Blue Mountains News

Ms Berejiklian said for the first time, NSW will have a Minister for Public Spaces who will identify and protect publicly owned land for use as parks or public spaces.

“Access to green and open space is crucial for communities to thrive,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We will appoint a Minister for Public Spaces who will be responsible for enhancing and expanding the State’s parks, gardens and open spaces, ensuring that there is sufficient open space across NSW."

Mr Ayres welcomed the $10 million investment, which is expected to create high-quality parklands along the Nepean River.

“Penrith people just love being near the river. These funds will open up and improve parks along the riverbank allowing more space for fun with family and friends, playing sport, active recreation and relaxing.”

“This funding will go a long way to providing better access to the river, opening up opportunities for active recreation such as kayaking and paddle boarding, as well as updating the onsite playgrounds, barbeque facilities, cycleways and walking trails.”

The $150 million in funding will create a network of connected parks and open space, and improve the quality of existing parks.

The Department of Planning and Environment’s Office of Open Space and Parklands will lead the delivery of the funding in partnership with Councils and the local community.