8 July 2004

New agreement will cement working ties between Sydney Olympic Park and Auburn Council

The working relationship between Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA) and Auburn Council will be further strengthened with the signing of a Statement of Co-operation (SOC) today Thursday 8 July 2004 at Sydney Olympic Park.

Mayor of Auburn Cr Chris Cassidy and SOPA CEO, Brian Newman said the Statement of Co-operation would enable greater collaboration between the two organisations in planning for the future development needs of the unique 640 hectare precinct which lies within the Auburn local government area.

Brian Newman said the Authority was creating a unique and integrated town which would harness the extraordinary legacy of the 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
 
"This thriving town will be built along principles of sustainability. It will not only be a great place to live but also a centre for sport, the arts, entertainment, education and events," said Brian.

Mayor of Auburn, Councillor Chris Cassidy said "the signing of this statement of co-operation enables  our organisations to complement each other and  to provide an enhanced level of service to our community.

"In doing so, we provide an excellent quality of life for our residents now and into the future. In this the Year of the Built Environment our organisations are challenged to plan today to enrich the lives of our citizens and visitors by providing innovative solutions to housing design with environmental sustainability as key features.

"This statement of co-operation will enhance access to the wonderful parklands of Sydney Olympic Park, retail shopping and a diverse range of businesses in the Auburn Local Government Area," Cr Cassidy said.

Mr Newman and Cr Cassidy agreed that the Statement of Co-operation would enable SOPA and Auburn Council to work together more effectively to build on current infrastructure and amenities.

"The SOC demonstrates our joint commitment in achieving shared economic, social and environmental objectives for the Park and for the wider community," they said.
 
Among the initiatives being considered are:

· Joint marketing of Auburn LGA and SOP to harvest potential investment opportunities including the Carter Street Precinct as a significant business park and commercial interface;
· Improving the sporting amenities in Wilson Park;
· Developing a community based child care centre and a public library;
· Improving local wildlife corridors including those around Haslams Creek and other environmental initiatives.
· Enhancing the Bennelong and Hill Roads into user friendly thoroughfares for pedestrians and cyclists as well as vehicles. 
· Building on the success of the joint Australia Day celebrations with sponsorship of art, entertainment and cultural events including the Auburn Festival.