Strategic Planning Policy in Sydney: Heading in the right direction?

The recent change of government in NSW has resulted in significant policy changes for accommodating growth and new development in the Sydney region. The previous focus on urban consolidation with new development only planned in targeted growth centres has now moved towards a 'more balanced' approach. Current policy provides for more development in new fringe areas along with reduced redevelopment at higher densities in inner areas. This paper analyses the rationale and likely outcomes of the current approach to strategic planning in Sydney. A brief review of metropolitan planning in Sydney is presented and the reasons behind policy changes are examined. The focus of the research is an analysis of the likely impacts of the latest changes and current initiatives within the context of the recognised need to plan for climate change and sustainability. The ecological, social and economic impacts of this change in direction in Sydney's planning policy are explored. The analysis also considers some underlying historical and cultural factors influencing strategic planning in Sydney. The role of planning in the current climate of private property rights, public participation issues and development pressures is discussed. The paper concludes with some policy and governance implications for guiding the future growth and development of Sydney. These are presented alongside the factors apparently influencing planning policy in this city