Land sale supports West Dapto’s bright future

Long-term plans to deliver purpose-built social, recreational and cultural amenities for the West Dapto release area are one step closer, following the recent sale of Council-owned land at 231 Sheaffes Road in Stream Hill.

The land had been purchased by Council more than 30 years ago. The intention at the time was that the land would be held on to for potential redevelopment and environmental protection. In 2022, Council resolved to sell the 38.62ha site as a way to contribute to housing supply in the city.

“This is an exciting milestone for the city and one that delivers two significant benefits,’’ Wollongong City Council General Manager Greg Doyle said.

“Firstly, the sale of this land will allow for the potential for more housing to enter the pipeline and provide the opportunity for more people to have access to homes.

“Secondly, the proceeds from the sale of this land will go towards Council’s plans to deliver new social, recreational and cultural amenities for this fast-growing area.

“It’s essential that plans for this area are made holistically, For Council, that’s not just about having land available for houses to be built on, but having diverse infrastructure that will support the liveability of this area into the long term.’’

The site sold for $29m with final settlement scheduled for mid-2025.

Read more about the land sale: Council-owned land at Stream Hill for sale

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said the land sale’s timing was ideal as it came as Council were preparing to discuss the upcoming Draft Delivery Program 2022-2026 and Operational Plan 2024-2025.

“One of the significant items within the Draft Delivery Program is allocation of budget for the design and construction of the first stage of the Darkes Road Sport and Community Hub,’’ Cr Bradbery said.

“The sale of the land at Sheaffes Road makes it possible for Council to consider the inclusion of the Sporting Hub in our short and long-term planning documents, and move forward with this exciting asset for our whole community. Make no mistake, the sporting hub will benefit residents from right across our Local Government Area.

“This is a really exciting moment for the city, and demonstrates how Council works to deliver short-term and long-term projects that always seek to improve Wollongong’s liveability.’’