CASTLE Hill’s Showground Station precinct is now capable of accommodating an extra 4,500 potential new homes following an amendment to The Hills Local Environment Plan (LEP).
The precinct previously had a cap of 5,000 dwellings imposed when it was rezoned in 2017 due to a lack of supporting infrastructure.
Planned transport and other upgrades are in place or progressing, with Sydney Metro now in full operation and upgrades around the station, including road improvements, now complete.
The Department of Planning and Environment will continue to work with School Infrastructure NSW to plan for schools in the area, and to address any additional demand expected in the Showground precinct because of the lifting of the cap.
Development applications and approvals are approaching the 5,000 limit – however, now that the cap is removed, the area could welcome 9,500 new homes.
The introduction of the Government’s reformed infrastructure contributions scheme on 1 October 2023 provides a framework for growth to contribute towards further infrastructure demand and will allow funding for any additional infrastructure as required.
Removing the dwelling limit provides certainty for industry to continue investment in the precinct and removes uncertainty impacting current $115-120M contract negotiations by Sydney Metro and Landcom with a development partner.