The Cooks River Catchment Map

To understand where you’re going, sometimes you need a map. We’ve partnered with Urban Spectra to create an interactive map of the Cooks River Catchment.

This easy-to-use catchment map effectively creates a 24/7 planning and reporting mechanism, increasing visibility for the public and providing information, accountability and tracking for decision makers.

Open the full map tool HERE>

Towards A Catchment Wide Masterplan

There has been no shortage of plans to improve the river over the years, however works have often been piecemeal and progress has been slow. We know we need a new approach to accelerate change and attract the investment the Cooks River needs. This map is the first step in the creation of a catchment-wide masterplan, which is due to be completed in late 2026. 

The Cooks River Integrated Master Plan is not ‘just another plan’ for the river. It will bring together all of the plans and proposals onto an innovative, interactive map. Most importantly, the Master Plan will refresh the vision for the river and will clearly articulate our shared roles and responsibilities. The development of the Master Plan will be driven by three key pillars:

Healthy Waterway
We will make sure our investment decisions improve the health of the Cooks River catchment and support the species that the community has identified as “iconic” to the river.

Recreation Destination
We will grow the Cooks River as a recreation destination, with paddling at its core.

Country and Culture
We will celebrate the diversity of the people and places within the Cooks River catchment.

Collaboration with Urban Spectra

The Map was created for the Cooks River Alliance UrbanSpectra, a studio building data-driven mapping and urban analysis software for cities with a vision. UrbanSpectra was founded by Jake Coppinger, a full stake engineer who brings a digital-native approach to understanding and improving cities, with great respect for direct observation and community engagement. 

The project was funded by the NSW Government through the Clean Waterways Election Commitment.