The project to rebuild the 19-hectare Waterloo estate,built in the 1970s,has long been the subject of significant dispute between the state government,residents and the City of Sydney Council.
The redevelopment,affecting about 2000 tenants,is considered one of the largest social housing estate renewals in the world.
Planning Minister Anthony Roberts said the Waterloo South rezoning approval would allow for the provision of 847 social housing dwellings – nearly 100 more than the existing amount – and 227 affordable homes for low-income workers. Social housing includes public housing and community housing run by non-government providers. Nearly 2000 homes will be private dwellings.
“The planning control changes mean we can begin the next stage of the project and support the delivery of new social and affordable housing,as well as private homes and new public space,” Roberts said.
“This is about breathing new life into an old social housing estate to support the needs of the growing number of people who call – or want to call – Waterloo home.”
Ten per cent of social and affordable homes will be dedicated Aboriginal housing. The plans include a 2.2-hectare public park next to the metro station,which is under construction.