• 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 proposed retaining wall remediation works include: 

•  Site establishment, such as temporary fencing near the south-eastern corner of Field 1 accessed from Gardiner Avenue. The works site boundary will include the full extent of the retaining wall. Works will be carried out in accordance with the Review of Environmental Factors (REF), including tree protection measures, which will be in place for the duration of the works.
• Deconstruction of the collapsed segment of sandstone retaining wall (20m length approximately, failing due to heavy rainfall), with sandstone stockpiled for reuse.
• Excavation works for new pier foundations, using non-destructive digging. 
• Construction/installation of key structural and drainage components. 
• Reinstatement of sandstone blockwork, including replacement where damage is apparent. 
• New replacement concrete kerbing, as required.
• Cleaning, adjustments and/or replacements of stormwater pipes, pits, pit lids and grates.
• New replacement fencing (or repair work), as required.
•  Temporary removal and reinstatement of park furniture, as required.
• Minor landscaping and maintenance to disturbed areas, as required.

Footpath Works

• Site establishment including temporary a compound located near the Wolli Creek Rd entrance to the park. Works will be carried out in accordance with the Review of Environmental Factors (REF). 
• New concrete path connections along the eastern side (2.6m wide) and western side (2.0m wide) of Field
• Relocation of portable sports goal storage from the western side to the north-eastern side of Field 1.
• 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.