A major $280 million mixed-use development has been proposed for Leppington Town Centre, located at 173 and 183 Rickard Road, Leppington. Lodged by Aland in November 2024, the application is now open for public exhibition through Camden Council. The development aims to create a vibrant civic and commercial hub at the doorstep of Leppington Railway Station, thereby contributing to the area’s ongoing urban transformation.
Overview of the Proposal
The proposal seeks to deliver a mixed-use precinct that integrates retail, hospitality, and public spaces into a cohesive civic centre. Specifically, the development includes:
- A four-storey retail shopping centre with 40,270 square metres of gross floor area, offering supermarkets, specialty retail outlets, entertainment facilities such as a cinema, and food and beverage spaces.
- A six-storey hotel with 176 guest rooms, a rooftop pool, gym, and function spaces, as well as ground-floor retail and dining amenities.
- Landscaping and public domain upgrades, including pedestrian pathways, tree planting, and landscaped plazas to enhance the streetscape.
- Parking facilities, providing 1,394 spaces for retail and hotel visitors, along with dedicated spaces for bicycles and motorcycles.
The design aligns with the Leppington Town Centre Indicative Layout Plan (ILP), which highlights the site as a focal point for urban and economic activity. Furthermore, it complements existing infrastructure by improving accessibility and enhancing the area’s appeal.
Architectural rendering by DKO
History of the Site
The site, spanning approximately 3.2 hectares, has historically been used for rural and agricultural purposes. It currently features two single-storey dwellings and open grassland, which will be cleared to prepare for the proposed redevelopment.
Since the establishment of Leppington Railway Station in 2015, the area has undergone significant transformation. Consequently, the rezoning of this site under the Western Sydney Growth Area plans positioned it as a future urban hub. This development builds on that vision, leveraging the site’s proximity to key infrastructure and transport networks.
Site Details and Redevelopment
The project includes several components to prepare the site and integrate it into the surrounding urban fabric:
- Demolition and Earthworks: The proposal involves removing existing structures and vegetation. Additionally, bulk earthworks will be conducted to level the site for construction.
- Subdivision: The site will be divided into three lots, accommodating the retail shopping centre, hotel, and commercial spaces.
- Public Infrastructure: Road upgrades, including a new intersection at Byron and Rickard Roads, are planned to improve access. Public spaces will feature seating, lighting, and pathways to encourage pedestrian-friendly environments.
Design Principles
The architectural design, led by DKO Architects, prioritises sustainability, public engagement, and seamless integration with the urban environment. The following features exemplify these principles:
- Active Street Frontages: Retail outlets and pedestrian pathways at street level encourage interaction and community engagement.
- Sustainability Measures: Rooftop gardens and vertical greenery enhance aesthetics while reducing the development’s environmental footprint.
- Integration with Surroundings: The layout aligns with the Leppington Town Centre master plan, ensuring connectivity to nearby transport hubs, schools, and residential areas.
Regulatory Compliance
The development complies with key local and state planning frameworks, including:
- State Environmental Planning Policy (Western Parkland City) Precincts 2021 (WPC SEPP), ensuring alignment with Western Sydney’s strategic growth objectives.
- Camden Growth Centre Precincts Development Control Plan (DCP), meeting zoning, height, and floor space requirements.
- Environmental Standards: Contamination, noise, and traffic impact assessments have been completed, and mitigation measures are included to address potential concerns. The site’s biodiversity-certified status ensures adherence to ecological standards.
Economic and Community Impact
The project is expected to:
- Boost Employment: Create 1,655 jobs during construction and 274 permanent jobs upon completion.
- Enhance the Local Economy: Attract visitors and businesses to Leppington, further solidifying its position as a key regional hub.
- Provide Community Amenities: Offer enhanced retail, hospitality, and leisure options for residents and visitors alike.
In addition, the landscaped plazas and improved pedestrian pathways will foster social interaction and strengthen connections within the community.
Public Participation
The development application is currently open for public exhibition. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review the plans and provide feedback to Camden Council. Public input will be considered to refine the project and ensure it aligns with community needs.
Project Team
- Developer: Aland
- Urban Planner: Urbis
- Architect: DKO Architects
- Traffic Consultant: Urbis (Transport Division)
- Environmental Assessors: ECS Group (Contamination), EcoLogical Australia (Biodiversity), Sturt Noble (Landscaping)
- Acoustic Consultant: Acouras
For further details or to provide feedback, search application number DA 2024/615/1 on Camden Council’s website.
