IN RESPONSE to feedback and submissions, the Australian Catholic University (ACU) has revised its concept plan for the expansion of the University's Strathfield campus, which has now been placed on public exhibition by the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure.

ACU originally sought concept plan approval to allow six buildings between two and four storeys, on-site car parking in the basement and at ground level, improved access, pedestrian linkages throughout the campus and the consolidation of student and staff numbers and hours of operation.

An environmental assessment for the development was publicly exhibited by the Department from 18 January to 14 March 2012 and more than 600 submissions were received.

ACU's response to submissions and preferred project report (PPR) incorporates a number of changes, and due to the significant public interest in the proposal, the Department is now providing an additional opportunity for the community to comment on the PPR.

The revised concept plan by ACU:

• Reduces the maximum number of students from 2400 to 2000 at any one time;
• Proposes an additional 73 parking spaces on the site;
• Modifies building heights and increase setbacks; and
• Deletes the proposed traffic lights at the intersection of Barker Road and South Street.

The Department said submissions received during the exhibition of the revised plans will be made available on its website and be carefully considered as part of its assessment of the project.

After the Department completes its assessment, the proposal will be referred to the independent Planning and Assessment Commission (PAC) to determine. The PAC will hold a public meeting as part of its consideration of the proposal.

More information is available from the Department of Planning and Infrastructure Major Projects website at <http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au/>.