Approximately 11.1 hectares will be transformed into one of Box Hill ’ s great parklands , making it a central hub for sport and recreation in one of the fastestgrowing suburbs in Sydney . The Hills Shire Council has invested $ 4.9 million into developing the Water Lane Reserve sports complex , and a further $ 9.79 million was received from the NSW Government ’ s Accelerated Infrastructure Fund last year .

This funding will help convert 7.7 hectares of land into a thriving sports complex with two natural turf fields that will be used for AFL in the winter and athletics in the summer .

The fields will be complemented by a children ’ s playground , pathways , a car

park with 201 spots , and an amenities block with accessible toilets , changerooms and a canteen . Mayor Gangemi said Council is proud to invest in facilities that benefit the entire community . “ The Water Lane Reserve will provide muchneeded sporting fields in Box Hill , which is growing daily with new families and people . It will also support grassroots sports and improve our residents ’ health and well-being ,” he said .

In another excellent win for the community , Council has also approved the master plan for the brand-new Rainforest Street Reserve , the second section of the sprawling parkland .

The initial proposal for the 3.4-hectare

reserve , released for public input in May , featured a skate bowl , mountain bike trails , and a large playground . Following feedback from residents , Council has made additional improvements , including more inclusive play equipment and room for a potential splash park in the future . “ The park facilities at Rainforest Street Reserve will be amongst the best in The Hills ,” Mayor Gangemi said .

“ The additional equipment will include a harness seat for the swing and flying fox , alongside several other all-abilities equipment , such as a basket swing , a child and parent-facing swing , playground musical equipment and a multi-person see-saw .

“ Residents can also look forward to the ample grass kickabout play space and the well-laid-out pathways connecting to and within the park .”

Following the adoption of the Rainforest Street Reserve master plan , Council will look to fund the detailed design process in future budgets .

Meanwhile , Council is moving forward with its plans for the Water Lane Reserve with steps towards going out to tender for the construction of the new facility .

“ I am looking forward to seeing these plans unfold for the Water Lane and Rainforest Street Reserves and our residents soon utilising these facilities once they are built ,” Mayor Gangemi said .