The NSW Government has invited the Rhodes community to have their say on a revised draft plan for the Sydney suburb, which includes more open space, a site for a new local school, greater pedestrian access and more jobs in the area.
The Department of Planning and Environment’s Acting Deputy Secretary, Planning and Design, Brett Whitworth, said the draft precinct plan for Rhodes has been amended, following feedback from the community.
“Community consultation is a vital part of the planning process. We have listened to the feedback received and made improvements to the draft plan to reflect this,” Mr Whitworth said.
“We are delivering what the community wants, with more open space, including a 7800sqm new foreshore park, a promenade along the Parramatta River and greater walkability.
“The draft plan includes a site for a new 1ha standalone local school and improved walkways, to connect residents to public transport.
“Open space improvements include an upgrade to McIlwaine Park, funded by a $5 million grant from the Precinct Support Scheme, which has already been made to council.”
Mr Whitworth said upgrades to the existing train station will mean new homes and jobs can be positioned close to public transport.
“Upgrades to Rhodes Train station under the revised plan include a new east-west walkway connecting the two sides of the Rhodes community and giving existing residents better access to McIlwaine Park.
“We are also exhibiting a new commercial area close to the train station that will bring up to 1200 new jobs to the area over the next 20 years,” he said.
The revised draft plan is on public exhibition for community consultation until 3 February 2019.
“Feedback from the community has shaped the amended plan, and it’s important they can continue to provide their input. I encourage everyone to take a look at the plan and have their say,” Mr Whitworth said.
To view the new draft plan and make a submission, visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/rhodes.