The community is being encouraged to guide future plans for Sydney's Orchard Hills, with a discussion paper on exhibition until mid-December 2022.
The Department of Planning and Environment's Executive Director Planning & Land Use Strategy Catherine Van Laeren said the discussion paper provides an overview of Orchard Hills in terms of its local context, existing land uses, opportunities, and constraints.
"The four-week exhibition period will enable the community to have early input in the planning process and marks the beginning of an ongoing conversation with the community," Ms Van Laeren said.
"No one understands the area better than residents and local stakeholders, which is why it's important we hear directly from the community before we prepare a draft Precinct Plan.
"The discussion paper has been informed by initial analysis, with further studies under way to help better understand the land and environment of the area, as well as what infrastructure – including roads, parks, and schools – is important to the current community, and what will be needed for those who will call Orchard Hills home in the future."
Ms Van Laeren said precinct planning and the potential rezoning of Orchard Hills could deliver thousands of new homes, as well as shops, infrastructure, and open spaces for the area – all designed around access to a new metro station set to be opened in 2026.
"This is a state-shaping precinct, which will capitalise on significant planned investment by both the Commonwealth and NSW Governments, and we look forward to incorporating the public's input into these plans," she said.
The release of the discussion paper follows the recent appointment of Professor Roberta Ryan as the Independent Community Commissioner to guide the future planning of Orchard Hills. The role, which is independent of government, is to help the community understand the planning process – including the discussion paper – and what any proposed changes may mean.
Following the discussion paper, a draft Orchard Hills Precinct Plan is expected to go on public exhibition in the new year, and the community will again be invited to have its say.
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