Work has started on a $9.5 million project to transform parkland surrounding the historic Stamford Park Homestead in Rowville.
Expanded wetlands will have shared walking and cycling paths, boardwalks and landscaping and revegetation works, including a lookout tower and village green for community events. There will be a specially-designed habitat for our local platypus colony.
Knox Mayor Cr Susan Laukens said the major transformation would allow even more people to enjoy this iconic Rowville landmark.
"Our vision is to transform this area to enhance and preserve the wonderful natural environment for our community to access more easily," she said.
"The wetlands and adjoining creek at Stamford Park are vital for our environment. Not only do they play an important role in stormwater management, they provide an important habitat for birds, frogs, turtles, native eels, fish and our local platypus colony.
"A network of new shared paths and boardwalks will open up this 36 hectares of parkland so that residents and visitors can enjoy and explore this unique and precious part of Knox."
The Stamford Park project has already seen the extensive restoration of the historic Stamford Park Homestead and gardens, and development of an intergenerational adventure playground.
Council is contributing $8.9 million, with Melbourne Water's Liveable Communities, Liveable Waterways Program contributing $600,000 towards the project.
Works are expected to be completed by the second half of 2023.
