Tamworth Arcadia Estate: housing development reworked to allow for 750 more lots

The huge housing development, called Arcadia Estate, will sit on the southern side of town near Warwick and Bylong roads.

It's been in the works for five years, but now Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) thinks it can make better use of the land and hopes the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) and the Minister for Planning, Industry and Environment will agree.

The council argues the current zoning and minimum lot sizes don't use the land effectively in what will be one of Tamworth's key future residential areas.

One of the new provisions would require a minimum of ten homes per hectare across the entire site, with a maximum of 2,350 lots.

A report to the councillors argues the current minimum lot size and zoning could restrict the availability of high-quality residential land close to the CBD.

Lot sizes would be reduced from 600m2 to 450m2, "to provide flexibility for developers whilst ensuring housing diversity targets are achieved," it said.

"This is important when considering the impact of urban sprawl, future population growth and capital cost associated with the provision of infrastructure.

"This will ensure a variety of lot sizes and housing types are developed to cater for the growing needs of the community."

A commercial centre included in the plans would house a supermarket, specialty retail, food and drink premises and medium density housing.

Read also:

The councillors will vote on Tuesday to ask DPIE for a gateway determination and if that's granted the plans will go on public exhibition.

In 2018, TRC spent $350,000 to buy several parcels of land to start work on road widening, drainage and wastewater infrastructure for the estate.

It's expected to house more than 5000 residents and is a crucial development in the Blueprint 100 plan and the New England North West Regional Plan 2036 prepared by DPIE.

Arcadia was first identified as a potential growth area for residential development as part of the planning process for South Tamworth in 2012.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: