FUNDING TO SUPPORT BETTER PARKS IN SYDNEY

Planning Minister Rob Stokes has welcomed a new 1.5km path in the Australian Botanic Garden, which was funded by a NSW Government grant.

Inspecting the new Botanic Garden trail, Mr Stokes said the new shared pathway for cyclists and pedestrians was funded by a $445,000 Metropolitan Greenspace Program grant. The project is the first section completed in the garden and forms part of the larger 14km Macarthur Regional Recreation Trail being developed.

“Spring is a perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful open spaces around Sydney like the Australian Botanic Garden here at Mount Annan,” Mr Stokes said.

“The NSW Government is committed to investing in better parks, playgrounds and open spaces. Our Metropolitan Greenspace Program has provided nearly $8 million over the past four years for such projects, and we will continue to support local community efforts to improve their natural surroundings.

“I want more places like this across Sydney. That’s why I’ve tasked the Greater Sydney Commission, once established, to deliver our new Green Grid and work with councils to fund more projects like this cycleway.”

The next round of Metropolitan Greenspace Program funding is now open and will provide $3 million for open space projects. The program will help build Sydney’s Green Grid, an interconnected network of Sydney’s parks and green spaces.

Member for Camden Chris Patterson said he was pleased to see the new path network taking shape.

“The Australian Botanic Garden holds a special place in our community, and this cycleway is a wonderful addition to help locals and visitors enjoy this terrific open space,” Mr Patterson said.

All 41 metropolitan councils as well as councils on the Central Coast are eligible to apply for the grants. Applications close Monday, 9 November.