The NSW Government has extended an invitation to the Illawarra community to contribute their perspectives on the draft plans for the Warrawong Plaza in Wollongong. This initiative proposes rezoning to modify planning controls for 42-65 Cowper St, Warrawong (Warrawong Plaza), facilitating the creation of 1,300 new homes, including 10% designated as affordable housing.

Part of a pilot program initiated by the previous Government and announced on 14 July 2023, this proposal is one of four undergoing assessment through the State-Assessed Planning Proposal pilot. The program aims to bolster housing supply and diversity in NSW via State-led Rezoning efforts.

Key features of the proposal include the potential for 1,300 new homes, with 130 earmarked for affordable housing, to be distributed across 12 residential towers. This involves an increase in maximum building height from eight to 22 storeys. The existing retail floor space, approximately 50,000 square metres, must be maintained as part of the non-residential floor space.

The project is expected to generate 540 full-time equivalent jobs during construction, along with another 540 full-time equivalent operational jobs. It aims to facilitate the continued operation of the current shopping centre, integrating open spaces amidst the towers. Retail services will also be maintained throughout the construction phase.

Given Wollongong's housing target of 9,200 new well-located homes by 2029, with over half already approved, in progress, or under construction, proposals that support the community in meeting the remaining target and delivering additional homes are encouraged.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully, emphasised the importance of community input in shaping the future of the area and ensuring that projects yield tangible benefits. He highlighted the potential of housing development in Warrawong to expand housing options and employment opportunities for residents here.