Plans for a new eight-storey high school in Macquarie Park, a vibrant area in northern Sydney, have been officially announced by the NSW Government. This significant development aims to accommodate up to 2000 students and is expected to open its doors in 2029. The school will feature a range of facilities, including indoor and outdoor sports courts, playgrounds, and even rooftop recreational areas, which will be accessible to the public outside of school hours.
Transforming Macquarie Park
The announcement, made on a Sunday, signals a notable shift from previous plans initiated by the former Coalition government, which had considered a combined primary and high school facility alongside mixed-use residential and commercial developments. The current administration, led by the Minns Labor government, has instead prioritized educational infrastructure in response to the area’s changing needs.
Under the Transport Oriented Development policy, Macquarie Park has been designated as one of eight accelerated precincts. This designation has allowed for the construction of approximately 2000 additional homes around the Macquarie Park metro station, significantly altering the urban landscape and increasing demand for local educational facilities.
As recently as January, local federal MP Jerome Laxale indicated that plans were underway for a comprehensive education campus that would include a new public primary school and a preschool. However, due to size limitations, the decision was made to exclude both from the current site. A separate primary school is currently under construction in Midtown Macquarie Park, but it will not include a preschool, as planning was finalized prior to the introduction of a new policy requiring such facilities.
Future Developments and Community Impact
The establishment of the new high school is also set to impact the high school catchment areas in the vicinity. A spokesperson for the government noted that adjustments to zoning typically occur on an annual basis, but specific details regarding the new catchment areas have not yet been disclosed.
Construction is scheduled to commence next year, following the submission of detailed plans to a designated team within the Department of Education. Additionally, the government plans to display these plans for public review, ensuring transparency and community engagement in the development process.
With the new high school, Macquarie Park is poised to strengthen its educational offerings, further enhancing its appeal as a mixed-use community. As the area evolves from its industrial roots, the addition of this facility will play a crucial role in meeting the needs of a growing population.
