A massive new multi-use park set to become a recreation hub for Sydney’s booming north-west is nearing completion, with residents eagerly awaiting its official opening later this year.

Blacktown City Council is putting the finishing touches on the 20-hectare Ken Birdsey Park at Schofields, a major community project designed to cater for sport, fitness, family recreation and outdoor leisure.

The park is expected to become a key destination for locals of all ages, offering everything from organised sport to walking tracks, playgrounds and picnic facilities surrounded by natural green space.

Recent works have included the laying of turf across the multi-use sporting fields, which will feature four soccer fields and two cricket ovals once completed. A modern pavilion has also been installed, complete with a canteen, community room and covered outdoor picnic area to support sporting groups and community gatherings.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the project would provide much-needed recreational space for the rapidly growing Schofields community.

“Ken Birdsey Park will be like a second backyard for the people of Schofields and surrounds, who love getting out and enjoying where we live,” Mayor Bunting said.

“It’s a big challenge serving our booming community, so I am glad Council is providing another place for residents to play and be more active, more often.

“I hope to see everyone at the opening celebration later this year.”

Beyond organised sport, the park has been designed with families and outdoor enthusiasts firmly in mind. Landscaped green areas, barbecue facilities and picnic tables will provide the perfect setting for weekend gatherings and relaxed afternoons outdoors.

Children are expected to flock to the huge 2,500sqm playground, which will feature a wide variety of interactive and adventure-based equipment. Planned attractions include a nature trail, pipe slides, “little diggers” sand play area, trampolines, swings and a timber pole climbing zone.

Fitness lovers will also benefit from a dedicated outdoor exercise area equipped with workout stations, while a 2.6km shared pathway winding through the park will cater for walkers, joggers, cyclists and skaters.

Council is also undertaking rehabilitation works along First Ponds Creek and nearby environmental conservation zones, helping preserve the natural beauty of the area while creating a greener, more inviting public space for residents to enjoy.

To help reduce pressure on surrounding streets, additional parking facilities are also being included as part of the development.

Ken Birdsey Park forms part of Blacktown City Council’s broader commitment to ensuring residents in Sydney’s north-west growth corridor have access to high-quality recreational facilities and open spaces comparable to other parts of Sydney.

The venue has been named in honour of Schofields Cricket Club life member Ken Birdsey, a respected local identity known for his passion for cricket and his long service as both a player and umpire.

The project has also received support from both the Australian and NSW Governments, with assistance coordinated through Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland and Member for Riverstone Warren Kirby.

Residents can follow construction updates and opening information via the Blacktown City Council website.