Green light for innovative multigenerational community gardens project

LONDON: An innovative multigenerational community gardens project built around a transport hub has been approved.

The project will deliver up to 1250 new apartments, new retail spaces, community facilities, and a plaza adjacent to Macarthur Station, while also revitalising the area’s natural environment.

The approval is a major win for the developer after two development applications that had been submitted to Campbelltown City Council in 2020 needed to be withdrawn due to changes in the Local Environmental Plan.

But Landcom is expected to start work in April 2023 after receiving development approval for a new application they submitted for the Macarthur Gardens North project.

Landcom CEO Alex Wendler said the development would boost housing supply in the area, and would demonstrate excellence in urban design and sustainability.

“Macarthur Gardens North will provide new homes and open spaces, shops and educational facilities close to public transport,” he said.

“A diverse range of housing types, including one, two and three-bedroom apartments, will accommodate the changing needs and demographics of the Macarthur region and provide more opportunity for households to buy their own home.

“Importantly, at least 10 per cent of the apartments will be set aside for affordable rental housing, providing housing security for low-and-middle-income households.”

The capital investment value of the project is $463.17m, and approval for the project was issued by the Sydney Western City Planning Panel.

Mr Wendler said sustainability would also be a key aspect, with the development designed and delivered as a 5-Star Green Star Community certified by the Green Building Council of Australia.

Bow Bowing Creek will also be rehabilitated along with 11ha of open space.

“We will preserve Cumberland Plain Woodland and River Flat Eucalypt Forest, improving habitat for local wildlife and provide easy access to nature,” Mr Wendler said.

Public spaces will feature prominently in the plan with a civic plaza, a playground and terraced area, and a central park.

It will also include a pedestrian walkway connecting to Western Sydney University and TAFE NSW’s Campbelltown campuses.

A shared cycle and pedestrian path alongside Bow Bowing Creek connecting with Gilchrist Oval and other recreational spaces for sport and leisure will also be included.

Earthworks are anticipated to start by April 2023, pending all necessary permits and approvals, followed by civil works and landscaping.

Landcom will consult with the community and the council on plans for the new public spaces at Macarthur Gardens North in early to mid-2023.