Parramatta’s residents are being called upon to participate in shaping the future of the Church Street North Precinct. The City of Parramatta is currently seeking public feedback on a set of newly proposed development controls, following state government changes implemented through a State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) last year. These changes aim to facilitate the introduction of new housing for hundreds of individuals while maintaining the unique heritage qualities of North Parramatta.
The draft development control plan (DCP) has been prepared by the council to guide new constructions within the precinct. This initiative comes in response to the NSW Government’s modifications to planning regulations, aiming to address the pressing need for housing in the region. The DCP focuses on ensuring that any new development harmoniously integrates with the historical context of the area.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Councillor Pierre Esber emphasized the importance of community input in finalising these controls. He noted the significant potential of the Church Street North Precinct to provide much-needed housing options in the heart of the city. “With a new light rail stop planned right on their doorstep, these 1800 new homes will offer residents easy access to key employment hubs like the CBD and the Westmead Health and Innovation Precinct,” Cr Esber explained.
The Lord Mayor also highlighted the collaborative effort between local and state governments aimed at addressing housing shortages across the state. “Parramatta is thriving, and by focusing on transit-oriented development, we are working to meet the growing demand for residential spaces where people can live and work effectively,” he stated.
This initiative represents an opportunity for Parramatta to demonstrate how contemporary development can be aligned with heritage preservation, thereby setting an example for other regions facing similar challenges. The council, by introducing these controls, hopes to create a precedent for blending modern infrastructure with historical elements effectively.
The revised planning controls were first reviewed by the NSW Government in October 2022 as part of a broader state-led rezoning initiative. These controls are crucial for guiding the approval process for future developments in the precinct, ensuring that growth is sustainable and sensitive to the existing cultural and historical landscape.
Residents who wish to express their views on the proposed DCP can do so by visiting the Participate Parramatta website or by attending a consultation session at PHIVE in Parramatta Square. Feedback is being accepted until 5 pm on Monday, 27 May 2024.
This period of consultation offers a valuable chance for the community to have a direct impact on the future look and feel of Church Street North. By engaging with this process, locals can help ensure that the development not only meets the urgent housing needs but also enriches the community’s connection to its heritage.
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Residents of #Parramatta are invited to shape the future of Church Street North Precinct through feedback on proposed #development controls. The initiative aims to balance #housing needs with heritage preservation. 🏘️🏛️🤝🏙️ #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/oKTjf1amOs
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