Rhodes Peninsula Place Plan - Summary Document

Rhodes Peninsula Place Plan Summary Document

introduction

The Rhodes Peninsula Place Plan provides a holistic and integrated framework for action in the next 5 years as well as longer term strategic directions. The successful delivery of the Plan relies on the continued collaborative efforts between local residents, key stakeholders, government and non government agencies and the City of Canada Bay.

The Place Plan identifies and analyses the things that make Rhodes and Liberty Grove a great place to live, both now and in the future. Community members have spoken about the Peninsula as a:

• vibrant, interesting and dynamic community

• place with quality open space and a range of community facilities

• connected area with good access to jobs, services and infrastructure

• riverfront community that respects its unique setting.

In understanding what ‘place’ means for its residents, the development of this Plan has considered placemaking and community building leading practice. This research has been applied, grounded and adapted to the unique circumstances of the Rhodes Peninsula through a comprehensive process of community engagement involving a range of stakeholders including community members, businesses, local community organisations, State Government and the City of Canada Bay. The delivery of the Place Plan will require that same partnership approach and a collaborative effort among those key stakeholders.

Implementation and resourcing of the Place Plan will be subject to fluctuations in funding available and changing priorities of Council and other key stakeholders.

The Place Plan is as an ‘evolving’ document recognizing that priorities may change as the area continues to grow and develop. In response to this regular updates with key stakeholders will be held to ensure that the Place Plan priorities remain relevant and responsive.

Specific actions within the Place Plan are focussed on the Next 5 Years, beyond this timeframe Strategic Directions have been identified. This is in anticipation of continued significant changes in the Peninsula to the community, as we have seen over the last 5 year period.

Engagement methodology

More than 800 stakeholders participated in the consultation process for the Place Plan which focussed around the community values, vision, aspirations for the Peninsula. Consultation activities conducted included:

Rhodes Peninsula SurveyCommunity

A total of 245 residents, business people and visitors took part in this survey which was available online, in paper based format and was also conducted face-to-face. Community feedback was invited from Monday 13 February to Saturday 24 March 2012, with the closing date for the survey extended to coincide with Council’s Neighbour Day community event. The survey was made available in English, Chinese and Korean.

Focus group discussions

A series of focus group discussions were held with 52 local residents and business people to introduce the Place Plan and obtain community input. Discussions were held with:

• Businesses

• Chinese community members

• Korean community members

• Liberty Grove Executive Committee

• Rhodes Community Reference Group

• Strata Residents’ Representatives

• Rhodes Mums and Bubs Group, Rhodes Waterside Shopping Centre

Council’s Neighbour EventDay

This large scale community event involved a series of consultation activities focusing on key projects for the Peninsula. More than 500 people took part in Neighbour Day, and almost half of these (approximately 178 members of the community) participated in the consultation activities in the Community and Culture marquee. Community input to the Place Plan was sought through a range of interactive activities – with comments captured on feedback forms, post-it notes and flags. A further 30 people took part in a short faceto-face intercept survey to inform the Place Plan.

Stakeholder workshop

45 representatives of Local and State Government, business and the community sector were invited to participate in a Workshop held on Monday 28 May 2012. The purpose of the workshop was to explore opportunities to address community feedback obtained as part of the placemaking process to assist in the development of an Action Plan.

Research and analysisdemographic

Background research and analysis of current and trends based demographic date was undertaken to ensure the Plan reflects both the current and future population needs.

Professional knowledge and internal Council working groups

A multidisciplinary team provided knowledge, advice and input to the development of the Plan, including consideration of influences, constraints and opportunities for the Peninsula.

the peninsula in context

Rhodes Peninsula regional context

Rhodes and Liberty Grove, two suburbs of inner western Sydney, are situated 16 kilometres west of the Sydney CBD. Situated on the southern edge of the Parramatta River, Rhodes and Liberty Grove are located on a Peninsula between Homebush Bay (to the west) and Brays Bay (to the east). Concord Road, passing through the area, is a key north-south road connection and river crossing linking to the Ryde Local Government Area in the north and via Homebush Bay Drive to Strathfield, Bankstown and Auburn local government areas to the south.

The Rhodes Peninsula is also serviced by public transport with Rhodes Railway Station, on the City’s Northern Line, located in a central location on the Peninsula.

It is important to note that whilst the focus on actions within the Place Plan is on the Peninsula and Liberty Grove, that Rhodes is well connected to Sydney Olympic Park, providing access to major metropolitan sporting, recreation and entertainment venues. It is also located near significant regional open space including Bicentennial Park and Millennium Parklands and one of Sydney’s important natural environments – the Badu Mangrove area.

LEGEND

Peninsula Place Plan Area

Major Road

Northern Railway Line

Railway Station

The Rhodes Peninsula over time

In the 1970’s Rhodes consisted of two distinct areas – an industrial precinct to the west of the railway line and the southern section of the peninsula and a predominately residential area to the north-east. The eastern residential section of the Peninsula remains relatively unchanged, consisting of predominately detached residential dwellings. An industrial area to the Peninsula’s north east (Leeds Street Industrial Precinct) also remains.

Remediation and redevelopment of Rhodes West industrial areas have transformed the Peninsula. Industrial sites have been replaced with a mix of retail, commercial and residential developments. These include the Rhodes Waterside Shopping Centre and Rhodes Corporate Park to the south and the current redevelopment of Rhodes West which consists of high density, transport oriented, mixed use development. Redevelopment of the Rhodes Peninsula has and continues to include the introduction of open space and community assets with a focus on improving public access to the foreshore.

The past two decades have brought about significant physical and social changes to the Rhodes Peninsula.

our people

Demographic summary Summary of demographic change

The population of the Rhodes Peninsula (Rhodes and Liberty Grove) was 7,727 people in 2011 – this is double the 2006 population of 3,713. Since the 2006 Census the Rhodes Peninsula community has seen a:

• decrease in the proportion of people who speak only English at home

• 3.5% decrease in people over the age of 55 years and over

• 18% increase in people born overseas

• 11% increase in people born in China, and 18% increase in the number of people speaking Chinese at home

• 2.5% increase in people who speak Korean at home

• 10% increase in people who are renting bring the total of people renting to 51% in the Peninsula

• 6.7% decrease in car ownership

• 12.9% of people do not own a car

The Rhodes Peninsula Community over time Projected population

The Rhodes population is expected to double again to 15,000 by 2020. At this point 17% of the City of Canada Bay population will reside in Rhodes.1

Key population features

Other key population features based on the 2011 Census are:

• A comaritively younger age profile than the City of Canada Bay as a whole – with a median age of 30 years, compared to 37 for the City of Canada Bay and 36 for Sydney

• A similar proportion of couple families compared with City of Canada Bay households but a significantly larger proportion of group households (10.2% compared to 5.3% of Canada Bay and an average of 4.3 across Sydney)

• The most commonly spoken community languages other than English were Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese and Hindi

• Although the average number of bedrooms per dwelling in the Rhodes Peninsula (1.3) is significantly lower than the City of Canada Bay average (2.7); the average number of people per household is similar (2.6 in Rhodes Peninsula compared to 2.5 in the City of Canada Bay)

• A large working age population (high percentage of 25-54 year olds) with a relatively high income profile

• Relatively low percentage of people who own their home outright, and a very high percentage who are renting their home

• A comparable rate of people who are purchasing their home (to the City of Canada Bay and Sydney), but a much higher rate of households with large mortgage repayments (above 30% of household income)

• A very high rate of internet connectivity at 92.6%, compared to 82.7% for the City of Canada Bay and 79.9% for Sydney.

Overseas

in Korea

0-4 years 7.9% 7.2%

5-14 years 8.5% 6.0%

15-24 years 14.7% 19.2%

25-54 years 55.8% 57.7%

55-64 years 6.7% 5.6%

65+ years 6.3% 4.0%

Couple with children 44.6%

Couple without children 41.1%

Lone person 11.0%

Group household 3.6%

Tertiary

(Mandarin

home

1.9% 2.8%

6.3% 6.9%

10.1% 10.0%

11.4% 20.3%

47.4% 47.1%

10.6% 10.7%

14.1% 14.0%

0.8% 0.9%

6.6% 6.8%

13.0% 12.4%

13.8% 13.3%

44.1% 43.8%

10.2% 10.8%

12.3%

Higher

spoken

weekly

placemaking framework

Placemaking recognises that physical planning and urban design provide a strong foundation for the creation of a sense of place. However, the physical planning and design alone are insufficient to create a genuine sense of community. A placemaking approach considers social and community processes (for example community engagement, community development, community events, celebrations, and governance) in conjunction with land use planning, urban design (particularly of the public realm).

Key attributes of place

The placemaking model for Rhodes Peninsula incorporates five attributes of place:

• Social and cultural life

• Uses and activities

• Comfort and image

• Connectivity

• Voice and influence

Placemaking for the Rhodes Peninsula

Aspirations for Rhodes Peninsula

Adapted from ‘Project for public spaces’ 2003 to incorporate an additional element of place.

Social and cultural life

The place offers opportunities for people to meet one another and is friendly and welcoming to people with diverse characteristics, as well as visitors. It has a vibrant street life, strong local identity, active social networks.

Uses and activities

People have a reason to come to the place because they are able to engage in a range of activities, and like returning for this reason. There are places to go and things to do during the day and night, beyond home and work. The place provides opportunities for fun, active and health living but is also affordable.

Connectivity

The place is connected to its surroundings, physically, visually, socially and via technology – to jobs, education, health and leisure. Public places are easy to get to and to pass through. Street edges are interesting and safe, rather than blank or empty. Accessible places have a high parking turnover and are convenient to public transport, with a range of transport options. There are good walking and cycling connections. Roads, pedestrian and cycle paths take people where they want to go. Spaces function well for people with special needs.

Comfort and image

Spaces feel comfortable and are well presented – for instance, they feel safe, secure, clean and tidy. There are places to sit outdoors– and people have choices about whether to sit in the sun or shade. Streetscapes are active and the place is easy to walk around. The area makes a good first impression and has a good overall feel to it. It’s attractive, modern, and well maintained. Local heritage is reflected in the public domain.

Key attributes of place

Voice and influence

The place provides opportunities for all members of the community to find out useful information, to participate in community life, and to be heard – alongside a range of other local voices. All members of the community have an opportunity to have their say on local issues.

community aspirations

Three overarching themes emerged from the community engagement process. These are:

• Need for infrastructure provision to keep up with population growth and demand

• Importance of a well maintained public domain

• Desire for Rhodes Peninsula to be a more active and vibrant place.

Infrastructure that keeps up with demand

A key theme raised was the need for infrastructure to accompany development and population growth. Numerous participants identified current infrastructure needs, particularly focusing on public transport services, traffic, parking and schools. Many expressed concern about the capacity of existing infrastructure to meet the increased demand as the residential population of Rhodes Peninsula continues to grow. Key issues focused on:

• Public transport connections - Council to continue lobbying for improved public transport services, particularly during peak times

• Limited road access to and from Rhodes Peninsula, the area is designed for access via public transport

• Parking for residents and their visitors - Council will continue to review parking demands and alter times as appropriate

• Current need for additional schools (with Concord West Public School already at capacity). Council has successfully lobbied for a new primary school and will continue to lobby for additional state infrastructure for the greater area.

“ There is good train access, but more trains and train lines are needed to other places. Hundreds of people use the train. ”

Resident of Rhodes

The public domain needs to be kept clean and well maintained

The need for Council, other local stakeholders (including the shopping centre and other local businesses) and the community to work together to ensure the public domain within the Peninsula is clean, tidy and well maintained. Rhodes Peninsula was described as having a mix of very well maintained and poorly maintained areas.

Key issues focused on:

• Rubbish bins provided as parks and public spaces throughout the Peninsula are opened

• Council provides increased street maintenance, grass cutting and weed removal services as the area grows

• More proactive approach to abandoned shopping trolleys (involving shopping centre and retailers)

• Graffiti and abandoned cars are promptly removed

• More community education programs about littering, illegal dumping, responsible use of trolleys and dog ownership are provided

• Dog tidy facilities in parks and public spaces are provided.

Rhodes Peninsula as a more active and vibrant place

The desire for Rhodes Peninsula to be a more active and vibrant place was highlighted. Some described it as being exciting and youthful. However many expressed a desire for a greater level of amenity and liveliness within the Peninsula desiring more places to meet, shop, eat and socialise. Several commented on the current limited scope for going out at night, and the need for more restaurants, bars and ‘buzz’.

Key issues focussed on:

• Important role of the Community Precinct as a community hub – a place for people to meet and to get involved in activities

a preference for no more than 5 buildings of 25 storeys, while others were not in favour of new development over 8 storeys in height. Several discussed the importance of ‘getting community right at the ground level’ – ensuring multiple opportunities for active use of the public domain, with less concern about the height of new buildings as long as there are things to do and the place has a ‘good vibe’. Several had previously lived in cities including Shanghai and Hong Kong which are characterised by dense multi storey precincts, coupled with vibrant street life

“ I downsized from my home in Haberfield. I’m disappointed about the change in interests –maintaining the amenity and look of the area. It’s important to make sure it is well maintained and kept attractive. ”

Resident of Rhodes

• Need for facilities and spaces such as outdoor fitness equipment, dog park / off leash areas. coffee cart, kiosk, gathering spots with shade and seating to assist in bringing people out of their homes to make the most use of the Peninsula

• Important role of streetscapes in enabling activity at the ground level. Participants had mixed views on the height of new buildings within Rhodes Peninsula. Some expressed

• Opportunity to harness the large and growing size of the local population to create fun and excitement – through activated spaces (eg markets, performances, children’s water play), a wider variety of facilities and services (shopping, car share, shuttle bus), and a program of engaging events and activities (festivals, classes, fitness, talks, social activities and clubs).

“ Activity is made possible with crowds. Bigger populations present an opportunity for a range of activities and a more vibrant Rhodes Peninsula. I’m excited about it! ”

Resident of Liberty Grove

planning for the future

The Place Plan sets out actions and strategic directions for the Peninsula overall as well as specific locations based within the Peninsula. The specific locations have been highlighted as they will be the focus of physical works over the coming 5 years and as such offer an opportunity to maximise the assets to deliver and strengthen the development of local identity, sense of place and deliver the required social infrastructure to a growing community. Specific locations include the Community Precinct, town square, central park as well as general public domain, open space and works associated with the Foreshore.

The Plan includes:

•Community aspirations reflecting the key issues and themes that emerged from the community engagement process

•Actions for the next 5 years

•Strategic directions

•Relevant policies,plans and other influences

•Identified partners and stakeholders

Given the projected rapid growth and changes anticipated for the Rhodes Peninsula, it is difficult to be too specific about actions beyond the next 5 years. However, it is also important to ensure planning of, and response to, the continued development of the Peninsula as a place and community.

Delivery of actions will be contingent on funding and the timing of developments linked to Voluntary Planning Agreement funds and Council’s budget processes.

The Station Precinct (Precinct D left out of the original master planning process) and the proposed Homebush Bay Bridge are major development projects currently in the planning stages and subject to finalisation. The information gathered as part of the Place Plan will be used to inform more detailed action once the final outcome of the planning processes is known. At that time the Place Plan will be updated to incorporate research and community feedback from the consultations.

POLICIES, PLANS AND STRATEGIES

• FuturesPlan20

• City of Canada Bay Local Environmental Plan

• Sydney Harbour Foreshore State Regional Environmental Plan

• State Regional Environmental Plan 29 and Rhodes WestMaster Plan

• Rhodes Peninsula Arts Plan

• Rhodes Peninsula Plan of Management and Masterplan

• Community Facilities Resourcing Strategy

• Community Harmony Strategy

• Cultural Plan

• Let’s Play: Playground Strategy

• Community Safety and Crime Prevention Plan

• Graffiti Vandalism Management Strategy

• Positive Ageing Strategy

• Child and Family Needs Strategy

• Climate Change Adaptation Plan

• Sustainability policies (eg, Event Management and Procurement)

• Brays Bay Foreshore Park Management Action Plan (1996)

• Riverside: A cultural strategy for the Parramatta River Foreshore

• Station Precinct Retail Viability Study

• On Street Dining Policy

OTHER INFLUENCES

• Silting of the Bay

• Commercial interests on the sites

• Connectivity between the railway station and Concord Hospital

• Homebush Bay Bridge proposal

• Station Precinct proposal

• Northern Sydney Freight corridor

• Previous uses and memorial nature of the sites including Aboriginal and cultural heritage

• Ongoing monitoring of Environmental Management Plans and any future implications for projects

A PLACE THAT IS:

Accessible, clean and modern

planning for the future PENINSULA-WIDE ACTIONS our vision

Family oriented, safe, affordable

Diverse with a community feel

Convenient and accessible to shopping, jobs, amenities

A PLACE THAT HAS:

u A vibrant community atmosphere

u Character and identity closely linked to water side setting

u Things to do locally at night – restaurants, cafes, small bars, etc

u Frequent and better coordinated public transport

Improved road access – only two access points in and out of Peninsula and parking provision for residents

Social and Cultural Life

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Develop a program of Peninsula wide space activation and events

B Develop diversity and social inclusion programs

C Map and provide information about existing community connections and services including facilities and activities available at Sydney Olympic Park

D Share information, build capacity, exchange ideas about the projects in the Peninsula

E Implement the Public Art Strategy for the Peninsula

F Support and encourage neighbourhood groups

Uses and Activities

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Provide information about local child care options

B Identify future childcare needs

C Support the development of playgroups in Rhodes and Liberty Grove

D Work with Sydney Olympic park to consider spaces for children, tweens, and teens including possible options in Sydney Olympic Park Authority and Wentworth Point

E Deliver new public open space at: - ‘Town Square’ - ‘central park’ - the park at the northern end between Walker street and Shoreline Drive

F Work in partnership with the NSW Department of Education and Communities to establish a new school for the greater area with a community focus

G Support and encourage health programs and information

PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS

• Residents and representative groups

• Businesses

• Rhodes Waterside Shopping Centre

• Community service providers

• Liberty Grove Association

• Department of Education

• Transport for NSW

• NSW Department of Health

• NSW Department of Housing

• NSW Department of Education and Communities

• Ageing, Disability and Homecare (part of NSW Department of Family and Community Services)

• Department of Immigration and Citizenship

• NSW Police Local Area Command

• Roads and Maritime Services

• Strata and building managers

• Place committee

• Developers

H Undertake a community awareness campaign of environmental efficiencies utilised in the redevelopment of the Rhodes Peninsula

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Investigate and advocate for the services and facilities required to support the Rhodes Peninsula community

B Advocate for a high school to service the needs of the growing population

Comfort and Image

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Establish a Tidy Town style program to reduce graffiti / dumped rubbish and build pride and care in the area

B Improve the management of shopping trolleys

C Review waste collection and minimisation strategies

D Undertake community education regarding dog ownership, waste, environmental sustainability and being a ‘good neighbour’

E Improve signage and wayfinding throughout the Peninsula as works programs are implemented.

F Investigate opportunities for the Police Local Area Command to work with the community to support a sense of safety and place

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Continued focus on community education, service enhancement and working in partnership to address amenity issues

B Advocate to State Government for funds for community health and care services

Connectivity

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Develop a Place App to provide up to date information (eg transport, locations of public toilets, parks, business and tourism information)

B Review capacity and demand issues at Rhodes Station and proactively advocate for government investment in public transport for the Rhodes Peninsula

C Continue to improve bicycle and pedestrian links within the Peninsula

D Work in partnership with Transport for NSW regarding traffic management and access to the Peninsula

E Review parking controls in Rhodes and investigate options for supporting transport orientation changes for residents

F Complete traffic and road safety projects (see projects map) including; - Outlon Ave intersection

- Blaxland and Leeds St intersection

- Walker St footpath and parking

- Rider Blvd and Mary St intersection

- Blaxland Rd pedestrian crossing

- Cycleway connections

- Pavement renewal in Averill St, Cavell Ave, Leeds St and Blaxland Rd

- Half road renewal in Gauthorpe St, Marquet St, Walker St and Shoreline Dr

G Promote and encourage cycling and increased public transport use to and from work

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Advocate for upgrades to railway station and surrounds to ensure they meet resident and worker needs

B Improve access to Concord Hospital and Concord West School from Rhodes and Liberty Grove

C Partner with Parramatta City Council to advocate for light rail

D Co ordinate with government to ensure an integrated approach to future plans for; rail line extensions/ northern Sydney freight corridor and proposed Homebush Bay Bridge

Voice and Influence

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Promote an inclusive approach to consultation, planning, design and management of place (including children, young people, people with disability, residents from non-English speaking backgrounds)

B Launch the Rhodes website including history of the area and key community information

C Provide translated materials in the two key community languages

D Involve key resident groups to support planning, implementation and management of community aspirations

E Develop, distribute and facilitate sharing of community, history, events and activity information including a Welcome Pack for new residents, online and paper based information, Council and community services presence in the Peninsula

F Establish an action oriented Place Committee focused on implementation of the Plan

G Establish options for neighbourhood watch and communication with local authorities including police local area command and Council

H Promote local volunteering opportunities

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Consult and involve stakeholders regarding an integrated approach to future development of eastern side of Rhodes Peninsula

planning for the future COMMUNITY PRECINCT

A PLACE THAT IS:

u A community heart and hub – a place for people to meet and to get involved in activities

u Used to celebrate community and cultural events our vision

A PLACE THAT HAS:

THE COMMUNITY PRECINCT WILL BE THE MOST IMPORTANT FOCUS for community building in Rhodes and offers significant opportunities for art that develops engagement and cultural identity. The development of the community precinct at the western edge of the water opposite Gauthorpe Street provides the locale with a multi-purpose centre in a prominent place. At this stage the project is in early planning stages and is developing design responses to the new population, its needs and the potential landing of the proposed Homebush Bay Bridge nearby. Once the proposed bridge is built, it is likely that the residents from Wentworth Point will utilise the new Community Precinct as well as the local Rhodes residents.

THE COMMUNITY PRECINCT HAS AN IMPORTANT ROLE AS A COMMUNITY HUB – a place for people to meet, gather and get involved in a range of activities. Residents saw it as an opportunity to combine some of the key things that people in the Peninsula like –walking, the waterside experience, places for people to meet and socialise, cafes and restaurants.

THE COMMUNITY PRECINCT IS SCHEDULED TO BE COMPLETED BY 2016.

Social and Cultural Life

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Support and promote a wide range of activities for all members of the community

B Share information, build capacity, exchanged ideas about the Place

C Facilitate the provision of youth and health programs

D Integrate Public Art and cultural heritage in the Precinct

E Support and encourage neighbourhood groups

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A A multipurpose community space that is active, accessible, environmentally responsive and provides a range of affordable activities for a diverse range of residents

Uses and Activities

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Establish a temporary community space on the site whilst the permanent Community Precinct is under construction

B Provide a range of facilities in the Community Precinct including public toilets, play space, bbqs, shade, wi-fi, lighting, public art, group and individual seating and eating spaces

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A The Community Precinct addresses the changing needs of the Rhodes community

Comfort and Image

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Consider spaces for children and young people

B Consider opportunities for interactive learning centres and free Wi-Fi for residents in public spaces

C Promote quality design and best practise through Council leadership in the development of a multipurpose precinct

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Community meeting places and gathering places where community members are welcome and can participate in structured, informal and unstructured activities and programs

Connectivity

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Explore opportunities to facilitate bike use

B Design the Community Precinct to maximise its location adjacent to a major walking route and potential future landing of the proposed Homebush Bay Bridge

C Apply Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles in the Precinct (including appropriate lighting) to ensure safety and activation both during the day and night

u Indoor and outdoor space

u Meeting, activity, exhibition and function space

u Compatible commercial space – restaurant or cafe

u Technology and access to library resources

u Both passive and active recreation uses

u Space for just relaxing

u Good design to make the most of waterfront location

u Good quality amenities in parks and open space (shade, seating, bbqs, lighting, public art, play spaces etc) to bring people out of their homes

Voice and Influence

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Engage with Peninsula residents in the design, development and management of the Community Precinct

B Utilise the Precinct as a location for community engagement and information exchange

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A The Community Precinct as a focal point for community interaction, connection and information exchange

“ I’d like to see a community heart including a place for retirees to meet. ”

Resident of Rhodes

“ A community centre would be good with lots of activities for young people and seniors – such as playgroups, pilates, yoga, tai chi. Seniors activities could be during the day, with other activities in the evenings. ”

Participant in Korean community focus group

PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS

• Residents and representative groups

• Businesses

• Community service providers

• NSW Police Local Area Command

• Homebush Bay Bridge proponents

• NSW Health

• Department of Immigration and Citizenship

• NSW Department of Family and Community Services

• Transport for NSW

• Roads and Maritime Services

• Sydney Olympic Park Authority

• Auburn Council

• Developers

• Place committee

planning for the future PUBLIC DOMAIN, OPEN SPACE AND THE FORESHORE

PLANNING AND DELIVERY OF THE PUBLIC DOMAIN, OPEN SPACE AND FORESHORE AREAS will focus on encouraging connectivity and promoting a sense of community through the integration of public art. Planning has included the development of an Open Space Plan of Management and Masterplan, Rhodes Peninsula Arts Plan and a variety of public domain, open space and foreshore improvements.

THE CIRCULATION OF PEOPLE THROUGHOUT THE PENINSULA AND AROUND THE FORESHORE is an important challenge facing the Open Space Masterplan. The amenity of the local community as well as cyclists from outside is assured when coherent paths are built, sustained and linked.

THE STREETSCAPE EMERGES IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT and the Public Art provides a vibrant presence and language for this public arena. The entrances for the Peninsula are thresholds for public art. The underpass approached from Leeds Street captures motorists in a squeeze point before they turn into Walker St and the current advertising hoardings indicate the marketing exposure for this threshold.

THE VERY NATURE OF RHODES PENINSULA provides an excellent amenity to the water and its shorelines. Although the collective open spaces address these edges, the emergent mangrove colonies and the expanding building footprints distinctly separate the interface between land and water. As you move south west the mangrove forest impedes sightlines to the water so the stark views across Homebush Bay are welcome. This edge experience is both powerful

Social and Cultural Life

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Support retail and commercial activation of the public domain to encourage social connection

B Integrate Public Art and cultural heritage in to the public domain

Uses and Activities

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Implement the recommendations from the Rhodes Peninsula open space Plan of Management and Masterplan

B Ensure public domain design incorporates the principals of accessibility, safety, environmental sustainability and connectivity

C Identify a suitable location for a dog park/s or off leash area/s

A PLACE THAT IS:

Clean, safe and well maintained public domain

Accessible for all

A PLACE THAT HAS:

our vision

u An outdoor lifestyle as a key to sense of community

u Coordinated waste management, street maintenance, grass cutting, etc

u More bins and dog tidy facilities

u Opportunities for fun and excitement through activated spaces

u Good quality amenities in parks and open spaces (shade, seating, fitness equipment, lighting, etc) to bring people out of their homes

u Quality streetscape design with activity at the ground level – ‘getting community right at the ground level’

u Community education about littering, dumping, shopping trolleys, responsible dog ownership

u Sufficient public toilet facilities

u Effective way finding – signage, pathways, trails

u Public art integrated into the public domain and foreshore

in scale and evocative depending upon the season and wind. The edge pathway which stretches along the western foreshore is well utilised by cyclists, joggers and walkers and provides an opportunity to both public domain works as well as space activation initiatives.

JOHN WHITTON BRIDGE IS THE MAIN RAIL LINK ACROSS THE PARRAMATTA RIVER from Rhodes and Homebush Bay to Ryde and northern Sydney. The bridge was constructed from 1952 to 1980 and has a heritage listing. The area under the bridge forms a pedestrian link from Mill Park and the apartments on Walker Street to the boat ramp and east Rhodes area. It has been a difficult area to maintain and subject to some vandalism. In 2011 City of Canada Bay engaged Oculus Landscape Architects to develop a landscape solution to the site.

WORKS ARE PLANNED THAT WILL CREATE A UNIQUE PLACE through a high quality open space that links between the east and west side of Rhodes. The space will enhance the foreshore walk by connecting Mill Park to the eastern side of Rhodes and the shared path that crosses the Meadowbank Bridge. The John Whitton Bridge project will be completed by 2014.

Comfort and Image

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Review bin provision, location and needs throughout the Rhodes Peninsula and communicate information to the community

B Investigate opportunities for maximising resource recovery and recycling in public space

C Implement the use of existing mobile/GPS applications for reporting of maintenance and asset management issues (internal Council and external stakeholder reporting)

D Improve signage and wayfinding throughout the Peninsula

PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS

• Place Committee

• Residents and representative groups

• Businesses

• Rhodes Waterside Shopping Centre

• NSW Police Local Area Command

• Sydney Olympic Park Authority

• Auburn Council

• Roads and Maritime Services

• Developers

• City of Ryde Council

• Transport for NSW

E Investigate provision of free Wi-Fi in open space areas

F Consider crime prevention through environmental design principles in the design and assessment of these spaces including encouraging passive surveillance by the design of residential and business premises

G Lobby for installation of sound barriers (where appropriate) along the railway line by Railcorp as part of the National Freight line upgrade

H Ensure public domain design incorporates the principles of accessibility, safety, environmental sustainability and connectivity

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Waste management and collection of public bins in Rhodes are response to community needs

B Advocate for a police presence as needed in Rhodes due to the increasing population

Connectivity

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Upgrade the boat ramp and car park at John Whitton Bridge

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A A coordinated approach to the management of the public domain through master planning and similar processes

B Lighting is included in key public domain locations to ensure safety and activation both during the day and night, especially between transport nodes and homes

Voice and Influence

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Consult with key stakeholders on planning and implementation of works

Monde

our vision

planning for the future PRIVATE AND COMMERCIAL SPACE (i.e. STRATA BUILDINGS, BUSINESS PARK, SHOPPING CENTRE)

THIS SECTION RELATES TO PRIVATE SPACE WITHIN THE PENINSULA. The Rhodes Peninsula includes around 1,200 businesses, from large multinationals to small home based businesses. Rhodes Waterside Shopping Centre is a key destination for residents, workers and visitors. Rhodes Corporate park is a key employment precinct including large organisations such as Australand, Hewlett Packard, Alcatel Lucent, Unisys and Nestle. Residental and private spaces include complexs developed by major developers such as Meriton, Mirvac, Billbergia, Renewing Homebush Bay and Walker Corporation.

Social and Cultural Life

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Support pop-up activation of the space supporting retail and other commercial services

Uses and Activities

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Support the business park to encourage the provision of opportunities for social interaction and connection to the wider Peninsula community

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Planning of amenities, facilities and services considers the working population of Rhodes

Comfort and Image

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Apply crime prevention through environmental design principles to private and commercial spaces to encourage passive surveillance

B Review waste collection and minimisation strategies

C Consider (and where possible) incorporate recommendations from the Retail Viability Study

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Support economic development in the Rhodes Peninsula and work in partnership with local business and others to address local issues

B Support for local and home based business, business engagement and involvement in space activation, investment program

Connectivity

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Encourage inclusion of signage, secure bike storage/racks in private and commercial space

B Include lighting in strata complexes to promote safety, energy efficiency and activation at night

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Involve local businesses and strata managers in planning for key issues such as sustainable transport, including car share opportunities

A PLACE THAT IS:

u Accessible and has a shared village atmosphere

A PLACE THAT HAS:

u Retail opportunities spread out across the Peninsula

u More and better distributed restaurants and cafes

u Things to do locally at night – restaurants, cafes, small bars, etc

u Other services and a Chinese supermarket

Voice and Influence

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Support the establishment of a chamber of commerce to support Peninsula based businesses

B Conduct an annual business forum to exchange information and explore opportunities for partnership projects

C Highlight and encourage investment and opportunities for business in the Peninsula

Rhodes shopping centre and the café at the northern end of Rhodes are okay, but there is nothing to bind these areas together. There are no shops or cafes in between. ”

Business person

At the moment there is no good reason to hang around in Rhodes after 5pm, but Rhodes has got lots of potential... Encourage after hour’s vibrancy. ” Business person

PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS

• Residents and representative groups

• Business

• Place Committee

• Rhodes Waterside Shopping Centre

• Strata and building managers

• Developers

“

“

planning for the future ‘central park’

A PLACE THAT IS:

u Clean, safe and well maintained

u Accessible for all

THE NEW ‘central park’ DEVELOPMENT links Walker Street in the east to Shoreline Drive to the west and is bordered by Gauthorpe Street to the south. In 2011 the developer engaged Oculus to design a landscape plan for the park. ‘central park’ occupies a number of levels from Walker Street to Shoreline Drive and anticipates different experiences from informal more active play to intimate meeting places as you descend or climb. With an impressive vista across the Rhodes shore to the Parramatta River the park evokes the sightlines that may have been part of the daily life of the Wangal people as they surveyed their hunting and fishing grounds from the ridgeline. Now the focus for a new residential population it will be a pleasant and popular place to meet and place for residents of adjacent apartments.

‘central park’ IS THE LARGEST OPEN SPACE PLANNED FOR RHODES and will cater to a broad user group, providing opportunities for both active and passive recreation through three different spaces. The park will deliver a large, centrally located public open space with strong connections to the proposed new Town Square, the foreshore, and the Community Precinct. The park is due to be delivered by 2015.

Social and Cultural Life

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Facilitate opportunities for park activation and activities to be provided

B Integrate public art into the park and public domain to reflect the indigenous, local culture and heritage of the site. Opportunities include the wall linking the upper and lower levels of the park; the children’s play ground and the undercroft in the building / entry point to the park adjacent to Walker Street

C Consult with the local community on the establishment of a community garden

Uses and Activities

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Consider the provision of an off leash area STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Create public spaces that encourage community use and attract people out of their homes

Comfort and Image

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Provide appropriate facilities in the park including access to public toilets, play space, bbqs, lighting, public art, dog facilities, group and individual seating and eating spaces

B Include recycling facilities in the design of the park

C Develop an asset management plan at the time the park is developed

Connectivity

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

our vision

A PLACE THAT HAS:

u Good quality amenities for example (shade, group seating, bbqs, lighting, public art, play spaces etc to bring people out of their homes

u Opportunities for fun and excitement through activated spaces

u Bins and dog tidy facilities

u Public toilet facilities

u Effective way finding – signage, pathways, trails and use of public art

Voice and Influence

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Lighting is included in the park to ensure safety and activation

B Provide best practice in accessibility in the park

C Consider the interaction between pedestrians and cyclists in the design

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Renewal and adaptability of the park as community needs change to be guided by the Rhodes Peninsula Plan of Management

A Actively involve children in the design of the playspace

B Establish shared sense of ownership by involving stakeholders in the planning, development and management of the park

C Identify and promote volunteering opportunities in the park

PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS

• Residents and representative groups

• Businesses

• Place Committee

• Community service providers

• Transport for NSW

• NSW Police Local Area Command

• Roads and Maritime Services

• Strata and building managers

• Developers – Billbergia and Renewing Homebush Bay

planning for the future TOWN SQUARE

THE SQUARE FOR RHODES PENINSULA is part of Mirvac’s building development at the termination of Walker Street and Mary Street. The inclusion of public art into the places and space where people gather and interact adds a valuable cultural dimension to Rhodes and explores the notion of a civic experience and meeting place.

THE NEW TOWN SQUARE will be located adjacent to Rhodes Station which provides a space to be enjoyed by the community as a meeting place and civic space. It will act as a key entry and exit point to the station and other public transport and contribute to the first impression of Rhodes to people arriving by public transport. This space also acts as a link to the commercial precincts in Rider Boulevard and Rhodes Corporate Park.

Social and Cultural Life

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Support pop-up activation of the Town Square

B Deliver public art to provide an iconic art element to create a destination in partnership with Mirvac

C Encourage the incorporation of public art within the landscaping elements such as seating and shade

D Maximise the opportunities for activation of the space through encouraging on-street dining

Uses and Activities

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Explore innovative means through which to provide community information, e.g. using new technologies

Comfort and Image

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A PLACE THAT IS:

The community heart – a place for people to meet

Activated at the street level with places to sit, meet, people watch, eat lunch

Accessible and shared village atmosphere

our vision

A PLACE THAT HAS:

Adequate amenities including seating, shade, rubbish bins

Public art and community information provided

A place for people to gather in the evening with open space, restaurants and wine bars

Good quality amenities … to bring people out of their homes

A Include facilities such as shade, lighting, seating and eating spaces

B Incorporate crime prevention through environmental design principles in the design of the town square

Connectivity

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Ensure clear connectivity with pedestrian and cycleways in the Town Square

B Consider bike storage facilities in the vicinity

Voice and Influence

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Actively engage community members and key stakeholders in the management of the space

PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS

• Residents and representative groups

• Businesses

• Place Committee

• Community service providers

• Transport for NSW

• NSW Police Local Area Command

• Roads and Maritime Services

• Strata and building managers

• Developer - Mirvac

planning for the future

BRAYS BAY RESERVE

BRAYS BAY RESERVE is located on Concord Road, approximately 100m from Rhodes Railway Station. The site sits between McIlwaine Park and Rhodes Park, which follow the western shore of Brays Bay. The northern point of the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway is in Brays Bay Reserve and travels all the way to the Memorial Rose Garden located on Hospital Road, Concord.

THE SITE OF BRAYS BAY RESERVE has a long industrial history. This is evident in the physical form of the water’s edge, which is as a result of land reclamation, as well as the presence of the Ship Building Memorial. The reserve also contains a restaurant and car park accessible from Concord Road.

THE KOKODA TRACK MEMORIAL WALKWAY is a permanent living memorial to the PapuaNew Guinea campaign of July 1942 – January 1943, in which Australian soldiers withstood and repelled the Japanese advance at considerable cost to human life and health. The Track has been designed to reflect the landform and vegetation cover of the real Kokoda Track to the extent that it is possible and practical. Information stations are located along the track that outlines significant events and people who served along the Track.

Social and Cultural Life

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Review landscaping design to maximise accessibility within the Reserve

B Upgrade and repair existing opportunities to extend the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway to continue historic narratives and connect with the emerging community in the western precinct of Rhodes Peninsula as well as the reinvigoration of the existing sculpture by integrating it more in the landscape or providing a complementary work on the water’s edge may attract people to investigate the important ship-building heritage of the site and lead park-users to the foreshore as part of the experience

Uses and Activities

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Consider in the redevelopment of the area; play space, shade, lighting, public art, seating and eating spaces, public toilets, community and historic information

our vision

THE SHIP BUILDING MEMORIAL within Brays Bay Reserve acknowledges the contribution made on this site where small ships were constructed for service in WW2. The slip way on which the ships were constructed and launched from has been recreated in the parks ground plane. A piece of public art in the form of a ship’s bow resides beside the recreated slipway. The original design for this piece included an electronic voice over giving the history of the site, but this has since fallen into disrepair and no longer works. The Ship Building Memorial not only reflects the efforts of those who built the ships, but of those that served on them.

A PLACE THAT IS:

u Clean, safe and well maintained public domain

u Good quality amenities for example shade, seating, lighting, children’s activities, public art

A PLACE THAT HAS:

u Universal access – Rhodes as an accessible place for all

Opportunities for fun and excitement through activated spaces

THE MEMORIALS visually connect within Brays Bay Reserve, but the physical connection is tenuous and convoluted. The physical connection should be such that transitioning from one space to the other is both instinctive and achievable by everyone.

THE INTENT OF THE PROJECT is to reinforce the connection between the Track and the Ship Building Memorial by strengthening the physical relationship. The Ship Building Memorial needs work to reinstate the electronic component of the piece as well as work to the context within which it resides.

Comfort and Image

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Consider spaces where different generations can interact and experience the historical significance of the site

B Continue to support community gathering places where a wide range of community members are welcome and can participate in both structured programs or informal, unstructured activities

Connectivity

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Lighting and design matters are included in the renewal of the area to ensure safety and activation

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

A Continue to develop and implement a coordinated approach to the public domain of Rhodes through master planning and similar processes

Voice and Influence

THE NEXT 5 YEARS

A Involve both the community and broader group of stakeholders in the renewal of this site

AND STAKEHOLDERS

next steps

The Place Plan is a framework for future activities by Council and partner stakeholders in the Peninsula. It is not just a wish list of initiatives and actions.

The actions for the Next 5 Years are important as they reflect a commitment to the process and the place and can be used to demonstrate commitment that people who took part in the consultation have been listened to. The strategic directions are also important. Given the rapidly changing physical and community landscape in the Rhodes Peninsula some flexibility is required as to how these are implemented.

Importantly, the Rhodes Peninsula Place Plan requires a partnership approach to deliver. Council will be working with stakeholders to progress planning and delivery of key actions for Rhodes Peninsula.

For further information about the Place Plan and to register your interest in getting involved visit: http://www.canadabay.nsw.gov.au or phone Council on 9911 6555

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