Today Planning Minister Frank Sartor released the draft Redfern Waterloo Built Environment Plan (stage one), proposing a significant new commercial centre and generous planning controls. The Property Council was given a briefing on the plans by the Redfern Waterloo Authority today.

The draft plans provide for up to 18,000 jobs in around 400,000 sq m of commercial floor space on sites clustered around Redfern railway station (one of Sydney’s busiest); up to 18-storey buildings, a new public plaza and a pedestrian link across the railway line are also proposed.

Sites across the 35 hectare Redfern Waterloo area have been identified for significant development uplift.

The area around the former “TNT towers” has been zoned for predominantly business uses, allowing development of up to 18 storeys. North and South Eveleigh have been earmarked for commercial development, including an “iconic building” of up to 16 storeys.

The bulk of new residential development, including up to 2000 new dwellings, is expected to occur in the areas distant from the railway station.

The Redfern Waterloo Authority is yet to release a contributions plan for the renewal area. The Redfern Waterloo Authority Act allows for the imposition of a flat percentage based levy, its quantum has not yet been finalised. The Property Council has warned against deterring development through high levies.

A State Environmental Planning Policy, including details such as floor space ratios, is expected to be released early next week.

The area known as “The Block” has the opportunity to be redeveloped as a mixed use precinct, with a focus on providing commercial, community as well as residential uses.

The Property Council is working with the Redfern Waterloo Authority to provide an effective mechanism to effectively disseminate information on the development plans to members. We will keep members informed of special briefings, site visits etc.

The draft Built Environment Plan and SEPP will be available for public comment until 7 April 2006.

Visit the Redfern Waterloo Authority website for more information.

• http://redfernwaterloo.nsw.gov.au/index.html

To view the Redfern Waterloo Authority Act visit the following website:

• http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/summarize/inforce/s/1/?TITLE=%22Redfern%26ndash%3BWaterloo%20Authority%20Act%202004%20No%20107%22&nohits=y