Kananook Commuter Car Park
Commuters across Frankston City and the Mornington Peninsula now have access to a safer, more convenient way to park and ride, with the opening of the new Kananook Car Park.
Delivered by Frankston City Council and the Australian Government, the multi-level facility is located on Council-owned land directly opposite the Kananook Railway Station and the Frankston Stadium – which is about to be redeveloped into a state-of-the-art basketball and gymnastics facility.
The project was made possible through a $22 million investment from the Australian Government and the use of Council-owned land, and provides 325 car spaces, including dedicated bicycle parking and improved access for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
The car park not only supports the growing demand for free accessible rail transport, but during construction, the project is estimated to have generated over 100 local jobs, delivered $8.9 million in wages, and contributed to a total economic output of $53.46 million.
The car park was an advocacy priority project for the Council in 2021-22, with $20 million initially committed by the Australian Government, followed by an additional $2 million in 2022 for the critical associated intersection signalisation and related safety works.
Key features
- Two levels of secure, undercover parking with an open top deck
- Individual car space availability indicator lights with signs indicating available car space numbers on each level
- Safe, clear access points for both vehicles and pedestrians
- Dedicated bicycle parking in a lobby area
- Pathway improvements and landscaping with art sculpture on the Wells Road frontage
- New traffic signals to enhance pedestrian safety and traffic flow
- Close proximity to major roads, residential areas, and recreational facilities (Kananook Reserve and Frankston Stadium)
- CCTV at key locations throughout the car park including entry and exit point
Site selection and design
Community access and site suitability were front of mind when choosing the location and design, with the car park constructed on land already zoned for commercial infrastructure to minimise environmental impact.
The car park exterior features a representation of nearby Kananook Creek, depicting the gentle course of our local waterway across the side of the structure. One of Frankston’s most beautiful natural environments, Kananook Creek runs for 7.5 km parallel to the coastline linking Seaford Wetlands to the Frankston Foreshore.
This design element, in conjunction with landscaping and feature lighting aims to integrate the structure with the natural environment while ensuring it remains a safe, modern and functional facility.
The design is complemented by the onsite public art, Meander, a stainless steel sculpture by Ben Fasham featuring a patinated blue sphere. The finish on the stainless steel reflects the shimmering of the water in Kananook Creek and the straight lines represent the flow of the water, whilst the blue sphere serves as a vibrant focal point, adding contrast and visual interest.
Outside peak commute times, the car park will support access to adjacent recreational and sporting facilities, further enhancing the area’s appeal to visitors and residents.
Central to these facilites is the $60m Frankston Stadium redevelopment, which will see a 10-court facility, including a 1000 spectator show court, and Frankston’s first purpose-built community gymnastics hall constructed next door to the car park. Building on the stadium starts mid-2025, with completion expected in two years, taking the overall investment in the precinct to $85 million.
These two projects are the latest examples of Frankston City Council delivering on its vision to be a well-connected, thriving, and liveable city.