Waterfront Park

Overview

Waterfront Park is an inviting open space on the Pyrmont waterfront, featuring a playground, BBQ facilities, open grassy areas, and harbour views. Although the park has some accessible pathways, several barriers make it challenging for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility to fully access and enjoy the area.

Accessible Parking

There is no dedicated accessible parking directly next to Waterfront Park on Bowman Street. However, accessible parking is available near Pirrama Kiosk and Pirrama Park, providing a more practical option for wheelchair users.

Step-Free Access

Direct access from Bowman Street is limited, as there is no clear step-free route into the park. The Pirrama Kiosk and Pirrama Park area is the most practical entry point. From there, wheelchair users can take a ramp to the waterfront walkway and follow it to the ramp leading up into Waterfront Park. However, this ramp is fairly steep and may be difficult for some wheelchair users.

Internal Pathways

The internal pathways are mostly smooth, sealed, and easy to navigate, allowing wheelchair users, mobility scooter users, and families with prams to move around the park. However, some areas are separated from the waterfront by grass, so there is no direct accessible route from these sections to the water.

BBQ Facilities and Playground

The park offers BBQ facilities, seating, and open green spaces. However, the BBQ area is not fully wheelchair accessible due to a small raised brick edge. The playground is also not inclusive, as most equipment cannot be accessed or used by children who stay in their wheelchairs.

Toilets

Public toilets are located near Pirrama Kiosk and Pirrama Park, although not directly within Waterfront Park. This offers a nearby option for visitors following the recommended access route.

Public Transport

Bus stops near Pirrama Kiosk and Pirrama Park on Pirrama Road provide public transport options for visitors. For wheelchair users, this area is the recommended access route, as it combines accessible parking, nearby public transport, and toilets, all connected to the waterfront walkway.

Recommended Accessible Route

Pirrama Kiosk or Pirrama Park → accessible parking or bus stop → waterfront ramp → waterfront walkway → ramp into Waterfront Park.

This is the most practical route for wheelchair users. The Bowman Street entrance is less suitable due to the difficulty of accessing the park from street level.

Summary

Overall, Waterfront Park has several accessible features, especially its sealed pathways and the alternative access route from Pirrama Park. However, challenging access from Bowman Street, steep ramps, limited accessible play equipment, and an inaccessible BBQ area mean that accessibility is still limited.