Approximately 11.1 hectares will be transformed into one of Box Hill’s great parklands, making it a central hub for sport and recreation in one of the fastest-growing suburbs in Sydney.
The Hills Shire Council has invested $4.9 million into developing the Water Lane Reserve sports complex, and a further $9.79 million was received from the NSW Government’s Accelerated Infrastructure Fund last year.
This funding will help convert 7.7 hectares of land into a thriving sports complex with two natural turf fields that will be used for AFL in the winter and athletics in the summer.
The fields will be complemented by a children’s playground, pathways, a car park with 201 spots, and an amenities block with accessible toilets, changerooms and a canteen.
Mayor Gangemi said Council is proud to invest in facilities that benefit the entire community.
“The Water Lane Reserve will provide much-needed sporting fields in Box Hill, which is growing daily with new families and people. It will also support grassroots sports and improve our residents’ health and well-being,” he said.
In another excellent win for the community, Council has also approved the master plan for the brand-new Rainforest Street Reserve, the second section of the sprawling parkland.
The initial proposal for the 3.4-hectare reserve, released for public input in May, featured a skate bowl, mountain bike trails, and a large playground.
Following feedback from residents, Council has made additional improvements, including more inclusive play equipment and room for a potential splash park in the future.
“The park facilities at Rainforest Street Reserve will be amongst the best in The Hills,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“The additional equipment will include a harness seat for the swing and flying fox, alongside several other all-abilities equipment, such as a basket swing, a child and parent-facing swing, playground musical equipment and a multi-person see-saw.
“Residents can also look forward to the ample grass kickabout play space and the well-laid-out pathways connecting to and within the park.”
Following the adoption of the Rainforest Street Reserve master plan, Council will look to fund the detailed design process in future budgets.
Meanwhile, Council is moving forward with its plans for the Water Lane Reserve with steps towards going out to tender for the construction of the new facility.
“I am looking forward to seeing these plans unfold for the Water Lane and Rainforest Street Reserves and our residents soon utilising these facilities once they are built,” Mayor Gangemi said.
