Friday, 04 May 2012

Local residents are being invited to have their say on future plans for local growth, homes and jobs over the next 20 years.

NSW Premier and Member for Ku-ring-gai Barry O'Farrell and Member for Davidson Jonathan O'Dea said the NSW Government had released a discussion paper on the key principles to underpin a new 20-year Metropolitan Strategy and encouraged the community’s input.

“This is the community’s opportunity to ensure its views on the future of our part of Sydney’s unique suburbs are reflected in the Metropolitan Strategy,” Mr O’Farrell said.

“As our community is only too aware, the former Labor Government’s planning processes were a shambles and it did not provide appropriate infrastructure to support population growth.

“The NSW Government is calling for fresh ideas with the 20-year Metropolitan Strategy discussion paper.

“For the first time, the Metropolitan Strategy will be aligned with the State Infrastructure Strategy and Transport Master Plan to ensure a whole of Government approach to Sydney’s future.”

Jonathan O'Dea highlighted the impact of Sydney's growing population.

“With Sydney’s expected population to reach 5.6 million by 2031 it is critical that we get the appropriate housing, infrastructure and transport plans in place. Local residents deserve the best that Sydney can offer – and not just limp along as we all did under the former Labor government," Mr O'Dea said.

“Residents can also be assured that unlike Labor’s plans that sat on shelves and collected dust, the NSW Government’s plans will be actioned and delivered. So whether you’re concerned about housing, jobs close to home, accessing roads or public transport, making sure the environment is protected and that your children have the best possible future, I encourage you to have your say to ensureour suburbs flourish into the future.

 The paper can be viewed online at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au or at www.planning.nsw.gov.au. Submissions close on Friday 29 June and all viewpoints will be considered by the NSW Government