North Sydney residents are being encouraged to have their say on plans to return 2.5 hectares of parkland to the community as part of the Western Harbour Tunnel project.
The NSW Government and Transport for NSW have released the draft design for the new Cammeray Parklands, which will transform land currently being used as a construction site into open green space for community use. The draft plan includes new trees and gardens, open lawns, shared pathways, active recreation facilities and spaces for passive enjoyment. The proposed parklands will also connect with nearby open spaces, including Cammeray Golf Course and Anzac Park.
North Sydney Mayor Zoe Baker joined Councillors Godfrey Santer and Shannon Welch at the launch of the consultation.
Mayor Baker welcomed the return of green space to the community, particularly in one of Sydney's most densely populated areas.
“Open space is vital to the health, wellbeing and liveability of our community, particularly in an increasingly dense area like North Sydney,” Mayor Baker said.
“Council remains firmly committed to protecting and maximising public open space wherever possible.
Mayor Baker said the draft plan represented a positive step for the community, while acknowledging it does not fully compensate for the significant impacts of major road projects in the area.
“While Cammeray has experienced a net loss of open space as a result of major road infrastructure, the outcome proposed is better than what was initially feared.
“Council and the community have advocated strongly for the greatest possible amount of land to be returned for genuine public use, and our focus now is ensuring these parklands deliver the best possible outcome for generations to come.”
The return of trees, gardens and recreational spaces is particularly important for North Sydney, which has some of the lowest levels of open space per person in the region. The new parklands will provide opportunities for people to relax, exercise, connect with nature and enjoy time outdoors close to home.
While the community has experienced years of disruption from the Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway Upgrade projects, the restoration of this land will help repair and reconnect an area that was once valued green space.
The draft design is now on public exhibition, and Council is encouraging residents to review the plans and provide feedback directly to Transport for NSW.
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