BBQs, dog park, outdoor gym: Group proposes plan for Maleny District Park

Three Maleny residents, all linked to positive developments on the Maleny Precinct, have responded to an invitation from the Sunshine Coast Council to help shape the development of the town’s new park.

Maleny District Park will be developed on Maleny Community Precinct land and locals Greg Williams, David Lowden, and Max Whitten have created a proposal for a "practical" District Park option covering about six hectares.

The trio emphasised that their proposed park would be twice the minimal required size and meet the needs of a comprehensive District Park. Their plan involves using two of the four areas allocated by the Council, ensuring other land remains available for future discussions and funding options.

“It’s a variation of the design put forward by independent planning experts Urban Master Planning + Design at the request of ‘Park for All’ advocates,” said Dr Whitten.

The proposed park would include a path network connected to a small car park on North Maleny Road. One area (A)would feature toilets, BBQ facilities, and parking. Another large flat area (B) would offer open space, playgrounds, and outdoor gym equipment. A third area (C) would be designated for dogs and other amenities, with access and parking also provided from Cloudwalk estate.

Urban Master Planning + Design consultants noted that their consultations indicated a strong community desire for a multigenerational park that caters to families and various age groups.

They combined community ideas with park standards and site conditions to develop a high-level concept for community feedback.

How to provide feedback

Residents can share their ideas about the park’s design and theme from July 15 to August 12, 2024. They can participate by completing an online survey and joining the Maleny District Park Fund-It Activity on the Council’s website. Additionally, the design team will be available to meet in person on July 27 in Maple Street.

The community’s input will guide the draft concept plan and the proposed future staged development of the park. Later this year, residents will be invited to review the draft concept plan and provide feedback.

The project is part of the Maleny Community Precinct Master Plan, endorsed by the Sunshine Coast Council in 2010. The plan addresses the future development of former farmland for recreation purposes. Changes to the plan, influenced by community input, have shaped the current layout of the precinct.

Currently, $900,000 is allocated for the first stage of the park’s design and implementation in the Council’s 10-year capital works program. This funding is subject to Council endorsement each financial year.

The two main areas of a plan for a Maleny District Park from the air (2018 photo Dr Penny Edwards).

An indicative plan of the three elements of the proposed District Park.