Councils in Greater Sydney and the Central Coast are being invited to apply for a share of $4 million in grants to build more parks, playgrounds, walking tracks and restore local bushlands.
The Metropolitan Greenspace Program 2024-25 is available to 34 councils for projects such as shared pedestrian and cycle pathways as well as open space strategies and master plans for future works.
Established in 1983 by the Wran Labor Government, the Metropolitan Greenspace Program is the longest running open space grants program in NSW.
Since 1990, more than $56 million has been provided for 680 projects.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said the funding will support the NSW Government’s planning reforms as we unlock more homes and deliver supporting community infrastructure and green space.
“The NSW Government is fast-tracking the delivery of more homes, and these residential areas will need to be supported by more parks and green spaces,” said Mr Scully.
“The Metropolitan Greenspace Program helps councils provide more of these facilities where people can relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
“The program has a strong track record of increasing and improving open space to create thriving places and connected communities.
“I encourage eligible councils to apply for the next round of funding so they can build more high-quality green spaces for their residents and visitors alike.”
Last year, the program awarded $3 million in funding supporting better access to open spaces for more than 31,000 homes within a 10-minute walk from residential areas.
A panel of experts will assess applications against selection criteria designed to ensure funding is awarded based on merit and impact.
Applications for the 2024-25 round of the Metropolitan Greenspace Program opened today and close on 31 March.
For more information on the Metropolitan Greenspace Program visit https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/plans-for-your-area/infrastructure-funding/metropolitan-greenspace-program.
