Bayside Council has accepted the tender from Whittaker Civil Pty Ltd to deliver the playspace and park renewal at Barwell Park, Bexley, with works set to enhance one of the area's most significant historic parks.
The concept design for the playspace and park improvements was exhibited through Have Your Say from 28 November 2025 to 19 January 2026. A Tree and Palm Management Plan was also exhibited to inform residents about the proposed tree works.
Barwell Park, one of Bayside's earliest public parks, was officially opened by the former Bexley Council on 3 November 1928 to provide open space and a dedicated playground for local residents. The park will celebrate its centenary in November 2028.
The proposed improvements have been carefully designed to respect the park's local heritage significance and align with Council's Conservation Management Plan.
The renewed playspace will include an expanded play area featuring a new double swing set, multi-play climbing and slide unit, spring rocker, new rubber softfall surfacing, a shade structure, additional seating and an accessible path connection from Wallace Street.
Additional park improvements will include new formal pathways in the lower section of the park inspired by the original 1928 circulation and garden layout, heritage-style seating, an accessible drinking fountain, sandstone edging and ornamental garden plantings that reflect the park's heritage character.
Existing garden beds along Bruce Street will be refurbished and complemented by new formal garden beds that evoke the original park design.
Weed tree species and trees with limited life expectancy will be removed and replaced with appropriate native trees, helping to reinforce the park's historic character and enhance its long-term environmental value.
The renewal forms part of Council's ongoing commitment to improving local parks and open spaces while protecting the area's cultural and environmental heritage.
Bayside Dr Mayor Christina Curry said
"Barwell Park holds a special place in our community's history, and this renewal will preserve its heritage character while providing improved recreation opportunities for local families," Mayor Christina Curry said.
"This project will ensure Barwell Park remains a welcoming and attractive community space for future generations. The upgraded playspace, improved accessibility and heritage-inspired landscaping will create a park that honours its past while meeting the needs of today's residents," Mayor Christina Curry said.
