Is this the most poorly planned park in Australia? Locals lose it over concerning list of errors as they demand to know how much ratepayer money was wasted

By NICHOLAS COMINO, POLITICAL REPORTER, AUSTRALIA Published: 09:36, 9 August 2026 | Updated: 09:36, 9 August 2026 Sydney's newest park has received negative reviews from taxpayers who footed the bill, with many calling the $1.1million project one of the worst-designed recreational spaces the sprawling metropolis has to offer. Yarra Reserve, located in Tallawong in the city's north-west, officially opened this week, and Blacktown City Council encouraged residents to enjoy the new community area. But instead of praise, photos of the park set off a wave of complaints from locals, who say the design failed to provide basic amenities, sufficient safety features, and even shade. Many residents questioned why such a large space included hardly any playground equipment and almost no attractions to encourage families to spend time there. 'All that space and 1/5th is a playground? How much did this cost?? Summer is coming, you have NOT provided any shade structures, seating, BBQ facilities,' one person said. 'Could have had a little dog park in there..... oh nice to see the ONE BIN. Toilets are going to be a problem too by the looks of it.' Others criticised a lack of trees and shade from the harsh western Sydney sun. 'Sooo no fence, shade or trees just a green square... cool.' Residents slammed the lack of shade available in the Yarra Reserve parkland (pictured)  Safety issues were also raised, with parents noting the absence of fencing, the park's proximity to busy roads, and not a zebra crossing in sight. 'Not enough shade and play equipment, also needs a permanent fence on the boundary road side.' Another local agreed the park's location could put children and pets at risk because it is located in one of the fastest-growing population centres in the country. 'The area is extremely busy, not just during peak hours but throughout the day. Hopefully, children and pets stay safe, especially around the entry and exit points where traffic can be particularly busy,' they said. 'I can only imagine the hazards it may be prone to, being a regular commuter to that area.' The park was commissioned by Blacktown City Council using a combination of ratepayer funds and a grant from the federal government. Mayor Brad Bunting, state MP Warren Kirby, and federal MP Michelle Rowland held the official opening on Saturday. The $1.1million project began work in January, and is now open to the public as of August Should taxpayers demand accountability when public places fail to meet community needs and safety standards? What's your view?'As our community grows, our infrastructure and green spaces need to grow with it. Parks like Yarra Park are an important part of building healthy, connected and liveable communities,' Mr Kirby said. Western Sydney is already Australia's hottest major urban region, and experts warn the problem is set to get worse. The NSW Government's AdaptNSW programme expects the region will face around ten more days of extreme heat each year by 2040. The agency says a mix of climate change, Western Sydney's landscape and ongoing replacement of green spaces with housing is intensifying the urban heat island effect. Home to more than 2.5 million, Western Sydney is typically 6C to 10C hotter than other parts of the city during heatwaves. Climate modelling by the NSW Government predicts residents would likely have to deal with an extra 20 days above 35C each year by 2070.