The Merri Common and Surrounds Open Space Improvement Project aims to enhance accessibility, connectivity, and overall amenity across four parks in Northcote:

• Merri Common
• Caddayes Corner
• Peters Reserve
• Green Memorial Reserve.

Planned improvements include new pathways, additional seating, tree and understory planting and an upgrade to the existing playground at Peters Reserve.

Project Background

Merri Common has long been valued by the local community. Since the 1980s, community groups such as the former Merri Action Group and the Merri Stationeers have contributed to its upkeep, planting many of the trees we see today and maintaining the space for residents, commuters, and wildlife.

In 2022, the Victorian Government allocated $1.5 million towards open space improvements at Merri Common through the Better Parks and Playgrounds Program. Council successfully applied for this funding, expanding the project to include additional sites. Since then, we have been working with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) to finalise the scope of works.

Draft Concept Designs have now been developed, and we have sought community feedback to ensure the improvements meet local needs.

We wish to thank you for all of the feedback you have provided to the proposed designs. Your input has helped guide the final plans for these open spaces. Officers have now assessed all of the feedback provided through the process and is set to provide a report to Council on the outcome of this work at the Council Meeting on the 22 September, 2025.

What is happening at Merri Common?

• Site connectivity and pathway improvements.
• Replacement of existing seating and picnic table.
• Installation of additional seating.
• Beautification works including indigenous plants, trees and mulch.

We'd like to know what other improvements you'd like to see. Please look at the draft concept design before you complete the survey to have your say.

What is happening at Caddayes Corner?

• Site connectivity and pathway improvements to enhance design, appeal, activity, and accessibility.

• Beautification works, including planting, trees, and mulch.

We'd like to know what other improvements you'd like to see. Please look at the draft concept design before you complete the survey to have your say.

What is happening at Peters Reserve?

• New playspace and natural play ground equipment.
• Site connectivity and pathway improvements.
• Existing seating and picnic table to be retained and renewed.
• New picnic table and informal/natural seating.
• Beautification works including indigenous plants, trees and mulch.
• Replacement of rubbish and recycling bins.

We'd like to know what other improvements you'd like to see. Please look at the draft concept design before you complete the survey to have your say.

What is happening at Green Memorial Reserve?

- New wayfinding signage.

Please note, while this site is included in the project, no community engagement will be undertaken. Installation of signage will be the only change happening at Green Memorial Reserve. Please see the draft concept design for the proposed location of new signage.