Alsop Park

Alsop Park at 2-4 Mt Pleasant Road has significance as the earliest-known public landscape reserve in Belmont. It was first gazetted in 1880 and by 1886 trees appear to have been planted as the site was known as the plantation. The mature Canary Island Palm trees and associated landscaping make an important aesthetic contribution to this part of Belmont. The only other comparable park in Belmont is the Belmont Heights Neighbourhood Park established after 1913. The only comparable historic park in Belmont is the Belmont Heights Neighbourhood Park established in 1913. Associated with Alsop Park from the latter 20th century is Joseph Alsop, Shire President of the South Barwon Shire in 1940-41. It was named in honour of Alsop in the second half of the 20th century.

Alsop Park at 2-4 Mt Pleasant Road is aesthetically significant at a LOCAL level (AHC D.2, E.1). It demonstrates important visual qualities. These qualities include the mature Canary Island Palm trees, other mature trees, perimeter garden beds and the open grassed areas - the whole forming a triangular layout.

Alsop Park at 2-4 Mt Pleasant Road is historically significant at a LOCAL level (AHC A.4, H.1). It is associated with the 19th century residential development of Belmont, and particularly with the Waverley Estate subdivision of the 1880s when roads were finalised, allowing for a road reserve. In the second half of the 20th century, the site was named Alsop Park in honour of Joseph Alsop, Shire President of the South Barwon Shire in 1940-41.

Overall, Alsop Park at 2-4 Mt Pleasant Road is of LOCAL significance.

References

1. Victoria Government Gazette, 22 October 1880, p. 2623 & 12 November 1880, p.2773.

2. Plan of the Waverley Estate, 14 December 1886, Geelong Heritage Centre maps and plans collection.

3. Parish Plan of Corio, 4 April 1909, Geelong Heritage Centre maps and plans collection, L5915/46.

4. 'A Brief History - Shire of South Barwon Centenary Publication', November 1974, Geelong Heritage Centre.

5. Geelong Advertiser, 27 November 1967.

Group

Parks, Gardens and Trees

Category

Park or Garden Precinct