The Sydney Business Chamber says the $300 million transformation plan for Kensington and Kingsford is a great example of how centres can thrive with the addition of modern light rail.

Executive Director of the Sydney Business Chamber, Patricia Forsythe said, “It is good to see Randwick City Council taking control of its town centre and realising the benefits that can come from the light rail project.

“The value uplift for the 2.5 kilometre Anzac Parade strip is a direct consequence of the light rail project.”

Randwick City Council on Tuesday night endorsed a draft strategy to transform Anzac Parade in Kensington and Kingsford into an ideas hub with community centres, exhibition spaces and an innovation centre to encourage creative start-up businesses.

The $300 million plan proposes modest increases in heights and densities and includes 54,000 sqm of new commercial space, more than 1000 new jobs and about 1500 new homes are also proposed.

”It is an affirmation that light rail can bring jobs and economic investment to towns and cities.

“Randwick City Council has recognised centres have to refresh to survive, so this draft strategy will create new economic opportunities for Kensington and Kingsford,” Mrs Forsythe said.

NSW Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said he was pleased to see a strong forward planning approach around the new light rail system.

“Modern light rail services in Kensington and Kingsford will see the area completely transformed, becoming more popular and accessible than ever before,” he said.

“This approach will help maximise the opportunities that will come for businesses and residents in the area.”

The CBD and South East Light Rail network is currently under construction, with the 12-kilometre route featuring 19 stops, from Circular Quay to Central Station, through to Surry Hills to Moore Park before reaching Kensington and Kingsford via Anzac Parade and to Randwick via Alison Road and High Street.
Construction of the light rail will finish in 2019.