Bayside Council opens $52 million upgrade of Barton Park

Sydney’s Bayside Council has officially opened its Barton Park precinct following a $51.7 million upgrade which saw the historic sporting precinct - the one home of St George FC of the former National Soccer League - transformed as a contemporary recreational facility.

With the former 12,000 St George Stadium having been closed as of 2016 as a result of structural issues and demolished last year, the new facility includes new natural turf sporting fields, 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.

Located in Banksia, Barton Park is the Bayside Council’s largest community sporting and recreational hub.

Speaking at the official opening of the facilities, Bayside Mayor, Bill Saravinovski stated “Council’s vision has always been to ensure Barton Park remains a place for everyone to enjoy.

“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.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said the NSW Government was pleased to commit $18 million to upgrade the open space and recreational precinct, noting “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.”

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 was 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

In redeveloping the area, the Council also worked with ecologists and environmentalists to ensure the ongoing safety and protection of the endangered Green and Golden Bell frogs which live in the area.

Images: New facilities at Barton Park. Credit: Bayside Council.