A popular access point to Royal National Park is closed due to construction work at John Paul Retirement Village in Heathcote East.
Many bushwalkers enter the park from this location, which is a dirt car park off Wilson Parade, on the other side of the train line to McDonald’s.
The East Heathcote Trail starts at that point, leading to the Engadine Lakes Trail.
Public access to the Royal National Park remains available in nearby streets.
- Sydney Trains
A resident, who contacted the Leader, questioned whether “they really have to cut off the park entrance?”
“Did the council consider bush walking access, mountain biking, any community engagement?” he asked.
Sydney Trains owns the land and says it allows it to be used for “informal access” to the park.
“Residents were advised of the work through Sutherland Shire Council’s normal consultation process and any disruption will be temporary and minimal,” a Sydney Trains spokesman said.
”Public access to the Royal National Park remains available in nearby streets.”
A council spokeswoman said, if Crown land was involved, he builder would have simply sought approval from the state government for temporary occupation.
