The proposed third stage of Walker Corporation’s Appin development will mean a $10 million infrastructure windfall for the local community.
The Macquariedale Road rezoning, currently on public exhibition, is much smaller than Appin Valley, but Walker Corp says it will have a considerable impact on the creation of jobs and viability of local businesses, increasing support for sporting and community groups while delivering vital upgrades to infrastructure.
If Wollondilly Council gives Macquariedale Road the green light, Walker Corp will invest $1.2 million on Gordon Lewis Oval, $700,000 for new cycle paths, $2.1 million for undergrounding and overhead power lines, as well as landscaping the main street in front of the shops and parts of Macquariedale Road and $2.5 million for intersection improvements along Appin Road.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“We have worked with the Appin community over many years, amending our plans to align with the community’s desire to maintain Appin’s rural character,’’ says Mr Gerry Beasley, executive planner at Walker Corporation.[/social_quote]
“As a result, the next stage of the project has been re-designed so that 70 per cent of homes are on traditional 700 square metre lots.
“In response to community concerns, we have also commenced the restoration of the historic Appin Inn on Appin Road at a cost of $1.2 million.
“Works are now well under way on this project with the exterior planned for completion early this year. When completed the Inn will be surrounded by a landscape garden and period fencing,’’ he said.
Walker Corp says it is conscious of environmental impacts and has conducted detailed flora and fauna surveys as well as interviews with residents living close to the site.
“As a result of these surveys we are dedicating two thirds of our Appin site as environmental conservation land, preserving the main bushland corridor along Ousedale Creek and committing 54 hectares to conservation, including the funding of permanent maintenance,’’ says Mr Beasley.
“In addition, we are providing up to $500,000 for Wollondilly Council to use towards Appin based environmental projects that could include koala conservation.
“Because of the Appin Valley development we were able to support the establishment of the first general practice clinic in Appin and since then we have seen more businesses open in the local shopping centre, including a significant investment by IGA.’’
If Macquariedale Road is approved, Walker has also committed up to $2.5 million for community projects, such as apprentice training, aged care and supporting local groups such as the Historical Society and sporting associations.
“Our first and second stages at Appin proved popular because people have experienced the business and community benefits that come with the addition of new housing, making Appin an even greater place to live,’’ Mr Beasley said.
“With increased investment in infrastructure, community facilities and the preservation of the natural environment, Appin will only keep improving.
“We are confident the community will benefit greatly from this next stage and we hope that it is supported by Wollondilly Council,’’ he said.
And wildlife habitat loss that can’t be measured in $
Shame