Leura Cascades’ upgraded walking track has reopened, almost 100 years after becoming the first illuminated site in the Blue Mountains.
Blue Mountains City Council Mayor, Mark Greenhill said the project, which included works to reinstate lighting to a section of walking track and Chelmsford Bridge, celebrated the area’s heritage while delivering a safer, more resilient walking experience.
“Leura Cascades is one of the Blue Mountains’ most treasured places,” Mayor Greenhill said.
“These improvements protect its history and natural beauty while creating better connections to Chelmsford Bridge, the Prince Henry Cliff Walk and the Grand Cliff Top Walk.”
The upgrade includes:
- Renewal of 200 metres of track, including steps and landings;
- Restored feature lighting at the base of Chelmsford Bridge;
- Under-rail lighting to the Meeting of the Waters;
- A new footbridge across Leura Falls Creek;
- Improved drainage and all-weather access;
- New seating, signage and water refill stations.
Leura Cascades became the first illuminated scenic site in the Blue Mountains in 1932, allowing visitors to walk as far as Bridal Veil Falls at night.
Nearly 100 years on, Council has relit a small part of the walk as far as the Meeting of the Waters, but now with lighting levels and hours of operation limited and designed to suit site conditions.
The track upgrade follows extensive improvements to the upper car park and picnic area completed last year.
Chelmsford Bridge and Leura Cascades Recreational Reserve were recently added to the NSW State Heritage Register in recognition of their significant cultural and landscape heritage.
The $5 million Leura Cascades Recreational Precinct upgrade is funded by the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
For more information visit: https://www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/leura-cascades.
