About the project
The Shire of Boddington is excited to announce that Council has approved the Concept Plan for developing Darminning (Ranford) Pool, in collaboration with a community-led reference group. With careful consideration, the Reference Group has recommended several enhancements to improve the overall experience for visitors.
As a direct result of the community consultation process, Council decided to enhance the project by installing CCTV surveillance. Alongside the recommendations made by the community-led reference group, this addition was recommended to ensure the safety and security of visitors to the area.
The approved enhancements include:
- Installation of a toilet facility
- Expansion of the paved cul-de-sac to accommodate caravans
- Addition of extra parking spaces
- Establishment of a barbecue area with additional seating and shelters
- Installation of CCTV surveillance
Furthermore, strategic tree planting will increase shade around the central area adjacent to the yarning circle, while pathways will be formalised using stabilised bauxite for easier navigation.
In addition to these improvements, the proposed upgrades include the installation of bike racks, and interpretive signage celebrating the cultural heritage and significance of the Tannin Extracts Factory. These enhancements aim to enrich the visitor experience while respecting and honouring the area's cultural and historical heritage.
Relevant documents
Darminning (Ranford) Pool Enhancement Project Masterplan
Project Progress
A community-led reference group was established to assist in developing plans for the enhancement of Darminning (Ranford) Pool. This group formulated several recommendations for the site, which were compiled into a proposal. The proposal was then presented to the community for feedback, with the consultation period ending on Friday, April 12, 2024. Comments collected during this consultation contributed to the final project plan for the site.
Work at Darminning (Ranford) Pool commenced in October 2024 with the planting of ten mature trees and the installation of a reticulation system to ensure proper watering and maintenance of the new plantings, as well as future landscaping efforts.
From November 2024 to January 2025, modifications to the car park were completed to increase the number of available parking bays. A seasonal fire pit was installed, and concrete pads were laid in preparation for the installation of new shelters.
In February 2025, new shelters and tables were installed, along with CCTV cameras and the construction of a bough shelter. A gas barbecue was added to the site, with the bough shelter being completed in March 2025. This bough shelter serves as a meaningful addition, acknowledging the Aboriginal heritage of the area. It was constructed primarily from locally sourced natural timbers, reflecting traditional materials and craftsmanship while incorporating modern elements for durability and long-term use.
In May 2025, a composting toilet will be installed, along with the development of laterite pathways, enhancing both accessibility and sustainability at the site.
Timeline
Upcoming works
May 2025 will see the installation of a composting toilet and the development of laterite pathways, enhancing accessibility and sustainability at the site, and installation of interpretive signage celebrating the cultural heritage of the area and the significance of the Tannin Extracts Factory.