Breathing new life into Castle Hill Showground

The Hills Shire Council has committed $1 million into master planning for the upgrade of Castle Hill Showground.

Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said the study would determine the future of the Showground for the next 100 years and beyond.

“Castle Hill Showground has served the region well for more than 130 years. However, with more people moving into The Sydney Hills and with the construction of the Sydney Metro Northwest, as well as an increase in density around the train stations, this well-loved community asset needs to provide more leisure, passive and recreational opportunities for residents going into the future,” Mayor Byrne said.

“The Master Planning process will look at how we might activate and enjoy this vast open space whilst meeting the needs of a growing population. By opening it up to more community groups, residents and visitors – both now and into the future – we can continue to provide the quality of life that makes The Hills such a wonderful place to live, work and play.

“The Master Planning process will enable Council to identify the best use for a leisure and cultural precinct that will capitalise on surrounding development and be serviced by a high-frequency train line. It will also look at how we can retain the current community groups onsite as well,” Mayor Byrne added.

The Showground is part of the NSW Department of Planning and Environment’s Showground Station Precinct – an area which has been earmarked for growth by the NSW Government as part of their Sydney Metro Northwest Priority Urban Renewal Corridor.

Mayor Byrne said she wanted the Showground to act as a “communal satellite hub”, filled with cultural and leisure facilities.

“The Showground should become a centrepiece for The Hills Shire and its surroundings,” Mayor Byrne said.

“We want the facility to cater for cultural activities, passive recreation and leisure, performing arts, major events, community events and so much more.

“Its proximity to Fred Caterson’s superb offering of many sporting Reserves and facilities nicely complements the culture and leisure vision for the Showground site.

“It would also be great to see a regional playground and water play area included in the design, so that residents can come together, enjoy a picnic and really soak up the family-friendly atmosphere.”