The Redfern Community Centre open space will be the centrepiece of major park upgrades planned for Sydney, celebrating the area’s rich Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage.
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The Redfern Community Centre open space will feature a larger playground catering to children of various ages, expanded lawn areas suitable for events and recreational activities, and new shaded barbecue and seating areas will be introduced.
The Community Centre will feature an “activated Redfern terrace” designed as a “living museum” to showcase local Aboriginal stories as part of the Eora Journey public domain vision.
Extensive community consultation has shaped the project scope, which prioritises creating greener, cooler and safer spaces that foster a stronger sense of community. Native trees and plants will be introduced, enhancing the park’s natural appeal and providing welcoming environments for residents to gather and socialise.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO emphasised the importance of creating inviting public spaces as Sydney continues to grow and develop.
Yellomundee Park and Hugo Street Reserve are also set for upgrades, spanning over 4,500 square metres of works across three parks in Sydney.
“The Block is so important for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and is an area where the local community has shaped its neighbourhood,” she said. “This is why we’ve really listened to what they want for the future of the area and, in particular, these local parks.”
Other enhancements across the three parks include low wall seating, additional bins, bubblers, and improved lighting, catering to the needs expressed by residents who share a strong sense of community in the area.
After the scope of the project receives approval from the Council, a team consisting of experts from various disciplines, including a specialist in Aboriginal culture, will collaborate with the local community members to design and develop the project.
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As major developments around Redfern and the upcoming Waterloo metro station reshape the neighbourhood, these park upgrades aim to preserve and celebrate the area’s rich cultural heritage whilst providing modern, inclusive spaces for recreation and community building.
Published 17-May-2024
