NSW announces ‘bold vision’ for Olympic Park

Sydney Olympic Park has languished for more than two decades since its glory days, but a bold new masterplan aims to transform it into one of the city’s most vibrant urban areas.

Since the 2000 Olympics, the area has seen little use outside of major events. That will change, the state said, under the NSW Government’s Master Plan 2050, which sets out a vision for a vibrant urban neighbourhood.

The plan aims to increase the current population from 5,250 to more than 30,000 over the next 25 years, with the addition of 10,000 homes designed to cater for families, essential workers and people downsizing.

Property Council of Australia chief executive Anita Hugo welcomed the plan, saying increasing housing supply was essential for housing affordability amid the ongoing housing crisis.

“This masterplan has the potential to transform Sydney Olympic Park into a vibrant mixed-use precinct that can help solve Sydney’s growing housing problem,” she said.

“Sydney Olympic Park is well positioned to deliver more homes close to jobs, transport and services.

“This can be a critical step toward creating a balanced community with a variety of housing options, public spaces and amenities that meet the needs of future residents.”

To create a “live, work and play” environment, the plan proposes a mix of high-density apartments near transport hubs, mid-rise residential buildings and low-density buildings near parkland.

The master plan will add new retail, dining and entertainment options to the development, bringing year-round activity to the area.

There are plans to build a main street next to the metro station with street-side shops, new bars and eateries.

It will include a cultural hub inspired by Melbourne’s Federation Square, renowned for its mix of galleries, events and open public spaces, to host arts and community events.

In terms of green space, one of the area’s largest parking lots will be transformed into parkland, creating spaces for “outdoor adventure” with sports fields, playgrounds and trails to open along nearby water corridors.

Inspired by the transformation of Cockatoo Island, a former convict settlement and shipyard, the Minns Government plans to transform Newington Armory – a historic naval base on the Parramatta River – into a tourism destination with markets, festivals and campsites.

Taking into account population growth and new amenities, Sydney Olympic Park will be designed to be “car-light”, prioritizing pedestrian pathways, dedicated cycle lanes and public transport via the Parramatta Metro and Light Rail.

Master Plan 2050, open for public consultation until November 25, also prioritizes employment growth and aims to create up to 32,000 jobs in the area.

NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully said it was an “exciting new phase” in the park’s development, laying the foundation for decades of development.

However, residents of nearby Wentworth Point, where about 15,000 people live in high-rise apartments, have expressed concern.

Many are reported to feel like “second-class citizens” due to the lack of a public park and light rail service delays despite the area’s density.