Design revealed for new nature trail on Duck River foreshore
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A concept design for a new nature trail set to transform more of Parramatta’s waterways is now out for community feedback.
The Duck River is the most significant north-south watercourse in Parramatta, and beginning at Silverwater Park (Stage 1), the Duck River Nature Trail will enhance the natural green corridor along the Duck River over three stages.
Stage One will improve access to Silverwater Park along the river, with wider shared paths for pedestrians and cyclists, a new dedicated bike path under Silverwater Bridge, bicycle parking, additional bench seating, lighting, a water fountain and additional tree planting.
City of Parramatta chief executive Gail Connolly PSM said the nature trail will provide one of the few north-south protected walking and cycling routes in the Central River City.
“This is one of many landmark projects set to transform Parramatta River which will connect the M4 Shared Path and Parramatta River foreshore paths,” Ms Connolly said.
“Our vision is to share our beautiful natural spaces by improving access for recreation and travel between Silverwater and Camellia with our community.
“More people are walking and cycling around our City – just look at the recently completed Alfred Street Bridge which sees 600 people a day, and our wonderful Escarpment Boardwalk which attracts 2,000 people a day enjoying the paths.”
The transformative project will be delivered over the next four years in three stages and includes:
On the western riverbank:
Almost 1.5km of concrete paths and boardwalks next to Duck River A new walking and cycling bridge over Duck CreekOn the eastern riverbank:
1km of pedestrian and cyclist paths along the streets of Silverwater with priority crossings, lighting upgrades and new street trees More than 1.7km of boardwalk and concrete shared path along the river corridor and in Silverwater Park.Stage Two will focus on improving safety and amenity for pedestrians and cyclists on the streets between Clyde and Silverwater, while Stage Three include plans for a new bridge over Duck Creek and the foreshore paths on both sides.
Local Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis MP said it’s great to see more green spaces for the community to enjoy.
"$28.5 million from the NSW Government for the establishment of the Duck River Nature Trail will make this hidden pocket of natural beauty in Silverwater accessible for the whole community to enjoy."
"This nature trail is a good example of how our government is funding access to green spaces to provide more great spaces for everyone."
The more than $28.5 million project is proudly funded by City of Parramatta and the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants and Get Active NSW program and is set to be opened in three stages between 2026 and 2028.
To view the interactive map and have your say on Stage 1 of the Duck River Nature Trail at Silverwater Park, visit Participate Parramatta.