Western Sydney Lakes set for major transformation

Western Sydney Lakes (formerly Penrith Lakes) could soon be home to Sydney’s newest waterfront destination with plans to deliver a world-class precinct in time for the opening of Western Sydney International Airport.

The vision for a new leisure, lifestyle and recreation destination will be unveiled today by Jacqueline Vozzo, CEO of Western Sydney Lakes, in front of the NSW Premier at the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue’s annual Boomtown! Property and Infrastructure Summit.

Key features of the plans for Southbank[1] at Western Sydney Lakes are currently being assessed by the NSW Government. The plans will deliver a unique Western Sydney waterfront that includes public lakes, beaches, waterfront dining, resort, luxury retail outlets, business park, production precinct, golf course, rowing facility, cycling tracks, walking trails and native wetlands.

The centrepiece of the vision is the Lakehouse proposal, which will comprise a two-storey iconic pavilion surrounded by a pier, boardwalk and “lake run”, providing a safe swimming space for all.

Jacqueline Vozzo, CEO Western Sydney Lakes, said the objective of Western Sydney Lakes is to serve the recreational needs of Western Sydney.

“Western Sydney Lakes is entering its next phase of renewal and will transform into a major tourism and recreation destination that will be locally loved. Upon completion, this will not only be Western Sydney’s playground, but one of the country’s truly iconic attractions that combines the best that a harbour foreshore and beachfront has to offer in the heart of Western Sydney,” Ms Vozzo said.

“With a new 24-7 international Airport opening in less than four years that will bring millions of visitors to our doorstep we can’t wait to show Western Sydney to the world.

“The Southbank precinct offers a refreshing climate for people to play, work, relax and visit, with access to fresh water against a panoramic backdrop. The precinct has the potential to offer a variety of destinations delivering regionally significant open spaces that are supported and enhanced by sustainable mixed use urban development.”

The proposal will provide an economic boost to Western Sydney, contributing a potential 5,000 direct jobs and almost 10,000 indirect jobs.

Five times the size of Centennial Parklands, the Western Sydney Lakes project pays respect to the site’s history and spirit. The Nepean River has long been a place for communities to gather, and the land is steeped in indigenous connection and colonial history. The area was also once a quarry supporting Sydney’s housing and infrastructure projects for generations.

Western Sydney Lakes has now been through a period of rehabilitation, presenting pristine waterways, parklands and rejuvenated natural habitats and is looking towards its next stage of renewal.

The mix of abundant open green space, sandy beaches and network of lakes set against the backdrop of the World Heritage Blue Mountains creates a unique visitor destination. It will combine the site’s natural beauty with top quality food, dining, retail and commercial options as well as a range of different leisure activities that will appeal to all ages.

Western Sydney Lakes is already home to the Penrith Whitewater Stadium and the Sydney International Regatta Centre, which opened for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, attracting water sport enthusiasts from across the country and around the world.

The new development plans also include an extension of the Great River Walk and construction of a 20km walking and cycleway, with training and racing opportunities for triathlon and cycle clubs.

There is also a proposed Production Precinct, which would include film and TV studios, production stages, filming tanks, construction and design facilities, a film school, as well as an 18-hole golf course and heliport.

Christopher Brown AM, Chairman of the leading regional think-tank Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue, said the vision will provide much-needed access to recreational facilities for the people of Western Sydney.

“This is a once in a generation opportunity to totally transform a disused site in the heart of Greater Western Sydney into a unique amenity for all to enjoy,” he said.

“We have long campaigned for access to swimmable waterways in the region, and we urge the State Government to get behind this project and deliver much needed green and blue open spaces that the people of Western Sydney are crying out for.”