A new $1 billion development at Wyndham Vale is being hailed as part of a “suburb of the future” by Planning Minister Matthew Guy.
Mr Guy launched Lend Lease’s 435-hectare Harpley estate on Black Forest Road last Thursday, saying it would provide houses for about 12,000 residents.
The estate will be built over the next 12 years.
As reported by Star Weekly, the development was given the green light in July after the state government approved a $533 million developer contribution plan for Wyndham’s west.
The plan outlined contributions that will be made by Wyndham council, the government and developers to fund key infrastructure in the area.
Plans for Harpley include 4000 new houses, transport links, community facilities, more than 60 hectares of lakes and wetlands, a waterfront town centre, and three schools.
The estate will have direct access from the Princes Freeway via Armstrong Road and a bridge over the railway line, easing congestion on Cottrell Street.
“Harpley will be part of a suburb of the future that is within a commutable distance of a major employment precinct [at East Werribee],” Mr Guy said.
“This is a place for Melbourne’s future … this is a new suburb for families.”
Wyndham mayor Bob Fairclough said the inclusion of two primary schools and a secondary school in the estate was a win for Wyndham families.
“We’re struggling as a council to keep pace with population growth in Wyndham,’’ he said. ‘‘Last week, I met with 50 school principals, who made it clear that education resources were struggling. We simply don’t have enough schools.”
Lend Lease state communities general manager Neil O’Connor said Harpley would have amenities to help people live a happy and healthy lifestyle.
“We’ve already partnered with … Wyndhamvale Football Club and Werribee Football Club and we’re excited to watch them grow and succeed over the next few years alongside Harpley,” he said.
Stage one of the development will include the wetlands and a cultural park.
