This key planning document will help Parkwood be a “seamless cross-border experience” for its future residents. Image: File.
The draft version of a major planning document is bringing a taste of Canberra interstate – but it’s not locked in yet.
Parkwood is the NSW component of Riverview Developments’ proposed Ginninderry cross-border development, being delivered in conjunction with the ACT Government.
While Parkwood is located in Yass Valley, it can only be accessed by road through the ACT and is being designed to be an integrated community with ACT-style service delivery.
The NSW and ACT governments and Yass Valley Council (YVC) previously signed a ‘Parkwood Protocol’ agreement that will ensure residents have access to necessary services and infrastructure to live comfortably.
Yass councillors briefly discussed the development at a recent meeting, where they agreed to consult with the community over the project’s Development Control Plan (DCP).
A DCP is developed by councils and provides planning and design guidelines for a set area.
During the meeting, a YVC staff member told councillors that the DCP, once finalised, would be used to assess development applications (DA).
“This is a really important next step for Parkwood … We can properly apply the standards appropriate to this development, to make sure it’s a seamless cross-border experience.”
Mayor Jasmin Jones sought advice from council staff on what the consultation process will involve.
A staff member said the three landholders within the Parkwood area have indicated support for the draft DCP and encouraged other people to make a submission.
“[That process] allows the public to have their thoughts and have their say in how this important development precinct will be considered within the Yass Valley Council legislative and policy framework,” the staff member said.
According to the draft document, released with the council’s meeting papers, Parkwood residents will live in single dwellings, townhouses or mixed-use buildings.
It outlines the requirements (such as lot sizes, road setbacks and parking requirements) for each of those categories.
“The underlying principle is designing a 20-minute place whereby every home has a variety of amenities within 20 minutes of home, accessible by active transport,” the document said.
The document also outlines that cul-de-sacs should be avoided where possible and that all residential developments should provide a rainwater tank.
Local streets will be built in a modified grid pattern (accommodating bus stops, cycle networks and a possible extension of Canberra’s light rail), while some areas will feature car share spaces.
“The key consideration is to ensure walking and cycling is the most enjoyable, safe and convenient form of transport to meet a range of needs of the community,” the draft document said.
“Public transport will be offered to create connectivity beyond the walkable (or cyclable) catchment.
“Pedestrian, cycling and vehicular connections to existing and proposed commercial areas, open space and community facilities should be provided at each stage.”
Meanwhile, the draft DCP also states that a subdivision should be designed to minimise the amount of cut and fill works required for each lot.
It also outlines requirements around telecommunications and other utilities, sewerage infrastructure and sustainable elements, such as rooftop solar.
In a statement to Region, a spokesperson for Riverview Projects said this was the latest step in preparing the Parkwood development.
“The Ginninderry Joint Venture views the DCP as a continuation of the Parkwood land rezoning in 2020,” they said.
“If approved, there is potential to enable the addition of 5000 homes in Parkwood, NSW, to the housing supply in the region.”
Once the public exhibition period finishes, Yass councillors will receive a report on the community’s feedback.
People can have their say through the council’s online Your Voice Counts platform, while the full draft DCP is available via the council’s website.
