Penrith City Council has officially opened a new local kayak launch deck, with Australian Olympic and world champion slalom canoeist, Jessica Fox OAM, on hand to get a first look at the structure.
The Council says residents and visitors will have a new way to enjoy the Nepean River with the opening of the deck on River Road in Leonay, between Buring Avenue and Urbane Street.
The launch deck is the first to be built on the southern side of the M4. Its prime location on the western riverbank offers kayakers closer access to the stunning Nepean Gorge, a popular and picturesque destination for paddlers on the Nepean River, said Penrith Mayor, Todd Carney.
“Since it was identified as a priority in the Our River Masterplan (2013) we’ve been working hard to deliver projects that improve our connection to the Nepean River,” Mayor Carney said.
“With the support of the Australian and NSW Governments we’ve already delivered kayak launch decks as part of the Regatta Park Upgrade, along with the Tench Reserve boat ramp, viewing decks on both sides of the river and fishing platforms.
“Our existing launch decks at Tench Reserve and Regatta Park are already popular and this new facility in Leonay is another step towards improving our connection to the Nepean River and supporting people to have an enjoyable river experience.”
In addition to the new launch deck which includes an upper and lower platform, the project has also delivered a boardwalk to the water’s edge and access path connecting to the existing footpath on River Road.
This project was jointly funded by Council and NSW Government, with the Council securing a $250,000 grant under the NSW Government’s Boating Now Program to go towards delivering the project.
“This addition to Penrith is a result of the collaborative work of the NSW Government and Penrith City Council to make it the hot-spot and tourist attraction that it deserves to be,” said Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM.
“The new accessible launch deck will allow for people of all ages and skills to access the river, making it something that the whole family can use with safety and comfort.
“I’ve been excited to work towards the development of the Nepean River, both during my time as a councillor and now as the state member, it’s great to see projects like these delivered for our community, just in time for the summer heat.”
To find out more about the project, visit yoursaypenrith.com.au/launchdecks.
