Sydney population changes between 2005 and 2015 show big developments north and south west

New data from the ABS shows population growth is biggest in the north west and south west suburbs.

The Pacific Highway leading in to Hornsby May 2015

Ku-ring-gai has added more than twice as many people as Hornsby over the past 10 years, new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows.

Hornsby is home to some of the least-populated suburbs in Sydney, with Galston fielding just 28 people per square kilometre and Dural and Wiseman’s Ferry 48, while Hornsby/Waitara (2976) and Wahroonga/Warrawee (1433) packed more in 2015.

Cherrybrook has one of the most stable populations in Sydney, with just a half a per cent increase (120 people) on its total residents (25,837 people) over three years to June 30, 2015.

Cherrybrook Residents Association president Vince del Gallego said more people and congestion in a suburb caused a loss in the “sense of community” and schools become crowded.

“With all the developments happening in the area, there’s a big risk of our community standards being degraded,” Mr del Gallego said.

“We don’t want ghetto-style suburbs around our area.

“If high-density residential developments are not properly planned, then you will end up with a congested community and concrete jungles.”

Hornsby state Liberal MP Matt Kean said Sydney was expected to add 2 million people by 2031. “All local government areas have to grow and Hornsby is no different,” Mr Kean said.

“We need a diversity of housing choice across our shire. That’s why we have a housing strategy produced after extensive community consultation.”

The Pacific Highway entrance to Hornsby in November 2007. Image: Google Streetview.

The Pacific Highway leading in to Hornsby in May 2015. Image: Google Streetview.

Hornsby Council said the areas of growth are proof their housing strategy was working.

Growth areas are focused around commercial centres and infrastructure — including Asquith, Hornsby, Waitara, Beecroft, Epping and Carlingford.

Berowra, Brooklyn and Cowan are not targeted for development because there is not sufficient infrastructure for growth.

There is also a risk of bushfires in those areas.

Population Growth 2005-15 in Hornsby:

Hornsby added 11.1 per cent to its population and 8352 people between June 2005 and June 2015.

Ku-ring-gai added 17.1 per cent more people or 17,990 new residents.

Hornsby/Waitara grew 18.9 per cent with 5191 new residents.

Asquith and Mt Colah grew about 6 per cent with 1148 more people.