Whittlesea Public Gardens will become an important community asset as the City of Whittlesea continues to grow, densify and diversify. McGregor Coxall was engaged by City of Whittlesea Council in 2019 to establish a shared vision and masterplan for the site, undertaking community consultation to inform a design approach that seeks to protect, enhance, and support – strategically repositioning the park as a cornerstone for regional recreation and resilience. A unique narrative of play is informed by the site’s character on the interface between suburban open space and waterways. Adapting and improving site features including the former lake and wetlands, nature play elements offer a safe way to nurture maturity – catering to all ages and abilities with a wealth of educational, sensory-led experiences. The Gardens will serve as the main eastern visitor access point into the 650ha Marran Baba (Merri Creek) Parklands, doubling as the start/end point of the Merri Creek Trail – a 21km pedestrian and cyclist network extending from Melbourne CBD.