Science Park leading the way

Thursday, 23 July 2015

Penrith Council has welcomed the NSW State Government’s announcement that plans for the 250ha Sydney Science Park at Luddenham will soon be on public exhibition.

"The Sydney Science Park will be a leading international centre for research and development in the food, energy and health sectors," said Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM. 

"Along with quality residential, educational and retail offerings this development will realise a total of 12,000 'smart' jobs and represents significant investment in the region just 20 minutes from Penrith's City Centre."

"The Science Park will also be a catalyst for the Broader Western Sydney Employment Area (BWSEA), which adjoins the airport site at Badgerys Creek," Councillor Fowler said.

"Our vision is for Penrith to be at the centre of an innovation hub, as Western Sydney becomes the home for new and emerging industries related to research, education and technology. The Science Park's proponents recognise this is where the talent is - Western Sydney is no longer the bastion of blue collar workers in manufacturing and logistics, our people have the skills and are looking for jobs close to where they live.

"The Science Park is exactly the kind of development we need in a strong future economy, full of opportunities for our residents, and all those who live within the catchment of our regional city."

Cr Fowler said Council had worked closely with the applicants throughout the process, and would continue to do so to ensure their vision can become reality.

"We have received excellent support from Penrith City Council and look forward to continued collaboration as we deliver this next-generation project," Celestino Chief Executive Officer John Vassallo said.

"Today's announcement brings us one step closer to realising our dream of bringing the knowledge jobs of the future to the heart of Western Sydney. Our vision and commitment is to build one of the world's leading centres for science and innovation right here in Penrith," Mr Vassallo said. 

Having previously endorsed the proposal to begin a 'gateway' process through the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure, Council will now facilitate the consultation phase of the development.

Council will also 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.

"Transport for NSW is currently planning for the South West Rail Link extension to Bringelly. We believe this does not go far enough - the airport and BWSEA should be connected to the Western Line from day one of operation," Cr Fowler said.

"Embedding the airport in Western Sydney through connections by road and rail is crucial to the airport's viability and to deliver maximum benefits for the region's community."

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Thursday, 23 July 2015.