One of the state’s most important public parklands is set for a $56 million makeover thanks to the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s WestInvest program, making it one of the best places to walk or ride a bike and soak up Parramatta’s history.
Treasurer Matt Kean said the funding would future-proof the World Heritage-listed Parramatta Park as a crucial public space for the growing Western Sydney community.
“Parramatta Park is an 87-hectare green oasis on the doorstep of the Parramatta CBD and Westmead Health Precinct and it must be able to cater for the growing number of families flocking to the area,” Mr Kean said.
“We’re building two new pedestrian and cycling bridges over the area known as Little Coogee, making it easier than ever to walk or ride between the park and the Parramatta CBD, Commbank Stadium and Westmead Health Precinct.”
Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport Rob Stokes said funding would go towards reconfiguring the way people move around the park.
“We can now realise our vision for the People’s Loop, a 3.2 kilometre path for walkers, runners and bike riders, while creating new access points and parking bays for families who need to drive to the park,” Mr Stokes said.
“We’ll also restore the original vision for the town of Parramatta, reinstating the historic connection between Old Government House and the Parramatta River, with an uninterrupted walk through the old gatehouse along George Street.”
Member for Parramatta Geoff Lee said Parramatta’s heritage would be further celebrated with the restoration of Wistaria Gardens and Glengarriff House.
“Parramatta Park is a heritage gem and I’m delighted to see that these two important pieces of Parramatta’s history will be restored to their former glory,” Mr Lee said.
Liberal candidate for Parramatta Katie Mullens said this investment would mean the park can accommodate the community for generations to come.
“The park welcomes two million visitors every year and that’s expected to grow 65 per cent by the year 2036, which is why this funding is so crucial to ensuring everyone can continue to enjoy it,” Ms Mullens said.
The project will be delivered by Greater Sydney Parklands over the next five years in consultation with the community.