Parramatta. John's new Neish

John Neish, former GM, of Parramatta City Council, will take up his appointment as the new executive director, of National Trust of Australia (NSW), on August 25. “John brings to the National Trust 25 years’ experience spanning the private, not for profit and local government sectors, and a deep commitment to the view that economic prosperity is integrally linked to heritage, social and environmental values. John was general manager, of Parramatta City Council, from 2003-2008, and during his tenure was instrumental in developing Parramatta as a dynamic cultural, heritage and economic precinct, steering the city’s ascendancy as Sydney’s second CBD,” said president, Dr Zeny Edwards.

Region. WSROC wants rail extension

WSROC president, Tony Hay, has welcomed the renewed commitment by the State Government to complete the North West Metro by 2017 but urged that the route be extended to connect with the Richmond Line at Vineyard. He was speaking after the recent consultation by the Ministry of Transport with local government, business and community leaders on planning and construction issues with the planned line, which will run for 38 kilometres from the CBD to Rouse Hill via Epping and Castle Hill. The first stage (Hills Centre to Epping) is scheduled to open by 2015 with the full line in operation by 2017.

Granville. Premier supports project

Premier Morris Iemma has thrown his support behind what he described as “a bold plan to return Granville town centre to its former place as a hub for small business and community”. He told the Parramatta Sun that the Government would provide a range of assistance to the council including forming a working group with the Cities Taskforce, in the Department of Planning, assisting with planning for the site next to the railway station, investigating commuter parking, alleviating traffic congestion and improving access to the town centre