Under the planning approval granted for the Westlink M7, the RTA is required to meet a range of conditions aimed at maximising the project's benefits and minimising any adverse impacts on local communities.
Urban design
The RTA has developed a specific urban design strategy to reduce potential impacts on Cecil Hills residents.
The strategy includes:
- Tree planting and landscaping to minimise visual impacts.
- Any necessary noise mitigation measures.
- Pedestrian overpasses and underpasses.
- Strategies for regional parklands.
The RTA has also consulted with residents of Erin Place in Casula and the NSW Environment Protection Authority regarding the impact on natural light as a result of the project. A noise management strategy and a landscape and urban design plan for these residents has also been developed.
Local access
The project included 35 crossing points for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists to cross over and under the motorway.
Three additional pedestrian/bicycle crossings have been provided along the Westlink M7 at Mavis Street, Rooty Hill; Simms Road and Ainsley Avenue at Glendenning; and Redmayne Road at Horsley Park.
Managing construction impacts
The planning approval included comprehensive measures to minimise the impact of the motorway's construction on the community, including:
- Maintaining current public transport service levels.
- Extensive restrictions on noise and emission generating construction activity.
- Establishment of a 24-hour toll-free hotline for community complaints and queries.
- Plans to address issues such as the maintenance of vehicle and pedestrian access.
Local traffic management
Monitoring of the local and regional road network will be conducted to address the risk of any adverse traffic impacts in the areas surrounding the Westlink M7.
Traffic management plans will also be prepared to manage traffic flows through and in the vicinity of the project, with priority measures for public transport, bicycles and pedestrians.
Keeping communities informed
Local communities have been provided with relevant and timely information both before and during construction. This has included a community involvement plan, community liaison groups, ongoing advertising of construction activities and potential disruptions, a project website, newsletters and display centre.
A better project
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