The Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure has approved the Westmead Innovation Quarter Stage 3 (Westmead iQ3). Located at 1 Farmhouse Road, Westmead, the $180 million development is the final stage of the Western Sydney University (WSU) Westmead precinct. Lodged under State Significant Development Application (SSD) number SSD-65614712, the project will bring a purpose-built build-to-rent (BTR) mixed-use building to one of Greater Sydney’s key growth centres. This landmark project, a collaboration between Western Sydney University and Charter Hall, aims to address housing supply challenges while creating a vibrant, community-focused precinct.
Overview of the Approved Development
Westmead iQ3 will be a 15-storey mixed-use building that combines residential, retail, and public spaces. It will feature 244 build-to-rent apartments, designed to offer long-term tenancy options with professional onsite management and shared communal spaces. The ground floor will include retail spaces and a gym, creating an activated streetscape that enhances community engagement. The development will also include landscaped communal areas, such as a central courtyard and rooftop terraces.
Designed by Architectus, the building seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, completing the final phase of the Westmead Innovation Quarter. This precinct is already recognised as a hub for health, education, and research, with its proximity to Westmead Hospital, Westmead Railway Station, and the future Sydney Metro West station reinforcing its strategic importance. Public domain improvements, such as shaded seating areas, landscaped open spaces, and pedestrian-friendly pathways, reflect the precinct’s broader vision of liveability and urban renewal.
Artist impression by Architectus
Key Features of the Development
- Residential Units: 244 build-to-rent apartments offering flexible leasing options, shared amenities, and long-term tenancy security. This BTR model, relatively new in Australia, ensures professional onsite management to enhance resident experience.
- Retail and Gym Spaces: Ground-floor retail spaces and a gym, which will activate the streetscape and cater to both residents and visitors.
- Public Domain Enhancements: A central landscaped courtyard, granite-paved seating areas, and rooftop communal spaces at Levels 2 and 14.
- Sustainability Features: Advanced energy-efficient design, integrated stormwater management, and façade planting that enhances thermal performance and aesthetics.
The development’s location within the broader Westmead Innovation Quarter highlights its unique ability to support urban renewal while contributing to a much-needed increase in housing supply. With strong transport links and a focus on sustainable design, Westmead iQ3 exemplifies transit-oriented development that aligns with local and state planning strategies.
Approval Process
The project underwent a rigorous approval process as a State Significant Development (SSD) under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure coordinated the process to ensure compliance with environmental, social, and economic standards.
- Application Lodgement: The application, prepared by urban planning consultants Ethos Urban, was lodged in July 2024. The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) addressed potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures.
- Public Exhibition: The application was exhibited on the Major Projects NSW portal, enabling community members to provide feedback.
- Stakeholder Consultation: Extensive consultation occurred with Parramatta Council, local groups, and Aboriginal representatives. Feedback helped refine the design, particularly public domain elements.
- Assessment Report: The Department’s assessment confirmed the development aligned with strategic plans, complied with relevant planning controls, and addressed community concerns. Approval was granted with conditions to manage construction and operational impacts.
Artist impression by Architectus
Community Engagement
Community feedback played a crucial role in shaping the development. Residents, businesses, and other stakeholders raised several concerns during the consultation process.
- Traffic and Accessibility: Residents expressed concerns about potential traffic congestion during construction and operation. To address this, the developers introduced a Construction Traffic Management Plan and a Green Travel Plan that prioritise sustainable transport options.
- Noise and Vibration: Feedback highlighted concerns about construction noise. The Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment informed strategies to mitigate these impacts.
- Environmental Concerns: The removal of 13 trees onsite raised environmental questions. In response, the project includes replanting and incorporates landscaped communal spaces to offset this loss.
- Population Density: Some stakeholders worried about the area’s changing character. To address this, the design prioritises community-focused enhancements, including accessible public spaces and retail offerings to improve local vibrancy.
This engagement ensured the project responded to community needs while delivering broader public benefits.
Reasons for Approval
Several factors contributed to the Department’s decision to approve the development:
- Strategic Alignment: The project supports state and federal housing strategies, including the National Housing Accord 2022 and the Greater Sydney Region Plan – A Metropolis of Three Cities. It contributes to addressing the housing supply shortfall while integrating with the existing precinct.
- Design Excellence: The building’s design reflects Architectus’ attention to quality and detail. It incorporates high-quality materials and layouts that enhance liveability, while the landscaped public domain promotes a pedestrian-friendly environment.
- Economic Contributions: The project will create 179 construction jobs and 13 operational roles, generating significant economic benefits for the local area.
- Sustainability Commitments: Energy-efficient systems, stormwater management, and façade planting reflect strong commitments to sustainable development.
- Transit-Oriented Location: Its position near major transport hubs, including the Westmead Railway Station and future Sydney Metro West, ensures accessibility and reduces reliance on private vehicles.
Public Domain and Landscaping
Public spaces are a defining feature of this development. Landscaping consultants Oculus designed the communal areas to create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors. Features include a central courtyard with granite and concrete paving, shaded seating areas, and rooftop terraces on Level 14. Façade planting enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal while reducing heat absorption, contributing to the project’s sustainability.
These enhancements align with the broader goals of the Westmead Innovation Quarter, prioritising liveability and encouraging community interaction.
Project Team
- PTC: Traffic and Transport Consultants
- Oculus: Landscape Architect
- Architectus: Architect
- Ethos Urban: Urban Planner
- Charter Hall: Developer
- Western Sydney University: Developer
For more information, search the application number SSD-65614712 on the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure’s website.
