UNSW’s $30m Village Green revamp to cater for professional and community sport

A mega revamp of UNSW’s largest open space has been unveiled. It includes an outdoor gym bouldering facility, urban gardens and free barbecues. See the plans.

UNSW's new village green space

A $30 million revamp of the University of New South Wales’ largest open space into a “sporting, recreational, social and wellness” venue is finally complete after being delayed by the pandemic.

The new Village Green on the university’s Kensington campus is 25,000 square metres for students, staff and even members of the public to “relax, recreate and contemplate”.

Under the upgrade, the grass oval at the lower campus has been turned into a synthetic pitch, along with three multipurpose courts, an outdoor gym and bouldering facility.

A UNSW spokeswoman said the professional-grade facility will host sports from community clubs to elite and sub-elite levels.

“All facilities are available for public use; some facilities, such as the caged multipurpose court, may incur a booking fee,” she said.

The $30m upgrade will be unveiled on Monday. Picture: UNSW

Also added under the project were urban gardens, free barbecues, power outlets, a grandstand and change room facilities.

The below-ground stormwater infiltration tank has also been upgraded, with the spokeswoman saying The Village Green is an essential part of the campus stormwater and infiltration system.

“The new tank captures campus stormwater underground, contributes to recharging the Botany Aquifer, and in doing so, provides a substantial sustainable water supply on campus,” she said.

“Together, with the multipurpose pitch, the redevelopment will reduce water usage on the site”.

It will be UNSW’s largest ‘recreational and wellness precinct’. Picture: UNSW

Asked specifically what the wellness and mental health aspect of the revamp was, the spokeswoman said research showed people who participate in sports clubs and organised recreational activities enjoyed better mental health, were more alert and more resilient against the stresses of modern living.

“Facilities such as the outdoor gym, bouldering wall, running track and sports fields, and passive recreational spaces such as urban gardens that are available for community projects and encourage students to study in nature, as well as the inclusive design for all-ability access, all promote social interaction, community building and create a sense of belonging for everyone who uses the Village Green,” she said.

The project was delayed due to Covid. Picture: UNSW

UNSW’s Wellbeing Director, Neil Morris, said he wanted everyone to experience the benefits of sport and the impact on student’s studies.

“The space will also be a boon for our neighbours, providing access to world-class facilities where local clubs and their athletes can meet and develop local programs,” he said.

The Village Green was constructed throughout 2020-2022 after a year of consultation with staff, students and clubs.

The venue will officially open on Monday.