Bayside Council has released the draft Masterplan for the Rockdale Town Centre, laying out a long-term vision to guide growth and renewal for the suburb over the next 10 to 15 years.

Subscribe now for unlimited access.

or signup to continue reading

The council has prepared the draft Masterplan for Rockdale in response to the NSW Government's housing reforms, including Transport Oriented Development (TOD) controls. The draft plan not only meets but exceeds state housing targets.

The draft plan aims to:

Provide opportunities for new housing and employment

Enhance public spaces and social infrastructure

Celebrate and reflect Rockdale's cultural diversity

Establish a flexible framework to support long-term growth.

The Masterplan builds on the 2012 Rockdale Town Centre Masterplan, focusing on the Civic Precinct because it remains the primary element yet to be delivered.

The study area extends beyond the 2012 boundaries to include land covered by the NSW Government's Transport Oriented Development (TOD) policy implemented in 2024. It also incorporates a transition zone that connects the higher-density town centre to the lower-density residential neighbourhoods on its edges.

The draft Rockdale Centre Masterplan consists of four main precincts:

Precinct One - Civic Heart. A civic precinct bringing together the Town Hall, Library, Arts and Culture Centre, and council offices, supported by a new town park.

Precinct Two - Rockdale Town Centre North for a thriving urban high street. Market Street and Kings Lane will be lined with retail, outdoor dining and safer pedestrian routes supported by landmark mixed used development delivering housing, commercial spaces and a potential 'Eat Street' precinct.

Precinct Three - High Density Residential. Delivering six to nine storey unit blocks in a landscaped setting with park views, strong solar access and immediate access to transport, shops and open space. This area would be bounded by Bryant, Bestic and George Streets.

Precinct Four - Medium Density Residential. A mix of three-storey apartments and town houses to increase housing diversity while maintaining neighbourhood character and strengthening the link between Rockdale's high density and suburban edges. This area is bounded by Bryant, George and Bestic Streets and the M6 Motorway tunnel.

"We are planning for the future of Rockdale," Bayside Council mayor, Edward McDougall said.

"This document sets out our vision and represents a locally driven response to NSW housing reforms, including Transport Oriented Development.

"This plan sets out our vision that creates a safer, greener destination for our community to gather with landscaped open space and an outdoor amphitheatre," he said.

The council will hold a community drop in season on Thursday 7 May 2026 5:30pm to 7pm at Rockdale Library 3rd floor, 444/446 Princes Hwy, Rockdale.

There will also be Rockdale Walkthrough on Tuesday 28 April 2026 5:30pm to 6:30pm to go for a walk with our planners and hear first-hand plans that will transform Rockdale. (30 spots available) Click here for FREE registration