Several build-to-rent projects in Sydney’s west have received development approval despite one of them being at significant risk of being flooded, as the NSW planning department prioritises new rental housing over potential residual costs down the line.

The BTR push in Parramatta, Sydney’s “second CBD” in its western suburbs, coincides with the Minns government’s push for more housing around public transport hubs – the first tranche was announced on Monday – to help ease the state’s chronic housing supply and affordability crisis.