Mayor's Community Message
20 May
CIVIC CENTRE OPTIONS
In this fifth instalment of my narrative on the history of the Ryde Civic Centre site at 1 Devlin Street, I will be looking at the options Council has explored over the last two years since identifying and rectifying the mismanagement of internal funds associated with the original ‘Ryde Central’ project.
In February 2024, Council resolved to consider a proposal to fill the ‘hole in the ground’ and transform it into community open space.
However, subsequent cost estimates were significant, ranging from $4.95 million for a basic park with no remediation, no amenities and simple grass cover to $14.3 million for a top tier delivery which would include remediation, plants, seats, minor structural covering, lighting, and other features. As a result, and in line with Council’s commitment to financial sustainability, this plan did not progress.
Then at the 10 December 2024 Ordinary Meeting, Council made the decision to undertake an Expression of Interest (EOI) campaign for the long-term lease of the site, with the resulting funds to be invested into community and cultural facilities across the City.
The EOI process took place between 18 September and 23 October 2025 but in February 2026, the tender was cancelled after an Evaluation Panel comprising of independent experts and Council staff determined that no tender submission had conformed with Council’s requirements.
RECONCILIATION WEEK
National Reconciliation Week – a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia – takes place from 27 May – 3 June.
The City of Ryde is a proud participant in this important annual event, with the theme for 2026 being ‘All In’, a call for all Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every single day.
Council has a fantastic program of events and discussions around National Reconciliation Week and I encourage everyone to get involved. For details, click here.
VOLUNTEER WEEK
National Volunteer Week runs until 24 May and as part of this wonderful celebration of our unsung community heroes, Council is holding its Volunteer Recognition Awards ceremony on Wednesday 20 May at Curzon Hall, Marsfield.
This is a fantastic way to acknowledge some of our community’s most dedicated and selfless people and I congratulate all 38 nominees across our four categories for their amazing efforts in making our City a kinder and better place.
Sincerely,
Trenton Brown – Mayor