The Macarthur Gardens North rezoning proposal is now on public exhibition, with Landcom pushing for taller buildings and more housing in Campbelltown. The plan seeks to increase density while guaranteeing a portion of homes for affordable housing. The exhibition runs from 11 March to 7 April 2025, with full details available on the NSW Planning Portal: Macarthur Gardens North Rezoning Proposal.
A Growing Urban Precinct
Macarthur Gardens North is located on Goldsmith Avenue, Campbelltown, next to Macarthur Train Station. The site is close to key amenities, including Macarthur Square Shopping Centre, Western Sydney University, and Campbelltown TAFE.
An approved concept masterplan already allows 1,250 dwellings with buildings up to 32 metres (9 storeys). The new proposal seeks to increase this to 1,625 dwellings, adding 375 more homes. A minimum of 10% (162 dwellings) will be affordable housing.
The plan also proposes a change in building height limits, with some buildings reaching 85 metres (24 storeys) to support higher-density development. Additionally, land along Bow Bowing Creek Reserve will be rezoned as RE1 Public Recreation, ensuring it remains public open space. This aligns with a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) between Landcom and Campbelltown City Council.
Artist impression by Urbis
Government Backing for Housing Growth
The NSW Government has identified South-West Sydney as a priority area for new housing, with Campbelltown playing a central role in delivering increased supply. The Macarthur Gardens North proposal aligns with state-level housing objectives, including the More Affordable Homes on Track for Campbelltown initiative, which aims to fast-track developments that address housing affordability and urban renewal.
The Minister for Planning and Public Spaces has reinforced the government’s support for transit-oriented housing, stating:
“We need to prioritise well-located housing that supports jobs, transport, and community services. Macarthur Gardens North is a prime example of how we can deliver more homes where people need them most.”
The proposal qualifies for the NSW Government’s accelerated rezoning pathway, introduced in May 2024, which speeds up approvals for projects that include social and affordable housing.
Aligning with State and Local Plans
The proposal supports several strategic planning policies, including:
- The Greater Sydney Region Plan
- Western City District Plan
- Greater Macarthur Growth Area Structure Plan 2022
- Re-imagining Campbelltown Masterplan 2020
As a transit-oriented development (TOD), Macarthur Gardens North encourages public transport use, reduces reliance on cars, and supports walkability and sustainable urban growth. With Macarthur Train Station next door, future residents will have direct rail connections to Sydney CBD, Parramatta, and the Western Sydney Airport.
Technical Considerations and Assessments
Before submission, Landcom engaged with Campbelltown City Council, Transport for NSW (TfNSW), and the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure (DPHI) to assess potential impacts.
A Traffic and Transport Assessment confirmed that existing road networks can handle the increased density, with provisions made to improve pedestrian and public transport connections.
A Biodiversity Compliance Study found no significant environmental impact from increased building heights, while a Flood Compliance Assessment confirmed the site meets all flood risk management requirements.
The plan also follows Development near Rail Corridors and Busy Roads guidelines, ensuring noise mitigation measures are in place.
A Mixed-Use, Transit-Oriented Future
Macarthur Gardens North is designed as a high-density, mixed-use precinct, with residential towers, retail spaces, and public areas. The masterplan includes open spaces, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and ground-floor activation, ensuring the development integrates with the surrounding urban landscape.
The Mayor of Campbelltown welcomed the proposal’s focus on density and affordability, stating:
“Campbelltown is growing fast, and we need well-planned housing solutions. This proposal provides new homes while improving infrastructure, public spaces, and transport connections.”
Project Team
The rezoning proposal was prepared by Urbis on behalf of Landcom, with input from:
- Urban Design & Visual Impact Assessment: Urbis
- Traffic & Transport Assessment: SCT Consulting
- Community Needs Assessment: Urbis
- Noise Impact Statement: Renzo Tonin & Associates
- Utilities Report: IDC Consulting
- Preliminary Engagement Report: WSP
- Revised Site-Specific Development Control Plan: Urbis
- Biodiversity Compliance Assessment: EcoLogical
- Flood Compliance Assessment: J. Wyndham Prince
What Happens Next?
The Macarthur Gardens North rezoning proposal is on public exhibition until 7 April 2025. Residents, businesses, and stakeholders are encouraged to review the details and provide feedback through the NSW Planning Portal.
If approved, the proposal will allow higher-density housing and mixed-use development near Macarthur Station, creating a walkable, transit-connected community. Following public consultation, the Gateway determination process will refine and assess the plan before final approval.
For more information or to make a submission, visit: Macarthur Gardens North Rezoning Proposal.
