Hornsby Shire Council has officially opened the first stage of its long-term transformation of a local former quarry into a new community bushland destination.
The newly-completed Crusher Plant Precinct is the first area of the Hornsby Park project to open and is now accessible to the public, offering a glimpse of what is to come as the wider works continue to be delivered in stages.
Located off Quarry Road, Hornsby, the precinct features the Southern Lookout, which provides sweeping views into the ancient volcanic landscape and former quarry as well as the surrounding bushland. The lookout is fully accessible and gives visitors a striking perspective of the site’s scale, history and natural setting.
The Crusher Plant Precinct takes its name from the former industrial plant that once crushed volcanic rock from the quarry for use across Sydney. The area (pictured, above) has now been reimagined as a tranquil space with lawns, picnic shelters and barbeque facilities.
For more energetic visitors, the recently upgraded Heritage Steps provide a steep and picturesque bushwalk from near Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre down into the Crusher Plant Precinct and beyond to connect to the Blue Gum Walk and the Great North Walk. The restored steps offer another way to experience the park and connect with its heritage and surrounding bushland.
A ribbon cutting was recently held on site with Hornsby Mayor, Warren Waddell, Councillors and Anna Watson MP representing NSW Local Government Minister, Ron Hoenig, to mark the opening of the precinct.
Mayor Waddell said opening the first stage of Hornsby Park was an important step in delivering a long-held community vision.
“This is about opening the gates and welcoming everyone to see what has been achieved so far,” he said.
“Hornsby Park is being delivered progressively, and the Crusher Plant Precinct gives the community a real sense of the scale, beauty and potential of this unique site as it continues to evolve.”
The Crusher Plant Precinct has been delivered with support from the NSW Government through a Stronger Communities Fund grant.
Other areas of Hornsby Park remain under construction and will open progressively as works are finalised. Future stages include the Quarry Loop walking and cycling track, additional scenic lookouts, a bike jump and pump track, and the Old Mans Valley Field of Play.
The Minister for Local Government said the opening of the first stage of Hornsby Park is a proud moment for the Council and local community.
“The new Crusher Plant Precinct offers an exciting snapshot of a remarkable community asset. It’s a testament to what’s possible when the NSW government partners with local councils to deliver high-quality public assets for growing communities,” said Mr Hoenig.
“As our city grows, we’re making sure it grows in the right way – bringing people together, opening up great public spaces, and respecting the character and history that make iconic places like this so special. I congratulate Hornsby Shire Council and everyone involved in delivering this impressive project that will serve communities for generations to come.”
Hornsby Park is located off Quarry Road, Hornsby. The Crusher Plant Precinct, Southern Lookout and Heritage Steps are now open and available for the community to explore.
For more information about Hornsby Park, visit https://hornsbypark.com.au.
