$3.85 Million Boost for Green Open Space

Applications are open for the latest round of the NSW Government’s Metropolitan Greenspace Program, with Councils across Greater Sydney and the Central Coast encouraged to apply for their share of $3.85 million in funding.

Member for Manly James Griffin said investment in local green spaces will serve the community for generations to come.

“From pedestrian and cycle pathways to new and upgraded parks, this funding will support the delivery of projects that make our neighbourhoods more enjoyable places to live,” Mr Griffin said.

“More and better connected green space means better urban environments for our communities to enjoy right across the Northern Beaches.”

The funding, granted to councils and matched on a dollar for dollar basis, is available for capital works and planning and design works.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said councils will be able to combine the grant funding with unlocked developer contributions to deliver great local green space projects even faster.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has really highlighted the importance of access to quality open space for our health and wellbeing,” Mr Stokes said.

“The latest grant round will prioritise projects that support the NSW Premier’s Priority to increase walkable access to open space in urban areas.”

The funding is part of the latest round of the Metropolitan Greenspace Program that provides funding for councils in Greater Sydney and the Central Coast to support the delivery of projects that improve community access to quality green open space.

Since its introduction by the Greiner Liberal Government in 1990, the Metro Greenspace Program has helped deliver more than 635 projects across Sydney and the Central Coast with $45 million in grant funding.

Applications close at 5pm on 30 September 2020. For more information, visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/mgp