Nandi Reserve, a 12-hectare bushland site in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, has been revitalised under the NSW Government’s Parks for People Program. Shaped by community feedback, the upgrades introduced new pathways and opportunities to enhance connection through nature. These include walking trails, creek crossings, and nature play spaces, along with areas to sit and rest, all delivered with minimal impact on the natural environment’s ecology.
Nandi Reserve has exceeded expectations in implementing environmental protection measures while also increasing open space and recreational opportunities for the community. The project was carefully designed to minimise disturbance to the landscape, ensuring the preservation of its rich biodiversity. Extensive flora and fauna assessments guided the design to protect and enhance the ecological integrity of the endangered Duffy’s Forest Ecological Community.
Key environmental mitigation actions included:
- Retention of significant native vegetation and bush re-vegetation.
- Strategic pathway design to minimise ecological impact.
- Comprehensive weed management and native planting initiatives.
The new natural playground features interactive play areas that seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape, encouraging children to explore and connect with their environment. Climbing logs and rock formations invite hands-on engagement with the environment.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, in partnership with Arcadia, worked closely with the community to ensure the project aligned with public expectations for nature preservation and improved accessibility. Over 1.2 kilometres of new walking paths were added, with clearer entry points enhancing connectivity between the reserve and nearby roads. This collaborative approach fosters a strong sense of local ownership and responsibility for the reserve’s ongoing care.
Nandi Reserve has set a benchmark for sustainable park design and risk mitigation, ensuring long-term environmental resilience through best-practice sustainability initiatives. The landscape design incorporates water-sensitive infrastructure, such as permeable gravel paths and mesh-panelled raised boardwalks, which allows surface water to be absorbed naturally.
By retaining the existing topography, a natural drainage system was established, efficiently managing water flow. This approach reduces the risk of flooding and runoff pollution while supporting the health of deep soil root systems and maintaining the hydrological balance.
To ensure the enhancements integrate into the bushland landscape, sustainable and natural materials were used throughout the development. Recycled timber was used for boardwalks, and locally sourced sandstone was used for seating and decorative elements. These materials were selected to reduce waste and lower the environmental footprint of the project while blending harmoniously with the surroundings.
A biodiversity management plan ensures that the site’s ecological health is continually monitored. Regular assessments of vegetation regeneration, wildlife populations, and soil stability support the reserve’s long-term sustainability.
A core principle of the project was to prioritise low-impact interventions within the reserve. Winding pathways through the bushland invite visitors to meander and engage with the landscape at their own pace.
Nandi Reserve embodies excellence in environmental stewardship, balancing ecological integrity with community access and engagement. By prioritising sustainability and responding to local needs, it has created a lasting public space. This project stands as a leading example of how landscape architecture can foster conservation and connection, ensuring a lasting legacy of ecological care and public enjoyment.
Nandi Reserve
Location: Frenchs Forest NSW
Indigenous Nation: Guringai
Landscape Architect: Arcadia Landscape Architecture
Client: Department of Planning and Infrastructure and Northern Beaches Council
Photography: Elizabeth Kim
