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The draft concept designs for Stages 2 and 3 of the Finlaysons Creek Trail. These stages connect Stage 1 within Shannons Paddock, south to Wentworth Avenue and under the rail line to Wentworthville Library and Community Centre, as well as Lytton Park.
The project will:
- Improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists
- Provide better connections between local and regional destinations through high amenity open spaces and parklands
- Deliver a well lit, accessible shared path
- Create a greener, more attractive creek corridor
Stage 2 of the trail passes through an area that is currently privately owned and is subject to a process that will establish access for the construction of the works and public use of this area. The alignment is proposed as far as practical from existing homes, whilst minimising impacts to trees and flooding. Council is working with the landowners to balance access and privacy.
The proposed Stage 2 alignment balances flooding, impacts to adjacent residences as well as ecology. Approximately 6 trees of medium significance likely to be impacted along with an additional 21 that are a mix of weeds, smaller specimens, or are compromised. The southern half of Stage 2 proposes a section of decked boardwalk to ensure all the high value gum trees that are in good health can be retained. Offset planting at a ratio of 2:1 is proposed with local and native trees and planting prioritized. The Stage 3 alignment is very constrained by engineering requirements and 1 significant tree that cannot be avoided is impacted.
Stage 3 of the project requires removal of 12 parking spaces on Wentworth Avenue to implement statutory ‘No Stopping’ restrictions before and after the proposed crossing. 5 additional spaces west of the crossing will be removed to enable construction of the separated bike path between the crossing and the start of the boardwalk.
The design prioritises the time, safety and amenity of pedestrians and cyclists by including lighting, improved street crossings, new trees and landscaping, as well as retaining as much vegetation and canopy as possible. Where space allows, a majority of the trail provides separate spaces for pedestrians and cyclists to move at their own speed.
Parts of the trail are within flood-affected areas. The design has been developed to minimise flooding impacts and ensure the trail can be used safely.
The boardwalk provides a more direct, enjoyable and accessible connection, avoiding long detours via nearby roads or Wentworthville Station.
Due to the potential redevelopment of the Wentworthville Library and Community Centre, access to the Stage 3 boardwalk under the rail line is provided through the car park. A permanent alternative will be investigated for delivery by Cumberland Council as part of any re-development, with two potential options identified.
An REF will be prepared and exhibited for Stage 3 once the detailed design has progressed enough to identify any impacts and mitigation measures.
City of Parramatta Council is delivering the entirety of the Finlaysons Creek Trail project, including those parts located within the City of Parramatta local government area as well as the parts located in Cumberland City Council. As the project crosses local government areas, this approach ensures a consistent design and delivery process across the full length of the trail. City of Parramatta is working closely with Cumberland City Council and other stakeholders to coordinate planning, design and future implementation.
