The rezoning has amended planning controls in the Cleveland Road precinct to enable the delivery of 225 new homes.

West Dapto is considered a strategically significant location for development as one of the State’s fastest-growing residential areas outside of Sydney, with strong transport links and amenities.

Stages 1 and 2 were rezoned for new homes in 2010 and are currently under development. Much of the stage 3 precinct was rezoned in March 2024, for up to 2,275 new homes.

The rezoning was split into two parts to allow the City of Wollongong Council and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to address flooding issues.

Those issues have been resolved through collaboration between the Department and Council on an updated Flood Impact and Risk Assessment report. The preparation of a Neighbourhood Plan for the precinct and the development assessment process will ensure that flooding is further assessed prior to development occurring. 

The rezoning follows earlier investment in the area with $20 million for the construction of the Cleveland Road upgrade connecting the West Dapto Urban Release Area to both the Princes Highway and the M1 Motorway.

This part of the Illawarra continues to grow, with Dapto a location in the Government’s Transport Oriented Development policy and the affordable housing bonus scheme.

More information on the rezoning can be found at: https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ppr/finalisation/cleveland-road-west-dapto

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“The Minns Labor government is focused on delivering for Wollongong and the Illawarra.

“It is hugely exciting to know this rezoning will help get more people into homes sooner and continue the area’s growth for the future. 

“Our investments in the region will improve people’s lives with a focus on building better communities with more homes and jobs.”

Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said:

“Our region is one of the fastest-growing in the state due to its prime location and boundless natural beauty.

“Hard-working locals need housing delivered with the right supporting infrastructure, so I am delighted to see the final part of this West Dapto rezoning compliment work to upgrade Cleveland Road.

“Unlocking the West Dapto Urban Release Area is an important step forward for the Illawarra.”