One of the key upgrades planned for South Lawson Park is about to get underway with the first stage of the new accessible path almost ready to be laid.
On Friday, 22 July (7am to 5pm) the park will be fully closed to the public to allow hot asphalt to be laid and around 800m of the path to be constructed quickly and safely along the southern side of the site (weather permitting).
“The decision to close South Lawson Park for one day is a necessary safety precaution and we apologise for any inconvenience caused to park users, especially the local dog walking community,” said Blue Mountains City Council CEO, Dr Rosemary Dillon.
“A one-day closure is the safest and fastest way to see this part of the upgrade work completed. We do anticipate at least one further closure in the future to finish what is more than 2km of accessible path in and around the park.
“Completing the first section of the path will be a big step forward for the South Lawson Park upgrade, especially considering the significant impact that ongoing wet weather, COVID-19 and procurement delays have had on the project.”
A pre-sealing treatment will also be applied along the path route from today (Monday, 18 July). Visitors to the park may notice this material and are advised to not walk on it. It is a little sticky, but not harmful.
The current work follows additional community consultation about the park upgrades in March which showed that a majority of residents support the vision for the park and the current plans and are eager for the project to be completed.
In addition to the path, the current project at South Lawson Park will also provide:
• A fenced dog off leash area
• A nature exploration play area
• Grass terrace seating
• Water refill stations and seating throughout the park, and
• Improved protection of the creek line, swamp and wet areas by extensive bush regeneration.
“I thank the local community for their continued patience and for their insightful feedback during periods of community engagement earlier this year. While there is still much work to be done over the coming months, we are looking forward to delivering a park that balances the needs of a wide cross section of the community,” Dr Dillon said.
“Whether you walk, run, cycle, exercise with your dog, picnic or anything in between, we want to create an environment at the park that everyone can enjoy.”
An extension for the current upgrade is currently being sought from the grant body, to deliver the project by June 2023 given delays due to unprecedented rainfall, as well as additional consultation.
More information is available on the South Lawson Park Have Your Say project page.
The project has been funded under the Western Parkland City Liveability Program, which is part of the Western Sydney City Deal (WSCD). The WSCD is a 20 year-agreement between the Australian and NSW governments, and the eight local Councils of the Western Parkland City.
Photo: Preparations have begun to construct Stage 1 of the shared path at South Lawson Park. The park will be closed on Friday, 22 July to allow asphalt to be laid.
