City of Parramatta leads the way with fast-tracked planning program

City of Parramatta Council has launched a new program to help fast-track the City’s shovel-ready projects and stimulate NSW’s economy as it recovers from the COVID-19 crisis.

Council’s Prioritisation Assessment Program is one of the first to be rolled out across NSW, following an invitation from the NSW Government to prioritise Development Applications and Planning Proposals for projects that will generate significant local jobs and economic growth.

“As Sydney’s Central River City and Australia’s fifth largest economy, Parramatta is in a unique position to lead Sydney’s economic recovery,” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer said.

“Council has developed an important new program to enable the early delivery of shovel-ready projects in our great City to help Parramatta lead the way out of COVID-19.”

To be considered under Council's Prioritisation Assessment Program, Development Applications and Planning Proposals will be required to address a range of criteria, including: the ability to create jobs before and after construction, generate a level of investment or consumer expenditure in the City, and meet required timeframes.

Council will continue to follow its regular assessment processes under the existing legislative framework and consult with the community in the normal manner.

“This program is not about taking short cuts or cutting corners, but reprioritising existing Council resources to help eligible shovel-ready projects progress at an accelerated rate, while continuing to follow due process and boost public benefits,” Cr Dwyer said.

City of Parramatta Council CEO Brett Newman said the program, developed with the support of the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, focuses on driving investment in major local projects and community infrastructure.

“We anticipate that the program will focus on a small number of priority projects that will drive long-term employment options in our City, while contributing to services for the wider public,” Mr Newman said.

Council recently collaborated with the NSW Government to accelerate the finalisation of several major Planning Proposals, and will continue to work together to support the new program.

“We share the same broad goal: to drive investment in Western Sydney, create jobs, and ensure the economy bounces back as quickly as possible from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Newman said.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes welcomed the efforts by City of Parramatta Council to drive economic investment and job creation.

“Our economic recovery from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic requires a concerted push from all levels of government to help NSW get back on its feet,” Mr Stokes said.

“This is a great example of a council taking up the challenge and working in lockstep with the NSW Government to get great outcomes for their local area and the state.”

For details of the eligibility criteria and how to apply to have your Development Application or Planning Proposal considered for accelerated assessment, please visit cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/prioritisation-assessment-program