A significant mixed-use development, valued at over $800 million, is being planned for Sydney Science Park at 565-601 and 601A Luddenham Road, Luddenham, NSW. Developers have now applied for Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs), marking the first step in securing approval for a State Significant Development (SSD) in Western Sydney. If approved, this project will establish a knowledge-based innovation precinct near the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport.
At this stage, no formal Development Application (DA) has been lodged. Instead, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will now review the SEARs request and issue assessment requirements. These requirements will guide the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The developers must complete this process before submitting a formal DA.
The proposed Sydney Science Park is part of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, a key growth area designed to support employment, housing, and infrastructure near the new airport. This project will include commercial, residential, and educational spaces, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability.
What is SEARs and Why Does It Matter?
The SEARs application plays a crucial role in the planning process. It ensures that environmental, social, and economic factors receive proper consideration before a project advances. The NSW Department of Planning will evaluate the scale, location, and potential impacts of the proposal and then issue guidelines for the required Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
The EIS must include:
- Traffic and transport assessments to determine how the development will integrate with Luddenham Metro Station
- Infrastructure planning, including road networks, drainage systems, and essential services
- Environmental impact studies focusing on water management, biodiversity, and flood risks
- Economic and social impact reports to assess job creation, housing supply, and business growth
- Community consultation to allow stakeholders and residents to provide feedback
Once developers complete the EIS, they can proceed with a formal Development Application. The public will then have an opportunity to review the DA and provide input during the exhibition phase.
Sydney Science Park Proposal: Key Features
The SEARs application outlines a large-scale development plan that includes:
- A Concept Plan, establishing the overall vision for the site
- Stage 1 Development, which includes land subdivision, infrastructure works, and landscaping
Key Elements of the Proposal
- Total site area: 296.89 hectares
- Subdivision: 10 lots (nine development lots and one open space lot)
- Infrastructure upgrades: New roads, drainage, and utility connections
- Transport links: Improved pedestrian and cyclist access to Luddenham Metro Station
- Public spaces: Parks, landscaped areas, and community spaces
The Sydney Science Park site is strategically located 3km north of the Western Sydney International Airport, within the Western Sydney Aerotropolis Northern Gateway Precinct. It benefits from planned infrastructure projects, including the Sydney Metro Western Sydney Airport Line.
Who is Involved in the Project?
The Sydney Science Park project is led by Celestino Developments SSP Pty Limited. Several urban planners, architects, engineers, and environmental specialists are also contributing to the project.
- Developer: Celestino Developments SSP Pty Limited
- Urban Planning Consultant: Willowtree Planning Pty Ltd
- Architectural and Urban Design: SJB Architects
- Engineering and Civil Works: Enspire Solutions
- Transport and Traffic Consulting: JMT Consulting
- Environmental and Biodiversity Assessment: Eco Logical Australia
- Heritage Consulting: Kelleher Nightingale Consulting
- Flood and Water Management: Northrop Consulting Engineers
- Infrastructure Planning: Orion Group
- Development Cost Estimation: Mitchell Brandtman
- Indigenous Engagement and Cultural Design: Yerrabingin
Why Is This Development Important?
The Sydney Science Park supports the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, a major growth area transforming the Western Parkland City. The project aligns with several key government planning strategies, including:
- Greater Sydney Region Plan – Enhancing economic opportunities and liveability in Western Sydney
- Western City District Plan – Creating new jobs, infrastructure, and housing
- Western Sydney Aerotropolis Plan 2020 – Establishing a hub for innovation, research, and enterprise
- Future Transport Strategy 2056 – Leveraging the Sydney Metro Western Sydney Airport Line for better connectivity
If approved, Sydney Science Park will be one of the first major developments within the Aerotropolis, accelerating economic transformation in the region.
Key Infrastructure and Environmental Considerations
The SEARs application highlights several critical areas that must be assessed in the EIS, including:
1. Transport and Connectivity
- Luddenham Road upgrades, including a new signalised intersection
- Enhanced public transport integration, particularly with Luddenham Metro Station
- Improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure
2. Water and Environmental Management
- Flood mitigation strategies to manage stormwater runoff
- Recycled water systems for irrigation and landscape maintenance
3. Biodiversity and Green Space
- Protection of riparian corridors and native habitats
- Expansion of green spaces with native plantings
4. Construction and Staging
- Site remediation and earthworks to prepare for development
- Staged construction phases to align with government-led infrastructure projects
Next Steps in the Approval Process
With the SEARs application now under review, the following steps will take place:
- Issuance of SEARs – The NSW Department of Planning will release the environmental assessment requirements.
- EIS Preparation – Developers will conduct detailed impact studies and engage with the community.
- Public Exhibition and Feedback – The proposal will be open for community consultation before a final decision is made.
At this stage, no formal approval has been granted. The project must complete a detailed environmental and planning assessment before advancing further.
Conclusion
Developers have applied for SEARs, marking the first step toward securing approval for Sydney Science Park. If approved, this project will become a key part of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, delivering new jobs, infrastructure, and commercial opportunities near the Western Sydney International Airport.
The public will have opportunities to provide feedback once the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is complete.
For more details, search Application Number SSD-78774218 on the NSW Planning Portal: Sydney Science Park SSD-1.
