Barton Park is officially open to the public after a $51.7 million upgrade has transformed an old sporting field into a state-of-the art sporting and recreational facility which will be enjoyed by Bayside’s growing population.
Located in Banksia, Barton Park is Bayside Council’s largest community sporting and recreational hub.
The community was able to see the upgrade for the first time when the park opens with a range of sporting and community activities.
The upgrade includes new natural turf sporting fields, a new state-of-the-art facility with a 450-seat spectator grandstand, two multi-use courts suitable for basketball, futsal and handball, four tennis courts, new amenities, improved road access and parking.
Council also worked closely with ecologists and environmentalists to ensure the ongoing safety and protection of the endangered Green and Golden Bell frogs which live in the area.
The project has been co-funded with Council providing 65% of the funding and the NSW Government funding the remaining 35%. The NSW Government funding has been provided through three programs including:
• NSW Government Accelerated Infrastructure Fund Round 3 – $10 million
• NSW Government Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund – $5 million
• NSW Government Public Spaces Legacy Program – $3 million
Mayor Saravinovski said:
“Council’s vision has always been to ensure Barton Park remains a place for everyone to enjoy,” Mayor Bill Saravinovski said.
“This incredible project has repurposed a former sporting facility into a community space and recreational hub suitable for all ages and levels of activity.
“From morning walks, cycling and organised sport, to bird watching and space for families to enjoy quality time together outdoors.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the NSW Government is pleased to commit $18 million to upgrade this important open space and recreational precinct.
“Barton Park’s transformation into a high-quality sporting hub will secure it as a centrepiece for the community for generations to come.
“Investment in quality open spaces is one of the most important ways to achieve thriving communities, and it’s exciting to see this upgrade ready for use,” Mr Scully said.
Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, said he was pleased to see the NSW Government and Bayside Council working together to deliver much needed state-of-the-art multi-sport facilities.
“Barton Park’s upgrade is a significant investment in the health of the local community,” Mr Kamper said.
“The various fields and facilities have been designed to encourage sporting participation and keep the community active and connected.”
Attending the event, Parliamentary Secretary for Planning and Public Spaces Stephen Bali said the new sporting hub will benefit thousands of surrounding residents for generations to come.
For more information on the Accelerated Infrastructure Fund (AIF) visit: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/plans-for-your-area/infrastructure-funding/accelerated-infrastructure-fund
For more information on the Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund visit https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/multi-sport-community-facility-fund
