Penrith, soon to be one of Australia’s most connected cities, was the perfect place for technology players big and small to meet last week and discuss the digital future of Western Sydney.
Infrastructure NSW hosted the industry briefing, which drew together 250 members of the technology sector to learn about opportunities to co-develop digital infrastructure and services under the Western Sydney City Deal.
A truly digital Western Sydney will deliver a wide range of benefits to current businesses and future investors, with advanced technology forecast to support the creation of 200,000 new jobs across a wide range of industries over the next 20 years.
Artificial intelligence, robotics, broadband and 5G telecommunications and the use of smart data systems will generate new businesses, attract investment and stimulate innovation to meet future demand.
Situated at the heart of ongoing government and industry investment and with 4,000ha of available land at the Northern Gateway Precinct, on the doorstep of the new Western Sydney Airport, Penrith provides the ideal location for these opportunities to be realised.
Now is the time to tap into the potential and secure a place in Penrith. Find out how at PenrithNewWest.com.au.
Pictured: Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM speaks at the Digital Western Parkland City Industry Briefing.
Investment in Nepean River reaches $89 million
Over recent years, $89 million has been secured for upgrades along the iconic Nepean River, enhancing Penrith’s liveability, stimulating the local economy, and providing residents and visitors with new opportunities to enjoy one of the City’s favourite places.
The latest funding boost - $10 million from the State Government - will deliver the next stage of Council’s Our River Masterplan and will include the development of a new wharf precinct at Tench Reserve, transforming one of the river’s best vantage points with better pedestrian access and a new promenade that makes the slopes of the river completely accessible.
The announcement closely follows $15 million in government funding secured by Council under the Western Sydney City Deal’s Liveability program, for upgrades to Regatta Park. Council will also contribute $9 million towards the project.
Last year, almost $6 million was committed by the State and Federal Government to provide new boat ramp facilities at Tench reserve, with this work scheduled for completion by mid-2019.
On top of these transformative projects, Penrith’s $49 million new pedestrian bridge – the Yandhai Nepean Crossing – was opened in November last year; a further investment in the City by the State Government.
The delivery of these projects is the result of the Penrith community’s vision for the river that is brought to life in Council’s Our River Masterplan. This document was developed through careful planning and community consultation over a number of years. The Masterplan informs Council’s ongoing work to enhance the Nepean River, to better link this stunning natural asset to the City Centre, and invigorate economic activity across Penrith.
Half a billion dollars to strengthen Penrith's transport connections
An extra half a billion dollars will be invested in major road upgrades to make it even easier to live and do business in Penrith.
Further to these significant road upgrades, under the Western Sydney City Deal, the State and Federal Governments have also committed to fund stage one of the North South Rail Link; a vital piece of infrastructure that will connect the businesses, workers and residents of Penrith to the new Western Sydney Airport from day one of operations.
With unprecedented levels of government investment in road and rail upgrades set to enhance connectivity, coupled with the new international Western Sydney Airport on our doorstep, Penrith is positioned to become an increasingly important destination for growth and opportunity and a focal point for jobs and services.
Pictured: (L to R) Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM joins Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres and Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne at the sod turn of the Mulgoa/Castlereagh Roads upgrade.
Penrith is a place of progressive partnerships
Council’s strong support of local business continues to provide more opportunities for collaboration, joint advocacy, local employment and sustained economic growth.
Speaking to over 60 local businesses this week, at the launch of Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 networking series, Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said partnership lies at the heart of Council’s New West vision for Penrith and is integral to maximising the benefits of the once-in-a-generation government investment taking place across the region, especially as a result of the Western Sydney City Deal.
“With City Deal commitments rolling out and the Western Sydney Airport and Sydney Science Park taking shape, our region is experiencing a once-in-a-generation transformation. Penrith is on the rise and at the dawn of an exciting era of progress,” Cr Fowler said.
With 10,000 new local jobs created over the last five years, Council’s strong partnership with the local business community, through the Chamber of Commerce and the Penrith CBD Corporation, is fostering a healthy local economy and attracting key outside interest and investment in Penrith.
Pictured: Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce President Simon Gould with Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM at the event. Photo by Studio 1000.
Investment in the New West
The following application has recently been approved:
● Demolition of existing structures and the construction of a three storey residential flat building containing 20 apartments and basement car parking, at 104 – 108 Lethbridge Street, Penrith – estimated cost of work $3 million (pictured).
A city of pride and progress; a region of opportunity, connected to the markets and infrastructure of tomorrow. Penrith is the lifestyle and economic heartland for the new Western Sydney Airport and Aerotropolis. We are advancing industry and employment with unrivalled liveability, skilled workers and natural attractions.
