11 December 2015

Parking facilities at George Kendall Riverside Park have been vastly improved with the completion this week of a new car park project off Broadoaks Street, Ermington.

Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard and General Manager, PAYCE Dominic Sullivan, officially opened the all-weather bitumen car park today.

The car park was built by PAYCE and Sekisui House Australia, developers of the nearby Royal Shores apartment complex, at no cost to Parramatta City Council as part of a voluntary planning agreement with Council.

The project is part of a $3.8 million public amenities package that also includes two observation decks overlooking the Parramatta River, a children’s playground in Halvorsen Park, landscaping and lighting along the shared pedestrian/cycleway path between the car park and the river.

The western car park has 79 marked spaces, including three accessible bays, and during construction, large heritage sandstone blocks already on site were recycled to build a new retaining wall to protect existing trees. A new stormwater system and gardens that form part of the new landscaping works will minimise pollutants entering the river.

Dozens of mature trees were planted to provide shade, while the car park will be well lit at night by eco-friendly LED lights when in use and improved emergency access will allow emergency vehicles and personnel to gain access to the oval and parklands direct from the car park in all weather conditions.

Cr Garrard welcomed the opening of the new car park which will benefit not only local residents, but the broader community.

“This new facility is an excellent addition to the network of car parks we have in the Parramatta LGA and I’m sure it will get lots of use in the coming months from sporting groups, locals, and picnickers enjoying summer in the park,“ the Lord Mayor said.

“Having ample, all-weather parking available will make it easier for people to access the 27 hectares of parklands and shared pathways and encourage greater use of this wonderful recreation resource.”

PAYCE General Manager Dominic Sullivan said the car park was just the beginning, with several new amenities being provided for the enjoyment and benefit of local residents and visitors to the area.

“This location by the river and the expansive parklands offers a great lifestyle that is not readily available elsewhere,” he said.

“In creating a new community at Royal Shores, PAYCE and Sekisui House Australia are committed to working in partnership with Council to deliver a vibrant and friendly lifestyle where the local community can relax and enjoy all the benefits from living in such a beautiful part of Sydney.”