OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION NEEDS STUDY PreparedforCityofSydney
Volume 1 - The Strategy Draft Report
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
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The information contained in this report is intended for the specific use of the within named party to which it is addressed ("the Stratcorp Consulting client") only. All recommendations by Stratcorp Consulting are based on information provided by or on behalf of the Stratcorp Consulting client and Stratcorp Consulting has relied on such information being correct at the time this report is prepared.
Stratcorp Consulting shall take no responsibility for any loss or damage caused to the Stratcorp Consulting client or to any third party whether direct or consequential as a result of or in any way arising from any unauthorised use of this report or any recommendations contained within.
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Recognition of Indigenous Australians
Council recognises the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation are the traditional custodians of the land. It recognises and celebrates the rich culture and strong community values that Indigenous Australians continue to provide to the City of Sydney today, and acknowledges the Indigenous community’s right to self determination.
(City of Sydney Social Policy & Social Plan 2006-2010)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................. 1
1. 1.1.
Context ............................................................................................................................................................................ 1
1.2.
Why is Open Space So Important? ..................................................................................................................... 2
1.3.
What is an Open Space and Recreation Needs Study? ............................................................................ 3
1.3.1.
Need for the Study ............................................................................................................................................ 3
1.3.2.
Study Aims and Objectives............................................................................................................................ 3
1.3.3.
Study Methodology ........................................................................................................................................... 4
1.3.4.
Study Scope ......................................................................................................................................................... 5
1.3.5.
Definitions ............................................................................................................................................................. 6
2.
REPORT STRUCTURE....................................................................................... 7
3.
STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK............................................................................... 8
4.
KEY ISSUES INFLUENCING THE STRATEGY OUTCOMES ....................... 10
5.
COS OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION STRATEGY ................................... 13
5.1.
Overall Strategic Aim .............................................................................................................................................. 13
5.2.
Guiding Principles .................................................................................................................................................... 13
5.3.
Key Strategic Directions ........................................................................................................................................ 15
6.
STRATEGY ACTION PLAN ............................................................................. 16
7.
CONCLUSION ................................................................................................... 74
APPENDICES Appendix 1 – Strategy Map showing Key Strategic Directions and Projects Appendix 2 – Map showing Open Space Catchment Areas Appendix 3 – Open Space and Recreation Facility Project Initiatives Appendix 4 – Open Space Acquisition Criteria Appendix 5 – Recreation Precinct Parks Appendix 6 – Playground Facility Assessments and Directions and Map of Existing Provision
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1.
INTRODUCTION
1.1. Context The City of Sydney covers an area of 26.15 square kilometres (or 2,615 hectares) with a population of approximately 150,000 people. The City owns or manages approximately 187 Ha of public open space and when combined with the public open space which is managed by other authorities, there is a total of 374 hectares. This represents 14.3 % of the City’s total land area. In general, the City of Sydney consists of three distinctive areas that have influenced the character and distribution of the City’s open space network. These are: 1. Central Business District (CBD) The CBD features some of the most iconic and beautiful parks within Sydney City, most of which are a legacy of the foresight of past civic and community leaders. Hyde Park was Australia’s first public park dedicated by Governor Macquarie in 1810. The Domain was set aside in 1788 as the Governor’s private domain and was later opened to the public in the 1830’s. Centennial Park was created in 1888 to commemorate 100 years of British settlement. The development of these major public parks was born out of Nineteenth Century Parks Movement where urbanisation increased the need to maintain public health for City residents by providing spaces people could gain fresh air, contact with nature, exercise, rest and relaxation. Public Parks were also seen as symbols of modern democracy where people of all levels of society could freely mix. 2. Residential Areas The residential areas accommodate a variety of densities and housing types, ranging from traditional Victorian and Federation architecture, to medium density housing developments. Established residential areas fringing the CBD consist mainly of terrace housing which in many instances have open space incorporated into the layout and design of the suburbs. Examples of the open space provision in these areas include Redfern Park, Alexandria Park, Dr HJ Foley Park and Hollis Park. Other suburbs, such as Rosebery, consist predominantly of single storey houses on large blocks which provide these residents with a traditional “backyard” in which some recreation activities can occur. Green Square and Pyrmont/Ultimo are major urban renewal areas with the conversion of previous industrial uses into medium density residential areas. These areas have provided the opportunity to plan for the establishment of an open space network as part of the public domain and development consent process. 3. Southern Industrial Area The southern part of Sydney City includes the suburbs of Alexandria and St Peters and consists predominantly of large industrial blocks with a coarse grain street network. Although this area has a low residential population base it contains the largest park in the City’s network, Sydney Park.
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1.2. Why is Open Space So Important? Open space is not only for recreation and conservation of environmental and cultural values, it is the foundation of urban liveability. It underpins many social, ecological and economic benefits that are essential to the healthy functioning of the urban environment. Source: Linking People and Spaces, Parks Victoria (2002)
Research by the Sydney Urban Parks Education Research (SUPER) group suggests that there is a strong link between good parks and open space systems, and a healthy and vibrant society. Identified benefits include:
Promote physical exercise.
Foster social connectedness.
Provide space for people to enjoy recreational activities.
Provide escape from urban environment.
Provide areas for children to safely explore the natural environment.
Provide environmental corridors / connection with nature.
Provide places to celebrate a city’s culture and heritage.
The following figure outlines the key social, environmental and economic benefits to be gained from open space.
Social Benefit
Economic Benefit
Health & Fitness Social Interaction Spiritual Renewal Community Development
Recreation & Tourism Events Value to surrounding properties
Values of Open Space
Environmental Benefit Biodiversity Stormwater runoff reduction Microclimate Contact with nature
Source: Modified SUPER model
From the perspective of financial values, public open space represents a substantial real estate asset for the City of Sydney worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Many millions of dollars are also expended in acquiring, improving and maintaining these areas. No. 03A City of Sydney Open Space Strategy - Volume 1 - The Strategy(161006).doc
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1.3. What is an Open Space and Recreation Needs Study? The City of Sydney Open Space and Recreation Needs Study provides Council and other stakeholders with the necessary strategic direction and framework with which to improve the provision of open space and recreation facilities. The Strategy provides a series of objectives, directions and recommendations for the future planning, provision, development and management of public open space and recreation facilities located within the City of Sydney.
1.3.1. Need for the Study The amalgamation of City of Sydney, the former City of South Sydney and sections of the Leichhardt Council Area has presented numerous challenges with the formation of a larger open space network and increased population densities due to high levels of urban growth over the past decade. The Open Space and Recreation Needs Study has provided the opportunity to undertake a comprehensive assessment and review of the City’s open space and recreation network, in order to:
Ensure that the quality of open space and recreation facilities is sustained and enhanced into the future.
Respond to forecast increases and changes in the population distribution, density and profile.
Ensure that the range of open space and recreation facility related planning documents, policies and strategies that affect Council are integrated into one plan.
Ensure trends in the community’s use of open space and recreation are considered and accommodated, where possible.
Ensure “best practice” planning and management of open space and recreation facilities.
1.3.2. Study Aims and Objectives The aim of the Study is to assist the City to deliver over the next 10 - 20 years a cohesive, linked and well-managed system of open space, and sporting and recreation facilities to meet a full range of recreational needs. The principle objectives of the Study are: 1. To respond to the community’s changing needs for access and use of open space and recreation facilities. 2. To protect and improve open space and recreation facility provision in terms of quality, quantity, accessibility and safety. 3. To improve linkages within and between the open space network. 4. To ensure open spaces and recreation facilities meet the needs of local people and promote greater social inclusion. 5. To ensure open spaces enhance the quality of the local environment.
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6. To provide direction on capital works priorities and action. 7. To encourage and facilitate partnerships with community and other public and private stakeholders for the planning, provision, development and management of open space and recreation facilities.
1.3.3. Study Methodology When undertaking the Study a number of assessments were carried out, including:
A quantity audit – the number and area of open space and recreation facilities.
A distribution assessment – where are the open space and recreation facilities located?
A diversity assessment - what are the range of open space types and recreation facilities provided?
An accessibility audit – how far do people have to walk to open space and recreation facilities and what are the barriers that inhibit access.
A quality audit - the appearance, condition and functionality of open space and recreation facilities.
Community consultation – what do people think of our open space and recreation facilities, and are they meeting current and likely future recreation needs?
Demographic analysis – how might the projections for population growth and distribution affect open space and recreation facility provision?
Assessment of recreation trends.
Document review of City of Sydney and State Government plans and strategies that have implications for open space and recreation as well as an assessment of best practice open space strategies developed in Australia and overseas.
From these assessments …… 1. Gaps in the existing open space and recreation facilities network were identified and recommendations developed for where parks, reserves and recreation facilities are required. 2. Opportunities were identified for improving linkages and accessibility between and within open space areas. 3. Improvements were identified for existing parks and reserves in order to improve their usability and to better meet the needs of the City’s population. 4. Guidelines developed for appropriate siting, provision and management of open space and recreation facilities to better meet existing and future needs.
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1.3.4. Study Scope The Study is primarily focussed on public land that is set aside with unrestricted public access, and for which the City of Sydney has either ownership, Trustee management, or care control and management responsibility. However, located within and directly adjacent to the City are public open space and recreation facility assets managed by other authorities that need to be taken into account in determining community access and amenity. These include land under the management of:
Centennial and Moore Park Trust.
Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust.
Sydney Harbour and Foreshores Authority.
Roads and Traffic Authority.
State Rail Corporation.
Department of Housing.
Redfern Waterloo Authority.
State Rail Authority.
Sydney University.
Adjoining Councils.
The reasoning for considering these areas is that although these parks and recreation facilities are not the responsibility of the City of Sydney, they provide recreation amenity for Sydney City’s residents, workers, and visitors, as well as links to and from adjoining local government areas. It is noted, however, that the City has no jurisdiction on the management of these lands, and any strategic directions in this Strategy that implicate these lands will need the concurrence of the managing authority. Streetscapes in the form of footpath widenings are an important part of the public domain, however, are not considered by this Strategy in the quantum of available open space. For this Strategy, only street closures that provide tangible recreational or amenity value are considered in the assessment of open space provision and amenity. Some spaces and facilities on other public lands, such as school playgrounds, have also not been included in the scope of the study as these assets are primarily created to serve the recreational needs of specific users (e.g. students), and are not managed by the City of Sydney. Similarly, private open space and recreation facilities (e.g. fitness gymnasiums) which have “gated” access have not been included within the scope of the study as the City of Sydney does not have ongoing management responsibilities and wider the community does not have unrestricted access to these assets.
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1.3.5. Definitions Open Space – includes all publicly owned land that is set aside with unrestricted public access, and managed exclusively for leisure, recreation, and amenity. Recreation – term to describe freely chosen activities usually in free-time which generate feelings such as enjoyment, relaxation and satisfaction. This can encompass a very broad spectrum of activities, such as going to the cinema or café, however for the purpose of this Strategy, the term “recreation” is limited to activities that promote physical fitness and health. Open Space Network – term used to collectively describe all the open space areas, parks and reserves, and the links between them. Recreation Facilities – includes facilities located in the open space network that allow both organised sport and unstructured recreation activity, such as walking, cycling, play, dog exercising, etc. Indoor sporting and recreation centres, indoor court spaces, and aquatic facilities are also included in this definition. Planning Districts - the City of Sydney local government area has been divided into the following nine planning districts which generally follow the zones developed for the Local Action Plan project. (Figure XX)
Planning District
Suburbs
Central Business District
Sydney, The Rocks, Dawes Point, Millers Point, Darling Harbour
City East
Potts Point, Elizabeth Bay, Woolloomooloo, Rushcutters Bay, Darlinghurst
Inner East
Paddington (south of Oxford Street), Surrey Hills, East Redfern, Moore Park
Inner South
Redfern, Waterloo
South East
Zetland, Beaconsfield, Rosebery
South West
Alexandria, St Peters (Burrows Road precinct only)
Inner West
Erskineville, Newtown (east of Church Street), Camperdown (east of Mallett Street), Chippendale, Darlington, Eveleigh
North West
Glebe, Glebe Point, Camperdown (north of Parramatta Road), Forest Lodge
City West
Ultimo, Pyrmont
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2.
REPORT STRUCTURE The City of Sydney Open Space and Recreation Needs Study report comprises two volumes of information, as outlined in the following diagram.
Background
VOLUME 1 The Strategy
Strategic Framework
What is the City's Response?
Context
THE STRATEGY
Open Space and Recreation Facility Assessment Quality Distribution Diversity Quality Accessibility
VOLUME 2 Research and Analysis
What are the Influencing Factors?
Demographics
Document Review
Demand and Trend Analysis
Consultation Outcomes
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3.
STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK The Open Space and Recreation Needs Study will be a key document shaping the City’s open space and recreation needs directions and priorities for the future. However, to be most effective it cannot exist as an isolated document. The Strategy sits within a broader policy framework that includes open space policies, adopted by State Government as well as documents prepared by City of Sydney that include open space directions. These documents will influence the way in which open space is planned, managed and maintained, and indeed many of the actions listed in the Strategy are derived from a range of different documents that relate to the City of Sydney LGA. Following is a summary of key documents that have been referred to in the preparation of this Strategy, or are identified as being key documents that will be concurrent with the implementation of the Strategy in the future. State Government Policies and Strategies
City of Cities Metropolitan Strategy 2006.
Metropolitan Green Space Strategy.
Sharing Sydney Harbour.
Redfern Waterloo Authority Plans.
Built Environment Plan 2006. Australian Technology Park Public Domain Plan.
Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority Plans.
East Darling Harbour Master Plan. Bank Street Master Plan. Foreshore Promenade Strategy (for core SHFA land within Pyrmont Peninsula).
City of Sydney (CoS) Policies and Strategies
CoS Strategic Plan 2006-2009.
CoS Social Policy and Social Plan 2006-2010.
Local Environmental Plans.
Development Control Plans.
Draft South Sydney Open Space and Recreation Study 2004.
CoS Cycle Plan 2006.
Draft CoS Pedestrian Plan 2006.
CoS Youth Interagency Youth Strategy and Action Plan (2006).
CoS Youth Facilities and Skate Facility Plan 2006.
CoS Tree Management Policy 2005.
CoS Street Tree Master Plan 2005.
Draft Exterior Lighting Strategy 2006.
CoS Aquatics Facility Strategy 2005.
Specific Park Plans of Management and Master Plans.
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Green Square Planning Documents.
Key development site master plans – CUB, Ashmore Estate, Green Square Town Centre.
City Plan strategic urban design studies – City East, Surry Hills, Glebe /Forest Lodge.
City of Villages Local Action Plans.
A review of these documents is included in Volume 2 – Research & Analysis of the Strategy.
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4.
KEY ISSUES INFLUENCING THE STRATEGY OUTCOMES A number of key issues and themes emerged from the assessment of the current provision of open space and recreation facilities within the City of Sydney (refer Volume 2 – Research & Analysis) which have informed and been the basis for the strategy development process. This section provides a high-level summary of the critical issues and needs for open space and recreation facilities in City of Sydney, as identified through the site and facility assessments, consultation processes and background research. The various issues and needs have been categorised to enable like issues to be grouped together. The categories and key issues identified are: 1. Open Space Provision
Distribution of open space across the City is uneven.
Relationship between open space and population is inconsistent.
High numbers of very small parks constrain diversity.
Local gaps in provision require acquisition or improved access.
Growth areas require early action for future provision.
Need for more strategic approach to future provision.
50% of open space in the City is not controlled by Council.
2. Accessibility
Accessibility to local parks is highly variable across the City.
Significant barriers exist to parks access and require address.
Access for people with a disability is improving but uneven.
Cycle and pedestrian access requires ongoing action.
Public transport access especially for youth sports / activities needs focus.
Car dependency for access to district parks is increasing.
Links between parks and movement-oriented recreation has had only recent focus.
3. Facility Mix, Diversity and Functionality
Current upgrade program for major parks will enhance diversity.
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Unmet recreation needs require address.
Growing demand and competition for sports facilities
Many sports facilities require optimising for increased multi–use.
Use of new technology (artificial surfaces, water recycling, lighting, etc) is needed to extend sport capacity.
Playground provision is limited in age range target.
Support facilities, such as toilets, bubblers, amenity lighting, signage, etc. are often in poor condition or underprovided.
Strategic approach required to ensure adequate and suitable dog offleash areas.
More facilities and choices to support women’s involvement in sport are required. (eg netball courts)
Youth recreation provision is often poorly targeted.
4. Quality and Amenity
Many parks in the City are of a very high standard but this is not consistent across the City.
Basic amenity provision and its quality in parks of all sizes and types are often inadequate (e.g. sun shade, seating, paths, etc.).
Safety is generally improving through park upgrades but still requires further action.
Facilities and design at many parks provide limited reflection of local character.
Ageing amenity infrastructure and support buildings for sporting facilities will be a continual challenge (asset renewal).
Condition of many sports fields is average to poor during winter season due primarily to overuse.
5. Community
Physical inactivity and obesity, and their impact on health & well being, is closely related to access and opportunity.
Role of parks in facilitating social interaction, connectedness and community building needs closer focus.
There is limited existing joint-use of recreation facilities located on Department of Education land in the City.
Interpretation of local heritage needs more attention, especially for new communities.
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Increased stakeholder consultation is increasing community ‘ownership’ of the City’s parks.
6. Environment
Impact of water restrictions still evident across the park system.
Current initiatives on water recycling require a major expansion across the whole park system.
Parks and infrastructure corridors have not adequately addressed improvements in habitat linkage across the City.
Safety improvements in parks (improved visibility) are limiting opportunities for significant habitat creation by limiting shrub use.
Environmental sustainability through materials conservation, re-use and life cycle evaluation is not well addressed.
7. Planning, Management and Maintenance
Park management and maintenance standards/levels of service have not been tailored to park type, setting and size.
Substantial capital works phase will lead to a need for comprehensive asset management systems to maintain quality and upkeep.
Numerous small parks present major resourcing and cost challenges for maintenance.
Overuse of sporting fields is having major maintenance impacts.
Sports allocations require a new approach to sport user involvement to ensure equity of opportunity, given growing competition.
Much of the sporting infrastructure is ageing presenting challenges for asset and risk management.
Lack of strategic partnerships with other public and private providers leaves the City vulnerable to third party changes.
There remain many inappropriate buildings in parks despite ongoing rationalisations.
Succession plans for heritage landscapes – replacement of senescent trees, etc. need to be developed through the preparation of Tree Management Plans.
Companion Animal Strategies need to be coordinated across the open space network.
Homeless person’s use of open space requires a clearer and sensitive approach.
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5.
COS OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION STRATEGY From issues raised and research conducted, the City of Sydney Open Space & Recreation Strategy has been developed utilising the following planning elements: 1. Overall Strategic Aim. 2. Commitment. 3. Guiding Principles. 4. Key Strategic Directions.
5.1. Overall Strategic Aim The Overall Strategic Aim for the planning, management and delivery of the City of Sydney’s open space network and recreation facility provision is ………………. The City of Sydney’s parks and recreation facilities will be a source of pride for the City and all of the community. The Overall Strategic Aim will be achieved by the following Commitment by the City ………………. The City of Sydney’s parks and recreation facilities will be well designed, well maintained and environmentally sustainable to ensure people of all ages, abilities and cultures can participate in their choice of fun, social, healthy and safe recreation.
5.2. Guiding Principles Considerable research has been carried out in the United Kingdom and United States on determining key principles for successful public open space and recreation facilities. Details of the research undertaken by organisations such as the Commission for Architecture and Built Environment (CABE) in the UK and the Trust for Public Land in the USA on successful public spaces and recreation facilities are included in Volume 2 – Research & Analysis. In reviewing the outcomes of the best practice research, it is evident that there are common Principles for successful public open space and recreation facility networks. These Principles have been brought together to provide key directions to be used to guide the provision of public spaces and recreation facilities for the City of Sydney. A “great” parks and recreation facilities network shall be underpinned by the Guiding Principles outlined on the following page.
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Guiding Principles for the Provision of Open Space and Recreation Facilities within the City of Sydney
INCLUSIVE AND INTEGRATED
A network that is linked, visible, easy to get to and useful for all the community.
DIVERSE
A network that provides opportunities for a range of activities and settings targeting different age groups and interests.
COMFORTABLE AND WELCOMING
A network that through its visual appearance, range of facilities, and standards of maintenance, creates a place that is pleasant to spend time in.
ATTRACTIVE
A network that is well designed, has its own identity, and is visually pleasing.
SOCIABLE
A network that provides places to meet other people and is an integral part of community life.
DISTINCTIVE
A network with a distinctive character that recognises and responds to natural, heritage, and cultural features.
SAFE
A network that has high levels of surveillance and other measures to ensure people feel safe at all times.
ROBUST
A network that stands up to the pressures of everyday use.
GREEN
A network that provides contact with nature and increased biodiversity.
VALUED BY THE COMMUNITY
A network that involves the community in its planning and ongoing management.
WELL CARED FOR
A network that is clean, sustainable and well maintained.
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5.3. Key Strategic Directions The Key Strategic Directions of the City of Sydney Open Space & Recreation Strategy that will facilitate achievement and delivery of the Overall Strategic Aim are: 1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Provide an appropriate range and distribution of recreational and sporting opportunities. 2. Access to Recreation in the City Will Be For All Provide opportunities for all of the community to use and enjoy our parks and recreation facilities. 3. A Park Close to Home and Work Improving the provision of open space and recreation facilities. 4. Linking the Network Achieving a cohesive and linked open space and recreation facility network. 5. Better Parks and Facilities Improving the quality of open space and recreation facilities. 6. Involving the Community Encouraging participation in open space and recreation facility development and use. 7. Recreation Will Be Environmentally Sustainable in the City Bringing nature into the City. 8. Looking After Our Parks and Recreation Facilities Efficient and effective planning, management and maintenance of our resources.
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6.
STRATEGY ACTION PLAN The Strategy Action Plan outlined on the following pages is essentially a “work plan” for Council and other stakeholders in relation to the continued improvement and development of open space and recreation facility provision within the City of Sydney. The Strategy Action Plan further breaks down each of the 8 Key Directions into a number of Strategies and Actions which collectively will contribute to the successful implementation of the City of Sydney Open Space & Recreation Strategy. All Strategies and Actions have been allocated the following characteristics to assist with implementation:
Link to any existing reference documents, including Project Initiative Sheets that provide planning and development direction for specific parks and recreation facilities (See Appendix 3).
A priority for implementation, where:
Short-term / underway - now to 2007 Medium term – 2008 - 2009 Long term – 2010 and beyond
Important Notes: The Implementation Plan includes proposed recommendations and directions for public open space and recreation facilities controlled by the City of Sydney and a range of other organisations. Assets controlled by other organisations have been included in the scope of this study because they provide important recreation amenity for residents, workers and visitors, as well as links to and from adjoining local government areas. It is noted, however, that the Sydney City Council has no control over these sites and any strategic directions that implicate them will ultimately need to be determined by the relevant managing authority. Also, the Implementation Plan is not intended to commit any organisation to a responsibility for funding and/or project management of specific projects, rather it is a guide to assessing which organisation(s) might in fact be the most appropriate to have carriage of the project. It must be recognised that depending on the scale and likely impact of selected projects and initiatives outlined in the Implementation Plan, a further detailed investigation and analysis of specific issues might be required to be carried out prior to a project commencing. Legend for abbreviations used in the table: CoS = Council of the City of Sydney SHFA = Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority SU = Sydney University CP = Centennial Parklands DIPNR = Department of Infrastructure, Planning & Natural Resources RTA = Roads and Traffic Authority BGT = Botanic Gardens Trust
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Provide an appropriate range and distribution of recreational and sporting opportunities.
The diverse needs for active and unstructured recreation need to be met. The City will strive to provide an accessible and equitable distribution of different types of open space and recreation facilities in order to accommodate the needs of people of all abilities, cultures and ages both now and into the future. The City’s direction will be to develop recreation activity nodes within the larger parks that colocate a mix of compatible and complementary recreation activities that provide numerous things to do and experience. An integrated approach to planning recreational activity nodes will create opportunities for greater social interaction, lower the proportion of trips made by car and increase the viability of the co-located facilities. As a general principle, the multiple use of open space will be encouraged where proposed uses are safe and compatible.
1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available
1.
Strategic Directions Objectives Recreation Precincts Proposed new Develop a recreation precinct network of park at Green Square Recreation to include an integrated Precinct Parks. aquatic, health & fitness and indoor multipurpose space centre and outdoor family recreation areas (including playground, skate and BBQ/picnic areas) and sports field. Proposed new recreation precinct park at East Darling Harbour (SHFA) recommended to include formal boulevard and plaza areas integrated with the proposed harbour side shared path system and expansive open grassland areas with capacity to accommodate a variety
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
Recreation Precinct Parks to contain a diversity of structured and unstructured recreation opportunities at the one location. Develop the following parks as Recreation Activity Nodes with a facility mix as per Appendix 5. Existing Parks
Prince Alfred Park Redfern Park Rushcutters Bay Park. Sydney Park. Perry Park. Glebe Foreshore Parklands.
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Prince Alfred Park PoM 2005 Redfern Park Master Plan 2006 Sydney Park Master Plan 2006 Glebe Foreshore Master Plan © Stratcorp Consulting 2006
Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Develop a network of Recreation Precinct Parks (cont.)
Directions of unstructured and structured recreation activities suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds (such as 6-a-side touch/soccer matches for City workers and 3-on-3 basketball for young people).
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Erskineville Oval/Harry Noble Reserve.
Priority
Reference Documents Appendix 3 Project Sheet 29 Appendix 3 Project Sheet 25 Appendix 3 Project Sheet 8 Appendix 3 Project Sheet 23 Appendix 3 Project Sheet 18
Wentworth Park. Victoria Park. Cook and Phillip Park/Domain. Waterloo Park. Alexandria Park. Turruwul Park
Turruwul Park PoM 2006
Proposed Recreation Precinct Parks Appendix 3 Project Sheet 35 Appendix 3 Project Sheet 39 Draft Redfern Park PoM 2006
Green Square East Darling Harbour. (SHFA) 2.
Increase multipurpose use of the open space network.
Optimise the recreational use of existing open space through multi-using, design flexibility and allocation (refer Vol 2, Section 16.2). Allow access to sports fields for unstructured recreation when not in use for sporting activity. Sites include:
Redfern Park. Erskineville Oval. Waterloo Oval. Turruwul Park. Wentworth Park. Alexandria Park. Federal / Jubilee Park.
Allow restricted use of informal open space areas for structured sporting activities, mainly to accommodate sporting competitions for City workers (i.e. day time midweek).
Undertake works to Redfern Park sports ground to improve public access and visibility. Investigate the practicality and feasibility of re-profiling the spectator mounds at Erskineville Oval (along the eastern edge) to extend the provision of flexible open space for sporting or other recreation activities. Carry out desktop/field survey to identify private-owned sites that may have potential for short-term use as recreational venues or cultural/community event venues, and approach owners with a commercial proposition. Sites could include:
Car park at rear Pyrmont Community Centre. Harold Park Paceway infield.
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Increase multipurpose use of the open space network (cont.)
Directions Sites include:
3.
Promote use of open space network for cultural and community events, celebrations, markets, busking, meeting spaces and other events.
Sydney Park (Euston Road side). Prince Alfred Park. Perry Park. The Domain (liaise Botanic Gardens) Western edge of Sir John Young Crescent, Sydney and Domain Car Park forecourt (liaise BGT).
Identify activity areas within specific parks, reserves and urban areas suitable for use for cultural and community events, markets, busking, meeting spaces and other events. (Appendix XX) Sites include:
Martin Place. Wynyard Park Taylor Square. Hyde Park. Cook Park and Phillip Park. Pyrmont Point Park. Pyrmont Bay Park. Prince Alfred Park. Shannon Reserve. Joynton Park. Harmony Park. Redfern Park. Belmore Park. Observatory Hill Park. Sydney Park. Bicentennial / Federal Park. Fitzroy Gardens.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Rooftops suitable to accommodate synthetic turf surfaces for sporting and recreation uses
Priority
Reference Documents
Hyde Park PoM event strategies
Develop an Outdoor Events Management Policy.
Appendix XX Events
Develop Event Management Guidelines to regulate the use of designated open space areas for varied outdoor events and activities, such as markets, busking, and public meetings. Ensure that event spaces are provided with appropriate infrastructure to support ongoing usage including:
Three phase power. Water. Temporary connections to sewer, if available.
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4.
5.
Strategic Objectives Aquatic Facilities Provide a network of outdoor and indoor aquatic and related facilities.
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
Aquatic facilities to collectively accommodate recreational, training, competition, learn to swim, health and general fitness needs of City residents, workers and visitors.
Complete and commission the Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, Ultimo.
Develop a mix of facilities and programs so that the centres each have a point of difference whilst collectively complementing each other.
Upgrade Prince Alfred Park Pool as a low cost local outdoor facility.
Prince Alfred Park PoM 2005
Prepare a master plan and feasibility study for a new aquatic and leisure facility at Green Square.
Aquatic Needs Strategy 2005
Develop a CoS Playground Facility Guidelines that provides design direction for playground hierarchy levels in relation to:
Appendix 6 Playground Facility Assessments and Directions
Playground Facilities Aim to provide a Create a quality playground facility network of play network to reflect local, environments neighbourhood, district and facilities to and regional needs. meet the needs of children and Aim for the network to carers. provide greater diversity of structured play spaces and access to natural environments. Where possible integrate playground facilities with other sport and recreation facilities Improve play space and play provision in terms of quality, quantity, accessibility and safety. Key future playground upgrade programs should address:
Full age-range play provision at each of the City’s major parks. Toddler to minimum 10 year olds at larger Local
Complete the upgrade of the Victoria Park Pool (new multipurpose room).
Equipment selection that offers maximum play value. Development of local playground networks that offer diversity in play themes. Best practice examples of playground environments. Development of play environments that are not based on traditional equipment or soft fall provision.
Complete current local park playground improvement program.
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Create a quality network of play environments and facilities to meet the needs of children and carers (cont.)
Directions
6.
Improve the child friendly city status of the CBD.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
Parks, subject to accessibility to larger parks in the locality. Toddler provision primarily at the smallest local parks. Emphasis on integrating nature, art and exploration opportunities, wherever practical, to maximise diversity. Provision of a fenced playground at all major sports venues. Links to toddler and children’s cycle circuits, e.g. Sydney Park. Provision of shaded seating within, or immediately adjoining, all children’s play spaces.
Provide a unique CBD play environment that caters for all abilities, and is a destination venue for both local children and visitors to the City.
Investigate siting options for a major CBD play space at Cook and Phillip Park.
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
Investigate opportunities to co-partner play facility development with nearby institutions, such as the Australian Museum, to provide unique play and learning
UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre, "Child Friendly Cities" 2004
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Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions environments.
Priority
Reference Documents
Inclusive Play 7.
Ensure that playgrounds are inclusive and meet the needs of all children.
Every playground development to offer a choice for users with a disability to find something that gives pleasure, success and allows interaction with others.
Develop an All Accessibility Playground at in the CBD and Sydney Park
Sydney Park Master Plan 2006 Appendix 3 Project Sheet 9 Appendix 6 Playground Facility Assessments and Directions
Playground Consolidation 8.
Reassess playgrounds which service the same catchment of users.
Target playgrounds located within 200m walking distance of each other, by either:
9.
Youth Facilities Provide a network of recreation facilities for young people including spaces to meet and socialise.
Removing one of the playgrounds. Reconfiguring one to offer users a different experience. Consolidate the playgrounds on one site to allow better efficiency of support facilities.
Ensure there is good provision throughout the City for young people to be active, or just “hang out”, in safe observable open spaces, e.g. multipurpose outdoor courts, indoor youth centres and skate parks. Where possible, colocate “youth-friendly” precincts with other areas or facilities being used by the broad community to facilitate integration.
Establish a cyclical replacement program that responds to equipment life cycle and changing local demographics.
Appendix 6 Playground Facility Assessments and Directions
Continue to maintain existing outdoor spaces accommodating youth recreation at the following sites:
Prince Alfred Park (includes proposed skate accessible plaza). Redfern Park. Nuffield Park. Alexandria Park. Waterloo Oval (skate park). Federal Park (skate facility). Woolloomoloo Park. Various full-size and half-size multipurpose courts.
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Provide a network of recreation facilities for young people including spaces to meet and socialise (cont.)
Directions Create designated youth activity nodes in the CBD to reduce conflict between workers, shoppers, tourists, etc, and young people seeking recreation / “hang-out” opportunities. Regularly consult with young people and youth service providers to ensure information about youth needs is ongoing and up-todate. Continue to maintain the existing youth facilities accommodating youth recreation at the following sites:
Millers Point Community Centre. Juanita Nielson Centre. Redfern Community Centre. Waterloo Oval (youth centre). Peter Forsyth Auditorium (indoor court).
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Investigate the feasibility of relocating the Erskineville Youth Program to the PACT Youth Theatre, and redevelop the Jo Sargent Centre as a multipurpose community centre.
Priority
Reference Documents
Redevelop the Maybanke Centre to increase the provision of flexible meeting / activity rooms. (Investigate the feasibility of building over the unused space behind the existing Centre to create a larger integrated community and youth facility). Redevelop the rear multipurpose court (basketball, netball and tennis) at the Maybanke Centre and assess the feasibility and practicality of having broader community access to this court outside of programmed use for youth activities. Retain the front court for youth-related programs Upgrade the Waterloo Oval Youth Facility to improve its capacity and capability to provide a range of youth activities and services. Upgrade the internal spaces at the Peter Forsyth Auditorium to better provide for player change and spectators, and assess opportunities to incorporate a separate program space.
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Provide a network of recreation facilities for young people including spaces to meet and socialise (cont.)
10.
Provide accessible and diverse skate amenities.
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Upgrade the outdoor spaces at the Peter Forsyth Auditorium to include multipurpose courts suitable for basketball and netball
Priority
Reference Documents
Investigate options to create a youth node in the Town Hall precinct. Provide range of skate facilities that include both street skate and bowl formats.
Identify linkages between youth facilities and key transport hubs that are skatable.
Assess the feasibility of establishing a new skate facility in Cook and Phillip Park which can be integrated with the leisure centre, and proposed new CBD Playground.
Youth Interagency Youth Strategy and Action Plan 2006 CoS Youth Facility & Skate Facility Needs Study 2006
Establish new skate parks at Prince Alfred Park (plaza -style design) and Sydney Park (learn-to-skate facility to be co-located with existing children's bicycle circuit). Integrate the development of a proposed new skate park and possible new youth centre for Green Square, with the proposed new Southern Area aquatic recreation facility. Investigate a suitable site for the provision of a BMX facility, such as Sydney Park.
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Organised Sports General Provision 11.
Create a network of diverse sporting facilities to meet the needs of all residents and visitors to the City.
Directions
Retain for sport, all existing open spaces and facilities currently designated for sporting use. Where space permits, plan for new sporting fields in broad-hectare urban renewal projects Continue to advocate for the relocation of the Wentworth Greyhound Racing Track away from the Park. Assess opportunities for proposed open space provision in commercial / employment zones at Green Square to provide informal sporting facilities to cater for the worker population, e.g. half court basketball spaces and flat grass areas for unstructured touch games. Ensure all current sporting areas are retained and not reused for other purposes, including the Wentworth Park Greyhound Track when relocated (liaise DoP).
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
Provide a new sports field(s) as part of the proposed new recreation activity node for Green Square neighbourhood (incorporating the proposed Southern Area aquatic recreation facility) to accommodate future demand from this area for rugby league, rugby union and/or soccer. Long-term, develop additional sports fields with any redevelopment of Wentworth Park (following the relocation of the greyhound track) to accommodate current and future demand for AFL, cricket, rugby league, rugby union and/or soccer. Progress the development of the level open space area in Sydney Park (Euston Road) as an active sports area. (The removal of the Euston Road Depot buildings could create an opportunity to further expand the provision for active sport at Sydney Park).
In conjunction with Alexandria Park Community School, investigate the joint development of the outdoor area at the junior campus as a new rectangular community sports field (soccer and rugby league).
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12.
Strategic Objectives Recognise the growing popularity of AFL in Sydney.
Directions Continue to allocate Alan Davidson Oval and Jubilee Oval as competition venues for AFL competition. Plan for additional ovals to accommodate growing numbers of AFL players. Continue to liaise with CP and Sydney University to ensure existing provisions for AFL ovals at Moore Park and the University are retained.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Build new change rooms at Jubilee Oval to better accommodate AFL use.
Priority
Reference Documents
Introduce AFL training in Federal Park to colocate with soccer training following the installation of flood lights. Investigate option of increasing the use of Erskineville Oval for AFL following the completion of the Redfern Park I redevelopment (by relocating some of the present use of Erskineville Oval by South Sydney RLFC) Investigate the longterm option of an oval being developed at Wentworth Park (on the site of the greyhound track) to accommodate future AFL and cricket needs
Basketball 13.
Basketball continues to remain one of the most popular activities for all ages and both genders, and its long-term facility needs should be addressed in the City.
Alexandria Basketball Stadium and the CoS Basketball Association (CSBA) to be confirmed as the major City facility and association for the delivery of basketball in the City. Continue to provide where appropriate community courts in parks. The planning for outdoor recreation facilities in commercial / employment areas should continue to include multipurpose hard court facilities for informal sports, such as basketball.
Assist the CSBA with their investigation into the feasibility of extending the Alexandria Basketball Stadium, by:
Identifying colocation options with other recreation facilities at Perry Park (e.g. netball court, hockey field). Determining that the proposed Southern Area aquatic recreation facility include associated flexible indoor multiuse space for broad community use, and not stadium-style sports courts for basketball.
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Basketball continues to remain one of the most popular activities for all ages and both genders, and its long-term facility needs should be addressed in the City (cont.)
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Upgrade the condition of the basketball court facilities at the following sites:
Priority
Reference Documents
Harry Noble Reserve. Maybanke Centre Upgrade the outdoor spaces at the Peter Forsyth Auditorium to include multipurpose courts suitable for basketball and netball Consider acquiring / renting a portion of the car park at the rear of the Pyrmont Community Centre for use as a multipurpose sports court (including basketball, tennis and netball).
Cricket 14.
Improve the provision for people to participate in cricket across the City.
Increase the availability of cricket facilities in the western districts of the City due to current poor provision. Contain the current provision of turf wickets to existing levels, however, when the opportunity arises, convert any existing turf wickets to synthetic wickets as a strategy to increase the provision of community recreation facilities available at no cost, and to also deliver savings in maintenance costs.
Investigate possible sites to install cricket practice nets within the western districts of the City, not only for use by organised groups (clubs), but as facilities for community recreation. Potential sites include:
Other future sites for cricket nets include:
Continue to liaise with CP and Sydney University to ensure existing provisions for cricket ovals at Moore Park and the University are retained.
Bicentennial / Federal Park precinct. Erskineville Oval / Harry Noble Reserve
The sports field precinct associated with the proposed Southern Area aquatic recreation facility in Green Square. East Darling Harbour development.
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Hockey 15.
Facilitate the introduction of a formal hockey facility into the City.
Directions
Assist the Glebe Hockey Club to identify a suitable location for the installation of a synthetic hockey field.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
In partnership with the Glebe Hockey Club, investigate the feasibility of developing a new community synthetic hockey field in the City (including financial analysis of the capital and operational costs). Potential sites include:
Reference Documents
Appendix 3 Project Sheet 30
Sydney University. Perry Park. Sydney Park (Euston Road).
Netball 16.
Improve the provision for local netball players to train at easily accessible venues within the City.
Increase the opportunities for netball clubs to conduct their training activities within the City through a combination of new courts and possible reuse of existing hard courts. Where possible, colocate any future netball courts with other community facilities to improve safety and management outcomes. Assess the feasibility of utilising existing Council tennis facilities at Turruwul Park, Beaconsfield Park and St James Park for regular casual netball use (for training). (An identified constraint with this option is the setup and dismantling between netball use and tennis use, and vice versa, however, if the courts were to be transferred to private management groups, this issue could potentially be resolved).
Investigate the practicality of developing new outdoor netball courts at the following sites:
Appendix 3 Project Sheet 30
Perry Park (which would integrated with the proposed redevelopment of the Alexandria Basketball Stadium) Sydney Park (Euston Road side). Alexandria Park Community School and/or Newtown Performing Arts School (as joint projects with Council). Peter Forsyth Auditorium (upgrade outdoor spaces to provide multipurpose courts suitable for netball and basketball)
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Rugby League 17.
Improve the provision for people to participate in rugby league across the City
Directions
Increase the provision of rectangular fields for joint-use between rugby league, rugby union and soccer. Improve the condition of facilities for rugby league. Refer Strategic Objective 11 which outlines possible future opportunities to increase the provision of fields for rugby league.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Establish Redfern Park as the primary focus area for rugby league in the City, by not only continuing to utilise the facility as the training venue for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, but by providing a facility for junior / district rugby league.
Reference Documents
Appendix 3 Project Sheet 2
Redfern Park to provide a home ground for locally based junior / district clubs, such as Redfern All Blacks.
Provide dual rugby league and soccer posts at two of the Wentworth Park fields to improve the training capacity of the fields for rugby league. Soccer 18.
Improve the provision for people to participate in soccer across the City.
Increase the provision of rectangular fields for joint-use between soccer, rugby league and rugby union. Improve the condition of facilities for soccer. Increase the availability of open space areas for 6-a-side soccer, especially informal games for casual groups (i.e. City workers). Ensure the proposed expansive open space areas at East Darling Harbour are designed and constructed to accommodate
Turruwul Park Plan of Management 2006 Appendix 3 – Project Sheet 6
Upgrade the playing field surface and changing amenities at Turruwul Park as part of the future implementation of the Turruwul Park Master Plan.
Appendix 3 – Project Sheet 39
Investigate the feasibility of installing a synthetic playing field(s) at Wentworth Park to increase the capacity of the venue to accommodate increased training activity thereby creating some relief to the current pressure on demand for use of the turf fields.
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Directions unstructured soccer activity, such as 6-aside soccer (particularly midweek, daytime use for City workers). Support the retention of the use of areas of The Domain for midweek 6-a-side soccer matches (liaise with BGT). Refer Strategic Objective 11 which outlines possible future opportunities to increase the provision of fields for soccer.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Liaise with CP and Sydney University to identify whether any opportunities exist to utilise soccer fields available at Moore Park and the Sydney University.
Priority
Reference Documents
Investigate the joint development of the outdoor area at Alexandria Park Community School (junior campus) as a new rectangular community sports field (e.g. soccer).
Tennis 19.
Improve the provision for people to participate in tennis across the City.
The key focus for tennis is to promote availability of courts and to improve access. Change the management system for those facilities for which Council is responsible for bookings. Continue to provide rebound walls in selected parks to ensure affordable community tennis access.
Redevelop the multipurpose court (including tennis) at the rear of Maybanke Centre and assess the practicality of facilitating increased community use of the court outside of programmed use for youth activities. Redevelop and upgrade courts at Rushcutters Bay Park and Prince Alfred Park.
Appendix 3 – Project Sheets 4 & 7
Promote the availability of the tennis courts at the Sydney University for community hire.
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives Improve the provision for people to participate in tennis across the City (cont.)
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
Consider the “classic clay” artificial surface for the courts as an alternative to the hard courts. This will provide some diversity of surface in relation to the existing courts within the City which are either hard court or sand-filled grass. (Qualities include greater “give” in the court surface, are durable and require little water for maintenance) Refer Strategic Objective No. 88 which outlines proposed changes in management directions for tennis facilities.
Social Plan Community Target Groups Children (0-11 years) 20.
21.
Improve the status of the City of Sydney as a “Child Friendly City”.
Provide spaces where children can be seen and heard.
Refer to Strategic Objectives 4,5,6,7 & 8
UNICEF “Child Friendly Cities”
Refer Strategic Objective 9.
Youth Interagency Youth Strategy and Action Plan 2006
Ensure there is a network of accessible neighbourhood spaces and playgrounds appropriate for children and carers.
Young People (12-17 years) Provide new and Continue to improved facilities and improve the spaces for young to range, hang-out and engage distribution and in recreation. diversity of recreation facilities and spaces for young people.
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CoS Draft Pedestrian Plan 2006 Aquatic Strategy 2005.
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Directions Objectives Older Persons (55+ years) 22.
Ensure there is a range of indoor and outdoor facilities and spaces suitable for older persons and which can be easily accessed.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Provide more circuitstyle walking paths within parks.
Refer Strategic Objective 34 (public toilets).
Provide seats, as well as places to gather, picnic and socialise in shade in summer and in sun in winter.
Provide of a hydrotherapy pool / program pool in the aquatic recreation facility proposed for the southern area of the City (Green Square). Continue to support the community garden network across the City with other partner providers, and identify opportunities to provide additional community gardens, where appropriate with park upgrades. Ensure new/upgraded community facilities consider the needs of older people, and the needs of providers of services for older people Refer Strategic Objective 36 (access and safety).
Ensure there is a network of accessible toilet facilities across the City. Provide hydrotherapy / program pool facilities across the City. In areas of the City where there is high density living (Waterloo) and a higher proportion of older people continue to support access to community gardens. Ensure there is good provision of accessible neighbourhood spaces
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Reference Documents
© Stratcorp Consulting 2006
Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives
Directions across the City. Ensure parks and open space are safe places to visit. Ensure there is good provision across the City of accessible indoor multipurpose facilities suitable for social and health & well being programs. Ensure new/upgraded community facilities consider the needs of older people, and the needs of providers of services for older people.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Possible future projects to increase the range and availability of useable space for activities for older people include:
Upgrade / extend Maybanke Centre.
Re-assessment of the future use of the Joseph Sargent Centre (as part of the possible relocation of the Youth Service to the PACT Theatre).
Development of new community spaces as part of the proposed Southern Area aquatic recreation facility.
Priority
Reference Documents
Women 23.
Increase the provision of recreation facilities and open space areas which cater for the recreational needs of women
Refer Strategic Objectives 13 (basketball), 15 (hockey), 16 (netball) and 18 (soccer) for new/improved facilities for women. Identify opportunities to increase the number of facilities in Sydney City that can accommodate women’s sport and recreation.
Increase cycle and walking infrastructure (refer Strategic Objectives 29, 39 & 40)
NSW Sport & Recreation “Women in Sport Participation” 2001
Increase the range and diversity of accessible playgrounds (Strategic Objectives 4, 5 & 6) Refer Strategic Objective 36 (access and safety).
Ensure parks and open space areas adequately provide for the social and recreational needs of women and children. Continue to facilitate the provision of health & fitness facilities throughout Sydney City by private enterprise (both private and public). Aboriginal People No. 03A City of Sydney Open Space Strategy - Volume 1 - The Strategy(161006).doc Page 33
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives 24.
Continue to provide and facilitate the development of recreational facilities and spaces suitable for Aboriginal people.
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Develop local facilities to accommodate the sporting needs of Aboriginal people.
Develop a home ground venue for Redfern All Blacks teams at Redfern Park as part of its future redevelopment.
Ensure good provision of indoor and outdoor spaces to support the educational, social, cultural and recreational needs of Aboriginal people.
Develop new netball courts to facilitate the local training requirements for the Redfern Netball Club (refer Strategic Objective 16).
Reference Documents
Completion of the Eveleigh Street Parks Project. Completion of the Hugo Street Park court upgrade. Continue to provide and facilitate the development of recreational facilities and spaces suitable for Aboriginal people (cont.)
Investigate modifications to the recreational rooms at the Redfern Community Centre to maximise their use for concurrent programming and joint activities. Support the future development of the former Redfern Public School site as a new integrated and multipurpose educational, social, cultural and recreational precinct (liaise with Redfern Waterloo Authority). Provide ongoing advice and advocacy support for the provision of recreational facilities and spaces on Public Housing land to maximise integration with the City’s broad open space network (liaise with Department of Housing).
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25.
Strategic Objectives Ensure people from diverse cultures have access and opportunity to utilise recreation facilities and open space areas.
Directions Provide places for social and cultural gatherings (indoors and outdoors). Provide information to CALD communities in relevant languages and formats. Ensure local community meeting places are available in those areas where there is a higher density of CALD communities, to facilitate access to local venues for social recreation and community gatherings (e.g. Redfern Town Hall and Ultimo Community Centre). Refer Strategic Objectives 7, 36 & 3
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Consider broadening the focus of Activity Centres from older adults to incorporate programs and services for CALD communities
Priority
Reference Documents NSW Sport & Recreation “Disability Awareness Resource” 2001
Identify appropriate locations for the development of bocce courts within the City’s open space network. Sites could include:
Belmore Park. Harry Noble Reserve. Wentworth Park. East Darling Harbour precinct. Turruwul Park or Crete Reserve.
Refer Strategic Objectives 60 (use of parks for community events).
People with a Disability 26.
Continue to improve the accessibility of the City’s open space network and recreation facilities.
Aim to ensure all parks and open space areas adequately cater for people with special needs. Continue to upgrade Council buildings, including recreation facilities, to ensure that they comply with legislative requirements for people with a disability.
Consider the directions and recommendations relating to the accessibility of recreation places and spaces for people with a disability, as outlined in the CoS Access and Equity Needs Assessment Study 2006. Refer Strategic Objectives 7,36 & 37
Gay, lesbian and transgender people 27.
Places and spaces across the City will support and cater for the recreational needs of gay, lesbian and transgender people.
Ensure open space areas and recreation facilities provide safe and welcoming environments for all people and are equitably distributed throughout the City.
Refer Strategic Objectives 1, 32, 39 & 60.
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Directions Objectives Informal Recreation Activities Companion Animal Exercise 28.
Residents with companion animals will have a range of options and destinations for exercising and socialising.
Include reasonable access to, and designation of dog off leash areas for all residents.
Undertake assessments of regional, district and local parks to identify opportunities for dog off leash sites, by considering:
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Establish conditions for use of parks for personal training and Boot Camp activities that balances encouragement of activity with local amenity and competition for park use.
Develop policy and permit system to manage the expansion of the activity in the City, and to regulate the use of public spaces for the activity.
Ensure personal training activities do not encroach on other people’s activities and enjoyment of the outdoor spaces.
Develop policy and permit system for personal training and boot camp activities to manage the expansion of the activity in the City, and to regulate the use of public spaces for the activity. Aim of the Policy should be to achieve a balance for encouragement of these activities with local amenity and competition for park use.
CoS Companion Animal Policy 2006
Monitor and record the use parks and open space areas for personal training.
Adequacy of space. Equitable distribution across the City. Compatibility with other park uses.
Reference Documents
Personal Training 29.
Support the continual expansion of the use of outdoor areas for personal training.
Prevent the overuse of specific parks and sports fields for personal training activities, where such use degrades the quality of the surfaces. Informal Sporting and Recreation Activities 30.
Ensure there is a diverse range of equitably distributed open space areas and recreation facilities that can be used for informal, unstructured activity.
Continue to maintain and develop community recreation facilities.
Upgrade existing community recreation facilities at the following sites:
Increase the provision of open space areas which can accommodate informal sporting activity.
Maybanke Centre (rear multipurpose court).
Increase the provision of facilities which can
Prince Alfred Park (basketball courts have non-conforming runoffs).
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Directions accommodate informal sporting activity. Consider the following new installations in larger parks to improve provision to free recreation facilities:
Tennis rebound walls. Bocce courts. Golf practice cages. Fitness circuit / equipment. Park tables with chess board tops.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Alexandria Park (basketball courts have non-conforming runoffs).
Priority
Reference Documents
Harry Noble Reserve (half-court basketball court). Turruwul Park (rebound wall). Peter Forsyth Auditorium outdoor area (multipurpose courts).
Include provision for informal active recreation activities (such as frisbee, kite flying, 6-a-side soccer, touch, etc) in proposed new open space areas in Sydney City, including:
New recreation precinct at Green Square. East Darling Harbour.
Refer Strategic Objectives 1 & 2. Passive-Use Boating 31.
Facilitate opportunities for passive–use boating.
Where opportunities allow, encourage the provision and use of public boating facilities within foreshore paths for passive-use water craft only.
Support NSW Maritime directions for developing public boating facilities at Bank Street, Pyrmont to accommodate passive-use boating activities.
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Bank Street Master Plan 2006 (SHFA)
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Where appropriate, provide landing sites for passive craft, such as ramps, pontoons, and seawall steps. One possible location to be considered is Glebe Foreshore Parklands.
Priority
Reference Documents Appendix 3 Project Sheet 3
Community Gathering Spaces 32.
33.
All residents should have reasonable access to a park or other open space area capable of accommodating community gatherings.
A CBD Civic Square
Develop park and recreation facilities that promote “Community in the City” by providing spaces to socialise and conduct community gatherings and events.
Develop a park in each planning district suitable for social recreation and community gatherings. Key criteria should include:
Local / Neighbourhood parks within a planning district will aim to be developed with a point of difference from each other to create diversity and changing themes with a recreation focus. Provide a CBD Civic Square. Primary function will be for daytime and evening relaxation and informal leisure and play. The space should be sufficiently open to accommodate special civic and community event uses throughout the year.
Appendix 3 Project Sheet 24
Location to public transport. Size of park. Distance to shops or other community facilities. Other uses of the park.
Continue ongoing acquisition to develop a new future Sydney Square.
Appendix 3 Project Sheet 24
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1. Improve the Diversity of Recreation Experiences which are Available Strategic Objectives General 34.
Encourage use and activation of the open space network through provision of support facilities, such as seats, tables, BBQs, etc.
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
The design and facility guidelines for open space classification types should provide a range of facilities and amenities to create comfortable and welcoming places.
Assess the existing provision of support facilities in parks against the open space classification hierarchy and guidelines for facility provision. (Refer Section 15 Volume 2 - Research & Analysis)
Appendix 3 Project Sheet 34
Toilet provision and design to consider access, visibility, optimum natural light, safety, functionality, discouragement of anti-social uses and suitability for cleaning.
Provide new/upgraded toilet facilities at the following locations:
Appendix 3 Project Sheets 1-3, 6, 7, 9, 15, 25, 27, 29, 30
Toilets 35.
Provide safe and well maintained toilet facilities to encourage longer periods of usage of open space and recreation facilities.
All new stand-alone toilets should generally be located at park perimeters facing the street.
Turruwul Park. Redfern Park. Erskineville Oval / Harry Noble Reserve. Perry Park. Sydney Park. Rushcutters Bay Park. Fitzroy Gardens. Glebe Foreshore Parklands. Hyde Park. Alexandria Park. Wentworth Park. Beare Park. Beaconsfield Park.
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2. Access to Recreation in the City Will Be For All Provide opportunities for all of the community to use and enjoy our parks and recreation facilities
Accessibility will be a priority. Parks and recreation facilities are for all people. Facilities and open space will be designed and managed to be accessible and inclusive of all people, regardless of age, income, ability or background.
2. Access to Recreation in the City Will Be For All
36.
Strategic Objectives Provide accessible open space within safe walking distance of all residents.
Directions Provide Local Level open space within minimum 400m of each resident, based on an actual walkable distance to the park. Confirm findings of park access gap analysis plan and determine optimum approach for all areas not within 400m walking distance of a park.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Carry out a park access street audit on all areas with poor park access and implement access improvement works as a first priority with review of need or otherwise for acquisition in longer term.
Priority
Reference Documents Appendix 2 Open Space Catchment Areas
Access for All Principles 37.
Create an open space network that is accessible and which provides recreation services that are available to all, regardless of physical and intellectual ability, cultural background or financial constraints.
All sectors within the community will be able to access and enjoy open space areas and associated services, regardless of the personal characteristics of a person, or the person’s social situation. There will be a combination of new open space / facility development and upgrade of existing to ensure specific sectors of the community can be accommodated.
Develop an all abilities playground in Sydney Park and at a site within the CBD.
Apply Access for All Principles in the planning and management of open space, recreation facilities and programs, including the provision of age-specific and culturally relevant opportunities for target group’s identified in the CoS Social Plan.
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Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and NSW Anti Discrimination Act 1994 CoS Social Plan 2006 Draft Inclusion, Access and Equity Study 2006
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2. Access to Recreation in the City Will Be For All Strategic Directions Objectives People with a Disability 38.
Ensure equitable access to the City’s open space and recreation facility network.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Ensure that all new public spaces are appropriately designed and located and have equitable, continuous and accessible paths of travel.
Undertake a comprehensive disability access audit of open space and recreation facilities to ensure all parks have the following as a minimum:
Ensure recreation and sporting activities are accessible to people with a disability.
Improve accessibility of signage throughout the open space network.
Pram crossings on road kerbs at all entries to parks. Fully compacted gravel, sealed paths or standards compliant access ramps into parks to allow all ability access. Handrails to all steps into and within parks. Pathway edges to allow wheelchair access to grass areas / facilities not connected by paths. Adequate provision of paths to meet anticipated uses. Regular maintenance of paths to maintain even surfaces and avoid trip hazards. Clear lines of sight into reserves to allow safe access. Grades for at least one entry point that meets current standard for disability access. Sight-impaired directions (Braille signage and tactile paving). Adequate seating. Shade / shelter provision.
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Reference Documents
Australian Standard 1428 (1, 2, 3 & 4). Australian Standard 1700 series or current standard for access & mobility. Disability Discrimination Act 1992
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2. Access to Recreation in the City Will Be For All Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Provide park information / interpretation in multiple formats including large print and audio format to ensure it is accessible to everyone.
Priority
Reference Documents
Ensure directions to assist people with sight impairment through use of Braille and tactile paving. 39.
Continue to improve the availability of information about parks and recreation facilities to enable people to make informed choices.
Provide clear information on the range of leisure opportunities available.
Prepare a Communications Strategy to provide residents information about open space and recreation facilities available within the City. Options include:
Council website. Signage. Brochures.
Where practical and where high demand for information is likely (i.e. availability of playgrounds), provide printed material in dominant non-English languages (such as Chinese and Greek), large print formats, audio formats, and use of equitable colour selection for publications. Safety 40.
Ensure public spaces are designed and maintained with respect to principles of community safety and environmental design.
Key strategies to promote safety include:
Improving security lighting in activity areas and along major pedestrian pathways. Maximising natural surveillance. Creating a strong sense of identity and community ownership
Define design and management strategies for park safety that include parameters for provision of:
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (NSW Police)
CoS City Safe Strategies
Access path lighting. General amenity lighting. Optimum lines of sight. Enhanced casual surveillance by park
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CoS Lighting Strategy 2006 Redfern Waterloo Community Safety Plan
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2. Access to Recreation in the City Will Be For All Strategic Objectives
Directions
41.
Encourage pedestrian and cycle access to and between the open space network.
Providing clear, unconfused pathways to and within each park. Ranger presence
Establish cycle and pedestrian links between major parks and linking to other community facilities. Integrate park access with the CoS Cycle Strategy. Establish perimeter circuits around larger parks for walking and jogging, and where applicable, recreation cycling (especially for small children).
Projects Initiatives/ Actions users and adjoining land uses.
Identify parks suitable for strategic cycle linkages, such as Prince Alfred Park, Sydney Park and Centennial Park and identify appropriate roads and corridors to link such parks. Continue implementation of the CoS Cycle Strategy 2006.
Priority
Reference Documents
CoS Cycle Strategy 2006 Draft CoS Pedestrian Plan 2006 Alexandra Canal Master Plan 2001
Appendix 3 – Project Sheets 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 25 & 29
Install bicycle parking facilities at key open space areas and recreational facilities. Provide or enhance pathway circuits and boundary paths at all major parks, including:
Physical 42. Minimise barriers to access parks and recreation facilities.
Improve access to district level parks that have poor access due to busy roads, railway corridors or topographic barriers.
Hyde Park. Sydney Park. Redfern Park. Turruwul Park. Rushcutters Bay Park. Erskineville Oval / Harry Noble Reserve. Wentworth Park. Prince Alfred Park.
Key parks to improve access to include:
Appendix 3 – Project Sheets 4, 8, 9, 21 & 25
Victoria Park. Prince Alfred Park. Sydney Park. Observatory Hill Park. Wentworth Park.
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2. Access to Recreation in the City Will Be For All Projects Initiatives/ Strategic Directions Actions Objectives Social Affordable / Equitable Access to Recreation Facilities 43.
User fees and charges to use recreation facilities will be affordable.
Ensure user fees and charges consider equity issues to minimise participation barriers to those with the least ability to pay.
Priority
Maintain a consistent and equitable fees and charges policy for use of Council’s recreation facilities.
Reference Documents
CoS Fees and Charges Policy Social Plan 2006
Ensure there is a range of well-distributed community recreation facilities (free access) across the City, such as basketball / multipurpose courts, cricket nets, rebound walls, and netball courts.
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3. A Park Close to Home and Work Improving the provision of open space and recreation facilities
The City will aim to provide for adequate and equitable distribution of, and access to, park and recreational facilities. The assessment of the quantity and distribution of current open space provision shows that some areas of City are deficient in local open space as described in Section 14.1 of Volume 2 – Research & Analysis. Increase in provision can be achieved by either direct acquisition, transfer of land by State Government agencies for care control and management as open space, or land dedications arising out of the development approval process. It is recognised that there is minimal opportunity to dramatically increase the quantity of available open space to keep pace with anticipated population growth. As well as providing additional open space where required, the City’s direction will be to increase the quality, diversity and accessibility of existing open space. From time to time opportunities may arise to acquire sites for open space. Performance criteria will be used to assess the merit of these opportunities to ensure provision of quality usable open space.
3. A Park Close to Home and Work
44.
Strategic Objectives Develop and extend the open space network.
Directions Identify and pursue opportunities to increase open space provision in areas of high priority need (refer Appendix 1 & 2). Explore opportunities to acquire land adjacent to existing parks in order to increase provision and to improve value and amenity of existing parks. Consider areas of highest need, that is, areas with existing and/or projected high population with low open space provision. Priority districts include: City East opportunities include: RTA sites at 231
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Complete Harmony Park, Surry Hills to provide additional 8,000m2 open space
Priority
Reference Documents
Complete design development and construction of Water Police Site Park as a public park
Appendix 3 – Project Sheet 11
East Darling Harbour – continue to advocate for open space provision for both passive and active recreation activities (liaise with SHFA). Barcom Avenue Park – completion of West Street extension works.
Appendix 3 – Project Sheet 39
Finalise negotiations for acquisition of Wood Street and Creek Street to allow Orphan School Creek Corridor connection to Glebe Foreshore Parklands.
Appendix 3 – Project Sheet 12
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Appendix 3 – Project Sheet 13
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3. A Park Close to Home and Work Strategic Objectives
Directions
& 237-241 Bourke Street, Darlinghurst. Service Station at 118A Victoria Street, Darlinghurst (adjacent to St Johns Church) for local park.
Inner South opportunities include Redfern Waterloo Authority development sites. South East opportunities include open space associated with Green Square development.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Sydney Square – acquisition of properties to provide key CBD civic space.
Priority
Reference Documents
Bank Street – lobby State Government to acquire 1 Bank Street, as per the Bank Street Master Plan. Finalise negotiations to acquire The Crescent Street properties to extend the Glebe Foreshore Parklands. Sydney Park – investigate feasibility acquiring cement works site and removing Euston Road Depot buildings to expand active sport precinct of the Park. Franklin Street Playground – acquisition of adjoining land to extend parkland. Explore opportunities to extend size of Beaconsfield Park through development approvals process of adjacent properties. Investigate feasibility of extending the area of Alexandria Park through redesign of Park Street. (This would provide improved connection to Alexandria Park Community School, if access becomes available).
45.
Ensure appropriate provision of quality open space from the development approval process.
Ensure that land acquired or dedicated as part of the development process, or through City acquisitions, will enhance the overall level of provision and quality of the open space network.
Assess open space acquisition / dedication opportunities based on recommended guidelines (refer Appendix 4).
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Appendix 4 Open Space Acquisition Criteria Appendix 2 – Open Space Catchment Areas
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3. A Park Close to Home and Work Strategic Objectives
Directions Ensure development master plans provide quality open space provision for future population growth.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Assessment of areas currently subject to planning include:
46.
Improve the useability and access to existing open space.
Promote the principle of multi-use for all existing and new facilities.
Priority
Reference Documents Appendix 3 Project Sheets 35, 37-39
CUB Site. Ashmore Estate. Green Square Town Centre. Green Square. East Darling Harbour Redevelopment. Fish Markets. Bank Street Foreshore. Jackson Landing. Alexandra Canal.
Redfern Park redevelopment of oval to allow increased community access and use. Walter Read Reserve reconstruction of reservoir roof to return Reserve to public use. Wentworth Park relocation of greyhound racing track to create a larger city park. Improve access to Park from central Pyrmont. Erskineville Oval improve public access and link with Harry Noble Reserve, and possibly increase provision of ‘usable’ open space through reduction of the eastern spectator mounds. Fitzroy Gardens and Lawrence Hargrave Park – improve the accessibility and use of Lawrence Hargrave Park.
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3. A Park Close to Home and Work Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Prince Alfred Park multi use of ball courts, skate plaza and informal field sports.
Priority
Reference Documents
Cook and Phillip Park Plaza – increase use and activation of this space. Town Hall Square (existing) – upgrade to increase use and activation of this space. ( liaise with St Andrews Cathedral) Domain Carpark investigate feasibility of providing outdoor recreation / court facilities along Sir John Young Street frontage of the car park (liaise with RGT). 3-5 Amy St / Flora & Knight Reserves, Erskineville – improve link and upgrade reserves to provide local park for short stay recreation. Albert Sloss Reserve, Darlinghurst – improve connection and use of to adjacent Heffron Hall building. 47.
Increase open space and recreation facility provision through partnerships with other land owners.
Investigate broad community access to open space / recreation facilities not under the City’s control or management.
Investigate the feasibility of joint-use of open space and facilities at:
Investigate feasibility of the CoS becoming a co-partner with any expansion and redevelopment of the Alexandria Basketball Stadium at Perry Park to provide additional indoor court spaces and recreational facilities.
Alexandria Park Community School. Newtown Performing Arts School. Sydney University (possible hockey field). St Canices Church, Darlinghurst.
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3. A Park Close to Home and Work Strategic Objectives Buildings in Parks 48.
Remove unsuitable / underutilised buildings and facilities from open space areas in order to increase provision of usable open space.
Directions
All existing non open space dependant buildings and facilities located in open space need to be assessed for adaptability to open space related use, or should be removed to improve outdoor use of open space.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Secure care and control of open space owned by other State Government Authorities.
Seek to gain transfer of land currently in the control of State Government for nominal consideration as a strategy to increase and protect the overall open space provision within the City.
Reference Documents
Existing buildings assessed as non-open space dependent should be considered for removal, subject to an alternate location being identified to accommodate existing user(s) / uses. Buildings to be considered include:
49.
Priority
Redfern Park Child Health Centre. Prince Alfred Park Depot. Turruwul Park Depot. Rushcutters Bay Park Depot. Euston Road Depot (Sydney Park). Oatley Road Depot, Paddington.
Sites for consideration include:
231 & 237-241 Bourke Street (O’Briens Lane), Darlinghurst (RTA). Daniel Dawson Reserve, Alexandria (STA). Marion Street Park, Redfern (Redfern Waterloo Authority). 9 Alfred Street, Forest Lodge (Crown Land). Crown Street Reservoir Site, Surry Hills (Sydney Water).
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4. Linking the Network Achieving a cohesive and linked open space and recreation facility network.
A well connected open space and recreation facility network provides greater opportunity to access a diverse range of recreation opportunities, improve visual amenity and promote the creation of wildlife corridors. Collaboration between the State Government Agencies and neighbouring councils is imperative to achieve a regional network that maximises use, enhance opportunities and choice to participate in recreation, and encourages integration between neighbourhoods.
4. Linking the Network
50.
Strategic Objectives Develop open space networks.
Directions Form open space links between areas of significant parkland.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Key strategic open space links being planned and developed include:
Fill the gaps in the existing network to provide a continuous open space link. Provide improved connections between open space and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Harbour Foreshore Walk. Alexandria Canal Corridor. Royal Botanic Gardens to Sydney Park. Orphan Street Creek Corridor to Glebe Foreshore Parklands. East Darling Harbour to Domain.
Reference Documents CoS Strategic Plan 2006/09 Accessing Sydney Harbour Program (2003-2008) Sydney Metropolitan Regional Recreation Trails Framework (DIPNR 2005) SHFAForeshore Promenade Strategy Appendix 3 Project Sheets 31 & 32 Appendix 3 Project Sheets 11, 31, 32 & 39
Key links being developed include:
Priority
Water Police Site. Bank Street Master Plan. East Darling Harbour. Sydney Park to Alexandria Canal.
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4. Linking the Network Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Key connections for feasibility assessment include:
Priority
Reference Documents Pyrmont Infrastructure Review 2005
Link between Southern Cross Drive Reserve and Bannerman Crescent Reserve. Prince Alfred Park to Chippendale. Victoria Park to Chippendale. Bartley Street to Jones Street to parks located in Pyrmont. Sydney Park to Alexandria and Green Square. Wentworth Park to Central Pyrmont / Ultimo. Saunders Street Reserve to Distillery Hill Park, Pyrmont. Kent Street Underpass to link East Darling Harbour to Observatory Hill Park. Moore Park to Sydney Football Stadium & Cricket Ground (liaise with Centennial Parklands and Moore Park Trust).
Appendix 1 Key Strategic Directions and Projects Appendix 3 Project Sheets 21, 22, 25 & 31
Green Streets 51.
Create green links between major open space areas using footpaths, setbacks and easements for pedestrian and cycle use.
When planning for improvements, consider the following:
Signage installations. Condition of footpaths. Pram crossings at intersections. Improvements for crossing busy roads. Higher priority street trees.
Improve streetscapes which provide direct pedestrian links to strategic open space and recreation facility destinations.
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Appendix 1 Key Strategic Directions and Projects CoS Street Tree Master Plan 2005 Draft CoS Pedestrian Plan 2006 Public Domain Plans
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4. Linking the Network Strategic Directions Objectives Cross Boundary Partnerships 52.
Cross-boundary open space beyond the City of Sydney boundaries to ensure coordination of open space connections.
Ensure regular discussions with key stakeholder Agencies to inform and plan
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
gular liaison with other open space management Agencies, including:
SHFA. DIPNR. Centennial Park & Moore Park Trust. Botanic Gardens Trust. Department of Defence. Sydney University. Adjoining Councils.
Reference Documents
Sydney Metropolitan Regional Recreation Trails Framework DIPNR 2005
Biodiversity Corridors 53.
Establish improved wildlife corridor connections.
Liaise with all infrastructure providers to establish opportunities for enhanced corridor connections.
Opportunities to explore in linking parks with enhanced tree canopy connections include:
Railcorp. RTA. Sydney Water (stormwater channel easements). SHFA. Adjoining Councils. Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust.
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5. Better Parks and Facilities Improving the quality of open space and recreation facilities.
Quality refers to overall network provision and accessibility as well as the design, appearance, safety, maintenance and layout of individual sites. The City is committed to providing high quality open spaces and recreation facilities that encourages community use and enjoyment. An extensive capital works program has been initiated resulting in substantial improvements invested in City parks and facilities over the last 5 years with many more projects planned for the next three years.
5. Better Parks and Facilities Strategic Objectives Capital Works Program 54. Ongoing commitment to an open space and recreation facilities Capital Works Program.
Directions Continue capital works allocations and funding upgrades to the open space network and recreation facilities.
On completion of current major park and recreation facility upgrades, next phases to consider:
Local park upgrades based on more strategic approach to types of facilities related to park size and distribution. Improved off-road and on-road connections.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Key current major park and recreation facility projects include: Open Space Hyde Park. Prince Alfred Park. Redfern Park. Rushcutters Bay Park. Turruwul Park. Sydney Park. Surry Hills Park. Glebe Foreshore Parklands. Victoria Park. Erskineville Oval. Walter Read Reserve. Recreation Facilities Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre. Waterloo Youth Facility. Maybanke Youth Centre.
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Priority
Reference Documents Appendix 3 Project Sheets 1 - 4, 6 - 10, 17 & 29 Volume 2 – Appendices 9 & 10
CoS Youth Facility and Skate Facility Needs Study 2006 Appendix 3 Project Sheets 17 & 18
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5. Better Parks and Facilities
55.
Strategic Objectives Future open space and recreation facility improvements to be included in the Capital Works Program.
Directions Enhance CBD civic spaces to promote outdoor activity and street life.
Upgrade and improve existing parks and recreation facilities to better meet community recreation needs.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Specific CBD Civic improvement and upgrade projects to include:
Strengthen local Civic spaces as village meeting places.
Increase the range of provision of free recreation facilities in parks. Consider the following new installations in larger parks to improve provision to free recreation facilities:
Tennis rebound walls. Bocce courts. Golf practice cages. Fitness circuit / equipment. Park tables with chess board tops
Priority
Reference Documents Appendix 3 Project Sheet 24
Sydney Square. Town Hall Square (to realise a major meeting / civic space in the central CBD area). Richard Johnson Square. Sesquicentenary Square. Regimental Square. Queen Square. Kent Street Underpass.
Appendix 3 Project Sheets 21, 23, 25 & 26
Major open space sites and facilities to be assessed for future upgrade include:
Belmore Park. Observatory Hill Park. Wentworth Park. Provision of a CBD playground.
Upgrade existing community recreation facilities at the following sites:
Maybanke Centre (rear multipurpose court). Prince Alfred Park (basketball courts non-conforming runoffs). Alexandria Park (basketball courts non-conforming runoffs). Harry Noble Reserve (half-court basketball court). Turruwul Park (rebound wall). Peter Forsyth Auditorium outdoor area (multipurpose courts).
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5. Better Parks and Facilities Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Key local spaces for improvement as Civic places include:
56.
Upgrade and improvement of Local and Neighbourhood parks to better meet resident needs.
Focus on creating a variety of settings based on park size and capacity so that a range of recreation demands can be met over time, including:
Social spaces for quiet reflection. Playground spaces (0-7 years). Playground spaces (7-12 years). Playground spaces (0-12 years). Active social spaces, i.e. kickabout spaces. Community gardening. Biodiversity appreciation.
Priority
Reference Documents
Fitzroy Gardens, Elizabeth Bay. Edward Square, Pyrmont. Redfern Station Square (liaise with Redfern Waterloo Authority). Paddington Street Closures: Oxford, Newcombe, Elizabeth and Ulster Streets.
Local parks and open spaces that require priority upgrades include:
Appendix 6 Playground Facility Assessment and Directions
Appendix 3 Project Sheet 20
Foley Park, Glebe. Fitzroy Gardens and Lawrence Hargrave Park, Elizabeth Bay. Beale Park, Elizabeth Bay. Charles Kiernan Reserve, Darlington. Ward Park, Surry Hills. Oatley Reserve, Paddington. Jack Floyd Reserve, Redfern. Edmund Resch Reserve, East Redfern. Marion Street Park, Redfern (liaise with Redfern Waterloo Authority). Flora & Knight Streets Reserves / 3-5 Amy Street Reserve, Erskineville. Bannerman Crescent Reserve, Rosebery. Forbes Street Closure, Woolloomooloo Woolloomooloo Viaduct Parks.
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Redfern Waterloo Authority Built Environment Plan 2006
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5. Better Parks and Facilities Strategic Objectives Park Clutter 57.
58.
Improve the legibility of the parks open space network through better signage and reduction of clutter.
Planning and design of open space provided by developers.
Directions
Remove extraneous items not central to park use and enjoyment. Remove all obsolete and unnecessary or duplicating signs. Lobby energy authorities to discourage the location of kiosks in parks and streetscapes Achieve better planning and quality outcomes with open space provided by developers
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
Review and update City’s signage strategy for parks and recreation facilities to ensure consistency of quality design and legibility and placement throughout the open space network.
Prepare design guidelines to ensure high quality open space outcomes are achieved in new public parks established as part of private development.
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Appendix 4 Open Space Acquisition Criteria
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6. Involving the Community Encouraging participation in open space and recreation facility development and use.
The open space and recreation facilities network belongs to the community. If public open space is to satisfy community needs then it makes sense to actively involve the potential users in its design, to make the community aware of the recreation opportunities available, and to generally encourage the use of our open space network. Full involvement of the community in the planning for and design of open space and recreation facilities in their neighbourhoods will ensure that it better reflects various needs and differences. Physical inactivity is identified as a major cause of disease in Australia. State and Federal Governments have responded with campaigns for Australians to become more active and healthy in order to reduce the incidence of obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Parks and recreation facilities contribute significantly in addressing this issue by providing venues for people to participate in physical recreation and sport. The City has an important role to play in delivering this “get active” message by encouraging community recreation and sport through the provision of quality open space, facilities, services and programs.
6. Involving the Community
59.
Strategic Objectives Effective public consultation on the development and use of open space and recreation facilities.
Directions Promote and allow opportunity for input into to the planning, development and use of Council’s park and streetscape network. Ensure that Council’s consultation processes are planned and coordinated effectively. Ensure that Council’s consultation processes are inclusive of all community members, including Social Plan target groups. Ensure that consultation materials are provided in community languages and multiple formats.
Projects Initiatives / Actions Develop and document consultation processes for open space and recreation facility projects.
Priority
Reference Documents City of Sydney Strategic Plan 2006/09 Social Plan 2006
Utilise Council’s publications and Neighbourhood Service Centres to reach members of the community who do not have access to internet or local media. Consider implementing a web based community rating of local parks (similar to the successful Greenstat UK ‘Million Voices’ parks survey).
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6. Involving the Community Strategic Objectives Recreation Programs 60. Contribute to a reduction in obesity levels by encouraging a greater range and proportion of the community to participate in recreation and leisure activities.
Directions Develop and facilitate recreation and leisure programs to promote physical health and well-being. Provide better urban environments which favour pedestrians and cyclists.
Projects Initiatives / Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
Promote the health and environmental benefits of cycling and walking to all residents.
Healthy Parks, Healthy People (Parks Victoria)
Continue implementation of the CoS Cycle Strategy 2006.
CoS Cycle Strategy 2006 Draft CoS Pedestrian Plan 2006
Organise and promote “Active Australia” projects and events to increase participation across key demographic and social groups. Assist recreation / sport organisations in the promotion of activities such as “try or learn” programs.
Children
Young People
Promote good nutrition practices and active lifestyles for families and children.
Continue Playgroups in the Park programs.
Promote healthy and active lifestyles for young people.
Continue to provide and support targeted night and weekend activities, such as:
Develop affordable and accessible sport competitions and recreation activities.
Refer Strategic Objectives 6 - 8, 20
NSW Sport & Recreation “Active Kids” 2002
Night Basketball. Glebe After Dark.
Consider introducing a “free throw” session immediately after school on selected days to enable young people to access the indoor courts at Alexandra Basketball Stadium, King George V RC, Cook and Phillip Park AC, Peter Forsyth Auditorium and Ultimo CC.
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6. Involving the Community Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives / Actions Develop an annual program of events, competitions and demonstrations at the Waterloo skate park, which is extended to other skate facilities as they are developed.
Priority
Reference Documents
Assist the three CoS based PCYC’s with occasional promotion and awareness initiatives of their locations and services available. Refer Strategic Objectives 9, 21 Older People
Promote and facilitate healthy and active lifestyles amongst older people. Undertake a promotional and awareness campaign informing older adults of the benefits of participating in an active lifestyle, and the various facilities and services available, by utilising:
Activity and Community Centres. Local General Practitioners. Resident newsletters and community noticeboards
Investigate options to better promote existing community gardens’ programs, and consider establishing a new community gardens where there is identified interest and demand.
Liaise with medical practitioners and other key health stakeholders to inform them of the various health and fitness facilities and other “active” programs which available within local communities (i.e. a partnership approach to preventative medicine).
NSW Sport & Recreation “Active Older Adults” 2002
Establish community walking programs and Tai Chi sessions in areas of the City where they do not currently exist, and where necessary, assist existing ones to expand. Develop and actively promote older persons gymnasium membership programs at King George V RC, Juanita Nielson Centre and Pyrmont CC as a strategy to encourage older persons’ use of gyms and to increase their use during traditionally low-use times of the day. Refer Strategic Objectives 22
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6. Involving the Community Strategic Objectives Women
Directions Promote and facilitate healthy and active lifestyles amongst women. Provision of safe walking paths and cycle routes. Promote the location of all City-based publicly accessible health & fitness centres.
Projects Initiatives / Actions Encourage the development of a ladies tennis competitions which utilises the City’s community tennis courts to ensure opportunities to participate are available locally for women.
Priority
Reference Documents
Refer Strategic Objective 23
Assist relevant clubs/associations to promote sport to girls and women (e.g. soccer, cricket, tennis, golf, etc.). Aboriginal People
Promote and facilitate healthy and active lifestyles amongst Aboriginal people Whilst the development of local Aboriginal sporting teams should be encouraged, where possible, the integration of Aboriginal children and adults into existing local sporting teams should be considered a higher priority.
Encourage local sporting teams and centre managers to actively promote sporting and recreation opportunities available through their respective organisations (perhaps using the Redfern CC as the key information and referral point). And where the financial situation of potential participants is a barrier to participation (i.e. cost of registration fees, gear, transport, etc), consider establishing a subsidy program to offset these costs. Refer Strategic Objective 24
CALD Communities
Promote and facilitate healthy and active lifestyles amongst CALD communities.
Ensure appropriate provision is made to encourage CALD communities to apply for seed funding for recreation program development from
Undertake research and consultation with CALD communities to identify current/emerging/future recreational needs and aspirations. Continue to provide opportunities for CALD communities to access indoor centres for recreation activities which are often “minor”
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6. Involving the Community Strategic Objectives
Directions Council’s annual grants scheme. Participate in wider health campaigns aimed at CALD communities initiated by government and other agencies.
Projects Initiatives / Actions or non-traditional sports (e.g. badminton, table tennis, indoor soccer and volleyball) and may on occasions require centre managers to forgo use from otherwise more profitable user groups, such as basketball groups/competitions.
Priority
Reference Documents
Refer Strategic Objective 25 People with a Disability (PWD)
Promote and facilitate opportunities for people with a disability to participate in recreation activities and enjoy the open space environment. Facilitate improved linkages between service providers and facility managers (e.g. pools, indoor centres) and sports club representatives.
Continue to support Agencies and Providers of services for PWD for the development and implementation of recreation programs by providing affordable access to Council owned facilities.
NSW Sport & Recreation “No Limits – Involving People with a Disability in your Sport” 2004
Prepare and implement a new policy (an “Inclusive Charter”) to encourage and support sports and recreation groups to provide inclusive recreation participation opportunities.
Facilitate training and education sessions for facility managers and club administrators in the area of dealing with PWDs.
Continue the capital improvement program improving accessibility of open space and community facilities, and the provision of disabled toilets. Refer Strategic Objective 26
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6. Involving the Community Strategic Objectives Events 61.
Support and encourage the use of parks for community and cultural events , celebrations, and community interaction.
Directions
Promote social interaction and sense of community through a regular and ongoing events program. Provide a diverse annual program of cultural and social events, and activities in major parks. Refer Strategic Objective 32 and 86
Projects Initiatives / Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
Continue to promote City community events in parks, including Surry Hills Festival, Redfern Waterloo Festival, Carols in the Park, etc. Continue to conduct and promote “Good Neighbours BBQs” organised by Safe City Unit. Investigate opportunities to conduct / facilitate temporary art installation projects within the open space network.
Communication and awareness 62.
Increase the awareness of people of the City’s diverse open space and recreation facility network.
Promote and communicate the benefits of active participation and the City’s recreation opportunities.
Social Plan 2006
Prepare communications strategy to provide information to community regarding open space, recreation facilities and programs. This may include a marketing and promotion strategy for city’s parks, recreation facilities and programs, through the mediums of facility directories, brochures, local community newsletters / noticeboards and City’s web site. Implement consistent branding of directional and promotional signage for all open space and recreation facilities.
63.
Promote community involvement in the management of parks.
Continue program of community planting days and school group planting programs at Sydney Park and promote benefits of trees to the community.
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6. Involving the Community Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives / Actions Investigate opportunities to develop and promote an Adopt a Park Scheme to encourage local residents to be involved in the care of neigbourhood parks.
Priority
Reference Documents
Investigate the feasibility of introducing an awards program for parks with high levels of community care (similar to UK Civic Trust Green Flag Awards). 64.
Facilitate partnerships to increase access to recreation and open space facilities not controlled by City of Sydney.
As a means to ensure maximum community benefit can be achieved from the limited provision of open space and recreation facilities available within the City, enter into partnerships to facilitate increased community usage of resources owned and managed by other providers.
Key opportunities to increase the suite of available facilities include partnerships with:
Work with school principals to maximise mutual benefits of community use of school facilities and school use of council facilities.
Investigate feasibility of City to become co partners to expand and redevelopment Alexandria Basketball Stadium at Perry Park to provide additional indoor court spaces and recreational facilities.
Alexandria Park Community School (sports field). Newtown PA School (sports field). Alexandria Basketball Stadium (indoor courts). Sydney University (various facilities).
Department of Education (Vic Govt) Schools as Community Facilities Policy Framework and Guidelines 2005
Establish Memorandums of Understanding with all other open space and recreation facility providers to provide security for long-term public access to nonCouncil resources.
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7. Recreation Will Be Environmentally Sustainable in the City Bringing nature into the City.
The City’s open space network provides more than just visual amenity or settings for recreation. It is an essential provider of bio-physical processes in an urban environment. The City is committed to fostering a sustainable and liveable city. This means in our stewardship of our parks and recreation facilities the City will maintain and increase biodiversity and health of ecosystems, and conserve natural resources. The City will work towards best practice environmental management by incorporating environmental sustainability principles into future open space and facility design, and maintenance activities. This will include design and implementation of energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, stormwater management, and biodiversity protection and enhancement. Water is the main resource used in open spaces and facilities. Use of potable water must be reduced and alternative sources identified and utilised.
7. Recreation Will Be Environmentally Sustainable in the City
65.
Strategic Objectives Commitment to sustainable water management and use.
Directions Implement the principles of water sensitive urban design in open space development and redevelopment. Reduce the amount of potable water used for park irrigation by developing alternative water sources. Where appropriate use endemic plant species, mulching and other water saving strategies to reduce water demand.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Incorporate water recycling strategies to all major parks. Options include retention and use of storm water, use of grey and reclaimed water. Key project initiatives for sustainable water management at the following sites:
Priority
Reference Documents Water Saving Action Plan 2006
Hyde Park. Sydney Park. Surry Hills Park. Prince Alfred Park. Redfern Park. Barcom Ave Park. Beare Park.
Increase levels of biodiversity 66.
Increase biodiversity by provision of and providing endemic species across the open space network for food habitat creation.
Plant indigenous species in open space areas, where possible and practical, unless there is an established park / heritage landscape character, a particular functional need, or a specific design feature that requires another species.
Assess small open space areas less than 500sqm that have limited useability for other recreational purposes to function as bio-reserves planted with endemic species to create habitat.
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Appendix 3 Project Sheet 33
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7. Recreation Will Be Environmentally Sustainable in the City
67.
Strategic Objectives Biodiversity strategy to provide and enhance habitat for native plants and animals.
Directions Investigate feasibility of using small, underutilised open spaces as “bioreserves”. Issues of visibility and safety to prime considerations in the design.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Larger parks in which Council needs to continue / reinforce biodiversity components include:
68.
Initiate partnerships to increase biodiversity along transport / utility corridors.
Develop partnerships with SRA, RTA, Sydney Water and Light Rail authorities to utilise residual land / reserves for biodiversity enhancements.
69.
Partnerships with schools to educate young people about care of the environment and sustainable management practices.
Encourage local schools to take an active interest in the biodiversity of their school grounds.
Reference Documents Appendix 3 Project Sheets 3, 9 & 12
Sydney Park. Glebe Foreshore Parklands (mangrove area). Federal Park (salt marsh wetland). Orphan School Creek Reserve.
Promote and enhance endemic species planting in the following utility corridors:
Priority
PyrmontUltimo Urban Landcare Group
Pyrmont Light Rail corridor. Southern Cross Drive road reserve. State Rail Authority Corridor. Sydney Water Reserves (Alexandra Canal network).
Provide support for National tree planting day activities in school grounds. Utilise school children for local reserve planting programs.
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7. Recreation Will Be Environmentally Sustainable in the City Strategic Directions Objectives Open Space Management and Maintenance 70.
Ensure principles of reducing, reusing and recycling are integral to the way all open space and recreation facilities are managed and used.
Parks maintenance operations to aim for an overall reduction in energy, water and chemical use in the management of all open spaces and recreation facilities. Require development and implementation of environmental management plans for future parks maintenance contracts.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Develop and implement Sustainable Operations Plan which aims to minimise and / or reduce environmental impacts of maintenance / operation and construction practices in the following areas:
Improve environmental performance of capital works projects through requirements of ongoing water, energy, and chemical savings in all design briefs.
Priority
Reference Documents
CoS Sustainable Asset Management Policy
Opportunities for non-chemical based materials in horticultural applications. Reduction in water demand. Reduction in energy demand. Tree protection. Soil erosion/sediment control. Air quality. Water quality and drainage. Green Waste management. Hazardous goods. Noise.
Conduct an environmental audit of materials used in open space management in terms of ecological impacts and sustainability of sources of supply. Energy Use 71.
Utilise latest sustainable environmental design and technology in open space development and redevelopment.
Conduct an audit of energy use in open space facilities and develop an open space energy management plan as part of City’s Environmental Management Plan.
Initial sites / projects for introduction of energy saving techniques include:
Increase the amount of renewable energy used in open space facilities and management,
Prince Alfred Park Pool upgrade. Victoria Park pool upgrade. Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre. Redfern Park. Proposed Southern
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CoS Energy Saving Action Plan CoS Environmental Management Plan
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7. Recreation Will Be Environmentally Sustainable in the City Strategic Objectives
Directions including the use of solar heating technology for lighting and water heating.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Area aquatic recreation facility and associated facilities.
Priority
Reference Documents
Park lighting to be upgraded with more energy efficient fittings. Use of recycled materials in park construction (recycled road base, crushed concrete, and recycled timber, etc). 72.
Waste Management
Investigate feasibility of establishing composting facilities in local parks where local demand and interest is high.
Events and sporting organisations utilising City’s open space network to adopt the waste wise principles.
Develop waste guidelines for community events. Develop green waste recycling initiatives for parks maintenance operations activities. Ensure sports field tenancy conditions include references to recycling and other waste wise techniques. Explore options for involvement of community gardens in the overall waste management program.
73.
Effective environmental education / interpretation.
Communication of sustainability initiatives undertaken by Council to promote wider use by other land managers, residents, and businesses.
Issue communication bulletins highlighting Council’s introduction and implementation of sustainable building or management practices.
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8. Looking After Our Parks and Recreation Facilities Efficient and effective planning, management and maintenance of our resources.
The City of Sydney is currently undergoing a revitalisation with substantial capital works expenditure in the creation and improvement of parkland and facilities. It is important to consolidate this development with a commitment to the ongoing maintenance and asset management of the living and built assets so that they continue to provide community benefits into the future. The planning, development, and management of open space and recreation facilities are key responsibilities of the Council. Best management practices will be adopted. The Council will take a lead advocacy role in regional open space planning and recreation facility provision in partnership with State Government Agencies, neighbouring local governments and other providers.
8. Looking After Our Parks and Recreation Facilities
74.
Strategic Objectives Improved planning of the open space network.
Directions Ensure that recreation open space acquired through development process is suitable for its intended purpose.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Assess potential land acquisitions against recommended criteria.
Priority
Reference Documents Appendix 4 Open Space Acquisition Criteria
Effective park management planning 75.
76.
Continue the preparation of Plans of Management and Master Plans to provide long term strategic directions and ensure that decision-making takes a coordinated approach.
City to meet statutory obligations with regards to community land management.
Establish an open space management framework.
Adopt the open space hierarchical and classifications system recommended in this study, which considers park catchments, size, setting and function
Prepare and update site specific and generic plans of management in accordance with statutory requirements.
Prepare generic plan of management for local parks and playgrounds. Prepare park master plans for the following sites:
Belmore Park. Observatory Hill Park. Wentworth Park. Fitzroy Gardens / Lawrence Hargrave Park. Erskineville Oval / Harry Noble Reserve. Review and align planning, design and management of parks, based on the recommended park management framework.
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8. Looking After Our Parks and Recreation Facilities Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
(refer Section 2, Volume 2 - Research & Analysis). 77.
Securing the future of open space with appropriate planning controls.
Inappropriately zoned and classified parks to be allocated Open Space Recreation zone and Community Land classification.
Identify and assess any inconsistencies between current LEP zonings and actual open space land use, and amend zoning accordingly in the City Plan.
78.
Effective partnerships and leadership in open space and recreation facility management.
Support a co-operative planning approach between City of Sydney, surrounding Councils and State Government to deliver better regional outcomes for sport and recreation and open space management.
Join the Sydney Urban Parks Education and research Group (SUPER), a collective of organisations with responsibility for open space management, to ensure involvement with and access to parks management benchmark data and best practice.
Ensure regular liaison and cooperative planning with the following Agencies:
DIPNR (Metropolitan Open Space Team). Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority. Centennial and Moore Park Trust. Botanic Gardens Trust. Redfern Waterloo Authority. Sydney University.
Conduct annual open space forums for park managers from State Government Agencies and adjoining Councils to assist in developing cooperative and creative approaches to open space planning and management.
Ensure that the City actively participates in benchmarking programs to identify and adopt best practice park management.
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8. Looking After Our Parks and Recreation Facilities
79.
Strategic Objectives Asset Management
Directions Protection of the investment by the City in its parks and recreation facilities by the implementation of best practice asset management processes.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Devise a Total Life Cycle Asset Management System.
Priority
Reference Documents
Continue to develop and maintain a parks asset inventory. Prepare an asset management plan that ensures long term maintenance and replacement of park facilities, furniture and equipment. Continue audits of all park infrastructure and record, monitor and schedule all maintenance. Continue to conduct asset condition audits for Council recreation facilities and prepare asset renewal and replacement plans which are costed and budgeted.
80.
Core Maintenance Service Levels
Ensure best practice maintenance standards apply to all parks and reserves.
Develop core levels of service for the open space network, based on open space classification, activities present and levels of usage. Complete current maintenance specification upgrade for external contracts to tailor service levels to park types and settings.
81.
Proactive tree management.
Prepare tree management plans for the City’s open space network.
Ongoing development of Tree Management Plans for the City's major parks. Tree Management Plans completed for: Hyde Park. Redfern Park. Prince Alfred Park. Turruwul Park.
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8. Looking After Our Parks and Recreation Facilities
82.
83.
84.
Strategic Objectives Conduct research to ensure that community trends are recognised and met where possible.
Directions Improve the information base upon which open space planning and recreation is undertaken through relevant research.
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Monitor and review local regional and international trends. Undertake regular park user surveys to ascertain use levels satisfaction levels. Monitor demographic change and trends in recreation and leisure and consider key impacts and implications to assist in planning and service provision. Ensure parks and recreation facility planning and program staff have opportunity to attend relevant seminars and conferences to keep abreast of industry trends and to establish and maintain a network of industry professionals.
Acknowledge and protect the cultural heritage values of the City’s open space network shall be enhanced.
Conserve and enhance cultural heritage items and values located in open space, prioritising those items of high cultural significance or requiring conservation works.
Develop and update conservation management assessments for all parks listed as heritage items on the LEP.
Parks Interpretation
Enhance community enjoyment and appreciation of parks through interpretation.
Develop a parks interpretation strategy that addresses:
85.
Where appropriate, consider underutilised land for disposal, and/or land of low community value.
Where there is underutilised open space with little opportunity to improve, and there will be no reduction in recreational opportunities, land should be considered for sale, if current zoning and land
Priority
Reference Documents
Hyde Park Heritage Assessment Study 2006 Redfern Park Heritage Assessment Study 2006
Appropriate media options. In-park signage. Public art. Community involvement.
Investigate the recreational value of retaining the following sites for community benefit:
306 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst. 194 George Street, Erskineville.
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8. Looking After Our Parks and Recreation Facilities Strategic Objectives
Directions
Projects Initiatives/ Actions
Priority
Reference Documents
classification allows. Funds raised from open space sales shall be used to acquire new open space or improvements to existing open space areas within the locale where the sale occurred. 86.
Manage event usage in open space network to ensure long-term viability of parkland is not compromised.
Prepare City of Sydney Outdoor Event Management Guidelines that provide clear guidelines for the application and management of outdoor public events in a way in which benefits to the community are maximised whilst potential negative impacts on the park are minimised.
Develop and implement CoS Outdoor Event Management Guidelines.
87.
Manage the optimal use of sports fields
Explore opportunities for achieving optimal use of sports fields through:
Conduct a sports forum with other agencies and adjoining Councils to establish how demand will be managed at a sub-regional level to match current and future resource availability.
88.
Ensure fair and equitable allocation of access to City’s sport and recreation facilities is maximised.
Flexible field and court layouts and markings. Improve drainage Use of synthetic surfaces. Lighting. Wet weather closure and field recovery parameters. Irrigation and lighting standards.
Ensure an efficient and effective booking procedure for Council facilities is in place.
Recreation facilities available for casual use will be easily hired.
Monitor the level of use of sports fields by groups which lease facilities, to ensure the facilities are being utilised at a levels agreed to. Options to improve community use of the tennis courts at
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8. Looking After Our Parks and Recreation Facilities Strategic Objectives
Directions Review the current management arrangements for the casual use of Council’s community tennis courts, as a strategy to increase their utilisation
Projects Initiatives/ Actions Alexandra Park, Beaconsfield Park, Turruwul Park and St James Park include:
89.
Management of homeless Persons use of open space
Ensure that people who are homeless are offered assistance and that they have access to appropriate support services to meet their needs. Ensure that people who are homeless are treated with respect and compassion.
Priority
Reference Documents
Opening the courts up for free access. Incorporating the responsibility for management with existing tennis court leaseholders. Outsource management to separate leaseholder. Setting up local committees of management to manage the bookings.
Implementation of the Draft CoS Homelessness Services Strategy 2006-2011.
Draft CoS Homelessnes s Services Strategy 2006-2011.
Cleansing and maintenance services to ensure upkeep of public domain for all users.
Social Plan 2006-2010 Draft Street Drinking Strategy 2006-2011
(The City recognises the right of everyone in the community to use public spaces. It also recognises the right of all people to have access to safe, secure and affordable housing).
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7.
CONCLUSION The City of Sydney Open Space & Recreation Needs Study has identified a range of issues and opportunities, and proposed strategies for the future provision of open space and recreation facilities and services across the Sydney City local government area for the next 10 - 20 years. The Strategy provides Council and other public and private stakeholders with planning direction to further develop and expand recreational resources, through a combination of new/improved parks and recreation facilities, improved linkages and connectedness between recreation precincts and districts, partnerships and management efficiencies. Council will need to do this to continue to meet the needs and aspirations of a changing resident and worker population, and can achieve this by building upon the already broad range of recreation facilities and high quality open space settings. The current extensive Capital Works Program which will result in a comprehensive renewal of the open space and recreation facility network will need to be consolidated by an asset management system and recreation programming to ensure continued community benefits into the future. The Open Space & Recreation Needs Strategy will ensure a focussed approach is taken by Council in relation to the provision and management of recreational resources across the City, and will contribute to a more effective delivery of infrastructure, facilities and services which will likely result in an increase in participation by residents in physical activity thereby enhancing their health and well being.
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APPENDIX 1 City of Sydney Map Showing Key Strategic Directions and Projects
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APPENDIX 2 Open Space Catchment Areas
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Open Space Catchment Areas Catchment Area (Refer to Strategy Map) Area A Green Square Town Centre
Area B Green Square
Total Area
Type
Requirements
Guidelines
24,340 sqm
Civic Spaces Local Parks
Green Square Town Centre DCP provides for two civic plaza spaces at 18,000 sq. m. and two local parks at 5,550 sq. m. and 790 sq. m.
As per design criteria included in Green Square Town Centre Development Control Plan.
5,000 sqm
Local Park
One park with an area of not less than 4,000 sq. m. (5,000 sq. m. preferable).
A preferred location for the proposed open space areas is the former RTA site in Rothschild Avenue, or the south west corner of Epsom Road & Dunning Avenue.
Mixed Use Area
Or Two parks with one park not being less than 3,000 sq. m. Active spaces for worker population.
Area C Green Square
6,000 sqm
Active spaces
Mixed Use / Employment Area
Area D Green Square
Local Park
8,000 sqm
Local Park Active spaces
Mixed Use / Employment Area
Two parks with one park being not less than 3,000 sq. m. Other parks or public open space configured in support of parks and or canal pedestrian connections. One park minimum of 5,000 sq. m. to be configured for stormwater detention on a block south of Epsom Road.
A preferred location for the proposed open space is on the former Dolina site, south of Epsom Road.
Other parks or public open space configured in support of parks and or canal pedestrian connections.
This location may be altered in response to detailed master planning or through negotiation of a planning agreement with Developer(s)
Active spaces for worker population. Area E Green Square Future Recreation Precinct
20,000 sqm
District Park
Location may be altered in response to detailed master planning or through negotiation of a planning agreement with Developer(s). This location may be altered in response to detailed master planning or through negotiation of a planning agreement with Developer(s)
One park of approximately 20,000 sq. m, to be configured for stormwater detention.
Distribution to be determined as an outcome of detailed master planning undertaken by the City of Sydney.
Recreation Precinct Park to comprise of aquatic facility, indoor multipurpose courts, playing field, district level playground and skate facilities.
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Catchment Area (Refer to Strategy Map) Area F Green Square
Total Area
Type
Requirements
Guidelines
11,000 sqm
Local Parks
Three parks (total area approx 5,000 sq. m.) provided in vicinity of Sydney Gate to assist with storm water management.
Stormwater detention park preferred location on the former Kraft/Panasonic sites at the low drainage point.
Mid-block Precinct
Within remainder of precinct:
Area G Green Square
7,000 sqm
Local Park
Smaller park preferred location on the ‘metal scrap yard’ site on Amelia/Murray Streets.
One park minimum 4,000 sq. m. to be configured for stormwater detention. Other park of approximately 2,000 sq. m., preferably along alignment of Gadigal Avenue (extension of Bruce Street).
Email site to provide new park adjacent to existing Mary O’Brien Reserve.
Refer to Appendix 3 Project Sheet 37 - Email Park.
Email Site Opportunity for future open space provision in vicinity of McPherson Lane. Area H Green Square
6,000 sqm
Local Park
One park minimum 5,000 sq. m. to be configured for stormwater detention.
Preferred location on southern sector of Sydney Water site to provide curtilage to heritage buildings.
10,000 sqm
Local Park
One park with a minimum area of 5,000 sq. m.
Each park or piece of open space to be provided as single contiguous parcel.
Sydney Water Precinct
Area I Green Square Western Employment Area
Other parks or public open space configured in support of parks and or Canal Open Space Links.
Location and configuration to be resolved through detailed design at master planning stage or through negotiation of a planning agreement with Developer(s). Preferred location of major park adjoining the canal, at the confluence of the canal tributaries (Bowden/Mandible Streets).
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Catchment Area (Refer to Strategy Map) Area J
Total Area
Type
Requirements
Guidelines
7,400 sqm
Local park
One main area of public open space in the form of a park of an area not less than 7,400 sq. m. to be provided within the precinct.
Preferred location to connect to major pedestrian and cycle links adjacent to Erskineville Oval and Sydney Park.
Ashmore Estate
Design Criteria included in Ashmore Estate DCP 2006.
Area K
5,000 sqm
Local Park
CUB Site*
The City is seeking a one main park area that is a minimum of 5,000 sq. m. * In December 2005, the City of Sydney and the Central Sydney Planning Committee (CSPC) endorsed public exhibition of draft planning controls for the CUB site.
Park is to be accessible to existing community and serve as a focus of a linked network of other public spaces throughout the site. Refer Appendix 3 Project Sheet 39 – Carlton and United Brewery Site.
However, the Minister for Planning announced he would take over the project, using the new Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, introduced last year.
Area L East Darling Harbour (Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority)
110,000sqm (11Ha)
District Park
11 Ha of parkland to be provided. Opportunity to provide a place in which people can experience a variety and diversity of park experiences, including foreshore promenade, spaces that are more intimate, quiet and sheltered spaces, and open areas for ball games.
Refer Appendix 3 Project Sheet 40 - East Darling Harbour. Provision of a generous foreshore promenade space where people can engage with the water. Flexibility and multipurpose use of the space will be important, and so a space of this type would also provide opportunities for festivals, community gatherings, NYE fire-works, etc. Provision of substantial playground facilities at East Darling Harbour will provide a focal point / activity generation.
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Catchment Area (Refer to Strategy Map) Area M
Total Area
Type
Requirements
Guidelines
Min 3,000 sqm
Local Park
Park as a nodal point connected to Alexandria Canal open space linkages.
Preferred location to be on corner of Doody and Ralph Streets.
Doody St Precinct
Provide accessible local open space for recently proposed apartment development along Botany Road. Area N
Min 3,000 sqm
Local Park
Park to provide local open space.
Location to provide good connections to McLachlan Way link and through site to link to Neild Avenue.
Min 3,000 sqm.
Local Parks
One small park associated with development at 1-3 Larkin Street has already been provided.
Preferred corner location with good access / connections to Orphan School Creek open space corridor.
McLachlan Ave Precinct Area O Westons Biscuits Precinct
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
APPENDIX 3 Open Space and Recreation Facility Project Initiatives
No. 03A City of Sydney Open Space Strategy - Volume 1 - The Strategy(161006).doc
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Appendices
Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
APPENDIX 4 Open Space Acquisition Criteria
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Appendices
Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
Open Space Acquisition Guidelines Criteria Size
Comment Preferably, acquisitions should be a minimum of 3,000-5,000 sq. m. for local parks unless site will increase area of adjoining open space, or provide a lineal connection to nearby open space.
Upper limit of the minimum size is preferred which allows the accommodation of a variety and diversity of open space uses and amenity.
Spaces need to be large enough to have a sense of openness and opportunities to create a green space.
Shape
Comfort and Amenity
Preferably, land should be of regular shapes (square or rectangular) to allow flexibility for useable open space. Minimum width for access corridors is10m. Provide good solar access and protection from wind and traffic noise.
Long narrow parks are generally unacceptable unless the prime function is for linking larger park areas.
Site should have the potential to provide a visually attractive and pleasant environment for users.
Access and Visibility Accessibility
Distance from any residence to park Park boundary
Location and park landscape should maximise access for people with mobility difficulties. All residents should be within a ten minute walk (approx 400m) of local open space. The site should clearly demonstrate that it is public open space.
Substantial road frontage is crucial in local parks to ensure good access and good community surveillance.
Min 50% road frontage.
Constraints
Connectivity
Corner street frontages are preferable to ensure identification as a public place and contribute to security and surveillance of the site. Local parks shall not be separated from catchment by physical barriers, such as busy roads. The site should be located on identified pedestrian and cycle routes and offer potential to link to adjoining open space.
Location and urban design must provide for multi mode access.
Site must provide for safe and convenient access.
Land Quality
Maximum slope 1:4. Suitable for intended purpose (generally flat and usable).
Assessing the land quality will minimise development and maintenance costs and ensure long term flexibility in use of the park.
Not constrained by contaminated land restrictions or property easements.
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
APPENDIX 5 Recreation Precinct Parks
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Redfern Park
8
Waterloo Oval
9
11
Alexandria Park Erskineville Oval / Harry Noble Reserve Sydney Park
12
Perry Park
13
Turruwul Park Centennial and Moore Parks* ( Centennial and Moore Park Trust) Proposed Parks Green Square Recreation Precinct Park East Darling Harbour
2
Wentworth Park
3
Victoria Park
4
6
Prince Alfred Park Cook and Phillip Park / The Domain Rushcutters Bay Park
7
Public Toilets
Café
Dog Exercise
Skateboard
Glebe Foreshore Parklands
Aquatic Facilities
1
PARKS
Court Facilities
Picnic / Socialise
Playing Fields
Walking / Jogging
Playgrounds
Recreation Precinct Parks
Existing Parks
5
10
14
15 16
Liaison with SHFA required to determine facility mix
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
APPENDIX 6 Playground Facility Assessments and Directions
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
Playground Facility Assessments and Direction
1. Introduction The Draft Playground Facility Assessments and Direction has been developed to provide a strategic direction and policy base for the future provision, development, management and maintenance of Council’s playgrounds.
2. Context The City of Sydney has 87 playgrounds under its care, control and management. Of all recreational facilities that can be accommodated in the open space network it is expected playgrounds should be provided at a local and neighbourhood level. In general, playgrounds are maintained to a high standard, with even older playgrounds being in a serviceable condition. Sites of significant safety risk have progressively been eliminated over the last 5 years with programmed capital works upgrades. However, while there are some notable exceptions the play value and interest offered by the City’s playgrounds is generally below what should be expected and below what can be provided with contemporary materials and design approaches.
3. Importance of Playgrounds Every child has a right to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child, and to participate freely in cultural life and arts. Article 31, United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child
Under the Local Government Act, Council has the responsibility to provide and plan for the needs of children, and to ensure access and equity considerations are met. Sydney City Council’s Social Plan 2006-2010 includes children in the 0-11 age group as a target group to consider as per the requirements of the Act. In meeting the needs of children, playgrounds provide a vital, low cost and accessible family focussed environment for children to participate in leisure. The ongoing trends of less children participating in physical activity provides informs the key future direction of playgrounds being to improve the quality of playgrounds to encourage longer and more enjoyable visits to playground sites.
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4. Children in the City of Sydney The Social Plan 2006-2010 provides a comprehensive snapshot of the profile children in the City of Sydney as a sector of the overall population. The projected number of child residents is indicated in the table on the following page.
Year
Estimated No. of Children Aged 0-12 years)
2004
9,612
2009
10,379
2014
11,131
2019
11,901
Source: City of Sydney Social Plan 2006-2010
According to the 2001 census the City of Sydney was home to 615 preschoolers, 3,014 infant and primary school students and 3,022 high school students. The distribution and profile of children across Sydney City by planning district and based on 2001 Census data is illustrated in the following table. Planning District
Profile
CBD
Fastest growing proportion of children in Haymarket Expected rise in ‘couples having children’ and choosing to stay within the area Increasing proportion of children in Paddington and Centennial Park Expected rise in ‘couples having children’ and choosing to stay within the area High proportion of teenagers in Glebe / Forest Lodge area High proportion of High School teenagers in Waterloo area Expected rise in ‘couples having children’ and choosing to stay within the area Preschool-aged children and primary school-aged children were most common in Rosebery / Green Square area
City East Inner East City West North West Inner South Inner West South East
South West
Rosebery attractive area for families due to availability of detached housing (54% of occupied dwellings) High proportion of children and early teenagers. Expected rise in ‘couples having children’ living the area.
Source: 2001 Census Data
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5. Disability By interpolating from the Survey of Disability 1998, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) estimated that Sydney City had about 592 children under 15 years with a disability, or 4.7% of child residents. Disability rates rose with age, even among children, from 3.9% of 0-4 year olds to 5.8% of 5–9 year olds and 5.2% of 10-14 year olds. (Refer table on the following page). The NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC) reported that the City of Sydney served some 445 children with a disability in 2000.
Age Group
Boys
Girls
Children
%
0-4 years
108
56
164
3.9%
5-9 years
140
84
224
5.8%
10-14 years
128
76
204
5.2%
TOTAL
376
216
592
4.7%
Children With a Disability in CoS, 2001
6. Playground Distribution The following table summarises the current provision of playgrounds across Sydney City by planning district.
Planning District
Number of Council Playgrounds
Adjacent District Level Playgrounds Not Controlled by City
CBD
4
Tumbelong Park, Darling Harbour Centennial Park Playgrounds
City East
7
Inner East
14
Entertainment Quarter (Fox Studios Precinct) -
Inner South
8
-
City West
5
-
North West
16
-
South West
9
-
South East
8
-
Inner West
16
Camperdown Park Playground
TOTAL
87
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7. Key Principles All playgrounds within the City of Sydney will be developed to be:
Designed to a high standard with diverse approaches and provision of interesting and stimulating environments, and fun play value.
Well supported by amenities, such as seats, paths, shade trees and drinking fountains appropriate to facility hierarchy level.
Themed in some way no matter what size or category.
Accessible to children with disabilities and their carers.
Equitably distributed throughout the City in accessible and inviting settings within 5 - 10 minutes walk of all households.
Safe and well maintained.
Inclusive of community input into design and siting.
Part of an overall provision to contribute to the City eventually becoming a UNESCO designated “Child Friendly City”.
8. Strategic Directions The following strategic directions underpin the future strategy for the provision of playgrounds.
Criteria or Elements of Provision
Considerations
Design Design Approach
It is recommended the City adopt a play space and development model that provides for active and explorative play, plus addresses the needs of care givers. Improve design standards of all playgrounds by focusing on better play value (fun and diversity), accessibility and integrated park design. Considerations: Playgrounds located in close proximity to each other (i.e. 400 - 500m apart) should be planned as playground networks which provide spaces that offer diversity in play choice, themes and age-group focus. Provision of equipment and active play elements that facilitate such activities as swinging, sliding, climbing and spinning. Provision of open space to encourage running and playing informal ball games. Opportunities for explorative / creative play should be provided through landscape design, innovative and
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Criteria or Elements of Provision
Considerations thoughtful plant selection, and art work to encourage children’s intellectual and imaginative development. Awareness of carer’s needs that will allow easy supervision as well as providing a degree of comfort and amenity appropriate to the hierarchy of the playground. Integration of opportunities and amenities for children with disabilities, inclusive of sensory experiences and not just physical access. The design of the whole park should be considered when designing new, relocating or upgrading playgrounds. Ideally, a master plan would be developed for each park prior to or in conjunction with the installation or upgrade of playgrounds.
Safety Standards
Compliance with Australian Standards AS 1924.1 (1981); AS 1924.2 (1981); AS/NZ 4422 (1996); and AS/NZ 4486.1 (1997). Council will invoke the “precautionary principle” and will not use CCA treated pine in the design and construction of any playgrounds.
Shade
Where possible, the design and siting of playgrounds will be undertaken with a view to locating facilities near existing shade trees, or to planting new trees. Installation of shade structures over playgrounds to be considered on a site-by-site basis at larger Local and District / Regional playgrounds. Provide Sun Smart advice through signage at playgrounds (based on Cancer Council directions).
Support Facilities Encourage use and activation of the playground network through provision of appropriate support facilities, such as seats, tables, BBQs, etc.
Access and Equity Provide equitable distribution of playgrounds across Sydney City.
Community Involvement
Facility guidelines for playground hierarchy types provide an appropriate range of facilities and amenities to create comfortable and welcoming places.
While all playgrounds should maximise accessible design, it is recognised that Council only has the opportunity to provide comprehensive accessible designs and equipment ranges and associated facilities at larger parks rather than smaller Local level playgrounds.
City to seek community input into the planning and design of playground facilities.
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Criteria or Elements of Provision
Considerations
Provision Hierarchy
Sydney City Council adopt a system of playground hierarchy that will provide for Neighbourhood, Local, District and Regional needs of the community. Develop a hierarchy whereby Neighbourhood and Local playgrounds can provide basic play opportunities to occupy a child for a limited time of up to an hour whilst developing District and Regional spaces that comprise greater diversity in play space and support facilities to promote longer stays.
Redevelopment / Closure of Playgrounds
Consider range of issues in checklist (refer Section 11) before redeveloping existing play areas.
Management Maintenance
Ongoing maintenance of playgrounds is essential to ensure safe play areas for children. Minimise risk and litigation claims.
Sydney City Council will continue to maintain a high level of maintenance and safety review across all of its playgrounds. Continue formal system of maintenance through:
Inventory. Audit. Inspections. Development of prioritised action plans.
Replace dangerous, non-complying equipment. Repair damaged or faulty equipment. Marketing
Sydney City Council actively market and promote the network of playgrounds to ensure maximum community access ands use by preparing a playground location and play features brochure and supplying up to date information on the Council’s website.
9. Playground Hierarchy A playground facility hierarchy provides the tools and principles to determine the distribution of playgrounds, catchment area and design. In planning the distribution of playgrounds within Sydney City, a key goal is to maximise the opportunity to have access to one or more playgrounds within catchment distances that offer a variety of playground design styles and to ensure diversity of play experiences.
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Regional
Provides greater play opportunities intended for multiple hour visits.
Uniquely designed elements to provide a diversity of play opportunities and play themes, including adventure play.
Associated facilities include public toilets, paths, BBQs, shade structures and car parking.
Located in proximity to large open space areas to allow unstructured play / free running / ball games.
Close to public transport modes.
Potential co-location with youth facilities, such as basketball / netball courts and rebound walls.
Catchment is whole of LGA and surrounding areas, and will attract organised or planned trips.
A high level of landscape treatments and supporting amenities.
District
Playgrounds are large in scale, individually designed with strong themes and contain a large number of play activities to cater for a diverse range of children and carers.
Promotes / encourages longer stays.
Close to public transport.
Usually associated with other supporting and complementary facilities, such as public toilets, sports fields, hard court spaces, aquatic facilities, and kiosk / amenities blocks.
Set in attractive surroundings.
Located to cater for more than one suburb catchment.
Also function as a Local level playground facility for immediate resident base.
Local
Visited by people who live within the suburb.
Access is predominantly by foot for visits of up to 1 - 2 hours duration.
Easily accessed by local community, with walking distance of 500 - 1000m catchment.
Provides varied range of equipment and play themes for all ages, and opportunities for kick around, free running activities and ball games.
Support facilities such as shelters, BBQs and public toilets only considered for playgrounds co-located with other recreational facilities, such as sports ovals and hard court spaces.
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Neighbourhood
Usually limited to small park locations of areas less than 2,000 sq. m.
Small playground sites catering for junior age children aged less than 7 years.
Designed for short stay experiences.
Easily accessed playgrounds catering for immediate local community within a catchment of 200 - 300m, or 5 - 10min walk.
Visits predominantly by walking and for duration of 30 - 60mins.
Opportunity to have themed design and to create a network of different play experiences and types if multiple playgrounds are located within 200 - 300m of each other.
Basic provision of equipment.
Small scale and size of parks will be a limiting factor in design and provision.
A summary of recommended associated facilities by playground hierarchy level are provided in the following table. Public toilets
BBQs / Picnic facilities
Regional
District
Hierarchy Level
Local Neighbourhood
fountains
Suitable shade
Car parking
Seating
Rubbish bins
Drinking
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10. Assessment An assessment has been carried out on the current provision of playgrounds across Sydney City, and proposed directions for new/improved playground development has been made in the context of the previously described hierarchy and associated level of provision.
Millers Point, Dawes Point, The Rocks CBD
2
1
District
Local
CBD
Suburb
N’hood
Planning Area / Suburb
Current Provision
1
Assessment
Proposed Directions
Good distribution and access to Local / Neighbourhood playground facilities.
Maintain current facility level and types.
CBD does not have a prominent playground facility catering for City visitors and residents.
Provide CBD playground to District level. Investigate potential of locating facility in Cook and Phillip Park.
Existing Cook and Phillip Park playground (Phillip Centre) lacks connection to CBD activities and is not of a scale to attract visitors from a wider catchment.
Opportunity to partner with Australian Museum to create unique play and learning environment that is a landmark destination. Could incorporate a section of Cook and Phillip Plaza as a child friendly space. Cater for City visitors and local residents.
Haymarket
0
0
0
Demographic snapshot indicates that Haymarket has a growing population of young children.
Opportunity to provide playground facilities is limited – Belmore Park is a potential location for a playground.
Current playground facilities at Darling Harbour.
City East
Wooll’loo
1
Potts Point
0
D’Hurst
3
Woolloomooloo Playground to be maintained at high end Local level facility 0
0
Access to District level playground at Fitzroy Gardens. Continue to maintain existing Neighbourhood level facilities. Access to proposed Cook and Phillip Park playground and the Fitzroy Gardens playground.
Elizabeth Bay Potts Point
2
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Opportunities to expand existing Fitzroy Gardens' playground to high standard Local / District level. © Stratcorp Consulting 2006
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
District
Local
Suburb
N’hood
Planning Area / Suburb
Current Provision Assessment
Proposed Directions
Should be investigated during future master plan process for Fitzroy Gardens and Lawrence Hargrave Park. Rushcutters Bay
1
Rushcutters Bay Park to accommodate Local level playground facility. Access to Fitzroy Gardens' facility.
City West
Pyrmont
1
Ultimo
1
1
Pyrmont Point Park / Water Police site – extend diversity of playground facility to District level amenity.
2
Ada Street Playground to provide play experience that doesn’t necessarily rely on structured equipment provision. Fig Street Playground is a high quality facility within 100m of the Ada Street site.
Inner East
Surry Hills
5
3
Develop District level playground at Prince Alfred Park. Progress upgrade of senior playground at Eddie Ward Park.
East Redfern
4
Good distribution of local playground facilities, i.e. James Street and Marriot Reserve playgrounds
Progress upgrade of Marriot Street and James Street Playgrounds as Local facilities. Due to close proximity of these facilities equipment types and themes should be diverse to create a neighbourhood playground network.
Paddington
1
Increasing population of young children in area.
Redevelop/ improve Oately Road playground to local facility. Investigate if facility should be located to John Thomson Reserve to allow for improved access and amenity.
Only one Local facility (Oately Road), however, Centennial Park and Oxford Street Gates Playground provides a District / Regional level play facilities.
Moore Park / Centennial Park
Close proximity to Centennial Park playground facilities.
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Ensure ease of pedestrian / pram access to Centennial Park
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Inner West
Redfern
3
2
Waterloo
1
Chippendale
2
Darlington
1
Eveleigh
1
Erskineville Newtown
9
District
Local
Inner South
Suburb
N’hood
Planning Area / Suburb
Current Provision Assessment
Proposed Directions
Redfern Park developed to District level standard facility. Maintain current provision and upkeep of facility at Waterloo Park. Investigate feasibility of improved links to Victoria Park playground at Myrtle St / City Road.
1
3
Charles Kiernan Reserve to be upgraded to provide Local level facility. Rotary Park Playground is in poor condition / amenity level.
Upgrade Rotary Park Playground to cater for 7 -12 years age group and provide a kick around space.
Well provided for with Neighbourhood playgrounds.
Harry Noble Reserve and Hollis Park to provide high end Local play facilities. Due to close proximity of Neighbourhood park play facilities equipment types and themes, the smaller playgrounds should be diverse so as to create an integrated Neighbourhood playground network. Flora/Knight Reserve and 3-5 Amy Street require an active kick around space.
Camperdown
1
Victoria Park has poor quality facility. There is an opportunity to redevelop the playground as part of a “recreation precinct “focus for Victoria Park.
Opportunity to develop the playground into a District level facility with co-location with the aquatic centre, and available car parking. The provision of public toilets would determine the sites level of success as a “destination” facility. Safe crossing at City Road / Myrtle Street is required for Chippendale area to access playground. Due to close proximity of Horden, Egan and Church Streets playgrounds, these facilities, equipment types, and themes should be diverse to create a Neighbourhood playground network.
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Rosebery
3
1
District
Local
South East
Suburb
N’hood
Planning Area / Suburb
Current Provision Assessment
Apart from Kimberly Grove Playground, the remaining facilities are fair to poor quality. Kimberly Grove offers limited challenge / interest for children +3 years. Existing facilities at Turruwul Park and Crete Reserve
Proposed Directions
Turruwul Park to be developed to District level facility. Crete Reserve developed to Neighbourhood level facility to cater for 0-7 years age group. At Bannerman Crescent Reserve there is an opportunity to provide a kick around space / active zone for older children, with less emphasis on traditional equipment provision. At Kimberly Grove expand equipment range to offer choice to older children.
Beaconsfield
1
1
Beaconsfield Park Playground to provide all ages play space. Janet Bierne Reserve upgrade for 0-7 years age group play and social recreation.
Zetland Waterloo
1
1
Demographic projections indicate an increased population of young children in area. Tote Park playground provides high quality Local facility.
South West
Alexandria St Peters
8
1
Green Square proposed open space need to accommodate play facilities. Investigate opportunity to colocate a District / Regional level facility as part of the Southern Area aquatic recreation facility development. Sydney Park to be developed as Regional facility with All Ability Access with a network of play spaces throughout the park. Co location with children’s bike circuit, toilets and shelters amenities. Perry Park – focus on 8-12 years Priority Neighbourhood facilities for upgrade include Bowden/Lawrence Street Playground Dibbs Street Playgrounds.
North West
Glebe
11
2
1
Local / Neighbourhood Park level playgrounds have undergone extensive upgrades in 2004-2006.
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Federal Park Playground prime focus district/ regional facility. Jubilee Park facility to offer different play themes and experience to provide diversity in the network. © Stratcorp Consulting 2006
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Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
Forest Lodge
District
Local
Suburb
N’hood
Planning Area / Suburb
Current Provision Assessment
2
Proposed Directions
Orphan School Creek corridor parklands local playground facility
11. Amalgamation, Relocation, Upgrading and Closure Playground provision should not be undertaken in isolation from the planning of community facilities and open space planning. It is recommended that Council consider a range of issues outlined before redeveloping existing play areas. The guidelines on the following page reflect current thinking on playground provision and should provide a basis on which to review the appropriateness of existing playgrounds. It is recognised that not all criteria will be met in each instance, however, there should be at least 2-3 factors that determine the rationalisation or upgrade of a playground. A dominant factor should be whether there is existing or potential demand for the playground. Checklist Questions Location Questions Is location central and accessible Is the site safe ( away from traffic areas) Is the site linked to other community facilities Is the site shady or has the potential for shade Is the site near areas for play / sport activities Is there another playground located nearby (generally within 500m to cater for local needs)
Condition Questions Is the playground safe Is the playground in good condition Is the equipment within recommended lifespan
Demand Is there a need for a playground in relation to local demographics Is there a demand from surrounding residents Are there likely to be numbers of young families and children for the next 5 years Is there a demand for other recreation areas / facilities.
In areas of oversupply, once playgrounds reach the end of their serviceable life, they will not be replaced.
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12. Playground Removals Providing a fair and equitable spread of playgrounds across Sydney City needs to be balanced with maintaining a manageable number of good quality playgrounds. The removal of playgrounds needs to be coordinated with the upgrade of specific nearby playgrounds. Playgrounds considered for removal should be sites that offer poor play value and are nearby other parks which are considered to provide better opportunities for quality playgrounds. Playgrounds nominated for removal will generally only be dismantled once an adjacent playground is upgraded. The removal of a playground does not mean that the park will be abandoned by Council. There are many small parks across the City that do not contain playgrounds but which are valuable open space areas for the local community in their own right. Prior to the removal of a playground from a park, a sketch landscape plan will be undertaken to scope possible improvements. Some parks may require new paths, seats, tree plantings or be designed to a better quality informal space which might not have been possible when the playground was on the site. The proposed works need to be undertaken with comprehensive community consultation.
AREA (m2)
PLANNING DISTRICT
PROPOSED PLAYGROUND HIERARCHY LEVEL AND AGE GROUP FOCUS NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
SUBURB
NAME
No.
ADDRESS
DAWES POINT
Trinity Avenue Playground The Paddock Clyne Reserve
2436
Trinity Avenue
115
CBD
Pottinger Street (west)
720
CBD
LOCAL 0-12 years
2
Merriman Street
2200
CBD
SYDNEY
Cook + Phillip Park
4
College Street
33690
CBD
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-12 years REGIONAL 0-12 years
DARLINGHUR ST
Surrey St Playground
69A
Surrey Street
171
CITY EAST
DARLINGHUR ST
Lacrozia Playground
218228
Barcom Avenue
753
CITY EAST
DARLINGHUR ST
Albert Sloss Reserve Beare Park
225245
Palmer Street
950
CITY EAST
13
Esplanade Road
4,534
CITY EAST
LOCAL 0-12 years
Fitzroy Gardens Rushcutter s Bay Park Woolloomo oloo Playground
6064
Macleay Street
10,606
CITY EAST
DISTRICT 0-12 years
Waratah Street
43,538
CITY EAST
LOCAL 0 – 7 years
2,510
CITY EAST
LOCAL 0-12 years
MILLERS POINT MILLERS POINT
ELIZABETH BAY ELIZABETH BAY RUSHCUTTE RS BAY WOOLLOOM OOLOO
94124
Dowling Street
UPGRADED/ NEW FACILITY
UPGRADE PROGRAMM ED
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
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SUBURB
NAME
PYRMONT
Pyrmont Point Park/ Water Police Site James Watkinson Reserve
PYRMONT
No.
ADDRESS
2224
Pirrama Road
1A
CITY WEST
Mill Street
4174
CITY WEST
Jones Street to Bulwara Road & Fig Lane
2110
CITY WEST
LOCAL 0-7 years
120542
CITY WEST
McKee Street Oatley Road
1097 1346
CITY WEST INNER EAST
DISTRICT 0-12 years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years LOCAL 0-7years
Kepos Street cnr Zamia St
474
INNER EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
James Street and Young Lane
492
INNER EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
320334
Wattle Lane Park Oatley Reserve
1733 4
REDFERN EAST
Elizabeth McCrea Playground
3945
REDFERN EAST
Young & James Playground
REDFERN EAST
Chelsea St Playground
3943
Chelsea Street
REDFERN EAST
Hanson Cab Place
1A
REDFERN EAST
Marriot Street Closure
SURRY HILLS
Fanny Place Playground Edgely Street Reserve
446
SURRY HILLS
Reserve
SURRY HILLS SURRY HILLS
ULTIMO ULTIMO PADDINGTON
SURRY HILLS
SURRY HILLS
PLANNING DISTRICT
12500
Fig Lane Park Wentworth Park
ULTIMO
AREA (m2)
PROPOSED PLAYGROUND HIERARCHY LEVEL AND AGE GROUP FOCUS
Wentworth Park Road
UPGRADED/ NEW FACILITY
UPGRADE PROGRAMM ED
DISTRICT 0-12 years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
1062
INNER EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
Young La
411
INNER EAST
Cooper Street and Marriot Street
360
INNER EAST
Bourke Street
300
INNER EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
Edgely Street ( besides Nickson Street)
828
INNER EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
8084
Arthur Street cnr Phelps La
363
INNER EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
Wimbo Reserve
560576
Bourke Street
1486
INNER EAST
James Hilder Reserve Shannon Reserve
121131
Campbell Street
1536
INNER EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years
450
Crown Street
2667
INNER EAST
LOCAL 0-12 years
No. 03A City of Sydney Open Space Strategy - Volume 1 - The Strategy(161006).doc
© Stratcorp Consulting 2006
Appendices
Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
AREA (m2)
PLANNING DISTRICT
8752
INNER EAST
PROPOSED PLAYGROUND HIERARCHY LEVEL AND AGE GROUP FOCUS LOCAL 0-12 years
72740
INNER EAST
DISTRICT 0-12 years
183
INNER SOUTH
1847
INNER SOUTH
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7years LOCAL 0-12 years
Eveleigh Street
196
INNER SOUTH
32_3 8
Douglas Street
829
INNER SOUTH
Reconciliati on Park
13_1 5
George Street cnr James St
1007
INNER SOUTH
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
REDFERN
Redfern Community Centre(Wil son Bros )
2854
Louis Street
2712
INNER SOUTH
LOCAL 0-12 years
REDFERN
Redfern Park Waterloo Park & Mount Carmel Victoria Park
51
Redfern Street
48169
INNER SOUTH
DISTRICT 0-12 years
2B
Elizabeth Street
15000
INNER SOUTH
LOCAL 0-12 years
1001
City Road
89,860
INNER WEST
DISTRICT 0-12 years
SUBURB
NAME
No.
ADDRESS
SURRY HILLS
Eddie Ward Park
45
Marlborough Street cnr Devonshire Street
SURRY HILLS
Prince Alfred Park Vine Street Playground
1003
Charles Kernan Reserve Eveleigh St Playground
296304
Abercrombie Street
119
REDFERN
Douglas St Playground
REDFERN
DARLINGTON DARLINGTON
REDFERN
WATERLOO
CAMPERDOW N CHIPPENDAL E
Strickland Park
39
5961
CHIPPENDAL E ERSKINEVILL E
Peace Park Ethel St Playground
ERSKINEVILL E
Pinkstone Playground
16
ERSKINEVILL E
Burren Street Reserve Kirsova Playground #1
ERSKINEVILL E
7080
Chalmers Street Vine Street
Balfour Street cnr Bartley St
Myrtle Street btwn Pine & Buckland Sts Ethel Street
379
INNER WEST
UPGRADED/ NEW FACILITY
UPGRADE PROGRAMM ED
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
970 158
INNER WEST INNER WEST
Septimus Street cnr Baldwin Street
171
INNER WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
8690
Burren Street
392
INNER WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
136140
George Street
392
INNER WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
No. 03A City of Sydney Open Space Strategy - Volume 1 - The Strategy(161006).doc
© Stratcorp Consulting 2006
Appendices
Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
SUBURB
NAME
ERSKINEVILL E
Rochford Street Playground Harry Noble Reserve
109113 1A
South Sydney Rotary Park WJ Thurbon Playground M.J Hayes Playground
53
Ernest Wright Playground Goddard Playground
ERSKINEVILL E EVELEIGH
NEWTOWN
NEWTOWN
NEWTOWN
NEWTOWN
NEWTOWN
NEWTOWN ANNANDALE
Lillian Fowler Reserve Hollis Park
No.
ADDRESS
PLANNING DISTRICT
664
INNER WEST
Swanson Street cnr Fox Avenue
15000
INNER WEST
LOCAL 0-12 years
Henderson Road
5,600
INNER WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 7- 12 years
Brown Lane
139
INNER WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Egan Street
209
INNER WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
24
Horden Street
209
INNER WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
3943
O’Connell Street
335
INNER WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
27
Angel Street
2226
INNER WEST
LOCAL 5-12 years
168184
Wilson Street
4710
INNER WEST
LOCAL 0- 7 years
32,411
NORTH WEST
REGIONAL 0-12 years
3
Rochford Street
AREA (m2)
PROPOSED PLAYGROUND HIERARCHY LEVEL AND AGE GROUP FOCUS NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Chapman Road
FOREST LODGE FOREST LODGE
Federal Park Arundel St Playground May Pitt Playground
FOREST LODGE
Ross St Playground
GLEBE
Leichhardt St Reserve
47
GLEBE
Thomas Portley Reserve
6466
GLEBE
Cardigan St Park
GLEBE
Kirsova Playground #3
181
Arundel Street
218.6
NORTH WEST
205209
St Johns Road
350.5
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
507
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Leichhardt
1,500
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Bellevue Street (cnr Cardigan St)
313.5
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Cardigan Street btwn Darghan St & Darling Ln & Darling St
578
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Wigram Lane
606.3
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Minogue Crescent cnr Charles St
3
No. 03A City of Sydney Open Space Strategy - Volume 1 - The Strategy(161006).doc
UPGRADED/ NEW FACILITY
UPGRADE PROGRAMM ED
© Stratcorp Consulting 2006
Appendices
Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
SUBURB
NAME
GLEBE
Sarah Pennington Reserve
GLEBE
MJ (Paddy) Dougherty Reserve Franklyn St Playground
GLEBE
GLEBE
Minogue Crescent Reserve
GLEBE
Ernest Pederson Reserve St James Park
GLEBE
GLEBE
Arthur (Paddy) Gray Reserve Dr H J Foley Rest Park
GLEBE
GLEBE BEACONSFIE LD
Jubilee Park Janet Bierne Reserve
BEACONSFIE LD ROSEBERY
Beaconsfiel d Park Crete Reserve
ROSEBERY
Bannerman Cres Reserve Kimberly Grove Reserve Turruwul Park Tote Park
ROSEBERY
ROSEBERY ZETLAND
No.
ADDRESS
Bayview Street
AREA (m2)
PLANNING DISTRICT
PROPOSED PLAYGROUND HIERARCHY LEVEL AND AGE GROUP FOCUS NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
700
NORTH WEST
1058.1
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
22
Mitchell Street cnr Wentworth St
2040
Franklyn Street
1096
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Minogue Crescent (btwn PCYC & 6-10 Minoque Crescent)
1,352
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Ferry Road
2,207
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Woolley Street
3,548
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 7-12 years
Hereford Street
3,573
NORTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Glebe Point Road cnr Bridge Road
5,122
NORTH WEST
LOCAL 0-12 years
Federal Road
41350
NORTH WEST
LOCAL 0-12 years
235
Victoria Street
1212
SOUTH EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
54
Queen Street
4804
SOUTH EAST
LOCAL 0-12 years
1A
Rosebery Avenue
3850
SOUTH EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
1A
Bannerman Crescent
3952
SOUTH EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 7-12 years
Kimberly Grove
6700
SOUTH EAST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
24A & 24B 3
140
115
Rothschild Avenue
21524
SOUTH EAST
DISTRICT 0-12 years
7
Grandstand Parade
2655
SOUTH EAST
LOCAL 0-12 years
No. 03A City of Sydney Open Space Strategy - Volume 1 - The Strategy(161006).doc
UPGRADED/ NEW FACILITY
UPGRADE PROGRAMM ED
© Stratcorp Consulting 2006
Appendices
Open Space & Recreation Needs Study City of Sydney
SUBURB
NAME
ZETLAND
Mary O’Brien Reserve Alexandria Park Reserve
ALEXANDRIA ALEXANDRIA
No.
8
PROPOSED PLAYGROUND HIERARCHY LEVEL AND AGE GROUP FOCUS NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
ADDRESS
AREA (m2)
PLANNING DISTRICT
Tilford Street
2782
SOUTH EAST
40469
SOUTH WEST
LOCAL 0-12 years
10
Buckland Street
4042
Mitchell Road cnr Buckland La
126
SOUTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
Lawrence Street cnr Harley Sts
234
SOUTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
ALEXANDRIA
Bowden Playground
103A
ALEXANDRIA
Renwick St Playground
4246
Renwick Street near Jennings St
424
SOUTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
ALEXANDRIA
Dibbs St Reserve
1525
Dibbs Street
436
SOUTH WEST
ALEXANDRIA
Jack Shuttleswo rth Reserve
51
Mitchell Road cnr Renwick Street
746
SOUTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 7-12 years NEIGHBOURHO OD 0-7 years
ALEXANDRIA
Daniel Dawson Playground Perry Park
Wyndham street
1,856
SOUTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 7-12 years
Maddox Street cnr Bourke Rd
12116
SOUTH WEST
NEIGHBOURHO OD 7-12 years
400000
SOUTH WEST
REGIONAL 0-12 years
ALEXANDRIA
ALEXANDRIA
Sydney Park
1B
Sydney Park Road
No. 03A City of Sydney Open Space Strategy - Volume 1 - The Strategy(161006).doc
UPGRADED/ NEW FACILITY
UPGRADE PROGRAMM ED
© Stratcorp Consulting 2006
Appendices
