Blacktown. UWS approval

The University of Western Sydney has received approval for a $10.5 million, two-story building with a 400-seat lecture theatre, 20 classrooms and associated amenities, on its Nirimba campus, at Quakers Hill.

Region. Focus on strengths

Key recommendation of an Urban Taskforce Australia report was the need to build upon the existing strengths of Western Sydney in the growing health and social assistance sector with a focus on Penrith, Westmead and Liverpool, and foster strong partnerships between government, the University of Western Sydney and business leaders to progress development of these key health and education precincts

Miller. $8 million makeover

The $8 million refurbishment of the Miller Shopping Centre will include a new name: Miller Central. The Private investors who purchased the business last year have appointed Savils to manage the property.

Prestons. Company wins road upgrade

Prestons company, Nace Civil Engineering and its parent Kypter, have won a major contract with the Roads and Maritime Services to upgrade Camden Valley Way from Denham Court Road to Raby Road. Nace is currently rebuilding and widening Bernera Road from Kurrajong Road to Camden Valley Way for Liverpool Council. The company, which moved its head office from Wetherill Park to Prestons in 1996, employs more than 200 people.

Liverpool. Showcasing world-class services

Liverpool Hospital, which is internationally renowned for its trauma service, hosted leading international trauma specialists for 20th annual South West Area Network (SWAN) Trauma Conference. "Not only is SWAN a chance for us to meet and learn from world leaders in the field of trauma, but it is an opportunity for Liverpool Hospital to showcase its world-class services," said Liverpool Hospital convener, Scott D'Amours.

Penrith. City's marketing plan

Penrith City Council has announced that its new marketing strategy will be developed from discussions with business organisations, educational institutions, tourism operators and any other stakeholders wanting to be involved. "The council, businesses and all the key stakeholders have to work together; that's integral to making us successful. We must look at investment opportunities to build the local economy," said Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce CEO, Jill Woods. Penrith mayor, Greg Davies said the Penrith is Here brand had been well received and should help Penrith to sell itself.

Region. Re-imaging the region

Western Sydney’s ability to attract investment, particularly, in certain employment sectors, such as, professional and financial services categories, may be impeded by certain perceptions and negative stereotypes of Western Sydney as an industrial region, said an Urban Taskforce Australia report, which recommended the re- the region to attract investment. “We advocate the minister for Western Sydney [Premier Barry O’Farrell] needs to be actively promoting the region – talking up Western Sydney whenever possible and spearheading the rebranding initiative,” the report said.

Penrith. Council wins top award

Composting 32,000 tonnes of food and garden organic waste and reducing waste to landfill by 5500 tonnes helped Penrith City Council win a top environment award. Council has taken home the Keep Australia Beautiful NSW Overall Sustainable Council Award for 2012 for its environmental plan, Sustainable Penrith – Working Towards a Sustainable City. Penrith beat Ryde City Council and North Sydney Council for the top award sponsored by Sydney Water.