The currently dormant industrial
site will be given new life as part of $1.3 billion development of 62,000m2
of commercial floor space, and 92,000m2 of affordable
residential, springs up over the next five to seven years. In tandem with the
redevelopment the existing heritage sites will be given the makeover they’ve
been waiting for and used in a commercial means. The Carriage Works that has
existed at the site for over a year is just one example of its potential,
though it has already sparked problems with existing residents because of
traffic and parking issues.
Before the redevelopment takes
place there are some lingering issues that are yet to be addressed, including
issues with access and the inevitable influx of traffic that will accompany the
site. Despite its close proximity to Redfern Station, swelling of the local
population from the site, as well as the revamping of Sydney University,
will lead to an increase of traffic flow into the area that was not wholly
addressed at the consultation.
The main access roads of
Cleveland, Shepherd, Lawson and Abercrombie streets will need to be given
serious attention if the proposed plans go ahead. As well as residents, the
proposed commercial sight, which includes a 16-story tower, will see large
numbers of cars entering the area on a daily basis. One study that was
undertaken suggested that only 30 per cent of commuters to the area would use
public transport. An upgrade to Redfern Station and four-metre wide footbridge
to link the north and south sides might help.
The plans include a plaza linking the residential and
commercial sections, as well as a local market, intended for the existing
blacksmith shop. Though the development is still at the concept stage, it has
had Cabinet approval. Only those who accept the plan in its current form will
have the chance to make it a reality with all the money from the site being
retained by the RWA.
Source:
South Sydney Herald June 2008 www.southsydneyherald.com.au