Priorities fortheNorthern SydneyRegion 2014 Regional Organisation Regional Priorities Northern Sydney 2014 -2016 of Councils

www.nsroc.com.au

2014 Regional Organisation Regional Priorities Northern Sydney 2014 -2016 of Councils NORTHERN SYDNEY Contents

1 Introduction 4

2 Summary 6

3 Regional Snapshot 8

4 Strategic Planning Hierarchy 12

5 Regional Priorities 15

Regional Priority 1: Better manage urban growth 15

Outcome 1A Better mechanisms for resourcing community infrastructure 16

Outcome 1B Clearer centres hierarchy for effective planning 18

Outcome 1C Better recognition and support for local transport solutions 20

Outcome 1D Effective tools to ensure key workers, young people and ageing 22 residents can live in the region

Regional Priority 2: Improved service delivery 25

Outcome 2A: Increased efficiency through regional cooperation in delivering key services 26

Outcome 2B: Sustainable funding for local government services and operations 28

6 Projects supporting regional priorities 30 Acknowledgements References 43 Prepared by Alan Cadogan of Urbanac urbanac.com.au in collaboration with Janine Ricketts, Executive Director of NSROC. Urbanac acknowledges the contribution of the many people across all of the NSROC Councils for their time and information in contributing to this report, and in particular the General Managers of each of the seven member Councils of NSROC. October 2014.

Copyright This work is copyright.

NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 Richard Quinn President NSROC Mayor of Hunter’s Hill Council

1 INTRODUCTION

NSROC’s Regional Priorities 2014-2016 captures Community infrastructure provision is The third theme relates to shared learning important and shared views of the seven local a key theme and action governments of the Northern Sydney Region. Its purposes are to ensure that the priorities of In the delivery of public infrastructure there NSROC, as a regional alliance operating since member Councils are clearly articulated inputs into is always a tension between the reasonable 1986, reflects the ongoing commitment of Northern State policy and to encourage dialogue amongst expectations of developers and land owners to Sydney Councils to regional cooperation with the all stakeholders in Region’s future growth and achieve the highest and best use of their land aim of achieving new efficiencies of scale and prosperity. assets, and the needs of communities for a range scope. There is a clear opportunity for NSROC to of less profitable, but nevertheless essential, increase regional cooperation for the benefit of our The Northern Sydney Region is significant to the land uses and facilities that support community member Councils and their communities both in the social and economic dynamic of Sydney and NSW. wellbeing. Local government has a substantial role immediate future and as and when emerging local The communities served by the seven NSROC in identifying community needs and preferences and government structures are implemented. Councils make a major contribution to NSW through using its regulatory role to ensure the right balance investment, employment creation, workforce is struck. NSROC Councils support local government reform participation and their active presence in the social that will enhance their capacity to deliver greater and political life of the State. Our region creates and Genuine partnership is the second emerging efficiencies and improved service quality to their sustains innovative businesses, provides a sought- theme in this plan communities. The results of the reform process after residential environment and offers a unique should be to give local government the authority physical environment for the enjoyment of the Local government is well placed to inform programs and capacity to establish local needs, set priorities, whole Sydney community. for integrating new infrastructure into existing develop implementation plans, work together as centres to make sure the investments made appropriate, and deliver outcomes. This high-level plan aims to ensure that we can work for property developers, local businesses effectively communicate our needs and goals to and surrounding communities. It is important that This Regional Priorities plan will be used to ensure our partners in State and Federal Governments and communities get the most from their infrastructure that the priorities of member Councils remain work collaboratively to achieve them as we continue and that expenditure is carefully applied. This can a key input into State policy development, and to grow. As local government continues to work only be achieved when local government’s roles and to encourage further and ongoing cooperation with the NSW Government to ensure that future activities in relation to community infrastructure and between Councils.

governance structures are robust and effective all urban place management are integrated from the 2014-2016 NSROC Regional Priorities parties must work hard to ensure that the ongoing outset into metropolitan and sub-regional planning business of governing remains our pre-eminent and decision making. focus.

There are a number of themes that have emerged from the consultation process undertaken to prepare Richard Quinn this plan.

4 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 5 2 SUMMARY

The Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Within our two regional priorities are identified Regional Priority 1: Regional Priority 2: Councils (NSROC) is a voluntary organisation of priority outcomes for the region. Each outcome Better Manage Urban Growth Improved Service Delivery local government established to provide strong local represents a critical issue to be addressed if the government leadership; to work co-operatively for region is to meet its growth projections, which are Outcomes: Outcomes: the benefit of the Northern Sydney Region; and to based on Sydney’s broader public good, while at effectively advocate on agreed regional positions the same time retaining the quality of life of our A. Better mechanisms for resourcing, community A. Increased efficiency through regional and priorities. The member Councils are Hornsby, communities. They are issues NSROC cannot solve infrastructure cooperation in delivering key services Hunter’s Hill, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, North Sydney, under a business-as-usual approach. They require Ryde and Willoughby. new collaborations, reforms and partnerships B. Clearer centres hierarchy for effective planning B. Sustainable funding for local government between levels of government, the community and services and operations. The Northern Sydney Region is an economic C. Better recognition and support for local transport business. powerhouse for Sydney and NSW. Its economy solutions generates close to $54 billion per year, employing This plan aims to ensure that we effectively D. Effective tools to ensure key workers, young over 350,000 people in over 70,000 businesses. communicate our challenges and goals and people and ageing residents can live in the This prosperity is underpinned by essential public test ourselves to measure progress against the region infrastructure. With strong growth in the region, outcomes as we move into the future. estimated to add an additional 25% to its current population of close to 590,000 in the next 20 years, In the discussion in this report, each outcome has that infrastructure is becoming increasingly stressed attached actions which we believe will help to and the region’s productivity is at risk. achieve the outcomes. They are the starting points for the new approaches and solutions we are This Regional Priorities plan sets out the priorities advocating in this plan. agreed by Councils across the region and the actions needed to enhance performance against The Northern Sydney Region is an economic them. The plan highlight opportunities for further and ongoing regional cooperation between member powerhouse for Sydney and NSW. Its economy Councils, to encourage efficiency in the delivery of Council services through regional collaboration generates $54 billion per year, employing over and to reflect the greater certainty that now exists arising from the Local Government Integrated 350,000 people in over 70,000 businesses Planning and Reporting Framework. It highlights the policy areas in which new solutions must be found and richer partnerships forged so that the identified outcomes can be achieved.

Our two priorities are drawn directly from our core function as local governments:

1. To better manage urban growth, and

2. To deliver improved services.

6 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 7 3 REGIONAL SNAPSHOT Population There were 589,317 people living in Northern Sydney in June 2013, up by 9,034 from the The Dharug, Cammeraygal, Kuringgai, Darkingung previous year. The region is again experiencing and Wallumedegal Aboriginal people lived in the significant growth, with the population increasing 1 NORTHERN SYDNEY AT A GLANCE Northern Sydney Region for thousands of years 28,654 between 2006 and 2011, or 5.6%. This is before European settlement, which dates from set to continue with targets for the next 20 years 589,317 estimated resident population (Jun-12) 1792. Major population growth took place in the of 56,000 new dwellings, equivalent to 130,000 Population Approx 700,000 estimated resident population expected in 2031 1880s and 1890s, spurred by the opening of railway residents3 . lines, with villages growing up around the railway stations and many market gardens and orchards Northern Sydney’s demographic profile shows a established. The opening of the Sydney Harbour slightly lower proportion of very young people and Employment 354,121 people work in NSROC region Bridge prompted further expansion in the 1920s and a higher proportion of persons who are over 60 1930s. (20%), compared to Sydney. The largest growth groups in the age structure between 2006 and Businesses 70,673 registered businesses The most significant population growth occurred 2011 were during the 1950s and 1960s. The population has increased gradually since the early 1990s, rising • Empty nesters and retirees (60 to 69) Largest by employment: Professional, Scientific and Technical Services from nearly 460,000 in 1991 to about 540,000 in (62,544) 2011. Much of the recent growth has been from • Parents and homebuilders (35 to 49) Industry Largest by value added: Professional, Scientific and Technical Services urban consolidation, particularly high and medium • Young workforce (25 to 34) ($8.16 billion) density housing development in mixed use areas, with some redevelopment of former industrial sites. Largest by output: Financial and Insurance Services ($15.93 billion) • Babies and preschoolers­ (0 to 4) Most growth in the last two decades has been in Willoughby City, Hornsby Shire, the City of Ryde and Headline Gross $53.66 billion the North Sydney Council area. Regional Product 11.7% of New South Wales’s Gross State Product

Area 700 square kilometres

Open Space2 63 square metres per person average

Changes in age structure between 2011 and 2006: - 85 and older (+2,106 persons) - 60 to 69 (+8,645 persons) Demographic - 50 to 59 (+2,641 persons) Change - 35 to 49 (+4,408 persons) - 25 to 34 (+3,715persons) - 0 to 4 (+3,229 persons)

1 Data used in this section is from NSROC Region Economic and Community Profiles: www.nsroc.com.au by id consulting 2012-2013 figures unless otherwise indicated 2 Source: NSROC State of the Environment 2010-2011, p54

8 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 3 Housing targets, Draft Metropolitan Strategy for Sydney to 2031 9 Economy Infrastructure Employment per week, 14%), compared with 24% and 18% respectively for Sydney. Northern Sydney is a major driver of the economy of Northern Sydney is served by a network of major The region is a net importer of workforce, Sydney and NSW despite having a land area of only roads including the M1 Sydney-Newcastle Freeway, accounting for over 40,000 jobs. In 2013 the At the time of the 2011 Census, over 18,000 1% of the State and less than 8% of its population. the M2 Motorway, the Pacific Highway, the Gore Hill resident workforce (all those in full-time or part- residents reported needing assistance with core It produces $53.7 billion in gross regional product or and Warringah Freeways. time work, not necessarily in the region) was activities, an indicator of demand for aged and 11.7% of the State’s output on the same measure estimated to be 311,181 while there were 354,121 disability services. Close to one-third of these were (30 June 2013), a measure that has been increasing The region has good rail connections through the jobs located in Northern Sydney. These jobs aged 85 and over. in step with population growth since 2010. North Shore, Northern and Newcastle & Central represent 10% of the total employment in NSW. Coast railway lines. There is stronger public Around 70% were full-time jobs. Analysis of voluntary work for an organisation or There are 70,673 registered businesses in Northern transport use by the region’s population for the group in the NSROC Region in 2011 shows that Sydney. By number of enterprises, Professional, journey to work, reflecting the good transport Local employment is growing, but slower than jobs there was a higher proportion of people (22%) who Scientific and Technical Services is the largest connections to the Sydney CBD provided by rail growth for NSW as a whole. Around 44% of the reported performing voluntary work than Sydney group, followed by Financial and Insurance Services. and bus services. This still leave more than half the region’s working residents travel outside the area (15%) population using a car to travel to work. Around to work, which contributes to transport challenges In 2012-13 the key sectors for jobs in the region 44% of the region’s working residents travel outside in road, bus and rail. Unemployment generally sits Another indicator of caring work is the proportion of were in: the area to work, a major contributor to transport under the Sydney and State averages. the population who provide unpaid care, which was capacity constraints for road, bus and rail services. 10.7%, a similar proportion to that reported across • Professional, Scientific and Technical Services The Professional, Scientific and Technical Services Sydney. (59,630) Northern Sydney has two major public hospitals sector is the largest category of employment in (Hornsby-Ku-ring-gai and Royal North Shore), two the region in terms of full-time equivalent jobs, • Health Care and Social Assistance (36,374) major private hospitals (Sydney Adventist and providing jobs for close to 60,000 people. The next Housing The Mater) and numerous smaller day surgeries, largest categories are health care and construction. • Construction (25,256) allied health and aged care facilities. Major retail There are around 220,000 households in Northern centres include the Chatswood CBD, Macquarie There were more professionals in the Northern Similar contributions of around 20,000 jobs each Sydney (2011), up by over 10,500 since 2006. 36% Centre, the North Sydney commercial and retail Sydney in 2011 than any other occupation are made by Retail Trade, Education and Training, are couples with children and 25% are couples area and large shopping centres at Hornsby, Top (94,468 people) or 35% compared to 27% in Information Media and Telecommunications and without children, both higher than Sydney as a Ryde and Chatswood, with a number of smaller Sydney. Professionals, managers and clerical and Manufacturing. whole. centres. NSROC features several tertiary institutions administrative workers together account for 68% of the workforce resident in the region, compared to Professional, Scientific and Technical Services also (Macquarie University Australian Catholic University, Northern Sydney has a higher proportion of one 42 % for the State. contributed the highest share of industry value add, TAFE NSW - Northern Sydney Institute and the person households and of larger households (4 generating $8.2 billion in 2012-13. Information, Ku-ring-gai campus of the University of Technology person or more) than Sydney. The proportion of all media and telecommunications, and financial Sydney) and numerous public and private schools. properties that are lone person households is 25%, services were the next most productive sectors in Community Characteristics compared to 22% for Sydney. that year. The region’s main industrial employment lands are located in Artarmon, Asquith, Chatswood, Dural, In 2011, 37% of the population was born overseas, Analysis of the types of dwellings in the region Greenwich, Lane Cove West, Macquarie Park, North Businesses in the region generated about 7% of the slightly higher than for Sydney as a whole (34%). in 2011 shows that 56% of all dwellings were Ryde and Thornleigh. State’s exports in 2012-13. Just over a quarter of the region’s population (27%) separate houses (122,555); 16% were medium comes from countries where English was not their density dwellings (34,710) and 28% (61,533) were In 2013-14 there was more than $5.2 billion first language. The largest non-English speaking high density dwellings, compared with 59%, 20%, in building approvals in the region, including country of birth was China, where 5% of the and 21% in Sydney respectively. 75% or $3.9 billion for residential buildings. The population, or 28,154 people, were born, compared total residential and non-residential approvals to 3% for Sydney. In Northern Sydney 65% of householders own or are represented 19% of total NSW building approvals paying off their dwelling, compared to around 62% in that year, which is generally consistent with the Northern Sydney has a highly educated population, for Sydney. The proportion renting increased slightly region’s share since 2007-08. with 45% of the resident population having a degree between 2006 and 2011 to 28%. In 2011 12% of or higher qualification compared to 28% for the residents were making high mortgage payments State. Overall, 60% of the population aged 15 and of $5,000 or more per month, double the share of over hold post-school educational qualifications. those in this category for Sydney. The largest group of householders repaying their homes are paying Northern Sydney has a larger proportion of high- between $3,000 and $4,000 per month, which is income households (those earning $2,500 per week also true for all Sydney. or more, 36%) and a lower proportion of low- income households (those earning less than $600 10 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 11 4 STRATEGIC PLANNING HIERARCHY Our regional priorities are the focus of the NSROC’s u Actions activities, the prism through which we determine resource allocation and the way we express what Our actions are activities that contribute to In developing the Northern Sydney Regional that will contribute to moving the region forward the Organisation is there to do in support of its achieving the outcomes. They may be advocacy Priorities, we have applied a strategic planning through collaboration and cooperation, both member Councils and their residents. positions, joint projects between Councils, hierarchy to the information sourced from Councils’ between local governments and between levels of partnership actions with NSW agencies. non- Community Strategic Plans and from senior Council government. NSROC priorities are to assist and support its government organisations, the private sector or officials. The aim is to create a roadmap for actions member Councils to better manage urban growth other regional groups; or individual Council actions and deliver improved services. on behalf of the group, such as pilot projects or new policy proposals. Outcomes: for each priority a small number of target results are expressed, to show what we Vision are trying to achieve within each priority. In other Effective engagement amongst Northern Sydney words, what success will look like. Councils to improve service delivery and quality of life in our region

Our vision expresses what we want to do as a in Northern Sydney. The Vision represents the regional group. Our vision is to engage across broadest expression of the purpose of the Regional the group of local governments in ways that are Organisation of Councils. effective in improving services and quality of life

Priorities Better manage urban growth Improved service delivery

3 Housing targets, Draft Metropolitan Strategy

12 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 13 5 REGIONAL PRIORITIES Regional Priority 1: Better manage urban growth Effective engagement amongst Northern Sydney Councils to improve service delivery and quality of life outcomes for our region Effective tools Better mechanisms Better recognition Clearer centres to ensure key for resourcing and support for hierarchy for workers and ageing community local transport effective planning residents can live infrastructure solutions in the region

Develop shared policy positions Better manage between local and State Advocate for the inclusion of Implement the NSROC Develop improved planning regional ageing priorities Improved service delivery and coordination tools to governments on the character community transport as part of urban growth and function of Northern metropolitan transport planning implementation plan’s provide public and community initiatives in housing choice infrastructure Sydney’s centres and their and investment complementary roles across and affordability the region

Better mechanisms for resourcing Increased efficiency through regional community infrastructure cooperation in delivering key services Reform transport regulations so Advocate for improved Actively encourage the that a sustainable business model disposal processes for surplus specialisation of centres as for micro-transport services can NSW Government land that Develop an affordable housing part of a regional economic be established, based on cost policy for the Northern Sydney take a strategic view of local development and employment recovery and more flexibility Clearer centres hierarchy to enable region Sustainable funding for local government community needs with priority growth strategies in allowing contestability with effective planning services and operations for community infrastructure existing services

Better recognition and support Develop a plan for a regional Develop an integrated regional for local transport services Develop improved open space and community infrastructure Redesignate Chatswood as a cycling network for northern information strategy for acquisition models in built-up Regional City in recognition of Sydney in partnership with the services available to enable areas of metropolitan Sydney its role in northern Sydney NSW Government focused on people to age well in their local providing safe access to centres communities Effective tools to ensure key workers, young people and ageing residents can live in the region

Ensure that the Regional Youth Develop improved policies and Advocate for a transparent Strategy includes initiatives to operating guidelines to make policy framework linking address the need for housing it easier to access and share transport infrastructure and in the region that is suitable for existing facilities and open centres development young people, especially those space at risk of homelessness.

14 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 15 Outcome 1A Better mechanisms is by default excluded from disposal programs for ‘surplus’ publicly owned properties. Many such Better mechanisms for resourcing community infrastructure Essential facilities should be managed under surplus properties are in close proximity to centres a funding model that has an equitable balance where new residential and jobs growth is being between the contributions of the development directed and where Councils’ Local Environment The challenge of increased population in The limits of development contributions sector, existing ratepayers and new residents. Plans have established a strong case for the centres location of such services. Development contributions charged on new As costs of development increase, local The region is delivering increased housing numbers development are designed to contribute to government must look to a variety of contributions u Actions in support of the current Metropolitan Strategy for supporting community infrastructure necessitated and funding sources to deliver the infrastructure for Sydney. Similarly, employment growth has been by the development. They must be spent on new which it is responsible. A compounding problem to 1 Develop improved planning and coordination strong and will continue to be significant, with a infrastructure and not on augmenting existing the challenge of sourcing funds is that community tools to provide public and community minimum of 22,000 new jobs expected by 2021 infrastructure or on maintenance. infrastructure typically adds ongoing operational infrastructure in partnership with development and at least 39,000 by 2031 for the proposed North cost without any significant ongoing revenue and to avoid extended lags between demand Such contributions are not a sufficiently stable subregion. stream. and supply of facilities and services. source of income for Councils to factor into planning, With population growth expected to occur mainly as the peaks and troughs in the development sector Tools to assist Councils manage and fund renewal 2 Advocate for improved disposal processes through higher density developments in and around are not within the control of local government. and enhancements of these centres should be for surplus NSW Government land that take a existing centres, significant local government energy Governments must also strike a balance between explored. strategic view of local community needs with and resourcing is directed to upgrading the services setting a price that reflects the cost of providing priority for community infrastructure. This may that support these existing retail, commercial and infrastructure but that is not so high as to create a Some of these include additional planning tools include incorporating community uses into site industrial centres. Compounding this challenge, blockage that prevents development occurring at all. and rating options, such as business levies. These redevelopment or transferring surplus lands to community infrastructure needs to be in place in have been applied at various centres internationally, the care and control of local government for The NSW Government has capped developer time to support increased population so that urban often as Business Improvement Districts. These community use. and social quality of life is maintained. contributions under Section 94 of the Environmental can provide a means of funding the reinvigoration of Planning & Assessment Act. This cap does not existing centres, whilst also devolving a degree of 3 Develop improved open space and community Enhancing existing infrastructure can be more recognise the vast difference in land costs, autonomy and control over centres directly to the infrastructure acquisition models in built-up cost-efficient than building new facilities, but more infrastructure costs and developer returns in local businesses that operate there. areas of metropolitan Sydney, working with the time-consuming due to the related consultation different areas, or the different challenges for infill NSW Government. and approval processes. Local government also development compared to green field sites. This The adaptation and renewal of surplus public faces significant challenges in place management approach is resulting in gaps in the provision of new land can also offer opportunities for increasing 4 Develop improved policies and operating of existing centres due to their disparate ownership infrastructure in the Northern Sydney Region, which capacity for community uses. State and Federal guidelines to make it easier to access and share structures. has high land values and major business districts agencies generally dispose of surplus land existing facilities and open space, for example with complex access needs. with a view to maximising short-term financial school halls and ovals, working with NSW There are also significant difficulties in acquiring return. Such analysis typically undervalues the Government agencies. appropriate lands for community infrastructure long term advantages to reducing government purposes. This is partly due to the lack of availability services outlays through investment in community of suitable sites, particularly in centres, but also infrastructure. This means community infrastructure due to the Region’s high land values, which make acquisitions prohibitively expensive and disposal of surplus public land through the open market attractive to government agencies.

4 Final Report of the Independent Local Government Review Panel, Revitalising Local Government, Independent Local Government Review Panel, October 2013, page 50.

16 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 17 Outcome 1B There can also be undesirable competition between u Actions existing centres as market conditions differentially Clearer centres hierarchy for effective planning impact on development profitability, and significant 1 Develop shared policy positions between local risks to staged infrastructure planning and and State governments on the character and investment when uses shift. This can be seen at function of Northern Sydney’s centres and their Growing Established Areas More detailed centres policy centres such as Chatswood and Macquarie Park complementary roles across the region. While new areas will continue to grow, current Current metropolitan planning policy in Sydney where residential and employment land uses have overtaken the delivery of transport infrastructure. 2 Actively encourage the specialisation of centres trends indicate that people are increasingly choosing is broad brush in relation to centres, lacking the as part of a regional economic development and to live in established areas with ready access to differentiation needed to help Councils implement The NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan notes employment growth strategies, including NSW transport. Clear policy regarding specialisation of and guide development in such a way as to the Department of Planning’s centres hierarchy Government recognition of centre specialisation centres and the function and character of each recognise and enhance their character, attract as a core input into determining which centres and a funding model to promote centres through centre are needed: job-creating businesses and retain the quality of and precincts need better transport access5. the delivery of State Government infrastructure the built environment. An expanded understanding Establishing a clearer policy in relation to centres •- to respond to householder preferences for living of centre specialisation will maximise the region’s specialisation will allow Councils to better 3 Designate Chatswood as a Regional City in in distinctive areas and types of housing potential to generate employment, improve deliver on jobs and population growth targets recognition of its role in Northern Sydney, which sustainability and enhance urban quality of life. It is comparable to the west, south and central •- to increase resident certainty and developer and maximise returns from the State’s major would also send an important signal to the market catchment areas of Penrith, Liverpool and confidence and infrastructure investments in transport. regarding confidence in key industries and help Parramatta CBDs. to attract new businesses in these industries. •- to support market investment in job-generating Modern economic theory recognises such spatial 4 Advocate for a transparent policy framework industries. specialisation as one of the bases upon which linking transport infrastructure and centres Existing centres in Northern Sydney already have competitive advantage and employment growth is development. significant specialisation: built. In the absence of clear policy guidance on what is •- Chatswood CBD serves as the regional centre and is not suited to a specific centre, those at the 5 NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan, NSW Government, December 2012 at page 43.. for Northern Sydney. It is the focus for a range frontline of local planning can only act to limit or of community civic and cultural activities and its promote uses within the controls established under population, employment, economic activity and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. public transport hub make it the primary loci for As the development industry responds to economic the region. cycles overheated prices from lags in provision of residential or commercial sectors can impact •- North Sydney CBD functions as part of “Global significantly on centres. Sydney” and is part of the Global Economic In the absence of targeted planning policy and Corridor stretching from the national gateways controls, key sites can be diverted forever from of Port Botany and Sydney Airport through to economically integrated activity. This results in the Sydney CBD, and north to St Leonards, dilution of the potential benefits of clustering by Chatswood and Macquarie Park. alienating sites that would complement existing •- Macquarie Park is a nationally significant specialisation. research and business centre, specialising in the communications, medical research, pharmaceutical and IT&T sectors.

•- St Leonards is a hospital, allied health services and corporate precinct.

•- Specialised clusters of industry, professional and service activity exist throughout the region at a range of different scale outside the major centres.

18 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 19 Outcome 1C Active transport example, is an innovative collaboration with businesses, the City of Ryde and Transport for NSW Better recognition and support for local transport solutions Councils have a role in the delivery and to create an efficient and sustainable transport maintenance of infrastructure for active transport system. It is the public face of the Macquarie Park – walking and cycling. As well as its obvious health Transport Management Association, a non-profit Governments at all levels in Australia have Community transport is part of the picture and environmental benefits, active transport also incorporated association made up of businesses acknowledged that in order to address Sydney’s plays an important part in metropolitan transport in the local area, State and local government, Councils directly contribute to metropolitan public congestion challenges we need to make it easier for provision. Sydney’s rates for cycling and walking developers and institutions. As the third largest transport through the provision of community residents and employees to move around. We need are low compared to other Australian capitals employment area in Sydney, there is a huge transport. There are 25 community transport to allow for efficient movement of people and goods and comparable international cities. Despite their demand for travel to Macquarie Park and North services across Northern Sydney, with most funded to allow business to operate profitably through comparatively lower infrastructure costs, and Ryde and with the Park forecast to double in by Councils and designed for non-health related improvements to hard infrastructure, and we need demonstrably high benefit to cost ratios, transport size over the next 20 years, there is potential for transport. While some Councils (such as Ryde, to promote behaviour change that results in an agencies have typically treated cycling and walking significant negative flow-on impact on major road Willoughby and North Sydney) take a direct role increased number of people using public transport, as purely recreational. corridors across the region. Partnership programs in transport services, all NSROC Councils provide sharing a car, walking or cycling to work. of this kind help to promote full uptake of public support and co-ordination to local community The NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan and active transport options in the region, and There has been significant effort to address the transport services. acknowledges the recent significant growth in to complement infrastructure provision through overall transport picture for Sydney under the cycling on corridors near major centres where promoting workplace travel choices and inter-modal 2012 NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan. The The sector also includes transport for the aged, new cycling infrastructure has delivered separated connections. Master Plan recognises that Sydney’s transport people with a disability and others who cannot paths. It has also identified major regional cycling access mainstream public transport services. system is not well integrated, which has restricted infrastructure projects for the lower north shore. u Actions its reliability and capacity over time and limited its NSROC Councils have a significant role to play There are significant financial, policy and regulatory ability to meet changing customer needs. in integrating these projects into wider regional 1. Advocate for the inclusion of micro and barriers to efficient provision in this layer of the and local networks and by making these options community transport as part of metropolitan overall transport picture. Councils in the region While a significant and understandable focus in the accessible and safe. transport planning and investment, including its have been constrained from supplementing private Master Plan is on large scale transport infrastructure integration with other services. needs, NSROC Councils believe that policy must services and from offering services on routes The lack of a comprehensive safe regional cycling also recognise local and community transport in partly covered by other licensed operators, despite network that connects local streets to employment 2. Work with Transport for NSW to reform metropolitan transport planning. Just as people there being little or no evidence of any impact on centres means that more Northern Sydney transport regulations so that a sustainable moving within our region must integrate a range of demand for regular bus services arising as a result residents and workers who could cycle are instead business model for micro-transport services different scales in their everyday journeys from door of community transport. For example, Lane Cove choosing other modes, many of which are already can be established, based on cost recovery and to door, our transport services and infrastructure West Business Park employs over 8,000 people, stretched to capacity at peak times. Delivery needs more flexibility in allowing contestability with must be similarly integrated across all layers, from but Council has been prohibited from offering to be coordinated regionally, because there is existing services. local roads and small-scale public transport for supplementary bus services even though the current no benefit from a cycleway that arbitrarily stops within-region travel to major regional corridors for private service only runs only twice a day. Councils at a local government area boundary or the next 3. Develop a plan for a regional cycling network for peak hour journeys to major employment centres. are also generally constrained from charging fares major obstacle. There are financial, ownership Northern Sydney in partnership with the NSW or recovering costs, as they are not licensed public and topographic constraints in Northern Sydney Government focused on providing safe access to transport operators. that limit the ability of local government to provide centres. appropriate facilities where they are acting alone.

Promoting inter-modal connections

Councils also play a role in information initiatives that reduce the demand for peak-period private vehicle travel by promoting public transport options to and from major workplaces and institutions. Connect Macquarie Park + North Ryde, for

20 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 21 Outcome 1D Housing choice for key workers There are numerous examples of NSROC Councils seeking to make a difference in this area. North Effective tools to ensure key workers, young people and ageing residents can Rents and land values in the region are continuing Sydney Council commissioned a report on how to to rise, and residential vacancy rates have been live in the region facilitate the provision of more affordable housing low for some time. A high proportion of households through its development control plan6 and has spend 30% or more of their income on rent or used developer contributions to deliver affordable Housing choice and affordability are significant There are high rates of home ownership among mortgages and the region faces a significant community housing through a local community issues for the social viability of the region. More the Region’s 65+ population with 65% of 65+ shortage of lower cost housing available for rent housing provider7 . Willoughby Council also uses than one in six people will be aged 65 and over households (51,727 households) owning their and purchase. Anecdotally, businesses in the developer contributions to facilitate the provision in Northern Sydney and the Northern Beaches by homes outright. This is potentially an opportunity region are finding it increasingly hard to employ of affordable housing and has demonstrated 2031. With high land values in the area, housing when older people look to “right size” to more key workers in vital services such as aged and leadership in establishing a joint venture to build the affordability is impacting on the ability of people to appropriate and affordable housing. However 9% child care, health, urban services, and hospitality. Dougherty Apartments on Council land. stay in the region as they age and for key workers of NSROC 65+ households (7,207 households) These workers do not qualify for public housing in the aged care and other service sectors to live still have a mortgage and 8% (6,759 households) but increasingly find that their income does not While the NSW and Australian Governments in the region. Most young people also face the are renting. This suggests in some parts of the allow them to rent or purchase accommodation are together responsible for housing policy, leaving the region as they transition to independent NSROC Region there is potential for housing stress within reasonable distance to their work. This trend including the provision of housing for lower income living, which can be a problem where other as incomes contract in later years. The shortage of contributes to lengthy journey to work times, with households, Northern Sydney Councils can and do stressors are in evidence and they are vulnerable to affordable housing in NSROC region means older its attendant private costs in fuel and fares and the add value to the challenge of expanding affordable homelessness. people whose circumstances place them in or at public diseconomies arising from traffic congestion. housing opportunities and improving housing choice risk of housing stress are unable to remain in the and should have a ‘seat at the table’ in addressing area and risk social isolation as a consequence of A related issue is the shortage of lower cost this complex issue. relocating away from their network of family and accommodation for students in proximity to places Ageing in place friends. of higher education, most significantly Macquarie University. Students represent a significant Ageing will affect every part of Local Government’s Institutional care is also a challenge. Shortages of employment pool of key workers, as well as adding role as older people expect to be able to grow old in aged places and packages have been identified vibrancy to an area; however, the experience their communities, preferably in their own homes. for Northern Sydney based on current populations in Northern Sydney is that on-campus student and ageing profiles. Based on Commonwealth accommodation is fully committed and many The role of local government is critical in providing Recommended Targets, over 800 community aged students are unable to live near the University. the services required for its citizens to ‘age in places must be delivered by 2016 if ageing in region place’. Councils in Northern Sydney have a range is to be a reality. With long lead times for delivery, of strategies and plans in place that recognise the this infrastructure should be at the planning and importance of ageing and, in support of shared construction stages now. endeavours in this policy area. The adaptability of individual dwellings to support an NSROC has prepared a blueprint for enhancing ageing community is also a key issue. One impact Councils’ role in its Regional Ageing Priorities paper. of the ageing population is ‘empty nesting’, where The paper identifies four action areas for regional ageing people tend to stay in larger homes after ageing policy: children have moved out. There are multiple reasons • Better transport and mobility so people can get for this, including the high costs of relocating to around and stay connected new homes as well as a lack of supply of smaller dwellings in existing areas. Existing systems also • More housing choice and affordability act against the option of downsizing family homes, due to the high cost of adapting existing dwellings, • Building community capacity to provide social and regulatory barriers to conversion of individual and home support services to people wherever dwellings for subletting and subdivision. Innovative they live and solutions to dwelling adaptability need to be examined, such as dual keying, where dwellings • Better information that connects people in local are readily convertible for subletting but cannot be communities and increases their participation in separately titled. healthy ageing choices

6 Stubbs, Judith (July 2013) North Sydney Affordable Housing: DCP Review and Recommendations. 7 These contributions collected for affordable housing now must be paid to the NSW Government where they are distributed according 22 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 to need across NSW. 23 Young people u Actions Regional Priority 2: Improved Service Delivery

Secure housing is vital for living a safe and fulfilling 1. Implement the NSROC regional ageing plan’s life. Young people need to establish economic initiatives in housing choice and affordability security and find housing as part of their transition and in building community capacity to provide to independence. Access to housing in Northern social and home support services to the Increased efficiency Sustainable Sydney can be an expensive and daunting task. ageing population, by working with the NSW through regional funding for local Young people are more likely to face discrimination Government. cooperation in government in the rental market due to a lack of rental history delivering key services and and references, and the inability to demonstrate 2. Develop an affordable housing policy for the services operations reliable income. Northern Sydney Region, to signal this priority to the development sector, attract key workers A separate and critical gap exists for young people and provide encouragement to older people that seeking accommodation where their domestic they can age in their community. Identify key services Advocate for a fairer situation necessitates living away from family. with potential for regional funding model for local aggregation government that recognises In these circumstances maintaining place-based 3. Develop an integrated regional information local government’s role connections to friends and recreational interests can strategy for services available to enable avoid the social isolation that comes from moving people to age well in their local communities. to a new part of the city, which can compound the Incorporate digital options in this information strategy such as the use of smart phone personal challenged already being faced. Finding Promote reform to local Examine potential for accommodation in Northern Sydney in these applications, networking through web portals government legislation to cooperative delivery of local and state local government circumstances is a major problem, as subsidised and social media, to create more awareness make it easier for Councils to voluntarily aggregate and services, with appropriate services are disappearing and the private rental about healthy ageing, available services and share services cost sharing and recovery market offers very limited low cost housing. events.

Young people who are unable to find safe and 4. Ensure that the Regional Youth Strategy includes initiatives to assist young people secure housing are at risk of homelessness. Develop a framework to Seek meaningful Homeless young people are more likely to become seeking affordable housing in the region. coordinate active recreation partnerships with the NSW disengaged from education and employment, and spaces at a regional scale Government in program design and delivery are more likely to evidence health problems such as lower rates of nutrition, higher rates of mental health problems and drug and alcohol abuse.

Implement the regional waste strategy

24 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 25 Outcome 2A As well as service consolidation and shared u Actions management, a case can be made that Increased efficiency through regional cooperation in delivering key services collaboration in regulation should be explored. 1. Identify key services with potential for regional The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal aggregation, investigate potential efficiency in its 2013 draft Report on Local Government gains and barriers, and establish priority NSROC Councils are supportive of regional For NSROC the regional waste strategy has been Compliance and Enforcement found that enhanced based on efficiencies that can be realised for collaboration between local governments in service developed to extend collaboration between Councils Council collaboration can potentially improve each participating member Council. and policy areas where this approach can deliver in relation to: Council’s regulatory capacity and capability, as well 2. Promote reform to local government legislation greater value, and where a case-by-case basis as regulatory consistency and cooperation. Such to make it easier for Councils to voluntarily exists and is supported by analysis of the costs • management of problem wastes collaboration is not enabled by the current local aggregate and share services removes barriers and benefits. For some services, local governments government legislation. to regional collaboration. need to be able to aggregate to a ‘critical mass’ • illegal dumping measures to better procure services and infrastructure and There is also a clear need for the development of • waste management in multi-unit dwellings 3. Develop a framework to coordinate active deliver enhancements. better approaches at the program design stage to coordinate local action with wider State, and recreation spaces at a regional scale, including • community education investigation of the opportunities for efficiency Local Government legislation needs reform Australian government programs, to maximise gains in maintenance and management. • regional waste tendering. efficiency gains. This would avoid the overlaying There are statutory restrictions on collective of regional strategies and plans on agencies’ 4. Implement the regional waste strategy, to activities imposed on Councils by the Local existing programs, a process which generally delays Developing a regional waste tender for processing improve economic and environmental outcomes Government Act. Various sections of the Act work implementation as agencies defend their existing and disposal services is well advanced and is widely in the area of waste management and resource to restrict local government’s capacity to delegate programs, and has hampered the delivery of the supported solution but one which has involved recovery to third parties to jointly raise funds, tender, costly and complex consent processes with two 2012-14 Regional Action Plan for Northern Sydney. negotiate and build infrastructure or profit making levels of Government, multiple reports to Councils, Local Councils are well equipped to partner with assets. This restriction applies across any regional and lengthy delays arising from limitations in local other tiers of Government in delivering services to activity or enterprise across Councils and limits government legislation on calling and accepting joint the community but this depends on their potential their market options compared with the approaches Council tenders. involvement being factored into programs at the available to the private sector. earliest possible stages rather than assumed or NSROC Councils recognise further opportunities for ‘tacked on’ after programs are determined and Waste management is an area that illustrates enhanced service delivery through collective action, announced. the benefits from regional aggregation while building on the NSROC regional waste tender. highlighting the need for regulatory reform in NSW Currently legislative impediments unnecessarily limit local government legislation. The experience of this option. NSROC member Councils in waste management 8 IPART October 2013 Draft Report-Local Government compliance and enforcement, page 101. is that meeting the State’s municipal waste One such area is the provision of sportsgrounds for reduction targets requires regional scale system field sports, using synthetic surfaces to extend the enhancements and innovative waste management hours of use and increase economies of scale to that is beyond the capacity of all but the largest manage the cost of installation and maintenance. individual Councils. This potential has been Some progress has been made in researching recognised by the NSW Environment Protection opportunities for regional action in this service area, Authority, which funds regional waste strategies and more is planned, to maximise the benefits and coordination positions based in Regional across the region from the major investment Organisations of Councils. required to replace turf with synthetic surfaces. Renewable energy infrastructure and human resources management practice are other areas where Council officers see potential for greater cooperation to achieve efficiencies.

26 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 27 Outcome 2B u Actions Sustainable funding for local government services and operations 1. Advocate for a fairer funding model for local government that recognises local government’s role in regulated services, fairly recovers costs, In its 2008 report the Productivity Commission Sustainable funding and removes unreasonable regulation of Council identified a wide range of local government fee structures and revenue policies. functions and services across Australian Councils. Councils in NSW are now subject to rigorous and Over the last decades these have broadened from prescriptive long term financial planning and asset 2. Examine potential for cooperative delivery of those statutorily required of Councils to include management requirements that are comparable local and state local government services, multiple services that have arisen as a result of cost to public company reporting. All revenue and with appropriate cost sharing and recovery. shifting from other levels of government, increasing income sources and their application are on the This should include combining and sharing in community expectations and local government’s public record, as they should be. To make the the local delivery of frontline information and willingness to address needs where market or policy model work in a business-like way mechanisms payment services at Services NSW one stop failure is in evidence. In many cases Councils have are needed to allow local government to bring the shops. taken up roles that were never designed for small costs of new services into financial management area delivery. arrangements that Councils can modulate. These 3. Seek meaningful partnerships with the NSW include unfettering the setting of rates, fees and Government in program design and delivery to The Final Report of the NSW Independent Local charges. Alternatively, direct funding of transferred improve service integration between levels of Government Review Panel for example reported responsibilities should be made to cover compliance government. that in 2010-11, close to 6% of NSW Councils total and delivery costs. income before capital, or almost $500 million, was spent on cost shifted activities. More flexible funding mechanisms for community services and Council operations exist in other Two policy responses deserve continued debate – jurisdictions and provide models for consideration. render a clear distinction in service roles between These include removing or loosening the limits levels of government and, where local government on rate setting, innovative funding measures (tax takes on new functions, ensure that funding models credits, local infrastructure bonds, tied levies like allow for sustainable service provision. the Sydney Regional Development Fund or special purpose levies) and project-based uniform levies. With a true partnership approach and sustainable funding Councils can focus on providing the frontline The Local Government Infrastructure Report (DLG, community services that are best delivered at local June 2013) reports that in 2011-12 there was a level. Improving practical collaboration between backlog in required infrastructure spending of $7.4 State and Local Government is to be encouraged, billion across NSW Councils, and that Councils but sustainable policy and program partnerships would have needed to increase rates by around require both partners to have clear roles and income 110% above the rate peg in that year simply to fund streams to meet their costs and an agreed approach that backlog. to the assessment of ‘consequential financial impacts’. With greater equity and transparency, With appropriate checks and balances and in local government can provide continue to provide consultation with their communities, Councils a range of services based on reliable revenue should be able to set rates that allow them to meet streams. local service needs and expectations as established under their Integrated Planning & Reporting Framework plans.

9 Final Report of the Independent Local Government Review Panel, Revitalising Local Government, Independent Local Government Review Panel, October 2013, pages 36-37.

28 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 29 6 PROJECTS SUPPORTING REGIONAL PRIORITIES Hunters Hill Village Revitalisation The project will result in an innovative mix of uses This is a major project for the area and includes in an existing centre in response to the needs of Over 2014-16 NSROC Councils will manage a diverse In some cases these projects are structured in the demolition of existing buildings, construction the growing population. range of projects that will result in new facilities and such a way as to create a funding source from the of mixed use residential and retail with parking, a expanded and enhanced urban and open spaces. accompanying development of new residential revitalised urban design plan and an improved traffic Private sector and Roads These projects range in size and scale, but all are accommodation, which also meets demand for management plan. and Maritime Services evidence of the high levels of organisational and more and new kinds of dwellings in the region. Capital Value contributions There will be several sites that will undergo professional capacity in Councils. In some cases Council investment redevelopment, enabling Council to respond to Councils are pursuing complex public works through Many Councils are rejuvenating recreation facilities $0.6 million demands from urban growth. The restoration of innovative approaches to project management that to increase capacity and add new attractions the existing Hunters Hill Hotel and construction Location Hunters Hill PROJECTS draw together multi-agency investment timetables that contribute to the health and quality of life of of a mixed use building (41 residential units) and and large-scale public and private sector investment. communities. associated car parking will provide a focal point upon Delivery 2016 A number of Councils have taken the need to Following are ‘pen pictures’ of just a few of the entering Hunters Hill. The adjacent ‘Mapledorams update public domain areas such as car parks as projects that Northern Sydney Councils will progress Corner’ will see amalgamation of lots, demolition of opportunities to re-imagine and revitalise urban in 2014-16, illustrating how Councils are tackling existing structures and the erection of a four storey precincts and scale up the use of scarce public space the regional priorities of managing urban growth mixed use development with two levels of car by providing for multiple uses. By this means much- and improving service delivery, to meet the needs of parking. need open space is being created. Northern Sydney residents and businesses. The benefits to the local and broader community include new residential accommodation and parking, a revitalised shopping experience, a visually appealing Better design and greater activity: rejuvenating our suburban centres streetscape, new and improved facilities and a better traffic management program.

The revitalisation of the Gladesville Shopping The project illustrates collaboration between Centre precinct will result in a dramatic change the public and private sector to leverage better in the visual amenity and capacity of the Victoria outcomes and make best use of space Eastwood Town Centre Upgrade and Renewal Road corridor. This regionally important project in existing centres. The project illustrates how Councils are helping will see the demolition of the existing Gladesville With this project, Ryde City Council will design to sustain the economic viability of centres by Shopping Centre and rebuilding of a multipurpose Private sector investment and construct public domain upgrade works in Capital Value $20 million. Council investing in public domain infrastructure. retail and residential hub. Visual improvements, Rowe Street, Eastwood town centre. The aim contribution $0.75 million including entry and access points, public art and of the project is to make Eastwood town centre streetscaping, will be provided through a voluntary more attractive and functional and to improve its Capital Value $2.5 million planning agreement. Hunter’s Hill Council has been Location Victoria Road Gladesville economic viability and performance. working in partnership with Gladesville Shopping Village, City of Ryde Council, Roads and Maritime Benefits for the community include: Location Rowe St Eastwood Services and the Environmental Protection Authority Delivery 2016 to drive this project. • Shopkeepers and customers will enjoy easier This will be the largest project of its kind for access, more attractive paving, increased Delivery 2015-16 Hunter’s Hill Council in adding residential capacity to footpath area for outdoor dining, increased the area, with approximately 180 units to be built on shade and other environmental benefits, public top of a significant retail centre. The main benefits art and new street furniture to local residents and visitors to the area will be the revitalised shopping strip, better accessibility and • The upgrade is designed to attract more people increased employment and housing. Other benefits to the centre - increasing its significance as will include improved pedestrian links, improved a community meeting-place and boosting physical urban design such as paving and street profitability of local businesses furniture. • Undergrounding of key infrastructure and installation of multi-function poles

• “Gateway” treatments to the entrances to Rowe Street. 30 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 31 Innovation in the public domain: creating new kinds of open space Lane Cove Village Redevelopment The project highlights the significant complexity Expanded access to retail and commercial facilities and innovation in funding models that Councils through more parking and a significant addition of Lindfield Village Green are equipped to manage. new open space adjacent to the existing village Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council’s Lindfield Green The project shows how Councils are making centre will be the outcome of this major project. project will result in the construction of a new park efficient use of their properties to respond to the Lane Cove Council is redeveloping the 5,500 square Capital Value $45 million and civic space in the heart of Lindfield local centre community’s desire for more open spaces for metre-176 space car park into a new 500 space social interaction. within 50 metres of Lindfield railway station. The underground car park, with one layer of below project includes: ground retail (supermarkets) and a park on top Location Rosenthal Avenue, Lane Cove • provision for up to 100 Council owned car which will complement the Lane Cove Plaza. The $19.7 million total public and spaces on the site Capital Value project will deliver anchor tenants to the northern private investment. Construction is planned to end of the existing retail precinct. Additional parking Delivery • construction of a new single level basement commence in October 2016 and the new park will help meet the needs of the public car park Location Tryon Road Lindfield expanding population from surrounding higher • 2,700 square metre civic space over the car density residential development. park Concept design approval The project will deliver on community demands for • pavilion building with café and amenities in the Delivery expected April 2015 increased parking and increased open space, while park at the same time adding diversity to retail offerings • streetscape works to adjoining streets and lanes that complement existing local business. Under the • road and transport works to adjoining streets leasing arrangement in the medium to long term and lanes. the project will provide a revenue stream to Lane Cove Council. The key objective of the project is to create an open space for leisure activities and local events, such as markets and performances, in a park setting. Lindfield Green will be a place for the wider community and residents to meet, play and connect. The project involves Council replacing its existing surface car parking with a basement car park to free up space on the surface for a park. The project also utilises an innovative funding model tied to development contributions.

32 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 33 Implementation of Education Precinct St Leonards Plaza and Bus/Rail Interchange Masterplan The project will involve the school and broader The project is one of a number in the region Projected urban growth in the St Leonards area community in creting permeable and flexible that recognises the importance of pedestrian The Education Precinct Planning Study is a roadmap will put pressure on existing transport facilities urban spaces. connectivity, open space and access to transport to improve the character and function of a 26 and increase demand for open space to ensure services in new high density residential areas. hectare area just west of the North Sydney Centre liveability. This Lane Cove Council-initiated project that supports close to one-third of North Sydney’s Capital Value $12 million will deliver a new public plaza over the existing total student population. The Study builds on the train lines as a way of providing much needed open Capital Value $55 million existing strengths of the precinct: the student Location North Sydney space, a demand that will increase proposed new population, heritage buildings and the laneway residential towers dramatically boosts the nearby Location Pacific Highway St Leonards network. population. The project will deliver increased open space Key outcomes in the short to medium term will be Delivery Planning underway 2014-15 Planning underway in of over 6,000 square metres in the heart of St Delivery more informal spaces for students, residents and 2014-2015 Leonards. With connections to the railway station, workers to gather, a lively, new extension to the the St Leonards Plaza will also accommodate a North Sydney Centre focussing on education, and bus interchange on the Pacific Highway providing greater engagement with schools in place-making the conversion of some laneways into shared a regionally significant transport hub. The building initiatives. zones is underway and proposed changes to developments will provide retail and community major intersections are being modelled by traffic The initial implementation phase has involved opportunities at the Plaza level, creating a busy and consultants. Projects are now being costed and preparing a public domain Masterplan for the vibrant public space. scheduled into North Sydney Council’s delivery precinct that identifies staged upgrades to paving, Developments over rail corridors are sources of program. street furniture and landscaping. Planning for complexity in both the planning and construction stages. Council is liaising with NSW Government agencies on this project to secure the air space rights and undertake the detail design process. Upgraded access to public transport: making the most of transport services

Hornsby Station Footbridge The project highlights the commitment of Hornsby Station Footbridge is more than 30 years Northern Sydney Councils to projects improving old, is in dilapidated condition, and is a key piece of pedestrian connectivity and access to infrastructure used by more than 15,000 people each transport services. day. The footbridge does not comply with current disabled access standards and its width is insufficient to accommodate peak hour foot traffic. Capital Value $7 million Hornsby Shire Council’s project will create a new wider footbridge to comfortably accommodate Hornsby Railway Station, pedestrian movements in both peak and non-peak Location linking western and eastern periods. It will also be constructed higher to meet the sides of Hornsby Town Centre minimum motor vehicle clearance requirements over a state road. Disabled access will be provided via Design and preconstruction elevators. Delivery in 2014/15, construction in Consultation with users has been a key component 2015/16 in the design of the new Footbridge, along with extensive reviews of foot traffic habits and movements. Local businesses have been involved in determining the way the Footbridge ‘lands’ in Hornsby Mall and plans have been drawn up to include more seating and pleasant spaces at the landing point.

34 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 35

View from Mall (Preliminary photomontage subject to further development ) Greater housing choice: tackling the challenge of affordability Old buildings, new purposes: renewing assets for community purposes

Mixed use community facility, Parraween Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability – The project illustrates imaginative re-use of Street, Cremorne Platform Green Roof This project shows how Northern Sydney heritage buildings and Councils’ willingness to North Sydney Council has developed a proposal Councils are meeting open space needs while North Sydney Council is developing an innovative, show leadership by investing in sustainable for the redevelopment of the Parraween Street car stimulating business and expanding new, multi-purpose passive recreational space on technologies. park and adjacent Early Childhood Health Centre. affordable housing. the roof of the former Coal Loader at Waverton. The proposal includes two levels of ‘key worker’ From the 1920s until it was decommissioned in Capital Value $6 million housing that will provide a total of 19 units (1/2/3 the 1990s, the 10,000 square metre Coal Loader bed) to be managed by Link Housing, together with Capital Value $20 million platform housed a large coal stockpile. The rooftop space with BBQ amenities and space for proposed plans for the platform will transform it into Location Balls Head Road Waverton vegetable & herb growing. The new facility will also one of Sydney’s largest publicly accessible green create three levels of underground parking providing Location Parraween Street, Cremorne roof spaces. Features will include urban harvest 165 spaces and 64 existing at grade spaces, open plots irrigated by recycled stormwater, extensive Delivery 2016 space parkland with recreation facilities to cater to seating and viewing areas, a performance and all ages, a ground floor level with meeting room, Delivery Planning underway 2014-15 exhibition space and heritage interpretation of the new early childhood health centre, and a business platform’s original coal loading operations. hub catering to start-up businesses. A raised New sustainability technologies will be integrated pavement in Parraween Street will provide a shared into the old coal loading infrastructure, including zone with high-quality paving and catenary lighting stormwater harvesting through bio-filters (rain- adding style and ambience. gardens) located in the old coal loading chutes. Water will be stored in tanks located in one of the old coal loading tunnels that run beneath the platform. A large photovoltaic solar array is planned Housing development, Elizabeth Street, to offset site power requirements. Integrated Artarmon Affordable housing in a prime transport location sensors will enable environmental conditions to be The 1,000 square metre site adjacent to the financed through collocated retail space will be monitored via the internet. Artarmon Station has been identified by Willoughby delivered by this project. City Council as a suitable site for ‘key worker’ affordable housing, yielding approximately 19 Capital Value $4.5 million residential units along with ground floor retail to be retained by Willoughby City Council as an income stream. The aim is to revitalise the site, provide a Location Elizabeth Street, Artarmon quality residential development and streetscape and add to economic activity in the area. The land Construction expected to New Long Day Care Centre, Artarmon investment of approximately $3 million will provide Delivery a return to Council’s property reserve through rental begin in late 2015 This Willoughby City Council project is for the This project shows how Northern Sydney Councils are responding to changing community of the ground floor commercial space. redevelopment of a current 30 place, long day care needs through new land use models. centre, in what was once a dwelling, but is now reaching the end of its economic life. The location is ideal, being in a medium density residential area Capital Value $4 million and opposite a Public School. Planning and design work has established that a 78 place centre is feasible and the plans have been progressed to Location Abbott Road, Artarmon development application stage. The aim of the project is to renew the asset, increase available Construction is expected to childcare places and investigate alternative funding Delivery being in late 2015 opportunities so that Council can use it as a model for delivery of other childcare services. It is proposed that construction will commence at the end of 2015.

36 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 37 ABC/Gore Hill Recreational Facility Thornleigh Brickpit Indoor Sports Stadium The project exemplifies the innovative extension The project is an example of Local Government’s Willoughby City Council has entered a voluntary approaches to funding community infrastructure responsiveness to community demand for indoor planning agreement with the developers of the being adopted by Northern Sydney Councils. Planning has begun for a two court extension to the sports facilities with good road and rail access. former ABC Studios at Gore Hill for the provision of popular Thornleigh Brickpit Indoor Sports Stadium an indoor, multi-purpose court facility. The facility Capital Value $25 million (the Brickpit), which was constructed by Hornsby will provide an indoor multi courts centre together Shire Council in 2003. While the main uses are Capital Value $3.9 million with a soccer pitch that is also divisible into other for basketball, netball, futsal and badminton, the Location Pacific Highway, Gore Hill configurations to satisfy demand for a multitude of Brickpit has also hosted non-sporting activities such Location 1A Dartford Road, Thornleigh sports. The multi-level centre will provide amenities, as bridge and model train expos. In response to Design in 2014/15, space for program community rooms and parking Construction timing is demand for court space Delivery that will be available for public use. dependent on the staging of The extension of the facility will continue the construction in 2015/16 Delivery the development on the Gore positive social benefit the facility provides for the Hill Technology Business Park community. campus.

Sport and recreation infrastructure: supporting healthy communities

Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre Hornsby Shire Council’s new flagship facility, the The project illustrates the significant scale of Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre, is a state of community facilities being delivered by Councils in the region in response to population growth the art regional facility with: and diverse community needs. • Heated eight lane 50 metre outdoor pool for lap Ku-ring-gai Fitness and Aquatic Centre swimming and water polo Ku-ring-gai Fitness and Aquatic Centre is an Capital Value $28 million Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council is re-developing an • A heated, ten metre by 25 metre indoor pool for environmentally sensitive redevelopment of existing outdoor two-pool complex known as the indoor and outdoor recreation space to meet learn-to-swim activities “West Pymble Pool” to add a new centre that Location Peats Ferry Rd, Hornsby Park community needs. • A heated leisure pool with zero depth entry has been designed in sympathy with its location, leading into a walking zone nestled into the side of a low hill, with the canopy of Capital Value $17.5 million Delivery 2014 protected forest around the site. The development • Outdoor seating for 500 spectators will create: • A gymnasium • indoor 25 metre heated pool with eight lanes Location West Pymble • Child minding, parking, multi-purpose • indoor heated program pool rooms and classes such as yoga and zumba Delivery 2014 • indoor and outdoor toddlers’ pool and water play • Ramps and lifting machines area to enable access for those with a disability • cafe The development will benefit all age groups - • child minding room children through access to ‘Learn to Swim’ classes • cardio and weights gymnasium and play areas, adults using the 50 metre pool, • multi-purpose fitness & activity room aquarobics classes, gymnasium or program rooms for structured and unstructured training, and young • change rooms people participating in swim club training and • administration rooms and offices events. The development will also create a facility available to the community for a light meal or coffee • additional car parking in Bicentennial Park at the cafe, which will be accessible to people using • outdoor recreation areas enhanced by the adjacent park for passive recreation or to play landscaping works. cricket, netball, rugby or soccer. 38 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 39 North Turramurra Recreation Area Synthetic Sportsfield Surface, ESL Hall Park Investment by Councils in synthetic surfaces A major expansion of organised sports facilities Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council’s North Turramurra Ryde City Council is installing a synthetic turf on selected sportsfields extends capacity and being project managed by Council with extensive Recreation Area project will provide a major new surface to replace the existing natural turf playing reduces downtime caused by community involvement. facility for the community including: field at the ESL Hall Park No. 1 field. Once complete wet weather. this project will increase carrying capacity of the • 11 new golf holes and an overhaul of the field to cater for the increasing demand for active seven existing holes, providing a longer, more Capital Value $28 million open space areas and from sporting codes including Capital Value $1.6 million challenging course soccer, AFL, cricket, Oztag/Touch and social sports. • new clubhouse with change rooms and meeting Bobbin Head Road Location The new surface will cover a full AFL size field of Location Kent Road North Ryde rooms North Turramurra 1.5ha and be lit with new floodlighting. It will cater • three new floodlit multi-use sports fields for multiple sports including cricket, AFL, soccer, Delivery Progressively to 2016 Delivery 2015 • three new floodlit netball practice courts rugby, Frisbee and social sports. The project will extend the carrying capacity of the playing field by • park with children’s playground and BBQ facilities up to 200%, driving greater efficiency out of existing • walking tracks linking adjacent bushland infrastructure and addressing limited new open space opportunities. • parking for 265 vehicles. Benefits for the community include: The project is one of many in the region applying • Increased carrying capacity to allow for greater technology to solve the problems of unmet Innovation and complexities being tackled under use of the playing field and reduced demands on demand for playing grounds for field sports and Council’s project management include: high maintenance costs for turf fields. Such turf fields suffering over-use • Construction of a sewage treatment plant to developments are afoot in Hornsby, Willoughby, • The ability to cater for a number of different provide 300kL water per day for irrigation North Sydney, Lane Cove and Ku-ring-gai as well sporting codes on the one playing surface. as in City of Ryde. Synthetic surfaces absorb many • Construction of a 10ML storage dam to provide more hours of use and free up other fields for • An open space area able to be used that is not additional stormwater harvested water for use training, competition and unstructured recreation. disrupted for long periods after wet weather. as irrigation water • Reduction in maintenance costs to council. • Constructing a landfill gas collection system • Excavating into 50 year old landfill and creating new landfill cells • Shaping the bulk earthworks to cater for the undulations required on the golf course.

40 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 41 Surf Ryder, Ryde Aquatic and Leisure Centre References Ryde City Council’s newest recreation project is The project brings new life to an established Better, Stronger Local Government: The Case for Sustainable Change, the installation of a stand up surfing simulation facility through investment in innovation. Independent Local Government Review Panel, November 2012 attraction and associated landscaping on underutilised land at the popular Ryde Aquatic and Destination 2036 Action Plan, Leisure Centre. It is the first community aquatic Capital Value $3.5 million Division of Local Government, NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, June 2012 centre in NSW to offer a surf simulator ride. The development uses the grass slope on the northern Final Report of the Independent Local Government Review Panel, Revitalising Local Government, Location Victoria Road, Ryde (Victoria Road) side of the centre to create a Independent Local Government Review Panel, October 2013 renewed sense of place, enhancing and refreshing Local Government Compliance and Enforcement, the Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre and adding to the Delivery 2014 Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal, October 2013 Centre’s appeal to teenagers. NSROC Regional Ageing Priorities, Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, November 2013 Benefits for the community include: NSROC Regional Priorities 2012, • Increased efficiency of use of existing Council Urbanac and Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, 2012 owned land • High levels of sustainability, as an open-air NSROC Response to Future Directions for NSW Local Government, facility that is also undercover for year-round Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, 2012 surfing NSROC Submission to Draft NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan, • New form of attractive and viable activity for Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, 2012 young people. NSROC Submission in Response to the Final Report of the Independent Local Government Review Panel, Revitalising Local Government, 2013, Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, 2013

NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan, NSW Government, December 2012

42 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016 43 NSROC Regional Priorities 2014-2016