Stages Map – Ferndale Precinct

Welcome to the Ferndale Industrial Precinct – a transformative project revitalising the historic Luddenham Quarry site into a cutting-edge hub for sustainability, agribusiness, logistics, and manufacturing. Our map outlines the stages of development, each critical to the project’s success. Click on each stage to explore detailed information, key benefits, and the progress we’re making toward a safer, greener future.

Stage 1: Advanced Resource Recovery Centre (ARCC) development

What’s Happening:

ARRC Development: Construction of the Advanced Resource Recovery Centre (ARRC) is underway. This facility is being built to recycle up to 85% of construction and demolition materials, setting a new standard in circular economy practices.
The ARRC is designed to process up to 600,000 tonnes per annum of non-putrescible general solid waste, including building and demolition waste, as well as commercial and industrial waste. The facility aims to achieve a recovery rate of 85% from the processing of incoming materials.
In addition to the capital investment into the facility and equipment, the development also includes over $3.5m in infrastructure works to upgrade surrounding roads and key utility services, The development will also generate more than 60 jobs during construction and almost 180 direct and indirect jobs during operations.

Key Benefits:

First agribusiness DA lodged in the Aerotropolis:
Ferndale Industrial Precinct is the first project in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis to secure a Development Application specifically for agribusiness, paving the way for dedicated agricultural facilities in the region.
Private investment funds the ARRC:
The Advanced Resource Recovery Centre (ARRC) is fully financed through private capital, ensuring efficient delivery without relying on taxpayer funds.
Local jobs created during construction:
The precincts build-out is creating dozens of roles for Western Sydney contractors, tradespeople and support staff, directly boosting the regional economy.

Stage 2 and 3: Warehouse development to support agribusiness

What’s Happening:

Industrial Infrastructure: Development of purpose-built facilities designed for storage, processing, and distribution to support Western Sydney’s agribusiness sector.
Integration with Regional Growth: The hub complements the ARRC by creating a seamless link between recycling and industrial operations, reinforcing the Aerotropolis vision.
Community and Economic Impact: The infrastructure will generate local employment and facilitate the growth of related industries, providing a long-term boost to the region’s economy.
Infrastructure Support: Upgrades to the transport network—such as improvements to Adams Rd, Elizabeth Dr, and Stafford Rd—are already in place, boosting connectivity and facilitating future industrial growth.

Key Benefits:

Agribusiness construction will commence: Stages 2 & 3 will deliver purpose-built warehouses for storage, processing and logistics.
Will support local producers and create long-term jobs: These facilities will provide ongoing operations, maintenance and logistics roles, strengthening Western Sydney’s agribusiness workforce.
Will align with regional growth strategies for Western Sydney: Ferndale will dovetail with state and Aerotropolis plans, delivering the infrastructure needed for agribusiness expansion.

Stage 4: Quarry infill for future uses and environmental rehabilitation

What’s Happening:

Modification to the Quarry DA: A key parallel process involves modifying the existing quarry Development Approval (DA) under the State Significant Development (SSD) framework, allowing for the controlled infill of the quarry void.
Initial Quarry Infilling: Controlled infilling transforms previously unusable land into prime development space, enabling further industrial expansion.
Future Industrial Expansion: New facilities and support infrastructure will emerge, creating opportunities for advanced manufacturing, local jobs, logistics, and innovation.
Oaky Creek Revitalisation: Comprehensive enhancements along Oaky Creek will improve water quality, support existing biodiversity, and create integrated green spaces. This initiative seamlessly blends nature with industrial progress.
Environmental and Community Benefits: The revitalisation supports a harmonious balance between urban development and nature, contributing to a healthier, more resilient environment.
Final Site Transformation: Comprehensive landscaping, biodiversity corridors, and integrated water management systems will complete the site transformation, setting a new benchmark for sustainable industrial precincts.

Key Benefits:

Environmental rehabilitation of a former quarry: Stage 4 will transform the void with controlled infill, native planting and water management to restore the site’s ecology.
Create future-ready land: The rehabilitated land will be fully serviced and landscaped.
Local job creation and circular economy leadership: This phase will sustain jobs in civil works and landscaping while demonstrating closed-loop resource recovery.

STAY CONNECTED

Through each stage, the Ferndale Industrial Precinct reaffirms its commitment to creating local jobs, driving a circular economy, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Thank you for exploring our map and learning how we’re shaping Western Sydney’s future together.

FAQ’s

What is the Ferndale Industrial Precinct?

Ferndale Industrial Precinct is the redevelopment of the site of the former Luddenham Quarry into an innovative circular economy hub and industrial precinct. It includes an Advanced Resource Recovery Centre (ARRC) expected to recycle up to 85% of construction material, and modern industrial facilities for agribusiness, logistics, and manufacturing. The project aligns with the Western Sydney Aerotropolis Precinct Plan, supporting jobs and sustainability.

Where is the precinct located?

The precinct is located at 275 Adams Road, Luddenham, a 19-hectare site in the agribusiness zone and adjoining the future Western Sydney International Airport.

Why is this site being redeveloped?

The site ceased quarry operations in 2024. As part of the rehabilitation of the site, the opportunity arose to deliver modern industrial facilities for agribusiness, logistics, and manufacturing, as well as support Sydney’s landfill shortage by providing sustainable disposal options for unrecyclable construction material.

How will the precinct support sustainability?

The precinct prioritises recycling and repurposing of construction and demolition material to support the circular economy. Where material cannot be recycled, it will be used to rehabilitate the site. The ARRC will divert up to 85% of waste from landfill, aligning with NSW’s Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2041 and circular economy goals. The industrial facilities will meet the Western Sydney Aerotropolis sustainability targets for biodiversity and water quality.

How will the quarry be rehabilitated?

The quarry void will be divided into cells and lined with an impermeable barrier suitable to contain unrecyclable construction material which will be compacted in layers to establish a final landform. Once completed, the rehabilitated quarry void will be revegetated in the riparian area and developed with modern industrial facilities in the agribusiness zone.

What environmental protections will be in place?

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIS) is underway to identify and mitigate risks. Disposal of unrecyclable material will comply with ISO environmental standards and EPA guidelines to ensure best practices in environmental management. Modern technology such as baling wrapping will be used to ensure efficiency, reduce environmental impacts, eliminate loose material, and greatly improve site aesthetics during operations. The project will include stringent waste management and land rehabilitation requirements, as well as strict environmental monitoring and reporting.

Why is the precinct critical for waste management?

Greater Sydney is projected to run out of non-putrescible landfill capacity by 2027-28. The rehabilitation of the site provides an opportunity for sustainable disposal options whilst minimising environmental impacts.

Will the Ferndale Industrial Precinct cause smells, noise, dust, or attract birds and pests?

No. The Advanced Resource Recovery Centre (ARRC) will only process non-putrescible materials, meaning it will not handle food waste, household garbage, or anything that decomposes and creates strong odours. The facility is designed to minimise environmental impacts, including:

No smells – Because only construction and demolition materials (such as bricks, concrete, and metals) will be processed, there will be no rotting waste or unpleasant odours.
Low noise levels – Operations will take place within enclosed areas where possible, with noise barriers and monitoring in place to comply with environmental regulations.
Dust control – Water spraying systems, sealed access roads, and enclosed processing areas will help manage dust and maintain air quality.
No attraction of birds or pests – Without organic waste, the site will not attract scavenger birds, rodents, or other pests typically associated with landfill sites.

The project has also undergone a thorough environmental assessment to ensure compliance with NSW’s strict regulations, and ongoing monitoring will be in place to address any concerns.

How will the precinct benefit Western Sydney?

The precinct will create local jobs during construction and operation, supporting workforce development and strengthening Western Sydney’s agribusiness, logistics, and manufacturing sectors.

What is Agribusiness zoning, and how does the precinct comply?

Agribusiness zoning supports agricultural production and related industries. The precinct will provide infrastructure for agricultural storage, processing, and distribution, reinforcing Western Sydney’s position as a global agribusiness hub.

What approvals are required?

The precinct requires two separate approvals: a modification to the Luddenham Quarry consent to permit the complete rehabilitation of the site, and a new state significant development application for industrial facilities.

How will compliance be ensured?

The precinct is subject to a number of state planning policies, development control plans, and other guidelines. All development applications are required to follow these planning regulations, as well as comprehensive engagement with government agencies and stakeholders. During operations, the precinct will include stringent waste management and land rehabilitation requirements, as well as strict environmental monitoring and reporting.

What facilities will be built?

The plan for the precinct is to include the ARRC and another four modern industrial facilities for agribusiness, logistics, and manufacturing. In addition, associated biodiversity and water quality infrastructure will also be constructed.

How will traffic be managed?

The precinct will be developed in line with the Western Sydney Aerotropolis Precinct Plan, which includes new and upgraded roads. As part of the EIS, comprehensive traffic assessment will be undertaken to ensure minimal impacts on the road network. During operation, strict monitoring and reporting requirements will ensure compliance with all consent requirements.

Why is additional recycling infrastructure needed?

NSW requires more recycling infrastructure to meet the growing demand for sustainable waste solutions. The Advanced Resource Recovery Centre (ARRC) enhances existing facilities by increasing recycling capacity and diverting up to 85% of construction and demolition waste from landfill. This supports NSW’s circular economy goals by ensuring valuable materials are recovered and reused efficiently.

How can we have our say?

We value community feedback. You can share your thoughts by:

Submitting feedback via this dedicated project website or email.

How will community concerns be addressed?

Feedback will be reviewed and incorporated where possible. The project team is committed to transparency and will provide updates on how community input is considered in planning and operations.

For further questions, please contact us via this website or email: info@ferndaleprecinct.com.au