Bayside Council has secured funding to naturalise the Spring Street drain and enhance the Rockdale wetlands corridor between Barton Park and Riverine Park, marking a significant step forward in the long-term restoration of the area.
The project builds on earlier community engagement undertaken as part of the Riverine Park Masterplan consultation and will deliver new wetlands, improved biodiversity and enhanced open space for the community. Construction is expected to take place over approximately three years.
Funding for the project includes an $8.65 million grant from the NSW Government's Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, supported by Council funding contributions of almost $5 million from the Infrastructure Levy Reserve, $2 million from the Stormwater Levy and $4 million from the New Contributions Plan. This combined investment will support delivery of the full scope of works.
Key works include the removal of around 700 metres of concrete lining, the restoration of the Spring Street Wetland's natural ecological function and the creation of three new wetlands between Riverine Park and Barton Park. These improvements will help reconnect the wetlands corridor and support healthier waterways and landscapes.
Once complete, the project will significantly increase habitat for the threatened Green and Golden Bell Frog and contribute to the protection and restoration of nationally listed Threatened Ecological Communities, including Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh and Coastal Swamp Oak Forest.
The project is currently progressing through the design and approvals phase, with detailed design expected to be completed by August 2026 and approvals finalised by December 2026. Procurement for construction is scheduled between January and March 2027, with a report to Council on procurement outcomes planned for April 2027.
Construction is anticipated to commence in May 2027 and continue through to June 2028, with Stage 1 of the naturalisation works expected to be completed by July 2028.
Council will continue to provide updates as the project progresses.
