Introduction

The City of Mitcham is proposing an upgrade to the Hawthorndene Oval carpark to improve safety and accessibility and better manage ongoing stormwater issues.

The project includes the design of a new sealed carpark, along with a connecting footpath linking the oval to Watahuna Avenue. These improvements will also support the new Community Changeroom Facilities at Hawthorndene Oval, which are due for completion in the coming months.

We understand that parking demand is high during events at the oval, and that overflow parking can impact surrounding streets. This project aims to deliver a safer, more functional carpark that better supports the oval and the wider community, now and into the future.

We are seeking community feedback to help shape the final design and ensure it responds to the needs of local residents, nearby businesses and oval users.

The project involves a range of site improvements to enhance accessibility, safety and usability of the facilities. These works include;

  • sealing of the existing carpark to improve stormwater management and reduce water pooling,
  • constructing two Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant parking spaces adjacent to the new clubroom building in accordance with Australian Standards, and
  • delivering a new footpath that has been carefully located to meet site requirements and provide a direct connection to the new building.

Lighting upgrades will also be installed to support night-time use and potential casual hire of the facilities, with the design ensuring that light spill to surrounding areas is minimised.

What is Council seeking feedback on?

Feedback is being sought primarily on the proposed line marking within the carpark. Line marking is intended to improve safety for both drivers and pedestrians by clearly defining traffic flow, parking spaces and pedestrian movement, helping to separate vehicles from foot traffic.

While formal line marking may reduce the total number of vehicles that can park within the space, it creates a safer, more organised layout that meets compliance requirements and reduces the risk of vehicles being blocked in.

Without line marking, drivers have greater flexibility in how they park, which can allow more cars to fit into the area but may also lead to congestion and increased safety risks.

We would like to understand if the community has a preference for formal linemarking or would prefer the carpark be sealed without linemarking to allow for informal parking.

Next steps

Following community consultation, Council will incorporate feedback into the final design which is scheduled for construction as part of the 2026/27 capital program.