Are priority precincts the solution to housing affordability

Are priority precincts the solution to housing affordability?The NSW Government will tackle housing affordability with a priority precincts program around new railway lines, says NSW Minister for Planning and Housing, Anthony Roberts.With a record $22 billion pipeline of residential construction underway – or 78,400 homes – the NSW Government is tackling supply and housing affordability, Roberts says.The government’s $73.3 billion investment in transport over the next four years “offers an opportunity to look at how we can provide more homes along modernised transport corridors in priority precincts in greenfield and established areas,” he says.Eleven areas, predominantly around rail stations, have been reserved as “priority precincts”, including the Sydney Metro NorthWest stations of Bella Vista and Showground. But more are coming.The minister, who is expected to launch a housing affordability package of policies ahead of the mid-year state budget, says an “enhanced” public transport network promises to catalyse urban renewal, increase density, create new communities and boost housing affordability.”Increasing the supply of housing around transport hubs will assist in our quest to make housing more affordable,” Roberts explains.”Releasing more land for housing will mean Sydneysiders have access to a range of homes that suit different needs, budgets and lifestyle choices. This also helps affordability.”The NSW Government recently updated the minimum lot sizes for semi-detached dwellings in priority growth areas to improve housing choice. “Older people, families with children, singles and couples all need and deserve greater choice in housing.”While he remains tightlipped on a proposed rent-to-buy scheme, which would make it easier for renters to purchase their own homes over time, Robert says “coordinated strategic planning and design guidelines” are essential to meet the state’s growing population.”The long-term strategic planning in priority precincts around railway stations offers the chance to revitalise areas around those stations with renewed town centres, new homes, cafes, restaurants, shops and open space close to services.”Future growth will be supported by new and upgraded infrastructure, including community facilities, parks and schools that will support the incoming population as well as benefiting the broader community. “It is our aim to ensure the public reaps the benefits of this growth by also providing more jobs close to where people live, with better transport, improved community services and facilities, great open spaces and better pedestrian and cycling links.”Minister for Planning Anthony Roberts will be speaking at a Property Council business lunch on 7 April, and will explore his three priorities: housing affordability, efficient planning and regional sustainability. Book today.