THE SPORTS WALK CONNECTION

Monash University’s new Sports Walk provides a bridge between essential services.

Monash University has recently taken on the challenge of reimagining an essential component of the university’s Clayton Sports Precinct: the Victoria Heart Hospital Sports Walk Connection.

To undertake the project, which spanned over 12 months and involved detailed planning, innovative design and seamless collaboration between multiple stakeholders, Monash engaged the services of landscape specialists PTA Landscapes.

More than just a pathway, the Sports Walk Connection is an architectural and functional feature that links the university’s renowned sports facilities with the Victorian Heart Hospital, offering a seamless and scenic route for students, staff and visitors. Built in stages to allow for concurrent upgrades to the sports fending and sports netting, undertaken by the university, PTA Landscapes was able to ensure minimal disruption to the campus while enhancing the overall infrastructure.

The design of the new Sports Walk Connection was conceptualised by Glas Landscape Architecture, whose vision was to create an attractive, functional and sustainable pathway. The finished design was supported by Wrap Consulting Engineering and OPS Engineers, ensuring that all technical aspects of the project—from the structural integrity of the walkway to project services and its environmental impact were carefully considered.

The Sports Walk itself includes several key elements. A central pathway forms the heart of the project — a crucial link between the sports precinct and the Victorian Heart Hospital. The walk itself is built on a structural concrete raft slab and finished with alternating chevron patterns in slate grey and light grey rubber granules, providing both durability and visual appeal. Running along the length of the Sports Walk, rain gardens are a sustainable feature that manages stormwater runoff. The specially designed soil profiles and plants filter and clean surface water before it enters the stormwater system, contributing to environmental conservation. This integration of nature into urban design not only serves as a functional water management system, it also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the walkway.

Custom-made seating and rest points line the edges of the corridor, offering visitors comfortable spots to relax, socialise or spectate the activities on the nearby sports fields. These functional design elements encourage interaction and enhance the user experience.

As the walkway approaches the Victorian Heart Hospital there is a notable change in ground levels. To overcome this, PTA Landscapes constructed a boulder amphitheatre, which serves as both a functional and artistic feature, using local split-faced mudstone and silver-grey Harcourt granite to create bleacher seating. Hardwood timber seats are strategically placed throughout, providing visitors with relaxing spaces to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.

A set of DDA-compliant stairs was also integrated into the amphitheatre, ensuring accessibility for all. The stairs are paved with basalt, featuring granite inlays and stainless-steel tactile markers for enhanced safety. The stairs are equipped with double handrails, ensuring a secure and easy passage for all users. For those with mobility requirements, an aerial walkway was constructed to provide barrier-free access designed for wheelchair users, trolleys or anyone needing the ramp.

A significant part of the project involved the construction of Tan Track South, which now features an asphalt sub-grade with a rubberised surface made from a 50/50 mix of beige and earth yellow rubber granules. This surface is both durable and high-performing, providing athletes with a smooth and comfortable track for training and events.

This project is a prime example of successful collaboration between landscape architects, engineers and contractors. The integration of the rain gardens, sustainable materials and accessibility features ensures that the Victorian Heart Hospital Sports Walk Connection will be a long-lasting and functional asset for the Monash University community.

PROJECT PARTICULARS
Client Monash University
Location Clayton, Victoria
Landscape Architect Glas Landscape Architecture
Landscape Contractor PTA Landscapes