The state government’s Housing Delivery Authority has recommended the approval of a significant development plan for Wentworth Point, proposing the construction of two 50-storey apartment towers. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the last undeveloped area of Wentworth Point, which is recognized as Australia’s most densely populated postcode.
After years of debate involving the local council, community groups, and the developer, Billbergia, the project is set to contain approximately 1,200 apartments across both towers. The proposal deviates significantly from the existing zoning regulations, which permit only two towers of 16 and 25 storeys, potentially limiting the development to around 300 apartments.
Controversy Surrounding Infrastructure Needs
The journey to this recommendation has been fraught with contention. Since 2016, control over the development decisions has shifted between the City of Parramatta and the Department of Planning. The site, currently occupied by aging red sheds, has faced criticism from local residents and leaders who argue that the peninsula is already overwhelmed by inadequate infrastructure.
Key complaints center on the limited access points to the area, primarily through the congested Hill Road, as well as the distance to the nearest train station at Rhodes, which is a 20-minute walk away. The Parramatta light rail project, which will eventually serve the suburb, has not yet commenced construction, leaving many community members concerned about the impact of additional residents on existing facilities.
Parramatta MP Donna Davis has publicly expressed her disapproval of the development. She emphasized the importance of local residents having a voice in the decision-making process. “Block H has been the subject of speculation for a long time, and it’s disappointing that no clear decision on the planning approvals for the Homebush Bay West development control plan were made by the council,” she noted.
Developer’s Commitment and Next Steps
The recommendation from the Housing Delivery Authority was a crucial step for Billbergia, allowing the company to move forward with its plans. To gain approval for the increased height beyond existing zoning limits, Billbergia will provide 5% of the apartments as essential worker housing, alongside commercial spaces and a childcare facility.
Rick Graf, the development director for Billbergia, stated that the Housing Delivery Authority’s recommendation signifies progress. The project will now undergo a “rigorous merit assessment process” to evaluate its compliance with planning and community needs. Graf highlighted the necessity of demonstrating the capacity to deliver more housing than was previously proposed to secure this pathway.
This recommendation is not the first for the site; a previous suggestion was made in August 2023, which was deferred by Minister Paul Scully, who emphasized the need for enhanced affordable housing commitments given the significant increase in proposed dwellings.
In a bid to address community concerns, Billbergia has committed to maintaining a free bus service between Wentworth Point and Rhodes train station. This service, which is expected to cost the developer approximately $23 million, will continue until the light rail service is operational in 2032.
As the Housing Delivery Authority’s recommendation proceeds through the assessment phases, the future of Wentworth Point remains in focus, balancing the need for housing with the infrastructure capabilities to support its growing population.
