A $141.5 million redevelopment proposal by Waverley College has sparked objections from local residents and transport authorities over potential traffic congestion and infrastructure challenges.
The plan, which includes upgraded facilities and a student enrolment increase of over 200, has raised concerns about its impact on surrounding streets and public transport capacity.
Redevelopment Plans and Increased Enrolments
The proposed expansion (SSD-42425537) would modernise Waverley College’s facilities, incorporating a new six-storey building, improved sporting areas, a wellbeing centre, and a library upgrade. A key feature of the plan is the Science & Innovation Centre, designed to provide purpose-built laboratories, including spaces dedicated to marine studies and engineering.
The project would increase student enrolments by 266, bringing the total to over 1,500. According to the school, the development is necessary to meet growing demand and to replace outdated facilities that have remained largely unchanged for three decades.
Waverley College has been actively fundraising to support the initiative. A recent school event generated over $40,000, and the upcoming 2025 Blue & Gold Ball on 16 August 2025 is expected to further contribute to funding the master plan.
Transport Challenges and Community Concerns
The NSW transport authority has raised concerns over the lack of detailed plans addressing traffic flow around the school. Current drop-off and pick-up areas may not be sufficient to accommodate the expected increase in students. Any adjustments to bus services would be subject to staffing and funding constraints.
Local residents and Waverley officials have also expressed concerns about congestion, particularly during peak hours. Submissions to planning authorities have highlighted existing road infrastructure struggles, with the potential for further disruptions if the expansion proceeds. Some community members believe the added vehicle movement could create safety risks for pedestrians and worsen parking shortages in the area.
While the school has proposed sustainability measures, including promoting public transport use and increasing bike parking spaces, the authorities remain unconvinced that these steps would significantly reduce the reliance on cars.
School’s Position and Future Steps
Waverley College has maintained that the project is designed primarily to improve educational facilities rather than simply increase enrolments. The school asserts that existing traffic arrangements are functioning efficiently. The planned development would introduce state-of-the-art learning spaces to benefit students.
The proposal remains under assessment as part of a state significant development application, with authorities reviewing public submissions before making a final decision. As the review continues, the debate remains focused on whether the proposed benefits of the expansion outweigh the potential challenges for local infrastructure and transport networks.
Published 25-Feb-2025