One of Sydney’s oldest and most significant transport routes, Parramatta Road, is to be revamped. This major project will involve all Councils along the 23 kilometre stretch from The Broadway in Sydney to Church Street in Parramatta. The Parramatta Road 2000 and Beyond project is a partnership involving the Councils, State Government and key community groups.
The Project will tackle issues which need to be addressed to maintain the road as a viable transport route, as well as protect the interests of residents, businesses and others affected by the road’s usage.
New planning and design guidelines are to be developed aimed at reducing pollution, protecting heritage sites, providing aesthetic improvements and improving traffic management for pedestrians and vehicles alike.
Agenda 21 with its emphasis on ecological sustainability has been adopted as the framework for the project. The Inner Metropolitan Regional Organisation of Councils (IMROC) is a key player in the strategy.
Councillor Monica Sheehan, President of IMROC and Chair of the Parramatta Road Steering Committee, said the aim of the strategy is to revitalise Parramatta Road through the coordinated efforts of the State Government, Councils and the community.
The State Government has provided $150,000 to IMROC to kickstart the process. In developing a strategy plan, it will look at a preferred future character for the road. Issues to be addressed include traffic, urban design, landscaping, economic development, cycling facilities and pollution.
Local character will be preserved by dividing the road into three ‘regions’ for the purpose of the project.
A draft document detailing urban design themes for the three zones is expected to be released in September. This will provide a framework for developing controls and guidelines for the renewal of the existing infrastructure.
For further information contact John Sharpe, telephone (02) 9265 9439.
