Melbourne’s Westfield Knox says it will add a number of community-based amenities in its latest $355 million upgrade.

The investment includes a new swimming school concept, a parking management system with license plate recognition and guidance technology, a 2000sqm public library, a full-sized basketball court and an upgraded food court.

Kristian Nicholls, Westfield Knox’s centre manager, said the community has been the “brains trust” behind the planning of the Living Centre transformation.

“Swim schools, basketball courts, libraries and multi-purpose community facilities aren’t things you’d typically associate with your local Westfield centre.

“The input we’ve received from our community to date has made us think differently about how we can better use and optimise the existing space, so we can mean more things to more people.”

At the northern entry to the centre, a new 25m swimming school concept operated by Aquatic Achievers, will offer swimming lessons to children up to 12 years along with other programs and facilities catering to the local community.

The existing food court on Level 2 will be refurbished with more seating options, a large-scale skylight and greenery to accommodate large groups. It will be relocated next year.

A multi-purpose community space and a mini-major retail precinct will also be added to the existing centre. A new glass crushing facility, a food waste composting system, a rooftop solar system and smart bins will be also added.