Homebush TOD Precinct Announcement

Published on 25 November 2024

For immediate release

25 November 2024

The NSW Government has announced the rezoning of the Homebush Transport Oriented Development (TOD) Precinct today after having placed the masterplan on exhibition during July-August this year. The Homebush TOD accelerated precinct will come into effect on Wednesday 27 November 2024, and involves rezoning to allow for high and mid-rise homes in the Precinct.

This project includes changes to Strathfield’s Local Environmental Plan 2012 such as amendments to permissible height of buildings and floor space to accommodate increased residential supply. The Homebush precinct, located north of Homebush Train Station, will have an estimated capacity for 18,000, with additional open space along Powells Creek and near the Bakehouse Quarter, which is in the Canada Bay local government area.

“Whilst Strathfield Council supports the creation of mixed-use development around public transport stations with the aim of creating vibrant and walkable communities, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for what is best for our local community”, said Strathfield Mayor Cr John-Paul Baladi.

“It is disappointing to see Strathfield local government area is expected to provide more housing than anywhere else in the State, yet not receive any funding for the delivery of open space. Council will need up-front funding to help plan, design and build a naturalised Powells Creek and open space which integrates water sensitive urban design so that the impacts of the proposed development, on the important coastal wetlands habitats in Mason Park are minor in nature. Mason Park is home to critically endangered ecological flora communities and fauna including birds that migrate from as far away as Siberia.”

“Council has a number of other concerns such as the lack of connections between North and South Homebush to allow residents to walk or cycle safely to Homebush Station; the inclusion of required community infrastructure such as schools, news roads, drainage and detailed open space design; and improvements to key connection routes such as the Arthur Street and Centenary Drive intersection and Parramatta Road.”

“An increase in dwellings, not only in the Homebush precinct but also in Sydney Olympic Park and Burwood North, needs to take into consideration the critical local and community infrastructure needed to accommodate the increasing population and we will be advocating to the state government on behalf of our community.”

“The lack of funding or plans for infrastructure and amenities in the proposal show that the Government, in an attempt to meet their own targets, are rushing these plans without any foresight. Funding is required to ensure infrastructure is delivered prior to people moving into the precinct and will provide good long term legacy outcomes for an area located within the heart of Greater Sydney”, he said.

Strathfield Council remains committed to delivering the objectives of the TOD Program whilst continuing to advocate for support from the NSW Government for liveable and sustainable neighbourhoods being established as part of this program. Council will be working with developers and the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to refine local design issues, minimise construction related impacts and deliver quality open space.

ENDS

For media enquiries, please contact:

Ayla Karabulut

Strathfield Council

9748 9604

media@strathfield.nsw.gov.au