Bradfield City Centre: A New Era for NSW Development

The New South Wales Government has given the green light to the Bradfield City Centre Masterplan, paving the way for the first new city in the state in over a century. This milestone development is set to transform Western Sydney, delivering a mixed-use urban centre that will include around 10,000 new homes and more than 20,000 jobs. Positioned adjacent to the under-construction Nancy Bird Walton Airport—scheduled to open in 2026—Bradfield City will play a pivotal role in Western Sydney’s Aerotropolis.

The Bradfield City Centre will span 114 hectares and integrate commercial, light industrial, residential, and open spaces, providing a new blueprint for urban development in the region. The NSW Government’s plan promises to create a vibrant and sustainable city, designed to foster innovation, culture, and creativity, while ensuring that the green environment remains a focal point for the community.

At the heart of this project is a commitment to sustainability and urban resilience. With over 2 million square metres of commercial and retail space, the city centre will become a hub for businesses, technology, and cultural activities. A key feature of the masterplan is its emphasis on public open spaces, which will cover more than 36 hectares. Central to this vision is a 2-hectare park located next to the Metro and bus interchange, as well as an integrated swimming area along Moore Gully and a major events space on Thompsons Creek.

Bradfield City will also address the growing demand for affordable housing, with 10% of the 10,000 homes allocated for affordable living. The development promises to attract billions in private investment, with the NSW Government committing an initial $1 billion to kickstart the project. The first land release, a 4.8-hectare “superlot,” is currently in the expression-of-interest phase, drawing widespread local and international interest.

The Bradfield City Centre has been designed with a strong focus on environmental sustainability. A remarkable 80% of rooftops will feature either gardens or bio-solar systems, helping to reduce urban heat and improve energy efficiency. This commitment to climate-resilient design is central to the masterplan, which incorporates various strategies to manage temperatures and reduce environmental impact.

One of the most innovative aspects of the Bradfield project is its integration of circular economy principles. By reducing waste, reusing resources, and promoting sustainable practices, the city is being built with the future in mind, aligning with global trends in eco-friendly urban design.

The Bradfield City Centre Masterplan is also geared towards enhancing the community’s quality of life, with essential infrastructure developments being fast-tracked in preparation for the opening of Western Sydney Airport. The development will include schools, transportation hubs, and other essential services, making it a self-sufficient urban centre that serves its diverse population.

Ken Morrison, chief executive of the Bradfield Development Authority, emphasised the importance of the Government’s approval, stating that it provides much-needed certainty for investors. “This masterplan is fundamental to driving a true legacy project at Bradfield City Centre,” he said. “It will become a vibrant, 24/7 global city, driving advancements in industry and acting as a central gathering place for arts, culture, and entertainment.”

With the NSW Government’s backing, Bradfield City Centre represents a significant leap forward for urban development in Western Sydney. It is expected to be a catalyst for economic growth and a model for sustainable, innovative city planning. As the first major privately funded development partner is appointed next year, the project is set to move forward, bringing with it new opportunities and a bright future for the region. Bradfield City Centre is not just a development; it is a bold new chapter in NSW’s urban history.