The New South Wales Government has announced the formation of a new independent advisory committee to guide the creation of great places across the state.
Placemaking may be defined as ‘the process of creating quality places that people want to live, work, play and learn in’ [1].
The Placemaking NSW Advisory Committee, chaired by former Federal Minister Helen Coonan, is expected to provide strategic advice on the management of precincts including The Rocks, Darling Harbour and Sydney Olympic Park, and provide guidance on the work of the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC).
Planning and Public Spaces Minister, Rob Stokes, said the coordinated oversight will deliver better outcomes for the people of NSW.
“This is an exciting opportunity to bring together the best private sector expertise with the foremost experts in the Department to set a strategic vision that delivers places that drive growth and investment opportunities, and delight the people who inhabit them right across NSW,” Mr Stokes said.
“The new advisory committee will support our ongoing efforts to streamline the planning, development and activation functions that enable the creation of great public, community, residential and commercial spaces.”
The Placemaking NSW Advisory Committee will be made up of seven members, and capitalise on the expertise and experience of the former Sydney Olympic Park Authority and Place Management NSW boards.
Advisory Committee Chair, Helen Coonan, said the committee will help inject new life and ideas into the management and operation of Placemaking NSW.
“The Advisory Committee is a splendid opportunity to provide strategic advice and support to the Government’s vision for a more proactive and integrated approach to placemaking across the arc of planning delivery, precinct management, design, public spaces and place excellence,” Ms Coonan said.
Advisory Committee members include: Helen Coonan (Chair); David Borger; Bridget Smyth; Tony McCormick; Romilly Madew; Sam Romaniuk; Alex O’Mara.