This paper examines the complex issue of creating sustainable green systems and protecting biodiversity within the built environment.

The development of the Western Sydney Regional Parklands (WSRP) has been a component of the metropolitan area’s masterplan for many decades. With the residential ‘land creep’ now virtually on its doorstep, it is timely for the WSRP to be formally recognized and developed as Western Sydney’s major open space.

This paper presents data from the second of two community surveys of park use conducted for SUPER Group in 1998 and 2001, which show how urban parks in Sydney successfully cater for demand from all sections of the community.