Western Sydney’s ‘Pondi’ beach is set to open this weekend as temperatures continue to soar.
The locally-beloved swimming spot is set on private lands previously used as a quarry, requiring the New South Wales state government to negotiate its opening date every year.
Premier Chris Minns and his government have faced criticism from the opposition and media over the last week about the site’s ongoing closure as temperatures hit record highs in Penrith in the city's west, which is routinely 10 degrees hotter than the city’s east.
However the artificial lakeside beach colloquially referred to as “Pondi” is set to re-open on Saturday.
The Minn's government said it has invested $2.5 million to fund amenities and staffing this year, with learn to swim classes, a sunset cinema, beach volleyball and an education program run by Sydney Zoo ready to go.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said the continued operation of Penrith Beach “is about equity.”
“A place like Penrith Beach is critical for the people of Western Sydney,” Car said in a statement.
"Hundreds of thousands of Western Sydney locals showed up and enjoyed Penrith Beach last year, and I cannot wait to join them for another summer season.”