A revised Orchard Hills Stage 1 rezoning proposal is now on public exhibition following changes based on extensive community and stakeholder feedback.
The updated rezoning plan will cover 155 hectares of the 350 hectares previously exhibited and will unlock up to 5,700 new homes and 2,100 jobs near the future metro station.
It focuses on development around the new Orchard Hills Metro Station, supporting future transport links to Bradfield, Western Sydney International Airport, and St Marys.
The revised proposal concentrates development in the town centre and near the Metro station. It reduces potential property acquisitions through updated street designs and removes "The Vines" estate from the rezoning.
This rezoning will leverage major investments in the Western Sydney Airport line of the Sydney Metro to unlock more well-located homes in an area of high demand in Western Sydney.
Key features of the revised Stage 1 proposal include:
- Building heights of between 2 and 25 storeys.
- 23 hectares of new retail, commercial and employment space.
- Almost 20 hectares of open spaces, including parks, sporting fields, and civic spaces.
- A new town centre around the Orchard Hills Metro Station that will provide shops, services, and vibrant public spaces and entertainment options.
- Improved transport links including roads, cycleways and walkways
- Space for a multi-purpose community hub (at least 2,400sqm) that could include creative spaces and a library.
- Protection of the natural environment and waterways.
The NSW Government is leading this rezoning under the State Significant Rezoning Policy, given the strategic location of Orchard Hills, near Penrith CBD, St Marys, Western Sydney Aerotropolis, Bradfield and the new Western Sydney International Airport.
The original 2024 Rezoning Proposal and Structure Plan was exhibited for 14 weeks between October 2024 and February 2025 and received 716 submissions.
The revised Stage 1 proposal is now on exhibition until Friday, 1 May 2026. The community is also invited to register for a drop-in information session. For more information and to have your say, visit NSW Planning.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:
"We've listened carefully to the community's feedback on the original proposal and this updated plan delivers housing and jobs for Orchard Hills while protecting the area's waterways and biodiversity.
"The Stage 1 Orchard Hills Rezoning Proposal is a major milestone for Western Sydney, which will pave the way for a vibrant, urban community around the future Metro Station.
"The proposal will enable the delivery of approximately 5,700 new homes and 2,100 jobs, supported by a new town centre with shops, services, entertainment, and public spaces."
