Wilton land rezoned for housing

Wollondilly Council has slammed the NSW Government’s decision to rezone Wilton’s south east precinct today.

Artist’s impression’s of Wilton New Town.

• Wollondilly wants Wilton to be a ‘great town’

Wollondilly Council has slammed the NSW Government’s decision to rezone Wilton’s south east precinct today.

The rezoning paves the way for the start of the proposed development of the Wilton New Town, precinct which is eventually planned to increase the shire’s population by 50,000 people.

The decision paves the way for the start of Wilton’s development.

In a statement. council said Planning Minister Anthony Robert’s decision was premature.

“Council has serious concerns with the lack of an adequate infrastructure plan and a number of other crucial planning matters that are yet to be resolved,” the council says.

“Council is frustrated that despite numerous submissions over the past six years, the NSW Government’s 20 year State Infrastructure Strategy released last month failed to identify a public transport solution to Wilton New Town.

NSW Planning Minister Anthony Roberts. Picture: Paul Braven

“Council is also concerned that the NSW Department of Planning and Environment has not committed to identifying and integrating land for a hospital in the not yet finalised Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Plan or demonstrated how local employment will be generated.”

Wollondilly Mayor Judy Hannan said the decision was disappointing.

“This decision is very disappointing and will consign Wilton to a future as a dormitory, car-dependant satellite suburb of Sydney reliant upon employment opportunities outside the Shire for many years,” she said.

“Council’s vision for Wilton has been clear and consistent from day one and it’s disappointing that after six years of planning the NSW Government has not demonstrated how critical infrastructure and local jobs will be delivered.”

At its Monday meeting, Council was to consider a report calling upon the NSW Government to defer any decision on Wilton New Town until critical public transport, education and health infrastructure issues are resolved.