The government of New South Wales (NSW) has recently announced its decision to rezone a 68-hectare precinct surrounding the Metro North West line at Macquarie Park. This move comes as the government seeks to convert excess commercial land into new residential housing to meet the ambitious housing targets set by the national cabinet. The rezoning is expected to deliver at least 3000 homes within 800 meters of the Macquarie University and Macquarie Park metro stations, providing more housing options for residents.
The main objective of the rezoning plan is to address the worsening housing shortage in Sydney by boosting density along transport routes. NSW Premier Chris Minns has expressed his intention to maximize density along existing metro lines and to utilize underutilized commercial land for residential purposes. This is particularly relevant as the demand for office space has declined following the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the rezoning, developers will have the opportunity to convert existing commercial land into build-to-rent apartments within the precinct. The plan also includes the potential construction of apartment towers ranging from 14 to 60 stories in height. Moreover, the government aims to create more public open spaces, an indoor recreation facility, walking and cycling paths, and proposals for two schools in the area.
While the rezoning of Macquarie Park is separate from other ongoing reforms, it serves as a pilot project for future similar precincts surrounding Metro stations. The NSW Planning Department will lead the rezoning process to ensure successful implementation.
Although the government’s push for higher density is expected to face challenges from local councils, the plan aligns with the goal of providing accessible homes and jobs for the community. Additionally, the government believes that the growth of Macquarie Park has the potential to stimulate the economy and establish the area as a world-class hub for business, innovation, research, and education.
Overall, the rezoning plan in Macquarie Park aims to address the housing shortage by repurposing commercial land into residential housing, boosting density, and creating a thriving community with improved amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of the rezoning plan in Macquarie Park?
The purpose of the rezoning plan is to convert excess commercial land into new residential housing and boost density along transport routes in order to address the housing shortage in Sydney.
2. How many homes are expected to be delivered through the rezoning?
The government aims to deliver at least 3000 homes within 800 meters of the Macquarie University and Macquarie Park metro stations.
3. What are the benefits of the rezoning plan?
The rezoning plan will provide more housing options for residents, repurpose underutilized commercial land, create public open spaces and recreational facilities, and potentially construct two schools in the area.
4. Who is leading the rezoning process?
The NSW Planning Department will lead the rezoning process to ensure successful implementation.
5. What is the government’s broader goal regarding higher density?
The government aims to maximize density along existing metro lines and utilize available land for residential purposes to meet the housing needs of the community and boost the economy.