A new shared user path at Sydenham Park has been unveiled, providing local residents with access to Brimbank’s largest green open space.
The $2.4 million shared user path, includes a lookout, picnic space, seating, new signage and walking trails, creating a destination for walking, cycling and picnicking.
Brimbank council officially opened the new pathway and amenities at Sydenham Park on October 20.
The pathway starts at the Kings Road/Calder Freeway Interchange and connects to a two kilometre walking circuit.
Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said council is looking forward to continuing improvements to the parkland, and developing Sydenham Park as a key destination for Brimbank.
“Sydenham Park is an asset for the whole community and a magnificent landscape steeped in cultural heritage and environmental values,” he said.
“This is another green space for our residents to keep healthy and active, socialise and enjoy our natural environment.”
Sydenham Park is a 231-hectare reserve in Keilor North with inherent environmental, cultural and ecological values. Its distinct landscape includes river valleys with vistas across the Maribyrnong Valley and is home to kangaroos, wallabies, reptiles, birdlife, river animals, native plants and much more.
Sydenham Park is also a place of cultural significance, with council plans currently underway to rename the site to a Traditional Owner name. Council said the Wurundjeri people have been connected to this land for tens of thousands of years, caring for the park’s waterways, land and flora and fauna.
The project was a joint effort from the state government and Brimbank council who each contributed $300,000 and $2.1 million respectively.
The completed shared pathway is part of council’s Sydenham Park Master Plan Stage 1 works. Stage 2 works will extend the path into the valley to the Maribyrnong River confluence. These works are being investigated and will also consider a new access point for cyclists and walkers from Kings Road.
