Rezoning proposal sets to build almost 4000 social and private homes in Riverwood
The planning proposal is set to replace the ageing social housing estate with a mix of private and affordable homes, open space and more community facilities. Take a look.
St George Shire Standard
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If a new rezoning plan gets the green light, nearly 4000 homes of private and social housing could be created in the Riverwood area in the next 15 years.
Under a new masterplan proposal from the state government, the rezoning would allow for more open space, greater community facilities, a better-connected street network, improved pedestrian and cycle links, and increases to building heights and housing redevelopment potential.
The proposal is set to transform almost 30 hectares of land in the St George area and is expected to generate more than $2 billion of local investment.
It will mean replacing the estate’s ageing social housing with modern homes as part of a program to renew and improve social housing and provide more private housing in the Canterbury-Bankstown and Georges River local government areas.
The Riverwood estate renewal could create two distinct neighbourhoods that reflect their surroundings.
There could be a mix of social and private housing of the same high-quality design.
The rezoning proposal accommodates a mix of dwelling types, with the hope to encourage diversity and cater to the needs of existing and future residents.
Incoming NSW Land and Housing Corporation Chief Executive Simon Newport said the project would follow on from the neighbouring Washington Park redevelopment, which was located to the north of Riverwood.
“The current proposal for Riverwood would see us deliver a mix of around 3900 new social and private homes over the next 15-20 years, which means there will be a steady pipeline of work for thousands of people across the building industry,” Mr Newport said.
“We want to build on the great success of Washington Park, which in 2017 was transformed into a blended mix of social, affordable and private housing within a beautiful parkland setting.”
Mr Newport said the proposed renewal of the former housing estate goes far beyond just replacing the bricks and mortar.
“As more people choose to call Riverwood home, we will see greater support for local businesses and shops, particularly small businesses, and that will encourage further commercial and retail interest in the region, creating more local jobs,” he said.
“With the feedback taken from our most recent consultation period informing this new masterplan, we’re now able to give the community the opportunity to see how their voice has shaped the vision for Riverwood.
“Importantly, the community will be able to reflect on the masterplan and offer another round of feedback.”
Once the exhibition period closes next month, the Department of Planning will assess the rezoning proposal and then will decide if it will be approved.
If the rezoning proposal is approved, the Land and Housing Corporation will seek a delivery partner to renew the corporation-owned properties, as well as the supporting infrastructure including roads, parks, and community facilities.
From late 2024, development applications will be prepared and submitted.
There will be further community consultation during this process and the first stage of relocation for social housing residents is likely to begin from late 2024.
The first stage of construction could begin in 2026 to 2027.
The Department of Planning and Environment has placed the plans for the renewal of Riverwood estate on public exhibition until 11 September 2022 for the community to consider and provide feedback.
The Land and Housing Corporation will host a series of community events, in person and online, where residents will be able to see the plans and learn more about the rezoning proposal and draft master plan.
To view the draft masterplan, to attend an information session and give feedback, visit: www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/riverwood
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