By BRIDGET COOK
WORKS have started to improve the security and environment at a Cranbourne park after residents raised safety concerns.
Cranbourne Place Park will get new paths, additional lighting, signage, perimeter fencing, a new gateway entrance and a refurbished rotunda as part of the safety improvements.
The project is being carried out by the council as part of its Back to the Park Revitalisation Project and was made possible through $249,500 in funding from the State Government’s Public Safety Infrastructure Fund grants.
City of Casey Mayor Amanda Stapledon said Back to the Park was established in response to community safety concerns raised by Cranbourne residents about this major open space.
“Council is committed to listening and acting on residents’ concerns about safety and through Back to the Park will reaffirm this by increasing the sense of safety for and usability of legitimate park visitors,” she said.
“The park will provide a gateway to Cranbourne’s High Street and other street frontages, improve links to local businesses and northern residential areas, encourage community ownership of the park and increase open grassed space.
“By improving the security and conditions of the park, through well-managed environmental design, particular types of crimes and anti-social behaviour will be reduced.”
Crime Prevention Minister Edward O’Donohue said the revitalisation of Cranbourne Place would create a safe space for residents to enjoy with family and friends.
“This is a great example of how government can work together with councils and residents to improve the vitality and safety of public open spaces,” he said.
Works will be finished in September and the council advised residents, traders and visitors that parking may be reduced and access to the area will be limited until that time.
