The demand for infrastructure is already stretched in Wollondilly, with developers in Wilton struggling to access essential services such as water, waste water and roads so that houses can be built, says Mayor Matt Gould.
“This is what is holding up housing delivery in our shire and there is a real risk that the development at Appin may further slow delivery in Wilton as the two growth areas compete for limited infrastructure funds.
“Any growth at Appin will face similar challenges, such as its current lack of a water infrastructure plan, and these needs have to be addressed early.’’
His comments are part of a renewed council push to get a guarantee on the provision of enabling infrastructure and an assurance on bushfire safety to support the state-led Appin growth area.
It comes in the wake of the NSW Government’s decision in December to accelerate rezoning of Appin for 13,000 additional homes on land owned by Walker Corporation.
Council says its position is that housing development in Appin is premature without a fully funded, binding infrastructure delivery plan linked to the delivery of housing.
Council has now written to NSW Premier Chris Minns, minister for Western Sydney Prue Carr, minister for planning and public spaces Paul Scully and federal minister for environment and water Tanya Plibersek reiterating its position on the rezoning and calling for a commitment to infrastructure.
“Wollondilly is meeting and exceeding our housing targets, has ample zoned land in Wilton ready to support the NSW Government’s push for more housing,’’ says Mayor Gould.
“Council remains firm in the view that given the enormity of the infrastructure gaps in both growth areas any development in Appin should occur after Wilton and not before 2036, unless binding funds to fully meet the infrastructure needs of both areas can be guaranteed.’’
