We're transforming Parry Park with new wetlands, greener spaces and improved community areas to help protect the health of the Cooks River.
A major environmental improvement project is coming to Parry Park, Punchbowl Road, Lakemba. The project will deliver new wetlands, enhanced landscaping and additional community spaces while helping to protect the health of the Cooks River.
The Parry Park Waterway Health Improvement Project is being delivered by Sydney Water in partnership with Canterbury-Bankstown Council and the Cooks River Alliance, with funding from the Australian Government's Urban Rivers and Catchments Program. Together, we’re working to improve the quality of stormwater entering local waterways while enhancing the park for residents, visitors and local wildlife.
Stormwater from Parry Park flows into Coxs Creek, which connects to the Cooks River and eventually Botany Bay. Urban stormwater can carry litter, sediment, nutrients and other pollutants into waterways. This can affect water quality and ecosystem health. The new wetland system will capture and naturally treat stormwater before it enters Coxs Creek, reducing pollution and supporting healthier waterways.
The project will create new wetland areas, increase tree canopy and expand native vegetation throughout the park. These improvements will provide shade, help cool the local environment and create valuable habitat for wildlife, while enhancing the park's natural character and amenity.
A key feature of the project is creating habitat for the endangered Green and Golden Bell Frog. Once widespread across south-eastern Australia, the species has experienced significant population declines due to habitat loss and environmental pressures. The new wetland environment at Parry Park will support conservation efforts by providing breeding and refuge habitat for this protected species.
The project will also improve pathways and park amenities, making the space more accessible and enjoyable for local residents and visitors. Together, these upgrades will create a more attractive and sustainable park where people can spend time outdoors, connect with nature and enjoy improved recreational opportunities.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2027 and will take about 2 years to complete. We'll make every effort to minimise impacts to park users during construction and keep the community informed as the project progresses.
The project supports the community's long-term vision for Parry Park and builds on the Parry Park Masterplan developed by Canterbury-Bankstown Council through extensive community consultation and engagement.
Sydney Water and Canterbury-Bankstown Council are members of the Cooks River Alliance, a partnership of local organisations who are working with communities to transform the Cooks River into the best urban river in the world.
To have your say visit Canterbury-Bankstown Council's webpage.
The project will:
Construction is not expected to start until late 2027. As planning progresses, we'll continue to assess potential impacts and keep the community informed before work starts. Detailed construction methods are still being developed.
Based on the current concept design, construction may result in:
The proposed improvements for Parry Park are currently on public exhibition through Canterbury-Bankstown Council, and community feedback is now being sought.
The project is in the final stages of planning and design.
The proposed wetlands, environmental improvements and overall layout have largely been developed. We are now completing the final design, environmental assessments and approvals needed before the project can move into construction.
Some details may still be refined as the project progresses. We will continue to keep the community informed and share updates as they become available.
Some parts of the wetlands may hold water all the time, while other areas may only contain water after rainfall.
The final design will balance water quality treatment, habitat creation, safety and public access.
Sydney Water will maintain the wetlands after they are built.
This may include managing vegetation, removing litter and sediment, inspecting the system and doing routine maintenance to ensure the wetlands continue working effectively.
Council will be responsible for maintaining other park amenities available on site.
Everyone can play a part in keeping our waterways healthy. Simple actions can make a big difference:
Anything that enters a stormwater drain can eventually flow into local creeks, rivers, wetlands and beaches, affecting water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Sydney Water help protect waterways through pollution prevention, reducing stormwater impacts and improving river and creek health.
While it may seem helpful, wildlife do not need people to provide food. Feeding birds can affect their health, change their natural behaviour and encourage large numbers of birds to gather in one area. This can result in increased droppings, litter, odours and impacts on park amenities and nearby waterways. Uneaten food can also attract pests and contribute to water pollution.
You can help by enjoying wildlife from a distance, not feeding birds or other animals, disposing of rubbish and food scraps responsibly, and keeping pet waste out of the environment. These simple actions help protect water quality, support healthy wildlife populations and keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
