Science Park leading the way

Friday, 18 March 2016

Australia’s first dedicated Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) park is a step closer after being given the community’s tick of approval for rezoning.

Council received 30 submissions during the public exhibition of the Sydney Science Park at Luddenham and minor changes have been made to the final proposal.

"The 287-hectare park will be a leading international centre for research and development in the food, energy and health sectors," Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown said.

"It would be an Australian first and would compete with science, research and technology parks worldwide. It will help attract scientists and skilled workers that would not otherwise be attracted to Australia.   

"Some 12,000 high quality jobs will be created just 20 minutes away from the Penrith City centre with this development, along with quality residential, educational and retail offerings.

"Council will continue its vigorous advocacy to ensure the necessary and appropriate infrastructure is provided by other levels of government to service the science park and Western Sydney Airport - in particular rail, to ensure this development is everything we envision and more.

"The Science Park is a significant investment in the region and will importantly also be a catalyst for the Broader Western Sydney Employment Area (BWSEA), which adjoins the proposed Western Sydney Airport," Councillor McKeown said.

"The Science Park is exactly the kind of development we need for a strong future economy with jobs for our residents and the region as a whole.

"This community approval of the Sydney Science Park planning proposal brings us one step closer to realising our vision to bring high quality knowledge jobs to the heart of Western Sydney.

"However, the park, BWSEA, airport and the region need to be connected efficiently. Council will continue to lobby the State Government to commit to funding a rail link connecting the airport site with the Western line, able to service the Science Park precinct.

"Planning for the South West Rail Link extension to Bringelly is currently being undertaken, but Council believes this does not go far enough. We need the link to the airport and BWSEA to the Western Line from day one.

"We want our City to thrive on smart growth and innovation. Sydney Science Park will provide a range of innovative employment and education opportunities not previously offered in Western Sydney."

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Friday, 18 March 2016.