Major pathway gets a green light in the City’s west

Connectivity is set to further increase around Parramatta with Council endorsing the plans for a major pedestrian and cyclist spine that will provide a long-awaited connection between Toongabbie, Westmead and the Parramatta Aquatic Centre.

Running alongside the Main Western Railway line, the proposed new pedestrian and cyclist paths will allow people in the west of the Parramatta area to more easily connect with the CBD, train stations, schools, parks and other regional walking and cycling paths.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber is passionate about providing better access for everyone in the City of Parramatta.

“Parramatta is moving on up with the best pedestrian and bike paths,” Cr Esber said.

“In recent weeks, we’ve announced the raised crossing at Brodie Street in Rydalmere, the next stage of the Alfred Street project connecting the M4 to the river, construction funding for the first stage of the Finlaysons Creek Nature Trail in Shannons Paddock, as well as a design grant for paths connecting Doyle Ground with a local school in the City’s north.

“Now the City’s west is getting its share of pathways. Rather than always jumping in the car, walking or riding outside in the fresh air is great for physical and mental health.

“With the Parramatta Bike Plan we will have plenty more pathways for pedestrians and cyclists over the next few years, connecting the north, south and west to our CBD.”

The draft Toongabbie to Westmead pedestrian and cyclist corridor was on public exhibition with thousands having the opportunity to comment. A quick poll found an overwhelming 79 per cent of respondents supported the plan, with only 8 per cent opposed.  

This corridor was initially identified in the 2017 Bike Plan and is also included in the updated Parramatta Bike Plan 2024, recently adopted by Council.

The Toongabbie to Westmead Pedestrian and Cyclist Corridor Study was funded by the NSW Government’s Get Active NSW program.