Upgrade for Prince Alfred Park

One of inner Sydney’s oldest parks will soon be revitalised in a City of Sydney plan.

The city will spend $18.3 million to refurbish Surry Hills’ Prince Alfred Park, including an underground stormwater reuse system that will provide 95 percent of the park’s water needs, new tennis courts, a new temperature-controlled swimming pool, and shading and landscaped sunbathing areas. The park was established in 1865.

“By capturing the run-off from streets in an eight-hectare area surrounding the park we will be saving lots of drinking water and will contribute significantly to the city’s water savings targets in our Sustainable Sydney 2030 plan,” Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.

“Along with localised energy generation and energy-efficient lighting, this water recycling scheme will revitalise the park so it can be enjoyed for many years to come.

“This is the first extensive upgrade of this historic and very important community park in more than 50 years and provides new connected pathways and cycleways, new sporting facilities, custom-designed furniture, an innovative children’s playground and attractive open spaces and landscaping.”

The five new tennis courts will be used for professional exhibition matches and will also allow players in matches at Sydney Olympic Park and local residents to practise.

The plan also includes a substantial number of new tree plantings.