Land purchases account for $43m of $63m sydney funding

LAND purchases will account for almost three-quarters of a $63 million spending package to build schools, roads and emergency services across Western Sydney.

The new funding deal announced by the NSW Government targets infrastructure projects in Sydney’s north and south-west growth areas like road upgrades and land for a new fire station.

The money is coming from developers under the Western Sydney Growth Areas Special Infrastructure Contributions program, of which $43m will be spent on land.

NSW Premier Chris Minns says Western Sydney “is growing fast” and wants to ensure the infrastructure keeps up.

“We’re not going to leave families waiting a decade for the basics like the former government; we’re delivering these schools, hospitals, roads and public transport right now,” he says.

Planning Minister Paul Scully says the funding will fast-track critical infrastructure projects.

“We’re acting now to ensure new homes come with the roads, schools and essential services that our communities expect and deserve.”

Acting Minister for Western Sydney, Courtney Houssos says that for “too long” Western Sydney has had its “fair share of housing” built but not the infrastructure to support it.

MP for Riverstone Warren Kirby says: “By investing in local schools, roads and emergency services, we’re making sure the Riverstone community has fair access to critical infrastructure.”

MP for Leppington Nathan Hagarty welcomes the spending to secure land around Leppington and the South West.