Facelift planned for Parramatta

Community and civic hub, Phive set to open later this year. Picture Ben Williams.

The City of Parramatta is set to spend more than $200 million on important community projects over the next 12 months, including council’s new community and civic hub and aquatic centre.

The council endorsed its Operational Plan and Budget for 2022/23, with $209 million allocated for capital works projects, on top of the $311.4 million to be spent delivering vital services to the community.

Community projects include $33.9 million for the Parramatta Aquatic Centre; $15.8 million for revitalisation of the Town Hall and $6.7 million for upgrades to Charles Street Square.

Lord Mayor Cr Donna Davis said it was important council continued to invest heavily in community infrastructure to support the City’s growing population, as the recovery from COVID-19 continues.

“The pandemic highlighted the important role council plays delivering critical services to our residents and businesses as well as building and maintaining the open spaces and public facilities that our community needs and uses every day,” Cr Davis said.

“Sound financial planning over the past two years has allowed us to put forward a strong capital works program that includes revitalisation of local roads, parks, sport and community centres. This budget is our blueprint for the future so we can flourish and evolve while continuing to deliver a high level of infrastructure and services for our communities.

“The City of Parramatta is rapidly transforming and growing. We need to ensure our city remains a sustainable, liveable and productive place for present and future generations.”

The Operational Plan and Budget 2022/23 is part of council’s Delivery Program 2022-2026, outlining how council will implement its core services, activities, programs, projects, fees and charges, over four years.