with Warren Kirby MP

In the epicentre of the Northwest Growth Area , Riverstone has undergone immense transformation in the last five years . Yet our roads , healthcare , transport and schools remain reminiscent of a bygone era . The inadequacy of these vital services is not merely an inconvenience ; it poses a life-threatening risk , particularly during emergencies like floods .

The recent decision by the Government to halt the draft planning proposals for rezoning Riverstone Town Centre , along with Schofields West and Marsden Park North , is a response to updated flood modelling in early 2021 . The Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley flood evacuation modelling report of May 2023 , commissioned by the previous Government but never made public , exposed the extent of the former Government ’ s failures .

The Minns-Labor Government , upon reviewing the same data , has promptly made the report public and allocated funds to rectify critical road infrastructure gaps , prioritising the safety of our community . Unlike the previous Government , we ’ re committed to transparency , honest communication and decisive action .

While out of my control , the decision

to halt the Town Centre has left many residents disheartened . A Masterplan for Riverstone Town Centre , under consideration since 2014 , has become a critical necessity . The previous residentialfocused proposal no longer suited the needs of our community .

The Minns Government recognises the opportunity to create a town centre that can support the growing population , shifting the focus from residential to employment generation . A masterplan that prioritises local job opportunities will not only foster economic growth but also alleviate traffic congestion and promote a more balanced and sustainable community .

Put simply , we see the opportunity for a Masterplan informed by local voices to service local residents .

Surrounding the Riverstone Town Centre , new residential developments lack local employment opportunities , presenting a chance to position Riverstone as a hub for job creation in the region . A shift toward a service-focused Masterplan will make Riverstone more liveable , with local jobs leading to local spending and a comprehensive traffic management plan reducing congestion .

As someone who has called Riverstone home throughout my life , I know how unique our community ’ s

challenges are . A Masterplan that seeks to alleviate these challenges can ’ t be informed by a desk jockey in Martin Place , but by community members who live with them every single day . It is time for considered planning built on consultation , preserving the character of our rich and vibrant community while dressing us up for the future .

The NSW Government has initiated a period of extensive community

consultation on the project , where residents can have their say by filling out my survey on warrenkirby . au . This platform ensures that every voice is heard in shaping the future of Riverstone , fostering a collaborative approach that values community input in the decisionmaking process .

Together , let us build a Riverstone that we , and our new neighbours , can all be proud to call home .