IPART has released a Draft Report on the infrastructure contributions that Wollongong City Council can levy for the West Dapto Development within the West Dapto Urban Release Area. 

Tribunal Chair Carmel Donnelly said developer contributions fund services and amenities for the developing area, such as open space, stormwater, transport, infrastructure and land.

Wollongong City Council proposed to levy around $1.55 billion in contributions over 40 years to provide the infrastructure needed to service West Dapto. The area covers around 4,700 hectares and will provide infrastructure to 20,000 dwellings for a population of around 59,000 residents.

”Our analysis of the West Dapto Development Contributions Plan has found that the infrastructure costs in the plan are essential and reasonable, and that community liaison has occurred,” Ms Donnelly said.

“The recommendations we have made relate to future changes that are likely to be required following the development of a stormwater masterplan, making adjustments relating to any grant funding received following the adoption of the plan and inclusion of costs associated with land acquisition.” 

For West Dapto, the council proposed a contribution rate of around $81,000 for a typical dwelling. IPART has not recommended any changes to the contribution rate. 

The Draft Report is available on IPART’s website.

Media Contact: Mark O’Brien, 0427 105 865, media@ipart.nsw.gov.au.