A master plan provides a strategic long-term vision or framework for how an area could change in the future. It is a design report outlining infrastructure options and considerations that would guide and inform any future changes. Whilst a masterplan does not have legislative weight, it is an important first step providing the foundations for collaboration and funding. The Iron Cove Creek Masterplan outlines possible improvements to the Iron Cove Creek corridor and considerations for providing a path for walking and cycling, more natural habitat and places for people.

Following advocacy by the Friends of Iron Cove Creek, Council resolved to prepare the Iron Cove Creek Masterplan to explore the provision of a walking and cycling path along Iron Cove Creek canal between Ashfield Aquatic Centre and the Bay Run. On 13 April 2021 Council resolved the following:

• Notes Friends of Iron Cove Creek advocacy and community support for a pedestrian/cyclist link along Iron Cove Creek from Liverpool Road to the Bay Run, via the Ashfield Pool and:
• Includes the Iron Cove Creek link in the Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan & Cycling Strategy and prioritises implementation through grants, developer contributions and the budget process; and
• Commence the capital works project by funding a Dobroyd Canal Iron Cove to Ashfield Shared Path Masterplan in 2021/2022, which outlines the proposed program of works, investigates the feasibility of the proposed works and prioritises the delivery of the work

The Friends of Iron Cove Creek community group has provided advocacy and community support throughout development of the draft Masterplan, and in November 2022, Council sought community feedback to inform the draft Masterplan. The Masterplan supports strategic directions outlined in Council’s Community Strategic Plan Our Inner West 2036, and the Inner West Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) as well as the NSW Government’s Sydney Green Grid.

View the initial engagement here.

The draft Masterplan divides the corridor into six precincts each with different characteristics and opportunities, and outlines opportunities and considerations to explore the following:

• Make it safer and easier to walk and cycle in the local area and between popular recreational facilities
• Improve connections to local streets, parks and recreational facilities
• Unlock access to the Iron Cove Creek corridor on land owned by Sydney Water and Inner West Council
• Make it easier to cross Parramatta Road for people walking and bike riding
• Provide more trees and habitat and places for people