Advocating for local businesses

The proposed Mulgoa Road / Castlereagh Road upgrade aims to significantly enhance infrastructure in the region, particularly along Glenmore Park Way to Andrews Road. This development initiative includes plans to extend essential services beyond current industrial boundaries, widen roads to accommodate increased traffic, and bolster economic activity through heightened accessibility.

The urgency of accelerating these infrastructure improvements, especially with the impending airport development, underscores the need for consistent funding commitments from the NSW Government. Securing a stable funding profile until project completion is essential to ensure timely execution and maximise the region's economic potential.

In Penrith, there exists rezoned land with a pressing need to establish additional workplaces closer to residential areas. Accelerating the provision of essential services such as land access, water, electricity, internet connectivity, roads, and sewerage infrastructure is crucial to creating viable local work environments. This initiative aims to not only accommodate the growing demand for residential and commercial spaces but also enhance the economic vitality of the region.

The focus areas identified for immediate attention include:

1. Penrith’s Central Business District (CBD) 
2. Key transport corridors, where targeted infrastructure development can catalyse sustainable growth and community connectivity.

The Penrith community faces ongoing concerns regarding flood risks, prompting a critical evaluation of current planning controls. As housing demand rises and efforts to boost the visitor and nighttime economies gain momentum, there is a strong impetus to expand commercial and residential developments in the region.

However, it is essential to ensure that flood risk settings are accurately calibrated to protect investments and the community without allowing subjective perceptions of risk to hinder logical development decisions. Striking this balance is crucial for sustainable growth in Penrith, necessitating a thorough reassessment of flood planning strategies to mitigate risks effectively while fostering strategic development initiatives.

The Castlereagh Connection plays a pivotal role in securing our regional infrastructure and resilience. This arterial route not only provides a critical alternative access point to the M7 but also serves as a vital flood evacuation corridor. Enhancing and maintaining this connection is essential for bolstering regional connectivity and ensuring swift emergency response capabilities during times of crisis.

By investing in and prioritising the Castlereagh Connection, we reinforce our region's ability to navigate challenges effectively while sustaining long-term growth and development.

Rapid Bus
Timely implementation of the rapid bus transport plan from Penrith to the new Western Sydney Airport is essential to ensure Penrith’s future connectivity and growth of the visitor economy sector. Western Sydney residents will have the latest technology buses from day one of the airport starting operations.

St Marys Interchange Activation
St Marys will become an important transport interchange connecting the new Western Sydney Airport airport to the rest of Sydney and the surrounding area to the Metro service. Driving investment and development to the area as the town undergoes this transformative change is a once in a generation opportunity that must not be missed.

The digitalisation and activation of the CBD entail several strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing urban functionality and appeal. These efforts include providing free Wi-Fi access to residents and visitors, improving lighting infrastructure for enhanced safety and attraction, and implementing effective wayfinding systems to navigate and activate public spaces. By leveraging these advancements, the CBD can become a more vibrant and accessible hub, fostering community engagement, supporting local businesses, and attracting both residents and tourists alike.

We are calling for local government to relax restrictions on trading hours, allowing businesses to operate later into the evening. Additionally, there is a push for permissible use of existing building spaces and relaxed planning controls to facilitate the establishment and expansion of night time venues and activities. By creating a more conducive environment for nightlife, the CBD can boost economic activity, enhance cultural vibrancy, and attract a diverse range of visitors and residents looking to enjoy evening entertainment and services.

We strongly advocate for the continued development of the River Precinct to enhance its appeal as a premier visitor destination. This can be achieved by leveraging existing connections to the Mountains, CBD, rail, and Lakes, thereby creating a more integrated and accessible network.

Improving access to the river beyond the current routes of Wilson Lane and Blakey Road is a priority… should we explore the potential construction of a third bridge at Emu Heights? What about relocating the Paceway to open up new opportunities for space utilisation and visitor engagement? Our goal is continually elevate the River Precinct's attractiveness and functionality.

We’d like to see significant investments in sports infrastructure to bolster both the visitor economy and community health and wellbeing.

Upgrades to the Regatta Centre and Whitewater Stadium are essential to elevate these facilities to maintain international standards, attracting major sporting events and boosting tourism. Additionally, developing and enhancing regional sports venues will provide state-of-the-art facilities that encourage increased participation in sports and recreational activities among local residents and visitors alike.

These strategic investments will not only drive economic growth but also promote a healthier, more active community, making them a vital priority for the region.