Western Sydney will soon enjoy a greatly enhanced riverside walk and nature reserve thanks to work starting on a $13 million waterfront investment at Tench Reserve as part of the NSW Government’s $50 million Parks for People Program.
Tench Reserve in Jamisontown will see the creation of a new amphitheatre, inclusive playspace and improvements to the 7km River Walk stretching along the Nepean River, and is the first of eight new and upgraded parks to begin construction.
Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the works would support a growing community in Western Sydney and deliver improvements to more than 11 hectares of regional open space close to homes.
“This is a milestone for the Parks for People Program as the first to get underway, inspired by one of Penrith’s most beautiful natural assets, the Nepean River,” Mr Roberts said.
“Along with the upgraded wharf precinct and improved amenities, the park will feature an inclusive playspace, better access to the water, landscaping and 80 new trees.”
Mr Roberts said Parks for People would create hundreds of new jobs from its $50 million investment in new open spaces, including in Camden, Campbelltown, Fairfield, Parramatta, Penrith, Northern Beaches and The Hills.
Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said six of the eight parks in the program were in Sydney’s West and would support the Government’s priority of increasing the proportion of homes in urban areas within ten minutes’ walk of quality green, open and public space.
“We’re working in partnership with councils to set a new standard for high-quality public open space, with easily accessible places to relax, exercise, and connect with families and friends in the beauty of well-designed green spaces,” Mr Ayres said.
“The upgrades build a stronger connection between the park and the river and will support our vision of making the Nepean River precinct an exceptional destination for nature and recreation. Our investment in the river precinct has made it the beating hear of Penrith”
Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the Nepean River was the region’s greatest natural asset and a much-loved recreational destination for residents and visitors alike.
“Penrith City Council welcomes the upgrade of Tench Reserve through the Parks for People Program. The upgrade aligns with our vision of enhancing the natural environment and supporting active and healthy lifestyles through connections with the river,” Cr Hitchen said.
Tench Reserve is due to be completed in December 2022 with the other parks to get underway throughout the year.
For more information please visit dpie.nsw.gov.au/tench
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