This week we launched the Centennial Parklands Strategic Vision. This is a digital presentation that tells the story of how we see the evolution of Centennial Parklands over the next 25 years. We would love all who have an interest in the future of the Parklands to take a few moments to watch.
However, before we launch the presentation, let?s discuss the what, why, when, where and how of this vision.
What?is the strategic vision?
Back in 1888, some far sighted community members and politicians put their heads together and developed a plan to create ?the People?s Park? ? or, as we now know it, Centennial Park. The intention of their vision was to turn an area of rocky outcrop and swampland (which was at the time designated a Common) into a Victorian-era park, in the English tradition. The new public park was set aside for the health and recreation of the community.
Fast forward 125 years and today we have Centennial Parklands ? 360 hectares of public space set within one of the highest density population areas in Australia.?Author Patrick White later called Centennial Park ?the lungs of the city? ? and what an apt description. Just take a look?
Centennial Parklands incorporates Centennial Park, Moore Park and Queens Park
This strategic vision is not a pre-ordained implementation plan. It is a means of bringing together:
- a wide range of projects already proposed in various existing master plans and other plans of management, and
- a number of newly proposed projects that have been developed in response to internal and external changes in our environment.
What does this mean? Here?s a couple of examples to explain.
- Example of a new externally-generated project: The South East Light Rail project. A project being designed by Transport for NSW, obviously was not part of our long-term planning even a year or so ago. We now understand that this external project will mean opportunities for the Parklands, as well as some impacts. As a public transport project, there is little doubt that having a fast, efficient and regular service to the Moore Park entertainment and sporting precinct will be of great benefit to the community and to the Parklands. We need to accommodate the needs of this project, while looking after the needs of the Parklands existing landscape.
- Example of a new internally-generated project: The Children?s Learners Cycleway relocation project. The proposed relocation of the Children?s Learners Cycleway is a need identified by both the Parklands and many park user groups. We know it is not presently in the ideal location, from a safety and accessibility perspective. As such, this vision proposes a new location. Is this set in stone? No. But we need to start the conversation, and this vision provides that start.
As you watch the presentation it is key to remember that this is a living plan. It will change and evolve over time as we discuss projects and proposals with the community, or meet new opportunities and challenges from beyond.
Why?develop this vision?
Centennial Parklands is recognised widely as a world-class public parklands (we even won a Green Flag Award earlier this year!). However, there is a strong indication that we are heading towards the true meaning of the phrase ?being loved to death?. Our research estimates that around 30 million visits are made here every year ? and is continually growing. Our sports fields are near capacity, many of our assets and facilities are ageing and in need of repair or upgrade.
On top of this, new residential developments underway down the western border of the Parklands (e.g. Green Square) will bring around 40,000 new residents onto our border. Most of these new residents will be living in high rise apartments, they will need recreational and open space to play, exercise, recreate or use as a place to gather with family and friends.
As such, we not only need to cater for the needs of today, but to look towards the future. We need to ensure the Parklands can cope with this increasing demand and visitation. We need to make sure that, as the needs of the community evolve, we also evolve. We also need to ensure that as we evolve, we don?t lose the essential notion of what our parks are:
- Centennial Park ? a Victorian-era park designated for public recreation and social engagement, with high heritage and environmental value
- Moore Park ? a park of sport, recreation and entertainment
- Queens Park ? an open recreational and community sports venue.
This vision seeks to ensure the future sustainability of Centennial Parklands ? environmentally, socially and financially.
Centennial Park looking to Bondi Junction
When?is the timeframe for delivery of this vision?
This is a 25-year vision for the future of Centennial Parklands. We have funding from the NSW Government to begin implementing a number of projects (the projects are outlined on this webpage), as well as invest in the repair and upgrade of many of our services and facilities that have required attention for a number of years. In June 2013 the NSW Government announced a commitment of around $27 million in the delivery of these projects over the next four years.
E.S. Marks Athletics Field is one facility in need of upgrade to meet the future athletics and recreational needs of the community
Where?does this vision cover?
This vision covers all of Centennial Parklands ? Centennial Park, Moore Park and Queens Park. When we say this, some in the community?may not realise this also means Moore Park Golf, E.S. Marks Athletics Field, Fox Studios and the Entertainment Quarter. Yes, they are also part of Centennial Parklands!
What does this mean? Centennial Parklands is far more than grass and trees. The Parklands is a complex mix of built environment and green space. A mix of commercial space and open space. A mix of designed sporting precincts and unstructured recreational spaces. A place of trees, birds, animals and people. We need to manage these spaces to facilitate all of this interaction and co-existence.
Over 550,000 sports players ? from juniors to elite sporting teams ? use our fields and facilities
Some other facts you may not be aware of:
- We are the largest single-site sporting venue in NSW, providing over 120 sporting fields, courts and facilities.
- Over 550,000 registered sports users come here every year to use our fields and facilities.
- We are also at the heart of the film industry in NSW. Fox Studios, the Australian Film Television and Radio School, indoor cinemas, an outdoor cinema, and now the new home of the world?s largest short film festival ? Tropfest. To complete our credentials, we?re also a highly sought after film location for movies, television shows and commercials (The Great Gatsby, Wolverine and Australia were all recently filmed here).
- We are the home to one of the best equestrian centres in Australia, and feature a 3.8km horse track and equestrian grounds.
- We manage over 15,000 significant and historic trees, including the world?s largest collection of Port Jackson Figs (over 1,100!).
- More than 140 species of birds have been spotted here.
- We manage 26 hectares of waterways and ponds.
Throw into the mix cyclists, dog walkers, events, our education and volunteer programs, and the many other visitors who simply visit to relax or picnic and play with family and friends, and you have a very busy place.
Our vision covers all of this?and more!
?>> Like to know more about Centennial Parklands? See our infographic!
How?will the vision be implemented?
We cannot implement our vision for the future alone. We need your input, engagement and support. We need a diverse source of revenue and investment. We need to begin conversations about our future.
Many will wonder where the funds will come from. The answer is ?a mix of sources?, as we need a whole-of-community approach:
- For large capital projects we will seek Government funding (e.g. the Moore Park Toll House refurbishment), philanthropic support or private sector investment.
- The NSW Government has confirmed an initial capital funding support package to implement and complete a discrete number of projects (see list of projects here).
- We have funding raised from public donation to fund other projects (e.g. the Centennial Park Labyrinth), and will also be shortly seeking to fund through philanthropic or corporate sources a number of imaginative and creative projects (e.g. the Children?s Garden).
Watch the Centennial Parklands Strategic Vision
Please take a few moments to watch our digital presentation?
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If you feel you would like even more information after watching this presentation, please visit our Strategic Vision webpage. Further details on a number of projects is provided, as well as a means of providing feedback.
What is the next stage of engagement and opportunity for input?
We are about to start a key plank of the vision ? the creation of a master plan for Centennial Park. This will be the first time in its history that the Park will have a master plan. There will be a range of opportunities to get involved over coming months.
To ensure that you keep in touch and remain up-to-date with all the information relating to the consultation and implementation of this exciting vision:
Or visit the website regularly.
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