North Sydney Council lashes out at State Government over metro plans

NORTH Sydney Council says it has been snubbed by the State Government in major revitalisation plans for Crows Nest and St Leonards.

Artist’s impression of the planned Crows Nest station. Picture: Supplied

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NORTH Sydney Council says it has been snubbed by the State Government in major revitalisation plans.

Both Crows Nest and St Leonards are in the government’s sights ahead of the rollout of the Sydney Metro rail line.

Planning Minister Rob Stokes last week announced an investigation into revitalising the areas around the planned metro station at Crows Nest and the existing St Leonards station.

But North Sydney Council said in a statement it was “surprised” by the announcement, which had not acknowledged its strategic planning for the area.

Planning Minister Rob Stokes is looking into revitalising Crows Nest. Picture: Martin Lange

Mayor Jilly Gibson said the council had spent several years developing planning strategies for the two suburbs. The plans would allow for growth while maintaining the area’s character.

“We recognise that the State Government will want growth around the new metro station,” she said.

“What we don’t understand is why the government is failing to work with council to deliver this.

“The NSW Government’s announcement fails to acknowledge our strategic plans, which it has partly funded.”

North Sydney Mayor Jilly Gibson. Picture: Adam Ward

The Department of Planning disputed those claims, saying it invited the council to form a planning partnership in August. It says the council wrote back accepting the invitation.

“The department has met with North Sydney Council on several occasions to discuss the council’s St Leonards Crows Nest Planning Study,” a spokeswoman said.

“As part of the planning partnership, the department acknowledges the strategic work councils have already carried out, and we will continue to work in partnerships with the councils.”

The St Leonards area is also covered by Willoughby and Lane Cove councils.

Single-deck trains will run on the metro line. Picture: Peter Kelly

METRO ON TRACK

A row of buildings along the Pacific Highway is set to be demolished for the metro station at Crows Nest.

The line is due to open in 2024 and will link Crows Nest to the city’s rail network.

Crows Nest was ranked last year as Sydney’s most liveable suburb.

It is popular with families and is filled with restaurants.

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