Planning for major infrastructure corridors is an important process to enable the delivery of large infrastructure projects needed in the future. Major infrastructure corridor planning can involve a number of phases over many years.
A new planning guideline for major infrastructure corridors has been drafted to assist infrastructure agencies with the infrastructure corridor planning process. This includes:
- preparing the right information and detail for projects
- an outline of when certain project information is needed
- guidance on planning tools and the department’s approach to using these tools.
The guideline specifies the planning tools infrastructure agencies can use at each stage of the corridor planning process. It is not a set of rules, however provides a suggested pathway to planning for and protecting infrastructure corridors.
More detail on the planning process for corridors can be found in the Planning Guideline for Major Infrastructure Corridors (PDF, 1.2 MB).
Corridor protection
The corridors of land set aside for future transport or other major infrastructure are protected in Chapter 4 of the State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021, which is also known as the Transport and Infrastructure SEPP.
Interim use of corridors
We are amending the Transport and Infrastructure SEPP to permit the temporary use of corridor land.
The aim is to allow economic, urban design and public space initiatives on corridor land before infrastructure is delivered.
We exhibited an explanation of intended effects (EIE) from 22 August to 19 September 2022 and invited feedback. We are now considering your submissions.
Lower Hunter Freight Corridor
Transport for NSW has finalised the location of the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor between Fassifern and Hexham after consulting the community.
The NSW Government will reduce travel times and create a more reliable rail network for passengers and freight.
To support the finalised corridor, the Department of Planning and Environment has safeguarded the land from future development. The design and operation of the rail line will require separate approval.
Visit the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor page for more information.
Western Sydney rail and road corridors
In 2018, Transport for NSW proposed 5 corridors for future transport infrastructure. These will support the growing population of western Sydney. Transport for NSW exhibited a discussion paper and invited submissions.
Three corridors have now been finalised, one is being considered and one has been withdrawn.
Finalised
- South-west rail link extension
- Western Sydney freight line – stage one
- North-south rail line – being used by metro Western Sydney Airport (delivery).
Being considered
Outer Sydney orbital – stage one.
Withdrawn
The corridor for the Bells Line of Road–Castlereagh connection has been withdrawn.
For more information visit Transport for NSW – Corridor projects.