Matraville’s Purcell Park was reopened this morning, Monday 21 December 2020, by Randwick Mayor Danny Said following works to improve and remediate the area and install a new BBQ and picnic shelter.

The works also involved two major projects; the first to remediate the area following the discovery of asbestos, and the second to install a new stormwater harvesting system, which would repurpose stormwater and treated runoff from the nearby Opal paper mill to irrigate the park.

Asbestos remediation work included the capping of existing soil, installation of membrane fabric and infill of fresh soil and new turf, all in accordance with NSW EPA requirements. The installation of the stormwater recycling system will provide a reliable water source to irrigate the park keeping the grass healthy and the soil stable.

The new 260KL stormwater treatment system includes filtration units, pumps, treatment shed and an automatic irrigation system for the park and will save up to 20ML of potable water every year.

“These improvements will give new life to Purcell Park, which is a favourite among local families in the area,” stated Randwick Mayor Danny Said. “The stormwater treatment system will provide ample water to keep the 1.3 hectare park green all year ‘round and I have no doubt the new BBQ and picnic shelter will be well used by local families.

“The BBQ and shelter came about after some residents saw the works going on and put forward a request to Council. We saw the sense in it and were happy to amend the works to include these additions. 2020 has shown us many things and chief among these is that it’s vital to have ample green space for residents to enjoy. It’s fantastic that Purcell Park will bring so much enjoyment to our residents.”

New gates and bollards have also been installed along Australia Ave as traffic calming measures.