AGENDA

Governance Committee Meeting

13 August 2024

You are hereby notified that a Governance Committee Meeting of Liverpool City Council will be held at Liverpool Civic Place, 11.08 BOARDROOM WIRRIGA (GOANNA) LEVEL 11, 50 Scott Street, Liverpool NSW 2170 on Tuesday, 13 August 2024 commencing at 1.00pm.

Please note this meeting is closed to the public. The minutes will be submitted to the next Council meeting.

If you have any enquiries, please contact Council and Executive Services on 8711 7441.

Order of Business

PAGE                                                                                                                         TAB

Opening

Apologies

Declarations of Interest

Infrastructure and Planning Committee

ITEM 01          Transport Project Investment Pipeline including, Projects completed in the last 2 years, Projects in planning, projects in design, projects in delivery, projects approved but unfunded                                                                                              4                                                                                              1

ITEM 02          Voluntary Planning Agreement Status Report - July 2024                                                                                            16                                                                                              2

ITEM 03          Mayoral Minute: Liverpool Innovation Precinct                                                                                            33                                                                                              3

Budget Committee

NIL

Strategic Priorities Committee

ITEM 04          Amendments to Council Venue HIre Policies                                                                                            73                                                                                              4

ITEM 05          Library Collection Development Policy                                                                                            78                                                                                              5

Strategic Performance Committee

NIL

Presentations by Councillors

Close

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Governance Committee Meeting

13 August 2024

Infrastructure and Planning Committee Report

ITEM 01

Transport Project Investment Pipeline including, Projects completed in the last 2 years, Projects in planning, projects in design, projects in delivery, projects approved but unfunded

Strategic Objective	Evolving, Prosperous, Innovative Promote and deliver an innovative, thriving and internationally recognised city
File Ref	168173.2024
Report By	Patrick Bastawrous - Team Leader Transport Management Stella Qu - Transport Planner John Lac - Manager Infrastructure Delivery Scott Sidhom - Acting Manager City Design and Public Domain
Approved By	Daniel Riley - Manager Development Engineering

Executive Summary

Council received a request from the Mayor’s Office to provide an up-to-date source of information relating to all Road Projects being planned, designed and constructed.

The planning, design and construction phases of each project are managed by separate departments across Council.  As such, Staff are compiling the relevant information into a ‘Road Project Pipeline’ master file to provide an overview of the project pipeline.

The purpose of this report is to provide a progress update and a current snapshot of the road project database. The longer term intent is to develop this content into a quarterly report to the Council Governance Committee.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee meeting:

1. Receives and notes the Report.

2.   Provides any initial feedback

REPORT

Council has an ongoing pipeline of Road Projects that are being planned, designed and constructed. The purpose of this report is to track the status of these projects and provide an overview of the whole project pipeline.

The various phases of these projects are managed by multiple departments across Council. Staff are currently compiling the relevant information into a ‘Road Project Pipeline’ master file that could ultimately form the basis of quarterly reporting to the CGM.

As requested by the Mayor’s Office, the intent of this report is to provide an update on this work and a current snapshot of the database.

Inclusions.

The ‘Road Projects Pipeline’ is being compiled to articulate the following information:

·  List of Projects (i.e. Location and Description of works)

·  Reason for the Project (i.e. MP Request, Councillor Request, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) Request, etc.)

·  Source of Funding for each phase of the project (i.e. Capital/Operating Budget, Developer Contributions, Grant Funding, etc.)

·  Estimated cost of works

·  Current allocated funds

·  Council Department Responsible (i.e. Traffic and Transport Planning, Survey and Civil Engineering Design, Civil Projects Delivery, etc.)

·  Status of the project (i.e. awaiting TfNSW approval, 80% concept design, tender documents issued, etc)

Once all relevant information is populated, the intention is to organise the ‘Road Projects Pipeline’ into a list of projects, as follows:

·  In the Queue 

·  Currently being planned

·  Currently being designed

·  Currently being constructed

·  Completed (Within the last 2 years)

Attached is a Work in Progress (WIP) copy of the ‘Road Projects Pipeline’ master file.

Exclusions

It is noted that there are road projects identified in Council’s various contribution plans that are yet to be included in this pipeline. Work is underway to establish additional resourcing to assist in progressing these projects into the pipeline. Once this has occurred, these projects will be added to the ‘Road Projects Pipeline’.

In addition, there are other road projects being delivered by others within the Liverpool Local Government Area (LGA) as follows:

·  Road projects being delivered by Private Developers (as part of their conditions of consent). These have been excluded from the scope of this report and will not be included in this master file. However, they are being captured in Council’s Land Development Database.

·  Road projects being delivered by the NSW Government (as part of State-led projects) are not currently included in the master file. These will be included as the document is further developed.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications relating to this recommendation. The Road Projects Pipeline Master File aims to improve financial transparency within Council.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	Deliver and maintain a range of transport related infrastructure such as footpaths, bus shelters and bikeways. Provide efficient parking for the City Centre. Deliver a high quality local road system including provision and maintenance of infrastructure and management of traffic issues.
Environment	Promote an integrated and user friendly public transport service. Support the delivery of a range of transport options.
Social	There are no social and cultural considerations.
Civic Leadership	Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes. Actively advocate for federal and state government support, funding and services.
Legislative	S138 Roads Act, Australian Road Design Guidelines (AusRoads), TfNSW Technical Manuals
Risk	There is no risk associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1.         LCC Road Project Pipeline - Work In Progress

2.         LCC Road Project Pipeline - Mapping

7
ITEM 01	Transport Project Investment Pipeline including, Projects completed in the last 2 years, Projects in planning, projects in design, projects in delivery, projects approved but unfunded
Attachment 1	LCC Road Project Pipeline - Work In Progress

1
ITEM 01	Transport Project Investment Pipeline including, Projects completed in the last 2 years, Projects in planning, projects in design, projects in delivery, projects approved but unfunded
Attachment 2	LCC Road Project Pipeline - Mapping

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Governance Committee Meeting

13 August 2024

Infrastructure and Planning Committee Report

ITEM 02

Voluntary Planning Agreement Status Report - July 2024

Strategic Objective	Visionary, Leading, Responsible Demonstrate a high standard of transparency and accountability through a comprehensive governance framework
File Ref	171976.2024
Report By	Rouzbeh Loghmani - Coordinator Contributions Planning
Approved By	Lina Kakish - Director Planning & Compliance

Executive Summary

The purpose of this Report is to provide a quarterly summary of activity associated with Voluntary Planning Agreements (VPAs) which are either executed or still under negotiation.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Committee receives and notes this Report.

REPORT

Attachment 1 of this Report provides a status update of Voluntary Planning Agreements (VPAs) up to 30 July 2024. The list currently includes:

·  One (1) VPA Letter of Offer;

·  Three (3) VPAs in draft and/or under negotiation;

·  22 executed VPAs; and

·  10 completed VPAs.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications relating to this recommendation.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	There are no economic considerations associated with this Report.
Environment	There are no environmental considerations associated with this Report.
Social	There are no social and/or cultural considerations associated with this Report.
Civic Leadership	Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision-making processes. Deliver services that are customer focused. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.
Legislative	Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021
Risk	There is no risk associated with this Report.

ATTACHMENTS

1.         VPA Status Report to Council as at 30 July 2024

1
ITEM 02	Voluntary Planning Agreement Status Report - July 2024
Attachment 1	VPA Status Report to Council as at 30 July 2024

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Governance Committee Meeting

13 August 2024

Infrastructure and Planning Committee Report

ITEM 03

Mayoral Minute: Liverpool Innovation Precinct

Strategic Objective	Liveable, Sustainable, Resilient Deliver effective and efficient planning and high-quality design to provide best outcomes for a growing city
File Ref	051966.2024
Report By	Joshua Walters - Acting Senior Urban Designer
Approved By	Shayne Mallard - Director City Futures

Executive Summary

At its ordinary meeting held on 28 June 2023, Council resolved to prepare a report to support the development of Liverpool Innovation Precinct (LIP) that includes land use reforms and place making opportunities to be brought back to Council.

Subsequently, City Design and Public Domain (CDPD) and Strategic Planning teams have prepared a joint report which outlines Council’s existing measures and recommendations that support the development of the Liverpool Innovation Precinct, including opportunities for placemaking projects and planning amendments.

Urban Design and Strategic Planning acknowledge the importance of Liverpool Innovation Precinct as more than just a physical precinct within the Liverpool City Centre, as a catalyst for economic growth and social transformation that nurtures innovation and attracts industry leaders for the advancement of the wider Liverpool Community.

In this regard, Urban Design are advocating several priority projects to be fast tracked within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct, and Strategic Planning are proposing to amend some LEP controls in relation to the city centre as part of the LEP review process.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee meeting:

1.   Receives and notes this report;

2.   Investigates and prioritises the delivery of:

a)    Master Plan projects identified to be fast-tracked within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct;

b)    CBD Signage Strategy developed as part of Council’s FY 24/25 budget;

c)    CBD Signage implementation as part of Council’s FY 25/26 budget;

d)    Deliver additional street tree plantings along Elizabeth and George Streets as part of Council’s FY 24/25 Budget;

e)    Explore implementation of multi-function poles and banners in the Liverpool Innovation Precinct as part of Council’s FY 24/25 budget; and

f)     Advocate for key investment from the State Government which will be a catalyst for private investment.

REport

Background

On 28 June 2023, Council resolved the following:

“That Council:

1.   Commend Lance Chia and David Borger for the success of the Liverpool Innovation Precinct and in particular the successful development and launch of the Investment Prospectus.

2.   Council prepares a report to support the development of Liverpool Innovation Precinct that includes land use reforms and place making opportunities to be brought back to a Council Meeting in the first quarter of 2024”

The Liverpool Innovation Precinct is a unique collaboration of 10 major stakeholders in the city of Liverpool who have come together to advocate for, and support public and private sector investment in the area.

Launched by NSW Treasurer, the Hon Daniel Mookhey MLC, on June 8, 2023, the Liverpool Innovation Precinct Investment Prospectus showcased Liverpool’s capabilities in health, education, research, and innovation, which aimed to attract people and investment into the precinct and the broader city centre.

Urban Design and Strategic Planning teams have prepared this report in response to the above resolution. This report proposes changes to the Liverpool City Centre through various planning and placemaking opportunities to assist in attracting more people, businesses, and investment to the Liverpool Innovation Precinct.

This report outlines measures currently being undertaken by Council and recommends several placemaking and planning opportunities which will further support the growth and development of the LIP. This includes opportunities which will help integrate the LIP within the broader city centre, encourage more development and uplift the quality of the public spaces to create a more desirable, liveable, and purposeful precinct that attracts more people and investment into the area.

A map of the Liverpool Innovation Precinct can be found below.

Map 1. Boundary of the LIP

Urban Design and Placemaking Context:

The proposed Liverpool Innovation Precinct (LIP) forms part of the larger Liverpool City Centre and encapsulates approximately two-thirds of the entire Liverpool CBD. The character of LIP is as diverse as the city centre itself with a multitude of functions, users, and stakeholder interests. This renders a complex urban environment that has been shaped through various plans, policies, strategies, and guidelines that inform placemaking opportunities and help guide development outcomes within the city centre.

Council’s CDPD team continue to undertake an urban design and placemaking led approach towards reshaping the functionality and character of the city centre. The two key Council documents that guide placemaking opportunities in the Liverpool CBD are:

1. Liverpool City Centre Public Domain Master Plan (The Master Plan)

The Master Plan is a ten-year plan of public domain improvements (placemaking projects) within the Liverpool City Centre, aimed at enhancing the character of the CBD. The Master Plan aligns with Council’s Community Strategic Plan (CSP) by establishing a realistic vision of a desirable, liveable, and functional city centre that will indirectly support the growth and development of the LIP.

The Master Plan acknowledges the potential for the city centre to establish itself as Sydney’s third CBD, the capital of the South West and the gateway city to the future Western Sydney (Nancy-Bird Walton) International Airport and Aerotropolis (Bradfield). The Master Plan proposes seven key directions for the embellishment of public space within the Liverpool City Centre, which are:

·    Improved Streets.

·    Activated Serviceways / Laneways.

·    Improved Gateways.

·    Increased and Improved Carparking.

·    New and Upgraded Open Spaces.

·    Improved Rivers and Creeks.

·    Enhanced Heritage Spaces.

In addition, the Master Plan identifies opportunities for research and innovation, and acknowledges the importance of high-quality public spaces, infrastructure, and urban greening around establishments like housing, offices, schools, universities, and hospitals. It identifies the importance of connecting these places through an active and public transport network, for creating positive change and incentivizing investment in business, health and education that will act as catalyst for further economic growth and social transformation.

Various Projects Proposed in the LCC PDMP - Artist Impression

2. Draft Liverpool City Centre Public Domain Technical Manual (The Technical Manual)

The Technical Manual provides detailed technical design guidance and includes standard drawings and specifications for all public infrastructure located within the city’s public domain (including publicly accessible but privately-owned spaces). It will ensure that a high-quality, consistent, and standardised palette of furniture, fixtures and finishes is implemented across the city centre, irrespective of the funding, timing, or delivery stream (including through private development).

The Technical Manual includes detailed design guidance for streets and public spaces including the placement and spacing of essential infrastructure. It also comprises detailed technical drawings and specifications for all public domain infrastructure within the city centre, which includes (but is not limited to):

·    interfaces with commercial & industrial buildings, residential flat buildings, schools, civic buildings, parks and services;

·    core and periphery street typologies, intersections, serviceways and laneways design etc;

·    standard drawings and specifications for paving, kerb ramps, crossings, roundabouts, traffic calming devices, kerb and gutter etc;

·    standard drawings and specifications for tree plantings, street tree pits & grates, planter boxes, WSUD, groundcovers, shrubs, and turf etc;   

·    standard drawings and specifications for seats, bins, bollards, platforms, benches, picnic benches, bike racks, drinking fountains etc; and

·    standard drawings and specifications for multi-function poles, pedestrian lighting, bollards, parking meters, bus stops etc.

The Technical Manual is a vital part of supporting the growth and development of the LIP by facilitating the delivery of Council’s vision for the city centre (outlined in the PDMP).

Various Extracted Pages - LCC PDTM

Project Implementation and Funding Sources

The Master Plan includes a comprehensive implementation plan which provides a high-level indication of the cost implications, project priority and potential funding sources for all identified placemaking projects. In order to support the development of the LIP and entice further investment within the area, considerable time and project funding is necessary. In this regard, the Master Plan projects are proposed to be funded from various sources, including:

·    Planning Proposals (PP) and Development Assessment (DA) Applications

The Master Plan will help guide negotiations for streetscape and public domain improvements during the Planning Proposal/Development Application process;

·    Voluntary Planning Agreements (VPAs)

The Master Plan will guide negotiations for streetscape and public domain improvements through the Voluntary Planning Agreement process;

·    Developer Contributions (7/11) Funding

Several projects within the Master Plan can be fully or partially funded by Developer Contributions (7/11) funding;

·        Grant Funding

The Master Plan will be, and has been used to secure external and/or grant funding and foster collaboration with various stakeholders for the delivery of projects;

·    Collaboration Partners/Others

The Master Plan will assist in collaboration with partners, to deliver a shared vision for the city centre; and

·    Council Funding

The Master Plan will help inform Council funded projects within the city centre, including capital works projects and recurring maintenance works.

Master Plan Projects (Placemaking Opportunities)

The Master Plan identifies 90 projects in the Liverpool City Centre intended to fulfill Council's vision as Sydney’s third CBD. Curated by Council’s City Design and Public Domain Team (in consultation with various others across Council), these projects aim to revitalise the city centre, encourage investment, guide high-quality development and support future growth.

Extracted Pages 190 & 191 - LCC PDTM

All 90 projects are categorised under the seven (7) key directions of the Master Plan:

1.   Improved Streets

The Master Plan aims to create healthier, people-oriented streets by prioritising active and public transport. Upgrades will enhance the amenity, safety, and comfort of our streets with new street trees, vegetation, and high-quality infrastructure, attracting more people, businesses, and investment.

2.   Activated Serviceways / Laneways

Serviceways and laneways are energized by directing developments to have dual- frontages with laneway access. New infrastructure enhances their unique character and promotes pedestrian use. Upgrades also facilitate community events and improve pedestrian movement in the city centre.

3.   Improved Gateways

Gateways are improved to define transitions, create a sense of arrival, and aid wayfinding for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. These treatments reflect the city's character and incorporate high-quality infrastructure and points of interest.

4.   Increased and Improved Car Parking

The Master Plan enhances parking strategies by increasing capacity and facilitating street tree planting. It encourages public transport and aims to shift towards active and public transportation. To alleviate city centre parking demand and congestion, accessible parking is identified on the outskirts.

5.   New and Upgraded Open Spaces

Open space quality and quantity are increased by retaining and enhancing existing spaces and introducing new pocket parks and shared-use areas. Upgrades include new trees, vegetation, amenities, sports facilities, and public infrastructure.

6.   Improved Rivers and Creeks

Improvements to the Georges River and Brickmakers Creek include enhanced waterfront connections and embellishment of surrounding areas with recreational infrastructure and opportunities for water interaction. Measures are proposed to treat stormwater runoff and improve the water health.

7.   Enhanced Heritage Spaces

Indigenous, European, and Migrant and Transnational Heritage is conserved, enhanced, and promoted in the city centre. Heritage items including buildings, structures, parks, and monuments, are celebrated through site-specific interventions and heritage-inspired treatments.

Master Plan Projects within the LIP

The Master Plan acknowledges the significance of the LIP within the city centre and identifies a large quantity (35) of overlapping projects that will help support its development and growth. In this regard, the overall objectives within the broader city centre and the LIP are intertwined. A few of the key placemaking opportunities located within the LIP include:

·    Macquarie Street (North, Middle & South) Upgrade (Improved Streets)

As the CBD’s Urban Spine and a major anchor point for the western edge of LIP, a suite of public domain upgrades along the length of the street is proposed, including granite paving, bluestone kerb & gutter, organised parking, street trees, vegetation, traffic calming and a consistent palette of furniture, fixtures and fittings.

·    George Street Upgrade (Improved Streets)

Identified as a vital north-south active transport corridor linking the Hume highway, WSU and UOW Campuses, the Liverpool Civic Place and Liverpool Train Station to ensure active transport is at the heart of the LIP. The vision includes a dedicated bi-directional cycleway, in road street trees, organised parking, granite paving, bluestone kerb & gutter as well as a consistent furniture, fixtures and fittings.

·    Elizabeth Street Upgrade (Improved Streets)

Identified as a green boulevard, and a crucial east-west link connecting Macquarie Mall, Westfield, WSU campus and the hospital precinct to key open spaces including Bigge Park, Apex Park and St. Lukes Anglican Church forecourt. Upgrades include footpath widening, in road street trees, granite paving, bluestone kerb & gutter as well as a consistent palette of furniture, fixtures and fittings that will deliver a significant character uplift, enhanced amenity and social activation.

·    Moore Street Upgrade (Improved Streets)

Identified as the key east-west active transport corridor connecting the Liverpool Station, Liverpool Tafe, the UOW campus and Bigge Park to Macquarie Mall. The vision includes a dedicated bi-directional cycleway, in road street trees, organised parking, granite paving, bluestone kerb & gutter and a consistent palette of furniture, fixtures and fittings that will provide active transport connectivity throughout the LIP.

·    Railway Street (Improved Streets)

A crucial link between George Street and Bigge Street, this is an important pedestrian gateway into the city centre and LIP, when arriving from Liverpool Station. The vision includes traffic calming measures, slower speeds, wider footpaths, organised parking, high-quality streetscape furniture, seating areas, gateway embellishments (including public art) street trees and vegetation for an improved arrival experience, pedestrian safety and amenity.

·    Scott Street & Memorial Avenue Upgrade (Improved Streets)

The southern edge of the LIP and a key connection between New Bridge Road, the Liverpool Station, Liverpool Civic Place and Woodward Place. The proposal comprises a suite of public domain upgrades including a potential dedicated bi-directional cycleway, granite paving, bluestone kerb & gutter, organised parking, street trees, vegetation, traffic calming and a upgraded furniture palette.

Additionally, other projects within the LIP, with the potential to create the desired uplift to support growth, encourage development and attract investment include:

·    Liverpool Health Precinct Streets (Improved Streets);

·    Railway Serviceway (Activated Serviceways/Laneways);

·    George Lane (Activated Serviceways/Laneways);

·    Warren Serviceway (Activated Serviceways/Laneways);

·    Laurantus Serviceway (Activated Serviceways/Laneways);

·    Berryman Reserve Gateway (Improved Gateways);

·    Bigge Street North Gateway (Improved Gateways);

·    Macquarie Street North Gateway (Improved Gateways);

·    Liverpool Pioneers Memorial Park (New and Upgrade Open Space);

·    Old Liverpool Library Forecourt (New and Upgrade Open Space);

·    College Street Pocket Park (New and Upgrade Open Space);

·    Bigge Park Embellishment (New and Upgrade Open Space);

·    Georges River Master Plan (Improved Rivers and Creeks);

·    Georges River Connection and Boardwalk (Improved Rivers and Creeks);

·    Pedestrian Bridge across Georges River (Improved Rivers and Creeks);

·    Phillimona Park (Enhanced Heritage Spaces); and

·    Former Liverpool Courthouse (Enhanced Heritage Spaces).

Council-led Master Plan Projects Delivered within the LIP

Numerous Master Plan projects in the LIP have been funded and delivered through multiple funding streams including state government grants. These projects are vital for enhancing the city’s character and changing perceptions of Liverpool to entice further development and investment. Key completed projects within the LIP include:

1.   Railway Serviceway (Tactical Urbanism Demonstration Project)

Funded by TfNSW’s ‘Places to Love’ Grant Program, this project was completed in early 2022 in Railway Serviceway. Despite a small budget, the project used low-cost, high-impact design strategies to add seating, umbrellas, plants, trees, road paint, traffic calming, and public art. This initiative successfully revitalised an underutilised public area, testing long-term solutions through short-term low-cost trials.

2.   Railway Street (Shared Spaces Demonstration Project)

Funded by TfNSW’s ‘Streets for Shared Spaces Round 2’ Grant Program, this project was successfully completed in mid-2023, in Railway Street. The project was designed to activate the street, stimulate local economy, and enhance the streetscape within a relatively small budget and timeframe. The intention of this project was to test high impact streetscape changes, used to inform a permanent reconfiguration as part of the successful West Invest Grant Program.

The project delivered a temporary footpath widening, kerb buildouts with parklets, barriers, surface treatments, street lines and artificial turf. An outdoor dining area was included with temporary furniture, barriers, shading devices, and lighting. The creation of recreation areas with temporary seating, furniture, planter boxes, and barriers were implemented and a community event held with pop-up activities.

3.   Former Liverpool Courthouse (Restoration Project)

Restoration works to activate the former Liverpool Courthouse building and surrounding gardens are presently being undertaken by Council. Funded by various sources (including grants and Council’s capital works), the project intends to capitalise on opportunities to reengage the community with Liverpool's history by reinvigorating the courthouse building and surrounding public space. The proposed works include restoring the building façade, front stone wall, fence, and gate as well as a enhancing the courtyard to the rear, removing the intrusive green fence and the provisioning of a period sensitive landscaping along the Moore Street frontage.

4.   Bigge Park Embellishment (New and Upgrade Open Space)

Embellishment works at Bigge Park have been delivered in multiple phases over several years and funded through various streams and programs. Bigge Park is a pivotal space at the heart of the LIP and an important part of the city’s ongoing revitalisation. A central community hub providing high-quality amenity, passive open space, abundant lawns, trees, water play, showers, changerooms, exercise equipment and play facilities within proximity to many health, education, research, and commercial developments. Council’s Master Plan has informed upgrade works including new public art and lighting (grant funded) and the planting of over 65 new trees (grant funded), as well as new street paving and vegetation as part of ongoing capital works and maintenance programs. Council is also investigating a comprehensive Public Art Program for Bigge Park through another Council resolution which would provide additional uplift to this significant open space.

5.   Urban Forest Strategy & Tree Management Framework

Planting more trees in the city centre is essential for reducing urban temperatures and enhancing our public spaces to create a more liveable city and encourage people and investment. Council secured $1.75 million in co-funded grants from the Five Million Trees for Greater Sydney, Greening our City, and Greener Neighbourhoods programs for new tree plantings and other tree related projects. The Urban Forest Strategy and Tree Management Framework (including an updated Tree Policy, new Tree Management Strategy, and Guidelines) aim to increase tree canopy cover in the CBD, making it more comfortable and liveable within the heart of the LIP.

Council-led Master Plan Projects in the LIP with Funding

Several Master Plan projects within the LIP have been awarded / allocated funding for implementation. A number of these projects are currently within the initial design and investigation phases. The projects received funding through various streams including the NSW State Government grant programs (e.g., WestInvest, Public Space Legacy Program and Get Active NSW) and Council’s ongoing capital works and maintenance programs. Overall, Council was successfully awarded more than $100 million in state government grant funding for the design and/or delivery of these major city shaping infrastructure projects.  All successful grants were informed by the Master Plan, with the forthcoming detailed design

and construction works to be guided by the Technical Manual.

These projects are important first steps for Liverpool’s revitalisation, to encourage investment and support development within the LIP and surrounding city centre. Some of the key funded Master Plan projects located within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct include:

1.   Macquarie Street (Middle) Streetscape Upgrade

Macquarie Street, Liverpool's "High Street", is the central hub of the city and its Innovation Precinct. Recognised in the Master Plan as a cultural and social activity centre, the Macquarie Street (Middle) project received funding in 2020 from the NSW Government's Public Space Legacy Program. Guided by the Master Plan and Draft Technical Manual, the project is in final design stages, with work expected to start in mid-2024. The works include major infrastructure upgrades such as high-quality public domain infrastructure (furniture, fixtures, and fittings), paving, street trees, vegetation, lighting, and opportunities for outdoor dining. This revitalisation supports growth and enhances the city's overall character at the heart of the LIP.

2.   Macquarie Street (South & North) Upgrade

The Master Plan highlights Macquarie Street as a key cultural and social hub. Macquarie Street (North) will be a significant attraction for the LIP, connecting Pioneers Memorial Park, Westfields, and Macquarie Mall. In 2023, the Macquarie Street (North & South) project received funding from the NSW Government's Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program (WestInvest). Guided by the Master Plan and Draft Technical Manual, the project is in early design stages, with construction work expected to start in late 2024. The works include major infrastructure upgrades such as high-quality public domain infrastructure (furniture, fixtures, and fittings), paving, street trees, vegetation, lighting, and opportunities for

outdoor dining.

3.    Railway Street Upgrade

The Railway Street project will embellish an important pedestrian connection between George Street and Bigge Street and define a key pedestrian gateway for the Innovation Precinct. In 2023, the project was awarded funding as part of the NSW Governments Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program (WestInvest). The proposed works are currently in the early design and investigation phases, and will include traffic calming measures, slower speeds, wider footpaths, organised parking, high-quality streetscape furniture, seating areas, outdoor dining provisions, gateway embellishments (including public art), trees and vegetation for an overall improved arrival experience, pedestrian movement, safety, and amenity.

4.   Scott Street & Memorial Avenue Upgrade

The southern edge of the LIP and a key connection between New Bridge Road, the Liverpool Station and Liverpool Civic Place, the Scott Street & Memorial Avenue upgrade project will be a significant step forward for this rapidly advancing precinct. In 2023, the Scott Street & Memorial Avenue project was awarded funding as part of the NSW Governments Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program (WestInvest). The proposed works are currently in the early design and investigation phases and will contain a suite of public domain upgrades including granite paving, bluestone kerb & gutter, organised parking, street trees, vegetation, traffic calming and a

consistent furniture palette as a potential bi-directional cycleway.

In addition, some other significant (currently funded) Master Plan projects located within the LIP, include:

5.   George Street Cycleway (Get Active NSW Grant);

6. Moore Street Cycleway (Get Active NSW Grant);

7. Phillimona Gardens Project (Public Space Legacy Program);

8. Liverpool Pioneers Memorial Park (Council Funded); and

9.   Georges River Master Plan (Council Funded).

Master Plan & Technical Manual Guiding Development in the LIP

The Master Plan & Technical Manual are important instruments for Council in guiding the growth and development of the LIP. They help set new benchmarks for the quality of the public domain and work towards changing expectations for the standard of development, this includes the guiding of projects that are funded and delivered through private development.

The Master Plan sets the vision for all new development to follow, providing a consistent and cohesive adopted strategy for all streetscape works. The Technical Manual ensures this strategy will be delivered by providing detailed guidance for the placement, specification, and implementation of all public domain infrastructure, whilst both documents guide new development to work cohesively across the public and private realm (i.e., interfaces).
A major part of the embellishment and uplift of the LIP is achieved through private development works within the public domain. These works are typically facilitated through conditions of consent and generally involve significant streetscape upgrade works. When completed to the expected standard, these new streetscapes will facilitate a more liveable, desirable city and attract further investment in the precinct. Some examples of completed projects that were successfully guided by the Master Plan and Technical Manual documents, include:

1.   Liverpool Health Precinct (Street Upgrades)

These streetscape upgrades works are currently being funded and delivered as part of the broader Liverpool Health and Academic Precinct redevelopment. Council's Master Plan and Technical Manual documents have been instrumental in guiding the design and delivery of public domain infrastructure ensuring the proposal is consistent with the broader Liverpool City Centre and Innovation Precinct vision.

2.   Scott & Terminus Street Upgrade (Civic Place)

Partial streetscape upgrade works to both Scott & Terminus Streets have been facilitated through the Civic Place development. These works demonstrate the high-quality furniture, fixtures and fittings that the Master Plan envisioned. The Technical Manual guided the delivery of a consistent, robust, and aesthetically pleasing palette of public domain infrastructure that supports the integration of this significant

development within the broader city centre.

3.   167 Northumberland Street, Street Upgrade

Upgrade works to a portion of the streetscape have been enabled through the development of 167 Northumberland Street. These works showcase the high-quality paving, bins, seats, street lighting, tree pits/grates, street trees and bike racks from the Technical Manual, which provides an immediate impact on the quality of the public domain and strengthens the integration of the building within the city centre.

4.        Laurantus Serviceway Upgrade (167 Northumberland Street)

A section of the serviceway has been upgraded as part of the redevelopment of 167 Northumberland Street. These works demonstrate a potential shift Liverpool’s character through the implementation of the high-quality serviceway/laneway paving envisioned in the Master Plan. The document was used in the initial stages of the development application to inform the desired outcome for the serviceway, with the Technical Manual providing the relevant paving specifications, technical guidance, and construction information during the detailed design phases of the application to

ensure the works were consistent with Councils requirements.

5.   4-6 Bigge Street, Warwick Farm

Streetscape upgrade works at 4-6 Bigge Street, were facilitated through the construction of a residential flat building. These works showcase differences in the envisioned character between the Core and Periphery areas of the city centre, reflected through the materials and furniture palette. Located within the periphery area of the city centre, guided by the Technical Manual, the development included the delivery of new kerb and gutter, large street trees, tree pits and grates as well as an interconnected Stratavault structural soil trench which provides abundant soil volume to facilitate the healthy growth and development of street trees within the footpath, crucial for safer, greener, cooler, and higher amenity streets within the LIP.

6.   New Liverpool Primary School

Streetscape upgrades at 18 Forbes Street were delivered as part of the New Liverpool Public School development. The included public domain works were funded by the NSW Department of Education as part of the wider development. The works showcase the public domain palette for the periphery areas including new coloured concrete paving, a shared path, kerb and gutter, raised driveway crossing (pedestrian / cyclist priority), paved medians, large street trees, garden beds, bollards, bins and seats in accordance with the Technical Manual.

Master Plan Projects in the LIP to be Fast-tracked

As stated above, The Master Plan identifies 90 projects across the city centre, with about 35 overlapping with the LIP. Due to varying funding, timelines, and demand, several significant and potentially high-impact projects remain unfunded and/or uninitiated. These projects are crucial for creating a vibrant, accessible, comfortable, and safe environment within the CBD to support further growth and development, and attract people and investment to the LIP. The projects recommended by the CDPD Team, to be fast-tracked include:

1.   Elizabeth Street Upgrade

Identified as a ‘Green boulevard’, and a key east-west link connecting Macquarie Mall, Westfield, the WSU campus, and the Liverpool Health and Academic Precinct to key open spaces within the city centre including Bigge Park, Apex Park and St. Lukes Anglican Church forecourt. Prioritisation of this streetscape upgrade would generate impactful change to the character of Liverpool’s public spaces. Several sites along Elizabeth Street are currently earmarked for private redevelopment and will incorporate significant upgrades to the public domain including increased setbacks, wider footpaths (along the southern side), granite paving, bluestone kerb and gutter as well as a consistent / high-quality suite of furniture, fixtures, and fittings.

2.   George Street Upgrade

Identified as the city centre’s key north-south active transport corridor connecting Hume highway, the WSU Campus, the new Civic Place and Liverpool Train Station. This project includes a dedicated on-street bi-directional cycleway, kerb buildouts, in road tree pits and street trees, organised parking, granite paving, bluestone kerb and gutter as well as a consistent palette of furniture, fixtures and fittings that will ensure active transport, movement and connectivity is at the heart of the LIP.

3.   Moore Street Upgrade

Identified as the city centre’s key east-west active transport corridor connecting the Liverpool Station, Liverpool Tafe, the UOW campus and Bigge Park to Macquarie mall and the city core. This project includes a dedicated bi-directional cycleway, kerb buildouts, in road street trees, organised parking, granite paving, bluestone kerb and gutter as well as a consistent palette of furniture, fixtures and fittings that will ensure active transport, movement and connectivity is integrated into LIP.

In addition, some other Master Plan projects located within the LIP that are recommended to be fast-tracked, include:

4.   Bigge Street Upgrade;

5.   Campbell Street Upgrade;

6.   Berryman Reserve Gateway;

7.   Bigge Street North Gateway; and

8.   Pedestrian Bridge across Georges River.

Liverpool City Centre and Innovation Precinct as a University City

The presence of three leading universities WSU, UOW and UNSW within the LIP sets the foundations as a hub for research and innovation. Council’s aspirations for the CBD to become a true University City can be achieved by building upon the existing foundations and providing an impetus to support the needs of various user groups, stakeholders and businesses creating momentum for significant economic and social growth.

Embellishment of our streetscapes, open spaces, laneways, plazas and new high-quality development, guided by the Master Plan and Technical Manual will help create meaningful change and shift perceptions of Liverpool as a healthier and more liveable city that caters to a wider demographic (including young adults) and supporting new development and investment in the health, research and academic sectors.

With excellent transport connections and abundant greenery, surrounded by engaging architecture, quality public spaces and canopy trees, the envisioned city centre promises a vibrant hub for living, learning, working, and leisure. In this regard, Liverpool can cater to the innovative and research-based needs of the health and education sectors through the guidance of the Master Plan and Technical Manual and become a true University City. In this regard, the Master Plan identifies several projects within the LIP (which are yet to be funded) that are targeted at youth and university age students, including:

1.      College Street Pocket Park

Identified as a youth space, this small pocket of land on the corner of Moore Street and College Street (nestled between TAFE and Liverpool Bus Station) has potential to provide a multi-purpose recreation space focused around the needs of the younger population and students. This space would provide the opportunity to socialise, gather and recreate, fostering a sense of belonging within the community.

2.   Old Liverpool Library Forecourt (New and Upgrade Open Space)

The forecourt of Former Liverpool Library has been a popular location for youth within the city centre for several years. Council has hosted many temporary activation events here for the City’s youth. There are ample opportunities here to create a meaningful space adjacent to the UOW campus and in proximity to several key locations within the LIP, which are all captured in the Master Plan.

3.   Liverpool Tafe Forecourt (New and Upgrade Open Space)

Bordered by the TAFE building, Bigge Street and Moore Street, the space is crucially located opposite Bigge Park and positioned adjacent to highly utilised footpaths, popular for pedestrians walking to and from Liverpool Station. This space has the potential to uplift the area and encourage further embellishment / development whilst providing a passive public space focused around the needs of students and workers.

4.   Western Sydney University Forecourt (New and Upgrade Open Space)

An empty forecourt located outside of the WSU campus, which adjoins the Westfield Shopping Centre. This public area has the potential to provide greater functionality for WSU students to utilise before & after classes. Given the site’s proximity to Macquarie Mall and the Westfield Shopping Centre entrance, this area also provides the opportunity to uplift the character of this key pedestrian street offering prospects to foster greater social interaction for the community within our streets.

With more university age people within the city centre, the demand industries like dining, bars and night clubs will increase with the potential for Liverpool to develop an 18hr economy in the future, opening up opportunities for further investment into these supporting industries within the Innovation Precinct and further stimulating the local economy.

Active and Public Transport within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct

As part of Transport for NSW’s ‘2023/24 Get NSW Active’ grant program, Council was successful in its application to facilitate the design of dedicated cycleways along two key arterial streets within the Liverpool City Centre. George Street and Moore Street were identified by the Master Plan as the city’s key active and public transport links, in which the concept plans and imagery were used as part of the successful grant application.

Providing dedicated active transport links along the city centre’s key east-west and north-south streets within the LIP will revolutionise transportation within the CBD and provide opportunities to attract a younger demographic more associated with active and healthy lifestyles. This project will also enable the community to choose a more sustainable mode of transport and reduce overall traffic congestion within the CBD including a lessening any potential conflict with cars and pedestrians, making it safer and more comfortable for people to ride, walk and drive on our streets within the LIP.

Public Art within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct

Public Art is an integral part of city cultural expression that captures various facets of society and its community. It adds meaning to the city and reflects its uniqueness by providing a canvas for expression through various art forms and art types. A public art survey conducted in 2019 indicates that Liverpool community believes Public Art is an important aspect of their readings of the city. 98.1% of respondents identified Public Art as a positive addition to facilities and public spaces, 97.4% cited that they believed the council should invest in and/or identify opportunities to increase Public Art across the LGA, and 97.7% of respondents agreed Public Art should be included in new developments.

Apart from providing a myriad of cultural, social, and economic benefits, public art instils a sense of community pride and ownership. It results in generating interests across boundaries and adds value to the overall character of the area. The diverse expressions and narratives within public art can entice different age groups including university students and workers / visitors within the precinct. Adequate consideration for public art as part of future developments within the LIP will help achieve far greater benefits in attracting investments and interests from various stakeholders, agencies, and developer groups.

The CDPD Team is currently working on a Public Art Strategy that will identify key directions and actions to deliver a broad array of public art programs, projects, and opportunities while supporting the local arts community through collaboration / capacity building. A recent example of public art delivered in Regal Lane and Railway Serviceway is captured below.

Heritage within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct

With a rich First Nations history and one of the oldest settlements in New South Wales and the first free settlement, the origins of Liverpool as a town is anchored in our colonial past however over the succeeding decades, our heritage has evolved, and our community’s recognition of heritage has changed. It is important that the various layer of history are preserved as part of any future works across the precinct. The current Liverpool Heritage Strategy sets out the plan to protect, conserve and enhance our city’s heritage buildings, places, objects and culture. It plan has been developed with the assistance of the community to ensure the city’s rich combination of traditions, memories, places and objects are identified and protected.

Other Activision, Event, Placemaking and Marketing Opportunities

In addition to the potential future activations at Moore Point, there are also plans to further enhance activations at Bigge Park. The success of the recent Australia Day BBQ and related entertainment, which attracted 1500 attendees, underscores the park's potential as a community hub for the city centre and LIP. Future proposed activations at Bigge Park include light shows and family-focused film nights, aimed at fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

As mentioned earlier in the report, recent improvements at Bigge Park have already begun to transform the area. Public art installations have been added to the main play area amenities block, and the Safe Haven café at the tennis courts has become a popular spot. Additionally, the recently reopened Bigge Espresso café features more public art, enhancing the park's appeal. This café has brought much-needed vibrancy and public amenities to the precinct, especially benefiting health workers and researchers from nearby facilities.

These enhancements and planned activations are part of a broader effort to make Bigge Park a central, lively space that meets the recreational and social needs of the community while supporting the ongoing development of the LIP.

Strategic Planning Context:

a)   Local Strategic Planning Statement

Local Strategic Planning Statement ‘Connected Liverpool 2040’ (LSPS) sets out Council’s 20-year vision for land use across the Local Government Area. It guides development and growth, by considering the need for housing, jobs, services as well as open spaces and the natural environment.

This is translated into sixteen planning priorities across four themes Connectivity, liveability, Productivity and Sustainability. The implementation of these planning priorities are carried out through corresponding actions.

The LSPS specifically lists planning priorities and actions which relate to the Liverpool Innovation Precinct, the relevant actions are included in Table 1 below.

Theme	Planning Priority	Action
Connectivity	Planning Priority 4: Liverpool is a leader in innovation and collaboration
Productivity	Planning Priority 10: A world class health, education, research and innovation precinct	10.1 Investigate LEP changes to necessary support the operations and growth of the Liverpool Innovation Precinct
Productivity	Planning Priority 12: Industrial and employment lands meet Liverpool future needs

Table 1: Local Strategic Planning Statement Planning Priorities and Actions.

b)   Liverpool Local Environmental Plan (Amendment 52)

On 5 September 2018, Amendment 52 of the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 was gazetted. The amendment covered 25 hectares in the Liverpool City Centre and created significant capacity under the LEP provisions. Specifically, Amendment 52, made the following changes to LLEP2008:

·    Rezone the majority of the existing commercial core of Liverpool city centre from B3 Commercial Core to B4 Mixed Use.

·    Establishes four precincts within the Liverpool City Centre, to be known as:

-     “Area 7” is the Fine Grain Precinct;

-     “Area 8” is the Midrise Precinct;

-     “Area 9” is the Long-Term Civic Sites Precinct; and

-     “Area 10” is the Commercial Core Precinct.

·    Reduces the FSR of “Area 7” Fine Grain Precinct from 3:1 to 2.5:1 (described as the fine grain precinct in the planning proposal)

·    Applies an FSR 3:1 to “Area 8” (described as the midrise precinct in the planning proposal

·    Introduce Clause 7.5a which allows for up to a 10:1 FSR for sites of a certain size and nature within Area 8 and 10, and a 7:1 FSR for sites of a certain size and nature within Area 9.

These amendments to planning controls created extensive residential and commercial capacity within the Liverpool City Centre.

c)   Liverpool Local Environmental Plan – Current LEP Controls

The area subject to the Liverpool Innovation Precinct mainly consists of the Liverpool CBD, Liverpool Hospital, and the high-density residential area to the north. The current planning control applying in the LLEP2008 are outlined in Table 2 below:

Land use (map 3)		Floor Space Ratio (map 4)	Height of Building (map 5)
E2 Commercial Centre		4:1	35m
		5:1	100m
MU1 Mixed use		2.5:1	35m
			21m
		3:1	28m
		10:1	n/a
		2:1	24m
SP1 Special activities	Liverpool Hospital	2.5:1	35m
	Liverpool Girls Highschool/ Liverpool Boys Highschool		35m
	TAFE NSW Liverpool/		18m
R4 High Density Residential		2:1	45m
			35m
Table 2. Land use controls outlined in LEP 2008

In addition to the mapped land use controls within LEP2008, there are a number of bonuses that can be achieved for developments within Area 8, 9 or 10 on the Floor Space Ratio Maps.  In order to achieve these bonuses, the development site must exceed 1500m², and have at least two street frontages. The development must also propose to have at least 20% gross floor area for non-residential purposes. (centre-based childcare facilities, commercial premises, community facilities, educational establishments, entertainment facilities, functions centres, hotel or motel accommodation, information and education facilities, medical centres or public administration buildings). If the development meets those specified tests, the development may exceed the specified height of building, and utilise up to 10:1 FSR (for Area 8 or 10), or 7:1 (Area 9).

Key Sites:

Within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct, LEP2008 allows for a wide range of permissibility uses, including high density residential, commercial uses, and retail uses, the LEP2008., identifies a number of site under key site map provisions, and these include:

·    Clause 7.17A ‘Hospital Helicopter Airspace’: The objective of this clause is to protect hospital helicopter airspace and required any application to be referred to the local health district for comment. This is show on the map below.

·    Schedule 1, Clause 10 ‘Use of certain land in Liverpool City Centre in Zones MU1 and R4’: This allows for the additional uses of light industry (medical research and development), and office premises (only with respect to medical or health industries) to be achieved on the land mapped blue below

·    Clause 7.25 ‘Food and drink premises and shop on certain land in Zone E1’ stating: that Development consent must not be granted to development for the following purposes:

o  Food and drink premises if the gross floor area of the premises will be more than 300 sqm,

o  A shop if the gross floor area of the shop will be more than 1,500 sqm

Clause 7.25 only applies to 5 small lots in the most northern portion of the Liverpool Innovation Precinct.

Map 2. Key Site Maps within the LIP

Development Activity in the Liverpool CBD

Although, there is significant capacity under the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008, there has been limited take up since the implementation of Amendment 52. Since September 2018, 15 major Development Applications have been lodged and approved (or currently under assessment) within the Liverpool CBD for residential purposes (Residential Flat Buildings, Shop-top housing, Multi-dwelling and Boarding House). Noting, this does not include the DA / Modification application relating to Civic Place. A full list of the relevant Development Applications is included in Appendix 1.

In addition, 61-71 Goulburn Street has been subject to a planning proposal to facilitate the development of the Liverpool Private Hospital. This planning proposal was finalised in late 2023, and a State Significant Development Application has been lodged to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

Current LEP Amendments:

Council staff are currently drafting a new Principal Local Environmental Plan. As part of this process, investigations which have resulted in recommendation to amend some controls within the City Centre. Specifically, Clause 7.5a is proposed to be amended, as follows:

·      Reduced Commercial Gross Floor Area (GFA): Reduction of 20% GFA requirement for commercial uses to minimum of 15% GFA, to achieve the bonus height of building and Floor Space Ratio as per this clause. If the market demand enables greater than 15% for non-residential uses, this can still be achieved under this clause.

·    Inclusion of Build to Rent: Introduction of Built to Rent (BTR) to be classified as a commercial use, to achieve the bonus development standards as per this clause.

·    Clause 4.6 Variation: Removal of this clause as a prohibition of 4.6 Exception to Development Standards, to enable flexibility where minor variations can be accommodated, for 7.5A(1) only, i.e. only site size and street frontage requirements, and not the bonus development standards. 

·    New Area for Liverpool Hospital: Introduction of a new Area 9 (Mixed Use) provision for land directly west of the Liverpool Hospital. It is noted this land is primarily strata units and would require 2 lots to be amalgamated for the bonus to occur. The Liverpool Private Hospital has recently completed a planning proposal for increased HOB and FSR (79m and 6.9:1 respectively) within this marked area. This FSR is commensurate to the Area 9 standards. Further consideration of Hospital Flight Paths, solar access and overshadowing will be required. 

Examples of Health and Education Precincts throughout Sydney:

Throughout Greater Sydney, there are other Health and Education precinct which aim to facilitate similar outcomes to those aims for the Liverpool Innovation Precinct. A few examples are marked on the map and outlined below.

Map 3. Examples of similar precincts within Greater Sydney

a) Blacktown Health and Education Precinct

i.    Location: The Blacktown Health and Education Precinct is located between Blacktown CBD and Blacktown Hospital. The precinct is approximately 20ha in size and bounded by the Western Railway line to the north, Sunnyholt Road and Newton Road to the west, Griffiths Street, Marcel Crescent and Blacktown hospital to the east, and Bungarribee Road to the south. A map of the precinct in shown below.

Map 4: Map of Blacktown Health and Education Precinct

ii.   Planning Controls:  The area was subject to a recent planning proposal which was gazetted in December 2022. The planning proposal rezoned the area and amended building heights and created additional local provisions to incentivise development. The in-force building heights and floor space ratios for the Health Precinct and surrounding CBD are outlined below.

	Blacktown LEP 2015 (in force)	Comment:
Land Use Zoning	B4 Mixed Use SP1 Special Activities (Health Service Facilities and Educational Establishment)	The zoning was recently amended as part of the planning proposal which was gazetted in December 2022.
Floor Space Ratio	N/A	Blacktown does not specify floor space ratios in the health and education precinct.
Height of Building	Varies. Between 14-32metres. Up to 44m (will be subject to design excellence being demonstrated through a design competition, and buildings having the maximum floor plate of 1,000m^2	The Height of building was recently amended as part of the planning proposal which was gazetted in December 2022.

Table 4: Land use controls outlined in Blacktown LEP 2015

b) Westmead Health and Education Precinct

ii Location: The Westmead Place Strategy has seven sub precincts, and the Westmead Health and Innovation precinct is one of the sub-precincts. The sub-precinct is situated to the north of Westmead Station, containing health, research, innovation and education facilities. The centre core is defined by Westmead Hospital, and the Childrens hospital Westmead.

Map 5: Westmead Precinct

ii) Planning Controls Under the Parramatta LEP the following development standards apply to the precinct:

Land use		Floor Space Ratio	Maximum Building Height
MU1 Mixed use		1.5	12m
		3.0	31m
		3.5	40m
		4	48m
SP2 Special activities	Health Services Facility	n/a	n/a
	Educational Establishment	n/a	n/a
R4 High Density Residential		1.7	20m
RE1 Public Recreation

Table 5: Land use controls outlined in Parramatta LEP 2023

c) Campbelltown / Macarthur

i) Location: Whilst the Campbelltown Macarthur example is not specifically identified as a health or education precinct. It is a useful example given it has similar anchor tenants to Liverpool. These include, a train station, shopping centre, two hospitals, and a university on the periphery. The area shown on the below is 100ah, which is of similar scale to the Liverpool Innovation Precinct. A map, and the applicable development standards a shown below.

Map 6: subject area referred to: Campbelltown

ii) Planning Controls Under Campbelltown LEP, the following controls apply to the area referenced in Map 6.

Land use	Floor Space Ratio	Maximum Building Height
MU1 Mixed use	n/a	19m
	n/a	22.5m
	n/a	32m
E2 Commercial Core	n/a	32m
SP2 Health Services Facility	n/a	n/a
R4 High Density Residential	n/a	22.5 m
R3 Medium Density Residential	n/a	9m
RE1 Public Recreation	n/a	n/a
Table 6. Land use controls outlined in Campbelltown LEP

Conclusions and Recommendations

The projects identified within the Master Plan provide a comprehensive approach towards uplifting the overall character of Liverpool City Centre and supporting the growth and development of the LIP. Good Urban Design outcomes have the ability to alter the perception of a place and attract the right people and investors. With the Master Plan and the Technical Manual as key documents helping to guide the future growth and development of the LIP, Council and the community are well placed to ensure our future is prosperous.

The land-use controls within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct are very generous, especially when compared to other precincts of similar scale within Greater Sydney. Whilst land use planning is an important factor in promoting development and growth within the Liverpool Innovation Precinct, market factors are outside control of Council. Since Covid-19, the building industry has suffered from labour shortages, significant increases in the price of building materials as well as rises in interest rates. These factors are considered a bigger hinderance on the completion of Development Applications rather than planning controls. This is especially true when considering the scale of development already permitted under the existing planning controls.

Given the information above, Strategic Planning and City Design and Public Domain Teams recommend the following:

·    Prioritise the implementation of the Master Plan Projects in the Liverpool Innovation Precinct to be Fast-tracked’.

·    Develop a CBD Signage Strategy as part of Council’s FY 24/25 budget;

·    Implement the CBD Signage as part of Council’s FY 25/26 budget;

·    Undertake additional street tree plantings in Elizabeth and George Streets as part of Council’s FY 24/25 Budget;

·    Implement multi-function poles and banners in the Liverpool Innovation Precinct as part of Council’s 24/25 budget; and,

·    Advocate for key investment from the State Government which will be a catalyst for private investment.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no direct financial implications relating to this recommendation. However, individual recommendations have financial implications which will be raised as a separate business case in the future.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	Further develop a commercial centre that accommodates a variety of employment opportunities. Encourage and promote businesses to develop in the hospital health and medical precinct (of the City Centre). Facilitate economic development.
Environment	Protect, enhance and maintain areas of endangered ecological communities and high-quality bushland as part of an attractive mix of land uses.
Social	Preserve and maintain heritage, both landscape and cultural as urban development takes place. Regulate for a mix of housing types that responds to different population groups such as young families and older people.
Civic Leadership	Foster neighbourhood pride and a sense of responsibility. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.
Legislative	Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
Risk	The risk is deemed to be Low. There is no risk associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1.         Attachment 1: Recent DAs in Liverpool City Centre

1
ITEM 03	Mayoral Minute: Liverpool Innovation Precinct
Attachment 1	Attachment 1: Recent DAs in Liverpool City Centre

1

Governance Committee Meeting

13 August 2024

Strategic Priorities Committee Report

ITEM 04

Amendments to Council Venue Hire Policies

Strategic Objective	Healthy, Inclusive, Engaging Improve liveability and quality of life for the community by delivering vibrant parks, places and facilities
File Ref	256544.2024
Report By	Craig Lambeth - Manager Community Recreation
Approved By	Tina Bono - Director Community & Lifestyle

Executive Summary

Council avails its Community Facilities and Sporting Venues to local organisations, clubs, schools, residents and other entities on a hire basis.  These facilities accommodate important activities that support marginalised and targeted community groups, support small, locally based commercial entities and attract significant locally significant external events.  Collectively Councils sporting fields and community facilities are estimated to attract almost one million annual attendances.

The Local Government Act 1993 defines the basis by which Council may enter leases, licences and hire agreement on community land.  Council’s Community Facilities Generic Plan of Management is intended to ensure that Council is compliant with its obligations under the Act.  However, the Community Facilities Generic Plan of Management was last reviewed in 2005 and subsequently has lost pace with the development of both existing and new community facilities. 

To improve the experience of hirers and to meet its obligations Council is required to undertake a multi-tiered approach to improve the governance framework of its community facilities:

Phase 1 - Update and Streamline its Policy Framework.

Phase 2 - Review of Fees and Charges; and

Phase 3 - Update its Community Facilities Generic Plan of Management.

Currently, access to Community Halls and Sporting Fields is defined by a range of documents that includes Policies, Terms and Conditions and Licences.  There are additional documents that define applicable charges, and opportunities for fee reduction. 

This Report seeks to streamline these documents to allow for a more effective, efficient and user-friendly Policy Framework.  This is to be achieved through:

·    The establishment of a high-level over-arching Policy for Hire of Community Facilities

·    The establishment of a high-level over-arching Policy for Hire of Sport and Recreation facilities; and

·    The consolidation of all Terms and Condition to form part of the Booking process. 

The current and proposed Polices are attached to this Report.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee meeting:

1.   Receives and notes this Report.

2.   Adopts the recommended Hire policies attached to this Report that includes:

Community Facilities Hire Policy.

Hire of Playing Surface Policy – Sporting Fields and Recreation Spaces.

3.   Supports the inclusion of Conditions of Hire to be contained within the Hire Agreement for Community Facilities and Sport and Recreation spaces attached to this Report; and

4.   Delegates to the CEO, the development of Conditions of Hire for Community Facilities and Sport and Recreation Spaces.

5.   Proceed to 28 days public exhibition.

REPORT

Background

The provision of Council’s community venues, parks and sporting grounds to the community is a pivotal in connecting the community to programs, services and activities that promote physical, mental and social wellbeing. 

Council currently has approximately 35 community facilities and 50 sporting venues available to the community with more than 120 individually bookable spaces.   Attracting almost one million annual visitations, through approximately 100 service providers, these facilities act to that support the needs of some of Councils most marginalised groups. 

In its current form, the Council relies on several instruments to provide the governance framework for the hire and management of venue bookings.  In the case of its Community Facilities, these include:

·  Commercial Businesses Short-term Hire Procedures (Terms and Conditions)

·  Community Facilities Management Casual Hire (Terms and Conditions)

·  Community Venues Permanent Hire Procedures (Terms and Conditions)

·  Community Facilities Licence Agreement

·  Community Venues Casual Hire Procedures (Terms and Conditions)

·  Change/Cancellation of Casual Facility Hiring Booking Date

·  Change/Cancellation of Permanent Facility Hiring

·  Community Facilities - Fee Reduction Program

Each of these documents is intended to define the Terms and Conditions of Hire and consider varying occupancy agreements between the Council and the Hirer. 

Hire Procedures

Council has separate processes for the hire of Community Facilities and Sporting Fields. 

In the case of Community Facilities, Council enters one of three (3) agreements:

·  3-year Licence Agreement offering exclusive access to a defined areas within a community facility.

·  A Permanent hire Agreement offering non-exclusive access to a shared space for up to 3 years; and/or

·  A Casual Hire Agreement offering one off access.

Council seeks Expressions of Interest from community groups, organisations and individuals every three (3) years for use of its community facilities for a 3 three (3) year period.

Expressions of Interest are considered by Council staff based on a range of criteria that includes:

·  The legal status of an organisation

·  The nature of the services offered to the community

·  The number of residents within the LGA that are serviced by the organisation

·  The location of the organisation’s operations

·  The financial capacity of the organisation

In general terms, organisations delivering services to targets or marginalised community groups are afforded priority of access.

For Sporting fields, Council enters one of three (3) agreements:

·  A Casual Hire Agreement for one-off bookings

·  A Seasonal Hire Agreement for shared use facilities; and/or

·  A Licence Agreement for up to 5 years for exclusive facility use.

Council receives application for sporting ground use every six months for the following seasonal period.

The feedback from community groups is that the current process is cumbersome in nature.

Permissibility

Council’s Community Facilities Generic Plan of Management 2005 (PoM) and Generic Sportsground Plan of Management are the guiding documents that intended to demonstrate that Council satisfy the obligations contained in the Local Government Act 1993. The PoMs provides a framework for the long-term management of Sporting facilities and Community Facilities erected on land classified as ‘community’ land and ‘crown’ reserves in Liverpool City Council.  The Generic Plans of Management contains most of the Council’s Community Facilities noting that in some cases, individual PoMs for specific sites have been developed.

The Local Government Act 1993 restricts leases or licenses over community land. Leases or licenses for a period of five (5) years or more have limitations imposed on them with the maximum period that leases or licenses can be granted for is 21 years. 

Importantly, PoM’s permit Council to enter a licence, lease or other such instrument consistent with the specifications contained within the Local Government Act 1993. 

In general terms, and for the purpose of this report, the Plans of Management, while acknowledging the need to update, meet the required statutory obligations.  A further Report specifically related to Plans of Management will be provided to Council for consideration.

Summary of Policy Changes

The current policy framework and associated implementation processes required to hire a community facility on a perpetual basis is both cumbersome and complex in nature for its intended purpose.

To improve the effective implementation of the governance framework the following changes are recommended:

1.      Establishment of a Community Facility Hire Policy

There is currently no Policy that defines the intended purpose of Council’s Community Facilities.  The establishment of a Community Facilities Hire Policy will define the strategic objectives of the venues and allow an effective framework for implementation and assist in the decision-making process.

The cluster of documents that form Council’s Conditions of Hire (listed above) can be streamlined and incorporated into the Conditions of Hire forming the agreement between Council and the Hirer. 

A copy of the proposed policy is to be tabled.

2.      Establishment of Sporting Grounds and Passive Parks Hire Policy

The current Hire of Playing Surface Policy acts to define the governance and operational requirement. To ensure consistency with the Community Facilities Hire Policy, the establishment of a Sporting Grounds and Passive Park Hire Policy will define the strategic objectives of Council’s Sportsgrounds and Passive Parks and assist in decision making. 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Costs associated with this recommendation have been included in Council’s budget for the current year and long-term financial plan.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	There are no economic and financial considerations.
Environment	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities. Provide cultural centres and activities for the enjoyment of the arts. Support community organisations, groups and volunteers to deliver coordinated services to the community.
Civic Leadership	Deliver services that are customer focused.
Legislative	Local Government Act 1993 (Division 2 – Part 2 – Section 35) and (Division 12 – Part 1 – Section 356) Local Government (General) Regulations 2021 (Division 5 – Part 2 – Section 49) Generic Plan of Management: Community Facilities, 2005 Crown Land Management Act 2006
Risk	The risk is deemed to be Low.

ATTACHMENTS

To be tabled

1

Governance Committee Meeting

13 August 2024

Strategic Priorities Committee Report

ITEM 04

Library Collection Development Policy

Strategic Objective	Healthy, Inclusive, Engaging Support an inclusive community by fostering access and equity for all
File Ref	258503.2024
Report By	Elysa Dennis - Manager Library & Museum Services
Approved By	Tina Bono - Director Community & Lifestyle

Executive Summary

The purpose of the Library Collection Development Policy is to provide a framework for the management of library collections available to the community through Liverpool City Libraries.

The library develops, maintains and provides access to collections of resources

to meet the information needs and interests of the community. This is to ensure free and equitable access to information for everyone and is reflective of the diversity of the community and wide viewpoints.

The Library Collection Development policy provides the principals for purchase, access and disposal of resources, ensuring that the library meets its legal obligations under the Library Act 1939. This policy guides staff decisions and informs community enquiries regarding the collection.

The current policy was last amended in 2012, and it reflects processes and an operational environment that is no longer relevant.  The proposed policy has been reviewed and rewritten to reflect current policy formats, processes and legislation. The revised policy focuses on core principals and outcomes, rather than prescriptive processes.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Governance Committee meeting:

1.      Recommends the proposed Library Collection Development Policy be adopted by Council; and

2.      Proceed to 28 days public exhibition.

REPORT

Background

Council’s Library Services provide education, social and recreational services to the community. This supports lifelong learning and is intended to improve the quality of life through resources and services that reflect a wide range of tastes, opinions and viewpoints.

The community places a high value on the collections provided.  With access to those collections being prioritised and reflected by the community in community surveys and consultation.

Councils in NSW operate their libraries under the Library Act 1939 in partnership with the state government through the State Library NSW.

Liverpool Council has agreed to operate its libraries in accordance with the Act and the Guidelines issued by the Library Council of NSW under the Act. In accordance with the requirements of the NSW Government Public Library Subsidy.

Section 10 of the Act sets out that access to libraries, collections, reference and information

services must be offered free of charge, and that anyone may enter a library and access

collections and information services.

Collections in Liverpool are managed in accordance with the Access to Information in NSW Public Libraries Guideline, issued by the Library Council of NSW under s10 (5) of the Act.

Collection Management 

The Council’s library collections are a significant asset and are carefully managed by qualified professionals to ensure they meet community objectives and legislative requirements.

They are developed regarding the different demands across the LGA.  The collection is available in physical and digital formats, in multiple languages and to reflect the wide diversity of the community interests and needs.

The Library Collection Development policy provides guidance to library staff and informs the community about the collection. It also ensures that the collection is an unbiased source of information, supporting the principles of access and equity to all members of the community essential to an informed and engaged community.

The current Library Collection Development policy was last amended in 2012.  If reflects a different environment for the provision of library services, although it follows the same principles.

Proposed Library Collection Development Policy

The proposed Library Collection Development Policy is a new policy, rather than an amendment of the current policy.  The current policy is attached for review.

The proposed policy is reflective of the legislative requirements for provision of public libraries under the Library Act 1939 (NSW).  Focused on the principals of access and equity and the library as a source of unbiased information.

Details of processes for collection management have been removed, being more suited to internal procedures and standards.

The policy will be used by library staff to define the scope of collections, assisting with contract management with suppliers. It will help ensure that the collection is representative of the whole community.

The policy also informs the community on collections decisions, helping to explain why resources are included in a collection.  It will also help to communicate the role the Australian Classification Board guidelines on access to resources in the Australian environment.

The proposed policy is representative of current standards and guidelines for NSW Public Libraries.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Costs associated with this recommendation have been included in Council’s budget for the current year and long-term financial plan.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic	There are no economic and financial considerations.
Environment	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities. Provide cultural centres and activities for the enjoyment of the arts. Promote community harmony and address discrimination. Support access and services for people with a disability. Deliver high quality services for children and their families.
Civic Leadership	Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision-making processes. Deliver services that are customer focused.
Legislative	Library Act 1939 (NSW) Library Regulations 2018 (NSW) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) 1995 (Cth) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 (NSW)
Risk	The risk is deemed to be Low

ATTACHMENTS

1.         Collection Development and Information Access Policy 2012

2.         Draft Library Collection Development Policy 2024

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ITEM 04	Library Collection Development Policy
Attachment 1	Collection Development and Information Access Policy 2012

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ITEM 04	Library Collection Development Policy
Attachment 2	Draft Library Collection Development Policy 2024