Planning for future infrastructure corridors is essential for delivering the large-scale projects NSW will need in the future. This planning process often involves multiple phases over many years and includes protecting land from conflicting development.
Land corridors reserved for future transport and other infrastructure are protected under Chapter 4 of the Transport and Infrastructure State Environmental Planning Policy.
Planning guidance for infrastructure agencies
The Planning Guideline for Major Infrastructure Corridors (PDF, 1.2 MB) assists infrastructure agencies with the corridor planning process, from initial investigations through to final protection measures.
Effective corridor planning prevents costly delays and community disruption when delivering major infrastructure. Early planning and protection of corridors ensures infrastructure can be delivered when it’s needed.
The Guideline offers:
- Advice on preparing the right information and level of detail for projects.
- Guidance on when specific project information is needed.
- Information on available planning tools and how the Department uses them.
Interim use of corridors
Interim corridor uses let communities benefit from economic activities, public spaces, and urban design projects while land awaits infrastructure delivery. This stops land sitting empty for years and helps landowners generate income similar to neighbouring properties. Development must be temporary but can run short or long term, depending on when the infrastructure is scheduled.
Chapter 4 of the Policy establishes a planning pathway, including which state agencies need to be consulted and when, that can be utilised.
Corridor protection
Chapter 4 of the Policy establishes planning rules for protected corridors. This prevents development that could interfere with future infrastructure projects to avoid land acquisition or project delays.
Development within these corridors is considered based on what could previously be developed on the land, compatibility with future infrastructure and timing of infrastructure delivery.
Protected corridors
- Newcastle future infrastructure corridor
- Greater Parramatta future underground infrastructure corridor
- Lower Hunter freight corridor
- North-south rail line and South-west link extension
- Western Sydney freight line and intermodal terminal
The Outer Sydney Orbital – stage one corridor is under consideration.
Resources and support
- Transport for NSW Corridor Projects – Shows corridor locations
- Planning Guideline for Major Infrastructure Corridors (PDF, 1.2 MB)
- Planning reforms delivering infrastructure faster – summary of changes (PDF, 386 KB)
- Transport and Infrastructure SEPP amendment (Chapter 4 Major Infrastructure Corridors) Explanation of Intended Effect
More information
Email [email protected] for more information.