Barton Park Sports Precinct, Banksia, NSW
Barton Park Precinct presented MODE with an opportunity to redevelop a 19Ha area of dilapidated parkland, wetlands and creek edge into an activated sporting, leisure, and open space precinct to fulfil the current and future community needs within the LGA.
Client: Bayside Council
Location: Banksia, NSW
MODE Expertise: Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Graphic Design
Project Team: Tim Williams, Troy Matheson,
Completion Date: June 2024
Barton Park Sports Precinct, Banksia, NSW
The Barton Park Precinct in Banksia, NSW, is a $51.7 million redevelopment that reimagines a traditional sports facility into a vibrant, multi-functional recreational hub.
Led by MODE in partnership with Bayside Council and funded by the NSW Government, this project integrates advanced design elements in Landscape Architecture, Wayfinding, and Architecture to elevate the user experience for the community and visitors alike.
Barton Park is a significant community asset, embodying a blend of modern infrastructure and ecological responsibility. Spanning 12 hectares, the park features an array of state-of-the-art facilities that cater to sports and recreational enthusiasts of all ages.
The project includes a FIFA-standard natural turf soccer field, a 450-seat grandstand, tennis and multi-purpose courts, modern clubhouse buildings, and a 1,600m² adventure play space, providing an inclusive and active environment for all.
Improved road access and new pathways enhance connectivity throughout the precinct, encouraging smoother, safer access for families, sports enthusiasts, and casual visitors. These features support an activated open space precinct designed for sports, community events, and outdoor recreation.
Barton Park is an ecologically sensitive zone flanked by areas of saltmarsh, protected wetlands frequented by migratory bird species and coastal management zones along Muddy Creek.
As the entire precinct is a landfill site, the design process presented many challenges and constraints. These were tackled head on through strong coordination with specialist environmental and geotechnical consultants, ecologists, bushcare teams, councils planning team and our team of specialist consultants.
MODE worked closely with contamination consultants, civil and structural engineers to develop site-wide Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) and stormwater management strategies, specialised structure foundations and gas management systems to manage the complexities of working on this sensitive site
Barton Park prioritises environmental stewardship, with a focus on local biodiversity and sustainability. Collaborations with ecologists were crucial in preserving the habitat of the endangered Green and Golden Bell Frog and migratory bird species, ensuring that the park's development does not disrupt this delicate ecosystem.
Extensive tree and understorey planting throughout the park further emphasise the project’s commitment to local biodiversity, enhancing the sites natural beauty and contributing to the ecological health of the surrounding wetlands and waterways.
Beyond its environmental and recreational contributions, the park promotes inclusivity by accommodating users of all ages, mobilities and interests.
From morning walkers and cyclists to organised sports leagues and bird-watchers, Barton Park provides spaces and amenities that people are drawn to and which support a wide range of activities.
This inclusive approach helps establish the park as an active and social community asset that will benefit the local area for years to come.