The NSW Government has worked with councils to unlock $850 million worth of investment in local projects following changes to infrastructure contributions policy.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said 488 community projects had been identified by 15 councils with significant funds across Sydney, the Central Coast and the Hunter.
“We’ve cut red tape to give councils greater flexibility to pool contributions funds and invest them in vital local infrastructure immediately,” Mr Stokes said.
“It means communities from Parramatta to Lake Macquarie and beyond will benefit from new and upgraded roads, parks and public spaces, community facilities and recreation centres.
“It’s all part of the NSW Government’s ongoing work to create a better planning system while ensuring councils step up to the challenge of creating jobs and supporting the state’s economy during the pandemic.”
Projects on the list identified by the 15 councils include:
- Bayside Council: $7.3 million for improvements to Arncliffe Town Centre;
- Fairfield Council: $3 million for the Fairfield showground redevelopment;
- Ku-ring-gai Council: $1.6 million for Stanley Street park in St Ives;
- Lake Macquarie City Council: $4.4 million for the Gymea Avenue and Myall Road intersection upgrade at Garden Suburb; and
- City of Parramatta: $4.8 million for Hill Road and Bennelong Road upgrades, bus shelters and upgrade to Haslam’s Creek Bridge.
“Councils also have access to a range of low cost loans and grant programs provided by the NSW Government which will help them to deliver infrastructure and drive investment to support the growth of local communities,” he said.
