Vision for ‘10-minute city’ at 2 Macarthur Drive, Holsworthy, revealed

Plans are in the works to transform a vacant southwest Sydney lot into a thriving town centre, where residents would be able to walk to all basic necessities within 10 minutes. Here’s how it would look.

Artist’s impressions of the proposed $184m development. Picture: Plus Architecture

Holsworthy has been touted as the state’s next “10-minute city”, with plans in the works to transform a vacant lot into a thriving town centre featuring 298 apartments, a two-storey pub and a gym.

The vision would transform the southwest Sydney suburb’s town centre into a place where residents are able to access all basic necessities within a 10-minute walk.

Holsworthy Shopping Centre Pty Ltd has lodged plans with Liverpool City Council, proposing to build three apartment towers, ranging from four to 11 storeys tall, at 2 Macarthur Dr, Holsworthy.

The $184m plans include one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, which would be constructed at the site next door to Holsworthy train station.

Planners have described the proposal as “consistent with the strategic direction for development within Holsworthy”, saying it will be positive both socially and economically for the community.

There would be three apartment towers, ranging in height. Picture: Plus Architecture

“The development will deliver a high-quality town centre for the local community, offering well-located housing with convenient access to services and existing public transport infrastructure,” planners said.

In addition to the apartments, the plans include a two-level, mixed-use commercial podium featuring a gym, medical centre, retail and business premises.

There would also be standalone two-storey pub, which could include a ground floor outdoor seating area, sports bar and gaming area, as well as indoor and outdoor dining options.

The proposed development would be beside Holworthy train station. Picture: Plus Architecture

Planners state the proposal will create a “transit-oriented centre at Holsworthy”, anchored by vibrant retail and commercial spaces.

“This will contribute to a dynamic and vibrant Holsworthy town centre, fostering a lively community atmosphere and enhancing the area’s appeal as a hub for both residents and visitors,” planners state.

They also describe the vision for the 10-minute walkable city as aligning with the state government’s Greater Sydney Region Plan to manage the planned growth of western Sydney.

“The plan states that Greater Sydney is growing and that by 2036, the NSW Government will need to deliver over 725,000 new homes for an additional 1.36 million people, and places for 817,000 additional jobs,” planners said.

Revelations of the new $184m plan follow the completion of initial excavation work on the site, which was originally intended for a retail centre, 15 years ago.

The proposal is currently on public exhibition.