We love to play at Our River

Monday, 31 August 2015

The first physical transformation on the road to delivering the Our River Masterplan is now in place at the end of Jamison Road near Tench Avenue.

A new playground with equipment to entertain children of all ages including a toddler structure and nest swing has recently been installed.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler said the river is one of Penrith's favourite places.

"This new playground is a first physical step in delivering on the community-led Our River Masterplan and was designed in consultation with families who told us there needed to be opportunities for toddlers as well as older children," Councillor Fowler said.

"The playground is well situated under established shade trees and has a shade structure over an accessible picnic table. It also links well with the existing path network."

The Our River Masterplan is a roadmap for how we protect and make the most of the river into the future, including connections to Penrith City Centre, enhancing its natural environment, nurturing a landscape that supports active, healthy lifestyles and celebrating its rich history and cultural values.

"Opportunities for cafes, recreation and leisure such as pedestrian and cycle loops, will also be implemented over time and plans to improve views and expanding Regatta Park into a flexible event and festival space are now underway," Cr Fowler said .

"The intention of the Masterplan is to re-invigorate the river with both the landscape and people of Penrith. It's a considered process which encourages participation, partnership and creative expression," Cr Fowler said.

The new playground was jointly funded by the Parks Asset Renewal Fund and a 2011 Special Rate Variation and is one of 7 playgrounds to be upgraded across the City last financial year. Funding support was also provided under the State Government's Community Building Partnership and Metropolitan Greenspace programs.

"We acknowledge and appreciate this support and the investment made in one of Western Sydney's most iconic locations," Cr Fowler said.

Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres described the Nepean River precinct as a core component of a playful and active Penrith.

"This upgrade will ensure locals and visitors with children have fun play facilities enabling them to be active and build friendships," Mr Ayres said.

"I am proud to have recommended this project for funding and look forward to seeing  the benefits it provides to young people."

The State Government has provided a further $187,500 for planning around Regatta Park, which will become increasingly popular upon completion of the Nepean River Green Bridge.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Monday, 31 August 2015.