Hornsby Shire Council has opened the first stage of Hornsby Park, giving the public access to a redeveloped section of the former quarry as work continues on the broader bushland project in Sydney’s north.
The Crusher Plant Precinct, now open off Quarry Road in Hornsby, marks the first completed area of the site and offers views into the former quarry alongside new recreational spaces designed for community use.
The precinct includes the Southern Lookout, which provides wide views across the volcanic landscape and surrounding bushland. The lookout has been designed to be fully accessible, allowing visitors to view the scale and history of the quarry from a central vantage point.
Once an industrial site where volcanic rock was processed for use across Sydney, the area has been repurposed with open lawns, picnic shelters and barbeque facilities. The site retains elements of its industrial past while introducing public amenities aimed at day visitors and families.
Access to the precinct has been improved through upgrades to the Heritage Steps, which link the Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre to the lower sections of the park. The steps connect visitors to the Blue Gum Walk and the Great North Walk, extending walking routes through surrounding bushland.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on site, attended by the Mayor, councillors and Ms Anna Watson MP representing The Hon Ron Hoenig MP, Minister for Local Government.
Mayor Warren Waddell said the opening marked a step forward in a project that has been planned over many years.
“This is about opening the gates and welcoming everyone to see what has been achieved so far.
“Hornsby Park is being delivered progressively, and the Crusher Plant Precinct gives the community a real sense of the scale, beauty and potential of this unique site as it continues to evolve.”
The project has received support from the NSW Government through the Stronger Communities Fund, with further sections of the park still under construction.
Future stages are expected to include a Quarry Loop walking and cycling track, additional lookouts, a bike jump and pump track, and the Old Mans Valley Field of Play.
The Minister for Local Government said the opening reflects collaboration between state and local authorities.
“The new Crusher Plant Precinct offers an exciting snapshot of a remarkable community asset. It’s a testament to what’s possible when the NSW government partners with local councils to deliver high-quality public assets for growing communities.
“As our city grows, we’re making sure it grows in the right way – bringing people together, opening up great public spaces, and respecting the character and history that make iconic places like this so special. I congratulate Hornsby Shire Council and everyone involved in delivering this impressive project that will serve communities for generations to come.”
Hornsby Park remains under staged development, with additional sections set to open as construction progresses. The Crusher Plant Precinct, Southern Lookout and Heritage Steps are now accessible to the public.
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