A proposal for simple and strict rules that provide upfront transparency for the community and speed up construction of warehouses in the Moorebank Intermodal Precinct is on public exhibition for community feedback.
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’s Executive Director of State Policy and Strategic Advice, Felicity Greenway said the proposed changes would set clear rules around what work on the Moorebank site needs development approval.
“The Moorebank Intermodal Precinct is a jobs driver for NSW. It’s expected to generate around $11 billion in economic benefits and create approximately 6,800 jobs over its lifetime,” Ms Greenway said.
“Detailed plans for the precinct have already been approved by the Independent Planning Commission, but individual planning approvals have been needed each time the applicant wants to build a new warehouse or other facilities related to the operation of the precinct.
“There’ll be a lot of activity on the site in coming years. This proposal will simplify the process and provide upfront transparency for the community about what is and is not allowed.
“We’re proposing strict traffic and height rules that must be met before any development can be undertaken.”
The proposed changes include allowing:
- Building or upgrading warehouses and distribution centres if they meet the strict criteria;
- Minor works like fences, lighting and landscaping without the need for planning approval; and
- Loaders, unloaders, cargo handling facilities, conveyor systems and cranes that meet all required standards.
Ms Greenway said the proposed rules will help get the precinct up and running faster to take heavy traffic off the roads, boost industry and the economy, as well as improve transparency by letting people know upfront what is allowed.
“The intermodal will receive freight that comes from Port Botany via rail and transfer them to the logistics centres in Sydney’s south-west via the Southern Sydney Freight Line,” Ms Greenway said.
“More freight moving by rail means less containers on the roads, which will ease pressure on Sydney’s road network. It will also support Port Botany, which is expected to see the freight moving through it more than double in the next 10 years.”
The proposed changes are currently on exhibition for community feedback until Monday, 27 September 2021.
