2023-2024 Capital works
Darebin’s capital works program continues its strong focus on investment in new and renewed infrastructure.
In 2023/2024 Council has spent approximately $22.4 million against its capital works program, demonstrating a significant investment across our local government area.
Design of John Hall Reserve Pavilion, Kingsbury
The new design of John Hall Reserve Pavilion was completed in 2023/2024. An open tender was undertaken in preparation of construction commencement in June 2024. The design is responsive to the needs of gender inclusivity and is thoughtfully considered, with much attention given to materiality, passive design principles and inclusive design.
Project cost in 2023-2024: $167,000
Total Project Budget: $2,792,000
Dole Wetlands
During 2023/2024 Council completed the Dole WL Harvest Project, including a 1500m2 wetland and sediment pond, three 670kl and one 310kl underground reinforced concrete storage tanks, and 450m of stormwater drainage.
Practical completion happened in September 2023 and the project was funded by council and Melbourne Water.
Total project cost: $3.9 million
‘Light Up Rezza’ - Broadway Reservoir
As part of a Suburban Revitalisation Boards Grant Program, Council installed 9 in-ground lights to light the existing feature eucalyptus trees along the median of Broadway in Reservoir.
The improvements have increased the level of light in the area which improves perceptions of safety and sense of place to the local businesses.
Total project cost: $215,000
Purinuan Road, Reservoir – Easement Drain Upgrade
Highlighted as a high priority by surrounding neighbours, Council identified a below capacity drain which led to an overflowing pit, causing surrounding properties to flood.
The improvements have upgraded the existing 150mm drain to a 375mm drain with pit modifications to alleviate all flooding concerns.
Total project cost: $64,538
Preston City Oval Cricket Nets
The new cricket nets at Preston City Oval were completed as part of the Capital Works program 2023/2024. Works included the installation of a four synthetic wicket enclosure, storage shed and power outlets for bowling machines. Some landscape improvements to the corner of Mary St and Bruce St were also completed as part of the project, including:
- a new concrete footpath
- the installation of a new drinking fountain, picnic table and bins
- 34 new trees
The total construction was part-funded by the Level Crossing Removal Authority.
Total project cost: $472,364
Wat Ganbo Park wetlands
In accordance with the Reimagining Ruthven Masterplan 2020, an ephemeral wetland was designed for the Wat Ganbo Park site (formerly Ruthven Park). In this long term this will help address flooding, improve water quality, biodiversity and social community connection.
Project cost in 2023/2024: $68,589
Total project cost: $101,020
Road resurfacing program
Almost $2 million was invested to resurface roads at the end of their life and in poor condition throughout the city.
This year Council used environmentally friendly asphalt. One of the products uses steel slag containing 85% recycled material, a waste product from the steel making industry that would otherwise go to landfill. It has great wear-resistant qualities and increases road safety by providing better skid resistance.
Delivery of this project was aligned with the third strategic direction of the Council Plan that emphasises taking action on the climate emergency, prioritising sustainability and striving for zero carbon emissions.
For the first time, contractors from the NCA Panel (Northern Council Alliance Road Maintenance and Associated Services) were engaged to deliver this program.
In total 55,000m2 of roads were resurfaced on 33 sections of the roads across Darebin.
Total project cost: $1,825,682
Replacement of chiller at Municipal Offices
The building at 350 High St Preston is one of the Council owned facilities that had an ageing troublesome chiller that had a recent history of breaking down and parts were becoming difficult to source. At over 20 years old this chiller had reached the end of its life. Replacement of the chiller has had several benefits including improved reliability for user comfort, greater energy efficiency and operational cost savings.
The original chiller has been picked up and recycled by specialist metal recyclers and will be dissimilated so components can be recycled, ensuring adherence to Council sustainability policies.
Total project cost: $143,800
Oval and Sports Ground Renewal and Upgrade Program - WH Robinson Reserve
As part of the Oval and Sports Ground Renewal and Upgrade Program Council installed new drainage, sprinkler system, Santa Ana couch turf and a new Synthetic grass cricket pitch at WH Robinson Reserve Preston.
Total project cost: $650,000
Electric vehicle charging points at Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre
As part of the delivery of the new Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Council has installed 10 electric vehicle fast charging points in the public carpark at 180 Victoria Street Northcote.
Total project cost: $75,000
Northcote Family Services – Main electrical supply and switchboard Upgrade
During routine maintenance of the main switchboard, it was discovered that the switchboard was non-compliant. The switchboard and CT metering were internal to the building and under the main switchboard. There was no way of isolating the main supply and there were copper live busbars.
The project took several years to complete due to the difficulty with Citipower allocating time and a project manager to their works. Once approval was granted and Citipower agreed to the works the following was completed:
- Upgrade of the main switchboard and relocation of the CT metering and main isolating device external of the building as per current standards.
- The electrical supply authority was engaged to provide a new supply to the new external switchboard.
- A new main distribution board was installed and new main supply run from the external main switchboard.