Malek Fahd Islamic School, located at 20 Mungerie Road in Beaumont Hills, has submitted a proposal for a transformative redevelopment of its facilities estimated at $123 million. This significant upgrade, lodged with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure on 4 October 2024, seeks to expand the school’s capacity to cater to growing community needs. Specifically, the project will increase the student population from 704 to 1,300, add an Early Learning Centre, and increase staff numbers to 124. The redevelopment also aims to modernise infrastructure to align with contemporary teaching practices.
Key Features of the Proposed Development
The project encompasses several key upgrades and additions to the campus:
- Modern Educational Facilities: Construction of a two-storey primary school building, separate boys’ and girls’ secondary schools, a library, and a three-storey prayer hall.
- Enhanced Infrastructure: Introduction of a new internal road network, a basement parking facility with 147 spaces, and a reconfiguration of above-ground parking.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The development incorporates energy-efficient designs and aims for a 4-star Green Star rating, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Together, these features will significantly improve the learning environment and ensure the school remains a vital educational resource for the region.
Architectural rendering by Gran Associates
Current Site Context and Surroundings
The school occupies a 4.066-hectare site zoned as R2 Low Density Residential under The Hills Local Environmental Plan 2019. Currently, the campus consists of single-storey and double-storey buildings, demountable classrooms, and outdoor recreational areas.
The site is situated in a predominantly residential area, bordered by medium-density housing to the north and low-density housing to the south and east. Meanwhile, conservation land lies to the west. The redevelopment seeks to blend seamlessly into this environment, preserving the character of the neighbourhood while upgrading the school’s facilities.
Addressing Community and Environmental Concerns
Traffic and Parking Improvements
To address traffic congestion during peak school hours, the project includes a new internal road network and additional parking. These improvements will provide 147 spaces in a new basement parking area, along with 40 reconfigured above-ground spaces. As a result, on-street parking demands will decrease significantly. Furthermore, the design complies with Transport for NSW guidelines to enhance safety and accessibility.
Tree Removal and Landscaping
Although the project involves the removal of 133 trees, it compensates for this by planting 90 new native species. Over time, these additions will ensure 20% canopy coverage across the site. In addition, the new greenery will serve as a natural privacy buffer for neighbouring properties, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Noise and Vibration Management
Construction activities and operational noise will be managed carefully to comply with regulations. Acoustic treatments for buildings and strategic placement of recreational areas will minimise noise impact on surrounding residents. Moreover, vehicle movements and use of public address systems will follow strict noise guidelines.
Visual Impact Mitigation
The project’s architectural design incorporates generous setbacks and landscaping to reduce its visual impact. The proposed buildings will complement the existing residential area while maintaining a low to medium visual profile. A visual impact assessment confirmed the development’s design aligns with the aesthetic of the neighbourhood.
Flood and Water Management
Stormwater detention systems are a key part of the redevelopment plan. These systems are designed to manage runoff effectively and reduce downstream flooding risks. In doing so, the project aligns with The Hills Development Control Plan 2012 and water-sensitive urban design principles.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
The school’s redevelopment prioritises sustainability by integrating energy-efficient systems, renewable energy solutions, and eco-friendly building materials. These initiatives support the NSW Government’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and ensure the campus remains environmentally responsible for decades to come.
Community Engagement and Stakeholder Input
Extensive consultations have been conducted to address community concerns and incorporate feedback into the development plan. Stakeholders such as The Hills Shire Council, Transport for NSW, and Aboriginal groups provided input, influencing key aspects of the design. As a result, the project includes measures to reduce traffic impact, mitigate noise, and enhance environmental protection.
Economic and Social Benefits
Job Creation
The redevelopment will create 80–120 construction jobs during the build phase. Once operational, the school will employ 124 staff members, up from the current 41.
Improved Education Facilities
State-of-the-art classrooms, dedicated recreational areas, and upgraded amenities will support innovative teaching methods and provide students with a modern learning environment.
Community Integration
The redevelopment strengthens the school’s role as a community asset. By providing flexible spaces and incorporating sustainability practices, the project ensures long-term benefits for both the school and its neighbours.
Planning and Legislative Framework
The project qualifies as a State Significant Development (SSD) under State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021 due to its estimated cost of $123.6 million. It adheres to the zoning requirements of The Hills Local Environmental Plan 2019 and supports the broader objectives of enhancing local infrastructure. Furthermore, the proposal aligns with state and regional strategies for education and community development.
Project Team and Roles
The redevelopment involves a skilled team of specialists:
- Developer: Malek Fahd Islamic School Limited
- Urban Planner: Willowtree Planning Pty Ltd
- Architects: Gran Associates
- Traffic Consultants: TTPA
- Environmental and Sustainability Consultants: Erbas
- Biodiversity Experts: Narla Environmental
- Social Impact Assessment and Engagement: HillPDA
For more information, search the application number SSD-56264716 on The Hills Shire Council’s website.
