With temperatures continuing to soar, the people of Western Sydney only have a short wait until they can cool off at a major new swimming spot at Penrith Lakes this summer.
Penrith Beach will be open for public access from the afternoon of Tuesday, 19 December in time for the start of the school holidays.
The new beach is backed by a $1.7 million investment from the NSW Government for vital construction and safety work currently underway.
The site will be managed by the Department of Planning and Environment after an agreement with Western Sydney Lakes.
The beach will be open seven days a week from late December to early March 2024 except for Christmas Day.
The first week will be used to gather feedback and fine-tune the experience, and we ask that people be patient during this time in case of delays.
Public safety at the site is paramount – it’s currently closed for public access while vital measures are put in place, including facilities and car parking, change rooms, toilets and access for people with disabilities to make sure the beach is ready for visitors.
Lifeguard services and first aid will be available in the designated and patrolled swimming zone and the water quality will be monitored regularly during the summer.
A ‘Kiss and Ride’ zone will be available at Penrith Beach for visitors and there will also be a shuttle bus service from Penrith Station.
Online registration is essential for car parking. There are 700 car spaces and access will be provided through free parking vouchers.
Register for updates and find more details on how to book.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:
“There are just five more sleeps until Western Sydney’s first ever beach is open.
“The creation of this new beach means the people of Western Sydney will no longer be faced with drives of up to an hour to cool off over summer.
“I cannot wait for this spectacular new swim spot to open. See you at Penrith Beach!”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:
“Western Sydney’s always been a great place to live, and this new beach will make it even better this summer.
“This is about rebalancing the benefits of everything that living in Sydney has to offer and making sure communities have access to the best facilities whatever their postcode.
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said:
“I don’t think I’ve been more excited for the people of Penrith for a long time, this new gem of a beach will put many smiles on many faces this summer.
“It’s an incredible boost for local families and a great place to bring the kids to cool off in the heat during the school holidays.”