Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said a proposal to transform part of Penrith Lakes into a movie mecca is on track, with changes to planning rules set to pave the way for a $150M film production precinct.
“Who needs Hollywood Hills when we’ve got Penrith Lakes? NSW is home to some of the best film production crews in the world, so it’s fitting they have a place to call home in Greater Sydney,” Mr Stokes said.
“If approved, this 41-hectare precinct would include up to 10 production stages, filming tanks, construction and design facilities, as well as a film school.
“It would create up to 300 construction jobs over three years and once completed, the site would employ up to 2,000 people on major movie projects.”
The development would be made possible by a proposed amendment to the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) for Penrith Lakes, now on public exhibition.
The amendment also proposes:
• An 18-hole golf course;
• A new heliport for Sydney Helicopters, currently based at Granville, with flight path access south of the Richmond (RAAF) Control Zone; and
• The heritage listing of the historic Landers Inn, enabling uses such as tourist accommodation.
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said it was an exciting venture and would be a win for the film industry, Western Sydney and the people of Penrith.
“This is a fantastic result for Penrith that will bring jobs and investment while activating a beautiful part of Western Sydney,” Mr Ayres said.
“The heritage listing of the Landers Inn is really important because it will ensure the building is protected while giving the public greater access to a historic local building.
“Importantly, the plan also ensures flood evacuation will be considered for all land use proposals within the Penrith Lakes Scheme.”
To view the draft amendment and have your say by September 26, visit: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/penrithlakessepp
