For some years now the NSW Government has envisioned Westmead as a priority growth area and health and innovation precinct. At Shelter NSW we follow the development of these precincts carefully – always asking how more and better affordable and social housing will be a feature, especially given the scale of development and opportunity presented.
 
In recent years, Cumberland Council has responded with a Draft Masterplan and then more recently with the  Westmead South Planning Proposal (WSPP).

The WSPP is forecast to generate over 6,600 dwellings and 44,620m2 of non-residential GFA, close to the existing Westmead train and Metro station (under construction).
 
Shelter NSW CEO John Engeler recently addressed Cumberland City Council’s Local Planning Panel (Council) raising an objection to Council’s planning proposal.
 
The WSPP proposes five Key Sites where bonus height and density might apply, close to job opportunities (a key consideration for affordable housing).
 
While Shelter NSW welcomes the requirement that any affordable housing be held in perpetuity for key workers; we noted with concern, the limited scope, if any, for an affordable housing levy on three of the five key sites.
 
As proposed, development applications lodged on affordable housing key sites within 12 months from the gazettal of the Westmead South LEP (AHCS) will  not require any affordable housing contribution.
 
John Engeler, pointed to the generous height and FSR, which has the potential to be gifted on those particular affordable housing key sites within the precinct without any public benefit to the local community in return.
 
Shelter NSW notes that the WSPP was approved by Council on 2 April 2024 and will write directly to the Department of Planning about our concerns ahead of any gateway determination of the WSPP.

Source: https://haveyoursay.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/westmead-south-masterplan-2023