City Park in the Penrith CBD has opened this morning, ahead of an official ceremony next year.
Located on the corner of Henry and Station Streets in the City Centre, the 7,000 sqm site has been transformed into a thriving green space with a central lawn, a 78-metre sunken rain garden, amenities building with green roof, trees which will grow over time to provide natural shade, four pergolas, seating, and public artwork.
Several water features including a circular water fountain, cascading pools with a connecting stream, and fog fountains will help to cool and refresh visitors to City Park in the warmer months.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the completion of the highly anticipated City Park was a game changer for the City.
“Penrith now has its very own vibrant, communal space in the City Centre for workers and shoppers to meet up and get some fresh air in the outdoors during the day, and for residents and visitors to enjoy special events in the evening,” Carney said.
“City Park will become a focal point for Penrith and help stimulate the local economy by attracting more people into the City Centre and encouraging them to explore our exciting shops, restaurants, bars and cafes.
“Thank you to the NSW Government for understanding the value of this transformative project and for supporting Council to bring City Park to life.”
Allen Place laneway has also been widened and revitalised with a paved footpath, vehicle loading bay area, mountable kerb, garden beds, tree planting, and the installation of raised pedestrian thresholds as part of the project.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the jointly-funded project included a $4 million contribution from the NSW Government as part of the NSW Public Spaces Legacy program and funding through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
“The NSW Government is committed to investing in new and upgraded public open space areas,” Scully said.
“It’s important that growing communities like Penrith have easily accessible recreational green spaces where the communities can come together to relax and unwind.
“The public open spaces created through the NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program will shape and connect communities for generations to come.”
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said City Park is ideally situated for the local community being opposite Penrith Westfield and within a short walking distance from Penrith Station.
Council will hold an official opening and community event in City Park in early 2024, inviting the community to celebrate this iconic park.
Troy Dodds is the Weekender’s Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.
