Draft North District Plan

Home , Manly Beach, Manly Dam, Wallumatta

November 2016 Co-creating Sydney a Greater Draft North District Plan

Draft North District Plan NORTH DISTRICT possible to provide input. input. to provide possible 2017 as to allow many people as of end the towards finalised be of March end the 2017, will and public exhibitionformal until Plan on is District This draft Sydney Commission. by Greater the developed Willoughby.and been It has Sydney, North Ryde Mosman, Beaches, Cove, Northern Hunters Hill, Ku-ring-gai, Lane of Hornsby, areas government which includes local the Greater District, Sydney’s North for proposals and aspirations out Plan sets District This draft How to be involved be to How Sydney 2056 –Towards vision Our well as as Greater our components, supporting You these view can Draft North District Plan Exhibition District North Draft District Plan District Overview of the draft the of Summary Summary brochure

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Contents

Our vision – North District 2036 1 1 Introduction 11 1.1 The role of district planning 12 1.2 Implementation 17 1.3 Next steps 20 2 Our vision Towards our Greater Sydney 2056 23 3 A Productive City 31 3.1 The North District’s economy 31 3.2 Managing employment and urban services land 38 3.3 Planning for job target ranges in strategic and district centres 41 3.4 Optimising the productivity benefits of Sydney Metro to create new smart jobs in strategic centres 44 3.5 Prioritising Northern Beaches Hospital as the catalyst for a new centre 62 3.6 Accessing a greater number of metropolitan jobs and centres within 30 minutes 65 3.7 Accessing local jobs, goods and services within 30 minutes 67 3.8 Coordinating freight activities with land use planning 68 3.9 Growing the tourism economy 70 4 A Liveable City 73 4.1 The North District’s people 75 4.2 Liveability priorities 80 4.3 Improve housing choice 81 4.4 Improve housing diversity and affordability 96 4.5 Coordinate and monitor housing outcomes and demographic trends 104 4.6 Create great places in the North District 105 4.7 Foster cohesive communities in the North District 109 4.8 Respond to people’s need for services 113 5 A Sustainable City 123 5.1 The North District’s environment 124 5.2 Enhancing the North District in its landscape 126 5.3 Protecting the District’s waterways 126 5.4 Managing coastal landscapes 131 5.5 Protecting and enhancing biodiversity 131 5.6 Delivering Sydney’s Green Grid 135 5.7 Managing the Metropolitan Rural Area 142 5.8 Creating an efficient North District 148 5.9 Planning for a resilient North District 151 Glossary 156 NORTH DISTRICT Chief Commissioner’s Foreword

On behalf of the Commissioners and staff of the To have wonderful beaches and bushland on Greater Sydney Commission, I acknowledge the the edges of a thriving and growing district with traditional owners of the lands that include the exciting centres gives this District an enviable North District. mix. Now we want to know how we can build on these assets, and current major infrastructure We acknowledge the living culture of the investment, as the District’s population traditional custodians of these lands, recognise grows and how we can deal with the difficult that they have occupied and cared for this questions and conflicts that may arise. country over countless generations, and celebrate their continuing contribution to the Everyone benefits when there is more clarity life of Greater Sydney. on our city’s approach and better guidance on what we should be prioritising. In getting this This draft District Plan sets a vision for growth right, we recognise that collaboration will be and development in the North District. It will key. There is a diversity of opportunities and form the overarching strategy for all future challenges in the District, with many different planning in the area. people, places and organisations involved. The draft District Plan recognises what we have The Greater Sydney Commission has been heard to date – particularly that the District has established to bring together all the various outstanding natural attributes and a way of parties with an interest in the District’s future life that is distinct from other areas of Greater and channel the collective energy. Sydney. We know that over the next 20 years, This draft District Plan is an important step in changes in our social make up – such as the setting a vision for growth and development in expected increase in people in the over 65 and the North District and Greater Sydney. especially the over 85 age brackets – will require I thank everyone from the community, industry, specific planning in terms of housing and councils, government and other stakeholder social infrastructure. groups who have contributed so far in developing this draft District Plan for public comment.

I encourage all stakeholders with an interest in the North District to take the time to review and provide feedback on this draft District Plan. Your suggestions, comments and opinions will be critical in making this draft District Plan a living, working document to guide the North District’s future.

Lucy Hughes Turnbull AO Chief Commissioner NORTH DISTRICT District Commissioner’s Foreword

The North District is one of the loveliest areas of We also know many people struggle with Sydney and Australia. congestion and while we will benefit from road and rail investments such as Sydney Metro It offers outstanding beaches and bushland, and NorthConnex, I want us to work together from the coastline suburbs between Manly to provide easy and attractive access to local to Palm Beach, to leafy areas such as Lane places, including walking or safely cycling to Cove, Wahroonga and Beecroft. People more areas. This includes better connections access important day to day services and jobs to public transport, and access to schools, at thriving centres such as Macquarie Park, shops and workplaces as well as our District’s Chatswood and North Sydney. Precious heritage bushland and waterways. areas such as Crows Nest, Castlecrag and Hunters Hill give us an insight into the This draft District Plan is part of a concerted District’s past. conversation between all of us who live and work here about how we can come together Many people want to enjoy this lifestyle, and to create the kind of North District we aspire they know they can do this in the North District to. I’m eager for as many people as possible to while also living within reach of a diversity of get involved. This conversation will continue world-leading workplaces. This means our throughout the coming months as we finalise population is changing and increasing. We’re this draft District Plan and it’s an important first well aware that we’ll have a higher proportion formal step in helping to shape the decisions of people over 65 and over 85 in the District in that will drive the District’s future. 20 years, which means we have to plan now for the health care and living arrangements Deborah Dearing people need as they get older. At the other end North District Commissioner of the spectrum, some parts of the District are booming in terms of young families, and we need to plan for child care and education places as a result. NORTH DISTRICT NORTH DISTRICT 1

Our vision – North District 2036 20-year vision, priorities and actions for the North District

The North District comprises geographically diverse, economically strong and environmentally aware communities who value and embrace progress, the local landscape and a great quality of life.

The North District is a unique place in Greater These new developments will attract new Sydney, where bush meets beach meets city. businesses and services that will deliver more jobs and diversity across a range of industries, Strong, sustainable planning will guide and including a thriving tourism sector. Better create a 20-year model to deliver a thriving connections will reduce the commute time to modern economy co-existing within beautiful work, and allow people living in the District’s natural landscapes. The North District’s communities to live closer to great places for expansive national parks, natural waterways shopping, lively main streets, sporting facilities and beaches, and its vibrant, connected and and some of the best that nature has to offer. productive centres, will interact to create opportunity and amenity. Community facilities, open space and cultural facilities will be available to all, linked by more This is particularly important for a district that public transport options and safe walking is changing. The North District’s population will and cycling routes, while the District’s many grow significantly and its make-up will change memorable heritage places and streets and as the overall population becomes older. To expansive Aborigional history will be carefully meet these challenges, the District will need to protected and enhanced. offer more housing choices from freestanding homes to more compact housing choices. It To make living in the District more affordable, will also need to offer residential aged care and new housing will offer a diversity of type, housing for people with a disability as well as tenure and price points. Collaborative planning supporting health and social infrastructure. across government will make sure that as the population grows, all residents have access to The North District will enjoy improved physical parks, schools and public transport. The diverse and economic links to major centres across character and identity of the North District’s Greater Sydney, including a new Sydney Metro local areas will be respected and enhanced. service to Sydney CBD, and better internal connections to link residents with jobs and services. Centres and urban precincts will grow around major infrastructure and essential urban services. NORTH DISTRICT 2

The North District

Local Government Area Strategic Centre Suburb and Boundary Highway (LGA) Boundary

National Parks District Centre Railway and Reserves

District Boundary Waterways Motorway NORTH DISTRICT 3

North District: Priorities and actions

This draft District Plan identifies priorities and Action tables in this section identify outcomes, actions to realise the vision for the District. This lead agencies and partner agencies (partners). section lists the overarching priorities that will Further detail on the priorities is included inform strategic planning and summarises the throughout this draft District Plan in terms actions outlined in each chapter. of implementation and monitoring priorities (Chapter 1) and productivity, liveability and sustainability priorities (Chapters 3, 4 and 5 respectively).

Implementation and monitoring actions

Action Outcome Lead agency Partners

INSW, IM1: Align land use planning and Inform the NSW Government’s GSC TfNSW, infrastructure planning infrastructure decision-making NSW Health

Inform the ongoing actions and IM2: Develop a framework to infrastructure investments of monitor growth and change in Government required to deliver GSC Greater Sydney A Plan for Growing Sydney and the District Plans

Enhance the community’s IM3: Develop an interactive understanding of the information hub – the Greater GSC performance and characteristics Sydney Dashboard of Greater Sydney

Improve the understanding of the effectiveness of District Plans in IM4: Report on local planning GSC Councils delivering on the stated priorities and actions NORTH DISTRICT 4

Productivity priorities • Prioritising Northern Beaches Hospital as catalyst for a new centre The proposed priorities and actions for a • Accessing a greater number of metropolitan productive North District focus on the District’s jobs and centres within 30 minutes major centres as generators of jobs growth and diversity. Our planning will realise opportunities • Accessing local jobs, goods and to leverage health, education and knowledge services within 30 minutes clusters and prioritise investment and detailed • Coordinating freight activities land use planning around the Northern Beaches with land use planning Hospital, St. Leonards and Macquarie Park, • Growing the tourism economy. while investment in transport will provide better access to a greater choice of jobs closer to where people live. The overarching priorities are:

• Managing employment and urban services land • Planning for job target ranges in strategic and district centres • Optimising the productivity benefits of Sydney Metro to create new smart jobs in strategic centres

Productivity actions

Action Outcome Lead agency Partners

P1: Develop better understanding of the value and operation of Increase in total jobs GSC Councils employment and urban services land

Increase in total jobs and P3: Create a sense of place, increase in health and GSC, DPE, Stakeholders, State grow jobs and diversify education and knowledge Council agencies, industry activity in Macquarie Park and professional services jobs

Increase in total jobs and P4: Facilitate place increase in health and making and the growth education and knowledge DPE, Councils GSC and diversification of job and professional opportunities in St Leonards services jobs

Increase in total jobs and P5: Coordinate planning and increase in health and infrastructure delivery in the NSW Health, other education and knowledge GSC Northern Beaches Hospital State agencies, Council and professional Collaboration Area services jobs

P6: Grow and manage the Destination NSW, visitor economy within Increase visitation GSC Councils the District NORTH DISTRICT 5

Liveability priorities and actions The proposed priorities and actions for a liveable North District draw on the District’s open spaces, bushland and beaches, its mix of neighbourhoods and housing types, and its many heritage areas. The District will provide a greater diversity of housing in the future, near to transport and the District’s many centres, and further enrich its many communities through design-led planning. The overarching priorities are:

• Improving housing choice • Improving housing diversity and affordability • Coordinating and monitoring housing outcomes and demographic trends • Creating great places in the North District • Fostering cohesive communities in the North District • Responding to people’s need for services.

Productivity actions

Action Outcome Lead agency Partners

P1: Develop better understanding of the value and operation of Increase in total jobs GSC Councils employment and urban services land

Increase in total jobs and P2: Develop and implement increase in health and an economic development education and knowledge DoI GSC, Jobs for NSW, AA strategy for the Eastern City and professional services jobs +196,350 more people by 2036 Increase in total jobs and +75,100 increase in persons P3: Create a sense of place, increase in health and GSC, DPE, Stakeholders, State 65+ by 2036 grow jobs and diversify education and knowledge Council agencies, industry Population 1.083m activity in Macquarie Park and professional Sturcture Age services jobs 981,600 886,550 +11% +20% +85% more babies and more 5 to 19 more 85+ Increase in total jobs and pre-schoolers year olds year olds P4: Facilitate place increase in health and making and the growth 910k education and knowledge DPE, Councils GSC and diversification of job and professional opportunities in St Leonards services jobs 2016 2026 2036 Increase in total jobs and P5: Coordinate planning and increase in health and infrastructure delivery in the NSW Health, other education and knowledge GSC Northern Beaches Hospital State agencies, Council and professional Collaboration Area services jobs

P6: Grow and manage the Destination NSW, visitor economy within Increase visitation GSC Councils the District NORTH DISTRICT 6

Liveability actions

Action Outcome Lead agency Partners

L1: Prepare local housing strategies Increase in diversity of housing choice Councils

L2: Identify the opportunities to create the capacity to deliver 20-year strategic Creation of housing capacity GSC Councils, DPE housing supply targets

L3: Councils to increase housing capacity Creation of housing capacity and increase Councils across the District in diversity of housing choice

L4: Encourage housing diversity Increase in diversity of housing choice DPE

Industry CHPs, L5: Independently assess need and viability Increase in affordable rental housing GSC DPE

L6: Support councils to achieve additional Increase in affordable housing GSC Councils, DPE affordable housing

DPE, Councils, L7: Provide guidance on Affordable Rental Increase in affordable rental housing GSC State agencies, Housing Targets CHPs

L8: Undertake broad approaches to Councils, Increase in affordable housing GSC facilitate affordable housing Industry CHPs

L9: Coordinate infrastructure planning and Change in industry perceptions (surveyed) GSC DPE delivery for growing communities

L10: Provide data and projections on Contribute to more informed infrastructure population and dwellings for local investment decisions, strategic planning DPE government areas across Greater Sydney and plan making

L11: Provide design-led planning to support Contribute to improved sustainability, OGA GSC high quality urban design productivity and liveability outcomes

L12: Develop guidelines for safe and healthy Contribute to improved health outcomes GSC DPE built environments and increased walking and cycling

L13: Conserve and enhance environmental Identification and protection of heritage including Aboriginal, European OEH, DPE, AA GSC, Councils heritage elements and natural

L14: Develop a North District sport and Contribute to informed decision making recreation participation strategy and sport for sport and recreation infrastructure and Office of Sport Councils and recreation facility plan increased participation

State agencies, Increase in the provision of community L15: Support planning for shared spaces GSC, DEC organisations, facilities, including open space providers

Improved education infrastructure NSW Property, L16: Support planning for school facilities DPE decision making DEC

L17: Support the provision of culturally Improved decision making with the GSC, AA appropriate services Aboriginal community

L18: Support planning for Contribute to improved decision making for DPE emergency services emergency services operators

L19: Support planning for cemeteries Improved decision making for new and CCNSW and crematoria existing cemeteries and cremetoria NORTH DISTRICT 7

Sustainability priorities and actions (Chapter 5) The proposed priorities and actions for a sustainable North District acknowledge the District’s diversity of landscapes – from busy urban areas, to the productive Metropolitan Rural Area, beachside suburbs and neighbourhoods ringed by bushland. As the District grows, it will build its efficiency and resilience, while enhancing its landscapes, waterways and biodiversity. The overarching priorities are:

• Enhancing the North District in its landscape • Protecting the District’s waterways • Managing coastal landscapes • Protecting and enhancing biodiversity • Delivering Sydney’s Green Grid • Managing the Metropolitan Rural Area • Creating an efficient North District • Planning for a resilient North District.

32,800 more single person 25,950 more dwellings by 2021 households by 2036 Dwellings Households

40% more 17% single person Couples with households children households NORTH DISTRICT 8

Sustainability actions

Action Outcome Lead agency Partners

S1: Review criteria for monitoring water Improved water quality and OEH GSC quality and waterway health waterway health

S2: Update information on areas of high Protection and management of areas of OEH, DPE Councils environmental value high environmental value

S3: Use funding programs to deliver the GSC, TfNSW, Delivery of the Green Grid priorities Councils North District Green Grid priorities OEH

S4: Develop support tools and Improved utilisation of open space and methodologies for local open space GSC increased provision of open space planning

S5: Update the Urban Green Cover in NSW Technical Guidelines to respond to solar Protection of solar access to roofs OEH, DPE access to roofs

S6: Identify land for future waste reuse and Identification of land for EPA, DPE Councils recycling waste management

Contribute to energy efficiency, S7: Embed the NSW Climate Change Policy reduced emissions and improved GSC Councils, OEH Framework into local planning decisions environmental performance

Contribute to energy efficiency, S8: Support the development of initiatives GSC, Councils, reduced emissions and improved for a sustainable low carbon future DPE environmental performance

NSW Climate S9: Support the development of Council, Contribute to improved environmental performance targets and GSC Australian environmental performance benchmarks Government, utility providers

S10: Incorporate the mitigation of the urban Contribute to reductions in ambient heat island effect into planning for urban DPE temperatures renewal projects and Priority Growth Areas

S11: Review the guidelines for air quality and Improved land use and transport noise measures for development near rail EPA, DPE decision making corridors and busy roads

S12: Identify and map potential high impact Improved land use and transport EPA DPE, Councils areas for noise and air pollution decision making

Key:

AA Aboriginal Affairs EPA Environment Protection Authority

CCNSW Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW GAO Government Architect’s Office

CHP Community Housing Providers GSC Greater Sydney Commission

DEC Department of Education OEH Office of Environment and Heritage

DoI Department of Industry TfNSW Transport for NSW

DPE Department of Planning and Environment NORTH DISTRICT 9 NORTH DISTRICT 10 NORTH DISTRICT 1 Introduction 11

This draft District Plan proposes a 20-year vision for the North District, which includes the Hornsby, Hunters Hill, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Northern Beaches, Mosman, North Sydney, Ryde and Willoughby local government areas. It has been developed by the Greater Sydney Commission in consultation with State agencies and the community and with technical input from councils.

The North District is in a unique position in Greater Sydney, with several important centres #GreaterSydney: that offer a diversity of jobs and industries, Insights from the community nestled within a landscape of waterways, Our conversations with the community bushland and beaches. Investment in new through our #GreaterSydney engagement transport and the Northern Beaches Hospital have provided valuable insights into what will provide greater opportunities for the people the community values about the District and who live and work here. what people want to see changed. We have sought to encapsulate these inputs into this Our work on this draft District Plan builds on draft District Plan. the District’s characteristics, while drawing on a robust body of technical material that looks The feedback so far highlights that people into Greater Sydney’s changing demographics, want more jobs, study opportunities and economy, housing, open spaces and many pathways to long-term employment. Better other characteristics. It also incorporates public transport, including more frequent feedback garnered through our #GreaterSydney bus and train services, is important, as is engagement during 2016. easing traffic congestion. People support more affordable housing and want to maintain a mix of housing options. They want to see investment in community infrastructure such as recreational facilities, walking and cycling paths, retail areas and quality open space. There is also a desire for more community activities and events, as well as community-led green spaces such as community gardens.

We see this draft District Plan as a first step in the planning for the North District. We want as many people as possible to continue to engage with us as we work to develop the draft District Plan further towards finalisation at the end of 2017.

We intend to achieve this by building collaboration and listening into everything we do. NORTH DISTRICT 12

1.1 The role of district planning This draft District Plan meets these requirements by: Planning in Greater Sydney has traditionally happened at two levels. The NSW Government • progressing the directions of developed overarching plans that considered A Plan for Growing Sydney the Greater Sydney’s growing population, where • identifying planning priorities for the people will live and what kinds of jobs and District and the actions to achieve them. transport they will need; while local government This draft District Plan translates and tailors developed local environmental plans to identify metropolitan planning priorities for each District how land can be used, including for housing, by giving effect to the four goals of A Plan for businesses and parks. Growing Sydney: What has been missing is the district-level • Goal 1: A competitive economy with planning that connects local planning with the world-class services and transport longer-term metropolitan planning for Greater Sydney. To facilitate this connection, Greater • Goal 2: A city of housing choice, with Sydney is designated into six Districts that homes that meet our needs and lifestyles represent neighbouring groups of council areas • Goal 3: A great place to live with with similar features and common communities communities that are strong, of interest. You can see a map of the six Districts healthy and well connected at our website www.greater.sydney. • Goal 4: A sustainable and resilient city that protects the natural environment and has a City planning is dynamic. In preparing this balanced approach to the use of land draft District Plan during 2016, we have been and resources. mindful of the changing technologies and To do this, this draft District Plan interweaves evolving thinking that will impact Greater these goals by describing proposed priorities Sydney to 2036. and actions for the District in terms of: The city-making implications of issues such • A productive city (Goal 1) as driverless cars, emerging business trends, climate change and housing affordability • A liveable city (Goals 2 and 3) will require further research and testing. • A sustainable city (Goals 3 and 4). For these reasons, this draft District Plan This draft District Plan is accompanied by a represents a moment in time but will, with draft amendment to A Plan for Growing Sydney, your feedback and our commitment to as noted in Section 1.1.1 and detailed in ongoing research, be a living document Chapter 2. to better navigate the issues influencing Greater Sydney to 2036.

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) requires each District Plan to:

• provide the basis for strategic planning in the District, having regard to economic, social and environmental matters • establish planning priorities that are consistent with the objectives, strategies and actions of A Plan for Growing Sydney • identify actions required to achieve those planning priorities. NORTH DISTRICT 13

“It is not a vaguely idealistic plan. It has been based on proven facts, and if its authors have looked upward to the stars they have kept PRODUCTIVE their feet upon the ground. We feel that it is a commonsense scheme, practical in its economics and finance.

SUSTAINABLE LIVEABLE “It recognises that, next to our people, the land is our greatest asset. Realisation of the Plan in measured stages will unlock the land for its best community use, so This draft District Plan includes three that present and future citizens may chapters focusing on the means to enhance be able to meet the challenge of the District’s productivity, sustainability advances in technology, economics, and liveability in accordance with A Plan social sciences and culture, and for Growing Sydney and the Commission’s secure their benefits for all.” mandate. County of Cumberland Plan, 1948 Many elements discussed in these chapters are interrelated. For example, the issue of housing is as much about liveability as it is about productivity and sustainability; As noted above, legislation requires district our planning for jobs is as important to planning to give consideration to the Greater a productive city as it is to liveable and Sydney Region Plan, currently A Plan for sustainable city. Growing Sydney. District planning must also consider priorities identified by the Minister for While we use chapters to discuss policy Planning and other relevant plans, strategies areas, we recognise that cohesive and and NSW Government policies including: vibrant cities have overlapping components and an integrated approach to city making is • the Premier’s and State Priorities (September crucial to success. 2015) that seek to create jobs, encourage business investment and increase housing supply • the Ministerial Statement of Priorities (January 2016) that includes strategic planning for Parramatta, Penrith, Liverpool and Campbelltown • updates to the State Infrastructure Plans for 2015/16 and 2016/17 • the Western Sydney City Deal (Memorandum of Understanding signed October 2016) • the initiatives of Jobs for NSW. These matters, which give greater clarity to Greater Sydney’s strategic planning framework, combined with the evolving nature of Greater Sydney, emerging technologies and the complexity and dynamism of city planning, have generated new thinking in strategic planning for Greater Sydney. NORTH DISTRICT 14

1.1.1 Draft amendment to Concurrent with the review of A Plan for A Plan for Growing Sydney Growing Sydney in 2017, Transport for To allow our planning for Greater Sydney to NSW will develop the Future Transport relate to our best understanding of the future, Strategy and Future Transport Services this draft District Plan introduces a longer- and Infrastructure Plan for Sydney and term, transformational focus on the patterns of Infrastructure NSW will review the State development needed for Greater Sydney to be Infrastructure Strategy. a productive, liveable and sustainable Global Given the important interconnected nature Sydney. This ambitious 40-year vision for Greater of these and other NSW Government Sydney as a metropolis of three cities is detailed strategies, the Commission, Transport for in Chapter 2. NSW and Infrastructure NSW will align work This 40-year vision is a draft amendment to programs to the end of 2017 to include: A Plan for Growing Sydney. It is on exhibition • inputs, assumptions and scenario alongside this draft District Plan so that analysis to inform the development feedback around the concept of Greater Sydney of the plans and strategies as a metropolis of three cities can inform the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney. You can • events for community and download a standalone version of the draft stakeholder engagement amendment, titled Towards our Greater Sydney • timeframes for key milestones. 2056 by visiting www.greater.sydney. This approach will not only allow for a better In this context, this draft District Plan and more integrated outcome for Greater foreshadows how the proposed amendment Sydney but a more transparent approach could influence planning for the District’s for stakeholders. productivity, liveability and sustainability while also giving effect to A Plan for Growing Sydney.

Figure 1-1: The regional and district planning process (2016-2017)

2016 2017

DISTRICT PLANS

Prepare draft District Plans Exhibit Aim to finalise

GREATER SYDNEY REGION PLAN Prepare Towards our STEP 1 Greater Sydney 2056* Exhibit

Prepare comprehensive review of STEP 2 Exhibit Aim to finalise A Plan for Growing Sydney

*Draft amendment to update A Plan for Growing Sydney (the initial Greater Sydney Region Plan)

Source: Greater Sydney Commission 2016 NORTH DISTRICT 15

1.1.2 What this draft District Plan Section 75AI of the Environmental Planning and means for local planning Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) requires local environment plans to be updated to give effect As a document for discussion, this draft District to each District Plan as soon as practicable after Plan proposes actions that could influence a District Plan is made. how different levels of government plan for the District, and how public and private investment This process may require a comprehensive decisions are made – directly influencing growth review or be staged to reflect the local and change. government area priorities identified in each District Plan, and to allow for more targeted For local government, this draft District Plan will: engagement on these priority areas. This • inform the preparation of local approach will also help councils to manage environmental plans resources. • inform planning proposals • guide strategic land use, transport and infrastructure planning across local government areas • inform infrastructure planning.

Planning principles hubs for business and employment are A Plan for Growing Sydney identified three ‘strategic centres’ and ‘transport gateways’. planning principles that remain current and These locations will be an important focus for underpin many of the priorities of this draft future growth because of their size, diversity District Plan. of activities, their connections (mainly to Principle 1: Increasing housing choice around the rail network), and the presence of major all centres through urban renewal institutional activities such as health and in established areas education facilities or Greater Sydney’s major airports and port. Increasing housing close to centres and stations makes it easier to walk or cycle to Principle 3: Connecting centres with a shops or services, and to travel to work or networked transport system other centres, reduces traffic congestion, The public transport network connects people and makes our neighbourhoods more Figure 1-1: The regional and district planning process (2016-2017) to centres. In doing this, it connects people community oriented. to jobs, education facilities, health centres Increasing the variety of housing available and hospitals, and sporting, cultural and 2016 2017 makes it easier for people to find a home that entertainment facilities. DISTRICT PLANS suits their lifestyle, household size and Centres rely on efficient transport to serve Prepare draft District Plans Exhibit Aim to finalise budget. their customers, support their growing Locating new housing in centres delivers a business and freight functions, and to connect to the global economy. GREATER SYDNEY REGION PLAN range of economic, environmental and social Prepare Towards our benefits to the community. Research by the Efficient links within centres improves STEP 1 Exhibit Greater Sydney 2056* Organisation for Economic Cooperation and convenience for customers, and efficient Development (OECD) has similarly found Prepare comprehensive review of links into centres and between centres helps STEP 2 Exhibit Aim to finalise A Plan for Growing Sydney that productivity benefits arise from a more people to get to jobs, schools, universities, compact city. shops and leisure activities. *Draft amendment to update A Plan for Growing Sydney (the initial Greater Sydney Region Plan) Principle 2: Stronger economic development Making it easy to get to centres and offering Source: Greater Sydney Commission 2016 in strategic centres and transport gateways a range of services at centres makes them a Locating jobs in around 30 to 40 large centres focal point for the community, and increases across Greater Sydney provides the greatest prospects for economic growth and benefits to the city’s overall productivity. job creation. Greater Sydney’s largest and most important NORTH DISTRICT 16

1.1.3 Status of the draft District Plan While councils are required to give effect to District Plans as soon as practicable after a District Plan is made, draft District Plans will guide the preparation of planning proposals under Part 3 of the Act. This is established by the Department of Planning and Environment’s Guide to Preparing Planning Proposals (August 2016). The Guide lists assessment criteria for a planning proposal, which include but are not limited to consideration of the strategic merit of the proposal, the site-specific merit of the proposal and consistency with strategic plans, including draft District Plans, State environmental planning policies and Ministerial directions. Local environmental plans will continue to determine whether development is permitted or prohibited on land. While a draft District Plan or District Plan is not a mandatory matter for consideration in the determination of a development application, a consent authority may decide to consider a draft District Plan or District Plan to the extent it relates to the objects of the EP&A Act. The inclusion of Our vision – Towards our Greater Sydney 2056 in Chapter 2 of this draft District Plan foreshadows our research and the evolution of our thinking that will inform the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney during 2017. It does not replace the legal status of A Plan for Growing Sydney as the current Greater Sydney Region Plan. NORTH DISTRICT 17

1.2 Implementation As the Commission is an independent agency, some actions and priorities included within this The final District Plan will be formally reviewed draft District Plan may not be NSW Government every five years, but as a living document, we policy and may be subject to a business plan. plan to update it more regularly in response to new government infrastructure, policies, emerging trends or other factors influencing 1.2.2 Planning for land use and its currency. infrastructure As Greater Sydney grows, we need to more 1.2.1 Managing implementation efficiently and effectively align land use planning and infrastructure investment. This is This draft District Plan identifies a number of one of our key objectives. It forms the basis of implementation mechanisms. the work we have commenced with State and local government to identify the infrastructure Existing government policies required to deliver this draft District Plan and and actions that may be improved through stronger prioritise it by place and time. collaboration or the clarity Our insights, as described within this draft provided from district-level Existing actions District Plan, are drawn from our knowledge of: planning. • existing NSW Government infrastructure New actions that will be the commitments and existing Commission’s responsibility to investigation areas for new housing lead and deliver. Our actions • forecasts in terms of population increases and locations where growth is New collaborations that the anticipated, including jobs in centres Commission will lead and • annual monitoring of changes in deliver in partnership with development activities across Greater local government and/or New Sydney, with a primary focus on housing. collaborations State agencies. With these insights, we can provide greater clarity around the future location of new land New actions that are the uses in Greater Sydney. This feeds into the responsibility of State planning for infrastructure, from city-shaping agencies, with the relevant NSW infrastructure such as new rail lines that are Government agency identified. actions usually planned by the NSW Government, to local infrastructure such as local roads or Priorities designed to provide parks and community facilities that are usually guidance for strategic planned by councils. planning or plan making For NSW Government infrastructure planning, Planning by the relevant planning we will utilise our cross-agency Infrastructure Priorities authority. Delivery Committee to facilitate collaboration Specific parts of Greater on infrastructure issues across districts and Sydney identified as Greater Sydney. We will also develop an Collaboration Areas, where Annual Infrastructure Priority List for the NSW a significant productivity, liveability or sustainability Government to inform decision-making on outcome is achieved through infrastructure provision at a State, district and Collaboration the collaboration of different local level. areas levels of government and in some cases the private sector or landowners.

NORTH DISTRICT 18

For local government infrastructure planning, When new or upgraded infrastructure is our insights into expected and actual growth provided in an area, many of these benefits are in housing can present an opportunity for effectively monetised because local land values councils to align their capital programs and increase, reflecting the market’s willingness to infrastructure scheduling, and collaborate pay for these benefits. Value sharing enables across council or district boundaries as the funder of the infrastructure – for example, required. This will assist the timely delivery the NSW Government or a local council – to of infrastructure, make the best use of public participate in the market uplift and offset some resources, and could ultimately lead to stronger of its costs. coordination between State and local planning If properly executed, value sharing can: for infrastructure and land uses. • unlock new funding to make economically Action IM1: Align land use planning and beneficial infrastructure more affordable infrastructure planning • spread the costs of new infrastructure To support the efficient and effective more equitably among its beneficiaries alignment of land use planning and • improve projects by providing infrastructure: incentives for governments to plan • the Commission will prepare an Annual and design infrastructure with wider Infrastructure Priority List in conjunction land use benefits in mind. with Infrastructure NSW to support the We recognise that, like all regulation and productivity, liveability and sustainability interventions in the market, value sharing of the District as it grows, consistent with mechanisms need to be equitable while also Action 1.11.6 of A Plan for Growing Sydney. being efficient in terms of their operation and compliance. Value sharing mechanisms 1.2.3 Infrastructure funding also need to be effective in terms of meeting and delivery objectives in a timely manner. Infrastructure is presently funded through a Value sharing mechanisms will only succeed range of mechanisms: with clarity around the planned infrastructure • the NSW Government Budget including: and how this will be funded – whether partially or wholly by the value sharing mechanism – -- agency programs for education, health or what elements or areas will be funded in and transport response to the development (for example, -- funding programs such as the Housing whether the shared funding will go towards Acceleration Fund, Metropolitan open space and public areas, community Greenspace Program and infrastructure, roads or upgrades to utilities). Environmental Trust It also requires an understanding of the total • Australian Government funding amount, duration and rate of value sharing • State infrastructure contributions (such as dollars per square metre) that can be • local infrastructure investment set while maintaining the financial feasibility • local development contributions of development. In some areas, this could and associated programs mean that rezoning may be delayed until development is feasible, given the amount of • voluntary planning agreements. supporting infrastructure required. In addition to these mechanisms is the concept of value capture or ‘sharing’. Value A number of NSW Government-led urban sharing uses part of the economic uplift that renewal areas, priority precincts and priority new infrastructure and planning generates to growth areas are addressing this through the help fund that infrastructure. New transport use of infrastructure schedules. infrastructure, for example, can unlock a number of ‘benefit streams’, including direct transport benefits such as reduced travel times, and wider benefits such as reduced congestion

NORTH DISTRICT and lower fuel consumption. 19

We will continue to work across government Action IM2: Develop a framework to on the amount, mechanisms and purpose monitor growth and change in of value sharing to create a more consistent Greater Sydney approach to capturing value for public As the District Plan is finalised benefit, complementary with other existing alongside the review of A Plan for mechanisms. Growing Sydney and other strategic planning documents, we will have a 1.2.4 Monitoring stronger understanding of the metrics to measure Greater Sydney’s economic, social and The Greater Sydney Dashboard environmental performance. The Greater Sydney Dashboard will be an To do this we will: interactive web-based tool that will provide access to indicators for cross-District issues • develop a framework for the monitoring such as jobs and housing targets to assist and reporting of the final Regional and decision-making. It will be used to gain District Plans that will consider the issues insights from our collaborations and build on and outcomes from actions and priorities. evidence already commissioned by various Action IM3: Develop an interactive State agencies and councils. The Dashboard information hub – the Greater Sydney will also include a data store to assist Dashboard decision-making and strategic planning. To provide access to the latest data across a range of metrics, we will:

Monitoring the growth and change of Greater • develop the Greater Sydney Sydney is critical to inform planning. A Plan Dashboard to include data and measures for Growing Sydney requires us to establish a across a range of city-making areas, from monitoring and reporting process to check on population figures to environmental outputs. progress against the actions identified in our Action IM4: Report on local planning strategic planning documents. The Greater Sydney Dashboard will Our Greater Sydney Dashboard will include also monitor the implementation of indicators that outline how Greater Sydney each District Plan’s actions and and the District are performing against priorities. In the first instance, this will this draft District Plan’s aspirations. In line involve each council reporting to the with the requirement of A Plan for Growing Commission under section 75AI of the Sydney, we are investigating metrics in terms EP&A Act on: of Greater Sydney’s productivity, liveability and sustainability. We will include specific • its review of relevant local environmental environmental reporting on: plans to give effect to the District Plan as made • carbon emissions across Greater Sydney, • the preparation of planning proposals in accordance with the C40 (Carbon under section 55 of the EP&A Act to give Disclosure Protocol) requirements effect to the draft and final District Plans. • potable water consumption, water recycling and wastewater production across Greater Sydney • air quality across Greater Sydney. NORTH DISTRICT 20

1.3 Next steps can be implemented. We need industry to tell us if they’ll be willing to invest in the required This draft District Plan and the supporting housing and workplaces and to do so to world- Our vision - Towards our Greater Sydney 2056 class standards. We need State agencies to are on formal public exhibition until the end of confirm that the proposed priorities and actions March 2017. align with their portfolio’s longer-term planning. Public exhibition is an opportunity for people A range of engagement activities will help the to contribute to the future of the North District public to get involved in the future of the North by providing direct feedback on the proposed District – visit the dedicated engagement portal priorities and actions in this draft District Plan. at www.greater.sydney to find out more. The draft District Plan will not be finalised until at least the end of 2017 to allow it to be aligned This is an opportunity to participate in the with the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney story of Our Sydney, your home. in 2017. Importantly, this will also provide the opportunity for newly-elected councillors to amalgamated councils to comment. 'By far the greatest and most We need the community to tell us if our plans admirable form of wisdom is that create the right places for them. We need needed to plan and beautify cities business to tell us if they think they will be and human communities.' competitive and can offer new jobs within Socrates these proposed settings. We need strategic planning practitioners to tell us if the plans NORTH DISTRICT 21

KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS AT A GLANCE For more terms see the glossary at the end of this document or at www.greater.sydney

Greater Sydney is defined as the 33 local Sydney City includes the contiguous areas government areas of Bayside, Blacktown, of Sydney CBD, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Blue Mountains, Burwood, Camden, Pyrmont, The Bays Precinct, Camperdown- Campbelltown, Canada Bay, Canterbury- Ultimo Health and Education, Central to Bankstown, Cumberland, Fairfield, Georges Eveleigh, Surry Hills and Sydney East. River, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Hunters Hill, Greater Parramatta includes Parramatta Inner West, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Liverpool, City, and the precincts of Westmead, Mosman, Northern Beaches, North Sydney, Parramatta North, Rydalmere and Camellia. Parramatta, Penrith, Randwick, Ryde, Parramatta City covers the central business Strathfield, Sutherland, The City of Sydney, district of Parramatta. The Hills, Waverley, Willoughby, Wollondilly and Woollahra. Strategic centres have one or more of the following characteristics: Eastern City: The metropolis of three cities includes the established Eastern City, which • a higher proportion of knowledge- spans the North, Central and South Districts economy jobs, principally relating to and the strategic centres Northern Beaches the presence of major hospitals, tertiary Hospital, Macquarie Park (also associated education institutions, standalone office with Central City), Chatswood, St Leonards, development or a combination of these North Sydney, Sydney City, Randwick Health • the presence of existing or proposed and Education, Green Square-Mascot, major transport gateways Sydney Airport, Port Botany and Kogarah. • a major role in supporting the Central City: The metropolis of three increased economic activity of the cities includes the developing Central City, Eastern, Central or Western Cities. which is anchored by Greater Parramatta Strategic centres also tend to have over and the Olympic Peninsula (GPOP) in the 20,000 jobs. West Central District, and the strategic District centres play a significant district role centres of Blacktown (also associated with due to the presence of one or more of the Western City), Norwest, Macquarie Park (also following characteristics: associated with Eastern City) and Rhodes. • the scale of retail activity, generally over The metropolis of three Western City: 50,000 square metres of floor space cities includes the emerging Western City focused on the proposed Western Sydney • the presence of health and Airport. The Western City will encompass the education facilities that serve the West and South West Districts and include district and the local community the strategic centres of Penrith, Liverpool, • the level of transport services. Campbelltown-Macarthur and Blacktown District centres also generally have between (also associated with Central City). 5,000 to 10,000 jobs. Global Sydney is the combination of the Western, Central and Eastern Cities. NORTH DISTRICT 22 NORTH DISTRICT 23

2 Our vision Towards our Greater Sydney 2056 Our 40-year vision to enable a more productive, liveable and sustainable Greater Sydney

This chapter outlines a draft amendment to A changing, growing A Plan for Growing Sydney that aligns with the vision established by this draft District Greater Sydney Plan. It is the first step in the comprehensive work that will take place next year to review Think about Greater Sydney as you know it A Plan for Growing Sydney. today. Not only has it completely transformed in its structure and role from when it first This amendment reconceptualises Greater flourished in the 19th Century, it has already Sydney as a metropolis of three cities, and surpassed the ambitious city on the Harbour is presented with this draft District Plan to that spread its reach and created its new reflect the most contemporary thinking suburbs throughout the 20th Century. about Greater Sydney’s future. As a draft for consideration, this allows the community Today, Greater Sydney is an economic and stakeholders to provide feedback to powerhouse, generating nearly a quarter of the draft District Plan while understanding Australia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). the context of an emerging Greater Sydney, Its economy – at $378 billion per year – is which will inform our review during 2017. bigger than the combined value of Australia’s manufacturing, mining and construction You can read a standalone version of this industries (Figure 2-1). Its financial strengths chapter by visiting www.greater.sydney. make it a great place for business.

Figure 2-1: Greater Sydney GDP compared to national industries (2015)

400 Sydney GDP 350 $378 National GDP $344 300 $326 250

200 $184 GDP ($ billion) 150

100 $142

0 Sydney GDP Mining, Professional Health and Wholesale, manufacturing services education transport and and construction warehousing

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Catalogue, 5204.0 Australian System of National Accounts NORTH DISTRICT 24 NORTH DISTRICT without the need to travel long distances. to distances. travel long need without the communities that greater provide opportunities sustainable and connected allow more for they as benefits environmental social and with butalso with productivity improved only not structures We these associate are organised. activity of economic areas different it how how distributed is and located, is activity alternatives economic in of where terms Sydney. global leading cities Instead, develop like district Greater centrallarge business that are asingle orientatedknow around few to we Looking global comparable cities, layout right. to Greater get spatial and Sydney’s structure like economy Australia’sIn acity-based need we heart. than rather geographic at its edge, centre at city the geographic the sits when continue Greater particularly as Sydney grows, centre city one cannotyet on asingular focus it well, served centred Sydney on –has City network transport the and activity economic Greater Sydney’s current –with structure districts. its ever-changing across suburbs and main streets to busy settings, to bushland beachside from choices, of lifestyle diversity that a places many provide local offers It also credentials. cultural artistic and (NIDA) Art Dramatic −highlight Greater Sydney’s National and of NSW Institute Gallery of Art Art, of Contemporary Museum the House, Opera institutions Sydney the such as world-renowned Australian (ASX). Securities Exchange Other Bank of Australia and Reserve the such as to key home national and institutions sector CBD, epicentre the is of Australia’s financial City, Eastern Sydney traditionallyIts as known million which includes 2.4 workers. people, Greater 4.7 to Sydney million nearly home is

about an area that had been neglected. an that area been about had thinking transformed and heart geographic Greater Sydney’sevent regenerated –they than a sporting more were Games Olympic The rich cultural establishing and world offerings. the across from visitors attracting global stage, it putGreater –instead, a show Sydney the on aplace to as see developed just not was House Opera in The future. the confidence its and itsouth: signalled Greater Sydney’s maturity and north between aconnection than just more was buildingThe Bridge of Harbour the Games. Sydney 2000 Olympic the and House Sydney the Bridge, Opera Harbour rarer. of Sydney the Think significance the about ability to the even is them and grab history in are rare Greater Sydney’s moments These transformation. positive its shape to moment right the is now structure, geographic Sydney’s of Greater challenges fundamental the to respond to need the and investments planned of pipeline astrong growth, population and economic strong to Thanks centres. of smaller, liveable highly assets lifestyle the sharing also while competitive globally is that acity place: rare that Sydney is Greater to choices. employment uneven access and affordability of rates housing lower congestion, of higher levels such as constraints capacity created has living in west, the of people number with combined an increasing in east, jobs the of Greater Sydney’s of location the majority the Compare this with Greater Sydney. Already, powerhouse.' economic global differentiated and adiverse to be a real opportunity Greater gives Sydney Sydney Airport, by Western catalysed City, Western emergence the of the and City Central the of development The industries. production advanced and technology, innovation, education, embraces also that towards abroader story focus City Eastern corporate services and professional current its from economic brand global its develop ‘Greater Sydney potential the to has Sydney. Global create will collectively that ametropolis cities: of three metropolis into a Sydney maturing Greater for plan and conceive to Put simply, time the nowis region. Greater city Sydney’s second GPOP) to(referred as as role will its develop Peninsula Olympic the and Greater Parramatta the continues, of Sydney the in east the City success the as and to emerge starts Airport Sydney Western the around activity economic new the As network. transport supporting Sydney, asustainable to for plan now need we in Western expected of growth with scale the Given magnitude the of this together change, of jobs. of tens thousands years, in 40 provide, around Greater for changer Sydney agame willis and This investment in Sydney Western the Airport. – that it this motivates planned the approach, is in time moment If asingle –one is change there citizens.future all existing and in that away structure benefits Greater Sydney’s to spatial shift an opportunity WeWe point. have are at atransformational opportunity generation once-in-a- The Greg Clark, advisor urbanist global and on cities and investment citieson and as shown in 2-2. Figure shown as these cities polycentric approach, –agenuine these between connections and places many local in cities three the and assets outstanding the at looking instead approach –and monocentric –a district single centralstrong business bySydney an economically aplace anchored as thinking away from of Greater ashift This means the Western Sydney Airport, and the the and Sydney Western the Airport, immediately areas the around incorporates that aerotropolis ineconomy emerging the intended is to drive anew Sydney Deal City Western The investment partnership. and in nation’s the what is ever planning largest outer Sydney Western for transport better and housing more jobs, 100,000 almost to deal deliver agenerational Deal, City of Sydney aWestern development the on to government with work local have agreed Governments NSW AustralianThe and Deal City Sydney Western • • • • to: pledges Sydney Western Deal The City region. broader vibrant arts and cultural and initiatives. vibrant arts clean air, support spaces, green all of levels government three streamliningand across approvals well, done planning density and through better housing increase skillsand development training Aboriginal and youth on with afocus services, and to homes closer jobs deliver more time with more their families can spend people so congestion, traffic reduce and publicinvestment to transport increase additionaltarget infrastructure

NORTH DISTRICT 26 NORTH DISTRICT Source: 2-2:Figure Greater Sydney Commission, 2016 Commission, Greater Sydney cities: ofthree A metropolis Global Sydney. Global industries. education-related and in medical practice willprecinct continue best to lead grow and health education and Westmead the and centres, Sydney’s administrative business and it 2036, of Greater By will one be advantages. greatest of its metropolitan will one location be identity. central of its Its akey is aspect heritage significant and colonialan early settlement Historically, is years. Parramatta back 30,000 occupationAboriginal of this dates area 10 to over next 15 the years. transformation urban significant to most the experience City developing the cities, Central three the Of the landscape. occupationAboriginal interaction with and of evidence include significant foreshores Harbour The Domain. the and Gardens MacquariePoint, Street Royal the Botanic and Millers Rocks, The such as precincts heritage contains city significant established The branding. and global industries City’s of Eastern the continued the enable and growth support planning Our must tackling congestion. Sydney and near land City government-owned City, of Eastern the renewal the such as to enhance are manyThere opportunities jobs. of knowledge-intensive proportion harbour, alarge and suburbs sought-after –with abeautiful innovation sectors start-up and services professional and business financial, in the –especially engine It an is economic to Kogarah. Botany Port and through Sydneysouth Airport through to Macquarie Park and north to its corridors economic Sydney and City established City Eastern established The city. equitable and sustainable to productive, to move amore industry and of government priorities the and It willby 2056. decision-making guide future Sydney an eight as million-strong metropolis in Greater planning the for strategy organising acentral as cities of three metropolis acts The with GPOP at its heart is anticipated is heart at with its GPOP is the currently the is

of centres: strategic, district and local. local. and district of centres: strategic, types three which defines centres proposed, is A Plan for Growing Sydney of approach to the centresa reconsideration in to citiesSydney of led three ametropolis has as of Greater centralThis new strategy organising call home. to will create want to aplace people needed jobs and infrastructure social and transport housing, diverse and with affordable City Western emerging the to furnish opportunity the will offer SydneyWestern Airport by the generated growth economic The Campbelltown-Macarthur. and Liverpool centresthe of Penrith, Blacktown, of citizens thousands the for in opportunities greater and of jobs social greater diversity of creating advantage a strategic the will offer City Western also emerging The Greater Sydney. of area of an extensive structure and shape the to change will opportunity the provide catalyst this major time in years, over 100 first the For emerging Western City. of emerging the focus will the be Sydney Western the 2056, Airport By Westernemerging City. the and City Eastern to established the capacity transport and connections transport strong It in. critical is around that has Central the City place to to move will an get easier and be investments, transport with and, planned brand will global own build its jobs, smart 21st Century for opportunities more It will offer enterprises. innovation-driven and manufacturing advanced for area It will an important be . A new hierarchy. Anew of

NORTH DISTRICT 28 NORTH DISTRICT • • • Incommunities. brief: to local provision well service as as productivity contribution to Greater and Sydney’s job growth and in of scale terms centres vary These A 30-minute city A 30-minute jobs smart with A city city A growing Sydney Productive A and services for local catchments. local for services and jobs of local centres havelocal arange populations district that support services facilities and centresdistrict have jobs, Central Cities Western and Eastern, the of success the and jobs with smart a city support to specifically needed location and industries have scale, the gateways, including centres, strategic transport A Liveable Sydney Liveable A A collaborative city A collaborative diversity and choice ofhousing A city city polycentric equitable, An table below.table in the summarised of metropolitan priorities, through anumber delivered can be This vision efficiency. and Greater Sydney’s natural resilience environment, on allowing and afocus liveable lifestyle and fair underpinning economy a productive a strong, it has when to manner in develop asustainable that Greater Sydney likelyacknowledges more is integration It cities. of of three ametropolis environmental and social economic, the Greater for Sydney vision Our to 2056 represents A resilient city resilient A city efficient An landscape in its A city A Sustainable Sydney Sustainable A 29

NORTH DISTRICT 30 NORTH DISTRICT 3 A Productive City 31

'Successful cities grow. Cities that attract jobs, investment, institutions, tourists, will also attract population, both from within their countries and from abroad. Population growth is a hallmark of city success but it brings with it critical choices and challenges that must be addressed.' Greg Clark, urbanist and global advisor on cities and investment

A growing Greater Sydney needs to remain 3.1 The North District’s economy internationally competitive with a diversity of The North District’s economy is focused on jobs in locations people can easily access. the cluster of centres from North Sydney to This draft District Plan outlines the proposed Macquarie Park, as well as the population- priorities and actions to drive the North District’s driven economy of the Northern Beaches. The productive economy. It draws on A Plan for strategic centres of North Sydney, St Leonards, Growing Sydney’s Goal 1, which seeks to grow a Chatswood, Macquarie Park and Northern competitive economy with world-class services Beaches are linked to the Eastern City and play and transport, as well as the priorities from an important economic role in supporting the Our vision - Towards our Greater Sydney 2056. growth of Sydney as a global city. The North District is home to 19% of Greater Sydney’s population and accommodates 20% of The North District Productivity Profile its jobs. Over the past two decades, the District’s The North District Productivity Profile population grew by 23%, and employment grew describes the District’s economy in terms of by about 37%. employment growth, types and locations, The District’s jobs are categorised as economic output and other data. This knowledge-intensive and professional jobs, informs the way we plan for the District’s health and education jobs, population-serving economy and the type of jobs that the jobs and industrial jobs. This categorisation District will need to accommodate in helps us to understand why different types of the future. industries locate in different parts of Greater You can view the full Productivity Profile by Sydney. visiting www.greater.sydney. A summary is Our analysis shows that the North District provided in section 3.1. currently contains a higher proportion of employment in knowledge and professional services compared to the Greater Sydney average (35% compared to 32%) and health and education (21% compared to 19%). NORTH DISTRICT 32

This profile reflects the role of the District Figure 3-2 shows the spatial distribution of in accommodating major concentrations economic activity across Greater Sydney, of knowledge-intensive jobs in the strategic measured by Gross Value Added (GVA). GVA centres linked to the Eastern City, as well as measures the value of goods and services in a the health and education assets including, particular area. The main focus for economic for example, Royal North Shore Hospital. activity in the North District is its strategic There are significant opportunities to build on centres. these existing strengths as Sydney’s economy These significant concentrations of economic continues to grow. activity across the District are also areas of As mentioned earlier, over the past two high labour productivity (illustrated in Figure decades, employment across the North 3-3). Labour productivity is a measure of the District grew by 37%. This compares to an efficient use of resources. Areas with high labour employment growth rate of 42% across Greater productivity generate higher economic value Sydney over the same period. Employment per hour worked. The spatial distribution of growth has occurred across all four sectors, productivity can help build an understanding with the most significant growth in health and of important economic places as well as the education (73%), followed by knowledge and profile of economic activity in a particular area. professional services (39%), population-serving The North District’s strategic and district centres (35%) and industrial (3%). In terms of absolute play a crucial role in the Greater Sydney context, employment, the greatest increase in jobs was and have distinct employment profiles: experienced in knowledge and professional services (46,800 new jobs), and health and • In the southern area, employment is largely education (43,800 new jobs), reinforcing the role concentrated in the corridor of economic of these sectors in the North District’s economy activity between North Sydney and and their significance to the Greater Sydney’s Macquarie Park, with more than 190,000 economy. jobs within the four strategic centres: Between 2011 and 2015 the North District’s -- Macquarie Park: contains over 58,500 economy grew by about 13%, the same as jobs (2016) and in terms of floor space is Greater Sydney's. the largest metropolitan office market in Greater Sydney. It has grown as a major centre for knowledge and professional

Table 3-1: North District: Historical population and employment growth (1996 – 2016)

Population Employment

2016 1996-2016 2016 1996-2016 1996 Projection % Growth 1996 Projection % Growth

North District 720,950 886,550 23% 353,500 483,330 37%

Greater Sydney 3,553,100 4,682,000 32% 1,722,700 2,439,800 42%

Source: (Population) Department of Planning & Environment, 2016 New South Wales State and Local Government Area Population and Household. Projections and Implied Dwelling Requirements 2016 to 2036, NSW Government, Sydney; (Jobs) Transport Performance & Analytics (TPA) (formerly known as Bureau of Transport Statistics), Transport for NSW, Greater Sydney Employment Forecasts, 2011 to 2041 (2016 Release), NSW Government, Sydney. NORTH DISTRICT 33

services employment, which represents • The northern and coastal area includes over one third of jobs in the centre. centres that accommodate jobs mainly -- North Sydney: is an established to service the local population, as well as commercial centre with good some employment and urban services accessibility which contains land. Access to and between these centres approximately 60,400 jobs (2016). is hampered by the geography of the Its main strength is in financial and District and limited mass transit. The main professional services, media and strategic centre in this area of the North telecommunications. District will be the new Northern Beaches Hospital. The centre contains 9,300 jobs -- St Leonards: contains over (2016) with the future focus to be on health 47,000 jobs (2016) with the majority and related services associated with the within knowledge and professional hospital, which is expected to open in 2018. services and health care. There is strong demand for residential land in the area which is competing with commercial floor space and there is a need for a clear direction for the centre which encompasses its role as both a commercial and health precinct (including the Royal North Shore Hospital). -- Chatswood: is a centre containing over 24,000 jobs (2016) with the majority in retail, knowledge and professional services. Chatswood has increasing pressure for commercial land to be rezoned for residential uses and a clear direction is needed to ensure Chatswood’s role as a strategic centre is maintained.

Figure 3-1: Employment profile by sector in North District vs Greater Sydney (2016)

35% 19 % % 14 % 32 Knowledge and Professional Services Population Serving Sectors Health and Education % 30% 19 Industrial Sectors % 21 30%

North District Greater Sydney

Source: Transport Performance & Analytics (TPA) (formerly known as Bureau of Transport Statistics), Transport for NSW, Greater Sydney Employment Forecasts, 2011 to 2041 (2016 Release), NSW Government, Sydney. NORTH DISTRICT 34

Figure 3-2 North District’s Gross Value Added (2015)

Strategic Centre Gross value added ($ Million) 460-1,390

District Centre less than 90 1,390-62,400

District Boundary 90-250 greater than 62,400

Waterways 250-460

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Catalogue 5204.0, Australian System of National Accounts

Employment, industrial and urban services 3.1.1 Access to jobs land in the North District represents 4% of Our research shows that during the morning Greater Sydney’s current supply. As this land can peak, approximately 16% of Greater Sydney’s accommodate local employment opportunities, jobs are accessible to North District residents important urban services and flexible space for within 30 minutes by public transport or private businesses, its retention is essential. vehicle. This is the same as the 16% average across Greater Sydney (See Figure 3-4). From an economic perspective, having access to a larger number of jobs means greater potential for jobs and skill matching, more opportunities for skill and knowledge development, and, ultimately, better outcomes for households and the overall economy. NORTH DISTRICT 35

Figure 3-3: North District’s labour productivity (2015)

Strategic Centre Labour productivity ($/hour) 55-100

District Centre 25-44 greater than 100

District Boundary 44-50

Waterways 50-55

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Catalogue 5204.0, Australian System of National Accounts

Access to employment for many residents of The District already has a higher than average the North District is primarily provided by the use of public transport for journey to work North Shore, Northern and Western Line (T1) (Figure 3-5) and the completion of the Sydney and numerous bus and ferry services. The North Metro project and other key public transport Shore, Northern and Western Line provides projects will further reinforce these patterns. access to the strategic centres in the district On the Northern Beaches, access to jobs is including Macquarie Park, Chatswood, relatively constrained. Addressing this challenge St Leonards and North Sydney, as well as Sydney requires investigations of both east-west and City. These connections also enable business north-south transit improvements and the to business interactions and allow businesses attraction of local business investment to access a significant labour market. This has and activity. played a crucial role in driving growth along the rail corridor, and has strengthened the strategic centres. NORTH DISTRICT 36

Figure 3-4: North District residents' access to jobs during the AM peak (2016)

40%

35%

30%

25%

20% Greater Sydney average-16% 15%

10%

5% Proportion of jobs accessible within 30 min

0% Central North West Central South South West West

Source: Transport Performance & Analytics (TPA) (formally known as Bureau of Transport Statistics), Transport for NSW, Strategic Travel Model (STM) outputs, 2016, NSW Government, Sydney.

Figure 3-5: North District journey to work by mode (2011) Greater Sydney North District

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Train Ferry Motorbike Walked only

Bus Car Bicycle

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011 Census of Population & Housing NORTH DISTRICT 37

3.1.2 Economic opportunities The North District is well placed to take The full list of productivity priorities covered in advantage of unparalleled economic assets and this chapter are outlined below. opportunities, including:

• its proximity and access to the Sydney City • Managing employment and thanks to the rail network and strategic urban services land bus corridors across Sydney Harbour -- Protect and support employment and significant planned and committed • urban services land investment in public infrastructure such as Sydney Metro, NorthConnex • Planning for job target ranges in and the Northern Beaches Hospital strategic and district centres -- Plan for the growth of centres • growing employment centres Optimising the productivity benefits • natural and cultural assets, and the potential • to grow tourism and visitation to the District of Sydney Metro to create new smart jobs in strategic centres • the continued growth of Greater Parramatta and the Olympic Peninsula (GPOP), -- Growing economic activity in centres which offers potential access to a wider -- Manage growth and change in network of job and economic activity. strategic and district centres and, as relevant, local centres While these assets present significant opportunities as drivers of economic activity -- Planning priorities for district and local and diversity in the District, there are a number centres of challenges such as pressure on employment, -- Planning for retail floor space provision industrial and urban services lands, pressure on and demand in the North District commercial floor space in strategic centres, as -- Prioritise the provision of retail floor well as connectivity and amenity constraints space in centres that will need to be addressed to ensure the • Prioritising Northern Beaches Hospital District realises its potential. as the catalyst for a new centre • Accessing a greater number of metropolitan 3.1.3 District priorities jobs and centres within 30 minutes This chapter outlines the productivity priorities • Accessing local jobs, goods and and actions for the North District. services within 30 minutes The priorities are presented in two ways. • Coordinating freight activities Firstly, each heading outlines a priority area, and with land use planning we provide context and detail to expand on the • Growing the tourism economy. outcomes sought. Some headings cover factual issues only; these are not included in the list below. Secondly, within the broad priority areas there are, in many cases, more detailed priorities. We identify the specific purpose of these priorities in each case by detailing how they relate to strategic planning and planning proposals. The priorities should be considered in strategic planning activities and planning proposals as appropriate. NORTH DISTRICT 38

3.2 Managing employment and Employment and urban services land supports urban services land activities that are critical to Greater Sydney’s productivity, sustainability and liveability. In this context Greater Sydney’s existing industrial, Employment and urban services land manufacturing, warehousing and distribution In 2006, the Employment Lands Taskforce industries contribute to its role as Australia’s defined employment land as “zoned for manufacturing capital. Furthermore, good industrial or similar purposes in planning access to urban services locally reduces the instruments [and] generally lower need to travel to other areas, minimising density employment areas containing congestion of the land transport system. concentrations of businesses involved in As such, we need to ensure that our manufacturing; transport and warehousing; employment and urban services lands are service and repair trades and industries; efficiently managed and protected across integrated enterprises with a mix of Greater Sydney and within the North District. administration, production, warehousing, In 2015, 567 hectares of the North District were research and development; and urban zoned for employment and urban services land. services and utilities”. This land is spread across 42 separate precincts From 2008, Employment Lands were representing 4% of Greater Sydney’s total categorised into precincts. With the stock of employment and urban services land. implementation of the Standard Instrument Only 8% (43 hectares) of the North District’s Local Environmental Plan, these precincts employment and urban services lands were can now include other business zones that undeveloped in 2015. permit a number of industrial uses. Table 3-2 lists large employment and urban In this draft District Plan, the Commission service areas (more than 30 hectares) in has replaced the term ‘Employment Land’ the North District by local government with ‘employment and urban services land’. area, based on the Department of Planning While this still describes the same type of and Environment’s Employment Lands land, the terminology reflects the evolving Development Program 2015. In addition to nature of employment areas, the jobs and the larger precincts identified in Table 3-2, economic activity they generate, and the the District also contains smaller parcels of way they support urban areas and industries employment land that are important to the (for example, by providing land for data District’s economy. centres, utilities and distribution centres) as well as local residents (for example, by providing land for panel beaters, council depots, vehicle repairs and household trades). NORTH DISTRICT 39

Table 3-2: Major employment and urban services land (larger than 30 hectares) in the North District (January 2015)

Undeveloped Developed land LGA Precinct land (hectares) (hectares) Total(hectares)

Hornsby Asquith 4.9 39.3 44.2

Mount Ku-ring-gai 12.7 51.2 63.9

Lane Cove Lane Cove West 5.7 44.8 50.5

Northern Brookvale 0.0 86.1 86.1 Beaches Cromer 0.1 44.1 44.2

Willoughby Artarmon 4.3 59.4 63.7

Source: Department of Planning and Environment, Employment Lands Development Program (2015)

Our research shows that the nature of These lands, however are under threat of erosion employment and urban services land in North by alternative uses (and in financial terms – District is changing as technologies and new higher and better uses) such as residential or industries emerge. The precincts are evolving retail. By way of example, since 2011, 9 hectares into agglomerations of a mix of businesses of employment and urban services land in the as distinct from ‘industrial’ land. This trend is District have been rezoned for other uses. consistent with many other parts of the Greater Such rezonings have the potential to create Sydney Region, particularly east of Parramatta. longer term growth and productivity While some traditional industrial activities implications on Greater Sydney. On this basis, continue to be located in the North District’s our priority is to take a precautionary approach employment and urban services land precincts, to the conversion of employment and urban there has also been a significant increase in service lands in the absence of a District-wide other types of business in these precincts. For assessment of their value and objectives. example, high value urban manufacturing uses We will prioritise additional work in have become common in some precincts, collaboration with councils to explore and, particularly those close to strategic centres. This where appropriate, verify this precautionary has enabled an intensification of land use in approach and step away from the industrial some areas and a rise in demand for industrial lands checklist suggested by A Plan for Growing strata units. There is also increasing pressure on Sydney. This will be part of our review in 2017. a number of employment and urban services land precincts to be converted to residential or retail uses. Action 1.9.2 of A Plan for Growing Sydney emphasises the importance of employment lands and urban services to Greater Sydney’s productivity. Our research has reaffirmed their value, underpinned by the economic contributions they make and strong demand for this comparatively scarce resource. NORTH DISTRICT 40

Productivity Priority 1: Protect and support employment and urban services land Employment and urban service lands play a critical role in the efficient and effective function of the District. Owing to the comparative scarcity of this resource, a holistic and precautionary approach to their planning should be undertaken. Accordingly, relevant planning authorities should take a precautionary approach to rezoning employment and urban support lands or adding additional permissible uses that would hinder their role and function. The exception being where there is a clear direction in the Regional Plan (currently A Plan for Growing Sydney), the District Plan or an alternative strategy endorsed by the relevant planning authority. Any such alternative strategy should be based on a net community benefit assessment (i.e. analysis of the economic, environmental and social implications) of the proposed exception taking into account a District- wide perspective in accordance with Action P1. How these matters are taken into account is to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal.

Action P1: Develop better understanding of the value and operation of employment and urban services land In order to better understand the contribution of employment and urban services land to the District’s productivity, liveability and sustainability we will work with local councils to further develop our research and understanding of how the District’s employment and urban services land operate, the range of uses they support including their industry and supply chains, their interdependencies, key constraints, and opportunities to be improved. In doing this, the particular characteristics and value add of these locations will be identified to inform the preparation of appropriate planning controls to protect, support and enhance the economic functions of these areas. NORTH DISTRICT 41

3.3 Planning for job target ranges • a major role in supporting the in strategic and district centres increased economic activity of the Eastern, Central and Western cities As Greater Sydney transforms into a city of over • generally have over 20,000 jobs. six million people by 2036 and eight million people by 2056, we need to plan to attract and The work to support Our vision - Towards our best distribute employment and Greater Sydney 2056 also identified that there economic growth. were a range of centres (some of which had been classified as strategic centres in A Plan for Recent projections of future employment Growing Sydney) that in fact play a significant consider projected population growth and age district role due to the presence of one or more profiles, broad economic conditions and trends, of the following characteristics: sector and industry specific outlooks and Greater Sydney’s planned investments. • the scale of retail activity, generally over 50,000 square metres of floor space These updated projections have revised the forecast demand for jobs across Greater Sydney • the presence of health and education from 689,000 by 2036 to 817,000 additional facilities that serve the district jobs. and the local community • the level of transport services This is a significant growth opportunity for Greater Sydney as a global city, representing • generally generate between 5,000 to business confidence and economic growth. 10,000 jobs. We do, however, need to plan for how Greater These centres have been identified as Sydney attracts and accommodates these district centres. jobs in the right locations – the kind of places The presence and scale of the health and that we know are supported by land use and education facilities, transport gateway infrastructure investment and are attractive infrastructure and knowledge-intensive jobs from a commercial perspective. are the key differentiators between strategic and district centres. In these places, the NSW 3.3.1 Plan for the growth of centres Government has greater potential to leverage economic activity from existing infrastructure A Plan for Growing Sydney identified 28 which can enhance the global competitiveness strategic centres, and four transport gateways, of Greater Sydney. as places to provide more jobs close to homes. In developing Our vision - Towards our Greater Sydney 2056, our research found that some centres make a substantially greater contribution to the economy of Greater Sydney. On this basis, we have redefined the approach to consider a hierarchy of centres ranging from strategic to district and local. We define strategic centres as having one or more of the following characteristics:

• a higher proportion of knowledge- intensive jobs, principally relating to the presence of major hospitals, tertiary education institutions, stand-alone office development or a combination of these • the presence of existing or proposed major transport gateways NORTH DISTRICT 42

The differentiation does not intend to impact The lower end of the range of these job targets on the ability for either a strategic or a district reflect the baseline of projected job growth centre to attract retail or commercial activity that is anticipated in the centre, while the upper (including office development) of any scale, end is an aspirational higher growth scenario subject to the normal local planning and to reflect outcomes in the case of further development assessment process. investment and land use planning in centres. Local centres vary in size from a few shops on On this basis, there will be a need to review the a corner to a vibrant main street. They are on a list of strategic and district centres as part of the smaller scale than district centres and generally regular review of the regional plan for Greater serve the local population. Sydney, starting with the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney in 2017. We have nominated job targets for the District’s strategic and district centres to provide guidance to councils and NSW Government agencies as to the likely and potential scale of employment growth and to inform land use and infrastructure planning (Table 3-3). Our experience emphasises the value of providing targets as a range to account for varying economic conditions, investment opportunities and local aspirations.

Table 3-3: North District job target ranges for strategic and district centres (2016-2036)

2036 2036 Centre Centre Type 2016 Estimate Baseline Target Higher Target

Macquarie Park Strategic 58,500 73,000 79,000

North Sydney Strategic 60,400 76,000 81,500

St Leonards Strategic 47,100 54,000 63,500

Chatswood Strategic 24,700 31,000 33,000

Northern Beaches Hospital Strategic 9,300 12,000 13,000 and surrounding industrial areas

Brookvale-Dee District 20,000 23,000 26,000 Why

Hornsby District 14,300 18,000 22,000

Manly District 5,000 6,000 6,500

Mona Vale District 4,300 5,000 6,000

Figure 4-133-6: LocalGPOP and Precinct district Map Centres (2016)

Strategic Centre Metropolitan Rural Area Highway

National Parks District Centre and Reserves Railway

District Boundary Waterway Railway Station

Metropolitan Area Motorway NORTH DISTRICT 44

3.4 Optimising the productivity The economic development strategies will also benefits of Sydney Metro to create draw on the NSW Government’s 2016 report new smart jobs in strategic centres Jobs for the Future: Adding 1 million rewarding jobs in NSW by 2036. This report, prepared by The highest concentration of knowledge- Jobs for NSW, outlines the NSW Government’s intensive jobs in the North District is in the aspirations for future employment growth in strategic centres of North Sydney, St Leonards, NSW and how private and public sectors can Chatswood and Macquarie Park (see Figures 3-7 contribute to achieving it. to 3-10). These centres are part of the Eastern City and form its northern cluster of economic Jobs for NSW activity. The Eastern City will be subject to a Jobs for NSW is a private sector-led NSW specific economic development strategy, to be Government-backed initiative which was developed by the Department of Industry, Skills established by the NSW Premier and and Regional Development. NSW Minister for Industry in 2015 to drive investment and facilitate jobs growth Action P2: Develop and implement an across NSW. economic development strategy for the Eastern City The body has been tasked with overseeing the $190 million Jobs for NSW Fund and With the emergence of Greater assisting the NSW Government in delivering Sydney as a metropolis of three cities, on its commitment to create 150,000 new the Department of Industry, in jobs across NSW by March 2019. collaboration with the Commission, councils, the investment community and other Jobs for NSW is focused on driving growth stakeholders as relevant, will prepare and in industries and sectors where NSW has or implement economic development strategies could have a global competitive advantage, for each of the three cities. including start-ups and fast-growth small-to- medium sized enterprises in target industries This is a new approach for Greater Sydney as such as tourism, good exports and advanced it leverages the skills of government to lead manufacturing, with the overall aim of the agglomeration of jobs and industry. The growing the NSW economy. Jobs for NSW economic development strategies will give us is also providing grants and partnerships to a framework to collaborate across public and guide emerging businesses. private organisations to achieve the ambitions of Our vision – Towards our Greater Sydney 2056 and the aspirations of this draft District Plan. The three economic development strategies will be complementary and will reflect our aspirations for the Western, Central and Eastern cities. They will consider, where relevant:

• planning strategies to support the growth of health and education super precincts • the goals of Growing the First Economy of NSW – a framework for Aboriginal economic prosperity, developed in conjunction with Aboriginal Affairs • manufacturing and advanced manufacturing clusters • tourism and services economy • aerospace and defence industries • other specific industries as required. NORTH DISTRICT 45

Sydney City’s commercial office market The district centres of Brookvale-Dee Why, exhibits ‘overflow characteristics’. Demand Manly, Mona Vale and Hornsby accommodate for commercial space in centres such as retail and local services for communities. North Sydney, Chatswood and Macquarie The growth, innovation and evolution of Park is influenced by the strength of demand strategic and district centres will underpin the within Sydney City. Supporting growth and success of Greater Sydney. Centres not only maintaining the commercial core in the provide important services and jobs for local North District's strategic centres will attract residents, but a focal point for communities. investment that could otherwise be lost Their vitality and viability is important to local interstate or internationally. economies as well as the character of local North Sydney, St Leonards, Chatswood and areas. More specifically, well planned centres: Macquarie Park already benefit from good • help to stimulate economic access to a skilled workforce and connections to activity and innovation through Sydney City, via existing rail and road networks. the co-location of industries Sydney Metro will be a catalyst for further employment growth in these centres, providing • ensure the most efficient even stronger connections from Macquarie Park use of infrastructure to North Sydney and Sydney City and enabling • provide jobs closer to home in the continued expansion of Sydney City into support of the 30-minute city the District. • reduce the need to travel by car When operational in 2019, Sydney Metro by co-locating residential, health, Northwest will significantly increase transport employment and education facilities capacity and options within the District. This will • promote healthier lifestyles and community present opportunities for increased investment cohesion with improved walking, and economic activity along the route cycling and transport access to a wider particularly in locations that have, historically, range of services and opportunities been under-served by public transport options • provide attractive, safe and despite significant levels of growth. inclusive locations for communities Good public transport access and proximity to meet and socialise. to Sydney City have made some of the North For these reasons we emphasise the need for District’s strategic centres, such as St Leonards planning authorities to focus on the design and Chatswood, attractive locations for of, accessibility to, and economic strength of residential developments. A cautious approach centres. We also encourage local government to ongoing residential intensification should be and state agencies to invest in centres to reduce adopted to balance the capacity for further jobs the need for people to travel longer distances growth with other uses in these centres. to work or services, to make the best use of infrastructure and to support local businesses. 3.4.1 Growing economic activity In this regard, we must plan for existing in centres centres to grow, new centres to form and our The strategic centres of North Sydney, network of centres to be enhanced so they play St Leonards, Chatswood and Macquarie Park complementary and supportive roles. accommodate large concentrations of jobs and employment activity, substantial areas of commercial floor space, health and education facilities and other economic assets and transport connections. As the Northern Beaches Hospital precinct evolves, it is envisaged to be a major centre of employment, health and economic activity. NORTH DISTRICT 46

Productivity Priority 2: Manage growth and change in strategic and district centres and, as relevant, local centres

When undertaking planning for strategic, • meet the retail and service district and local centres, the relevant needs of the community planning authority should consider: • facilitate the reinforcement and/ • opportunities for existing centres or expansion of allied health to grow and new centres to be and research activities planned to meet forecast demand • promote the use of walking, cycling and across a range of retail types integrated public transport solutions • the need to reinforce the suitability of • provide urban spaces such as centres for retail and commercial uses meeting places and playgrounds while encouraging a competitive market • respond to the centre’s • the commercial requirements of heritage and history retailers and commercial operators • promote community, arts such as servicing, location, and cultural activities visibility and accessibility • reflect crime prevention through • the use of the B3 Commercial Core environmental design (CPTED) principles Zones in strategic centres and where such as safety and management appropriate in district centres to • manage the transition between reinforce and support the operation higher intensity activity in and and viability of non-residential uses around a centre and lower intensity including local office markets. activity that frames the centre. When preparing strategic plans, the relevant How these matters are taken into account is planning authority needs to demonstrate to be demonstrated in any relevant how its planning for centres has considered planning proposal. strategies to:

• deliver on the strategic and district centre’s job targets NORTH DISTRICT 47 NORTH DISTRICT 48

Figure 3-7: Macquarie Park centre and surrounds existing activities

Macquarie Park is a high-tech industrial area, attracting Hospital Mixed Use Zones electronics, science, computing, medical, communication and pharmaceutical companies. It saw a 133% increase in University Regional Public Open Space jobs between 1996 and 2011 and is now one of the largest employment centres in Greater Sydney. Around 380,000 Local / District Public UrbanGrowth NSW Project square metres of floor space was added over the past Open Space decade. Knowledge-intensive jobs account for over one- Priority Precinct Waterways third of the centre’s jobs. Investigation Area The centre includes Macquarie Centre, Macquarie University, Priority Precinct Sydney Metro Macquarie University Hospital and Riverside Corporate Park. It is serviced by three train stations with links to Chatswood Retail hub Existing Railway and Epping and local and regional bus services.

Sydney Metro/Railway State Government Office Station

Federal/Commonwealth Motorway Office

Business Zones Major Road

Industrial Zones Local Road NORTH DISTRICT 49

Action P3: Create a sense of place, Subject to the availability of resources, we grow jobs and diversify activity in will drive the coordination of planning in the Macquarie Park Collaboration Area in partnership with relevant stakeholders, State agencies and industry. Macquarie Park has fewer growth constraints than the District’s more In addition to the policy directions for strategic established centres. While the existing centres, planning for the Macquarie Park road network is heavily constrained, the area is Collaboration Area will include benefiting from improved rail connectivity considerations to: including the forthcoming Sydney Metro. The • enable additional capacity for commercial Sydney Metro will improve public transport floor space to maintain a commercial core access and increase the catchment of workers. • improve urban amenity as the centre The potential for improved future connections transitions from business park to a vibrant with the Central City and Parramatta also commercial centre, including reducing presents further opportunities for the area. the impact of vehicle movements on pedestrian and cyclist accessibility The Department of Planning and Environment is working with the City of Ryde Council to • deliver a finer grain road network agree on priorities and mechanisms to achieve to enhance pedestrian connections a vibrant urban centre with an effective mix and provide new access points of commercial, residential, retail, health and • promote excellence in urban design education activities. by upgrading public areas These investigations include consideration • deliver an innovation ecosystem in of a Special Infrastructure Contribution as an Macquarie Park, capitalising on the option to fund improvements to transport, open relationship with Macquarie University and space and community and education facilities. nearby high-tech and medical corporations A land use and infrastructure strategy is also • improve public transport connections being prepared to guide development and to Parramatta and the District’s infrastructure delivery over the next 20 years other strategic centres, including to 2036. the Northern Beaches Hospital. Due to the complex nature of the project and the range of stakeholders involved in planning and development of the area, we have Employment growth in Macquarie Park identified Macquarie Park as a Collaboration Macquarie Park has experienced significant Area to maximise opportunities for the jobs growth in recent times – it now sustainable growth and economic prosperity of accommodates over 58,000 employees and the centre. is the third largest centre for employment in Greater Sydney behind Sydney City and Greater Parramatta. Many of these jobs A Collaboration Area is a place where are in knowledge-intensive and high-tech a significant productivity, liveability or industries. Many nationally significant sustainability outcome is better achieved companies have located key functions at through the collaboration of different levels Macquarie Park. Macquarie Park businesses of government and in some cases the private are keen to assist the development of an sector or landowners. innovation hub and many are already active in the start-up and new-tech space. Macquarie Park will continue to grow and major employers are key stakeholders in how this growth is planned and delivered. Key issues already identified by major employers include the high levels of traffic congestion and the need for growth to be accompanied by improved public transport access and reliability, walkability and activation of the public domain. NORTH DISTRICT 50

Figure 3-8: St Leonards centre and surrounds existing activities

Figure 4-13 GPOP Precinct Map (2016)

Priority Precinct Local/District Public St Leonards is a mixed use centre with high rise offices, a Investigation Area Open Space major health precinct, high density residential development and good public transport. It is an attractive centre, Sydney Metro bolstered by the restaurant strip along Willoughby Road in Hospital Crows Nest. Sydney Metro Station In addition to leveraging the potential of the Royal North Shore Public and Private Hospitals and the Mater Hospital Existing Railway to grow jobs in complementary health services and existing University/TAFE education facilities, a new Sydney Metro station at Crows Existing Railway Station Nest will further strengthen the centre’s economic and employment functions. Retail hub Motorway

Business Zones Highway

Industrial Zones Major Road

Mixed Use Zones Local Road NORTH DISTRICT 51

Action P4: Facilitate place making and In addition to the policy directions for the growth and diversification strategic centres, planning for the St Leonards of job opportunities in St Leonards Collaboration Area will include considerations to: St Leonards has a range of significant metropolitan health and • leverage off the new Sydney Metro education assets, including the station at Crows Nest to deliver additional Royal North Shore Hospital, North Shore Private employment and residential capacity Hospital and TAFE NSW St Leonards campus. • identify actions to grow jobs in the centre This draft District Plan identifies St Leonards as a • reduce the impact of vehicle movements health and education super precinct. There are on pedestrian and cyclist accessibility opportunities to define the centre’s commercial identity through the integration of health and • protect and enhance Willoughby Road’s education assets and the provision of village character and retail/restaurant complementary health and medical research strip while recognising increased growth activities; private hospitals; allied health; opportunities due to significant NSW ancillary retail; visitor, carer and aged Government infrastructure investment accommodation. Section 3.5 of this draft District • deliver new high quality open space, Plan provides our definition of health and upgrade public areas, and establish education super precincts and the type of collaborative place-making initiatives activities that we support in these locations. • promote synergies between the Royal St Leonards is an attractive area that has in North Shore Hospital and other health recent years experienced considerable levels and education-related activities, in of commercial, residential and institutional partnership with NSW Health growth. St Leonards also straddles multiple • define the northern perimeter of St local government areas. To address this, we Leonards to protect the adjoining industrial have identified St Leonards as a Collaboration zoned land for a range of urban services. Area. Subject to the availability of resources, we will assist in facilitating a partnership with State agencies and local governments to coordinate Innovation in the North District - growth in the area. Case Study: CSIRO A Special Infrastructure Contribution will be The CSIRO is developing an innovation considered as an option to fund transport, open hub at its Lindfield headquarters, building space and community and education facilities. on the District’s strength in knowledge- intensive jobs and highly skilled workers. The Department of Planning and Environment The innovation hub will include business is working with Lane Cove, North Sydney and incubators and start-up facilities such as Willoughby councils to examine the St Leonards telepresence access to innovation networks and Crows Nest Station Precinct. and clusters. It will also include conference The first stage will analyse existing employment facilities. and understand future employment demands The CSIRO is introducing shared laboratory and requirements. A land use and infrastructure and co-locating spaces as part of its longer strategy will guide future development and term strategy to foster innovation and infrastructure delivery over the next partnerships by having multiple companies 20 years to 2036. onsite to access CSIRO technologies. NORTH DISTRICT 52

Figure 3-9: North Sydney centre and surrounds existing activities

North Sydney provides prime commercial space and is an integral part the Hospital Local Public Open Space internationally-competitive Sydney CBD. A new Sydney Metro Station at Victoria Figure 4-13 GPOP Precinct Map (2016) Cross will create an opportunity for further commercial growth. TAFE/University District Boundary The commercial centre is complemented by educational institutions including the Australian Catholic University and a number of schools, Greenwood Plaza and Local Government Office Existing Railway civic uses including the North Sydney Council chambers and Stanton Library. In addition to the policy directions for strategic centres, the Commission will work State Government Office Sydney Metro Station with North Sydney Council and Transport for NSW to: • maximise the land use opportunities provided by the new station Retail hub Sydney Metro • identify the actions to grow jobs in the centre • strengthen North Sydney’s reputation as an education centre to grow jobs and Business Zones Existing Railway Station add diversity • expand after hour activities Mixed Use Zones Motorway • encourage growth in business tourism as a conference location that takes advantage of North Sydney’s identity as a business hub, its location, Industrial Zones Highway access and views

Regional Public • provide a variety of high quality civic and public spaces befitting a Major Road Open Space globally-oriented CBD, which can be utilised for a range of cultural and entertainment activities District Public Local Road Open Space • improve amenity by reducing the impact of vehicles on pedestrians NORTH DISTRICT 53

Figure 3-10: Chatswood centre and surrounds existing activities

Westfield Chatswood, Chatswood Chase and civic and Local/District Public Retail hub Open Space entertainment facilities such as the Concourse, Zenith Theatre and Chatswood Library combine to create a centre Local Government Office Sydney Metro with high-profile retail and a mix of high density residential and high rise office developments. Improvements to Chatswood Station and increased residential development State Government Office Existing Railway have created a vibrant mixed use centre. Federal/Commonwealth Sydney Metro/Railway In updating plans for Chatswood, the Commission will work Office Station with Willoughby Council to consider the policy directions for strategic centres and give consideration to: Cultural Centre Highway • maximise the land use opportunities provided by the enhanced rail services of Sydney Metro Business Zones Major Road • provide height and floor space ratio incentives as part of planning controls Mixed Use Zones Local Road • promote the role of the centre as a location for high quality, commercial office buildings and a diverse retail offering • enhance the role of the centre as a destination for cultural and leisure activities • promote and encourage connectivity and upgrade and increase public open spaces. NORTH DISTRICT 54

3.4.2 Planning priorities for district 3.4.3 Planning for retail floor space and local centres provision and demand in the North District Encouraging the growth of district and local centres will help to overcome transport access Our retail demand and supply research forms challenges in the District’s geographically part of our evidence base and background constrained north and coastal areas. This will studies. The research estimates that in 2015 reduce the distance people need to travel to there was approximately 10.87 million square access jobs and local services. metres of retail floor space across Greater Sydney, equating to 2.4 square metres Productivity Priority 2 also applies to the growth per person. of district centres, and we will work across State agencies and in collaboration with local Looking forward, using the medium population government and communities to agree on growth scenario, demand will be generated priorities for each centre. Proposed priorities are for over five million square metres of retail floor outlined on the following pages. space across Greater Sydney by 2036. As more than two thirds of this growth is Local centres forecast to occur within established areas, There are multiple opportunities for different which may provide some constraints to retail scales of local centres, to provide facilities, supply, it is a matter we have identified as services and jobs within easy walking and necessary for further research prioritisation. cycling distance. Many local centres will benefit As of 2015, the North District provided from revitalisation strategies. Councils are approximately 1.87 million square metres of encouraged to review their local centres for retail floor space (2.1 square metres per person), revitalisation work. which is lower than the Greater Sydney average (2.4 square metres per person). More broadly, Greater Sydney has a long history of focussing its retail offer within centres. This has positively reinforced the polycentric character of Greater Sydney that has provided convenient access to a range of goods and services for many communities, visitors and workers. It has also allowed for centres such as Parramatta, Chatswood, Bondi Junction, Liverpool, Hurstville and Penrith across Greater Sydney to have high concentrations of retail, housing and jobs co-located on the major transport corridors. This has allowed for the efficient and effective use of both privately and publicly funded infrastructure. In this context, our planning should reinforce Greater Sydney’s strong focus on centres and support the expansion of existing centres to accommodate the increased demand for retail and associated services. We should also investigate opportunities for new centres to be formed in locations that are supported by transport and other important forms of infrastructure. NORTH DISTRICT 55

Our retail dataset, available as part of our background studies, is a useful strategic planning tool that indicates current supply and where demand is likely to require increased retail development at a district and local government area level.

Productivity Priority 3: Prioritise the provision of retail floor space in centres When preparing retail and commercial strategies to inform local planning, the following matters should be considered:

• existing and future supply and demand for retail floor space within the District based on the Department of Planning and Environment’s medium population growth scenario • the accessibility of different types of retail and commercial floor space to communities • opportunities to allow retail and commercial activities to innovate within centres • the impacts of new retail and commercial proposals to the viability and vitality of existing and planned centres • the need for new retail development to reinforce / enhance the public domain • the net social, economic and environmental benefits of new supply within different locations. How these matters are taken into account is to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal.

The following pages illustrate the district centres and proposed priorities. NORTH DISTRICT 56

Brookvale-Dee Why • promote walking, cycling and public transport to Warringah Mall, the Brookvale Proposed priorities: industrial area and Dee Why to alleviate • maintain the mix of uses so that traffic congestion on Pittwater Road Brookvale-Dee Why continues to and to reduce car dependency perform strongly as a well-balanced, • encourage the establishment of new, self-sustaining combined centre innovative and creative industries • encourage and support improvements to in the Brookvale industrial area Warringah Mall and better integrate it with • encourage new lifestyle or the fabric and life of Brookvale-Dee Why entertainment uses to activate local • encourage provision of affordable housing streets in Brookvale-Dee Why to attract and retain key workers in local • improve connections between industries, particularly in Brookvale Brookvale-Dee Why and Northern • recognise and enhance the economic Beaches Hospital and beyond. and employment opportunities along Pittwater Road and encourage revitalisation along this commercial strip NORTH DISTRICT 57

Figure 3-11 Brookvale-Dee Why centre and surrounds existing activities

Retail hub Federal/Commonwealth Office Mixed Use Zones Major Road

Local Government Office Business Zones Sydney Metro Local Road

State Government Office Local Public Open Space Highway NORTH DISTRICT 58

Hornsby Proposed priorities:

• encourage revitalisation of the commercial core • better integrate Westfield Hornsby into the centre and make the area more attractive • attract mixed-use development west of the railway line, encourage stronger integration with the centre, and encourage the development of a lively ‘eat-street’ or restaurant strip • review local planning instruments to unlock development potential of strata- constrained areas east of the centre • support health-related land uses and infrastructure around Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital • improve walking and cycling connections between Hornsby Station and the Hospital • reduce negative traffic impacts on pedestrians • promote walking, cycling and public transport to the centre and within it • prioritise public domain upgrades, placemaking initiatives and a new civic space. NORTH DISTRICT 59

Figure 3-12 Hornsby centre and surrounds existing activities

Hospital Retail hub Local Public Open Space Highway

TAFE Business Zones Railway Major Road

Local Government Office Mixed Use Zones Railway Station Local Road

State Government Office Industrial Zones Motorway NORTH DISTRICT 60

Figure 3-13 Manly centre and surrounds existing activities

Manly Local Government Office Proposed priorities: State Government Office • further develop Manly as a cultural, tourist, Ferry retail and entertainment precinct • improve transport connections to Manly Wharf Tourism from other lower Northern Beaches suburbs Retail hub • provide faster public transport to Chatswood, Frenchs Forest, St Leonards, Macquarie Park and Macquarie University Business Zones • encourage diversified commercial activity Mixed Use Zones to improve economic resilience Industrial Zones • encourage eco-tourism around North Head and the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve. Local Public Open Space

Highway

Major Road

Local Road NORTH DISTRICT 61

Figure 3-14 Mona Vale centre and surrounds existing activities

Mona Vale Local Government Office Proposed priorities: State Government Office • protect and enhance the commercial and retail Retail hub function of the centre to provide employment

growth and maintain high job containment Business Zones ensure sufficient retail and commercial floor • Mixed Use Zones space is provided to meet future demand • leverage the Mona Vale B-Line stop to facilitate intensification Industrial Zones

of uses in the centre, with an emphasis on the provision Local Public Open Space of housing affordability to retain 18 to 35 year olds Highway • explore opportunities to increase residential diversification around the centre Major Road improve access and linkages to local destinations, such as • Local Road Mona Vale Hospital, through priority pedestrian networks • promote walking and cycling to the centre and within it • retain and protect the industrial precinct to the north of the centre to serve the growing population • investigate feasibility of existing planning provisions and controls as they relate to mixed-use and residential development within the centre • prioritise place making initiatives to promote mixed-use activities, urban activation and more diverse housing, and improve connectivity and integration with existing networks. NORTH DISTRICT 62

3.5 Prioritising Northern • attract new, innovative health Beaches Hospital as the catalyst and medical related commercial for a new centre premises to support the hospital • reinforce the centre as an employment The Northern Beaches Hospital will anchor hub for the Northern Beaches, a new health and education super precinct building on the existing business park for the North District and Greater Sydney. east of the Wakehurst Parkway Associated road upgrades are intended to ease continue to work with State congestion and improve travel times to, from • agencies to investigate a high and within the super precinct as it develops. frequency public transport link. The Northern Beaches Council is preparing a Northern Beaches Hospital Precinct Structure Plan to consider the wider land use implications of this investment. The Structure Plan will analyse opportunities and constraints to plan for future development around the Hospital.

Action P5: Coordinate planning and infrastructure delivery in the Northern Beaches Hospital Collaboration Area The range of stakeholders involved in the planning and development of the Northern Beaches Hospital Precinct requires sophisticated coordination of a diverse range of activities. We have identified the Northern Beaches Hospital as a Collaboration Area. Subject to the availability of resources, we will work with State agencies, the Northern Beaches Council, industry and the community to support Council’s work to build on existing infrastructure and target growth as a new strategic centre. In doing so, the Commission, in partnership with NSW Health and other State and local government stakeholders, will work to deliver the following outcomes:

• leverage the investment in the Northern Beaches Hospital to provide a vibrant and well-connected strategic centre • deliver an urban core with a mix of commercial and residential uses and community facilities • provide new housing, including affordable housing, to support key workers • ensure walkability within the precinct and that designs support the use of active transport (walking and safe cycling) • enhance the natural setting of the area by embellishing existing open space NORTH DISTRICT 63

Figure 3-15: Northern Beaches Hospital health and education super precinct existing activities

Hospital State Government Office District Public Open Space Major Road

Public Transport Interchange Business Regional Public Open Space Local Road

Retail hub Local Public Open Space Road Upgrade NORTH DISTRICT 64

Health and education super precincts activities; private hospitals; allied health; Across Greater Sydney there are a number ancillary retail; visitor; carer and aged of locations where the proximity of health accommodation in the right locations and education assets create significant • plan for increased access and enhanced opportunity to drive economic activity and urban amenity within and around the prosperity of NSW. We have identified health and education super precincts. these as health and education super precincts, Growing jobs in the health and education important locations for knowledge-intensive sectors delivers on Direction 1.10 in jobs, innovation and service delivery. It is A Plan for Growing Sydney, specifically Actions anticipated that by 2036, 21% of all 1.10.2 and 1.10.3. Greater Sydney jobs will be in the health and education sectors. These super precincts will be subject to specific attention when the Department Our health and education super precincts of Industry, in collaboration with the mirror closely the list of significant Commission, councils and the investment metropolitan health and education precincts community undertakes an Economic identified in A Plan for Growing Sydney. The Development Plan for the Eastern City. This only exceptions are Rhodes - where there is no will recognise the importance of higher major education presence – and Rydalmere – education and health care to Greater Sydney's where there is no major health presence. economy; the role that health and education Our approach to health and education institutions play as magnets for economic super precincts will be refined further and activity, employment and investment; and confirmed in our review of A Plan for Growing how these places improve the way people Sydney in 2017. access education and health services. In the North District, the Northern Beaches The Economic Development Plan will Hospital and St Leonards have been identified include directions for health and education as health and education super precincts. super precincts, including coordinated efforts between government, industry and We support and encourage the growth of universities to address commercial barriers health and ancillary activities in health and and to encourage the clustering of suitable, education super precincts and recognise the high-quality health or education services in need to: adjacent lands. • plan for the expansion of these precincts • protect surrounding employment areas for health and education and related land use • consider flexibility of zones to accommodate ancillary uses such as health and medical research NORTH DISTRICT 65

3.6 Accessing a greater number Transport for NSW is investigating other of metropolitan jobs and centres initiatives to improve connections and access within 30 minutes within the North District and to the Eastern and Central Cities: Increasing the range of jobs and other the Western Harbour Tunnel opportunities that people can access within • and Beaches Link 30 minutes of their homes requires better transport connections and stronger major • public transport between Macquarie economic and employment centres. As Greater Park and Parramatta Sydney evolves to a metropolis of three cities, • Bus Rapid transit along Victoria Road people will enjoy better access to hubs of major • further development of the public transport economic activity, and new housing should system to service trips outside peak periods be focused on transport corridors and around • Temporary Transport Planning initiatives employment centres to increase the proportion for Macquarie Park and other affected of people who have easy access to jobs and stations in preparation for rail shutdown services. for Sydney Metro upgrades Existing or committed NSW Government • collaboration across State and transport initiatives that will improve the local governments to develop District’s connections to the Eastern comprehensive walking and cycling City include: networks for the North District • Sydney Metro • enhancements to the rail network • Northern Beaches B-Line between to improve express links from the Mona Vale and Sydney City North District to adjacent districts and regions including the Central Coast • NorthConnex, connecting the M1 and M2 Motorways • better integration of the local bus network with mass transit solutions including • the Pinch Point Program that aims the Northern Beaches B-Line, Sydney to reduce traffic delays, manage Metro and the existing railway line congestion and improve travel times on Sydney’s major roads by targeting • long-term transit solutions to link the key hotspots of congestion Northern Beaches with the three cities. • Rapid Bus Routes that connect • a focused travel behaviour change program centres across Greater Sydney to reduce car dependency in the District • major road upgrades including Mona • interchange opportunities between modes Vale Road from Terry Hills to Mona within the District, reducing the focus on Vale, and roads at the Northern the Sydney CBD as an interchange hub Beaches Hospital Precinct. • additional east-west public transport connections within the North District.

These opportunities will be considered by Transport for NSW in further detail as part of the development of the Future Transport Strategy in 2017. NORTH DISTRICT 66

Western Harbour Tunnel and Beaches Link Sydney Metro West Western Harbour Tunnel and Beaches The NSW Government has announced a new Link is a proposal for a new motorway underground metro railway line will be built that would connect with the Sydney between Parramatta City and Sydney City to Motorway Network, reducing travel times help cater for Sydney’s growth. for motorists and commuters, relieving Sydney Metro West will provide a direct pressure on the existing harbour crossings, connection between Parramatta City taking traffic off local streets and providing and Sydney City, linking communities new opportunities for public transport and not previously serviced by rail as well as improved urban amenity. supporting growth between the two major The proposed Western Harbour Tunnel centres. would connect to the WestConnex Rozelle The Sydney Metro West project will focus Interchange, cross underneath Sydney on a corridor between the Parramatta River Harbour and connect with the Warringah and existing T1 Western Line, because of the Freeway at North Sydney. greater potential to transform communities, The proposed Beaches Link is a tunnel which create new ones and link them using a new would connect to the Warringah Freeway, state-of the art public transport system. cross underneath Middle Harbour and Beyond this corridor, opportunities to extend service the Northern Beaches. the line east and west will also be considered. NORTH DISTRICT 67

3.7 Accessing local jobs, goods and • easing congestion on some of the services within 30 minutes busiest corridors in the District under the Pinch Point Program: Our ambition for Greater Sydney to be a -- Pennant Hills Road between Wahroonga 30-minute city goes beyond access to job and the M2 Motorway centres of metropolitan significance – it also includes access to health services, education, -- M1 Motorway connections to Wahroonga local employment opportunities, shops, public via Normanhurst spaces and recreational facilities around -- Pacific Highway between Pymble and strategic and district centres. North Sydney Transport for NSW is delivering and investigating -- Centennial Avenue/Burns Bay Road to opportunities to create better transport Huntleys Point via Lane Cove connections to strategic and district centres. -- Boundary Street/Warringah Road to These include: Beacon Hill via Roseville -- Eastern Valley Way between Castle Cove • improving the frequency and performance of existing rapid bus routes including and Northbridge Hurstville to Macquarie Park via Burwood, -- Blaxland Road between Top Ryde Hornsby to Blacktown via Castle Hill and and Epping T-Way and Warringah Road from Dee -- West Pymble and Kitchener Street to Why to Chatswood and Macquarie Park Mona Vale via Pittwater Road. • building NorthConnex, a nine kilometre These opportunities will be considered in tunnel linking the M1 Pacific Motorway at further detail as Transport for NSW develops the Wahroonga to The Hills M2 Motorway at Future Transport Strategy. West Pennant Hills, providing an alternative route for through traffic and heavy vehicles currently using the highly constrained Pennant Hills Road and Pacific Highway • upgrading Mona Vale Road between Terry Hills and Mona Vale from two lanes to four. The upgrades are aimed at improving safety, accessibility and efficiency to and from Mona Vale and Ingleside from the northern suburbs NORTH DISTRICT 68

3.8 Coordinating freight activities A number of freight-related initiatives are with land use planning already underway: The North District is a major gateway for road • The joint NSW-Australian Government and rail freight travelling between Greater Northern Sydney Freight Corridor Sydney, the Central Coast, northern regional program will improve the capacity NSW and Queensland. Freight volumes in the and reliability of freight trains between North District move along: Strathfield and Newcastle. • NorthConnex will provide an alternative • the Main North rail line, which includes route for through traffic and heavy vehicles a number of capacity upgrades known currently using Pennant Hills Road. as the Northern Sydney Freight Corridor, a rail freight corridor between North Transport for NSW will continue to work with Strathfield and Newcastle (Broadmeadow) councils and relevant stakeholders to improve with links through to the North Coast the operation of freight, including opportunities and North West. The corridor is forecast to manage the high levels of future freight to support the movement of up to demand on the Pacific Highway and M1 15,000 kilotonnes every year by 2036 Motorway. To support this, we will work with Transport for NSW and councils to examine the • the M1 Motorway: with more than potential to revitalise places and commercial 20,000 kilotonnes of freight movements strips once NorthConnex reduces traffic on forecast every year by 2036. Pennant Hills Road. In addition, 170,000 trips are made every day in the North District by light commercial vehicles, representing 18% of all trips made by these vehicles across Greater Sydney. They mainly travel between North Sydney, Chatswood and Macquarie Park, and also around Brookvale and Dee Why, and along the Northern Beaches spine. NORTH DISTRICT 69

N OUTER SYDNEY ORBITAL: CENTRAL COAST TO WESTERN SYDNEY (Indicative only)

NORTH WEST Rouse Hill NORTHCONNEX Hornsby

Castle Hill EPPING TO Norwest THORNLEIGH THIRD TRACK Frenchs St Marys (Complete) Forest Dee Why Brookvale Penrith Blacktown St Marys Macquarie WESTERN SYDNEY Park Chatswood INTERMODAL TERMINAL (Indicative only) WSIP: ERSKINE PARK ROAD INTERSECTION UPGRADES Parramatta NORTH (Under construction) Clyde STRATHFIELD Rhodes WSIP: NORTHERN Yennora RAIL UNDERPASS North Sydney ROAD UPGRADES Smithﬁeld (Complete) (Under construction) CHULLORA JUNCTION WESTERN SYDNEY WESTERN SYDNEY FREIGHT LINE Sydney REMODELLING (Indicative only) Villawood (Preliminary design) Western Bondi Junction Sydney WSIP: CUMBERLAND HIGHWAY Enfield Airport INTERSECTION UPGRADES Chullora Green Square (Under construction) Cooks River Liverpool UNDER SYDNEY GATEWAY REDEVELOPMENT (Preliminary design) Bankstown Sydney PORT BOTANY RAIL LINE Airport (DUPLICATION) SOUTH WEST Rockdale (Preliminary design) MOOREBANK Kogarah INTERMODAL Port Botany Leppington PRECINCT Hurstville 2018 SOUTHERN SYDNEY WESTCONNEX FORESHORE ROAD FREIGHT LINE M5/KING GEORGES ROAD CAPACITY UPGRADE — Capcity upgrades INTERCHANGE UPGRADE (Partially funded) (Indicative only) (Under construction) Minto OUTER SYDNEY ORBITAL: WESTERN SYDNEY TO Sutherland SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS Smeaton Grange (Indicative only)

Campbelltown 0 2 4 6 8 10 km Macarthur

Figure 3-16 Greater Sydney’s Dedicfreightated fassetsreight rail Proposed intermodal terminal Priority Growth Area Shared freight rail Existing intermodal terminal Proposed Transport Corridors Sydney Trains network Freight activity concentrations (indicative only) Major freight road

Dedicated freight rail Proposed intermodal terminal

Shared freight rail Existing internodal terminal

Sydney Trains network Freight activity precincts

Proposed Transport corridors Major freight road (indicative only)

Source: Transport for NSW (2016) NORTH DISTRICT 70

3.9 Growing the tourism economy Tourists and visitors enjoy a number of areas of the North District including:

• the north shore of Sydney Harbour, including Luna Park and Taronga Zoo and views to Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge • stunning beaches and national parks including Manly Beach and travelling by the Manly Ferry, the Northern Beaches to Palm Beach and Barrenjoey Head, Lane Cove National Park, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, the Great North Walk and the Hawkesbury River • retail centres such as Chatswood that attract international visitors.

Action P6: Grow and manage the visitor economy within the District We will work with Destination NSW, local governments and other stakeholders to:

• provide supporting evidence to understand future tourism needs • investigate opportunities to improve Aboriginal cultural tourism • investigate opportunities to expand business tourism • develop a comprehensive North District Tourism Transport study to respond to local, national and international tourism markets and improve access to tourism destinations, particularly the Northern Beaches, including: -- targeted transport responses to key corridors of tourism demand -- improvements to public transport and cycling routes to facilitate accessibility to areas such as Manly, Palm Beach, Ku- ring-gai Chase National Park, Lane Cove River and National Park, Middle Harbour and Pittwater • facilitate improved infrastructure and amenities in key centres and tourist destinations, particularly Manly • develop a clear future for Brooklyn given its potential to attract tourists. NORTH DISTRICT 71 NORTH DISTRICT 72 NORTH DISTRICT 4 A Liveable City 73

'City areas with flourishing diversity sprout strange and unpredictable uses and peculiar scenes. But this is not a drawback of diversity. This is the point of it.' – Jane Jacobs

The North District is home to 886,550 people. This draft District Plan considers the essential People live relatively close to a great range of need to supply more housing in the places jobs and high quality health and education where people want to live, which will allow facilities. With its setting in bushland, valleys and people to remain in their communities through waterways the liveability of the North District is different stages of life. This requires a diversity highly valued by its residents. of housing, including adequate affordable and social housing and aged care provision. This People living in the District are close to a good draft District Plan addresses the need for good choice of jobs and high quality health and access to education, health and emergency education facilities. There is a high proportion services as well as planning for other services of detached dwellings with areas of apartments such as crematoria and cemeteries. concentrated around the rail network, harbour and beaches. There are a greater number of Our planning for Greater Sydney aspires to smaller households (couples and single person) maintain and improve residents’ quality of life than families and the number of smaller by increasing accessibility to more jobs and households is set to increase in the future as the recreation as the District grows. We can help community ages. to create healthy and connected communities if we collaborate across the private and public This requires a focus on the type of housing sector and with communities, and base our that the District needs as it grows – not decisions on quality evidence. just in numbers, but the diversity that can accommodate the District’s changing needs. This draft District Plan looks at how we can The North District Liveability Profile implement the liveability goals of A Plan for Our North District Liveability Profile Growing Sydney as well as the priorities from describes the District’s population in terms Towards our Greater Sydney 2056. In particular, of its existing characteristics, age, gender, we draw on the goals that seek to develop a country of birth, family type and how we city of housing choice, with homes that meet expect these characteristics to change over our resident’s and lifestyles in a great place to time. This informs the way we plan for each live (Goal 2), with communities that are strong, group’s unique needs. healthy and well connected (Goal 3). You can view the Liveability Profile by visiting It integrates the planning for new homes and www.greater.sydney. We will continue to neighbourhoods; walking, cycling and public develop the profile so as to improve the transport; jobs; sustainability; and heritage and quality and range of social data that forms culture. It is founded on our understanding of the basis of smart strategic planning. how the population is changing. NORTH DISTRICT 74

The Liveability Framework Greater Sydney’s Liveability Framework forms a foundation for planning and infrastructure delivery to be driven by consideration of people’s needs at all stages of life. Use of the Framework to inform the strategic plans would allow governments, planning authorities and services providers to work together across a common framework to plan for and enhance the District’s liveability as our population grows. The Liveability Framework places our physical and mental health and wellbeing at the forefront as Greater Sydney transitions from suburban to more urban places. It relies on strong partnerships between State agencies, local government, non-government organisations, private providers and communities. Nine liveability outcomes have been derived from international best practice and refined through consultation with councils, interest groups and the community to form the Framework. Healthy liveable places demonstrate:

• housing choice by supporting affordable and appropriate housing for all • urban design excellence by delivering high quality design that supports community safety, health and wellbeing, and enhances community assets and character • connected communities by supporting walking, cycling and public transport movement between destinations • sense of belonging and local identity by creating great places that are socially inclusive and promote respect and feelings of belonging • social infrastructure provision by promoting an integrated approach to social infrastructure that includes health care, education, fresh food access, public open spaces and other community/cultural facilities • community engagement delivered across all liveability outcomes by promoting community empowerment and ownership in shaping resilient cities • culture and innovation by celebrating and promoting creative arts, digital technology, culture and innovation • diversity of job opportunities by providing access to a range of jobs and learning/skills development • environmental quality by managing the quality of and access to the natural environment.

This draft District Plan addresses the need for good access to education, health, community and emergency services people require through every stage of their life. It takes a design-led planning approach that focuses on people in order to create more great places to meet, work, exercise and socialise. We want people to be able to access public spaces, shops, parks, sports and cultural facilities by foot or bicycle. We want to plan for these places in a way that respects the District’s Aboriginal and European heritage and recognises the survival of traditional Aboriginal cultural practices and the thriving contemporary Aboriginal culture and communities within the North District. NORTH DISTRICT 75

4.1 The North District’s people 4.1.1 North District age profile Many factors make the North District a great We look at the District’s changing age profile to place to live. Community consultation revealed understand how and where we need to plan for that people feel safe and secure living in the people at different stages of their life. This work North District and that 75% of residents in the has helped us to understand that while the North District consider the liveability of their District’s population will grow at a slower rate area to be either ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’ – than the Greater Sydney average. The greatest higher than the Greater Sydney average of 66%. proportional growth will be in the 85+ age group, which is expected to almost double. The Many aspects contribute to the District’s trend towards a significantly older population liveability: from Manly’s festivals, surf and profile by 2036 is also significant in terms of sailing competitions, to bushwalking and the growth in the number of people over 65, which cultural diversity of places like Chatswood accounts for almost 40% of all the District’s and Eastwood that offer abundant eating and growth. shopping opportunities. The District enjoys clean air and a microclimate tempered by sea These changes mean planning authorities and breezes given its proximity to the ocean. service providers need to look at how they can create a more diverse supply of homes, so that The District includes important areas of people can continue to live in their local area as Aboriginal cultural heritage, many of which they age, as well as what kind of health network are protected in the parks and reserves, while services are required, and how convenient significant historic sites include the Quarantine access to day to day needs can be provided. Station at Manly and Barrenjoey Head. Changes to aged care requirements will vary When residents were asked to rate the across the District. The Hornsby, Ryde, Ku-ring- performance of their area on a number of gai and Northern Beaches local government aspects of liveability, North District residents areas have the largest projected aggregate gave the highest ratings to: growth in the 65-84 and 85+ age groups, while • access to supermarkets and retail (with other local government areas, such as North 69% rating this as ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’) Sydney, Mosman and Hunters Hill will have large percentage increases in the 65+ group. • the availability of good schools and educational facilities (64%) At the other end of the age spectrum, the 20% • the safety of people and their property (62%). growth in school aged children will create demand for school enrolments and necessitate Between now and 2036, the North District will planning for new schools and more innovative grow by 196,350 people to around 1.083 million, use of existing schools. There will also be 11% up from around 886,550– a 1.0% growth rate more babies in 2036, giving rise to increased that compares to 1.6% for Greater Sydney as a demand for paediatric services. whole. This will require new housing, new areas to work and great new places for the growing The projected growth in school-aged children population. varies across the District, with the largest increases expected in Ryde, Ku-ring-gai and Although the spread of growth by age will be Northern Beaches local government areas. generally consistent with the Greater Sydney By contrast, there will be comparatively small average, in absolute terms the growth will be aggregate growth in school-aged children in lower. Significantly, the largest proportional Mosman and Willoughby and a small reduction growth will be in the over 85s with the total in Hunters Hill. growth of people over 65 accounting for almost 40% of all the District’s growth. This requires significant planning by councils and service providers in terms of local provision of aged care, housing, health support, ageing in place and convenient access to day to day needs. NORTH DISTRICT 76

Figure 4-1: North District projected population growth by age group (2016 – 2036)

0-4 55,250 6,150

5-14 108,000 19,000

15-19 51,100 13,250

20-24 52,550 11,400

25-34 123,100 8,650

35-49 197,750 26,600

50-64 158,900 36,200

65-84 116,300 55,100

85+ 23,650 20,000

2016 2016 to 2036 Growth

Source: Department of Planning & Environment, 2016 New South Wales State and Local Government Area Population and Household Projections and Implied Dwelling Requirements 2016 to 2036, NSW Government, Sydney

Table 4-1: North District, forecast aggregate and proportional population growth by age group (2016 -2036).

Aggregate growth 2016-2036 Proportional growth 2016-2036

TOTAL <1 1-4 5-19 20-64 65-84 85+ <1 1-4 5-19 20-64 65-84 85+ GROWTH

Hornsby 180 720 4,500 10,750 8,450 3,750 28,350 10% 10% 15% 12% 44% 90%

Hunters Hill -10 -40 -150 -50 900 700 1,350 -7% -7% -5% -1% 38% 82%

Ku-ring-gai 200 800 6,700 12,700 7,950 2,650 31,000 15% 15% 24% 19% 45% 68%

Lane Cove 150 600 2,900 7,950 2,450 850 14,900 30% 30% 44% 34% 57% 94%

Mosman -20 -80 200 -400 1,350 850 1,900 -6% -6% 4% -2% 29% 89%

North 120 480 2,300 10,300 4,950 1,450 19,600 15% 15% 35% 20% 56% 132% Sydney Northern 10 40 4,650 9,600 14,450 5,500 34,250 0% 0% 10% 6% 40% 78% Beaches

Ryde 540 2,160 9,400 26,400 10,350 2,850 51,700 36% 36% 51% 35% 71% 93%

Willoughby 60 240 1,750 5,600 4,250 1,400 13,300 6% 6% 14% 12% 49% 82%

NORTH 1,230 4,920 32,250 82,850 55,100 20,000 196,350 11% 11% 20% 16% 47% 85% DISTRICT GREATER 17,080 68,320 333,450 824,100 386,800 110,650 1,740,400 26% 26% 40% 29% 71% 124% SYDNEY

4.1.2 North District population Up to 25% of households speak a language characteristics other than English at home, compared to 37% across Greater Sydney with the greatest number A higher proportion of the North District of English as a second language speakers living adult population holds a bachelor degree or in Ryde and Hornsby. postgraduate degree than the Greater Sydney average. The District is home to a range of Figure 4-3: North District English as a Second higher education institutions. Language

Figure 4-2: North District higher education qualification attainment (2011) % % 28% 28% 28% 25 37

20% North Greater Sydney

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011 Census of Population and Housing 10% The 2015 Population Health Survey by the 7% NSW Ministry of Health indicates that around 44% of the adult population in North District is overweight or obese. Obesity is a chronic Bachelor Postgraduate Diploma or medical condition which is associated with a Degree Degree Certiﬁcate wide range of debilitating and life threatening conditions. In addition to this, the 2011 Census North District Greater Sydney identified around 27,000 people living with a Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011 disability in the North District and projections Census of Population and Housing indicate this will more than double in the next 20 years as the population ages. Across the District, average median household incomes are higher than those in Greater Sydney, while the District experiences lower rates of socio-economic disadvantage than much of Greater Sydney. Nevertheless, our Liveability Profile highlights that some neighbourhoods experience greater disadvantage, including pockets in the Hornsby, Willoughby and Northern Beaches local government areas. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people comprise a relatively small proportion of the population (0.3% as compared to 1.1% in Greater Sydney) with most living in parts of the Northern Beaches, Hornsby and Ryde local government areas. NORTH DISTRICT 78

4.1.3 North District dwelling and Conversely, North Sydney has high proportions household characteristics of single person (43%) and couple only (26%) households, as reflected in the comparatively The majority of people (56%) live in detached higher number of flats, units or apartments houses. Around one-third live in apartments (71%). and 9% in medium density type dwellings (including semi-detached, terrace and row Housing that can accommodate smaller housing). Most detached dwellings (87%) are households – such as terrace, row or courtyard either owned outright or being purchased, and housing and apartment buildings - is in the the majority of apartments (56%) are rented. greatest demand. Our planning for where we locate this housing should consider proximity The ageing of the population is reflected in to public transport, day-to-day needs, health, the mix of current and projected household education, infrastructure and services. types. For example, single person households are projected to increase by 32,800 households, Housing affordability is identified as a significant and couple only households by 23,500 by 2036. concern for many residents – our consultation found that only 9% rated the affordability Couples with children will continue as the of housing as ‘excellent/very good’. This is dominant household type in the North District. demonstrably lower than every other District By local government area, there is a high across Greater Sydney. Underscoring this point, proportion of couples with children in data from our evidence base and background Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai, with correspondingly studies show that there has been a significant high proportions of detached dwellings reduction over the last decade of homes (77% and 80% of stock respectively). that are affordable for households on low to moderate incomes.

Figure 4-4: North District dwelling structure by tenure type (2011)

180,000 160,000 140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 - Separate Medium Apartments House Density

Rented Mortgaged Owned outright

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011 Census of Population and Housing NORTH DISTRICT 79

Figure 4-5: North District projected household structure 2011 – 2036

- 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 450,000 500,000

2011

2016

2021

2026

2031

2036

Couple only Couple with children Single parent Other family households Multiple-family households Single person Group

Source: Department of Planning and Environment, (2016) New South Wales State and Local Government Area Populaiton and Household Projections and Implied Dwelling Requirements 2016 to 2036, NSW Government Sydney. Includes Hornsby Local Government Area pre-12 May 2016 proclamation. NORTH DISTRICT 80

4.2 Liveability priorities Create great places in the North District • Provide design-led planning This chapter outlines the liveability priorities and actions for the North District. • Plan for safe and healthy places -- Facilitate the delivery of safe and healthy The priorities are presented in two ways. Firstly, places each heading outlines a priority area, and we provide context and detail to expand on the • Enhance walking and cycling connections outcomes sought. Some headings cover factual -- Facilitate enhanced walking and cycling issues only; these are not included in the list connections below. Foster cohesive communities in the Secondly, within the broad priority areas there North District are, in many cases, more detailed priorities. We • Conserve and enhance environmental identify the specific purpose of these priorities heritage including Aboriginal, in each case by detailing how they relate to European and natural strategic planning and planning proposals. -- Conserve heritage and unique local The full list of liveability priorities covered in this characteristics section are outlined below. • Foster the creative arts and culture Improve housing choice -- Suppoort the creative arts and culture • Prepare local housing strategies • Create opportunities for more recreation and community facilities • Understand the Greater Sydney housing market and demand • Support planning for shared spaces • Deliver North District’s five- -- Share resources and spaces year housing supply target Respond to people’s need for services -- Deliver North District's five year housing • Plan to meet the demand for school facilities targets -- Support innovative school planning and • Establish the North District’s delivery 20-year strategic targets • Plan for the provision of early • Create housing capacity in the North District education and child care facilities Improve housing diversity and affordability • Support the provision of youth services • Plan for housing diversity • Support the Aboriginal community -- Deliver housing diversity -- Provide socially and culturally • Support planning for adaptable appropriate infrastructure and services housing and aged care • Support planning for health networks • Deliver Affordable Rental Housing • Plan for health facilities -- Implement the Affordable Rental and services Housing Target -- Support planning for health • Support social housing in the North District infrastructure -- Increase social housing provision • Plan for emergency services • Facilitate integrated infrastructure planning -- Support planning for emergency services Coordinate and monitor housing outcomes • Plan for cemeteries and crematoria and demographic trends -- Support planning for cemeteries and crematoria. NORTH DISTRICT 81

4.3 Improve housing choice Our approach to the housing continuum All successful and growing global cities face To improve capacity across the full housing the challenge of providing greater housing continuum, our approach aims to support supply and choice. With Greater Sydney’s robust and enhance: economy, unprecedented levels of population creating conditions to growth and strong investment interest, demand • Delivery: support the supply of housing in well- for housing across Greater Sydney is rapidly planned locations served by sufficient increasing. Notable demographic change local and regional infrastructure means that significant new and different forms of housing will be required in Sydney to 2036. • Capacity: so that existing planning The Commission is committed to achieving controls and new investigation areas this outcome in a way that also builds a more are creating sufficient opportunity inclusive city (particularly for the elderly and for housing supply targets by 2036 women) and a more equitable city (particularly • Diversity and adaptability: the diversity for those entering the housing market for the of housing types including small lot first time). To achieve this the Commission housing, terraces and apartments in will leverage existing and new infrastructure a variety of configurations (one, two projects to enhance housing opportunities. and three+ bedrooms) and more adaptable and accessible forms of Key to planning for this growth is recognising housing for older people, people that the nature of this demand varies by with disabilities and families location, by community and by household. To meet the needs of different cultural, socio- • Affordability: building on the direction economic and age groups a variety of housing in A Plan for Growing Sydney by setting choices must be delivered across Greater a target for the provision of affordable Sydney as well as the North District. This supply rental housing in new urban renewal must be achieved through a range of housing and land release areas for the low and types, tenures and price points. We refer to the very low income households that are range of housing choices in this draft District the most vulnerable. This also relates Plan as the housing continuum (Figure 4-6). to supporting a supply of diverse housing types in the private market More specifically the housing continuum refers that are more affordable to key workers to all types of housing including detached and moderate income households dwellings, apartments, terraces and villas. Social housing: the provision of social It refers to different tenures including dwellings • housing to meet the needs of the that are owned outright, mortgaged or rented. growing number of households requiring It also refers to homes occupied by single social housing (presently the waiting people, families, groups as well as households list has 37,660 households in Greater living in housing stress, through to people on Sydney) and to reduce homelessness. high incomes.

Figure 4-6: The housing continuum Housing Supply Continuum

Private market Affordable Emergency affordable housing Transitional Social housing Affordable home shelters (including boarding & (including rental ownership housing and student Private market Housing & Supported public housing & accommodation rental housing ownership Crisis housing housing) Shared that may be accommodation ownership government subsidised)

Government Subsidised Community Market Housing Housing Housing Sector including housing provided by the non-market housing government and community sector

Source: Greater Sydney Commission, 2016 adapted from City of Sydney, Housing Issues Paper April 2015 NORTH DISTRICT 82

NSW Government initiatives In September 2016, the NSW Government Local government and State agencies are released the discussion paper Foundations implementing policies and measures to support for Change – Homelessness in NSW, which the delivery of housing across the continuum. aims to engage organisations and individuals Currently the Department of Planning and to strengthen collective action to reduce Environment is: homelessness. It focuses on the prevention of homelessness, rather than simply trying to • implementing the State Environmental manage it. Planning Policy (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009, which allows for the development of The private sector and agencies such as new generation boarding houses in various UrbanGrowth NSW and Land and Housing locations with floor space incentives subject Corporation also work with councils in the North to environmental and design standards. District to improve housing choice, diversity and affordability. NSW Government-led projects The Department of Family and Community in these areas seek to improve the quality of Services is implementing: housing while providing a better mix of social • Future Directions for Social Housing in and private housing to instil a greater sense NSW, which aims to increase the number of community. of households that transition out of social Figure 4-7 shows how the Commissions's housing, using affordable rental housing as a proposal initiatives align with current NSW stepping stone to the private rental market Government initiatives. • the Communities Plus Program, which improves diversity through mixed use renewal of existing areas of concentrated social housing • the Social and Affordable Housing Fund, which will fund 3,000 additional social and affordable houses in its first tranche through innovative partnerships between community housing providers, non-government organisations and the private sector.

Figure 4-7: NSW Government and Greater Sydney Commission housing initiatives

Own Homelessness Social Housing Affordable Rental Housing Rent

NSW · Discussion Paper: · Department of Family and · State Environmental Planning · Land Release Priority Growth Areas Government Foundation for Change Community Services Policy No.70 Affordable and Priority Precincts Initiatives - Homelessness in NSW · Future Directions for Housing (Revised Schemes) · Greenﬁeld Social Housing in NSW · Urban renewal · Communities Plus · Transformational corridors · Social and Affordable · Housing Acceleration Fund Housing Fund · Council facilitated rezonings · Intergrated housing · State Environmental Planning Policy developments (Housing for Seniors or People with · Private, non-government a Disability) 2004 and community housing sector · State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009 · Design guide for apartments · Design guide for medium density housing

Greater + Align planning with + Affordable Rental Housing + Local Housing Strategies Sydney Communities Plus program targets for urban renewal + Housing Diversity Commission and land release areas + Housing Adaptability Proposed Initiatives

Source: Greater Sydney Commission 2016 NORTH DISTRICT 83

Another important NSW Government partner • challenges and opportunities relating in the housing continuum is the community to infrastructure provision housing sector. This sector has grown • urban form and place making considerably in the last five to 10 years and plays • accessibility of housing to an important intermediary role in providing employment opportunities housing choice. Support for this sector will bolster opportunities for people to move out of social • ways to address housing diversity that are housing and provides greater support for the relevant to the needs of the existing and most vulnerable households living in future local housing market including housing stress. opportunities for, and blockages to, housing diversity and adaptability Our planning needs to complement and support • opportunities to improve these initiatives and projects. It is our role to housing affordability work collectively across government, the not- for-profit and private sectors to find innovative • the prospective displacement solutions that can address housing affordability of affordable housing and diversity. This includes the provision of • opportunities for additional capacity greater housing choice for people with a around strategic and district centres disability, and the provision of larger homes for and other areas with good transport intergenerational or group households, seniors connectivity and service provision housing and aged-care options. • specific local market complexities including addressing ways to incentivise 4.3.1 Prepare local housing strategies for the provision of larger group homes, smaller homes for singles To provide a comprehensive understanding and couples only, intergenerational of how a district or local government area homes and medium density housing responds to housing need, each council will required by the local community need to prepare a local housing strategy. • consider ways to provide adaptable Alternatively, councils may agree to collaborate housing in accordance with design and prepare a district housing strategy. These guidelines by Livable Housing Australia. strategies are to be underpinned by the housing continuum. The requirements are set out below and detailed in the following sections.

Action L1: Prepare local housing strategies Councils will prepare local housing strategies and need to consider:

• the planning principles and directions in A Plan for Growing Sydney • capacity to support the five- year housing target • capacity to support the strategic housing need of the local government area for the next 20 years • local demographic and socio- economic characteristics • the local housing market including the feasibility of development for different housing types • development staging and market take-up rates and how this aligns with demand NORTH DISTRICT 84

4.3.2 Understand the Greater Sydney Greater Sydney is experiencing a strong housing market and demand housing market with record levels of housing approvals fuelled by low interest rates, To better understand how we can support the sustained population growth and a strong supply of new housing across the continuum in investor interest. Research provided by the the North District we need to first understand Department of Planning and Environment tells the factors influencing Greater Sydney’s housing us that dwelling approvals and completions market together with the characteristics of are currently at their highest levels in 16 years more local housing markets operating within for Greater Sydney, although the North District the District. The following Housing Market Areas has experienced fluctuations in the amount of Map and summary later in this section provide dwelling approvals over the past decade from a discussion on the specific housing markets a high in 1999 -2000. Figure 4-8 shows historic identified in the North District. A consideration dwelling completions and Figure 4-9 shows of these factors should form the starting point additional dwellings across the District in the for any local housing strategy. last five years and highlights development along the T1 North Shore train line and Pacific Highway as well as in the vicinity of Ryde.

Figure 4-8: North District dwelling completions 1998/99 to 2015/16

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16

Source: Department of Planning and Environment, Metropolitan Housing Monitor Greater Sydney Region (2016) NORTH DISTRICT 85

Figure 4-9: North District housing completions (2010/11 to 2015/16)

Metropolitan Stratvegic Centre 21+ Dwellings Motorway Rural Area

District Centre 1-2 Dwellings Scenic Hills Highway

National Parks District Boundary 3-5 Dwellings Railway and Reserves Metropolitan 6-20 Dwellings Waterway Railway Station Urban Area

Source: Department of Planning and Environment, 2016 Metropolitan Housing Monitor Greater Sydney Region NORTH DISTRICT 86

Significant efforts in recent years by local and • due to past undersupply in Greater State government has provided substantial Sydney’s housing market there is ‘pent improvements in capacity to deliver a pipeline up’ demand at particular price points of development across many parts of Greater adding to demand for additional housing Sydney. As a consequence, the 30,200 dwellings • there is the case for a contingency to (excluding granny flats) completed across be added to the demand estimates to Greater Sydney in the 2015/2016 financial year address the two prior reasons along with is now closer to the estimated number of new any other unforeseen changes over the dwellings we need each year to meet demand next 20 year period such as potential (36,250 dwellings per annum) than at any point blockages to achieving supply. in the past decade. Housing completions for Greater Sydney On this basis the Department of Planning and in 2016/2017 are anticipated to exceed the Environment estimates that Greater Sydney average annual demand figure of 36,250. needs 725,000 additional dwellings over the This exceptional rate of supply, owing to the next 20 years and 97,000 additional dwellings in strong development pipeline, is anticipated to the North District. continue for the next few years under current We consider this projection a minimum market conditions. In fact, the rate of annual requirement for three reasons: completions over the next few years is likely to reach the highest levels achieved since • it is based on the medium population 1999/2000. Figure 4-10 shows the historic growth scenario and if current trends dwelling approvals and completions across continue, there is a prospect that a higher Greater Sydney. growth scenario could transpire leading to greater housing demand over the A peak of 37,800 completions per annum is 20-year period of this draft District Plan possible under current market conditions. Even with this exceptional supply, this only modestly exceeds the average annual level of demand and in turn only marginally counters the undersupply of housing that occurred over the past decade.

Figure 4-10: Greater Sydney historic dwelling completions and approvals (1998/99 to 2015/16)

60,000

50,000

40,000

30,000

20,000

10,000

1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16

NORTH DISTRICT Source: Department of Planning and Environment 2016, Metropolitan Housing Monitor Greater Sydney Region 87

Given the timeframes associated with bringing new capacity and in turn delivering supply Greater Sydney Housing Market Areas to the market, our research indicates that Research indicates that people living the planning system will need to continue to in Greater Sydney generally prefer to identify areas to create additional capacity remain within their local area when they to sustain these outcomes going forward. move, with 82% of residents moving to a Given the scale of the challenge to maintain new home within 15 kilometres of their this over the next 20 years we will start the former residence. For this reason we have planning process to increase housing capacity investigated what this means for the North opportunities in partnership with councils now. District so that people can enjoy have greater housing choice within their district. On this basis, we propose a number of approaches to guide the process: The assessment of these preferences showed that Greater Sydney contains 18 1. a five-year supply target by local housing market areas. The implication of government area (in accordance with these distinct housing market areas is that Action 2.1.1 of A Plan for Growing Sydney) providing supply in one market demand 2. a 20-year strategic housing target by area may not satisfy demand in another. local government area that allows for Understanding need and capacity by the planning for sustained capacity over individual housing markets will better the period of this draft District Plan provide for people’s preferred housing 3. the identification of new areas for choices. housing to achieve these targets. North District Market Areas (Figure 4-11) Each of these initiatives and how they relate In the North District these areas are: to the North District are explored in the Northern Beaches, aligned next section. • with the Northern Beaches Local Government Area • North Shore, from the northern shore of Sydney Harbour to the northern most point of the Ku-ring-gai Local Government Area and focused around the T1 North Shore train line • Central North, from Parramatta River through Ryde and Hornsby in a north-south corridor around the T1 Northern train line • Rouse Hill – Dural, of which a small part lies in Hornsby Local Government Area. NORTH DISTRICT 88

Northern Beaches

North Shore

Central North

Blacktown – Marayong

Parramatta

HOUSING DEMAND AREAS MARKET Rouse Hill – Dural

Figure 4-11: North District housing market areas

Priority Areas and Precincts Strategic Centre Highway (including investigation)

District Centre Railway Waterways

District Boundary Railway Station National and State Parks

Local Government Area (LGA) Motorway

Source: Greater Sydney Commission, 2016 adapted from Implementing metropolitan planning strategies: taking into account local

NORTH DISTRICT housing demand, Technical Report (2013), City Futures Research Centre, UNSW 89

4.3.3 Deliver North District’s five-year Table 4-2: North District’s five-year housing housing supply target targets by local government area (2016 – 2021) The Department of Planning and Environment’s projections of population and household Local Government 2016-2021 Housing Area Target growth in North District for the next five years translates to a dwelling need of 24,100 dwellings Hornsby 4,350 (including Epping in the former Hornsby Local Government Area). Hunters Hill 150 Owing to the current strong housing market, Ku-ring-gai 4,000 our testing using the Urban Feasibility Model, Lane Cove 1,900 the Department of Planning and Environment’s planning tool to understand housing capacity Mosman 300 and the economic feasibility of residential North Sydney 3,000 development, confirms there are opportunities in North District to deliver beyond this Northern Beaches 3,400 minimum dwelling need in the short term. This is important to address pent up demand Ryde 7,600 that has resulted from past undersupply. It is Willoughby 1,250 also important to address housing choice and affordability. North District Total 25,950

As such, we have has identified a five-year Source: Greater Sydney Commission, 2016 housing target that is based on both the District’s dwelling need and the opportunity to deliver supply. (Table 4-2) The five-year target relates to housing including traditional detached and attached houses, apartments and granny flats. The realisation of the housing targets relies on actions by the relevant planning authorities (from enabling planning controls through to development assessment), infrastructure provision and the continuation of current market conditions and industry’s critical role in delivery. NORTH DISTRICT 90

These targets are supported by NSW Liveability Priority 1: Government programs that increase capacity Deliver North District’s five-year and supply including Priority Precincts, Urban housing targets Growth Transformation and Communities Plus projects. To deliver these five- year housing targets, councils need to: There are several significant projects that currently provide capacity for housing supply in • plan to provide sufficient capacity the short term. These include: and monitor delivery of the five-year housing targets • North Ryde Station Priority Precinct: which will help to provide new parks and • liaise with the Commission to identify open space, walking and cycling links, barriers to delivering additional housing community facilities, and 3,000 new in accordance with the targets. homes and 1,500 jobs within a 10-minute How these matters have been taken into walk of existing and enhanced public account need to be demonstrated in any transport. The precinct was rezoned in relevant planning proposal. 2013. Construction has commenced. • Macquarie University Station (Herring Road) Priority Precinct: which will deliver up 4.3.4 Establish the North District’s to 5,800 new homes by 2031 and includes 20-year strategic target the redevelopment of Ivanhoe Estate. The Notwithstanding the existing strength of rezoning proposal for the precinct was Greater Sydney’s housing market, planning has finalised in September 2015. Development a central role in ensuring sufficient capacity is will be staged over the next 10 to 20 years. created to support the delivery of a minimum of The NSW Government is also accelerating the 725,000 additional new dwellings over the next capacity for housing supply across the District 20 years across Greater Sydney. through the following projects: This significant challenge requires sustained • Cherrybrook Station Precinct: which is efforts by all councils and given the timescales part of the Sydney Metro Northwest Priority associated with development, a longer-term Urban Renewal Corridor to maximise access outlook and capacity-based approach and opportunities for more housing and jobs is needed. • Ingleside Precinct: in the Northern A capacity-based approach creates the Beaches Local Government Area. opportunity to address a range of factors Monitoring the realisation of these new homes including: in the North District will help inform the • opportunities to address pent up demand Commission’s Annual Infrastructure across Greater Sydney consistent with the Priority list and subsequent advice to the estimates of the NSW Intergenerational NSW Government. Report that there is unmet demand for a further 100,000 dwellings across NSW above the projection of dwelling need by the Department of Planning and Environment • the prospect of the higher population projections for Greater Sydney being released (the estimated demand for 725,000 additional dwellings by 2036 is based on the medium population projection scenario) • the need to improve housing choice together with opportunities for people to live locally NORTH DISTRICT 91

• the productivity benefits of additional The testing and progression of these areas housing supply, consistent with through more detailed planning should the calculations provided by NSW then be undertaken via the preparation of Intergenerational Report council’s district or local housing strategies and • the need for a contingency to incorporate the Department of Planning and support steady supply across each Environment’s priority precinct program and of Greater Sydney’s districts in the other programs such as UrbanGrowth NSW or case of unforeseen blockages Communities Plus. • that not all capacity built into the planning A framework to guide this process is set out in system is realised as development, nor are the following section and Section 4.3.6 provides all approvals commenced or completed. preliminary analysis of these areas based on our initial research and investigations, while Action Councils should therefore start considering L3 provides further guidance on where to focus now, through the preparation of local or district these investigation areas. housing strategies how additional capacity can be created from which the private and not-for- profit sector can deliver supply and housing Action L2: Identify the choice. These housing strategies are to meet the opportunities to create the District’s 20-year housing target as a minimum. capacity to deliver 20-year strategic housing supply Table 4-3: North District minimum targets 20-year housing target (2016 – 2036) The Commission will:

Minimum 20-year • prepare 20-year strategic housing housing target targets and include these in the 2016 - 2036 final District Plan and the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney North District* 97,000 • work with councils and the Department North District Total 725,000 of Planning and Environment to Note. *Includes Epping which is now part of identify investigation areas for Parramatta City Local Government Area additional housing capacity to form Source: Department of Planning and Environment, part of a local housing strategy. 2016 NSW State and Local Government Area Population and Household projections and Implied Dwelling Requirements 2016 to 2036, NSW Government, Sydney

To ensure that new housing capacity opportunities leverage current and future infrastructure provision while improving Greater Sydney’s equity and liveability, we will work with local and State Government, as well as communities and industry, to identify new and expanded opportunities for housing capacity in proximity to existing and planned infrastructure. Once identified these areas can be incorporated as investigation areas within the final District Plans and the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney to be further developed in 2017. This process will also help us to establish a new and specific 20-year strategic target to 2036 for each local government area in 2017 and continue to inform our infrastructure priority list and advice to government. NORTH DISTRICT 92

Strategic guidance for new Urban renewal housing capacity Urban renewal provides opportunities for new housing focus in existing and new centres A Plan for Growing Sydney Goal 2 is for a city with frequent public transport that can carry of housing choice, with homes that meet our large number of passengers – meaning that needs and lifestyles. The Plan's Directions more people live in areas that provide access included: to jobs. • accelerate housing supply A Plan for Growing Sydney identifies possible across Greater Sydney urban renewal corridors, providing guidance • accelerate urban renewal across Greater as to the locations of urban renewal. These Sydney – providing homes close to jobs opportunities need to be investigated to • improve housing choice to suit provide capacity for new housing in the different needs and lifestyles medium and longer term. The need for this • deliver timely well planned land additional capacity is greatest in the North release precincts and housing and Central Districts. Since the release of A Plan for Growing In addition to the general guidance provided Sydney the projections for growth have been in A Plan for Growing Sydney, we propose revised upwards. The projections include criteria for investigating urban renewal multiple scenarios with the middle scenario corridors: of 725,000 additional dwellings over 2016- • Alignment with investment in regional 2036. This is an increase of 9% from A Plan for and district infrastructure. This Growing Sydney owing to revised population acknowledges the catalytic impacts projections. The projections for a high growth of infrastructure such as Sydney Metro scenario require an additional 830,000 Northwest and Sydney Metro City & dwellings. Southwest, NorthConnex, WestConnex, There is a need to accelerate housing supply Sydney CBD and South East Light Rail, across Greater Sydney to accommodate Parramatta Light Rail and Northern new housing growth while also responding Beaches Hospital and any other future to housing affordability. While the planning projects committed to by the NSW system cannot directly build new homes, Government. It also acknowledges the we have a key role to play in creating opportunities created by enhancements opportunities for new housing in the right to existing infrastructure. locations. We refer to this as ‘capacity’. • Accessibility to jobs, noting almost To do this, we need clear criteria as to where half of Greater Sydney’s jobs are in additional capacity needs to be located. Our strategic and district centres. vision for accommodating homes for the next • Accessibility to regional transport, generation is intrinsically linked to planning noting that high-frequency transport for, and integration with, new infrastructure services will create efficient connections and services. We identify the opportunities to to local transport services and do this in three ways. expand the catchment area of people who can access regional transport within a decent travel time. • The catchment area that is within walking distance of centres with regional transport. • The feasibility of development, including financial viability across a range of housing types (one, two, three+ bedrooms) and consistency with market demand. NORTH DISTRICT 93

• Proximity to services including schools and health facilities. • Consideration of heritage and cultural elements, visual impacts, natural elements such as flooding, special land uses and other environmental constraints. • Consideration of local features such as topography, lot sizes, strata ownership and the transition between the potential area and existing nearby areas. • Delivery considerations such as staging, enabling infrastructure, upgrades or expansions of social infrastructure such as local schools, open space and community facilities. infrastructure such as local schools, open space and community facilities.

Medium density infill development Medium density development within existing areas can provide a greater variety of housing sizes to suit individual household needs, preferences and budgets. Many parts of suburban Greater Sydney that are not within walking distance of regional transport (rail, light rail and regional bus routes) contain older housing stock. These areas present local opportunities to renew older housing with medium density housing. The Department of Planning and Environment’s Draft Medium Density Design Guide shows how this local scale renewal can promote good design outcomes. The planning regulations that support delivery are set out in the Department’s proposed Medium Density Housing Code. Councils are in the best position to investigate opportunities for medium density in these areas, which we refer to as the ‘missing middle’. Medium density housing is ideally located in transition areas between urban renewal precincts and existing suburbs, particularly around local centres and within the one to five-kilometre catchment of regional transport where links for walking and cycling help promote a healthy lifestyle.

New communities in land release areas Land release is addressed in detail in the draft District Plans for Western Sydney districts.

Photo credit: Calder Flower Architects NORTH DISTRICT 94

4.3.5 Create housing capacity in the Action L3: Councils to increase North District housing capacity across Over the last 10 years local government studies the District have investigated opportunities to increase capacity for housing supply in the North District In order to increase housing supply including: and choice councils are required to implement the following actions and where • Hornsby Shire Housing Strategy (2011) appropriate incorporate into local housing • Lane Cove Village Structure Plan (2008) strategies: • Manly Housing and Employment Hornsby Local Government Area Targets Report (2011) Council will: • Mosman Residential Development Strategy (Updated 2016) • monitor and support the delivery of • North Sydney Residential Hornsby’s five-year housing target of Development Strategy (2011) 4,350 dwellings, recognising significant growth at West Hornsby and the • North Sydney Local Development potential along Pennant Hills Road Strategy (2011) • investigate local opportunities to • Pittwater Local Planning Strategy (2011) address demand and diversity in • Ryde Local Planning Study (2010) the short to medium term with a • St Leonards Strategy (2006) particular focus on rail corridors. • St Leonards South Master Plan (2014) Hunters Hill Local Government Area • St Leonards/ Crows Nest Planning Study Council will: (2012 - Precinct 1) and (2015 - Precincts 2&3) • monitor and support the delivery of • Warringah Draft Housing Strategy (2011) Hunters Hill’s five-year housing target of 150 • Willoughby Structure Plan (2010). dwellings recognising limited opportunities Projects in the investigation phase include: for additional housing under current settings

• St Leonards and Crows Nest Station • investigate opportunities for additional Precinct in Willoughby, Lane Cove and housing at local centres and close to North Sydney Local Government Areas transport in the short to medium term. • Macquarie Park Investigation Area, Ku-ring-gai Local Government Area Ryde Local Government Area Council will: • Northern Beaches Hospital, Northern • monitor and support the delivery of Beaches Local Government Area. Ku-ring-gai’s five-year housing target of The potential capacity generated by these 4,000 dwellings recognising significant areas will help address housing supply growth along the Pacific Highway capacity over the medium term. More details • work with the Commission and Transport for on the St Leonards and Crows Nest Precinct NSW to identify urban renewal opportunities and Macquarie Park Investigation Areas is on the T1 North Shore rail line corridor available on the Department of Planning and • investigate local opportunities to Environment website. address demand and diversity in and around local centres and infill areas. NORTH DISTRICT 95

Lane Cove Local Government Area North Sydney Local Government Area Council will: Council will:

• monitor and support the delivery of Lane • monitor and support the delivery Cove’s five-year housing target of 1,900 of North Sydney’s five-year housing dwellings recognising significant growth target of 3000 homes in the precinct adjacent to St Leonards • progress priority precinct investigations • progress the priority precinct investigations at St Leonards/Crows Nest with the at St Leonards/Crows Nest with Department Department of Planning and Environment of Planning and Environment • work with the Commission and Transport • work with the Commission and Transport for NSW to identify urban renewal for NSW to identify urban renewal opportunities that connect to Sydney Metro opportunities that connect to Sydney Metro • investigate local opportunities to • investigate local opportunities to address demand and diversity in and address demand and diversity in and around local centres and infill areas. around local centres and infill areas. Ryde Local Government Area Northern Beaches Local Government Area Council will: Council will: • monitor and support the delivery of • monitor and support the delivery Ryde’s five-year housing target of 7,600 of Northern Beaches’ five-year recognising significant growth in the housing target of 3,400 dwellings precinct at North Ryde and Herring Road • progress the proposed Priority Growth • progress priority precinct investigations Area program at Ingleside with the at Macquarie Park with the Department Department of Planning and Environment of Planning and Environment • work with the Commission to improve • work with the Commission and Transport accessibility and urban renewal for NSW to identify urban renewal opportunities for employment and opportunities that connect to Sydney Metro housing at Northern Beaches Hospital • investigate local opportunities to • work with the Commission and address demand and diversity in and Transport for NSW to identify the around local centres and infill areas. need for housing diversity and Willoughby Local Government Area infrastructure capacity to inform Council’s preparation of a local housing Council will: strategy in the short to medium term • monitor and support the delivery of • investigate local opportunities to Willoughby’s five-year housing target of address demand and diversity in and 1,250 dwellings, recognising significant around local centres and infill areas. growth under the local environmental plan

Mosman Local Government Area • progress the priority precinct investigations at St Leonards/Crows Nest with the Council will: Department of Planning and Environment • monitor and support the delivery of • work with the Commission and Transport Mosman’s five-year housing target of 300 for NSW to identify urban renewal dwellings, recognising limited opportunities opportunities that connect to Sydney Metro for additional housing under current settings • investigate local opportunities to • work with the Commission and Transport for address demand and diversity in and NSW to identify urban renewal opportunities around local centres and infill areas. associated with investment in transport • investigate local opportunities to address demand and diversity in and around local centres and infill areas. NORTH DISTRICT 96

4.4 Improve housing diversity Due to planning context and recent economic and affordability conditions there has been significant supply of apartments in the North District and this is Quality of life relies on how connected people expected to continue. This provides transitional feel within society and how cohesive and housing for seniors and more affordable homes safe their community is. Many people want to for young people. However, they do not supply stay in the area where they have always lived, the full range of housing types. More medium regardless of their stage of life. This keeps them density row, terrace and villa homes are also connected to friends and family, GPs, services, required to provide greater diversity. In addition, community facilities and local clubs. Our the North District’s increasing proportion of planning can help to facilitate this, by providing older people and people with a disability will a mix of all the different types of housing people require the delivery of additional smaller homes, need. This is known as housing diversity. group homes, adaptable homes and aged care facilities. 4.4.1 Plan for housing diversity This projected growth in people aged 65+ Dwelling completions in the North District in the North District means that there must over the past five years show a mix of new be more emphasis on planning for housing apartments and detached dwellings. diversity particularly seniors housing and aged Detached dwellings are more prominent in care options that allow people to age in place. local government areas that are further from It will also result in a proportional increase in the Sydney City, such as Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, demand for health and community services Hunters Hill, the former Pittwater Council, together with cultural activities that facilitate Ryde and Warringah. continued social inclusion. The ability to age in place, and in community, is fundamental The North District’s increasing proportion of to liveability, as it allows people to maintain older people and people with a disability will established connections with neighbours, require the delivery of additional smaller homes, friends and family, and importantly, with health group homes, adaptable homes and aged and community services. care facilities. A recent review of the Department of Planning Planning for a diversity of housing needs to first and Environment’s Apartment Design consider the nature of existing housing stock Guidelines provides consistent planning and (dwelling type or bedroom mix) and current design standards for apartments across NSW. and future needs. It then needs to consider The Department of Planning and Environment the commercial feasibility of different housing has prepared similar guidance for medium types – for example, the financial viability density housing, given the ability of this type of of development of different housing types housing to satisfy future demand for housing such as studios compared to three-bedroom diversity, choice and affordability. apartments can vary greatly in different areas. Updated data on housing completions and We need innovative responses to feasibility types, housing market areas and demographic barriers, particularly in areas where demand change will drive more appropriate planning for smaller homes is combined with low floor responses. space ratios and/or mostly detached dwellings, creating a barrier to building medium density Councils will need to consider the needs of the housing. Some planning controls inhibit the local population base on their Local Housing development of larger intergenerational or Strategy and how to align local planning group homes. controls and good design outcomes for different types of housing. NORTH DISTRICT 97

Action L4: Encourage 4.4.2 Support planning for adaptable housing diversity housing and aged care Our planning should support adaptable housing To encourage diversity and adaptability, the that can be easily modified to become more NSW Government and the Department of accessible to accommodate people who are Planning and Environment will: ageing or living with a disability. Adaptable housing can better accommodate these needs • develop a toolkit to support the where it confirms with guidelines published preparation of local housing strategies by Livable Housing Australia. These guidelines • provide housing data to the relate to good housing design and adaptability development sector, councils and set out features that create long-term and financiers to help them to homes for the whole community, regardless of understand the existing housing age, ability or changing life circumstances. mix provision and meet the provide The best way to provide seniors housing and the appropriate housing mix. aged care is to co-locate them in places that have a mix of different uses and services, with good quality footpaths and pedestrian Liveability Priority 2: connections that make it easy for people to Deliver housing diversity meet their day to day needs, or visit health services and community and cultural facilities. When preparing local environmental plans, These places also need adequate parking for relevant planning authorities will need to in-home care visitation services. consider the needs of the local population base on their local housing strategy and how to align local planning controls that: The difference between housing affordability and Affordable • address housing diversity that is Rental Housing relevant to the needs of the existing This draft District Plan uses two different and future local housing market but interrelated terms. Housing affordability • deliver quality design outcomes is a broad term that we use to describe the for both buildings and places challenges people across a range of income How these matters have been taken into groups experience in finding affordable account need to be demonstrated in any accommodation to rent or own. relevant planning proposal. If a household is spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs it is likely to impact their ability to afford other living costs such as food, clothing, transport and utilities. Because of this, these households are described as being in housing stress. Affordable Rental Housing is a specific term that we use to describe our approach to addressing the gap in housing provision for those on low and very low incomes. NORTH DISTRICT 98

4.4.3 The affordable In addition, implementation of the Affordable housing challenge Rental Housing Target outlined here does not impede the operation of other existing planning The Greater Sydney housing market is controls that address affordable housing such recognised as one of the least affordable in as State Environmental Planning Policy 70 – the world. In the last decade alone, the ratio of Affordable Housing (Revised Schemes) and house prices to incomes has continued to grow State Environmental Planning Policy (Affordable while median rents have increased in real terms. Rental Housing) 2009. This target does not Our stakeholder engagement identified housing preclude councils from negotiating additional affordability as a key challenge for the North affordable housing for moderate income District and more broadly for Greater Sydney. households, nor does it affect existing planning This challenge is particularly acute in mechanisms that secure affordable housing established areas undergoing urban renewal across the full income range, such as those in and gentrification, but is also evident in the City of Sydney or Willoughby. greenfield development. Development provides additional housing but can also reduce the 4.4.4 Deliver Affordable affordability of housing and displace low Rental Housing income households. More broadly, our research shows that the Affordable Rental Housing Targets provision of affordable housing across a range of tenures, types and price points is more than a This draft District Plan proposes an liveability priority. Internationally, the provision of Affordable Rental Housing Target that builds more affordable forms of housing is recognised on Action 2.3.3 of A Plan for Growing Sydney. to have notable productivity benefits. One It requires State and local governments London-based study found that over £1 billion a to create affordable housing within year would be lost in potential extra economic government-led urban renewal projects. output if London failed to meet the affordable Our approach seeks to give greater clarity to housing needs of its residents. councils and the development industry with regards to implementing this Action. For this reason, this draft District Plan identifies a range of measures to improve affordability While Affordable Rental Housing Targets across the housing continuum. We want to are not new to Greater Sydney, to date encourage the supply of housing with a focus the approach to targets in significant on the type of housing that the District needs developments such as Sydney Olympic as it grows, not just in numbers, but also in the Park, Rouse Hill, Redfern and Green Square diversity of housing types and sizes that offers has not been consistent. Our approach will different price points and can help improve be transparent, and tailored to the urban affordability. However, housing supply and economics of the area in question so as not diversity are only part of the solution, and an to hinder housing supply outcomes, and to Affordable Rental Housing Target complements meet the needs of Greater Sydney’s most these approaches to the affordable housing vulnerable. challenge. A target also complements other government initiatives to address affordability across the housing continuum that include the Department of Family and Community Services Social and Affordable Housing Fund and Communities Plus initiatives. NORTH DISTRICT 99

The implementation of an Affordable Rental • support residents transitioning Housing Target complements other approaches out of social housing to the housing affordability challenge, such as • provide housing opportunities closer to increasing the supply of homes across Greater employment centres that will, in turn, Sydney (as set out in the previous section of reduce pressure on transport infrastructure. this Plan) and assisting households that require government support via social housing. The Affordable Rental Housing Target therefore aims to: Low and very low income households need the greatest help in securing affordable housing • be directed to eligible households on low options. Recent research by the Australian and very low incomes whose housing Housing and Urban Research Institute found needs are not met by the market that the group of households most likely to be • support essential workers to in long-term housing stress are couples with live close to their work children (particularly those aged between 35 • support a mix of household and 54) and households with a family member types within communities with a disability. Recent research estimates that • support the transition out of social housing Greater Sydney requires at least 4,000 to 8,000 additional affordable dwellings per annum to • support development of the meet the needs of this income group. community housing sector. Our approach to affordable rental housing has therefore been designed to meet the needs of Sydney’s most vulnerable to:

• provide additional rental opportunities (in urban renewal and land release areas) in light of declining rental affordability across Greater Sydney

Who is eligible for housing provided through this Affordable Rental Housing Target? Affordable housing is defined under the EP&A Act as housing for very low income households, low income households or moderate income households. Low and very low income households are the most vulnerable to housing stress because proportionally they have less money for living costs once they have paid their housing costs. This draft District Plan identifies the most vulnerable households as eligible for housing secured by Affordable Rental Housing Targets and defined by the income groups in the table below:

% of median Household income Sydney income 2016/17 income range

Very low 50% < $42,300 per annum or $813 per week

Low 50% - 80% up to $67,600 per annum or $1,300 per week

People on moderate incomes also experience housing stress and often work in key service areas such as health and education. Accordingly, we support housing affordability for these groups more generally by providing greater housing choice through a mix of dwelling types and price points as discussed in section 4.3.1. NORTH DISTRICT 100

Action L5: Independently assess need Liveability Priority 3: and viability Implement the Affordable We will work with industry, Rental Housing Target community housing providers Building on Action 2.3.3 of A Plan for and the Department of Planning Growing Sydney, when preparing planning and Environment to enable clear proposals or strategic plans for new urban and consistent implementation of the target renewal or greenfield areas, the relevant that is cognisant of flow on housing supply planning authority will include an Affordable implications. Rental Housing Target as a form of Where required, we will act independently inclusionary zoning. to verify the development feasibility of a A target of 5% to 10% of new floor space will nominated target. We will also provide advice to be applied at the rezoning stage so that it government and determine where exceptions can factored into the development equation: may be granted – for example, where the provision of affordable housing would financially • within areas that have been shown, via a hinder the delivery of a critical or major local housing strategy, or another form of component of city-making infrastructure. appropriate research, to have current or future need for affordable rental housing We will undertake a strategic needs assessment • to applicable land within new urban for Affordable Rental Housing across Greater renewal or greenfield areas (government Sydney to support the work of relevant planning and private) subject to development authorities in preparing their local or district feasibility assessed at a precinct scale housing strategies. • to all new floor space (above the Action L6: Support councils to achieve existing permissible floor space) additional affordable housing • in addition to local and State In relevant areas, we will support development contributions and councils and the Department of cognisant of any public or private subsidy Planning and Environment in for affordable rental housing provision amending SEPP 70 – Affordable • to provide a range of dwelling Housing (Revised Schemes). The application of types including one, two and the target identified in this draft District Plan three+ bedroom homes should not prejudice negotiations to secure • in accordance with any relevant affordable housing in other locations where this guidance developed by the target is not applicable. Commission and Department of Action L7: Provide guidance on Planning and Environment. Affordable Rental Housing Targets The Affordable Rental Housing dwellings We will prepare a guidance note on will be secured by the relevant planning Affordable Rental Housing Targets in authority and passed onto a registered collaboration with the Department of Community Housing Provider to manage, Planning and Environment, local further developing this emerging sector of government, State agencies, community the economy. housing providers, the private sector and the In this regard, we encourage the NSW community. Government to bring forward its own land to maximise affordable housing and Affordable Rental Housing. How these matters have been taken into account need to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal. NORTH DISTRICT 101

Action L8: Undertake broad approaches Communities Plus to facilitate affordable housing Communities Plus will deliver up to 23,000 To address housing affordability more new and replacement social housing broadly, we will work with councils, dwellings, 500 affordable housing dwellings industry, financial institutions and and up to 40,000 private dwellings. relevant State agencies to investigate or advocate for new opportunities, such as: Communities Plus is based on an asset management framework that leverages the • planning approaches to support value of the existing portfolio to accelerate the community housing sector supply. to better leverage housing affordability supply outcomes Communities Plus will redevelop existing social housing estates by engaging private • broader financing and taxation sector developers and Community Housing changes, such as changes to asset Providers to design, fund and build classes for superannuation funds affordable, social and private housing. As • amendments to existing tenancy each development is completed, new social legislation to allow longer-term rental housing properties are handed back to leases to improve security of tenure the Department of Family and Community • more cost effective and innovative Services as payment for the land, making the building approaches, including pre- program entirely self-funded. fabricated and modular housing, Community Housing Providers will manage collective housing, maximum car parking the social housing properties and own and rates and more compact housing manage the affordable housing component, forms of suitable design quality. further developing this emerging sector of our economy. Development will be designed 4.4.5 Support social housing in the to meet tenant needs. North District Currently, many social housing sites are The North District has the lowest proportion subject to zoning allocations based on of social housing in Greater Sydney. In 2011, historical land use, rather than reflecting there were 5,850 households in social housing, the density uplift and floor space ratios of representing 2% of the District’s households. surrounding developments. The Commission There are clusters of social housing at Marsfield, and the Department of Planning and Macquarie Park (Ivanhoe) and Narraweena. Environment are working with Family and There is considerable demand for social Community Services, councils, Transport for housing and this is expected to increase. NSW and other State agencies to maximise Furthermore, in previous years there has outcomes for the Communities Plus projects been a net loss of supply. To reverse this trend and thereby the residents of Greater Sydney. the Department of Family and Community Services commenced Communities Plus. This program is an innovative, self-funded and accelerated development program for existing social housing estates in need of renewal. It is designed to create integrated communities containing affordable housing, replacement and new social housing, as well as private homes. This mix and diversity of housing will enhance social inclusion and outcomes for existing communities. NORTH DISTRICT 102

The North District will continue to require community of 2,500 homes including more social housing, and much of this provision will social housing mixed with affordable and come through Communities Plus. One of the private housing. four Communities Plus initiatives underway This draft District Plan recognises and supports in Greater Sydney is at the 8.2 hectare the Communities Plus ambition to provide a Ivanhoe Estate at Macquarie Park. It currently mix of housing on existing sites to create well- accommodates 259 social housing dwellings designed, socially cohesive communities. that will be transformed into an integrated

The Ivanhoe Estate was rezoned as part of the Macquarie University Station (Herring Road) Priority Precinct. The Precinct optimises the use of existing and planned infrastructure and is well located for rail and bus services. It also has easy access to a major shopping centre, includes a top-ten university campus and is close to a growing local jobs market. World-class urban design, community-based place making and quality facilities will support a vibrant, cohesive and sustainable community of 556 new social housing dwellings and at least 128 affordable housing dwellings together with 1,900 private dwellings.

Source: Land and Housing Corporation 2016 NORTH DISTRICT 103

This approach to coordinated infrastructure Liveability Priority 4: Increase planning could involve: social housing provision • working with the private sector to advance Relevant planning authorities and the designs for infrastructure to achieve greater Department of Family and Community certainty of delivery costs and constraints Services (and the Land and Housing • reviewing development forecasts annually Corporation) should collaborate to optimise to create more accurate information about housing and community diversity outcomes timing and location of development on sites of social housing concentration. • staging development to get the Subject to appropriate consultation, most efficient use of existing feasibility considerations and environmental infrastructure capacity assessment, relevant planning authorities • staging infrastructure delivery using should translate optimal outcomes for interim solutions including packaged social housing sites into land use controls. wastewater treatment systems and temporary intersection improvements Planning proposals should consider this priority as appropriate. • involving the community in decision- making about infrastructure investment to ensure that it meets local needs. 4.4.6 Facilitate integrated This approach will help inform the update infrastructure planning and review of funding arrangements for State Action 3.1.1 of A Plan for Growing Sydney infrastructure through Special Infrastructure requires support for urban renewal by directing Contributions, as well as inform the local infrastructure to centres where there Commission’s Annual Infrastructure Priority List. is growth. A major challenge in creating capacity for additional housing, particularly Action L9: Coordinate infrastructure in greenfield and major urban renewal areas, planning and delivery for growing is the coordination of infrastructure and communities land use planning so that infrastructure is We will work with the Department of delivered in the right place at the right time, Planning and Environment to better in line with actual growth. This requires a coordinate land use and infrastructure detailed understanding of forecast growth and strategies at a State, district and local infrastructure investment programs across a level to deliver infrastructure to growing range providers and locations. communities as needed. A more targeted and coordinated approach to planning and delivering regional, district and local infrastructure would achieve this while also expediting investment and development, and potentially boosting the delivery of new housing. NORTH DISTRICT 104

4.5 Coordinate and monitor Action L10: Provide data and projections housing outcomes and on population and dwellings for local demographic trends government areas across Greater Sydney The Department of Planning and Through the housing continuum approach, we Environment will: will draw together all the actions and programs across State and local government as well as the • regularly prepare updates to 20-year not-for-profit and private sectors to improve our population and dwelling projections understanding of where new homes are needed for NSW by local government area and the type of dwellings required. This, in • prepare a housing needs assessment turn, determines planning needs for education, that will assist the preparation transport, utilities and other infrastructure. of local housing strategies The construction of new homes is a major • continue to release 20-year projections economic activity and requires a supply of of population growth, including: skilled workers, access to capital and availability -- projections for age profiles (including of materials. To support the construction of student population age cohorts) new homes all stakeholders need up to date -- households types information on housing supply to coordinate supply capacity, infrastructure and delivery. -- implied dwellings The Department of Planning and Environment • publish annual 10-year housing publishes annual housing completions, which supply forecasts that: will be improved by the inclusion of more -- include forecast supply by local detailed data describing all types of housing. government area Supply forecasts and completions data needs -- enhance the existing forecasts to include to consider all housing types so that the details of housing types mismatch of supply and demand can be closely -- include housing completions across monitored and used to inform activities across Greater Sydney, including those in new the sector. growth areas, to allow comparison of The Department of Planning and Environment projections and completions. also prepares demographic projections and The draft policy supports productivity, provides advice on demographic trends. environmental management and liveability by Population projections that accurately describe fostering quality processes and outcomes in the projected changes in population characteristics delivery of housing, employment, infrastructure, like age and household type also inform the open space and public areas. planning for education, emergency services, utilities and transport. NORTH DISTRICT 105

Accordingly, this draft District Plan seeks to 4.6 Create great places deliver several specific design-led planning in the North District outcomes, including: Improving liveability means putting people • considerations for planning strategic at the heart of planning for great places. This and district centres (Section 3.4) means recognising, respecting and building • design guidelines for medium on the valued characteristics of individual density housing (Section 4.3) neighbourhoods while maximising the improvements that come with growth design guidelines for safe and healthy • and change. built environments (Section 4.6) Enhancing the great places in the North urban agriculture, community • District requires protecting and, where possible, and roof gardens for productive enhancing these highly valued liveability food systems (Section 4.6) characteristics, and managing growth to create • integration of arts and cultural healthy, well-designed, safe and inclusive places strategies, investment and actions into that encourage economic and social activity, urban development (Section 4.7). vibrancy and community spirit.

• support for enhanced sharing of community This draft District Plan looks at how we can work resources and spaces (Section 4.7) across government to provide the kind of places and facilities that help to build a more cohesive • Aboriginal, European and natural community. heritage considerations (Section 4.7). These areas identified above emphasise the 4.6.1 Provide design-led planning broad range of outcomes that need to be balanced when planning for an area. Design- Good quality integrated urban land use and led planning and the design principles inform transport are key elements of a people-centred, the process for considering how to balance sustainable and liveable environment. Design- competing objectives while delivering on the led planning involves working with communities core needs of the community such as sufficient to identify the key strengths of a place − what housing, affordable housing, economic activity makes it special − and ways to enhance this in - thus jobs. This is particularly important in the the future. Clear, shared goals can then be used context of the three guiding principles that to shape future initiatives, decision-making, underpin the planning for how Greater Sydney development proposals and funding. grows as outlined in A Plan for Growing Sydney.

'Culture and climate differ all over the world, but people are the same. They’ll gather in public if you give them a good place to do it.' Jan Gehl, Danish architect and urban design consultant NORTH DISTRICT 106

Draft Policy on Urban Design and Architecture – Better Placed: Seven Principles Principle 1: Contextual, local and of its place. The Principle 4: Enjoyable, safe and comfortable. urban environment is where most of us live, work How people experience cities has a daily impact and recreate. on people’s lives, and investment in development and infrastructure can have an impact for decades Places should be designed to be integral with and generations. local people and cultures and connected to their landscape and setting. In this way, a place Urban design should be people focused, providing will be ‘of its location’ - distinctive, resonant and environments that are user-friendly, enjoyable, engaging. accessible and dignified. Principle 5: Functional, responsive and fit for Principle 2: Sustainable, efficient and durable. purpose. As the setting for our daily lives, the Cities, towns and the infrastructure they require urban environment must work well for a wide have both a positive and negative impact on range of purposes. environmental quality and climate change. Urban design can influence the functionality and An urban area should be designed to be workability of urban areas permanently, and so accessible and compact; to minimise design quality at the outset is essential. consumption of energy, water and natural resources; and to avoid detrimental impacts on Principle 6: Value-creating and cost effective. natural systems. It should be designed to respond Substantial investment goes into the urban and adapt to changes over time. environment and infrastructure from a range of sources. Principle 3: Equitable, inclusive and diverse. The city represents the coming together of the Well-designed urban places have the potential full spectrum of society in a mutually beneficial to be highly cost effective over the long term, arrangement. creating ongoing and increasing value for all. Cities and towns must accommodate and provide Principle 7: Distinctive, visually interesting access to opportunities for all. Urban design and appealing. For most people the urban should provide equitable access to housing, environment is where we live our daily lives. employment, public transport, public space and The design of the city or precinct is fundamental social opportunities. to how it looks, feels and works for people. Poor design has a lasting, negative impact, while good design provides ongoing benefits for all. NORTH DISTRICT 107

The NSW Government’s draft architecture and Action L11: Provide design-led planning urban design policy, Better Placed (October to support high quality urban design 2016), seeks to deliver design excellence To provide high quality urban design, and a safe, equitable and sustainable built we will support the NSW Government environment. It outlines the importance of Architect in the development and successful design for cities and towns implementation of design-led noting that: planning approaches, specifically for • Cities and centres are linked through Collaboration Areas and planning for centres economic factors: they support and precincts. industry and commerce, employment and services. Accommodating an 4.6.2 Plan for safe and healthy places agglomeration of people and activity is key to a city or centre’s productivity. As documented by the Heart Foundation, healthy built environments can help prevent • Collectively, urban development is responsible for significant physical and mental health problems. This is achieved through the provision of functional environmental and greenhouse impacts, energy use and displacement well connected streets and public spaces in of ecological and agricultural land. neighbourhoods that fulfil the services and social needs of residents. Building on Action Cities and towns welcome and house • 3.3.1 of A Plan for Growing Sydney guidelines for people and . The coming communities the planning, design and development of a safe together of people in urban places and healthy built environment can potentially plays an essential social function in be more effective if they are incorporated accommodating relationships. into broader considerations outlined in the The draft policy advocates design-led planning Liveability Framework and the Draft Policy on and notes that ‘the role of urban design and Urban Design and Architecture. architecture is essential to all three of these The North District is home to many diverse factors and is a key determinant of successful cultures, each with differing social norms. urban places’. Respect and collaboration are essential for community cohesion. Well-designed public spaces can facilitate opportunities for social interaction. Design-led planning of the public realm – footpaths, squares, open spaces, parks and nature strips – should result in places and streets that are safe and functional that can support people to walk or cycle rather than drive. Walkable, well-lit places and paths can provide a sense of safety for women, young children and older people, all of whom are often the first to sense that a neighbourhood is not safe – especially after dark. Functional streets must also provide easy connections to day to day needs and transport options. Co-located schools, transport and services in mixed use areas capable of growth will improve the sustainability of these centres and their communities and enhance accessibility with the potential to reduce congestion. NORTH DISTRICT 108

Healthy built environments can also facilitate 4.6.3 Enhance walking and cycling access to fresh seasonal food. Design- connections led planning for productive roof gardens, We see better walking and cycling connections community gardens and other forms of urban and end of trip facilities, such as lockers and agriculture can facilitate better health outcomes showers at a workplace, as way to increase and greater community cohesion. activity levels and improve health and These characteristics of healthy safe wellbeing. This requires thoughtful planning environments can encourage more active to enable well designed footpaths and cycling lifestyles helping to reduce obesity and the rate facilities that link to services and transport of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and cardio options. vascular disease. This is especially important for Cars are the dominant mode for all trips to, from the long-term health of North residents. and within the North District. Even for short trips Action L12: Develop guidelines for safe under five kilometres just 30% of trips are taken and healthy built environments on foot. Car travel is dominant for all distances travelled, particularly for trips of 5-10 kilometres, The Commission will work with the with 83% of all trips being vehicle driver or Department of Planning and passenger. Environment to develop design-led planning guidelines for developing a safe and Co-location of complementary land uses such healthy built environment. as shops, schools, child care, community and recreation facilities helps people to interact Liveability Priority 5: and improves the viability of public transport, Facilitate the delivery of safe and walking and cycling, while interconnected healthy places networks of footpaths and bicycle paths can connect people to these places while Relevant planning authorities should: also increasing activity levels and reducing • facilitate the development of healthy congestion. and safe built environments Transport for NSW is developing a Walkability • consider the inclusion of planning Tool that will assess every location throughout mechanisms such as floor space Greater Sydney and help identify those bonuses to incentivise the provision of: areas that require investment in the walking environment. Walkability is based whether -- walkable neighbourhoods with good a location has footpaths and crossings, how walking and cycling connections many vehicles are on the road and the speed particularly to schools they’re travelling, the distance and directness of -- social infrastructure such as public walking routes, and how easy it is to connect to libraries or child care transport services and destinations. -- urban agriculture, community and Transport for NSW’s Sydney’s Walking Future roof gardens for productive food and Sydney’s Cycling Future reflect the NSW systems. Government’s commitment to working with How these matters have been taken into councils to make walking and cycling more account need to be demonstrated in any convenient, safer and enjoyable. Funded relevant planning proposal. through the Walking Communities program, improvements to the walking network will help to reduce the amount of time people spend at intersections, enhance facilities for pedestrians, and encourage more people to travel on foot. NORTH DISTRICT 109

Transport for NSW is also establishing Sydney’s 4.7 Foster cohesive communities Principal Bicycle Network. This will be made up in the North District of high quality, high priority routes that facilitate direct, barrier-free travel between centres. For residents of the North District, the most Routes will be separated from motor vehicles important factors in making the area a great and pedestrians and local bicycle routes will place to live are safety, public transport and connect in to form a finer grain cycling network. cost of living. Residents also value a positive community feel and spirit – they believe this The Principal Bicycle Network routes gives people in the area a shared appreciation connecting the North District are: of the natural environment and local facilities. • Palm Beach to North Sydney: A number also believe the relaxed nature of connecting to Mona Vale, Dee Why, their area and outdoor spaces contributes to a Brookvale and Neutral Bay village feel where people are friendly and get along. • Hornsby to North Sydney: connecting to Chatswood and St Leonards We heard that residents value local village hubs, • Chatswood to Macquarie Park farmers’ markets and events, and many people want more local social and cultural activities. • Chatswood to Dee Why: connecting to Many people describe a sense of belonging the Northern Beaches Hospital Precinct where people are accepted regardless of their Lane Cove to Pyrmont • race, culture, financial status or age. They talked • Macquarie Park to Parramatta of welcoming newcomers, respect, harmony, • North Sydney to the Sydney CBD. trust and knowing your neighbour. Other walking and cycling projects in the Through design-led planning we will work with North District will continue to be delivered by communities to identify the key strengths of both Roads and Maritime Services and local unique places within the District, and ways to councils, and will be funded under the NSW enhance these in the future. We can enhance Government’s walking and cycling programs. social cohesion and achieve this by protecting Transport for NSW and Roads and Maritime the heritage and local identity of the many Services will continue to provide guidance to unique neighbourhoods across the District. councils when making land use decisions that By collaborating across the creative arts, affect accessibility in and around centres. business and communities we can foster cultural development and expression across Liveability Priority 6: the District. By protecting and enhancing Facilitate enhanced walking and existing access to natural landscapes, parks, cycling connections sportsgrounds and recreation facilities we can Relevant planning authorities should encourage more active lifestyles. We will also facilitate enhanced walking and cycling enhance liveability outcomes by greater sharing outcomes by giving due consideration of sports and community facilities across to the delivery of district and regional the District. connections and walkable neighbourhoods. Each of these elements of cohesive How these matters have been taken into communities is discussed in more detail in the account need to be demonstrated in any following sections. relevant planning proposal. NORTH DISTRICT 110

4.7.1 Conserve and enhance Our heritage offers a point of difference that environmental heritage including fosters connected communities and local Aboriginal, European and natural identity. Opportunities to adaptively re-use character and heritage buildings through the As we manage growth across the District development process should be used to protect development must enhance and respect our and enhance places, spaces and qualities heritage, protecting, conserving, restoring, and valued by the local community. strengthening it. Design-based planning is a tool that can assist in identifying and protecting Action L13: Conserve and enhance the elements of a place that are highly valued environmental heritage including by a community. Aboriginal, European and natural The North District’s rich Aboriginal, cultural To support high quality urban design and natural heritage reinforces our sense of and healthy places, the Office of place and identity. This includes items listed Environment and Heritage, on the State Heritage Register such as the Department of Planning and Environment, and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Aboriginal Place listings, Aboriginal Affairs will collaborate to map rock art sites and middens and conservation Aboriginal-owned lands, places of significance, areas comprised of Victorian and Federation local community organisations and public art architecture. and place making projects and events celebrating Aboriginal history. The District has a long history of Aboriginal occupation and cultural heritage which is an Relevant planning authorities need to identify, important component of a shared cultural assess, manage and protect the heritage which fabric. We must appropriately recognise, protect underpins the community’s pride of place. and manage these assets in collaboration with The Commission will work with the Office of relevant custodians and State agencies as the Environment and Heritage and councils to District grows, and work with the Aboriginal identify and share best practice in restoration, community to identify and map significant alterations, additions and adaptation of heritage stories and cultural places in the District. items. Places and items of heritage significant are protected by the Heritage Act 1977, the National Liveability Priority 7: Parks & Wildlife Act 1974 and listed in local Conserve heritage and unique environmental plans for conservation. This local characteristics protection can be further enhanced by the Relevant planning authorities should: implementation of the best practice guidelines • require the adaptive re-use of historic contained in the ICOMOS Burra Charter and the and heritage listed buildings and NSW Heritage Manual. structures in a way that enhances Also important to the District’s natural and and respects heritage values cultural heritage values is its biodiversity and • protect Aboriginal, cultural and natural history, reflected through its landscape and heritage and places, spaces and rural areas. Our planning should enhance and qualities valued by the local community. protect diverse landscapes including Sydney Harbour National Park, West Head, the Northern How these matters have been taken into Beaches, water catchment areas and ridgelines. account need to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal. This draft District Plan recognises that development must be more than sympathetic to the District’s heritage – it must enhance it. Heritage offers a point of difference that fosters connected communities and local vitality and planning should look at opportunities to adapt character and heritage buildings to new uses in a way that interprets heritage and history to maintain pride of place through the

NORTH DISTRICT development process. 111

4.7.2 Foster the creative arts During the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney and culture and the finalisation of the North District Plan, we will further explore, in consultation with The North District’s cultural, sport and stakeholders, how the final District Plan can entertainment facilities include The Ensemble provide direction on the enhancement of arts, Theatre, Manly Art Gallery and Museum, Ku- culture and night time activities for the North ring-gai Art Centre, Wallarobba Arts and Cultural District. This will assist us to work towards better Centre, Mosman Art Gallery and Community access to the art for all communities across Centre, Cremorne Orpheum, Roseville Cinema, Greater Sydney and will consider: Scotland Island Community Centre, Berowra Community Centre – performing arts, Avalon • the provision of community Annex and Willandra Art Gallery in Ryde. infrastructure (library/hubs) in planning for improved places The events and activities that operate through these and many other local arts and cultural • delivering a diverse range of night- facilities help the North District’s residents time activities in appropriate places to connect, celebrate and identify with one • cultural diversity as a tourism attraction another. • cultural events The public domain is an important place for • cultural and environmental assets cultural exchange through public art, cultural including Sydney Harbour National Park. programs and festivals. Many organised locally and are enhanced by collaboration and Liveability Priority 8: Support the partnerships across the District. Neighbourhood creative arts and culture street fairs, festivals, fetes, indoor and outdoor exhibitions, workshops and community markets Relevant planning authorities should: provide important opportunities for people of all ages and walks of life to experience and • integrate arts and cultural outcomes participate in arts and culture. Examples include into urban development through Manly Jazz Festival, Northern Beaches Music planning proposals for urban renewal Festival, Narrabeen Lakes Festival and Ryde areas and priority precincts that Rivers Festival. The work of local volunteers nurture a culture of art in everyday and support organisations across the District is local spaces and enhance access further evidence of a strong community spirit. to the arts in all communities • give due consideration to the Arts and cultural policy, investment and inclusion of planning mechanisms actions should be well integrated into urban that would incentivise the development. This can be achieved through establishment and resourcing of planning proposals for urban renewal areas and creative hubs and incubators and priority precincts that enhance access to the accessible artist-run spaces. arts in all communities and nurture a culture of art in everyday local spaces. How these matters have been taken into account need to be demonstrated in any This District Plan builds upon Action 3.4.1 relevant planning proposal. of A Plan for Growing Sydney to develop Greater Sydney as an international arts and cultural destination and to integrate arts and cultural policies and investment with broader development and urban renewal efforts across the city. NORTH DISTRICT 112

4.7.3 Create opportunities for more 4.7.4 Support planning for recreation and community facilities shared spaces Making more productive and sustainable use Adequate provision of the whole range of of existing resources is good urban governance. recreation and community facilities contributes Given the growing and changing population to a liveable city. These include local and of the North District to 2036, a more clearly regional recreation areas, parks and natural articulated governance system for the shared landscapes as well as community facilities such use of community resources could be a game as libraries, event spaces, community centres changer for Greater Sydney. and community gardens. By working with State agencies and local These facilities, usually delivered by local government we can identify assets that are government, are important to people at all available for complementary community stages of life and should be accessible and use and investment. One example of this is inclusive so that people of all abilities can the opportunity for government and non- enjoy them. government schools to collaborate with local The Heart Foundation has identified that people government to access school facilities and open who are not physically active are almost twice space. Shared use of resources could extend to: as likely to die from coronary heart diseases as • schools’ open space resources those who are. As such, increasing the level of physical activity in the community is likely to • community facilities such as meeting have a major impact on public health. rooms, gymnasiums or art facilities • private open space resources such as Our planning should focus on allowing many swimming pools and golf courses activities to occur in the District’s recreation spaces. We also need to look at turning over • services (waste, access, recycled water) for underutilised public spaces to ensure we meet multiple buildings within a street frontage. the demand for contemporary green spaces. We need to focus on multiuse recreation areas Shared spaces: Pilot project for a range of different user groups. The Hills Shire and NSW Department of Future planning and decision-making should Education are collaborating on a pilot project continue to enhance access to recreation and that seeks to allow shared use of government community facilities and accommodate new school facilities with the broader community. and shared use of facilities as required by the While the approach taken in The Hills Shire existing and future local communities. will not fit all local communities, it is a major Action L14: Develop a North District sport step forward in the process of providing and recreation participation strategy and better utilisation of public assets. sport and recreation facility plan Across Greater Sydney this approach might The Office of Sport will coordinate and provide opportunities to better integrate support collaboration between schools with local communities, particularly councils to develop a Sport and in dense urban environments where there Recreation Participation Strategy and a Sport are competing land use constraints and and Recreation Facility Plan for North District. growing demands for access to open space and community facilities. NORTH DISTRICT 113

Action L15: Support planning 4.8 Respond to people’s need for shared spaces for services To support sharing In accordance with Action 3.1.1 of A Plan for of spaces we will: Growing Sydney, making the District a great place to live requires the provision of the • collaborate with State agencies, infrastructure and services that people need, non-profit organisations, private from birth to the end of life. The full range of providers and communities to identify service needs must be realised including child opportunities for the shared use of care, schools, hospitals, health centres and community and school facilities aged care, as well cemeteries and crematoria to support Greater Sydney’s liveability. The • support the NSW Department of delivery of these services is the responsibility Education’s preparation of a joint venture of many agencies and organisations that need template that will include the shared use to consider existing and future demand. This of school playgrounds and other spaces section explores our approach to supporting the where requested, provide strategic • planning delivery of these services. planning advice prior to sale regarding alternative uses of surplus government- owned land including schools. 4.8.1 Education infrastructure In 2016, government schools in the North Liveability Priority 9: District accommodate more than 83,000 Share resources and spaces students representing 61% of the student population. In turn, just under 55,000 students Relevant planning authorities should attend non-government schools. By 2036 facilitate the delivery of shared local significant growth in the primary and secondary facilities such as community hubs, school aged population is expected to result cultural facilities and public libraries as in an increase in school enrolments of around multifunctional shared spaces. 29,000 or 21% based on the current enrolments in government and non-government schools. How these matters have been taken into account to be demonstrated in any relevant As the population grows, the design and planning proposal. configuration of schools may need to change as land becomes scarcer and schools and other social infrastructure may need to be co-located with other services. NORTH DISTRICT 114

Table 4-4: Actual (2016) and projected (2026 and 2036) NSW public school students for North District

School Level 2016 2026 2036 2016-2036 Change

Government Primary 54,250 60,100 63,800 9,550 18%

Government Secondary 29,000 33,600 36,600 7,600 26%

Government subtotal 83,250 93,700 100,350 17,100 21%

Non-government Primary 22,950 25,500 27,100 4,150 18%

Non-government Secondary 31,250 35,950 39,250 8,000 26%

Non-government Subtotal 54,250 61,450 66,300 12,050 22%

Total 137,500 155,150 166,650 29,150 21%

Source: NSW Department of Education, 2016

NSW Department of Education disclaim liability to the reliance of information in the Child, Adolescent, and Student Projections 2016. Information is correct only at the time of release and reflect the assessed observed current and retrospective trend. There is no certainty that these trends will be realised at any reported time point or geography. These projections are not targets and are made independently from Departmental policy direction.

Within the District, existing secondary schools Recent major investment in government are evenly distributed from east to west as schools include: illustrated in Figure 4-12 and Figure 4-13. Within • funding for Artarmon Public School, the District, schools are concentrated in more Curl Curl North Public School, Harbord densely populated areas in the south and east. Public School, Manly Vale Public School A total of 149 government schools have high and Willoughby Public School utilisation rates. More specifically, available primary school places are limited across the • a new primary school at Smalls Road in Ryde District and a number use demountable • commitment to a new school at classrooms. Secondary school utilisation rates the UTS Lindfield site, and are more variable, with current student capacity • upgrades to high schools in Chatswood, at Hunters Hill, Manly and Pittwater Cherrybrook, Cammeraygal and Willoughby. secondary schools. NORTH DISTRICT 115

Table 4-5: Count of schools by school type and sector for North District, (2016)

School Type NSW Public Schools Catholic Independent

Primary 102 38 25

Secondary 34 15 6

Combined (K-12) 4 42

School for Specific Purposes 11 2 7

Environmental 2 Education Centre

Total 149 59 80

Source: NSW Department of Education, 2016, Catholic Education Commission, 2016 and Association of Independent Schools of NSW, 2016

4.8.2 Plan to meet the demand for The Department of Education currently school facilities optimises use of its infrastructure in a number of ways including: To ensure school planning meets demand requires an understanding of where the school- • the realignment of school age population is likely to increase, stabilise or catchment boundaries decline and, therefore, when new classrooms or • prioritising ‘in catchment area’ students schools will be needed, or where capacity will • increasing the size, amenity and become available. Integrated school investment functionality of existing schools solutions can then be developed based on the unique characteristics of the District’s • using relocatable classrooms to communities. manage fluctuations in enrolments. If no additional classrooms were to be provided While detailed demand for government school until 2036 there will be significant shortfalls facilities and appropriate responses will be based on projected changes in the primary and identified by the Department of Education, secondary school aged population. There is our planning must recognise that schools are significant increasing demand in North Sydney, critical infrastructure in growing communities. St Leonards, Ingleside, Ryde, Hornsby, Manly Furthermore, our planning should support and surrounds. innovative approaches to the design and location of new and expanded school facilities. Existing school infrastructure will accommodate the majority of new enrolments, because most growth in the District will occur in existing areas. This will be achieved through expansion and innovative approaches to the use of land, facilities and floor space. NORTH DISTRICT 116

• support the creation of a joint forum Liveability Priority 10: for government and non-government Support innovative school school sectors to work collaboratively to planning and delivery plan for future growth and change. Relevant planning authorities should give due consideration to: 4.8.3 Plan for the provision of early • innovative land use and development education facilities approaches including: Demand for early education and child care -- using travel management plans, that facilities will also increase in the North District identify travel options, to reduce car given the expected 6,150 new babies and use toddlers that will reside in the District by -- enabling the development and 2036. Planning for these facilities in existing construction of schools as flexible communities will increasingly require innovative spaces, so they can facilitate shared approaches to the use of land and floor space, use and change over time to meet including co-location with compatible land uses varying community need such as primary schools and office buildings. • the inclusion of planning mechanisms In order to meet the increasing demand for that would incentivise the: child care and early education facilities, the -- development of new schools as a Department of Planning and Education is part of good quality and appropriate working jointly with other government and non- mixed use developments government agencies to improve the quality -- the shared use of facilities between and availability of early childhood education schools and the local community and care facilities by streamlining the planning including playing fields and indoor system and aligning it to the National Quality facilities, so they can meet wider Framework for Early Childhood Education Care. community needs. Out of school hours childcare is essential for jobs growth and is consistent with the Department How these matters have been taken into of Education arrangements for joint use. account need to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal. 4.8.4 Support the provision Action L16: Support planning for of youth services school facilities The District’s population is growing and its To better support planning and characteristics are also changing. The North decision making across education, District is also multicultural and while older providers and relevant planning people will make up a greater proportion of authorities the Department of Planning and residents in the future many other sectors of the Environment will: community also require socially, culturally and age appropriate service provision. • continue to release 20-year projections of the student population in the District The North District has considerable demand for targeted youth services and facilities. Age • annually release housing forecasts appropriate cultural, social and employment showing where and when school facilities are important to support our youth catchments will be affected by growth and address issues such as mental health, • monitor housing completions in homelessness, pre-employment training and new growth areas to confirm where job readiness in a socially appropriate manner. student populations are growing • work with NSW Property and the Department of Education to identify the strategic potential of key government sites 117

Figure 4-12: Secondary schools in the North District (2016)

Strategic Centre Urban Area Railway Station

District Centre Metropolitan Rural Area Motorway

District Boundary Waterways Highway

Government Secondary Schools National and State Parks

Non-Government Secondary Schools Railway

Source: NSW Department of Education, 2016, Catholic Education Commission, 2016 NORTH DISTRICT 118

4.8.5 Support the Liveability Priority 11: Aboriginal community Provide socially and culturally Engagement with the Aboriginal community, appropriate infrastructure and built on trust and integrity, should be founded services on a framework of self-determination and Relevant planning authorities should: Aboriginal control, particularly in terms of the management of assets and cultural heritage, • collaborate with Federal and State and the development of policies and strategies agencies and service providers for economic and social opportunities. to integrate local and District social infrastructure for Aboriginal Equity of access to appropriate whole-of-life residents including preschools, social infrastructure can improve the Aboriginal child care and aged care services community’s health, wellbeing and economic include appropriate planning participation. In particular, we see targeted • mechanisms to incentivise the provision health and education services and child of these services required by local care and aged care services as priorities, but communities where appropriate. would collaborate with the diverse Aboriginal communities of the North District to determine How these matters have been taken into appropriate priorities account need to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal. Federal and State agencies are working with Aboriginal communities, local government and service providers to deliver high quality 4.8.6 Support planning for health educational and health outcomes. We support networks the provision of appropriate local and district social infrastructure as identified by these The health network encompasses the whole providers. spectrum of health facilities and services for every segment of the community. The network Action L17: Support the provision of includes hospitals and emergency services as culturally appropriate services well as associated surgeries, clinics, pathology The Commission and Department of and allied health providers. Co-location of Aboriginal Affairs will establish an business services, educational institutions and ongoing engagement forum with industry provides a competitive advantage. Greater Sydney’s Aboriginal community in order A strong health network is also a generator of to better inform our planning. This will include local jobs. representatives from Aboriginal Land Councils, Planning controls for health precincts and Aboriginal youth and students, and Aboriginal centres that allow complementary and ancillary service providers. Together, we will prepare and services such as short-term accommodation, agree on an engagement strategy and focus on residential aged care, child care, specialist or deliverable actions that align with Aboriginal allied health infrastructure will support better community aspirations in each District. Through accessibility to services. this approach information can be provided to relevant planning authorities to support planning outcomes for the Aboriginal community. NORTH DISTRICT 119

Figure 4-13: Primary schools in the North District (2016)

Strategic Centre Urban Area Railway Station

District Centre Metropolitan Rural Area Motorway

District Boundary Waterways Highway

Government Primary Schools National and State Parks

Non-Government Primary Schools Railway

Source: NSW Department of Education, 2016, Catholic Education Commission, 2016 NORTH DISTRICT 120

These services will co-locate to varying degrees Liveability Priority 12: in smaller centres and to a greater extent in Support planning for health the established health care precincts where infrastructure the employment opportunities and can be leveraged to improve transport networks Relevant planning authorities should give and enhance connectivity. For these reasons, due consideration to the need to support planning controls should support the creation of the co-location of ancillary uses that productive local health networks and consider complement health precincts, including: the operational needs of providers. • residential aged care facilities In the North District, the Northern Beaches • housing for health workers Hospital, a major new facility, is under • visitor and short-term accommodation construction and will include a large integrated health and medical research activities emergency department and state-of-the-art • intensive care and critical care units. Health • child care precincts can be a hub of economic activity, • non-critical patient care employment and investment, support research • commercial uses that are and development capability and provide complementary to and service local jobs. the health precinct Consideration should also be given to the 4.8.7 Plan for health facilities and protection of health precincts and super services precincts from residential encroachment The North District is served by the Royal North into key employment areas. Shore Hospital at St Leonards, with additional How these matters have been taken into major hospitals at Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, Manly account need to be demonstrated in any and Mona Vale and a recently upgraded Ryde relevant planning proposal. Hospital. Private hospitals include Macquarie University, Delmar, Sydney Adventist, Mater Hospital and others. 4.8.8 Plan for emergency services Current planning for major new and improved NSW State Emergency Services, NSW Police, health infrastructure includes: NSW Ambulance, Fire & Rescue NSW and NSW Rural Fire Service all work to protect the safety • Northern Beaches Hospital of our community. Not only do they prepare for, • Mona Vale Hospital and and provide assistance in, times of emergency community health services they also build community resilience and • Royal North Shore Hospital reduce community concerns about personal community health services safety and property security. • Royal North Shore Hospital These highly mobile services need to be able clinical services building to render assistance quickly and efficiently. • Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital redevelopment The location of these services with a high • health programs such as GP clinics, level of transport connectivity is an essential medical centres and other specialist health requirement for emergency services, and needs services as administered by the Australian to be considered in regional and local planning. Government’s Primary Health Networks. As noted earlier, the expected increase in the over 65 and over 85 age groups will lead to increased and intensified demand for health, aged and palliative care services. NORTH DISTRICT 121

Early and ongoing collaboration with relevant Action L19: Support planning for planning authorities and communities is cemeteries and crematoria essential to delivering these services. The To support relevant planning implementation of Crime Prevention Through authorities in planning for the full Environmental Design principles through spectrum of their resident’s lives, design-led planning is also required. Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW will provide Improved reporting on housing completions guidance on the appropriate location and and forecast supply by the Department of development consent conditions for new Planning and Environment will also support cemeteries and appropriate land use controls agencies to deliver services appropriately across and zoning. Once made available this the District, including improved risk profiling information will shared on our website. and an understanding of how emergency service catchments and demand will be Liveability Priority 14: affected by demographic change. Support planning for cemeteries and crematoria Action L18: Support planning for Relevant planning authorities should give emergency services consideration to the need and locational The Department of Planning and requirements of cemeteries and crematoria. Environment will provide demographic data and projections, How these matters have been taken into as detailed in Action L10, to inform emergency account need to be demonstrated in any service planning. relevant planning proposal.

Liveability Priority 13: Support planning for emergency services Relevant planning authorities will need to consider emergency services operational and locational requirements. How these matters have been taken into account need to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal.

4.8.9 Plan for cemeteries and crematoria Cemeteries and crematoria are important infrastructure, as all cities require land for burial or cremation and associated facilities such as chapels, reception centres and car parking. Contemporary facilities often incorporate gardens, bushland settings and open space areas reflecting society’s changing preferences. NORTH DISTRICT 122 NORTH DISTRICT 5 A Sustainable City 123

'The integration of environment and development concerns and greater attention to them will lead to the fulfilment of basic needs, improved living standards for all, better protected and managed ecosystems and a safer, more prosperous future'. Agenda 21, 1992

A sustainable city protects and enhances its planning activities and planning proposals as natural environment, integrating its bushland, appropriate. open spaces, waterways and vegetation into The full list of sustainability priorities covered in the planning for how it will grow and build its this section are outlined below. resilience and efficiency. This draft District Plan outlines the priorities and actions required to • enhancing the North District in its landscape safeguard the North District’s environment. • protecting the District’s waterways The Plan draws on Our vision – Towards Our • maintain and improve water Greater Sydney 2056, which sets out the quality and waterway health strategic basis for Greater Sydney as an efficient • protect and conserve the and resilient city. It also draws on the ambitions values of Sydney Harbour of A Plan for Growing Sydney’s Goal 3 for a • enhance access to Sydney Harbour great place to live with communities that are foreshore and waterways strong, healthy and well connected and Goal 4 for a sustainable and resilient city that protects • managing coastal landscapes the natural environment and has a balanced • protecting and enhancing biodiversity approach to the use of land and resources. • avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity This draft District Plan recognises that a • delivering Sydney’s Green Grid metropolitan-wide approach to sustainability is • align strategic planning to the needed to protect and enhance the environment. vision for the Green Grid This means thinking of sustainability in terms of • protect, enhance and extend what is required for all of Greater Sydney and how the urban canopy best to then apply this thinking to protect and improve protection of ridgelines enhance the North District’s environment. • and scenic areas Collaboration will be needed to protect the • managing the Metropolitan Rural Area elements people value about the area, adapt discourage urban development in and respond to a changing climate, build • the Metropolitan Rural Area resilience to future shocks and create more efficient natural systems as the District grows. • consider environmental, social and It also proposes to make Greater Sydney a net economic values when planning zero carbon emissions city by 2050. in the Metropolitan Rural Area provide for rural residential development This chapter outlines the sustainability priorities • while protecting the values of and actions for the North District. the Metropolitan Rural Area The priorities are presented in two ways. Firstly, • creating an efficient North District each heading outlines a priority area, and we support opportunities for District provide context and detail to expand on the • waste management outcomes sought. Some headings cover factual issues only; these are not included in the list • planning for a resilient North District below. • mitigate the urban heat island effect Secondly, within the broad priority areas there • integrate land use and transport planning are, in many cases, more detailed priorities. We to consider emergency evacuation needs identify the specific purpose of these priorities • use buffers to manage the impacts of rural in each case by detailing how they relate to activities on noise, odour and air quality strategic planning and planning proposals. • assist local communities develop a The priorities should be considered in strategic coordinated understanding of natural

hazards and responses that reduce risk. NORTH DISTRICT 124

The Greater Sydney Sustainability Profile 5.1 The North District’s Our Greater Sydney Sustainability Profile, environment available at www.greater.sydney, provides The North District’s natural environment is maps and baseline information on the defined by extensive native bushland, beaches landscape and environmental characteristics and lagoons, the foreshores of Sydney Harbour, of places across Greater Sydney, on flows the Parramatta River, the Lane Cove River, of carbon, energy, water and waste, and on Middle Harbour, Narrabeen Lagoon, Pittwater the resilience of communities across Greater and the Hawkesbury River. Its best known Sydney to natural hazards. places include its beaches including Palm Beach and Manly Beach, Lane Cove’s waterways, It has been compiled to support the foreshores and bushland, the lovely views and information contained in this chapter, and foreshore areas in Hunters Hill, North Sydney the reporting of information on the Greater and Mosman, and the bushland areas of Sydney Dashboard. Ku-ring-gai, Willoughby and Ryde. The majority of the North District is within the Pittwater subregion of the Sydney Basin Bioregion. Some of the bushland areas within the North District are recognised for their environmental value and are protected in national parks and reserves, and Crown reserves dedicated for environmental protection and conservation. National parks and reserves in the North District include:

• Sydney Harbour National Park • Lane Cove National Park • Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park • Berowra Valley National Park • Berowra Valley Regional Park • Garigal National Park • Marramarra National Park • Muogamarra Nature Reserve • Wallumatta Nature Reserve • Dural Nature Reserve. NORTH DISTRICT 125

Endangered and critically endangered The Sydney Basin Bioregion ecological communities include Duffys Forest, Because biodiversity does not recognise Sydney Turpentine-Ironback Forest and Blue state, district or local government planning Gum High Forest as well as many other pockets boundaries, governments across Australia containing threatened plant and animal species. have adopted a bioregional approach to conserving and managing biodiversity in the Some areas of the District have been landscape. recognised for their Aboriginal cultural and heritage significance. Outstanding examples Bioregions are relatively large land areas of Aboriginal cultural heritage include carvings characterised by broad, landscape-scale and axe grinding sites on sandstone, sandstone natural features and environmental rock shelters and middens. processes that influence the functions of entire ecosystems. Each bioregion displays Semi-rural land, bushland and creeks around its own patterns in the landscape, ecosystem Hornsby connect with the beaches, cliffs processes and fauna and flora. Within each and bushland of the Northern Beaches via bioregion, smaller subregions have been the Hawkesbury River, Cowan Creek and defined based on differences in geology, the national parks and reserves along these vegetation and other biophysical attributes waterways. and are the basis for determining the major These areas also contain native vegetation regional ecosystems. that has been subject to clearing, old growth Of the 85 bioregions recognised in Australia, forest and rainforest, threatened ecological 17 are in NSW. The Sydney Basin Bioregion communities and habitats, important wetlands, extends from just north of Batemans Bay coastal lakes, estuaries and areas of geological to Nelson Bay, and almost as far west significance. as Mudgee. It is one of two bioregions Residents of the North District have told us contained wholly within the State. they enjoy the cooling effects of the District’s As well as Greater Sydney itself, the Sydney coastal weather, green and leafy suburbs and Basin Bioregion encompasses Wollongong, their proximity to areas of biodiversity and Nowra, Newcastle, Cessnock and natural ecosystems. People value and enjoy Muswellbrook. the District’s views, particularly in foreshore areas. The importance of the environment to It includes a significant proportion of the the residents of the North District is reflected catchments of the Hawkesbury-Nepean, in recent research, which showed that North Hunter and Shoalhaven river systems, all of District residents rated the environment more the smaller catchments of Lake Macquarie, highly as an issue compared to residents of Lake Illawarra, Hacking, Georges and other districts in Greater Sydney. Parramatta Rivers, and smaller portions of the headwaters of the Clyde and Macquarie rivers. NORTH DISTRICT 126

5.2 Enhancing the North District 5.3 Protecting the District’s in its landscape waterways The North District has a valuable legacy of The North District’s waterways include four protected natural areas and foreshore open aquatic reserves at Barrenjoey Head, Narrabeen space. These areas play a big part in creating Head, Long Reef, Cabbage Tree Bay and North a sense of place, providing diverse recreation Harbour at Manly, which provide protection opportunities, forming part of the tourist for fish, other aquatic animals and marine experience and supporting local biodiversity. vegetation. These areas attract residents, businesses and Some waterways are protected within national visitors but also create challenges, particularly parks while others have been affected by when landscape features, such as Middle urban and agricultural development that has Harbour, create natural barriers to moving changed the water quality and quantity in across and through the District. these networks. Some waterways need to be This draft District Plan outlines our approach to considered for their value to commercial and supporting the North District in its landscape by recreational fishing. Endangered populations addressing four highly interconnected elements: of Posidonia australis seagrass are found in Pittwater and Sydney Harbour. 1. healthy waterways, which includes natural, artificial and manipulated water The NSW Government is reforming the systems of the city and coastlines legislative and regulatory framework for coastal 2. areas of native vegetation, biodiversity management. These reforms will recognise and and ecological communities map four types of coastal areas, allowing State agencies and councils to better target the way 3. Sydney’s Green Grid of parks they manage coastal landscapes. and open space, which includes public areas used for sport The way we plan the Green and Blue Grid is 4. the Metropolitan Rural Area, which also important in this regard, as it can give includes rural land, the transitional land communities better connections between between urban and rural areas, land the land and water and better integrate used for food production and landscapes management of the coast and the land (see with highly valued scenic views. Section 5.6). Sydney Harbour is one of Greater Sydney’s most recognised and valuable assets − it is part of what makes Sydney one of the most attractive and recognisable cities in the world. The Sydney Harbour foreshore provides places for major cultural events and celebrations, is important to the city’s arts and cultural events such as New Year’s Eve and Vivid, and makes an economic contribution through tourism. Sydney Harbour is also a working waterway, with cruise ships and recreational watercraft operations while ferries are an important part of the District’s public transport network. Sydney Harbour also provides opportunities for local recreation around its foreshores. NORTH DISTRICT 127

Figure 5-1: North District catchments and waterway

Strategic Centre Parramatta River Basin Port Jackson Basin 1 in 100 Year Flood

Dee Why Lagoon / Curl District Centre Georges River Basin Waterway Curl Lagoon

District Boundary Lane Cove River Basin Narrabeen Lagoon

Middle Harbour Creek River Flow Direction Pittwater Basin Hawkesbury Nepean Manly Lagoon Coastal Catchment River Basin

Source: Greater Sydney Commission, 2016 NORTH DISTRICT 128

Sydney Harbour has a range of planning controls and governance frameworks in place. The Commission will examine where these could be updated or improved to reflect changing demand for activity in the Harbour and to deliver a better and more coordinated approach to protecting and managing access to the waterway and foreshores. Greater Sydney’s other major waterways would benefit from having clear strategic plans in place to help guide how the waterway is protected, enhanced and enjoyed. Many waterways are managed by a range of stakeholders and the Commission has a clear role to play in facilitating collaboration between stakeholders to deliver better strategic planning. The Commission will explore new forms of governance arrangements for the 'Blue Grid' of waterways in this regard during the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney in 2017. The Pittwater Water Review could be a useful template for the planning and management of major waterways.

Photo credit: Ku-ring-gai Council NORTH DISTRICT 129

Sustainability Priority 1: Sustainability Priority 2: Maintain and improve water Protect and conserve the values quality and waterway health of Sydney Harbour

The Office of Environment and Heritage When preparing strategic plans, relevant and the Environment Protection Authority planning authorities around Sydney have developed a risk-based framework Harbour should consider opportunities to: to assist decisions that maintain, improve or restore water quality in the strategic • conserve and interpret Aboriginal planning process to help meet the NSW and European heritage Water Quality and River Flow Objectives. • protect and enhance aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity (see Section 5.4) Relevant planning authorities and managers of public land should: • enhance access to and along the foreshore and provide • adopt the Office of Environment connected green space around and Heritage and the Environment the foreshore (see Section 5.5) Protection Authority’s framework to • manage demand for and the design determine the appropriate stormwater of essential maritime facilities within and wastewater management targets the natural and built environment. that contribute to maintaining or improving water quality and waterway How these matters are taken into account health to meet the community’s values is to be demonstrated in any relevant • consider more water sensitive planning proposal. approaches to managing stormwater to meet the water quality and Sustainability Priority 3: quantity targets, including Enhance access to Sydney harvesting and re-use of water and Harbour foreshore and waterways management of riparian corridors • develop mechanisms to allow offsetting Councils around Sydney Harbour should between sub-catchments, and work with Roads and Maritime Services facilitate cost-effective opportunities to revise foreshore and waterway access to meet the management targets for strategies for Sydney Harbour. These whole catchments and water quality strategies should consider ways to manage objectives for receiving waters competing demands placed on Sydney • while management targets are Harbour including: being established, ensure that • protection of flora and fauna the quality of stormwater and • public access to the foreshore wastewater from public land and and waterway new development in established urban areas maintains or improves • growth in boat ownership the health of waterways, in line with • changes in boat size community values and expectations • demand for moorings, marinas, of how waterways will be used. dinghy storage and other boat support infrastructure • demand for on-street boat parking. NORTH DISTRICT 130

Action S1: Review criteria for monitoring The Office of Environment and Heritage will: water quality and waterway health • recommend criteria for monitoring water The NSW Government and councils quality and aquatic ecosystem health for currently apply a range of approaches the different waterways in the District, to managing the District’s waterways, linked to the NSW Water Quality and River which often flow through more than Flow Objectives and national guidelines one local government area, reducing the • collaborate with councils and other potential to meet water quality objectives. stakeholders to undertake monitoring For the North District, these objectives cover a based on the recommended range of matters including protection of aquatic criteria for each waterway type, as ecosystems, primary and secondary recreation, resources become available the attractiveness and cleanliness of the • encourage complementary monitoring waterway and agricultural water for irrigation. programs that can help fill gaps in data on water quality and ecosystem health We will monitoring programs that have and raise community awareness and consistent indicators and criteria that track support for the protection of waterways progress towards meeting the community’s environmental values and long-term goals • provide open access to water quality for the waterway, set out in the NSW Water and waterway health data through Quality and River Flow Objectives (available an Information Asset Register. from www.environment.nsw.gov.au/ ieo/), noting that it can help target where CASE STUDY: Delivering Water management actions are needed to maintain Sensitive Growth water quality across the District. As data Lake Illawarra is a popular coastal location becomes available, it will be reported annually for tourists, and supports a productive on the Greater Sydney Dashboard (see commercial and recreational fishery as Section 1.3.4). well as a range of endangered ecological communities. Water quality issues in the lake are long-standing, and are still evident in some parts of the lake. The Illawarra-Shoalhaven Regional Plan adopts the Office of Environment and Heritage and the Environment Protection Authority’s framework that community benefits associated with the ecological health of the lake are not adversely affected by development in the catchment. The risk-based framework can be used as a strategic planning tool for assessing water quality management requirements for new development, including design of water quality strategies and infrastructure, and tailoring development controls and conditions of consent to manage the quality of water reaching Lake Illawarra. NORTH DISTRICT 131

5.4 Managing coastal landscapes 5.5 Protecting and The NSW Government is reforming the enhancing biodiversity legislative and regulatory framework for coastal The North District is recognised as having a rich management. These reforms will recognise and natural environment, supporting biodiversity. map four types of coastal areas, allowing State The District’s national parks and nature reserves, agencies and councils to better target the way as well as native vegetation on privately owned they manage coastal landscapes. land, provides habitats for threatened species and populations. The District’s coastline, The North District’s coast is a dynamic natural estuaries and waterways also provide habitat asset. Wind, waves, ocean currents, storm for a range of aquatic species and communities. events and shifts in climatic systems continually The protection of biodiversity in the landscape influence the coast, requiring an effective provides a range of economic and social management regime. Inundation and erosion benefits, such as opportunities for tourism from storm events are a natural process on the and recreation. For the North District to be coast which can impact on the landscape and sustainable, we need to protect and enhance significant heritage assets. Coastal management biodiversity and the landscapes that underpin programs provide the best opportunity to our social and economic wellbeing. addressing the impacts of coastal hazards. In the North District, several areas are vulnerable Established urban areas in the North District to hazards, including Collaroy, Narabeen, Mona contain areas of bushland that are important Vale and Bilgola. for biodiversity, as well as for their contribution to the visual landscape, waterway health and The Coastal Management Act 2016 directly other environmental processes. Many areas of integrates coastal management and planning urban bushland are on public land managed requirements into local land use planning by local councils, while some urban bushland is responsibilities under the Environmental found on privately owned land. We will examine Planning and Assessment Act 1979. Coastal opportunities to strengthen the protection of management programs will be included in bushland in urban areas as part of the review of council community and strategic planning and A Plan for Growing Sydney in 2017. integrated planning and reporting under the Local Government Act 1993. The protection of aquatic habitat and aquatic threatened species should also be considered Coastal management programs will guide in future planning for the North District. The land use planning decisions so that they better Fisheries Management Act 1994 contains reflect coastal management issues at a district separate offsetting measures to manage the level. They may be developed for the whole impact of activities on aquatic habitats. or any part of the coastal zone within a local government area or across the District. Conservation outcomes can be delivered more effectively and efficiently through strategic The NSW Government will provide $83.6 million planning at the landscape level, rather than across NSW from 2016 to 2021 to: on a site-by-site basis. This is because strategic • enable the preparation of coastal planning can consider opportunities to connect management programs areas of biodiversity, the relationship between • support coastal councils to implement different areas and threats to natural features. coastal management programs Strategic planning can also consider the effects of conservation efforts across the landscape. • support the delivery of state-wide science and technical advice District planning is, therefore, a vital part of the ongoing process of protecting and enhancing review and assess programs and proposals • biodiversity in the landscape. to ensure consistency with the new coastal management framework. NORTH DISTRICT 132

In 2014, the Independent Biodiversity Sustainability Priority 4: Legislation Review Panel, as part of the review Avoid and minimise impacts of biodiversity legislation in NSW, supported the on biodiversity consideration of biodiversity at the landscape scale and recommended the use of biodiversity Efforts to protect biodiversity values should certification, focused on proposed high- be based on avoiding and minimising intensity development areas that also contain as far as practicable, adverse impacts to important environmental values. biodiversity. Only when impacts cannot be The NSW Government has endorsed the avoided or minimised, should consideration Independent Panel’s recommendations and be given to offsetting those impacts. in response, has developed a fresh approach to strategic conservation planning in Greater Action S2: Update information on areas Sydney, with an initial emphasis on strategic of high environmental value environmental assessment and biodiversity Detailed information on areas of high certification of conservation planning in environmental value is available from Western Sydney. sources including the Office of For the North District, conservation planning will Environment and Heritage and focus on opportunities to protect and enhance councils. High quality vegetation mapping is areas of endangered Blue Gum High Forest available for most of Greater Sydney. Where and other valuable native vegetation close to necessary, data and mapping will be ground- existing national parks. truthed to improve its accuracy and effort will be directed towards surveys that fill any The objectives of strategic conservation information gaps. planning for the North District are to: The Department of Planning and Environment maintain, and where possible improve, the • and the Office of Environment and Heritage will: conservation status of threatened species and threatened ecological communities • work with councils to update map data layers on areas of high environmental value • achieve better outcomes for biodiversity as new information becomes available conservation than the outcomes that could have been achieved by site-by- • continue to make data on areas of high site or project-by-project efforts environmental value available to relevant planning authorities and the public. • facilitate urban growth and development in line with A Plan for Growing Sydney and this draft District Plan • provide an equitable model for recognising and recovering the cost of biodiversity impacts from urban growth and development • reduce the potential for land use conflict • reduce the cost and timeframes for development approvals, including approvals for infrastructure. We support this strategic approach to protecting biodiversity in the North District. This complements the delivery of Sydney’s Green Grid (see Section 5.6). We also support the use of local knowledge and expertise to identify fine- grain opportunities to connect and enhance smaller pockets of biodiversity in the landscape. NORTH DISTRICT 133

Biodiversity offsets to protect biodiversity The NSW Government has introduced a biodiversity offsets scheme to help address the loss of biodiversity values, including threatened species, due to habitat degradation and loss. Biodiversity offsets are a market-based scheme that provides a streamlined biodiversity assessment process for development, a rigorous and credible offsetting scheme as well as an opportunity for rural landowners to generate income by managing land for conservation. ‘Biodiversity credits’ can be generated by landowners and developers who commit to enhance and protect biodiversity on their land. These credits can then be sold, generating funds for the management of the site. Credits can be used to offset the loss of biodiversity that might occur as a result of development. The credits can also be sold to those seeking to invest in conservation outcomes, including philanthropic organisations and government. NORTH DISTRICT 134 NORTH DISTRICT 135

5.6 Delivering Sydney’s Green Grid Our objectives for Sydney’s Green Grid are for a highly connected and diverse network that: A Plan for Growing Sydney identifies the opportunity to create Sydney’s Green Grid, and • increases access to open space noted that delivering a city-wide Green Grid • promotes good health and active living would promote a healthier urban environment, • creates new high quality improve community access to recreation and public areas and places exercise, encourage social interaction, support • makes the urban environment more green walking and cycling connections and improve the resilience of Greater Sydney. • enhances green spaces • promotes green skills in bushland and This draft District Plan builds on the concept waterway care and restoration of Sydney’s Green Grid, as articulated in A Plan for Growing Sydney. We see the Green Grid as a • improves access to sport and recreation major legacy for future generations. • delivers better tools for future open space planning. We have developed a vision for Sydney’s Green Grid with an appreciation of Greater Sydney’s The North District’s open spaces include large landscape and recognition of the diversity parks and reserves in the Hawkesbury-Nepean of elements and connections, including the Valley such as the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Blue Grid of Sydney’s beaches, estuaries and Park and Berowra Valley National Park as well waterways, its variety of parks and open as Sydney Harbour National Park and Manly spaces and connections to bushland, from Warringah War Memorial Park (known as local pockets of native vegetation to Sydney Manly Dam). Harbour. Our detailed report which outlines the We have identified several priority Green Grid conceptual approach behind Sydney’s Green projects for the North District. These are shown Grid is available in our background material at on Figure 5-2 and described below. www.greater.sydney. By recognising the different ways people use open space now and into the future, and by planning for open space as a Green Grid, there are more opportunities to provide:

• Amenity: Open space, in particular less formal open spaces such as bushland or natural waterways, which can influence a place’s character, with biodiversity and waterways having an intrinsic value that must be recognised when planning at a wider scale. • Activity: With a growing population, more people will require access to more parks and sporting grounds for organised sport and recreation. • Accessibility: These spaces need to be connected through networks of streets, places and public areas in a way that makes it easier to walk or cycle. NORTH DISTRICT 136

Figure 5-2: North District Open space and Green Grid

Strategic Centre Waterways Highway

District Centre National and State Parks Priority Projects

District Boundary Railway Projects Important to District

Urban Area Railway Station Green Grid Opportunities

Metropolitan Rural Area Motorway

NORTH DISTRICT Source: Greater Sydney Commission, 2016 137

Other important projects to deliver Sydney’s Green Grid Priority Projects in the North District

Lane Cove National Park and Lane Cove River Great North Walk Enhancing open spaces along the Lane Cove River Upgrading Berowra Valley sections of the 250 foreshores to create unique recreational experiences kilometre Great North Walk from Newcastle to linking the Lane Cove National Park to Macquarie Park, Lane Cove (National Parks and Wildlife Service) and Macquarie University, Chatswood and Epping. potentially including links from train stations and centres to the Great North Walk, particularly Northern Beaches Coastal Lagoons the link from Hornsby to Berowra Valley through Combining three related projects at Curl Lagoon and Hornsby Quarry. Greendale Creek, Dee Why Lagoon and Wheeler Creek and Warriewood Wetlands and Narrabeen Creek that Parramatta River and Sydney Harbour Foreshore support the recreational needs of the surrounding communities and wider District, and protect Improving foreshore access opportunities by Narrabeen Lagoon as a recreation asset and wildlife completing missing links along the northern sanctuary. Parramatta River foreshore, and continuing to support the delivery of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust Coastal Walk from Barrenjoey Head to Manly projects, including the proposal to transform the Continuing to support the development of the HMAS Platypus site in Neutral Bay into a public park Great North Walk, reviewing current foreshore access, with buildings adapted for a range of new uses. developing staging strategies for the completion of any missing links or sections of lower quality Garigal National Park: Oxford Falls and Deep Creek and improving pedestrian and cycle access from surrounding suburbs and sustainable transport Improving links to the new Northern Beaches Hospital connections from areas further west. Precinct, improving walking and cycling links through to Narrabeen Lagoon and protecting the national park from impacts from nearby development.

Eastwood to Macquarie Park Open Space Corridors

Building on existing green links between these two suburbs including Shrimptons Creek, Terrys Creek and the Booth Road – North Road – Welby Street Green Link.

Pittwater Road Corridor

Establishing street trees along the corridor, exploring options for new development setbacks to incrementally widen the corridor to improve the environment for walking and cycling, linking the corridor to surrounding bushland patches in Ingleside and initially focusing on the areas between Queenscliff to Brookvale, Dee Why to Collaroy and North Narrabeen to Mona Vale. NORTH DISTRICT 138

Different types of open space serve different purposes. The Sydney Open Space Audit, available at www.greater.sydney, has categorised open space as either regional open space, district open space or local open space. Regional open space has a region- wide catchment, serving communities across Greater Sydney. District open space serves a number of neighbourhoods or suburbs, with a catchment that often extends across council boundaries. Regional open space makes up almost 45% of the District and 87% of the District’s open space. Most regional open space is located in the north along the Hawkesbury River and its tributaries. Over 48% of the District is covered in bushland. Other large areas of regional open space follow the creek system and steep sandstone valleys, providing a bushland network close to where people live, providing a buffer between areas of urban development. As a result, 97% of all North District homes are within five kilometres of open space. NORTH DISTRICT 139

Sustainability Priority 5: Sustainability Priority 6: Align strategic planning to the Protect, enhance and extend the vision for the Green Grid urban canopy

Consistent with Action 3.2.1 of A Plan When making strategic plans, relevant for Growing Sydney, relevant planning planning authorities should consider how authorities should consider opportunities tree canopy cover in land release and to support the delivery of the North established urban areas can be protected District Green Grid. This could include and increased, with a focus on providing how land use zones can be applied, how shade to streets. new development is designed, or where Councils should include green cover and voluntary planning agreements and shade tree planting along major transport agreements for dual use of open space and corridors in local infrastructure investment recreational facilities could contribute to planning, development control and urban delivering the Green Grid. design. How these matters have been taken into How these matters have been taken into account is to be demonstrated in any account is to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal. relevant planning proposal.

Trees in the urban environment provide many Across Greater Sydney, communities have benefits. A green canopy provides shade to developed an appreciation of visual beauty reduce the ambient temperature at ground of scenic landscapes. Scenic landscapes are level, provides habitat for biodiversity and often associated with particular environmental enhances the look of the urban landscape. attributes, however they are also value for social Trees in the urban environment also provide and economic reasons, as they can provide benefits by removing fine particles from the communities with a sense of identity, preserve air and improving air quality. This is particularly links to Aboriginal and colonial era heritage and important along busy road corridors where culture and provide opportunities for tourism air quality can be improved. Some councils in and recreation. Greater Sydney have already mapped areas at the greatest risk of becoming urban heat islands As the North District grows, it will become and are using this information to prioritise more important to map and recognise the planting of shade trees to adapt and respond to importance of these scenic landscapes and to a changing climate. The Draft Climate Change develop planning and design approaches to Fund Strategic Plan includes an action to respect and protect them. increase tree canopy coverage in heat exposed suburbs. NORTH DISTRICT 140

We encourage councils to apply for funding Sustainability Priority 7: through these programs to deliver the North Improve protection of ridgelines District Green Grid priorities. We will oversee and scenic areas the distribution of Metropolitan Greenspace The scenic qualities of landscapes are Program grants. already recognised and considered in Action S4: Develop support tools some areas of Greater Sydney, as part of and methodologies for local open the strategic planning and development space planning process. As the North District grows, demand All councils should identify and map for open space and recreation areas areas with high scenic value and develop will increase. There may also be strategies, planning and development increased demand for different types of open controls that protect important scenic space to meet changing community needs. landscapes and vistas of them. This is particularly critical in relation to views We will provide local councils with a toolkit of both to and from waterways. Planning and resources and a consistent methodology that development controls should prohibit will help councils plan for the active recreation opportunities for development on and open space needs of their communities. ridgelines that would diminish their scenic The tool kit will recognise the widely varying quality. contexts that influence opportunities to provide open space across Greater Sydney. How these matters have been taken into account is to be demonstrated in any Action S5: Update the Urban Green Cover relevant planning proposal. in NSW Technical Guidelines to respond to solar access to roofs Action S3: Use funding programs to The Urban Green Cover in NSW deliver the North District Green Grid Technical Guidelines were developed priorities to increase resilience to urban heat island impacts and help communities prepare Consistent with Action 3.2.1 of A Plan for the impacts of climate change. The for Growing Sydney, councils have a Guidelines cover vegetation, as well as leading role in delivering the North permeable and reflective surfaces to minimise District Green Grid priorities through local temperatures and encourage evaporation their planning and investment in open space. from soil and plants. In the vegetation section, Funding programs managed by the NSW these guidelines identify issues that councils Government can be used to extend and should consider when selecting trees such as enhance open space as part of the Green Grid. tolerance to air and water pollution, drought or These are: waterlogging, wind tunnelling, overshadowing • Metropolitan Greenspace Program: and reduced sunlight, as well as lifespan and matches funding contributions from the location of underground and overhead councils to improve open spaces services. for recreational purposes and to The Office of Environment and Heritage and create links between bushland, the Department of Planning and Environment, parks, waterways and centres. through their participation in the Low Carbon

• Environmental Trust grants programs: Living Cooperative Research Centre, will review funds projects that rehabilitate or the Urban Green Cover in NSW Technical regenerate the environment, or promote Guidelines to investigate taking solar access environmental education and sustainability. to roofs into consideration. This will mean • Sydney’s Walking Future and Sydney’s trees selected to increase canopy cover do not Cycling Future programs: aim to improve overshadow roofs that have the potential to walking and cycling connections. accommodate solar hot water systems and solar panels. NORTH DISTRICT 141 NORTH DISTRICT 142

5.7 Managing the Metropolitan The interaction of these competing interests Rural Area and the variation in landscape and patterns of activity is complex and varies across the A Plan for Growing Sydney adopted the term Metropolitan Rural Area. It is not a matter of Metropolitan Rural Area to describe the non- planning to avoid tensions between activities urban areas at the periphery of Greater Sydney. – these activities are already interspersed – It is important to recognise that a significant it is instead a challenge to manage these proportion of this area bushland in public interactions and develop approaches to ownership in the form of national parks. distribute costs and benefits equitably and in The Metropolitan Rural Area has a range of the context of clearly defined outcomes. environmental, social and economic values, Mapping the range of environmental, social including scenic landscapes, habitat and and economic values has been completed, as biodiversity, mineral and energy resources, part of a report on considerations for district water supply catchments, tourism, heritage planning in the Metropolitan Rural Area, and cultural assets and areas of productive however mapping and understanding the agriculture. The Metropolitan Rural Area also range or values can only provide the basis for a supports small rural villages and areas of more place-based or locality-specific approach low intensity rural –residential development, to strategic planning that recognises the providing opportunities for people to live in a complexity of these areas. This will take time ‘rural’ setting. In the North District, parts of the and require consultation due to the varying Metropolitan Rural Area are located in Northern expectations of existing landowners and the Beaches, Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai local public interest. government areas. This includes the rural areas and villages of Terrey Hills, Oxford Falls, Galston, Despite the variation across the Metropolitan Glenorie, Fiddletown, Maroota, Canoelands, Rural Area, common tensions that will need Berowra Waters and Brooklyn. to be resolved on a locality by locality basis include: There is widespread support for the continuation of agricultural production in the Metropolitan • biodiversity and ecosystem services Rural Area. For this to be achieved, it is important on private land and the need to to recognise existing and potential conflicts conserve and maintain them between these different land uses and activities • the value of land for agricultural production and the various pressures on continuing being less than the value from having access agricultural production. Ultimately, our ambition to, and being part of, the metropolitan area is to see the area as an interconnected system • the impact of intensive agricultural rather than individual activities on individual production on adjoining properties parcels of land. For example, there are many • pressures on the profitability and public values on private land including scenic competitiveness of particular agricultural values, ecosystems services such as riparian activities due to both national and global corridors that maintain water quality in creeks restructuring of agricultural production. and waterways or biodiversity. Conversely, private values such as continuing poultry production In Greater Sydney’s semi-rural areas, land values requires appropriate setbacks and public are shaped by both the value of being close to infrastructure to operate. the city (the urban effects) and the value of the land for agricultural production (the agricultural Our approach to the challenges facing the effect). Land values have increased due to Metropolitan Rural Area is similar to the approach demand for rural lifestyle properties that are we take for Greater Sydney as a whole – that is, close to the city. to recognise the pressures as a dynamic force that can be harnessed and redirected to achieve social, economic and environmental benefits. NORTH DISTRICT 143

The demand for lifestyle properties will increase. More than 75% of the Metropolitan Rural Area Lifestyle rural residents generally expect the within the North District is publicly-owned land. amenity of suburbia and this often results in Figure 5-3 shows the different types of uses conflict with existing agricultural activities on privately owned land in the North District’s and inhibits future intensification. There is also portion of the Metropolitan Rural Area, and an expectation that the services provided in highlights that most rural land is either used for urban areas including schools and community grazing or is not actively used. There is also a facilities, or mains water, sewerage and in some substantial area of land used for horticulture. cases roads with kerbs and guttering will There is an agricultural cluster in the North be provided. District – a multi-use horticulture cluster, with These conflicts, combined with the expectation vegetables and fruit trees – around Middle that land can be subdivided or rezoned at a Dural, Galston and Arcadia. This cluster extends future date for urban development, can further into the Hills Shire in the West Central District. reduce productivity, leading to Nurseries – both outdoor and undercover – are under investment. the most economically productive form of agriculture in the North District, while cut-flower The long-term potential of the Metropolitan and stone fruit production are the other main Rural Area needs to be seen in relation to the agricultural activities. emerging Western City. From this perspective, the potential for the Metropolitan Rural Area to become a parkland city with possible link to food processing and logistic terminals around the Western Sydney Airport for domestic consumption and export. These opportunities will be explored and developed as part of the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney in 2017.

Figure 5-3: North District Metropolitan Rural Area – land uses on privately owned land.

Source: Greater Sydney Commission, adapted from the Considerations for District Planning in the Metropolitan Rural Area of the Greater Sydney Region report, AgEconPlus 2016 NORTH DISTRICT 144

There are also a number of extractive industry A Plan for Growing Sydney recommendeds operations in the North District, around a strategic framework and criteria to assist Maroota, producing construction materials decision-making in the Metropolitan Rural Area. such as sand. These industries are vital as part In line with Action 4.1.2 of A Plan for Growing of the overall supply of construction materials Sydney, we have mapped and analysed to support growth and urban development overlapping multiple activities and Metropolitan across Greater Sydney. Sydney Regional Rural Area values for each district. A conclusion Environmental Plan No.9 – Extractive Industry of this work is that given the complexity and sets out the NSW Government’s approach to variation across the area, a design-led response identifying and facilitating the development of is likely to be more appropriate and effective extractive resources in Greater Sydney and the than relying on generic criteria for managing Central Coast. These types of mineral extractive the multiple interests and values, activities and industries used for construction are not subject conflicts that vary from locality to locality. to the Strategic Release Framework (available Design-led planning is a proactive, consultative from www.resourcesandenergy.nsw.gov. planning process that identifies a desired au), which is directed to coal and petroleum outcome for a specific area, based on its (including coal seam gas) exploration. characteristics, future opportunities and The NSW Government provides information community values, as well as potential pathways on existing and potential future mineral and to reach this outcome (see Section 4.6.1). This is energy resource operations across Greater a more holistic and integrated approach than Sydney, such as in the Minerals Resource a criteria response, which in this case manages Audit, and this information can be found growth and change on a site by site or project at the Common Ground website at by project basis, applying a set of criteria to www.commonground.nsw.gov.au. weigh up the benefits or costs of each project. Potential exists for land use conflicts. NSW Government has policy and legislative tools to support the sustainable development of mineral and energy resources while protecting the environment, agricultural lands, health of communities and facilitating growth in housing and employment. These policy and legislative tools include:

• phased land uses commensurate with development phases of a mineral (including extractive) and energy resource industry • Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 • Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 • Mining Act 1992 and Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991 • State Environmental Planning Policy (Mining Petroleum Production and Extractive Industries) 2007 • Land Use Conflict Risk Assessment Guide • Preliminary Regional Issues Assessment for Potential Coal and Petroleum Exploration Release Areas. NORTH DISTRICT 145

Sustainability Priority 8: Sustainability Priority 9: Discourage urban development in Consider environmental, social the Metropolitan Rural Area and economic values when planning for the Metropolitan Urban development in the Metropolitan Rural Area Rural Area is not consistent with the protection of the Area’s existing values. Agriculture and primary industries are Conversion of land to urban residential essential to Greater Sydney and to the development is not necessary in the short North District’s economy. They need to medium term given the supply of land to be planned and protected to avoid for housing in other parts of Greater Sydney, their transition to higher and better uses and conversion of rural land to suburban (in financial terms) such as suburban development does not form part of the residential development. housing targets that have been defined for In planning for the Metropolitan Rural Area, the District or individual local the relevant planning authority should government areas. undertake their own review of land use In general, urban development in the activities in the context of environmental, Metropolitan Rural Area will not be economic and social values, and consider supported unless the relevant planning our research regarding the multiple values authority has undertaken strategic planning and activities in their District to better in accordance with Sustainability Priorities understand how they are operating, the 9 and 10. range of uses operating within them, their interdependencies, key constraints and Relevant planning authorities should not opportunities to their effective operation support planning proposals affecting land and evolution. currently within a RU (rural) or E (environmental) zone unless: On this basis, when planning for the Metropolitan Rural Area in the North • these are in areas identified in District, relevant planning authorities should a regional plan or a district plan consider how to: as urban investigation areas • these also form part of, or are • provide greater certainty with identified as a result of, strategic regards to built form outcomes planning in accordance with in and around villages Sustainability Priorities 9 and 10. • articulate the different landscape and heritage values and character of rural areas, with different planning and development controls • clarify the what the future should be for rural lands to prevent speculation and protect against encroachment • conserve Aboriginal cultural heritage. NORTH DISTRICT 146 NORTH DISTRICT 147

Sustainability Priority 10: Provide for rural residential development while protecting the values of the Metropolitan Rural Area

Rural landscapes provide opportunities Relevant planning authorities should adopt a for housing in rural towns and villages, as design-led approach to planning for well as rural residential living that is already localities that: dispersed throughout the Metropolitan • considers siting and design principles Rural Area. Any plans to expand rural towns for rural residential development that and villages must first consider how these conserves the values identified in the places fit in the landscape and how their report on considerations for district valued characteristics can be protected and planning in the Metropolitan Rural Area extended sympathetically in order to optimise their cultural and economic potential. This will • considers restrictions on additional involve analysis of the key characteristics of rural residential development that these towns and villages as part of a design- may be affected by existing or future led approach. rural and agricultural activity • considers setbacks and defines Consideration of further subdivision for appropriate buffers for rural activities rural residential development should be approached in a similar way, with careful • investigates and develops innovative consideration of siting, impacts and potential approaches to conserve and manage to improve and ensure ongoing maintenance biodiversity, habitat and scenic landscapes. of biodiversity, ecological, scenic and Councils should liaise with the Commission productive values. to develop design-led approaches for the Metropolitan Rural Area and in the first instance utilise the design approaches outlined in the NSW Government’s draft Architecture and Urban Design Policy, Better Placed (October 2016). How these matters have been taken into account is to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal. NORTH DISTRICT 148

5.8 Creating an efficient The NSW Government has a number of policies North District that aim to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These Increasing a city’s efficiency reduces impacts include: on the environment and the city’s carbon footprint while increasing productivity. This • NSW Climate Change Policy Framework means progressive reduction in carbon • Draft Climate Change Fund Strategic Plan emissions, potable water use, and waste. It • NSW Government Resource Efficiency Policy also means upgrading the District's grey grid • Waste Avoidance and Resource of ageing infrastructure with a focus on urban Recovery Strategy 2014-21 renewal areas and precincts. Incorporating Metropolitan Water Plan. water sensitive urban design measures as areas • develop will help vegetation growth and protect Improving resource efficiency is critical to waterways. Maximising local water recycling reducing greenhouse gas emission reductions and the potential for stormwater harvesting can to meet the NSW Government target of net create opportunities for greening public open zero carbon emissions by 2050, in line with spaces including parks, ovals and Australia’s international commitments to school playgrounds. combat climate change. The Commission’s ambition is to make Greater Sydney a net zero carbon emission city by 2050. Making more efficient use of water, energy, fuels and materials and improving the management of waste and recycling will help Greater Sydney become more sustainable and also help minimise risks from potential future rises in the costs of energy.

The NSW Climate Change Policy Framework The NSW Climate Change Policy Framework In December 2015, Australia and 194 other sets out two aspirational objectives for the countries agreed on the United Nations State; to achieve net zero emissions by Paris Agreement on climate change. The key 2050; and to be more resilient to a changing objectives of the Paris Agreement include: climate. These long-term objectives aim to attract investment in renewable energy and • a goal to limit the increase in global energy efficiency, guide public and private temperatures to well below 2°C and sector decision-making, and help make NSW pursue efforts to limit the rise to 1.5°C Government policy consistent with national • a commitment to achieve net- and international policy on climate change. zero emissions globally, by the To implement the NSW Climate Change second half of the century. Policy Framework, the NSW Government The NSW Government endorses the Paris has prepared the Draft Climate Change Agreement, and has released the NSW Fund Strategic Plan, which sets out priority Climate Change Policy Framework, outlining investment areas and potential actions using how NSW will take action that is consistent $500 million of new funding from the $1.4 with Australia’s commitment to the Paris billion Climate Change Fund over the period Agreement. from 2017 to 2022, to help NSW make the transition to a net-zero emissions future and adapt to a changing climate. NORTH DISTRICT 149

5.8.1 Waste management Sustainability Priority 11: Waste management infrastructure across Support opportunities for District Greater Sydney is largely managed and owned waste management by the private sector. The North District has When making plans, relevant planning waste treatment facilities including a landfill authorities should: and organics treatment facility at Belrose and a transfer station at Artarmon. • use appropriate land use zones to minimise the potential for conflict The North District is one of the few districts in with the operation and expansion NSW with a facility capable of managing its own of existing waste facilities waste for the foreseeable future. The Kimbriki Resource Recovery Facility, on the border • protect precincts that have functioning of Ingleside and Terry Hills, is jointly owned waste management facilities from by Northern Beaches Council and Mosman encroachment by residential and Council. A new recycling and waste processing other sensitive development facility being built at Kimbriki is scheduled to • consider ways to encourage design open by 2019-20. This facility will be able to turn measures such as fully enclosing food and vegetation waste into compost which waste facilities to minimise dust, can then be sold. The need for this new waste odours and noise impacts to mitigate collection system has come about for the risks and potential impacts several reasons: on surrounding communities. • the Belrose landfill site reached capacity How these matters have been taken into and closed in November 2014 account is to be demonstrated in any • landfill fees are set to rise steeply relevant planning proposal. • food currently makes up almost 40% of garbage and needs to be recycled to meet NSW Government landfill diversion targets. Action S6: Identify land for future waste reuse and recycling A Plan for Growing Sydney notes the need for additional waste and recycling facilities to help As the North District grows, the need manage demand as Greater Sydney grows. to manage waste will grow. In higher density neighbourhoods, there may be opportunities to improve the efficiency of waste collection services by introducing innovative precinct-based waste collection, reuse and recycling. In accordance with Action 4.3.2 of A Plan for Growing Sydney, the Environment Protection Authority and the Department of Planning and Environment, in participation with councils, will identify additional land for waste management, reuse and recycling and how and where precinct-based waste collection services could operate within Greater Sydney. NORTH DISTRICT 150

5.8.2 Energy and water Action S8: Support the development of initiatives for a sustainable low Making more efficient use of energy and carbon future water is a cost effective way to reduce carbon emissions, reduce pressure on waterways and When identifying areas that are likely ecosystem, and reduce costs to State and local to undergo significant change, governments. Steps to reduce greenhouse relevant planning authorities should gas emissions will rely on action taken at the identify areas that have the potential local and district scale, as well as national and to become low carbon – high environmental international efforts. Monitoring the use of efficiency areas. energy and water can help guide and support Our goal is to enable progressive reduction targeted measures to make the North District in carbon emissions, potable water use and more efficient and sustainable. waste and to upgrade the District's ageing We will report annually on carbon emissions infrastructure, with a focus in the first instance across Greater Sydney on the Greater Sydney on NSW Government-led urban renewal areas, Dashboard in accordance with the C40 priority precincts and Priority Growth Areas. (Carbon Disclosure Protocol) requirements. Action S9: Support the development of Access to data will help support the environmental performance targets and identification of targeted and cost-effective benchmarks initiatives to help meet the NSW target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Improving the energy and water efficiency of buildings, and reducing We will also report on a range of environmental waste in urban renewal projects and measures in line with Action IM3 above (see infrastructure projects have a wide Section 1.2.4). range of benefits, including reduced Adopting a place-based approach and greenhouse gas emissions, reduced costs identifying Collaboration Areas enables us to associated with energy use, and greater appeal plan for improved environmental performance. to building owners and tenants. This could also improve the ability to: Adopting innovative transport technologies, • renew and replace inefficient infrastructure such as electric vehicles, can also help make the (greening the infrastructure grey-grid) North District more sustainable and efficient. • organise utilities, car parking, Electric vehicles also have other benefits, such amenities, open space, urban as lower levels of noise and air pollution that can green cover and public spaces be particularly valuable in densely-settled urban areas. • apply and further develop successful approaches from other The Commission, in partnership with the NSW areas of Greater Sydney. Climate Council, the Australian Government, State agencies and utility providers, will Action S7: Embed the NSW Climate investigate ways to define environmental Change Policy Framework into local performance targets and benchmarks for areas planning decisions and projects, and implementation measures We will work with councils, the Office to help reach these targets. This will include of Environment and Heritage and consideration of the potential growth in use of other State agencies to see how best electric vehicles and options for standardised to implement the NSW Climate approaches to charging locations for Change Policy Framework across Greater electric vehicles. Sydney. We will identify which actions in the We will also consider ways to move towards Draft Climate Change Fund Strategic Plan greater sharing of open source data to support could be delivered in partnership with State better environmental performance. agencies and councils to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions and improve environmental performance. NORTH DISTRICT 151

5.9 Planning for a resilient Greater Sydney’s resilience challenge North District and 100 Resilient Cities Urban resilience is 'the capacity of Around the world, leading cities are individuals, communities, institutions, examining the challenge of urban businesses and systems within a city resilience and exploring ways to become to survive, adapt and thrive no matter more resilient. 100 Resilient Cities is an international project developed by the what kinds of chronic stresses and Rockefeller Foundation, dedicated to helping acute shock they experience'. cities around the world become more 100 Resilient Cities project resilient to the physical, social and economic challenges that are a growing part of the 21st Century. The North District’s coastal and harbourside Cities in the 100 Resilient Cities network are qualities and its proximity to bushland provided with resources, including financial contribute to a great lifestyle. The interface and logistical guidance, expert support, of urban areas and activities with the natural and access to a global network of cities, to landscape brings risks, including coastal develop a roadmap to resilience. Work is inundation and erosion, flooding and bushfires. underway to develop a resilience strategy for Impacts from natural hazards have the potential Greater Sydney. to increase as the climate changes, requiring adaptive responses. Greater Sydney’s participation in the 100 Resilient Cities network is being led by the The NSW Government has a number of policies City of Sydney. We support the Resilient and programs that aim to make NSW more Sydney office - hosted by the City of Sydney – resilient to natural hazards and a changing to develop a resilience strategy for climate. As well as the NSW Climate Change Greater Sydney. Policy Framework and the Draft Climate Change Fund Strategic Plan, AdaptNSW, the NSW and ACT Regional Climate Change Model and a number of other climate change The most significant natural hazards and acute adaptation programs are in place. shocks that affect the North District include bushfire, severe storms and coastal erosion and inundation, which can also impact coastal lagoons and stream. These natural phenomena will be potentially exacerbated by climate change. NORTH DISTRICT 152

Planning law in NSW requires new development AdaptNSW is a Government led approach on bushfire-prone land to comply with the to understanding climate change to better provisions of the NSW Rural Fire Service’s manage risk and take actions to adapt. Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006 as Projections to 2030 across Greater consistent with s. 79BA of the Environmental Sydney are: Planning and Assessment Act 1979. Rain. Average annual rainfall is expected • Placing development in hazardous areas to increase by +1.7% in the Sydney or increasing housing density in areas with Basin. Rainfall is projected to increase limited evacuation options increases risk to during autumn (+9.7%) with the largest people and property from bushfire. Designing increase seen in the northern margins neighbourhoods to minimise the perimeter of of the Greater Sydney Region. Rainfall land that interfaces with the hazardous areas is projected to reduce in spring (-2.6%) can also reduce risks. and marginally in summer (-0.2%). Although clearing vegetation around • Bushfire. The Forest Fire Danger Index (FFDI) quantifies bushfire weather developments on bushfire-prone land can help conditions, combining observations reduce risks from bushfire, clearing must be of temperature, humidity and wind balanced against the protection of bushland speed. Fire weather is classified as and its ecological processes and systems. severe when the FFDI is above 50. The Rural Fire Service will continue to require Severe fire weather is projected to have that new development comply with the a slight increase in summer months to requirements set out in Planning for Bush Fire 2030. Decreases are projected during Protection 2006. autumn and across the Sydney Basin Managing flooding is an important priority for in spring. A reduction during autumn communities across Greater Sydney. All local is likely due to increases in rainfall. government areas in the North District are Bushfires are not a major threat in the exposed to some flood threat, whether from North District; however, bushfire smoke major rivers or local overland flow. Damage from other parts of Greater Sydney can caused by flooding can be significant. impact air quality in the North District. • Heat. Hot days, measured by the In NSW, councils have responsibility number of days a year with a maximum for managing flood risk, including the temperature over 35ºC, are projected development of flood studies and floodplain to increase by an average of four risk management studies. The New South Wales days per year by 2030. There is little Government provides councils with technical, change to hot days expected along financial and policy assistance in floodplain risk coastal areas of the North District. management. The NSW Government has also prepared the Floodplain Development Manual • Cold. Changes in cold nights, measured 2005, to guide local planning for development by minimum temperature (less than on flood liable land. 2ºC) can have considerable impacts on native ecosystems and agricultural Compared to many cities around the world, crops reliant on cold winters. There are Greater Sydney enjoys excellent air quality, no changes expected along coastal which enhances our reputation as a sustainable districts, including the North District. and liveable city. However, the combined effect of air circulation patterns in the Sydney Basin, local topography, and proximity to sources of different sources of air pollution such as wood- fire smoke, can lead to localised air quality issues, particularly in parts of the West and South West Districts. We will examine options to improve air quality as part of the review of A Plan for Growing Sydney in 2017. NORTH DISTRICT 153

Transport movements along major road and rail Sustainability Priority 13: corridors generate noise and are a source of air Integrate land use and transport pollution. The degree of noise or air pollution planning to consider emergency can be related to the volume of traffic and the evacuation needs level of truck and bus movements. There are controls in place in the State Environmental Relevant planning authorities should Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 to assist coordinate with Transport for NSW and in reducing the health impacts of rail and the State Emergency Service to consider road noise and adverse air quality on sensitive land use and local road planning, so that it adjacent development. is integrated with emergency evacuation Reducing particle pollution is a priority for planning and takes into account the the NSW Government and the community cumulative impact of growth on road as exposure can be particularly harmful. The evacuation capacity. national standard for particle pollution has been How these matters have been taken into exceeded in Greater Sydney for up to 11 days account is to be demonstrated in any per year in the last decade and the fine particle relevant planning proposal. standard for up to 14 days per year. These events are often associated with extreme events such as bushfires and dust storms. Sustainability Priority 14: Use buffers to manage the We support public transport, walking and impacts of rural activities on cycling, and electric cars as opportunities to noise, odour and air quality reduce air pollution, and will collaborate with the Office of Environment and Heritage and When preparing strategic plans relevant other agencies and utilities to report annually planning authorities will: on air quality across Greater Sydney through the Greater Sydney Dashboard. • work with the Environment Protection Authority, the Department of Primary Industries and councils to identify Sustainability Priority 12: approaches (that may include buffers) Mitigate the urban heat for agriculture and primary industry island effect activities to manage land use conflicts Relevant planning authorities should • use strategic plans to prevent consider where the urban heat island or limit development in areas effect is experienced, and the location of that would be in conflict with vulnerable communities and use strategic agriculture and primary industry plans to reduce impacts from extreme heat. • protect agriculture and How these matters have been taken into primary industry activities from account is to be demonstrated in any encroachment by residential and relevant planning proposal. other sensitive development. How these matters have been taken into account is to be demonstrated in any relevant planning proposal.

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Action S10: Incorporate the mitigation of Sustainability Priority 15: the urban heat island effect into planning Assist local communities develop for urban renewal projects and Priority a coordinated understanding of Growth Areas natural hazards and responses that reduce risk Air temperatures in Greater Sydney are expected to increase due to climate The Commission, the NSW Government and change and increasing urbanisation, local councils will continue to adopt a range though less so in coastal areas of the of tools, resources and implement actions North District. The highly urbanised to adapt to climate change and reduce environment in parts of the North District can risks to public and private assets. We will increase localised heat even more. Nevertheless, also explore ways to coordinate, improve increasing the tree canopy is an important and communicate information about risks priority for the North District, which can help associated with climate change to local reduce the impact of the urban heat island communities. effect. The Office of Environment and Heritage has mapped areas where extreme heat is experienced and where it is likely to increase with climate change. These maps can be The North District and the viewed at www.climatechange.environment. Hawkesbury Nepean nsw.gov.au. The Hawkesbury-Nepean floodplain is unique – unlike most other river catchments The Department of Planning and Environment in Australia it has significantly higher depths will consider ways to reduce the impact of during flood events, created by several the urban heat island effect in its planning for narrow gorges that constrict the flow of priority urban renewal precincts and corridors, floodwaters downstream. Limited flood and in the new development code for Priority warning time is a risk factor and there is Growth Areas across Greater Sydney. a complex interaction between the main Action S11: Review the guidelines for flow of the river and the catchment’s air quality and noise measures for multiple creeks. For these reasons, the NSW development near rail corridors and Government believes the Hawkesbury- busy roads Nepean Valley presents the greatest flood risk in NSW, which has implications for urban The Department of Planning and development and emergency management Environment will work with other State planning in the catchment. agencies to review State Environmental Planning Policy The area of greatest flood risk is upstream (Infrastructure) 2007 and update the of the Sackville Gorge. Due to its location Development Near Rail Corridors and Busy downstream of Sackville Gorge, the North Roads – Interim Guideline (Department of District is at much lower risk from flooding in Planning 2008) to include contemporary air the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley. quality and noise information. This will include analysis of likely rail corridor and road vehicle movement patterns in 2036 to provide an understanding of where air quality and noise issues might need to be managed into the future. The Environment Protection Authority, in collaboration with the Department of Planning and Environment and stakeholders, will develop principles for reducing emissions and exposure to air pollution. These will be able to be used by relevant planning authorities and will be considered when preparing strategic plans and making development decisions across NORTH DISTRICT Greater Sydney. 155

Action S12: Identify and map potential high impact areas for noise and air pollution Across the North District, the Environment Protection Authority and councils already provide a framework for potentially hazardous activities to operate and manage any impacts on air quality and noise. The Environment Protection Authority will work with the Department of Planning and Environment and councils to identify and map buffers around industries that have been granted a licence to pollute. These will vary based on the level of risk of impacts on the surrounding community. NORTH DISTRICT Glossary 156

Term Draft District Plan definition

The metropolis of three cities includes the developing Central City, which is anchored by Greater Parramatta and the Olympic Central City Peninsula (GPOP) in the West Central District and the strategic centres of Blacktown (also associated with Western City), Norwest, Macquarie Park (also associated with Eastern City) and Rhodes.

A Collaboration Area is a designated place where a significant productivity, liveability or sustainability outcome can be better achieved through the collaboration of different levels of Collaboration Area government and in some cases the private sector or landowners. It is also a place where the Commission will seek to lead or be a major player in facilitating the collaboration.

District centres play a significant district role due to the presence of one or more of the following characteristics: • the scale of retail activity, generally over 50,000m2 of floor space District centres • the presence of health and education facilities that serve the district and the local community • the level of transport services District centres also generally have between 5,000 to 10,000 jobs

The metropolis of three cities includes the established Eastern City, which spans the North, Central and South Districts and the strategic centres of Northern Beaches Hospital, Macquarie Park Eastern City (also associated with Central City), Chatswood, St Leonards, North Sydney, Sydney City, Randwick Health and Education, Green Square-Mascot, Sydney Airport, Port Botany and Kogarah.

The Employment Lands Development Program provides information on planning for employment lands and business Employment Lands parks across metropolitan Sydney and is administered by the Development Program Department of Planning and Environment. The Program produces an annual report on the supply of and demand for employment lands.

Greater Parramatta includes Parramatta City, and the precincts of Greater Parramatta Westmead, Parramatta North, Rydalmere and Camellia.

Greater Parramatta and the Olympic Peninsula (GPOP) is the first Collaboration Area of the Commission. GPOP spans 13 kilometres east–west from Strathfield to Westmead and seven kilometres Greater Parramatta and the north–south from Carlingford to Lidcombe and Granville and Olympic Peninsula (GPOP) includes the strategic centres of Greater Parramatta and Sydney Olympic Park. The Parramatta River flows east through the heart of GPOP and the planned Parramatta Light Rail forms the GPOP spine.

Greater Sydney is defined as the 33 local government areas of Bayside, Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Burwood, Camden, Campbelltown, Canada Bay, Canterbury-Bankstown, Cumberland, Fairfield, Georges River, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Hunters Hill, Greater Sydney Inner West, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Liverpool, Mosman, Northern Beaches, North Sydney, Parramatta, Penrith, Randwick, Ryde, Strathfield, Sutherland, The City of Sydney, The Hills, Waverley, Willoughby, Wollondilly and Woollahra. NORTH DISTRICT 157

Term Draft District Plan definition

The Greater Sydney Dashboard will be an interactive web-based tool that will provide access to indicators for cross-District issues such as jobs and housing targets to assist decision-making. It will Greater Sydney Dashboard be used to gain insights from our collaborations and build on evidence already commissioned by various State agencies and councils. The Dashboard will also include a data store to assist decision-making and strategic planning.

Global Sydney is the combination of the Western, Central and Global Sydney Eastern Cities.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is a measure of the size of a country’s economy and productivity defined as the market value of all final goods and services produced in a country within a Gross Domestic Product given period of time. (Source: Regional Development Australia, Sydney Metropolitan Region Economic Baseline Assessment Update, Final, July, 2013)

Gross Value Added is the measure of the value of goods and Gross Value Added services in a particular area.

Health and education job categories are: Education; Health Care; and Social Assistance based on the Australian and New Zealand Health and education jobs Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) 2006 used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Health and education super precincts are important locations for knowledge-intensive jobs, innovation and service delivery. They Health and education super contain Greater Sydney's most important higher education and precincts specialist health institutions and are assets that create significant opportunity to drive economic prosperity and social wellbeing.

Greater Sydney’s 18 housing market areas are based on research by the City Futures Research Centre at the University of New Housing market areas South Wales that identified that approximately 82% of all household moves made in Greater Sydney are within 15 kilometres of their previous home.

Industrial job categories are: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing; Mining; Manufacturing; Electricity, Gas, Water and Waste Services; Wholesale Trade; and Transport, Postal and Warehousing Industrial jobs based on the Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) 2006 used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Knowledge-intensive job categories are: Information, Media and Telecommunications; Financial and Insurance Services; Rental, Hiring and Real Estate Services, Professional, Scientific and Knowledge-intensive jobs Technical Services; and Public Administration and Safety based on the Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) 2006 used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Local centres vary in size from a few shops on a corner to a vibrant Local centres main street. They are on a smaller scale than district centres and generally serve the local population.

A Local Environmental Plan (LEP) is a statutory spatial plan which comprises planning controls that are typically the main mechanism for determining the type and amount of development Local Environmental Plan that can occur on a parcel of land. In the Greater Sydney Region, LEPs can be made by the Minister for Planning or the Greater Sydney Commission. NORTH DISTRICT 158

Term Draft District Plan definition

The Metropolitan Rural Area is the non-urban area within the Greater Sydney Region. It includes rural towns and villages, farmland, floodplains, national parks and areas of wilderness. Rural towns and villages are distinct from urban areas in that they provide mainly for local growth needs, as distinct from the needs Metropolitan Rural Area of the broader Greater Sydney Region. The Metropolitan Rural Area creates a rural and bushland backdrop to Sydney and will be managed to balance local growth needs with environmental protection, resource management, agriculture, tourism and culture, research activity, military uses and community safety.

Parramatta City Parramatta City covers the central business district of Parramatta.

The planning controls are the combination of land use zones and development standards that control the use and built form of Planning controls development. Development standards may limit height, density, set back from the road or property boundary and lot size for development or subdivision.

The Priority Growth areas of Greater Sydney are identified by the NSW Government as major greenfield development areas. Priority Growth Areas Information about Priority Growth Areas is available on the Department of Planning and Environment’s website.

Priority Precincts are areas that the Minister for Planning considers have a wider social, economic or environmental significance for the community or have redevelopment potential on a scale that is important in implementing the State’s planning Priority Precincts objectives. Priority Precincts are envisaged as larger areas, usually made up of multiple land holdings, capable of delivering significant additional growth and requiring coordination from State and local government to realise their potential.

Population-serving job categories are: Retail Trade; Accommodation and Food Services; Arts and Recreation Services; Population-serving jobs Construction; and Other Services based on the Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) 2006 used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

A State Environmental Planning Policy is a statutory plan, typically prepared by the Department of Planning and Environment and State Environmental endorsed by the Minister for Planning. It can be a spatial plan for Planning Policy particular land in NSW, and/or it can set policy which applies to particular land or all land in NSW.

Strategic centres have one or more of the following characteristics: • a higher proportion of knowledge-economy jobs, principally relating to the presence of major hospitals, tertiary education institutions, stand-alone office development or a combination Strategic centres of these • the presence of existing or proposed major transport gateways • a major role in supporting the increased economic activity of the Eastern, Central or Western Cities. Strategic centres also tend to have over 20,000 jobs:

Sydney City includes the contiguous areas of Sydney CBD, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Pyrmont, The Bays Precinct, Sydney City Camperdown-Ultimo Health and Education, Central to Eveleigh, Surry Hills and Sydney East. NORTH DISTRICT 159

Term Draft District Plan definition

Transport gateways are locations with major ports or airports, and their surrounding precincts. They perform an essential and ongoing role to connect Sydney with locations across Australia Transport gateways and the world. Transport gateways are vital to Sydney’s prosperity and often support large concentrations of complementary business activity and employment.

The Urban Feasibility Model is a strategic planning tool developed by the Department of Planning and Environment which calculates Urban Feasibility Model the potential of an investigation area to deliver housing, based on planning and development controls and economic feasibility, framed by development costs and the local housing market.

The metropolis of three cities includes the emerging Western City focused on the proposed Western Sydney Airport. The Western Western City City will encompass the West and South West Districts and include the strategic centres of Penrith, Liverpool, Campbelltown- Macarthur and Blacktown (also associated with Central City). NORTH DISTRICT Copyright

This draft district plan was prepared by the Greater Sydney Commission. It contains information, data, documents, pages and images (“the material”) prepared by the Greater Sydney Commission (the Commission).

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The Commission cannot and does not make any claim as to the accuracy, authenticity, currency, completeness, reliability or suitability of any material supplied by third parties or linked to third party sites. The Commission will not accept liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense that you may incur as a result of the use of or reliance upon the material in the draft district plan or any linked sites. Please also note the material may change without notice and you should use the current material from the Commission’s website and not rely on material previously printed or stored by you.

Draft North District Plan November 2016 © State of New South Wales through the Greater Sydney Commission ISBN: 978-0-9954224-3-8