Innovative plans to improve open spaces and boost outdoor recreation for all ages are set to come to fruition, thanks to more than $18 million in NSW Government funding.
Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the funding, delivered through the new Open Spaces and Metropolitan Greenspace Programs, will see more than 50 projects brought to life, with the aim of getting NSW residents outdoors to play, swim and roam.
“Enjoying and exploring the outdoors is a way of life throughout NSW and we are helping deliver greater access to well-designed open spaces, close to where people live,” Mr Roberts said.
“Whether it’s taking the kids for a swim in the Nepean River, exploring the tunnel at The Coal Loader, or spending some time in nature at the new inclusive playspaces in Kew, there are opportunities for everyone.”
The Open Spaces Program will fund 40 projects through three streams – Places to Roam, Places to Swim, and Places to Play – with an over $15 million investment in this inaugural round to deliver new swimming facilities, community gardens, regional walking and cycling trails, and adventure play areas. It will also help councils speed up their delivery of homes and jobs over the next decade.
Mr Roberts said, additionally, through the latest round of the Metropolitan Greenspace Program, a total of $2.7 million has been allocated to 12 council-led projects, selected to improve access to open space across Greater Sydney and Central Coast.
“These projects will bring to life both new and improved outdoor areas within a 10-minute walk from more than 13,000 homes,” he said.
“It will also feed into our green grid strategy in the Inner West, which will support more than 80,000 homes with better access to a network of quality green spaces.
“The Metropolitan Greenspace Program has been running for almost 40 years, giving councils the autonomy and support to create spaces that people love, including the Great Blue Mountains Trail and Narrabeen Lagoon Boardwalk.”
For more information, visit Open Spaces Program and Metropolitan Greenspace Program.