• Adventure waterplay and slides
• 50 metre outdoor competition pool
• Indoor learn to swim pool
• 25 metre indoor lap pool
• A new building including entrance, amenities, change rooms and kiosk
• New grandstand
• Landscaping works to the open green space
• Gym space

Visit the Botany Aquatic Centre redevelopment page for more information.

• Concept design has been updated in response to feedback received from Councillors, community, and internal stakeholders
• New design addresses functionality and operational space within the kitchen, ensuring it is practical and attractive for future tenants. It provides accessible connecting paths within the park and to the newly upgraded play space
• The Planning Proposal (PP) to allow for a new café at Depena Reserve has been lodged
• The Development Application (DA) has also been lodged. As part of the DA process we will consult with neighbours.
• We will release a tender for construction if approved

In December 2024, the Council made the decision to incorporate the Community and Cultural Centre into the upcoming Rockdale Spine project, following substantial cost increases and additional works required due to the current condition of the building. This redevelopment initiative aims to transform the heart of Rockdale. Council recognises the significance of a cultural centre for the Bayside community and believes this integration offers an opportunity to deliver a purpose-built facility that will provide greater value and improved outcomes for the community.

The Rockdale Spine project is anticipated to be considered by Council in March 2025. In the meantime, the former Bryant Street church hall and chapel buildings will be demolished, and a new public park will be established on the site to help fulfill Council's commitment to providing much-needed open space for the community. 

• Demolition of the disused and dilapidated former chapel and church hall buildings to create a new community park, with a focus on passive use.

• New public amenities, including six toilets, an accessible toilet, a unisex family toilet and an open wash basin.
• Upgrades to the car park to increase parking capacity, improve accessibility and mitigate flood-related issues.
• Demolition of the existing amenities.  

Retaining Wall Restoration

The work to repair the sandstone wall will include:

• Temporary fencing near the south-eastern corner of Field 1 accessed from Gardiner Avenue including site compound area.
• The works site boundary will include the full extent of the retaining wall.
• Deconstruction of the collapsed segment of sandstone retaining wall with sandstone stockpiled for reuse.
• Excavation and construction of structural elements including piling, footings and drainage works.
• Reconstruction of approximately 20m of the sandstone wall that has collapsed, using original materials where practicable and suitable.
• Associated landscaping and make-good worksCleaning, adjustments and/or replacements of stormwater pipes, pits, pit lids and grates, as required.

The work to create two new concrete footpaths includes:

• Creating a temporary compound located near the Wolli Creek Rd entrance to the park if and as required.
• Concrete footpath construction on the eastern and western side of the main field to improved connectivity and accessibility.
• Temporary removal and reinstatement of park furniture, as required.
• Minor landscaping and maintenance, including turfing to disturbed areas, as required.

The above works are weather dependent and can change accordingly. Demolition work may cause potential noise. Parking along the street will also be temporarily impacted. Access to Gardiner Park may be impacted during works, with pedestrian diversions in place. We apologise for any inconvenience.

View the associated Review of Environmental Factors (REF) here.

• Construction of a small loop scooter path behind the playspace to enhance play value for
  young children
• Colourful path stencils and small signs

The playspace will require closure for one week (weather permitting) in late April/early May for the
construction work to proceed.

What’s involved: 

• Some resilient ground surface treatments for dog play activities – mulch and compacted
  granitic
• Sandstone blocks and logs for agility  
• A concrete path access path from the existing pathway
• Improved access to the seating and drinking fountain.

The dog park will be closed to the public during construction.

The nearest off-leash dog park is Civic Avenue Reserve, off Barton Street, Kogarah (2.2km distance approx).

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.