The City of Parramatta is set to invest over half a billion dollars in the coming year, focusing on vital services and infrastructure to enhance the community. This ambitious plan includes funding for a new community recycling centre, regional cycleway at Finlaysons Creek, various park upgrades, and the development of Granville Town Square.
The City’s budget for 2024/25 stands at $535 million, with a significant $195 million allocated for capital works, resulting in a $6 million operating surplus. According to City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber, maintaining a balanced budget while addressing the needs of local businesses and residents is crucial.
“Parramatta is on track to become Western Sydney’s only global city by 2050,” said Cr Esber. “This budget continues our investment in transformative projects, such as redeveloping Riverside Theatres into a top-tier performing arts centre that will bring Broadway-quality shows to our City.”
The budget also caters to current community needs, with plans for improved swimming facilities, enhanced sports amenities, upgraded parks and public spaces, better footpaths and cycleways, and the establishment of a new community recycling centre.
Shaped by community feedback, this budget ensures that Parramatta remains an ideal place to live, work, and conduct business. Cr Esber highlighted that the Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan feature an updated waste strategy and a stronger commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
“Building a sustainable city is a priority,” Cr Esber added. “This includes the rollout of our new Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service and a commitment to a 5% annual reduction in carbon emissions, aligning with our long-term goal of a 60% reduction by 2038.”
Additionally, the plan addresses household financial pressures by capping domestic waste charges for the next three years and offering a one-off $50 rebate for residential ratepayers. To support these initiatives, a recommended 5.1% rate rise by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) will be implemented.
Key capital works projects for the upcoming year include the modernisation of amenities at Max Ruddock Reserve, upgrades to Lake Parramatta Swimming Area, improvements to Doyle Ground Sports Facility, and the redevelopment of Epping Pool. Other notable projects are the Finlayson’s Creek Regional Cycleway, Duck River Nature Trail, and the transformation of Rydalmere Bowling Club into a multi-purpose community facility.
With these comprehensive plans, Parramatta is set to secure its position as a thriving, sustainable, and community-focused city.
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