Walka Water Works Limited to Walks & Picnics

If you’re around the Maitland area, you’ll probably notice the signs to Walka Water Works. The site has now been partially reopened but read on to find out what is available.

This picnic and recreation area has always been a favourite with local families and was a great spot for a family day out.

Walka Water Works was originally built in 1887 to supply water to Newcastle and the Lower Hunter Valley. The area has since been restored and preserved and is now registered with the New South Wales State Heritage Register. 

However, the site was closed in February 2022, when widespread asbestos contamination was discovered.

However, there is now a partial reopening of the site but it’s pretty limited.

The partial reopening of the site has restored access to:

• Entry via Pumphouse Road (foot or bike only) or Scobies Lane
• The walking trails throughout the site
• The car park and toilet block

The remainder of the Walka Water Works site remains closed to the public and will be reopened in a staged approach as Council works in partnership with Crown Lands to complete remediation works.

The playground is closed (barbeques and playground area have been fenced off) with regular site assessments to ensure its safety before reopening.

You can still visit Walka Water Works for a walk and / or a picnic in certain areas of the reserve.

The public is welcome to picnic within areas of the site that have reopened without risk but bring a picnic rug or your own chairs. Many of the picnic tables in the site fall within the closed areas and are unavailable.

PARK INFORMATION

Address: 55 Scobies Lane Oakhampton Heights NSW (five minute drive from central Maitland)
Hours: 7 Days a Week 7am to 5pm Daylight Saving 7am to 7pm.
Cost: Free admission.
Public Toilets: Yes
Water Fountain: Yes
Picnic Facilities: Picnic tables and park benches – limited
BBQ: Yes – limited
Café Nearby: No
Website: Maitland City Council