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A small public space designed to provide greenery, seating, and recreational opportunities, offering a place for residents to relax, socialise, and enjoy some greenery without the need for land acquisition.
An example of a small open space on Clovelly and Carrington Road, Randwick
Image Credit: Randwick Council
Currently, the space is a cul-de-sac with a turning circle and six on-street parking spaces, along with a small landscaped area to prevent vehicle access to James Ruse Drive. The area between the cul-de-sac and James Ruse Drive is planted with native trees including Eucalypts, Casuarinas and Bottlebrush ranging from 8 to 20 metres tall.
Rosehill is becoming increasingly densely populated, with many residents living in high-density dwellings without access to backyards. During the COVID lockdown, the community's need for nearby open space became evident as people informally reclaimed part of Eleanor Street for activities and socialisation. Additionally, the amount of open space in this part of Rosehill falls below the benchmark set in the City of Parramatta Council Community Infrastructure Strategy.
Finding an alternative site may involve costly land acquisition, which would take a number of years. However, the road and landscaped area at the end of Eleanor Street are owned by Council and can be modified.
Currently, the closest parks for residents of Eleanor Street are Biplane Park (on the corner of Prospect Street and Arthur Street, opposite Rosehill Public School) and John Irving Park (on the end of Jordan Street, next to John Irving Community Garden). Both parks are approximately 500 metres from Eleanor Street. This distance exceeds the benchmark set by the City of Parramatta’s Community Infrastructure Strategy 2020, which recommends that high-density neighbourhoods have parks within 250 meters to ensure all residents have access to quality outdoor recreation opportunities.
Due to its small size, the proposed open space would be suitable for passive recreation, such as relaxing and socialising. It could include different types of seating and tables, and provision for quiet activities. The proposed open space is not suitable for traditional children’s playground equipment due to limited space and noise impacts on adjoining residents. The final selection of amenities will be guided by community feedback.
The proposed new open space will require the removal of six on-street parking spaces located at the end of Eleanor Street. This proposed open space is not expected to bring additional traffic to the area, as it is designed to serve the immediate neighbourhood.
Noise reduction measures, such as sound-proof walls, can be implemented if the project proceeds.
Image: Example of a noise reduction wall for the Taingiwirlta Ngangkirna Mukapaanthi - Pocket Park Photo credit: Gawler Council, South Australia
