Mofflin Reserve Redevelopment (Paginton Park)

Design Feature

Type of project
Placemaking
State
South Australia
Location
Urban
Mofflin Reserve sits within Elizabeth Vale, a culturally diverse suburb within Adelaide’s northern growth corridor and adjacent to the Lyell McEwin Hospital. Formerly a bare and disconnected space, the site offered little function or comfort for the surrounding communities and workers. The City of Playford saw an opportunity to transform the space into a healthy, inclusive and accessible destination.

Led by Landskap and supported by extensive community and Kaurna engagement, the redesign aimed to create a public realm that fosters wellbeing, physical activity and cultural recognition. As part of the Playford Health and Wellbeing Precinct, the reserve needed to balance therapeutic value for hospital users with active amenities for local residents.

The result is a nature-based reserve that blends therapeutic, active and social functions—providing places to heal, connect, play and exercise. Custom play elements, contemplative gardens, multipurpose sports spaces and accessible paths offer a high-quality park experience for everyone. With 81% green space, robust detailing and strong community support, Mofflin Reserve is a leading example of how well-designed open space can create inclusive, healthy environments in less advantaged areas.
Public Open Space
  • transformed a 27,000m2 once neglected site into a vibrant, nature-based public space with 81% green cover
  • retained 195 mature trees and planted over 350 new trees and 6,500 plants to improve urban biodiversity and long-term shade
  • includes 1.7km walking, running and learn-to-ride loops, nature play, a bespoke destination playground and open lawns
  • integrates shade trees and structures as well as seating to support rest, socialising and equitable access

Community Facilities


  • accessible public toilets, barbecues and custom-designed picnic shelters suitable for all-day family use
  • includes shaded seating nodes, outdoor gym equipment, a multipurpose sports plaza (basketball, netball, hit wall), and spaces for quiet reflection
  • therapeutic gardens with sensory planting, reclaimed stormwater pipe planters, and natural materials provide comfort for all ages and abilities

Destinations


  • located less than 100 m from Lyell McEwin Hospital, offering a green retreat for healthcare workers, patients and visitors
  • now serves as activity hub for school excursions, rehabilitation programs, family gatherings, twilight cinema nights and pop-up events
  • designed with safety in mind using CPTED principles, open viewsheds and lighting to support after-dark use

Sense of place


  • framed by mature eucalypts and underplanted with local native species to reflect ecological character
  • shaped in close collaboration with Kaurna custodians, embedding local stories through interpretive signage, planting and artwork
  • inclusive play and gathering spaces support connection across cultures, generations and abilities, creating a deep sense of belonging

Project Team
  • City of Playford (client, stakeholder and Kaurna consultation)
  • Landskap (lead landscape design)
  • Outside Ideas (construction delivery)
  • Dryside Engineering (civil, stormwater, WSUD)
  • Kaurna Traditional Custodians (cultural collaboration)
  • Glenelg Irrigation, Enerven, BSE, Cirqa, Geared, Iguana Creative (specialist consultants)
  • Outerspace (initial masterplan)


Project cost:
$4.6 million ($170/m, including design, construction and project management).
$2 million came from State Open Space Grant and remainder from City of Playford.
HEALTH VALUE
Mofflin Reserve actively supports physical and mental wellbeing.
  • the design enables walking, play, fitness and passive rest through integrated loops, shaded seating and inclusive play areas
  • raised therapeutic garden beds offer sensory and rehabilitative experiences for hospital users
  • the calm and green setting contributes to stress reduction, supporting the mental health of visitors, staff and the broader community
  • all pathways and amenities meet universal design principles, ensuring no one is excluded from use or enjoyment

ECONOMIC VALUE
  • investment supports long-term economic resilience by enhancing local amenity and liveability
  • funding created local construction jobs and engaged Adelaide contractors and sustainable construction methods that created jobs and reduced material costs
  • high-quality public space can support community retention, attract families and reduce public health costs over time

ENVIRONMENTAL VALUE
  • retained 195 mature trees and planted over 350 new trees to improve canopy cover (targeting 34% shade within 5 years)
  • integrated WSUD elements such as bio-swales and smart irrigation to minimise runoff and support plant establishment
  • used reclaimed timber, stone and recycled stormwater pipes to reduce environmental footprint and promote circular economy

SOCIAL VALUE
  • designed with input from Kaurna Traditional Custodians and community stakeholders, fostering cultural connection and ownership
  • supports intergenerational activity and intercultural gathering, from solo walks to large community events
  • creates a safe, welcoming public space that reflects the diverse identity of Elizabeth Vale
  • public events such as twilight cinema nights activate the space and foster shared local pride

USE VALUE
  • since reopening, the reserve has become a well-loved daily destination for residents, school groups, hospital workers and visitors
  • its facilities are used for everything from fitness training to outdoor therapy, family play, learning excursions, walking and casual meet-ups
  • community feedback reflects high satisfaction, with users feeling welcomed, safe and connected.

Timeline: a 10-month process from landscape design to opening
  • consultation and design: 2022
  • construction: April – November 2023
  • official opening: January 2024

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