Housing affordability and infrastructure issues have reached a critical juncture in our community. With property prices soaring and our infrastructure deteriorating, the NSW government is considering invoking State Significant Development (SSD) proposals to address these pressing challenges.

While SSDs offer a fast-tracked approval process for large infrastructure projects, essential housing developments, and major commercial initiatives, they also present potential risks. These include reduced public participation and insufficient environmental assessments. Additionally, governance structures specifically designed to expedite processes can stifle innovation and exacerbate existing issues. We are at a crossroads; business as usual (BAU) will not bring the necessary change, and rushing BAU will make matters worse.

The recent announcement of the Unlocking Bombo Quarry project illustrates the importance of community involvement. This project, while still in the planning stages, aims to transform the quarry into a sustainable community, balancing heritage preservation with future growth. By participating in the Social Impact Assessment study and providing feedback, residents can help shape the project's development to meet local needs and preferences.

Several SSDs have been promoted as being successful in Australia and demonstrate the potential benefits of well-managed projects:

1. Sydney Olympic Park: Developed for the 2000 Olympic Games, this area has since become a thriving community with residential, commercial, and recreational facilities, showcasing successful long-term planning and development.
2. Darling Harbour: This redevelopment transformed the area into a major entertainment and tourism precinct, offering economic and social benefits to Sydney.
3. Barangaroo: A waterfront renewal project in Sydney that created a vibrant commercial and residential area, incorporating significant green spaces and public facilities.
4. Coffs Harbour Bypass: Designed to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, this project highlights how infrastructure improvements can enhance local communities.
5. Harbourside Shopping Centre Development: Includes a new retail shopping centre, residential apartment tower, and public domain improvements, demonstrating the benefits of mixed-use development.

While there are benefits, it is essential to be wary of the potential downsides of SSDs:

• Rushed Processes: SSDs are designed to expedite approvals, but this can lead to inadequate consideration of environmental and social impacts. Rushing projects often results in cutting corners and overlooking critical issues.
• Externalized Costs: Many large projects externalize costs, hiding the true environmental and social expenses. This can lead to long-term consequences for the community and the environment.
• Innovation Stifling: Governance structures that prioritise speed over thoroughness can hinder innovative solutions and sustainable practices. Projects need to be well-planned and inclusive to foster innovation.
• Community Disengagement: Reduced public participation can result in projects that do not fully address community needs or concerns. Engaging the community is crucial for ensuring that developments are beneficial and sustainable.

The Bombo Quarry project presents an opportunity to set a new standard for community engagement and sustainable development. This project does not need to be rushed. It is pivotal and has the potential to establish toolkits, blueprints, pilots, and case studies that support communities and institutions. By leveraging applications, digital products, and civic technologies, we can challenge established thought and demonstrate that an alternative is possible.

This is a great opportunity for our community to get actively involved and be part of designing the future we want to see. Everyone deserves a roof over their head and access to quality infrastructure.  Let’s engage with our leaders, participate in the planning process, and hold them accountable for creating a liveable, inclusive, and sustainable future for all.

To participate in the Social Impact Assessment process, visit Unlocking Bombo Quarry.