Two new community places have been proposed thanks to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment's NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program.
The program was initiated by the Department to allow for faster delivery of 'legacy' planning proposals – those projects that had received a gateway determination more than three years ago but were not yet fully funded.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, thanked the NSW Government for the opportunity to propose two key community projects - a playground and pathways network at Bella Vista Farm and a new community centre and car park at Anthony Skarratt Reserve - for funding consideration.
"I know many residents will be delighted with these much-anticipated projects," Mayor Byrne said.
Mayor Byrne said that the public areas of Bella Vista Farm had grown in popularity as a picnic spot and recreational location following a previous upgrade to the toilets and barbecue areas, and a playground would complete the experience.
"A playground for Bella Vista Farm has been on everyone's wish list – full funding will enable us to deliver a place that will transform gatherings of family and friends into 'stay and play all day' opportunities," she said.
"The Farm is also the start of the popular Greenway Link cycleway that stretches beyond Aberdoon House through to Rouse Hill, and completion of a shared pathway network will allow for connectivity to the regional cycleway network, as well improving internal passage."
The design and construction of a new community centre with car park at Anthony Skarratt Reserve would replace the current Box Hill Community Centre to accommodate the growing community.
"The new Anthony Skarratt Reserve Community Centre will serve a population of approximately 45,000 new residents in the Box Hill/Gables area, as well as providing improved facilities for existing residents in surrounding suburbs like Rouse Hill," Mayor Byrne said.
The total amount of funding for both projects is $4.75 million.
"On behalf of The Hills Shire Council and our residents, I would like to wholeheartedly thank the NSW Government," Mayor Byrne said.
"Both projects are enormously important for helping to create inspiring places within our community that promote connectedness, wellbeing and opportunities for active recreation," she said.
"We look forward to further announcements on these projects."
