Public consultation to develop a masterplan for the public space either side of Nepean River is in full swing.
Clouston Associates have been engaged by Penrith Council as consultants on the development of the masterplan, which Mayor, Mark Davies, hopes will reconnect Penrith with the river and its surrounds.
“The city has turned its back on the river but this masterplan will unlock the land around the river again and reconnect Penrith to this natural gem,” he said.
Director of Clouston Associates, Crosbie Lorimer, said that now is the right time to be considering the river once more.
“The river is such an important icon has has so much potential. Penrith Council has been very proactive in its Great River Walk, and as that progresses, it is the right time to consider a masterplan for the river,” he said.
Consultants have been riding bikes along the river, stopping people to ask them about their preferences for development along the river.
Stakeholder Engagement manager, Jo Kelly, said that so far there has been a lot of feedback from people who want to see more entertainment and nightlife around the river.
“There is definitely a demand to have the river opened up for festivals, markets, and nightlife during the summer,” she said.
Cr Davies said that Council was also looking at options such as the arts and natural spaces for children to play in.
A community forum will kickstart the official public consultation process, which will be held in the Nepean Room, Penrith City Council, on Wednesday, June 12 from 6pm to 8pm.
“We want residents to think outside the box and come up with creative ideas that they would like to see along the river,” Ms Kelly said.
Further information about the ‘Our River’ masterplan can be found on Penrith Council’s website.
