Ku-ring-gai Council have released four alternative housing scenarios for Roseville, Lindfield, Killara, and Gordon stations. These scenarios are slated to deliver the same level of housing as the NSW Government’s Transport Oriented Development (TOD) policy.

In an Extraordinary Meeting on the 30th of October, Council came together to vote to publicly exhibit the scenarios. Earlier in May, Council resolved to prepare these alternative scenarios and reconvene once completed.

Ku-ring-gai Council are seeking community consultation on the scenarios, which are available for feedback until the 17th of December 2024.

The first scenario is the existing NSW Government TODs, which allows for six storey apartment buildings within 400 metres of the aforementioned stations.

The first alternate scenario is Scenario 2a “Safeguard and Intensify”. Under this scenario, 78% of Heritage Conversation Areas will be protected from apartment zonings. In some areas, the NSW Government TOD policies will be adhered to, though apartment buildings will be subject to new planning controls that ensure buildings are less dense than the NSW controls.

In Scenario 2b “Minor Amendment to Existing NSW Government Controls”, 31% of heritage conservation areas will be protected, including areas like the block around Killara Lawn Tennis Club. NSW Government controls will be retained, though the outer boundary of the 400-metre radius will be protected.

Scenario 3a “Preserve and Intensify” is the third option. All heritage areas within the 400-metre radius will be protected from high-rise development, and apartment building will be permitted in non-heritage zones.

Scenario 3b “Preserve, Intensify and Expand” is largely similar to 3a. It differs, however, by limiting heights in town centres, and protecting Gordon east of the station, as it is a possible heritage conservation area.

All scenarios cater for around 23,200 new homes in Ku-ring-gai over the next 15 years.

‘The release of the scenarios is a sign that Ku-ring-gai is willing to do its bit to support housing supply, but in a way which is responsive to our unique local area,’ says Ku-ring-gai Mayor Kay. ‘It is also an opportunity for the local community and key stakeholders to be actively involved in planning decisions that directly affect them. This is how planning should take place.’

The scenarios, and Council’s overall concern, are in keeping with Ku-ring-gai natural tree canopy.

To provide feedback to Ku-ring-gai Council on the scenarios, visit www.krg.nsw.gov.au/housingfeedback