Parramatta. Brakes on light rail project

Infrastructure NSW report has put the brakes on Parramatta City Council’s proposed light rail network around Parramatta and says connections between western and central Sydney are a greater priority. But rather than invest in the $9.5 billion project, the report recommends “an immediate solution is the ongoing enhancement of bus services” along existing roads.

Region. Infrastructure NSW report

Infrastructure NSW recommended the construction of the WestConnex, 33-kilometre motorway to integrate the M4 extension from Parramatta towards the airport, with an expansion of the M5 East. Preserving Badgerys Creek as a site for a second airport is recommended. The report also recommends not going ahead with the Epping to Parramatta rail link in favour of a fast bus network, preserving a rail corridor for Western Sydney Freight Line, a site for Eastern Creek Intermodal Terminal, assessing passenger travel options at RAAF Base Richmond, and express train services between Sydney and Parramatta. Premier Barry O’Farrell said the government would give its response to the report by the end. of the year.

Parramatta. DA for $13 million project

Wallaroo Properties Pty Ltd has lodge a DA with Parramatta City Council for the demolition, construction of a 13 storey mixed use development comprising of 49 dwellings, retention of heritage item, provision of a cafe on the ground floor with 3 levels of basement carparking and strata subdivision. The site is occupied by Barnaby’s restaurant. The estimated cost of the work: $13 million.

Parramatta. Light rail connection

Parramatta city Council has proposed a network of light rail routes radiating out from the CBD to Castle Hill, Bankstown, Strathfield and Epping. Chris Johnson. CEO, of the Urban Taskforce said the network should be linked to the City of Sydney network by using Parramatta Road as a light rail corridor.

Penrith. Over 27,000 people at Expo

The Parramatta-based Caravan and Camping Industry Association of NSW (CCIA), organisers of the Penrith Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo , reported that over 27,000 people attended the Penrith Expo over a weekend last month at the Penrith Panthers Exhibition Centre – the strongest in years. Lyndel Gray, CCIA CEO said the success of the Expo would have a positive impact on the domestic holiday market.