NSW Labor will open up Prospect Reservoir for recreational activities to give families in Western Sydney a place to swim and enjoy the outdoors.
 
Families in Western Sydney have very little access to open, safe and affordable water areas for recreation.
 
This contrast between the east and west of Sydney was particularly stark during the 2021 lockdowns when eastern parts of the city were easily able to access water within their 5km radius – white those in the west were subject to far tighter restrictions.
 
NSW Labor will conduct a rapid feasibility study in government to inform the best way to open Prospect Reservoir for swimming and non-motorised water craft, what amenities upgrades are required, as well as ensuring there are no impacts on water supply.
 
Prospect Reservoir will then be opened for use for swimming, recreation around the shore, kayaking and non-motorised craft, and where possible a section available for fishing from the shore.
 
Prospect Reservoir is currently used as a supplementary source for Sydney’s water supply during drought, high demand times and when other parts of the system are undergoing maintenance.
 
South Australia, Queensland, and the ACT have all safely opened up water supply dams and reservoirs for recreation or fishing – and given how rare outdoor water areas are for the large parts of Sydney who don’t live on the coast, it’s about time NSW did the same.
 
The feasibility study will be completed in time to open the reservoir for the July school holidays, which will then be subject to a 12 month trial.
 
A NSW Labor Government will work with local governments to provide lifeguard services for the reservoir.
 
Chris Minns, NSW Labor Leader said:
 
“Families in Western Sydney have limited access to safe and affordable water recreation – for too many, it means time and tolls spent just to get to a beach.
 
“This announcement will provide a nearby spot for recreational water activities for families in Western Sydney.”
 
Greg Warren, NSW Shadow Minister for Western Sydney said:
 
“2021 reminded us of the stark contrast in access to amenities between Sydney’s east and west.
 
“I am so proud that NSW Labor is committing to opening up Prospect Reservoir for recreational use.”
 
Rose Jackson, NSW Shadow Minister for Water said:  
 
“NSW Labor will improve access to water activities for families in Western Sydney, while ensuring both the safety of recreational users as well as our city’s drinking water.”
 
Hugh McDermott, Member for Prospect said:
 
“Opening Prospect Reservoir for recreational swimming is a major win for our families.
 
I can’t wait to take my kids swimming in the Prospect Reservoir – it’s a beautiful lake we can all finally enjoy.”
CHRIS MINNS MP
NSW LABOR LEADER
 
GREG WARREN MP
NSW SHADOW MINISTER FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT
NSW SHADOW MINISTER FOR WESTERN SYDNEY
 
ROSE JACKSON MLC
NSW SHADOW MINISTER FOR WATER
 
HUGH MCDERMOTT
MEMBER FOR PROSPECT