Have your say on the draft Waterworks Reserve master plan

Have your say on the draft Waterworks Reserve master plan

Published on 29 June 2023

The City of Hobart is encouraging the community to have their say on a new draft plan for one of Hobart's most cherished bushland parks, Waterworks Reserve.

"The rich cultural, historic and natural values of Waterworks Reserve make it one of our most loved bushland parks," City of Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said.

"People have been visiting Waterworks Reserve for generations, celebrating weddings, birthdays and other milestones surrounded by beautiful forests and the calm waters of the two reservoirs.

"The new Waterworks Reserve draft master plan outlines plans to improve infrastructure within the park to keep pace with the reserve's popularity."

Healthy Hobart Portfolio Chair Cr Dr Zelinda Sherlock said the consultation process found that people value the reserve as a place to gather, to socialise and celebrate important events, take part in outdoor physical activity and learn about the natural environment and history.

“More than 60 per cent of people surveyed said they would like to see improvements to bushland tracks and almost half would like to see more sheltered barbecue sites and improved toilet facilities,” Cr Dr Sherlock said.

“People have also told us that improved play facilities for children and young people are also important as part of any new master plan for Waterworks Reserve.

“Waterworks is a unique bushland park that combines fantastic views across water to the forested foothills of kunanyi/Mt Wellington and is part of Tasmania’s oldest functioning drinking water supply system.

“It is also popular as a picnic spot, for bird watching, hiking and trail running, but its facilities have not kept pace with the reserve’s popularity as a visitor destination.”

Key recommendations in the draft plan include:

New pavilions, BBQ sites and improvements to social gathering places. New nature-based play spaces for children throughout the reserve. New tracks and trails including an off-road trail from the reserve entrance to its far reaches, providing safer access for walkers, runners and riders to get to Ridgeway Park, the Pipeline Track and the foothills of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. A new, centrally located visitor hub that includes shelter, barbecues and accessible toilets. Work with the Tasmanian Aboriginal community to promote awareness about Aboriginal history and culture.

The Reserve is a popular spot for the Bush Adventures program, where children get a taste of environmental and recreational activities.

“Waterworks is a great place for kids to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world,” Bush Adventures program officer Rob Armstrong said.

“Families can learn about local flora and fauna, ecosystems, and conservation efforts through our guided discovery activities.

“It is used all year round for our activities, and it is a hidden gem close to the city, water with amazing plants and home to diverse range of creatures small and large.

“It has stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscape, offering people of all ages a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature only 10 minutes from the CBD.”

You can view the draft master plan and have your say by visiting the Your Say Hobart website: https://yoursay.hobartcity.com.au/waterworks-reserve

Plans can also be viewed at the City of Hobart Customer Service Centre, 16 Elizabeth Street, Hobart.

Consultation is open until 23 July 2023.