Neatly tucked behind Central Station, Cleveland St and the subtle classiness that is Surry Hills, Prince Alfred Park is a surprisingly neat, clean and equipped park. I had always glanced at the place on my twenty metre strolls from the Elizabeth St bus stop to the Central Station entrance, imagining it to be like most of the other parks in Sydney City: full of ghastly pigeons and bearded men sleeping on benches. But it turns out that I was very wrong.
Feeling adventurous one day, I ventured for a walk down the park. I discovered a well groomed park lined with funky blue overhead lights and palm trees lining the paths, a plush lawn, and pale blue synthetic courts sprawled to the side. Old folk were in for their early morning jogs and mothers with prams were leisurely strolling the paths. It was definitely a family friendly affair with plenty of green to play ball games with the little ones.
The park was also fitted with four sets of swings, fitness and playground areas, a barbecue area and an ample arrangement of brand spanking new wooden benches and tables.
The two basketball courts were bustling with street-ballers looking for some fun in their NBA singlets eager to welcome strangers into the game. Five tennis courts were also available for hire.
Wonderfully new facilities with style
It was great to see a well-maintained, environmentally friendly, community encouraging park with good sporting facilities. I had long noticed the large fenced off area near Elizabeth St. So after some diligent online research, I was enlightened to find words of a current refurbishment featuring a new state-of-the-art sustainable swimming and toddler's pool (expected to be available in early 2012), more tennis courts and a skate park in the works.
Cityscape overlooking the park
Overall, Prince Alfred Park is a delight of a park. Modern (with a aqua blue theme), spacious, and clean, the landscape design centres on the lightly undulated and curvy paths of the park. I have a feeling this place is a secret that the locals don't want anyone to find out. Likewise, I hope it stays that way.
Rating: four and a half secrets out of five.
