A brand-new public space for Parramatta’s youth is on the cards with the community invited to have their say on the project.
Rangihou Reserve, on the edge of the CBD, has been earmarked for the Active Youth are Healthy Youth project featuring an amphitheatre, adventure space, multi-purpose half courts and social hubs, creating spaces for young people to connect, socialise and stay active.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said it was important to provide spaces for youth to grow and enjoy in the community.
“Young people are our future, so we need to provide age-appropriate facilities that are safe, welcoming and designed for how young people want to spend time with their friends,” Cr Zaiter said.
“Council’s Community Infrastructure Strategy identified a gap in facilities for teenagers and young adults in our community, and this is one step to address that.
“About 15 per cent of the population is aged 18 to 24 years old, but only around two per cent of the existing play space network caters for young people aged 13 and over.”
During the first round of community consultation in March and April last year, young people told Council they wanted a range of diverse spaces from social and performances spaces to a ‘Ninja Warrior’ style obstacle course.
“Many existing parks and play spaces across the City are designed primarily for younger children and as a fast-growing and diverse global City, we are ahead of the pack when it comes to providing recreational facilities for young people of all ages,” Cr Zaiter said.
“Like our parkour paradise Junction St Plaza, Rangihou Reserve could be the next place for teenagers and young adults to hang out, have fun and relax.
“I encourage everyone to have their say so we can make this a space that young people will visit from right across the City of Parramatta.”
Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis MP said: “It’s great to be investing in safe enjoyable places for children and youth of all ages to have fun, chill and meet up with friends.”
This $1.5m project is proudly funded by the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program in association with City of Parramatta Council.
To have your say, please visit Participate Parramatta.
