Investing in better transport connections, activating arts and cultural precincts and revitalising the Parramatta River corridor and its connection to the CBD will be key to helping the Greater Parramatta and Olympic Peninsula (GPOP) realise its potential as the heart of global Sydney.
The City of Parramatta, Business Western Sydney, Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue and Western Sydney University today announced five immediate priorities for government investment in the region that will help unlock housing and jobs, better connect communities and cement Parramatta as a truly global city.
Speaking at GPOP!23 at Sydney Olympic Park today, City of Parramatta chief executive Gail Connolly said it was time for governments at both State and Federal level to stop talking about GPOP's potential and make the investment needed to turn it into a reality.
"What are waiting for? GPOP is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia and we all know what's needed to help it reach its potential - and it's not another glossy planning document, it's investment in the projects that matter," Ms Connolly said.
"The future for GPOP is now."
The five fast plays:
- Parramatta Light Rail Stage Two
- Extra stations for GPOP on the Sydney Metro West line
- A revitalised Parramatta River Corridor with a green and pedestrianised link between the river and Parramatta's CBD
- A restored Roxy Theatre to help anchor the arts and cultural precinct
- Acceleration of work on an Indigenous Centre of Excellence
Quotes attributable to City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Sameer Pandey:
"Parramatta is an economic powerhouse, growing fast and recognised as a unique destination in its own right. It's time to deliver on the investment priorities needed to meet the demands of our growing population and all who live, work and invest here."
Quotes attributable to Business Western Sydney executive director David Borger:
"Parramatta has been growing in leaps and bounds but its story is only just beginning. We need investment in our transport and cultural infrastructure to continue to ensure we fill in the missing pieces."
Quotes attributable to Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue chairman Christopher Brown:
"The city has done the hard yards in planning, major projects and development regulation to accommodate metropolitan growth, but it needs continued support if it is to carry the load as Sydney's second CBD. Great cities need great partnerships, and this targeted list of investment priorities will help Parramatta become more connected, more inclusive, more creative and more productive."
Quotes attributable to executive director of WSU's Centre for Western Sydney Professor Andy Marks:
"Like the world's best cities, Parramatta thrives when its knowledge hubs are connected. Accelerating the delivery of planned transport links and civic infrastructure will unlock that potential."
