Former Meadowbank Public School Conversion to Open Space

The Department of Education is proposing to convert the former Meadowbank Public School site (Thistle Street, Ryde) into public open space.

The NSW Government is committed to providing high-quality, inclusive, safe, inviting and well-maintained open spaces that are sustainably managed for the benefit of the community.

The space will be located at the original site of Meadowbank Public School (Thistle Street, Ryde).

Once complete, the site will be freely available for all local residents and visitors who wish to enjoy their time outdoors.

The size of the site is about 9,100 sqm, however the size of the park will be determined through the design process in consultation with City of Ryde Council, Department of Education and technical stakeholders.

All of the former Meadowbank Public School will be demolished. Our consultations have revealed that the most valuable community use of the entire site would be open green space.

Early plans for this project included a provision for retaining the former school hall for community use. Consultation with City of Ryde Council, the community, Department of Education and technical stakeholders has since revealed that the hall is not fit-for-purpose for public use and is not connected to the town centre or transport options.

The childcare centre building, which was owned by the former operator, is no longer in use and was left in a state of disrepair following the expiry of the former operator’s lease. We will seek planning approval for its removal and plan to integrate the area it occupies into the community open space.

The availability of green open spaces not only encourage healthy and active lifestyles in the community, they also help to connect communities regardless of age, ability, and/or background.

The delivery of this project will provide a high-quality, accessible and well-designed open space, contributing to the livability of the area.