Plans have been announced for a new eight-storey high school in Macquarie Park, a key area in Sydney’s north. This development aims to serve up to 2,000 students and is scheduled to open its doors in 2029. The school, located at Lachlans Line, will feature both indoor and outdoor sports courts, playgrounds—including rooftop facilities—and will allow public access to its recreational spaces outside school hours.
Government’s Shift in Planning Strategy
The unveiling of these plans by the NSW Government signifies a substantial shift from earlier proposals made by the previous Coalition government. Initially, plans included collaboration with private developers to create a mixed-use site comprising primary and high schools alongside residential and commercial offerings. However, the current administration, led by the Minns Labor government, has redefined the area’s zoning to facilitate faster development.
Under the Transport Oriented Development policy, Macquarie Park has been designated as one of eight accelerated precincts. This new zoning allows for the construction of approximately 2,000 additional homes around the Macquarie Park metro station compared to earlier plans.
Federal MP Jerome Laxale had recently informed constituents that the state government was considering the establishment of a Macquarie Park Education Campus, which would include a new public primary school and preschool. However, this proposal has changed, with the government opting not to include a primary school or preschool on the new site due to space limitations. Instead, a new primary school is currently under construction in Midtown Macquarie Park, although it will not feature an attached preschool, as planning occurred prior to the implementation of the new policy.
Impact on Local Education and Community
The introduction of this high school will adjust the catchment areas for existing high schools in the vicinity. Although a government spokesperson declined to provide details on the new zoning, they noted that such adjustments typically occur on an annual basis.
Before construction can commence next year, the government will need to submit detailed plans for the school to a dedicated team within the Department of Education. Additionally, these plans will be made available for public viewing, allowing community members to engage with the project before it moves forward.
The Macquarie Park high school promises to play a vital role in the ongoing transformation of the area, offering educational facilities that align with the growing residential population and enhancing community resources.
