A bold vision for Canberra's future is taking shape, and it's not just about bricks and mortar. The East Lake Railway Precinct renewal program is set to transform a key area of the city, and it's got the backing of some serious cash. With a $2.8 million injection from the federal government, this urban renewal project is poised to create a vibrant, multi-faceted community. But here's where it gets controversial... the plan includes a new railway station, promising to be a game-changer for Canberra's transport network.
Local MPs David Smith and Andrew Leigh, along with Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King and Chief Minister Andrew Barr, gathered at Canberra Railway Station to announce this exciting development. The funding, part of the Australian Government's $150 million Urban Precincts and Partnerships Program (uPPP), will support the planning and design of an area that's expected to accommodate 5000 new dwellings.
But it's not just about housing. The Kingston precinct is set to become a hub for new businesses, creating over a thousand jobs across various industries. And this is the part most people miss... the former landfill area in the north-west corner will be transformed into community and cultural facilities, adding a unique and vibrant dimension to the precinct.
Chief Minister Andrew Barr emphasized the importance of the new railway station, which will be a key component of a multi-modal transport hub for Canberra. He believes it's time to renew the NSW-owned railway station, arguing that it doesn't reflect the status of the national capital.
"Under this fantastic partnership with the Commonwealth government, we'll see the next stages of work completed, and construction can begin on various residential, commercial, and industrial projects," Barr said.
The East Lake urban renewal area is expected to see its first land releases in the Causeway precinct in 2026-27. Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King highlighted the crucial role of planning in these projects, aiming to create connected suburbs that are decent places to live and work.
"The Urban Precincts and Partnerships program focuses on urban redesign and the reuse of areas, particularly inner-city suburbs that need unlocking for housing, community facilities, and sporting facilities," King explained.
According to the East Lake Place Plan, the Railway Precinct will feature a mix of commercial, residential, and public buildings, mostly ranging from four to six storeys, with strategic eight-storey marker developments. Barr believes the construction of housing and the new station should go hand in hand, creating a seamless multi-modal transport hub.
"We want to see a transport hub here that caters to various modes of transport. It's on a major rapid bus route, and it's where the train from Sydney arrives. I believe we can do better, and the NSW Government agrees," Barr said.
With the market deciding the housing mix, Barr expects a diverse range of options, including public, community, and build-to-rent housing, as well as accommodation for key workers. The project participants, including the Suburban Land Agency, NSW Government, developers, the Woodlands and Wetlands Trust, and the Canberra Institute of Technology, are all set to bring this vision to life.
So, what do you think? Is this urban renewal project a step in the right direction for Canberra? Will it create a vibrant, connected community? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
