To accommodate the increased open space, the southern end of Rankins Road was turned into a two-way street and the southern portion of Eastwood Street was permanently closed and converted into parkland. There was no loss of car spaces, with the introduction of angle parking on Eastwood Street.

Two existing mature River Red Gums have been augmented with variety of new tree species to provide extra shade in summer and improve the area’s biodiversity and cooling capability. The new tree species include Allocasuarina littoralis (commonly known as Black Sheoak), Eucalyptus melliodora (Yellow Box) and Brachychiton x roseus (Kurrajong Tree).

Water sensitive urban design garden beds have also been introduced at the northern end of the reserve to capture and clean stormwater.

Changes to the area:

1. Albermarle and Hardiman streets upgrade
   The revised concept plan (PDF, 458 KB) is now available.
   
   
2. Bellair Street Playground renewal
   The Bellair Street Playground concept plan (PDF, 435 KB) shows the proposed upgrades for Bellair Street Playground, commonly known as “Skinny Park”. The playground renewal will provide a similar range of play experiences to what is currently provided, and will be added to where possible.
   
   
3. Bellair Street pedestrian crossing
   A zebra pedestrian crossing and an additional road hump are to be installed on Bellair Street on the north side of Macaulay Road. The project is expected to improve safety and access for people walking to Kensington Station and can be viewed in the final plan (PDF, 1.28 MB).
   
   
4. Eastwood and Rankins Reserve park expansion
   By increasing the size of the small park and improving its accessibility, there will be opportunities for new uses and enhanced landscape character. Additional tree planting and permeable surfaces will also allow for better use of rain and stormwater. View the Eastwood and Rankins Reserve concept plan (PDF, 3.25 MB).