping and erosion of the Beach Road embankment and retaining walls. Works to include repair of existing rock retaining walls and improved integration drainage outfalls.

1,000 lin.m N/C High DELWP DELWP 2.1, 2.3 and 2.4

2.3 20Remove and replace the existing section of adhoc sea wall repairs at the Black Rock Gardens ramp. Works to be completed in a style consistent with upgrades for the new works.

25 lin.m N/C High DELWP DELWP 2.2

2.4 11Liaise with Heritage Victoria to record and protect the historic Old Melbourne Gaol stone inscriptions in works to reduce erosion along the existing sea wall and develop interpretive signage.

1 Item N/C High DELWP HV 2.2

2.5 3Install signage at each beach access point indicating ramp grade/condition with directions to better access points as staged upgrades are completed.

20 No. $500 $10,000 High BCC BCC

2.6 4

Retain and maintain the existing timber stairs opposite Gordon Crescent. Commence design and planning permit approvals as required to enable replacement when the existing stairs eventually become structually unsound.

1 Item $15,000 High BCC BCC

BLACK ROCK LIFE SAVING CLUB

FORESHORE SEA WALL AND BEACH ACCESS (by DELWP)

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE LANDSCAPE MASTER PLAN DRAFT IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Prepared by TBLD for City of Bayside May 2016 BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN 14

IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE

IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLANIMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE V6 Prepared by TBLD P/L for Bayside City Council 05.05.16. Note preliminary cost estimates are for planning purposes only and subject to survey and detailed design.




RelatedActions

2.7 4Replace the existing Gordon Cres stairs retaining existing characterincluding integrated seating/rest points. Ensure the new stairs minimise removal of vegetation and potential impacts on cultural heritage values.

1 Itemworks $150,000 Medium BCC BCC

2.8 3 B16 Car park beach access ramp. Establish stainless steel handrails to AS1428 on both sides. 120 lin.m $250 $30,000 High BCC BCC 2.2 and 2.5

2.9 3 Black Rock Gardens beach access ramp. Establish stainless steel handrails to AS1428 on both sides. 95 lin.m $250 $23,750 Medium BCC BCC 2.2 and 2.5

2.10 3 Black Rock House beach access ramp. Establish stainless steel handrails to AS1428 on both sides. 70 lin.m $250 $17,500 Medium BCC BCC 2.2 and 2.5

2.11 3 Seaview Crescent beach access ramp. Establish stainless steel handrails to AS1428 on both sides. 105 lin.m $250 $26,250 Low BCC BCC 2.5

2.12 3 Second Street beach access ramp. Establish stainless steel handrails to AS1428 on both sides. 65 lin.m $250 $16,250 Low BCC BCC 2.2, 2.5 and

3.4

2.13 5 Retain Quiet corner stairs. Establish stainless steel handrails to AS1428 on both sides. 65 lin.m $250 $16,250 Low BCC BCC 2.5

Subtotal Foreshore Sea Wall and Beach Access $305,000

3.1 14 &21

Remove and replace the two existing toilet blocks with a new single structure all ability access toilet facility. Design to be consistent with Victorian Coastal Design Guidelines with no nett increase in building footprint.


3.2 23Replace the handrail on the coast path between the B16 car park, playground and new toilet facility. Establish handrail and anchor points for weed control and revegetation access on the steep embankment.

60 lin.m $500 $30,000 Medium BCC BCC 3.1 and 3.3

3.3 24

Undertake weed control and revegetation with low indigenous coastal vegetation to maintain views from the coast walk over on the steep embankment near the playground. Works to be completed following upgrade of the path and handrail to ensure safety for works and ongoing maintenance.


3.4 13 Undertake staged upgrade of picnic tables and seats through Black Rock Gardens to improve all ability access 6 No. $3,000 $18,000 High BCC BCC

1 Item $1,500 High BCC BCC

1 Item $10,000 Low BCC BCC 2.7

3.6 12 Formalise unsealed path edging and width at max 2.5m through Black Rock Gardens and reinstate grass where possible. 210 lin.m $60 $12,600 Low BCC BCC

Subtotal Black Rock Gardens $322,100

BLACK ROCK GARDENS

25Install fencing to prevent public access to the concrete roof of the former gardeners shed at the top of the Black Rock Gardens beach access ramp. Longer term remove and revegetate.

3.5


IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLANIMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE V6 Prepared by TBLD P/L for Bayside City Council 05.05.16. Note preliminary cost estimates are for planning purposes only and subject to survey and detailed design.




RelatedActions

4.1 2 Establish timber chicanes and signage to restrict cyclist access to the unsealed coast walking path where located near the Bay Trail. 8 No. $2,500 $20,000 High BCC BCC 2.5 and 4.3

4.2 -

Maintain a compacted granitic gravel/sand walking path up to 2.5m in width (site specific), inclusive of pruning to either side. In areas where the concrete sea wall promenade can be accessed maintain the existing path width using natural logs to define the edge of path where it is unfenced.

1 Item $10,000 High BCC BCC 4.1 and 4.4

4.3 1Establish new timber post and cable fencing at popular cliff top lookout points. Undertake fencing in conjunction with coastal revegetation to assist cliff stabilty.

2 No. $20,000 $40,000 High BCC BCC

4.4 1 & 15 Provide additional seats and picnic tables at lookout points. 2 No. $6,000 $12,000 Medium BCC BCC 4.3

4.5 - Continue ongoing weed control and indigenous coastal revegetation in collaboration with local community groups. 1 Item N/C Ongoing BCC BCC

Subtotal Coast Walking Paths $82,000

5.1 17 Liaise with VicRoads to establish kerb ramps on Beach Road at popular informal crossing points. 4 No. $2,500 $10,000 Medium VICROADS BCC 6.3

5.2 9

Establish two disabled and four standard parallel parking bays on Beach Road opposite the Black Rock Life Saving Club. Slightly realign the Bay Trail and indent the parking bays to enable them to be used all day without increasing risk to cyclists on Beach Road.

1 Item $80,000 Medium VICROADS BCC 1.2 and 1.3

Subtotal Beach Road and Bay Trail $90,000

6.1 - Renew and upgrade existing signage at Black Rock House 1 item $5,000 Medium BCC BCC

6.2 16 Establish two bench seats in the gardens over looking the grass area providing a mix of shaded and sunny positions. 2 No. $2,000 $4,000 Low BCC BCC

6.3 17 Establish directional signage to and from Black Rock House to maintain historic links to the foreshore and beach. 3 No. $500 $1,500 Low BCC BCC 5.1

Subtotal Black Rock House $10,500

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN WORKS - BAYSIDE

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN WORKS - OTHERAGENCIES

Contingencies (20%)

COAST WALKING PATHS

BEACH ROAD AND BAY TRAIL

$1,139,400

$837,880

$5,027,280

BLACK ROCK HOUSE

$3,050,000



REFERENCESBayside City Council, Bayside Open Space Strategy, Bayside City Council, 2012.

Bayside City Council, Bayside Public Toilet Strategy, Bayside City Council, 2012.

Bayside City Council, Bayside Open Space Lighting Policy, Bayside City Council, 2008.

Bayside City Council, Bayside Domestic Animal Management Plan, Bayside City Council, 2012.

Bayside City Council, Bayside Recreation Strategy ‘Active by the Bay’, Bayside City Council, 2013 - 2022

Ecology Australia, Bayside Native Vegetation Works Program Stage 1, 2008.

Ecology Australia, Bayside Native Vegetation Works Program Stage 2, 2011.

Eric Bird, The Sandringham Environment Series- No.2, Geology and Landforms of Beach Park: An Excursion Guide, Sandringham City Council, 1987.

Friends of Black Rock House, www.blackrockhouse.org.au, 2015.

Urban initiatives, Bayside Coastal Management Plan, Bayside City Council, 2014.

Victorian Coastal Council, Victorian Coastal Strategy, Victorian Coastal Council, 2014

Black Rock Foreshore Masterplan

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION REPORT

Prepared by

Thompson Berrill Landscape Design Pty Ltd

for

Bayside City Council

April 2016

BLACKROCK FORSHORE MASTERPLAN SUMMARY REPORT COMMUNITY CONSULTATION APRIL 2016 PAGE 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE #

1. CONSULTATION PROCESS 3

1.1 Summary of Consultation at the Analysis Phase 3

1.2 Summary of Consultation at the Draft Masterplan Phase 3

2. RESPONSE TO KEY ISSUES RAISED DURING CONSULTATION 5

ON THE DRAFT MASTERPLAN

2.1 Beach Access 5

2.2 Coastal Walking Path 8

2.3 Public Toilets 10

2.4 Black Rock Life Saving Club (BRLSC) 12

2.5 Parking 13

2.6 Beach Road 14

2.7 Other Infrastructure 14

2.8 Flora and Fauna 16

2.9 Cultural Heritage 17

2.10 Consultation process 18

3. FEEDBACK RECEIVED DURING CONSULTATION 18

ON THE DRAFT MASTERPLAN

3.1 Community Information Session Meeting Notes 18

REV DATE AMENDMENT

A 29/4/2016 Draft for comment


1. Consultation Process

The Black Rock Foreshore Masterplan focused on targeted precinct stakeholder

consultation in development of the draft. This was supported by the extensive

consultation completed by Council with the local community, clubs, businesses and other

community organisations at Black Rock through the recently completed Bayside Coastal

Management Plan 2014 and Bayside Open Space Strategy 2012.

The draft masterplan was displayed on-site and via Council’s website for broader

community consultation from early February to late March 2016. Community feedback,

received through this period as summarised in this report, has then been used to finalise

the masterplan recommendations, staging and implementation priorities for completion of

on ground works on Council managed land. The consultation outcomes will also be used

by Council to advocate community views in discussion with other State Government land

managers including VicRoads and Department of Environment, Land, Water and

Planning.

1.1 Stakeholder consultation during the analysis phase

Community consultation at the analysis phase included:

Review of previous consultation

Community consultation and Council endorsed recommendations and priorities

arising from the Bayside Coastal Management Plan 2014 and Bayside Open Space

Strategy 2012 were reviewed and reconfirmed with precinct stakeholders.

On-site Walkover Meetings

Wednesday 1/4/2015 from 4.00 to 5:30pm at Black Rock Foreshore

An on-site walkover meeting was held with the Black Rock and Sandringham

Conservation Association (BRASCA) and Friends of Native Wildlife (FONW) to

discuss specific issues/opportunities raised in the initial phase of consultation. A draft

of the masterplan was then mailed out to the Stakeholders on 2/4/2016 to provide

further comments to inform the draft masterplan report.

Black Rock Life Saving Club Meeting # 1

Wednesday 1/4/2015 from 5:30 to 6:30pm at Black Rock Life Saving Club. The

consultant team visited the Black Rock Life Saving Club to review the existing

conditions of the building, current function and operational issues and opportunities.

Black Rock Life Saving Club Meeting # 2

Tuesday 2/6/2015 from 5:30 to 6:30pm at Bayside City Council.

The consultant team presented an overview of the draft Black Rock Foreshore

Masterplan to the members of Black Rock Life Saving Club and also the existing

conditions of the building. Opportunities were also raised.

1.2 Community consultation at the draft masterplan phase

Community consultation on the draft masterplan was completed over a six week period

from early February to late March 2016. This included:


On site signage display

The draft masterplan was displayed on site using a large sign adjacent to the

playground in Black Rock Gardens and other smaller notices located at Black Rock

Life Saving Club and other key beach access points along the coastal trail.

Evening Community Information Session

Thursday 23 February 2016 from 4.00pm–6.00pm at the Black Rock Life Saving

Club. This session provided an opportunity for interested people to attend and ask

questions, provide direct feedback to Council officers and the consultant team.

Attended by 51 people. Refer Section 3.1

Council Website - http://yoursaybayside.com.au/blackrock-foreshore-masterplan

The draft masterplan and full report was displayed on Council’s website for

community feedback via the ‘Have Your Say’ online portal.

Other consultation

On site meetings, phone and email clarifications were undertaken by Council officers

to address specific issues/opportunities raised in consultation.

1.3 Petition

A petition with 237 signatures was tabled at the Bayside City Council Meeting on 22

March 2016. The petition was protesting the draft masterplan recommendation indicating

future removal of the Gordon Crescent beach access stairs. A joint letter containing 380

signatures regarding the same issue was also received at Council.

The detailed response to the petition and other feedback on this same issue received via

the ‘Have your Say’ website and community information session is outlined in Section 2

Item 1.1 page 5 of this report.

http://yoursaybayside.com.au/blackrock-foreshore-masterplan


2. Response to the key issues raised during the consultation on the draft masterplan

The following tables summarise the relevant key issues raised in community consultation on the draft

and outlines the proposed response for consideration in finalisation of the masterplan. The number of

respondents for each issue, including those received via the website, via e-mail, at the drop in session

are noted in brackets. Refer to Section 3 for further detail on specific issues raised in consultation.

ITEM COMMENT RESPONSE

1. BEACH ACCESS

1.1 Oppose the closure of the Gordon

Crescent Stairs. Reasons include:

This access is well used by residents

and visitors (34 respondents)

Improving beach access is a key

objective of the masterplan (3

respondents)

Ongoing maintenance costs are

manageable (18 respondents)

Provides access to the best beach

and views (6 respondents)

Reduced access and a quieter beach

creates a safety issue (9 respondents)

Restricted swimming access (6

respondents)

Black Rock is already short of

infrastructure (4 respondents)

Residents happy to contribute to cost

of repairs – provide cost analysis of

repairs

Paid parking on this section of Beach

Rd is a revenue source for council

which would be lost with closure of the

stairs (2 respondents)

Distance between BRLSC and

Seaview Crescent Ramp is

unmanageable (12 respondents)

The seat and handrail make Gordon

Crescent stairs more accessible than

the ramp (6 respondents)

Stairs encourage physical activity (3

respondents)

Upgrades or replacement with

recycled materials is preferable to

removal (8 respondents)

This access will continue to be used

informally (2 respondents)

Increased parking and traffic issues at

the other ramps and surrounding

streets (9 respondents)

Increased environmental impact at the

other ramps (3 respondents)

Costs to be covered by sponsorship

from a local company

Overcrowding at other access ramps

(7 respondents)

Extensive community feedback on the high

levels of use and importance of the Gordon

Crescent stairs means potential future closure

of this access should not be considered further.

The Gordon Crescent beach access stairs are

timber and the posts and structural members

are unlikely to last another 10 years without

replacement.

The steep coastal topography, sensitive nature

of coastal vegetation and potential cultural

heritage values in this section of the foreshore

mean planning for replacement must commence

in the near future as it may take an extended

time for Council to obtain the required permits to

complete the replacement works when required.

Construction access and rebuilding of the stairs,

when needed, will likely require removal of

native vegetation triggering a planning permit

under the Vegetation Protection Overlay and the

need for Coastal Management Consent from the

Department of Environment, Land, Water and

Planning (DELWP). The need for a Cultural

Heritage Management Plan will also need to be

further assessed.

Recommendations:

Update Page 12 Recommendation 4 text as

follows:

Retain and maintain the beach access stairs at

Gordon Crescent. Commence design and

planning for longer term replacement of the

stairs in their current location, including

vegetation and cultural heritage impact

assessment as needed to gain the required

works permit. Continue to maintain the existing

timber stairs and update local residents on the

replacement planning process. (H)



Dating back to 1930 this access has

heritage value (2 respondents)

Residents volunteer to help with

maintenance work to lower costs (2

respondents)

Access to quiet beach away from busy

BRLSC is important for health (2

respondents)

Existing stairs have a low

environmental impact (3 respondents)

Important local access for the elderly

(6 respondents)

(Total 65 respondents, 237 petition

signatures and 380 signatures in a joint

letter)

1.2 Multiple and varied beach access is an

important amenity (7 respondents)

There are four ramps and six sets of stairs

providing access from Beach Road and the Bay

Trail down to the foreshore sea wall promenade

and beach at Black Rock. These access points

are in various stages of repair and unfortunately

the steep coastal topography, sensitive nature

of coastal vegetation and potential cultural

heritage values in this section of the foreshore

mean upgrading them to meet current all ability

access standards is not possible in all locations.

The draft masterplan identifies priorities for

replacement and upgrade of existing beach

access where connected to existing car parking,

toilet facilities and to improve all ability access

where possible. Some of these works will

require removal of coastal vegetation and the

draft masterplan investigated options for closure

of some access points to offset the

environmental impact of these works.

Community feedback on the draft masterplan

has been considered in review of

recommendations for beach access

improvements. Refer also Issue 1.9

Recommendations:

Retain existing beach access stairs at Gordon

Crescent (refer Issue 1.1) and Quiet Corner

(refer Issue 1.3).

Remove the stair access south of the Black

Rock Life Saving Club (BRLSC) to offset the

environmental impacts of upgrading the existing

beach access ramp to provide all ability access.

(refer Issue 1.4)

Retain other existing access stairs and ramps

undertaking minor handrail and resting point

improvement works as outlined in the draft

masterplan Page 12 Recommendation 3.



1.3 Do not support closure of the Quiet

Corner Stairs.

(7 respondents)

Refer Issue 1.2

Recommendations:

Update Page 12 Recommendation 5 text as

follows:

Retain and maintain the existing stone beach

access stairs at Quiet Corner. Establish

stainless steel handrails to both sides. (M)

1.4 Do not support extension of the BRLSC

ramp

(6 respondents)

Proposed changes to beach ramp at

BRLSC will have a negative impact on

the existing dune which is important to

protect. Suggest moving beach ramp

south of the BRLSC to an area where

revegetation is required.

(2 respondents)

Do not support removal of stairs south of

BRLSC, minor upgrades required.

(2 respondents)

All ability access to the beach is more

important than access to the BRSLC

The BRLSC ramp is the main access to the

beach from Black Rock Village. It is also the

only access for emergency vehicles and beach

cleaning. The existing ramp is graded at 1 in 8

and as part of the future redevelopment of the

BRSLC, the masterplan recommends that the

ramp is extended further north towards the main

swimming beach reducing the gradient to 1 in 14

and improving access to the beach for persons

with limited mobility.

Realignment of the ramp south would direct

visitors away from the main beach area which is

north of the BRLSC. The proposed BRLSC

upgrade works will include revegetation of the

area south including closure of the other stairs to

offset the overall impacts on dune vegetation.

Ongoing coastal erosion and the future impacts

of sea level rise are likely to require further bank

stabilisation works in front and south of the

BRLSC. Council will continue to liaise with the

DELWP to investigate options to improve access

to the beach and existing sea wall path.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

1.6 Support removal of stairs south of

BRLSC

Refer Issue 1.2 and 1.4.

1.7 Provide all ability access at Black Rock

Gardens Ramp instead of upgrades to

ramp at BRLSC to minimise

environmental impact.

The existing ramp at Black Rock Gardens has a

gradient of approx 1 in 6 and is less than 2.0m

wide. To make it all ability accessible to AS1428

(i.e. max 1 in 14 with flat landings every 9m it

will need to be widened (to allow machine

access for works) and almost doubled in length.

The beach sand is often eroded in the area

between the BRLSC and the Black Rock

Gardens ramp and these works are unlike to

improve long term all ability access to the main

swimming beach.

Recommendation:

No change to plan



1.8 Existing handrails on the clock tower

ramp (Black Rock Gardens ramp) are

adequate, no need to increase.

Refer Issue 1.7. The existing Black Rock

Gardens ramp is concrete with a stainless steel

handrail to one side only. AS1428 requires

handrail to both sides (to limit disadvantage to

persons who may only have limited use of one

side of their body) and the masterplan

recommends installation of the handrail to the

other side as a medium priority.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

1.9 All ability beach access is adequately

provided for.

Between 13-20% of Bayside residents have a

disability of some kind and equity of access to

the foreshore, open space areas and facilities is

a key Council requirement and objective. The

steep topography, unstable cliffs and ad hoc

development of infrastructure over time have

resulted in numerous barriers to universal

access at Black Rock foreshore. Some barriers

such as topography and the legislative

requirements for protection of coastal

environmental values and sites of cultural

heritage significance are not easily overcome.

The draft masterplan approach to universal

access and priorities for upgrades have been

subject to an accessibility audit.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

1.10 Stainless steel handrails are not

appropriate in hot or wet conditions

The existing stainless steel handrails are

durable and meet current standards.

Unfortunately other materials such as timber and

plastic are not practical for use as handrails in

this exposed coastal location.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

1.11 Second Street Ramp is important to

retain

The existing beach access at Second Street will

be retained. Refer Issue 1.2

Recommendation:

No change to plan

1.12 Improve beach access at Central

Avenue

Central Avenue is south of Quiet Corner and

outside the study area for this masterplan.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

2 COASTAL PATH

2.1 Do not support upgrades to coastal

path. Concern about loss of vegetation

and conflict of users between cyclists

and walkers. Support fencing along one

The narrow unsealed coast walking path runs

parallel with Beach Road winding its way

through coastal heathland with elevated views

out over the Bay and beaches to the city. It



side of path.

(10 respondents)

varies in width and is increasingly popular with

walkers and joggers of all ages and abilities.

Cyclists are discouraged from using the walking

path to avoid congestion, maintain safety and to

minimise impacts on sensitive coastal vegetation

and habitat values. Path recommendations are

to be consistent with the Bayside Coastal

Management Plan (2014) overall

recommendations for access along the

foreshore.

Recommendation:

Clarify the Coastal Walking Path text on Page

12 as follows:

Maintain a compacted granitic gravel/sand

walking path up to 2.5 metres in width (site

specific), inclusive of pruning to either side. In

areas where the concrete sea wall promenade

can be accessed from the coastal path, maintain

the existing path width using natural logs to

define the edge of path where it is unfenced.

2.2 Informal character of coastal walking

path is highly valued (9 respondents)

Refer Issue 2.1

2.3 Support upgrades to coastal path to

improve accessibility

(2 respondents)

Refer Issue 2.1

2.4 Proposed concrete is an inappropriate

surface for the coastal walking path

(3 respondents)

A short section (approx 120m) of existing

coastal path adjoining the Black Rock Gardens

Playground was recommended to be sealed

using coloured concrete. This was to provide

improved all ability access to the proposed new

toilet facilities from the B16 car park and to

assist with providing anchor points for safe

maintenance access to the steep cliff for weed

control and revegetation. As the proposed toilet

facility will be moved (refer Issue 3.1) there is no

need to seal this section of path.

Recommendation:

Remove reference to the sealed section of

coastal walking path on the detail plan on page

11. Retain reference to provision of improved

fencing and provision of anchor points for safe

weed control and revegetation works on the

steep embankment.

2.5 Support all ability access to the Black

Rock Gardens (park) and surrounding

area. Proposed sealed path could be

extended to loop around the park.

(2 respondents)

All ability access will be maintained to the

playground and picnic areas at Black Rock

Gardens. The existing path network already

forms a loop and proposed upgrade works will

improve access while retaining the unsealed

surface on the coastal walking path. Refer Issue

2.4



Recommendation:

No change to plan

2.6 Ensure paths are of good width and

visibility. Improve surface of paths.

(2 respondents)

Refer Issue 2.1

Recommendation:

No change to plan

2.7 Do not support removal of fence on

Beach Road side of walking path.

Existing fence is in good condition and

protective of vegetation.

(2 respondents)

In some sections

Recommendation:

No change to plan

2.8 Do not support extension of sea wall

and path to Half Moon Bay, seclusion of

Black Rock is valued

(2 respondents)

The sea wall and coastal protection works are

the responsibility of DELWP. There is no

proposal to extend the sea wall to Half Moon

Bay.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

2.9 Support separate cycle and walking

paths, informal surface of coastal

walking path is inappropriate for cyclists

(4 respondents)

Conflict for open space users on shared

cycle/walking paths

Cyclists are discouraged from using the

unsealed coastal walking path and sea wall

promenade to maintain safety for all users, avoid

congestion, and to minimise impacts on

sensitive coastal vegetation and habitat values.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

2.10 Separate cycle paths are not required Refer Issue 2.9

Recommendation:

No change to plan

2.12 Improve signage of coastal walking

paths to ensure suitable use

(2 respondents)

Upgrade of signage at beach access points is a

high priority recommendation. Refer Issue 2.13

Recommendation:

No change to plan

2.13 Improve enforcement of dog on-leash

requirements and cycling on walking

paths

(2 respondents)

The masterplan recommends installation of

chicanes at connections to the Bay Trail to

reduce cycle access onto the coastal walking

path. These will include signage regarding dog

on lead requirements and restrictions on cycle

use.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

3. PUBLIC TOILETS

3.1 Ensure proposed new public toilets are

not disruptive to the view, suggest

relocating

(24 respondents)

The existing public toilets are located between

the Black Rock Life Saving Club and

playground. Currently the public toilets are used

by both playground visitors and beach users



Support new public toilets near

playground relocated from proposed site

(13 respondents)

Upgrade current toilet facilities including

all ability access

(15 respondents)

Suggested location for new public toilets

between playground and B16 carpark

(9 respondents)

Existing public toilets are adequate and

well-positioned, ensure ongoing

maintenance

(8 respondents)

Include new public toilets and showers

in upgrades to BRLSC

(5 respondents)

Proposed new public toilets are too

close to the playground

(4 respondents)

Proposed new public toilets too far from

the beach and BRLSC

(4 respondents)

Proposed new public toilet to be located

nearer to Beach Rd

(2 respondents)

while located away from both activity areas.

The plan is remove both male-female blocks to

be replaced with one building containing one or

more unisex toilets to accommodate all ability

access. The works are identified as one of the

top priorities in the Bayside Public Toilet

Strategy (2012) and Bayside Coastal

Management Plan (2014) due to lack of lighting

and narrow entry restricting disabled access to

the existing toilets.

A new public toilet and small change facility are

recommended to be incorporated into the future

redevelopment of the BRLSC building to service

beach visitors.

The draft plan illustrated the new public toilet

facility closer to the playground area providing

sealed all ability access from B16 Carpark, and

clear visual links for visitors on the Bay Trail,

however a majority of respondents felt that this

location will create too much impact on views to

the bay from the playground and picnic area.

Alternative siting options are outlined below –

refer to the attached plan.

Option 1 – Relocate closer to Beach Road

immediately south of the existing toilet

facilities.

Advantages:

Meets CPTED (Crime Prevention Through

Environmental Design) requirements and will

be more visible for Bay Trail users and

visitors crossing Beach Road via the traffic

lights.

Retains better access for beach users if

there is a delay in redevelopment of the

BRLSC including new public toilets.

Easier to service with sewer/water/power.

Disadvantages:

Very visible from Beach Rd, architectural

design important not to detract from the clock

tower and existing sculpture.

Located slightly further away from proposed

accessible parking on Beach Road in front of

the BRLSC.

Option 2 – Relocate to the car park side of

the playground

Advantages:

Screened by existing vegetation.

Proximity to existing accessible parking in

the B16 car park.



Disadvantages:

Does not meet CPTED requirements and

some trimming/removal of vegetation may be

required to build/service the facility and to

maintain safe sightlines.

Located away from beach restricting access

for beach users if there is a delay in

redevelopment of the BRLSC including new

public toilets.

Recommendation:

Relocate proposed public toilet facilities as per

Option 1 – closer to Beach Road. Make clearer

that public toilets and change facilities will be

provided as part of the future BRLSC

redevelopment.

3.2 Proposed new public toilets at Quiet

Corner not necessary

(15 respondents)

Support proposed new public toilet at

Quiet Corner including all ability access

(4 respondents)


near Central Avenue

(3 respondents)

Suggest relocating proposed Quiet

Corner public toilets to end of the sea

wall

Suggested location for Quiet Corner

public toilets at unused fishermen’s hut

To overcome the gap in provision of public

toilets on the foreshore between Ricketts Point

and Black Rock, the Bayside Public Toilet

Strategy (2012) suggested installing a new

public toilet facility on the foreshore opposite

330-331 Beach Road, Black Rock. The

establishment of this new facility is considered a

lower priority than replacement of existing

facilities at Black Rock.

Advice from the DELWP in March 2016

indicated that provision of a public toilet facility

at Quiet Corner will not be supported.

Recommendation:

Remove reference to proposed public toilets at

Quiet Corner from the plan.

3.3 Ensure good visibility of new public

toilets for safety.

(2 respondents)

New public toilets to be environmentally-

friendly

(2 responses)

Provide clear signage

(2 respondents)

Refer Issue 3.1. New public toilet facilities will be

sited to maximise public safety in accordance

with best practice CPTED principles.

Design of new toilets will be to Council

specifications incorporating best practice

environmental design.

Recommendation:

Add note regarding provision of directional

signage to toilet facilities from the pedestrian

crossings on Beach Road, the Bay Trail, the

beach and B16 car park.

3.4 New public toilets to include a change

area (2 respondents)


at existing outdoor shower.

New public toilets for beach users are to be

recommended incorporated into the future

redevelopment of the BRLSC. This facility will

incorporate a small change area.



Recommendation: No change to plan

4. BLACK ROCK LIFE SAVING CLUB

4.1 Support upgrades to BRLSC

(9 respondents)

Council to contribute to cost of BRLSC

upgrades

(5 respondents)

There was no written objection or feedback

during the community information session to

redevelopment of the BRLSC building in its

current location as shown on the masterplan.

Redevelopment of the building is a high priority

however Council is not responsible for beach

patrols and life saving activities. The proposed

replacement of the BRLSC building is subject to

State Government and Life Saving Victoria

funding.

Redevelopment of the BRLSC will need to

incorporate a new accessible public toilet facility

and small change room. Council may need to

make a financial contribution to the

redevelopment in order to achieve these

outcomes however these can only be accurately

determined at detailed design.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

4.2 Upgrades to BRLSC to include showers

and cafe

(2 respondents)

Refer Issue 4.1 and 7.1

The BRLSC is in close proximity to the existing

shopping strip at Black Rock Village and there is

no public car parking available in support of a

commercial café development.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

4.4 Provide fencing of grass in front of

BRLSC.

Improve usage of grass in front of

BRLSC

The grass area in front of the BRLSC will be

retained and bollards will be used to protect this

area from public parking as shown on the plan.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

5. PARKING

5.1 Additional parking at BRSLC creates

traffic and safety issues

(3 respondents)

Recommendation:

No change to plan

5.2 Review drainage, space and access of

proposed car parking at BRSLC.

Disabled parking at B16 carpark is a

higher priority. (2 respondents)

Recommendation:

No change to plan

5.3 Improve access for lifesavers and

emergency services

(2 respondents)

Refer Issue 1.4 and 5.1

Proposed upgrade of the BRLSC ramp will

improve access for lifesavers and emergency

services.



Recommendation: No change to plan

5.4 Further repairs required to B16 carpark

ramp. Remove temporary fencing.

Upgrade of the B16 car park ramp to establish

handrails to both sides has been identified as a

high priority.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

5.5 Provide bollards and fencing of new and

existing car parks to prevent cars

encroaching on footpaths.

The existing B16 car park was recently

upgraded and has barrier kerb and parking is

not permitted on footpaths –subject to Local

Laws enforcement. Installation of additional

bollards and barriers may potentially restrict

pedestrian access and are not recommended.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

6. BEACH ROAD

6.1 Pedestrian crossings required on both

sides of the road at the track leading to

Black Rock House.

Provide additional pedestrian crossings

across Beach Road.

Beach Road is managed by VicRoads. Page 7

dot point 3 recommends liaison with VicRoads to

investigate provision of kerb ramps on Beach

Road to improve access at the crossing to Black

Rock House track.

Recommendation:

Also add to recommendation as above to Item

17 Page 12

6.2 Upgrades to clock roundabout area

required.

Beach Road is managed by VicRoads. Council

maintains the garden bed and planting in the

clock tower round about. Vegetation will

continue to be managed in accordance with

existing Open Space maintenance contracts.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

7. OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE

7.1 Outdoor shower is well used and should

be retained as is. Vegetation provides

good cover in winter, important for bay

swimming groups over winter.

(10 respondents)

Extend bench seating around outdoor

shower and retain at current location

(2 respondents)

Ensure public access to showers is

maintained.

Provide an enclosed changing area for

outdoor showers.

Maintenance of existing outdoor

The plan recommends moving the beach

shower closer to the beach access ramp as part

of the new BRLSC redevelopment.

Recommendation:

Amend note to Item 8 Page 11 as follows:

Retain and maintain the existing beach shower

until redevelopment of the BRLSC. Then

relocate closer to the proposed new public toilet

facility and small change room with all ability

access via the upgrade beach access ramp.



showers is required.

7.2 Foreshore is lacking in exercise areas,

provide more exercise equipment

(4 respondents)

The narrow winding coastal foreshore walking

tracks and sensitive coastal environmental

values are vulnerable to increasing levels of high

performance exercise. Provision of exercise

equipment on the foreshore is likely to increase

these pressures and is not recommended.

Exercise equipment is better suited to other

inland regional parks within the municipality,

such as Dendy Park.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

7.6 Provide fencing of the playground

(2 respondents)

Provide fencing around the playground

including surrounding vegetation area

The existing playground has fencing on the

Beach Road and Bay Trail and car park side.

Installation of additional fencing will change the

popular relaxed character of the playground and

potentially restrict access to and from the

adjoining grass areas. Additional fencing is not

required to manage public safety or protection of

vegetation in this area.

.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

7.7 Provide additional seating near

playground/barbeque area

(2 respondents)

Item 13 Page 12 indicates that there will be an

upgrade of picnic tables and seats through Black

Rock Gardens as a low priority.

Recommendation:

Increase priority for these works to High

7.8 Provide a sheltered look-out/picnic area

(2 respondents)

The plans recommendation 1 page 12 indicates

that the informal lookout point near Second

Street will be fenced. These works could

include establishment of a picnic table.

There are limited picnic facilities between

Gordon Crescent and Arkaringa Street.

Recommendation:

Add recommendation for establishment of a

picnic table at the Second Street beach lookout

point.

Add recommendation for establishment of a

shaded picnic table between Gordon Crescent

and Arkaringa Street.

7.9 Provide drinking fountain for dogs and

poo bags

(2 respondents)

Provide additional drinking fountains

A drinking fountain and additional dog poo bag

dispenser will be established with the new public

toilet facility.

Recommendation:



No change to plan

7.10 Improved lighting of path to Black Rock

House is a low priority due to low usage

after dark.

There is no proposal to add lighting to Black

Rock House.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

7.11 Provide more bins along beach

promenade – every 500 metres

Rubbish and recycling bins are provided at the

playground, car park and beach access points.

Rubbish collections along the foreshore can be

monitored to gauge for future needs.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

7.12 Important to maintain the sea wall to

protect vulnerable coastline

Coastal protection and management of the

existing sea wall is the responsibility of the

Department of Land Water and Planning. They

are currently reviewing options to improve

coastal protection along the existing sea wall.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

7.13 Review location of drain outlet on

swimming beach near playground.

Stormwater pits are a safety hazard.

Refer Item 7.12

Review of the existing stormwater outlets can

only be completed after DELWP complete their

assessment of future coastal stability and

options to enhance the sustainability of the

existing sea wall.

Recommendation:

Add note to Item 10 Page 12 regarding review of

stormwater outlets as part of coastal stability

assessment.

8. FLORA AND FAUNA

8.1 Support measures to improve vegetation

(4 respondents)

Foreshore environment, remnant

vegetation and native habitat important

to protect (2 respondents)

Ensure no reduction of existing

vegetation

(2 respondents)

Refer Item 7.12

Foreshore revegetation will continue to be

undertaken in accordance with the predominant

ecological vegetation class (EVC 161) Coastal

Headland Scrub.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

8.2 Maintenance required to areas of

erosion and deterioration of sea wall and

cliff face

(3 respondents)

Important to maintain current dune and

cliff faces (2 respondents)

Refer Item 7.12

The Black Rock foreshore is covered by a

Vegetation Protection Overlay and an Erosion

Management Overlay in the Bayside Planning

Scheme. Protection of existing dune and cliff

face vegetation is a key requirement in



maintaining cliff stability.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

8.3 Support revegetation of existing areas

but concern about increasing vegetation

in open areas, encroaching on the view

from lookouts.

Increase areas of low vegetation to

improve wildlife corridors without

disrupting the view.

Provide additional canopy trees along

walking paths

Foreshore revegetation will continue to be

undertaken in accordance with the predominant

ecological vegetation class (EVC 161) Coastal

Headland Scrub.

The Coastal Headland Scrub benchmark describes this EVC as a scrub or low shrubland to 2m tall with a cover of medium shrubs around 50%, on steep, rocky coastal headlands often associated with cliffs exposed to the stresses of extreme salt-laden winds and salt spray from the south west.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

8.4 Provide interpretive signage of native

vegetation.

Recommendation:

Add recommendation to Page 10 regarding

development of interpretive signage while

ensuring consistency with the Bayside Native

Vegetation Works Plan.

8.5 Flora around playground needs better

management. Fencing the playground

would protect flora and improve safety

for children.

Refer Item 7.6

The existing native shrubs and ground layer

planting around the playground are an integral

part of the playground character and play

experience. At times they can become ‘over

used’ however fencing will only be used to assist

reestablishment of new planting.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

8.6 Revegetation required in areas in need

of stabilisation, weed control and

protection from wind and erosion

Priority areas for weed control and revegetation

have been identified in consultation with

BRASCA and Council’s Parks Department.

Refer Page 10.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

8.7 Improve watering systems to improve

revegetation.

Improve watering system and

maintenance of grass in the public

gardens to increase usage.

Vegetation along the foreshore is predominantly

indigenous and does not need irrigation once

established.

Grass in the gardens is predominantly Kikuyu, a

drought tolerant warm season grass requiring

little if any irrigation. There is no available area

to establish recycled water storage and use of

potable water for irrigation on the foreshore is



not recommended.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

9. CULTURAL HERITAGE

Increase opening hours of Black Rock

House and improve signage of opening

hours. (4 respondents)

Improve signage on the path connecting

Black Rock House to Beach Road

(2 respondents)

Improve accuracy of the existing

signage at Black Rock House, including

full name and website of the Friends of

Black Rock House Inc. (2 respondents)

Increase access and community use of

Black Rock House.

Item 17 Page 12 recommends installation of

directional signage at the existing track and Bay

Trail to and from Black Rock House to maintain

historic links between the house and foreshore.

Recommendation:

Add review existing signage at Black Rock

House.

Important to preserve cultural heritage

values of the foreshore environment

(2 respondents)

Protection of existing Aboriginal and historic

heritage values is a key outcome of the plan

refer page 7.

Recommendation:

No change to plan

Improve signage at historic headstones.

Item 11 Page 12 recommend liaison with

Heritage Victoria to protect and interpret the

stonework inscriptions on the sea wall

(headstones).

Recommendation:

No change to plan

Historic rock retaining wall on the cliff

side is important (not mentioned in the

draft masterplan)

The existing rock retaining wall on the cliff side

is not listed as of heritage significance and has

been modified many times as part of ongoing

coastal protection works since establishment.

Recommendation:

Refer Item 7.12 – when future sea wall/coastal

protection works are undertaken by DELWP

seek retention and protection of the natural

stone retaining walls as part of works.

Provide signage outlining the history of

the Black Rock clock tower.

Recommendation:

Investigate opportunities to establish interpretive

signage regarding the Black Rock clock tower

near the shared trail at Black Rock Gardens.

10. CONSULTATION PROCESS

10.1 Prioritise the needs of local residents. There has been extensive community feedback



Improve community consultation.

Forum is a difficult platform to register

comment, meaning community

consultation is limited.

on the draft masterplan and the community

information session was also well attended.

This indicates that residents and community

stakeholders have seen and reviewed the draft

masterplan, taking the opportunity to provide

comment and feedback that will refine and

improve the final masterplan.

Recommendation:

Noted.


3. Feedback received during consultation on the Draft Masterplan

3.1 Community Information Session

Evening Community Information Session

Thursday 23 February 2016 from 4.00pm–6.00pm at the Black Rock Life Saving Club.

Below is a summary of general comments recorded during the community information

sessions. The meeting was attended by 50 local residents with Council officers and

consultants on hand to answer queries and record community feedback as provided.

There was extensive discussion and passionate community feedback regarding the draft

recommendations in particular the long term future of the Gordon Crescent beach access

stairs and the provision and location of public toilet facilities.

Summary of general comments includes:

GORDON CRESCENT STAIRS

What can we do to keep the stairs open at Gordon Crescent?

There are higher levels of use than assessed in the masterplan, with extensive

parking in Gordon Crescent and then using the access.

Gordon Crescent provides for off street parking and is well used.

It is important to maintain the stairs when they become worn out as it is the only main

access to the beach between Seaview Crescent ramp and the Black Rock Life Saving

Club.

Gordon Crescent stairs need to be updated as it’s been established for a long time.

There maybe significant history behind it.

Beach access at Gordon Crescent has been there for over 100 years.

Instead of retaining the timber stairs, a potential option is to use recycled plastic

material? – can also seek sponsorship from volunteers/local residents to help rebuild

the stairs?

Residents should be involved in any future decision to the removal of stairs.

Stairs are easier to use for some older people – seat is important (acts as resting

place).

Gordon Crescent acts as an important viewing point for people using the beach as

there are views out to the corals and reef from the top.

Removing the stairs will cause local residents to travel /walk further distances to

access the main area of the beach (only option is either from Black Rock Life Saving

Club or from Seaview Crescent ramp access).

Not all access has to be all ability accessible – the stairs provides character to the

foreshore.

There’s no parking at Quiet Corner – much less use.

PUBLIC TOILET FACILITIES

An alternative location for the proposed toilet could be located between the

playground and B16 car park.

The proposed toilet location in the draft masterplan is in a bad location as it blocks the

primary views out to the foreshore and beach.

Why can’t the current location of the toilet blocks be demolished and renewed to meet

disability standards? The current location can serve the users between the

playground and beach users.

There is no need for another toilet facility on 330 Beach Road as not many people

access that area. Local users can use the current toilets in Black Rock Gardens or

near Ricketts Point.


A new toilet facility on 330 Beach Road will be an eyesore along the foreshore and

may attract/create passive/safety issues as it is a quiet part of Beach Road.

Need to make sure the proposed public toilets within the Black Rock Life Saving Club

is close to the beach and should be also be close to the shower/seating area.

OVERALL

Plan is not targeted for local use – more at visitors.

Would like to see fitness stations along Black Rock Gardens as it can promote

fitness within the community.

Great to see bench seats in Black Rock House for users to enjoy the area!

Would like to see more signage provided for Black Rock House/directional

signage and history signage to let people read e.g. History noticeboard for Black

Rock Gardens.

Consider the need to provide a lighting strategy along with the new facilities

provided e.g. next to new toilet area for safety.

BLACK ROCK LIFE SAVING CLUB

Great to see ramp proposed to enable all ability access down to the beach!

The new suggested ramp is cutting into sand dunes and will have to remove a lot

of vegetation. Do not recommend it.

Need to consider slight privacy for shower users. Need to make sure the new

shower location provides partial privacy.

Wind exposure on the new shower location – need the protection from the west

and south winds.

Existing shower is poorly designed.

Will also need to consider beach renourishment as it affects the current usage by

beach users.

Certain areas along the foreshore provide great views to the beach but feel the

vegetation is growing too high (obstructing sea views). Suggest height

restrictions on vegetation in certain areas.

Life Saving Club is locked during the week- no multi use allowed for other users

and lack of public change rooms/toilets.

BLACK ROCK FORESHORE MASTERPLAN · Black Rock House was built in 1856 by Charles Ebden, former...

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