News
North West Rail
Warnings on North West Rail Ignored
http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/warnings-on-northwest-rail-link-plan-ignored-20140129-31mvw.html
Northwest Growth sector
http://www.palladium.net.au/edm/summer-2013-web.html#one
28 Aug 2013 – Hills Shire Times New performing arts stage will be built at Bella Vista Farm
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/news/new-performing-arts-stage-will-be-built-at-bella-vista-farm/story-fngr8gwi-1226705556255
This is a total joke for performing arts.
27 Aug 2013 – Hills Shire Times - The Hills Centre demolition begins to make way for rail link
The Hills Centre demolition begins to make way for rail link
27 Aug 2013 – Hills Shire Times – Editorial
Misguided Editorial saying should have put Hills Centre near coffee shops. There was no coffee shops and Castle Hill Towers until after Hills
Centre put Castle Hill on the map. Maybe the coffee shops should have been put near the Hills Centre.
RAISE VOICES FORNEWHUB
I think the editorial by David Catt is short sighted and uninformed, like so many others. It wasn't the original design of the Hills Centre that was the problem,
it was the way it has been looked after by council. The original seating in the centre was not the horrible chairs that ended up there, with extra seating added
behind poles. The sound proofing was also done with special wall and two roofs.... The acoustic boards on the ceiling to reflect the sound somehow went
missing. (probably someone helped themselves to them). The Hills Centre was built before all the cafes in the town centre in fact the Hills Centre put
Castle Hill on the map, which brought all the shops and cafes. The fact that it had good onsight parking and ability to bump in shows was what made it so
special. People could go to the theatre without parking costs, then have dinner at the restaurant. Unfortunately, council let this centre run done, and then
sold it off.
23 Aug 2013 – Hills News – Facebook page
Facebook picture - The iconic Hills Centre in Castle Hill is being knocked down as we speak. While it's a sign the North West Rail Link is really happening, The Hills Centre holds some fond memories for many... what are yours?
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=460905977349813&set=a.303159419791137.74127.257824437657969&&theater
23 August – Hills Shire Times
BREAKING NEWS: Demolition works have begun on The Hills Centre.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152175785179616&set=a.10150226443199616.387062.327196239615&&theater
Going... going.... The Hills Centre would have been 25 years old on September 10.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152175850029616&set=a.10150226443199616.387062.327196239615&&theater
16 Jul 2013
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1640738/letters-to-the-editor-july-16-2013/
16 Jul 2013
Hills Centre bricks and plaques can be claimed
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1638284/hills-centre-bricks-and-plaques-can-be-claimed/
15 Jul 2013
Vladimir Tichy’s Work Commemorated
http://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/SPContent.aspx?PageID=951&ItemID=960&count=1#.Ueahto1miSr
This needs to stay with the building.
9 Jul 2013
Call to Labour to Save the Hills Centre
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1623173/call-to-labor-to-help-save-hills-centre/
25 Jun 13
Hills Shire Times front page new on Vladimir Tichy's 30 m long mosaic
Hills Shire Times
Article on mural
Hills Shire Times
Bricks from the Hills Centre
Hills Shire Times
12 Jun 13Crazy Train | WixxyLeaks
See our Facebook page for other news.
24 Apr 2013$180 million reasons to get excited about The Hills Shire Plan
...“We will be building new roads, footpaths, playgrounds and sporting fields – as well as rejuvenating our existing assets,” Dr Byrne said....
Investigating the cultural and performing arts needs of The Shire....
This is a four year plan. In it there is no mention of replacing the Hills Centre or any performing arts centre. They are INVESTIGATING the cultural needs. We already know the Hills needs a substantial centre, so why plan to rebuild something in the future we already have now.
16 Apr 13
Front PageVenue costs too much for council
But Cr Jefferies said clearing the $38 million backlog of community infrastructure projects must come first.
‘‘When it comes down to a choice, community infrastructure like footpaths and roads and parks must take priority,’’ he said.
What about the millions of dollars they spend on sporting ovals and grass mowing? For the last 3 years council have received $100,000 a year for the Hills Centre. This $20 million includes capital costs as well as running costs. I think it would include the extra building they put on the back. Council have not been able to supply me with a document with the estimated costs yet.
Centre much too costly
If you had a business that was given to you, (ie Federal funding grant) that lost money for a while, then started to make money. Would you say I want to get rid of it, and the current managers who had invested into it now because it lost money in the past. Of course not!! You would either work toward selling the business or improving it so it makes MORE money. In actual fact, if the managers weren't doing you a service, you would get rid of them and get better managers. Don't throw the baby out with the bath water.
15 Apr 13
North West Rail Early Construction Work
Survey work commencing 22nd April
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/244
8/4/13
North West Rail Early Construction Work
External property surveys conducted in Cheriton Ave.
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/234
8/4/13
Curtain closes on Hills Performing Arts Festival
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/the-hills/curtain-closes-on-hills-performing-arts-festival/story-fngr8i1f-1226614936000
Hills Performing Arts Festival and others are being forced to close altogether. What will happen to community when it loses its culture?
3 Apr 2013Land including the Council works Depot, Hills Centre and Council chambers is acquired by LAND ACQUISITION (JUST TERMS COMPENSATION) ACT 1991- Government Gazette Week No. 20/2013 Friday, 17 May 2013.
26 Mar 2013
Hills Shire Times - Demolition job on our vital arts centre - News Local
19/3/2013
NSW Government promises 50,000 new homes, jobs around proposed North West Rail Link
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/the-hills/nsw-government-promises-50000-new-homes-jobs-around-proposed-north-west-rail-link/story-fngr8i1f-1226600707143
18/3/13
Festival forced out over centre closure
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/the-hills/sydney-west-dance-festival-forced-out-over-hills-centre-closure/story-fngr8i1f-1226599820184
This is just one of many community groups and dance groups forced out.
5/3/13
‘‘We can’t save The Hills Centre.’’
These were the words of Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian at a press conference at Castle Hill’s North West Rail Link information centre on Friday.
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1339754/minister-we-cant-save-the-hills-centre/
Of course they can, if they want to.
March 2013 - EI2 Submissions Report
See March 2013 Submissions Report Page
6/2/2013
We met with Katherine Martin to discuss the demolition of the Hills Centre. She said a decision has already been made on the demolition of the Hills Centre. She will meet with us to discuss why the decision has been made. She said that other options were considered near a sports venue.
18/1/13
North West Rail Link
EPBC Preliminary Documentation: Report on Submissions
EPBC Reference: 2012/6360
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/190
15/1/2013
THE NSW Minister Of Transport Gladys Berejiklian was reviewing the outcomes of a study into the viability of the Murwillumbah to Casino rail line.
Ms Berejiklian said it was "sensible that the government does its homework before undertaking major projects."
http://www.mydailynews.com.au/news/hold-on-a-toot-rail-study-still-coming-says-minist/1716396/
http://www.railpage.com.au/news/article-11972/
They didn't do homework with users of the Hills Centre.
8/11/12 – 22/11/12
North West Rail asked for community comment on the EI2. Obviously, over Christmas was a time when everyone was winding down and didn’t have time or resources to put in comments. The North West Rail held community forums but there was no consultation regarding the Hills Centre with any of the groups who use it. It was considered by everyone as a decision that could not be altered. The council fully support the demolition of the Hills Centre and have rezoned the land to high rise.
31/10/12 – 3/12/12
Environmental Impact Statement 2
Your invitation to learn more about Sydney’s biggest rail project
In recognition of the importance of Castle Hill Showground, the NSW Government has re‑named this railway station Showground Station. The proposed improvements to the plans for this site are part of ongoing consultation with the community and key stakeholders.http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/172
Note – NO consultation was made with 1,000’s of users of the Hills Centre.
30 October, 2012
NEW STATIONS, NEW TRAINS AND 14 MILLION FEWER CAR TRIPS – Media Release
Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian said the community will have until December 3 to have their say on the second EIS
Following community feedback over the past 18 months, key improvements to the North West Rail Link include:
No mention at all of Hills Centre being impacted.
29 Oct 2012
“The Hills Centre to be demolished for the North West Rail Link” Hills Shire Times (archived)
http://northwestrail.com.au/news_article/expand/67
23 Oct 12
Castle Hill Showground finally safe from North West Rail Link construction
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/castle-hill-showground-finally-safe-from-north-west-rail-link-construction/story-fndo317g-1226501305559
No mention of the Hills Centre being demolished to align to Carrington Rd.
22 Oct 2012
Win for Castle Hill Showground as others lose
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/412043/win-for-castle-hill-showground-as-others-lose
22 Oct 2012
Transport Nsw published a document” Modification to Showground Station (SSI-5100)” The proposed modification is associated with (Construction
Site 6 as identified in the Environmental Impact Statement for Stage 1: Major Civil Construction Works (EIS 1)) and includes:
This is hardly a minor change. This is demolishing the Hills Shire's most major asset.
18th Oct Council announced the Hills Centre was to demolished as part of the station plan
http://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/SPContent.aspx?PageID=845&ItemID=841&count=1#.UXdEmrVmiSo
They Mayor listed alternative venues that are totally unsuitable for the needs of the community and 3 times smaller.
17 October 2012
CASTLE HILL SHOWGROUND FUTURE SECURED – Media Release
The future of the Castle Hill Showground and facilities has been secured following consultation with the local community about the adjacent North West Rail Link station precinct.
Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian said the location of the station and the construction site have been moved to reduce impacts on the Showground.
Acquiring and demolishing the Hills Centre to make way for the new station and possibly using the Hills Shire Council building as a project office during construction
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/100
4 Oct 12 - Council meeting was held 2 Oct saying they brought out the environment impact statement for EI2. This contained proposal to demolish the Hills Centre that council agreed upon.
http://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/SPContent.aspx?PageID=845&ItemID=832&count=1#.UXdDtbVmiSo
Hills Shire Council have said they are not going to replace Hills Centre and State Government are not replacing the Hills Centre.
2 Oct 12
North West Rail Link gets green light
She says the project's approval comes with certain conditions, including requirements to consult with local councils on mitigation measures where community and council facilities are impacted by construction.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-10-02/north-west-green-light/4290488?section=nsw
25 Sep 2012
A Modification of Minister’s Approval was granted pursuant to Section 115Zl of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for the Staged State Significant Infrastructure Approval for the NWRL project. In addition, on 25 September 2012 an Approval was granted pursuant to Section 115ZB of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for the State Significant Infrastructure Application relating to the Major Civil Construction Works for NWRL.
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/173
19 Aug 2012
The missing link: North West Rail rail line
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/the-missing-link-north-west-rail-rail-line/story-e6freuy9-1226453167979
13 Aug 2012
North West Rail Link could signal Castle Hill Show's end
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/north-west-rail-link-could-signal-castle-hill-shows-end/story-e6freuy9-1226449291350
30 July 2012
NORTH WEST RAIL LINK REACHES ANOTHER PLANNING MILESTONE – Media Release
“The Submissions Report being lodged today addresses issues raised by the community, local
businesses, government agencies and councils to the first Environmental Impact Statement.
We've listened and taken on board their feedback.”
July 2012
Submissions Report
Stage 1 - Major Civil Construction Works
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/91
1/6/2012 - On the first June 2012, council reiterated the station would be located at the Southern end. “We have always supported the arrival of rail and the State Government’s decision to preserve the future role of the Castle Hill Showground as an important community leisure precinct, and we are now making way for The North West Rail to proceed,” he said.”
http://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/SPContent.aspx?PageID=845&ItemID=771#.UXdCeLVmiSp
They also said “Over the next few months, Council will be working hard to prepare precinct plans for future development around the Hills Centre Station. This will be an ongoing consultative process with both the State Government and the local community.”
14 May 2012
SUBMISSIONS CLOSING SOON ON NORTH WEST RAIL LINK EIS – Media Release
26 April 12 – 8 May 12
Consultation meetings with the community.
9 April 2012
It was confirmed the Hills Centre station is proposed adjacent to Castle Hill Showground absorbing the current Hills Council Depot, preserving the functionality of the showground.
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/246016/north-west-rail-link-to-bring-jobs-and-noise/
5 Apr 2012
http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/new-rail-link-to-swallow-90-houses-businesses-20120404-1wd7g.html
4 April 2012
NORTH WEST RAIL LINK EIS RELEASED FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
17 Mar 2012
Southern Option for Hills Station – Media Release
NSW Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Barry O’Farrell and Member for Castle Hill Dominic Perrottet today announced the preferred location for the Hills Centre railway station on the North West Rail Link would be a southern option that minimised disruption to the Castle Hill Showground.
“This is a win-win for the community in the North West,” Mr O’Farrell said.
26 March 2012
The North West Rail was originally to be called the Hills Centre Station as the railway was going past the Hills Centre. The show committee protested, they didn’t want a road going through the middle of the showground. North West Rail, then had the suggestion that the rail station move to the Southern end below the Hills Centre. In March 26th 2012, the premier backed this proposal to move the station to the location of the council depot site.
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/245931/north-west-rail-link-centre-station-backed-by-premier/
“Mr O'Farrell said the southern option was developed following community feedback and additional design work and provided the best transport integration solution.”
At this stage the church were asked to move out in April 2013 as they needed to use the car park for stockpiling dirt as it would be impractical to operate.
22 Feb 2012
Dominic Perrottet said in a speech in parliament honouring the Mayor at the time Bernie Mullane “ Under his leadership, The Hills Shire Council buildings were created along with the Hills Centre, which has become a valuable resource to our community, playing host to numerous events from citizenship ceremonies to school presentation evenings.”
http://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/Prod/parlment/hansart.nsf/V3Key/LA20120222036?open&refNavID=HA8_1
Even then Mr Perrottet has no idea of the full use and purpose of the Hills Centre.
8 Feb 2012
“But Castle Hill and Hills Agricultural Society president Peter Gooch, who recently met Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian, said the northern option could see the Hills Centre station built in the vicinity of the showground's cattle rings.”
“The society's preferred southern option would most likely affect the animal nursery, Country Women's Association kiosk, horticulture, cattle, cats, goats and possibly the poultry pavilions and cattle and dog lawns during the rail line's construction.
But Mr Gooch said it could be a win-win situation where the government would rebuild the facilities to the community and patrons' benefit: they could eventually catch the train to the showground.”
http://www.railpage.com.au/news/article-10174/
29 June, 2011
NORTH WEST RAIL LINK COMMUNITY INFORMATION CENTRE OPEN FOR BUSINESS – Media Release
April 2011
TfNSW has taken a proactive approach to consulting the community since April 2011. In June 2011 the Minister for Transport opened the NWRL Community Information Centre which is staffed five and a half days a week by expert community liaison staff most of whom live locally and understand the local transport challenges
Warnings on North West Rail Ignored
http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/warnings-on-northwest-rail-link-plan-ignored-20140129-31mvw.html
Northwest Growth sector
http://www.palladium.net.au/edm/summer-2013-web.html#one
28 Aug 2013 – Hills Shire Times New performing arts stage will be built at Bella Vista Farm
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/news/new-performing-arts-stage-will-be-built-at-bella-vista-farm/story-fngr8gwi-1226705556255
This is a total joke for performing arts.
27 Aug 2013 – Hills Shire Times - The Hills Centre demolition begins to make way for rail link
The Hills Centre demolition begins to make way for rail link
27 Aug 2013 – Hills Shire Times – Editorial
Misguided Editorial saying should have put Hills Centre near coffee shops. There was no coffee shops and Castle Hill Towers until after Hills
Centre put Castle Hill on the map. Maybe the coffee shops should have been put near the Hills Centre.
RAISE VOICES FORNEWHUB
I think the editorial by David Catt is short sighted and uninformed, like so many others. It wasn't the original design of the Hills Centre that was the problem,
it was the way it has been looked after by council. The original seating in the centre was not the horrible chairs that ended up there, with extra seating added
behind poles. The sound proofing was also done with special wall and two roofs.... The acoustic boards on the ceiling to reflect the sound somehow went
missing. (probably someone helped themselves to them). The Hills Centre was built before all the cafes in the town centre in fact the Hills Centre put
Castle Hill on the map, which brought all the shops and cafes. The fact that it had good onsight parking and ability to bump in shows was what made it so
special. People could go to the theatre without parking costs, then have dinner at the restaurant. Unfortunately, council let this centre run done, and then
sold it off.
23 Aug 2013 – Hills News – Facebook page
Facebook picture - The iconic Hills Centre in Castle Hill is being knocked down as we speak. While it's a sign the North West Rail Link is really happening, The Hills Centre holds some fond memories for many... what are yours?
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=460905977349813&set=a.303159419791137.74127.257824437657969&&theater
23 August – Hills Shire Times
BREAKING NEWS: Demolition works have begun on The Hills Centre.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152175785179616&set=a.10150226443199616.387062.327196239615&&theater
Going... going.... The Hills Centre would have been 25 years old on September 10.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152175850029616&set=a.10150226443199616.387062.327196239615&&theater
16 Jul 2013
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1640738/letters-to-the-editor-july-16-2013/
16 Jul 2013
Hills Centre bricks and plaques can be claimed
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1638284/hills-centre-bricks-and-plaques-can-be-claimed/
15 Jul 2013
Vladimir Tichy’s Work Commemorated
http://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/SPContent.aspx?PageID=951&ItemID=960&count=1#.Ueahto1miSr
This needs to stay with the building.
9 Jul 2013
Call to Labour to Save the Hills Centre
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1623173/call-to-labor-to-help-save-hills-centre/
25 Jun 13
Hills Shire Times front page new on Vladimir Tichy's 30 m long mosaic
Hills Shire Times
Article on mural
Hills Shire Times
Bricks from the Hills Centre
Hills Shire Times
12 Jun 13Crazy Train | WixxyLeaks
See our Facebook page for other news.
24 Apr 2013$180 million reasons to get excited about The Hills Shire Plan
...“We will be building new roads, footpaths, playgrounds and sporting fields – as well as rejuvenating our existing assets,” Dr Byrne said....
Investigating the cultural and performing arts needs of The Shire....
This is a four year plan. In it there is no mention of replacing the Hills Centre or any performing arts centre. They are INVESTIGATING the cultural needs. We already know the Hills needs a substantial centre, so why plan to rebuild something in the future we already have now.
16 Apr 13
Front PageVenue costs too much for council
But Cr Jefferies said clearing the $38 million backlog of community infrastructure projects must come first.
‘‘When it comes down to a choice, community infrastructure like footpaths and roads and parks must take priority,’’ he said.
What about the millions of dollars they spend on sporting ovals and grass mowing? For the last 3 years council have received $100,000 a year for the Hills Centre. This $20 million includes capital costs as well as running costs. I think it would include the extra building they put on the back. Council have not been able to supply me with a document with the estimated costs yet.
Centre much too costly
If you had a business that was given to you, (ie Federal funding grant) that lost money for a while, then started to make money. Would you say I want to get rid of it, and the current managers who had invested into it now because it lost money in the past. Of course not!! You would either work toward selling the business or improving it so it makes MORE money. In actual fact, if the managers weren't doing you a service, you would get rid of them and get better managers. Don't throw the baby out with the bath water.
15 Apr 13
North West Rail Early Construction Work
Survey work commencing 22nd April
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/244
8/4/13
North West Rail Early Construction Work
External property surveys conducted in Cheriton Ave.
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/234
8/4/13
Curtain closes on Hills Performing Arts Festival
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/the-hills/curtain-closes-on-hills-performing-arts-festival/story-fngr8i1f-1226614936000
Hills Performing Arts Festival and others are being forced to close altogether. What will happen to community when it loses its culture?
3 Apr 2013Land including the Council works Depot, Hills Centre and Council chambers is acquired by LAND ACQUISITION (JUST TERMS COMPENSATION) ACT 1991- Government Gazette Week No. 20/2013 Friday, 17 May 2013.
26 Mar 2013
Hills Shire Times - Demolition job on our vital arts centre - News Local
19/3/2013
NSW Government promises 50,000 new homes, jobs around proposed North West Rail Link
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/the-hills/nsw-government-promises-50000-new-homes-jobs-around-proposed-north-west-rail-link/story-fngr8i1f-1226600707143
18/3/13
Festival forced out over centre closure
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/the-hills/sydney-west-dance-festival-forced-out-over-hills-centre-closure/story-fngr8i1f-1226599820184
This is just one of many community groups and dance groups forced out.
5/3/13
‘‘We can’t save The Hills Centre.’’
These were the words of Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian at a press conference at Castle Hill’s North West Rail Link information centre on Friday.
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1339754/minister-we-cant-save-the-hills-centre/
Of course they can, if they want to.
March 2013 - EI2 Submissions Report
See March 2013 Submissions Report Page
6/2/2013
We met with Katherine Martin to discuss the demolition of the Hills Centre. She said a decision has already been made on the demolition of the Hills Centre. She will meet with us to discuss why the decision has been made. She said that other options were considered near a sports venue.
18/1/13
North West Rail Link
EPBC Preliminary Documentation: Report on Submissions
EPBC Reference: 2012/6360
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/190
15/1/2013
THE NSW Minister Of Transport Gladys Berejiklian was reviewing the outcomes of a study into the viability of the Murwillumbah to Casino rail line.
Ms Berejiklian said it was "sensible that the government does its homework before undertaking major projects."
http://www.mydailynews.com.au/news/hold-on-a-toot-rail-study-still-coming-says-minist/1716396/
http://www.railpage.com.au/news/article-11972/
They didn't do homework with users of the Hills Centre.
8/11/12 – 22/11/12
North West Rail asked for community comment on the EI2. Obviously, over Christmas was a time when everyone was winding down and didn’t have time or resources to put in comments. The North West Rail held community forums but there was no consultation regarding the Hills Centre with any of the groups who use it. It was considered by everyone as a decision that could not be altered. The council fully support the demolition of the Hills Centre and have rezoned the land to high rise.
31/10/12 – 3/12/12
Environmental Impact Statement 2
Your invitation to learn more about Sydney’s biggest rail project
In recognition of the importance of Castle Hill Showground, the NSW Government has re‑named this railway station Showground Station. The proposed improvements to the plans for this site are part of ongoing consultation with the community and key stakeholders.http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/172
Note – NO consultation was made with 1,000’s of users of the Hills Centre.
30 October, 2012
NEW STATIONS, NEW TRAINS AND 14 MILLION FEWER CAR TRIPS – Media Release
Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian said the community will have until December 3 to have their say on the second EIS
Following community feedback over the past 18 months, key improvements to the North West Rail Link include:
- Going from six to eight railway stations;
- Increasing commuter car parking by 1,000 spaces – to 4,000;
- Securing the future of the Castle Hill Showground;
- Easing disruption to Norwest Boulevard during construction by slightly moving
- Norwest station; and
- Reducing the size of the Cheltenham construction site by more than 2,000 square metres.
No mention at all of Hills Centre being impacted.
29 Oct 2012
“The Hills Centre to be demolished for the North West Rail Link” Hills Shire Times (archived)
http://northwestrail.com.au/news_article/expand/67
23 Oct 12
Castle Hill Showground finally safe from North West Rail Link construction
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/castle-hill-showground-finally-safe-from-north-west-rail-link-construction/story-fndo317g-1226501305559
No mention of the Hills Centre being demolished to align to Carrington Rd.
22 Oct 2012
Win for Castle Hill Showground as others lose
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/412043/win-for-castle-hill-showground-as-others-lose
22 Oct 2012
Transport Nsw published a document” Modification to Showground Station (SSI-5100)” The proposed modification is associated with (Construction
Site 6 as identified in the Environmental Impact Statement for Stage 1: Major Civil Construction Works (EIS 1)) and includes:
- Minor change to the location of Showground Station, to the south east and parallel with Carrington Road, and associated modification of the horizontal alignment of the tunnels.
- Vertical alignment changes to accommodate the changed location of Showground Station.
- Change to Showground Station construction site boundary (Site 6).
- Change to the Showground Road and Carrington Road construction access/egress arrangements.
This is hardly a minor change. This is demolishing the Hills Shire's most major asset.
18th Oct Council announced the Hills Centre was to demolished as part of the station plan
http://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/SPContent.aspx?PageID=845&ItemID=841&count=1#.UXdEmrVmiSo
They Mayor listed alternative venues that are totally unsuitable for the needs of the community and 3 times smaller.
17 October 2012
CASTLE HILL SHOWGROUND FUTURE SECURED – Media Release
The future of the Castle Hill Showground and facilities has been secured following consultation with the local community about the adjacent North West Rail Link station precinct.
Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian said the location of the station and the construction site have been moved to reduce impacts on the Showground.
Acquiring and demolishing the Hills Centre to make way for the new station and possibly using the Hills Shire Council building as a project office during construction
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/100
4 Oct 12 - Council meeting was held 2 Oct saying they brought out the environment impact statement for EI2. This contained proposal to demolish the Hills Centre that council agreed upon.
http://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/SPContent.aspx?PageID=845&ItemID=832&count=1#.UXdDtbVmiSo
Hills Shire Council have said they are not going to replace Hills Centre and State Government are not replacing the Hills Centre.
2 Oct 12
North West Rail Link gets green light
She says the project's approval comes with certain conditions, including requirements to consult with local councils on mitigation measures where community and council facilities are impacted by construction.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-10-02/north-west-green-light/4290488?section=nsw
25 Sep 2012
A Modification of Minister’s Approval was granted pursuant to Section 115Zl of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for the Staged State Significant Infrastructure Approval for the NWRL project. In addition, on 25 September 2012 an Approval was granted pursuant to Section 115ZB of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for the State Significant Infrastructure Application relating to the Major Civil Construction Works for NWRL.
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/173
19 Aug 2012
The missing link: North West Rail rail line
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/the-missing-link-north-west-rail-rail-line/story-e6freuy9-1226453167979
13 Aug 2012
North West Rail Link could signal Castle Hill Show's end
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/north-west-rail-link-could-signal-castle-hill-shows-end/story-e6freuy9-1226449291350
30 July 2012
NORTH WEST RAIL LINK REACHES ANOTHER PLANNING MILESTONE – Media Release
“The Submissions Report being lodged today addresses issues raised by the community, local
businesses, government agencies and councils to the first Environmental Impact Statement.
We've listened and taken on board their feedback.”
July 2012
Submissions Report
Stage 1 - Major Civil Construction Works
http://northwestrail.com.au/document/show/91
1/6/2012 - On the first June 2012, council reiterated the station would be located at the Southern end. “We have always supported the arrival of rail and the State Government’s decision to preserve the future role of the Castle Hill Showground as an important community leisure precinct, and we are now making way for The North West Rail to proceed,” he said.”
http://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/SPContent.aspx?PageID=845&ItemID=771#.UXdCeLVmiSp
They also said “Over the next few months, Council will be working hard to prepare precinct plans for future development around the Hills Centre Station. This will be an ongoing consultative process with both the State Government and the local community.”
14 May 2012
SUBMISSIONS CLOSING SOON ON NORTH WEST RAIL LINK EIS – Media Release
26 April 12 – 8 May 12
Consultation meetings with the community.
9 April 2012
It was confirmed the Hills Centre station is proposed adjacent to Castle Hill Showground absorbing the current Hills Council Depot, preserving the functionality of the showground.
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/246016/north-west-rail-link-to-bring-jobs-and-noise/
5 Apr 2012
http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/new-rail-link-to-swallow-90-houses-businesses-20120404-1wd7g.html
4 April 2012
NORTH WEST RAIL LINK EIS RELEASED FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
17 Mar 2012
Southern Option for Hills Station – Media Release
NSW Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Barry O’Farrell and Member for Castle Hill Dominic Perrottet today announced the preferred location for the Hills Centre railway station on the North West Rail Link would be a southern option that minimised disruption to the Castle Hill Showground.
“This is a win-win for the community in the North West,” Mr O’Farrell said.
26 March 2012
The North West Rail was originally to be called the Hills Centre Station as the railway was going past the Hills Centre. The show committee protested, they didn’t want a road going through the middle of the showground. North West Rail, then had the suggestion that the rail station move to the Southern end below the Hills Centre. In March 26th 2012, the premier backed this proposal to move the station to the location of the council depot site.
http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/245931/north-west-rail-link-centre-station-backed-by-premier/
“Mr O'Farrell said the southern option was developed following community feedback and additional design work and provided the best transport integration solution.”
At this stage the church were asked to move out in April 2013 as they needed to use the car park for stockpiling dirt as it would be impractical to operate.
22 Feb 2012
Dominic Perrottet said in a speech in parliament honouring the Mayor at the time Bernie Mullane “ Under his leadership, The Hills Shire Council buildings were created along with the Hills Centre, which has become a valuable resource to our community, playing host to numerous events from citizenship ceremonies to school presentation evenings.”
http://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/Prod/parlment/hansart.nsf/V3Key/LA20120222036?open&refNavID=HA8_1
Even then Mr Perrottet has no idea of the full use and purpose of the Hills Centre.
8 Feb 2012
“But Castle Hill and Hills Agricultural Society president Peter Gooch, who recently met Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian, said the northern option could see the Hills Centre station built in the vicinity of the showground's cattle rings.”
“The society's preferred southern option would most likely affect the animal nursery, Country Women's Association kiosk, horticulture, cattle, cats, goats and possibly the poultry pavilions and cattle and dog lawns during the rail line's construction.
But Mr Gooch said it could be a win-win situation where the government would rebuild the facilities to the community and patrons' benefit: they could eventually catch the train to the showground.”
http://www.railpage.com.au/news/article-10174/
29 June, 2011
NORTH WEST RAIL LINK COMMUNITY INFORMATION CENTRE OPEN FOR BUSINESS – Media Release
April 2011
TfNSW has taken a proactive approach to consulting the community since April 2011. In June 2011 the Minister for Transport opened the NWRL Community Information Centre which is staffed five and a half days a week by expert community liaison staff most of whom live locally and understand the local transport challenges