FAQ.

VISION.

What is your vision for Richards?

Our vision is bold: to transform industrial land into a complete, connected suburb that sets a new benchmark for Sydney’s north-west. Guided by nature, designed for people, and grounded in community, Richards will be a place of opportunity and belonging – with almost half the land preserved as open space for recreation and connection. It will become a vibrant hub for jobs, innovation, and everyday life, revitalising the local economy and shaping a thriving future for generations to come.

Where is Richards?

Richards is located 40 kilometres from the Sydney CBD, just 45 minutes by car on the M2 motorway. Spanning 234 hectares – an area comparable in size to the Sydney CBD – it is centrally positioned within the North West Growth Area, making it an ideal location for future growth.

What makes Richards different from other new suburbs?

Richards goes beyond bricks and mortar. It’s a complete, connected suburb where nature is central, almost half the land is preserved as open space, and every element – from jobs and education to recreation and housing – is designed to work together. It’s about creating a thriving community.

Why is it called Richards?

Richards takes its name from Benjamin Richards, the pioneer who established the Riverstone Meatworks in 1878 and laid the foundations of growth for Sydney’s north-west. For more than 150 years, the site was a cornerstone of local life and employment. Today, Richards builds on that proud legacy – transforming the land from industry to community and creating a hub of opportunity for generations to come.

What’s planned for the open space at Richards?

Richards includes more than 100 hectares of open space and five kilometres of Eastern Creek frontage – an area larger than the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Domain and Hyde Park combined. Expect walking and cycling trails, green corridors, community event spaces and areas for active recreation, all designed to keep nature at the heart of daily life.

ENVIRONMENT & OPEN SPACE.

What role does nature play in Richards?

Nature is the defining feature of Richards. Green fingers and blue waterways weave through every precinct – managing water, supporting biodiversity, and creating cooler, healthier streets. They’re also spaces for beauty, play, and belonging, ensuring nature remains central to everyday life.

How will open space be used?

Nearly half of Richards will remain open space, carefully designed for maximum impact. Across the four precincts, you’ll find pocket parks, plazas, walking and cycling paths, and vibrant green edges that add colour and character. This balance of urban vibrancy and natural breathing space makes Richards a community unlike any other.

Is there a flood risk related to Richards?

No. Independent flood studies confirm the project will have no impact on flood levels in the Hawkesbury–Nepean basin. Richards is designed with nature-based flood mitigation measures and sustainable stormwater management. Development avoids the Eastern Creek floodway, and all stormwater will flow naturally through to Eastern Creek without disruption.

WORKS.

When will the works start?

Civil works are expected to start within the next few months.

Where will they begin?

Initial works will start near Vineyard and progress towards Garfield Road. This staged approach will allow existing businesses to continue to operate while moving forward.

Will trucks use Riverstone town centre?

No. Construction traffic will not go through Riverstone or its level crossing.

Trucks will:
• Enter the site from Garfield Road via the M7/Richmond Road
• Exit through Bandon Road toward Windsor Road.

This keeps traffic away from local centres and helps reduce congestion.

JOBS & ECONOMY.

Why is this an employment precinct?

Richards is designed as a hub of opportunity for Sydney’s north-west. Alongside housing and community facilities, it will create new jobs in industries such as:

• Health and education services
• Advanced manufacturing
• Data centres and logistics.

This ensures Richards is not just a place to live, but a place to work, learn and thrive.

HISTORY & HERITAGE.

What happens with the Butcher’s Row cottages?

The civil works do not impact these historic cottages. Listed in the Blacktown Local Environment Plan (LEP), they will remain as part of the suburb’s heritage fabric. Their future use will align with Council’s plans for the Riverstone town centre and the Richards Masterplan.

What’s on site today?

Spanning 234 hectares and stretching 3.4 kilometres north to south, Richards is currently home to around 200 businesses, all supported by strong public transport links and existing infrastructure.

TENANTS.

I’m a tenant – what does this mean to me?

Nothing changes for now – current leases at Business Riverstone Park remain in place, and we’re continuing to support and welcome tenants while supporting businesses on-site.

COMMUNICATIONS.