The Nepean River will be an even cooler spot to enjoy this summer when the new undercover pavilion and water play at Regatta Park opens tomorrow afternoon.

The 112-metre-long pavilion is the final stage in the Regatta Park project and features a sandpit with slide and diggers, water play equipment, toilet amenities and kiosk.

Regatta Park has been jointly delivered by Penrith City Council and the Albanese and Minns Governments. Each government contributed $7.5 million as part of the Western Parkland City Liveability Program.

The park is a focal point for recreation, leisure and nature on the banks of the Nepean River. It features an adventure playspace, junior cricket oval, outdoor fitness equipment, picnic and BBQ areas, green space, 90-space car park and an amenities building.

A central staircase and pathways lead to the river foreshore, with over-water viewing platforms and kayak launch areas.

Council will seek to award an operator for the kiosk in the new year to further boost the appeal of the park and give people more dining options along the river.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said that thousands of locals and visitors head to the Nepean River every week to be close to nature, to exercise, play, and socialise, making it one of our community’s most important natural assets.

“It’s fantastic to see the appeal of the river boosted even more with the completion of the final stage of Regatta Park, which has been a priority for Penrith City Council as part of the Our River Master Plan," Cr Carney said.

“I’m sure we will see plenty of families and children enjoying the free water play area throughout summer months.

“Regatta Park complements other significant projects around the Nepean River in recent years including the upgrade of Tench Reserve and construction of a new boat ramp, restoration of the historic Police Cottage, and improved pathways.”

Regatta Park was identified as a priority project in Council’s Our River Master Plan, which is a strategic plan to protect and enhance the Nepean River.

Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said this is a great example of three tiers of government working together for the benefit of our community.

“This is fantastic news for our region, with these new facilities on the Nepean River available for use for summer.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the NSW Government has invested $7.5 million towards the Regatta Park project as part of the Western Parkland City Liveability Program.

“The Nepean River is a hugely popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. The completion of the new pavilion will allow more people than ever to sample the many activities on offer beside Penrith’s iconic river foreshore," Minister Scully said.

“Regatta Park is one of 28 sites across the Western Parklands Region to have benefitted from new investment through the Western Parkland City Liveability Program.”

A community event to celebrate the completion of Regatta Park is planned for 2025.

Find out more at: penrith.city/regattapark