Parramatta. Commission now part of DOP

The Parramatta-based Growth Centres Commission is now part of the Department of Planning. The first development in Sydney’s growth centres kicked off this month with major civil works starting at Oran Park Town, the NSW Government has rezoned over 5000 new lots in the North Kellyville precinct. Draft precinct plans for 15,000 lots in Riverstone and Alex Avenue in Sydney’s northwest growth area are on exhibition for public comment until 6 February 2009.

Region. DOP has focus on the west

The Department of Planning is looking at new technology jobs and business parks, as well as offices and retail employment in existing centres. “My department has until March 2009 to come back to me with an update on the draft subregional strategies, and plans for new jobs and new types of jobs for Western Sydney. The Western Sydney Hub, located at the intersection of the M4 and M7 motorways, is already turning into a major employment centre,” said the Minister for Planning Kristina Keneally.