Hornsby town centre: Hornsby Shire Council releases draft masterplan

Hornsby is set for a colossal transformation, with an ambitious masterplan set to deliver 4500 new homes and create 5000 new jobs by 2036.

An ambitious masterplan to revitalise Hornsby, paving the way for thousands of new homes and jobs, has been released in a push to transform the suburb into a “thriving destination” of Sydney’s upper north shore.

The draft plans, endorsed by Hornsby Council, would see residential towers featuring 4500 new homes and 5000 new jobs created by 2036.

The proposed transformation would also deliver a new library and multipurpose community centre, revamped transport hub and a second pedestrian link across the rail corridor, as well as the opportunity for a hotel and seniors housing at Hornsby RSL.

The masterplan is for Hornsby CBD, which includes Westfield Hornsby, businesses located along George St and Bridge Rd and, to the south, Hornsby RSL and businesses along Peats Ferry Rd, William St and Dural St.

In a statement, Hornsby mayor Philip Ruddock said the draft masterplan outlines a strategy to revitalise the area.

What it could look like … artist impression of Hornsby town centre.

Artist impression of Hornsby Square.

“Hornsby is the heart of the Shire where thousands of people live, work, learn, shop, and relax,” he said.

“It’s our major transport hub … (and) we’re excited that our new masterplan outlines a framework to revitalise and elevate its town centre, transforming it into a thriving destination.”

Artist impression of Cenotaph Park.

Artist impression of Jersey Street community plaza.

There are also plans for a network of green communal spaces in the town’s centre, including a new town square next to Hornsby Mall (near the water fountain), a new park on the corner of Burdett and George St, an expansion of Cenotaph Park and a new plaza in Jersey St.

“By concentrating future development in the Hornsby Town Centre, we can revitalise it and meet our long term dwelling targets set by the state government which in turn makes sure we can better protect our local neighbourhoods and the bushland setting of our Shire,” Mayor Ruddock said.

After being unanimously endorsed for public exhibition at the most recent council meeting, The Hornsby Town Centre Masterplan will be placed on public exhibition until September 30.