PARKS Victoria will temporarily close the Ferntree Gully picnic ground car park, which services the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk in the Dandenong Ranges National Park.
Asphalt works are planned for the car park from Monday, 11 April, until Friday, 15 April.
The popular 1000 Steps walk will remain open to the public during the works, which will include repairs to potholes, asphalting and new line-marking.
Parks Victoria Area Chief Ranger, Matt Hoogland, said the works were much-needed.
“The works to repair potholes and refresh line marking in the car park are crucial for ensuring safe pedestrian and vehicle access for more than half a million visitors who attempt the 1000 Steps each year,” he said.
“The temporary closure of the car park will disrupt access to the 1000 Steps.
“However, the 1000 Steps will remain open during the works.
“We strongly encourage visitors to use public transport or there is limited parking at One Tree Hill.”
Mr Hoogland said pedestrian access through the car park would be maintained for people using public transport and the One Tree Hill car park was located at the top of the 1000 Steps.
He thanked the public for their understanding while the works were taking place.
“Given the popularity of the 1000 Steps, there is no good time to do these essential works,” he said.
“However, the works have been timed to minimise disruptions to the public as much as possible.”
Mr Hoogland reminded the public there are other great nearby parks in the area, such as the National Rhododendron Gardens, Silvan Reservoir, George Tindale Gardens, R.J. Hamer Aboretum and the Pirianda Gardens.
“These parks not only offer a change of scenery but they are also quite spectacular at this time of year, as the gardens begin to transition into their autumn colours,” he said.
For more information, contact 13 19 63 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au.
