Rolling out the green carpet for Green Square

Residents moving into one of the fastest growing precincts in Australia at Green Square are set to benefit from more open space for recreation and relaxation with plans for a new City of Sydney park taking shape.

Council has accepted a tender offer from Regal Innovations Pty Ltd for above-ground work to design and construct The Drying Green, an expansive 6,200 square metre park providing green open space and pedestrian connections to the Green Square town centre.

The Drying Green takes its name from the site’s industrial past. Wool washing was one of the first industries in Green Square and fleeces were spread across grass in the area to dry naturally.

The new park will feature grass lawns, a wetland water feature that collects and reuses stormwater, a picnic and barbecue area, terraced seating, a solar-powered public artwork, an amenities building with a green roof and sloping, landscaped surfaces.

“As the heart of the Green Square town centre, The Drying Green will become one of the most popular parks in Sydney,” Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.

“The restrictions put in place to stop the spread of Coronavirus have highlighted the importance of our open, green spaces. More people are using our parks than ever before.

“Locals will be able to kick a ball, relax on the green lawns and enjoy a picnic or barbecue with family and friends. This will have an incredibly positive impact on people’s health and wellbeing and build a strong sense of community.

“Our investment in community facilities, parks and open spaces will ensure Green Square lives up to its potential as a wonderful new urban village.”

The Drying Green will provide pedestrian access to the new library and plaza and other community facilities in the town centre. It is bound by Geddes Avenue, Paul Street, Portman Street and Zetland Avenue.

Significant work including piling and ground improvement has already taken place to prepare the site. Landscaping and building work will be completed by early 2022.

The City has committed more than $540 million to developing the Green Square town centre.

New community facilities include a creative centre, a childcare centre and a community shed. Construction on a state-of-the-art aquatic and recreation centre is also underway. More than 40 parks will emerge in Green Square, providing plenty of open space for residents, workers and visitors.

“With more than three quarters of our residents across the city living in apartments, our parks, playgrounds and open spaces are essentially ‘the backyard’ for many,” the Lord Mayor said.

“We’re firmly committed to creating and maintaining valuable open space and investing in parks and playgrounds for future generations.”

Green Square will accommodate close to 61,000 people by 2030, living in 30,500 new homes, and provide around 21,000 permanent jobs.

For media inquiries or images, contact Senior Media Advisors Angela Salt (0455 958 503) or Roxanne Macara (0438 554 640) or email [email protected]

For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, contact Jack Begbie Phone 0481 759 580 or email [email protected]