The rapid population growth in the Greater Sydney region, and the Camden local government area in particular, has placed significant pressure on Western Sydney’s ecosystems, putting habitat in the area at considerable risk.
In response, NGH was engaged to prepare Camden Council’s Biodiversity Strategy 2023, which addresses these pressures.
Unique contexts require unique solutions
Camden has an incredibly unique development and environmental planning context. It is adjacent to the Western Sydney Airport development, and the Greater Sydney Orbital runs through part of the local government area (LGA). Plus, it is one of the fastest growing LGA s in Australia.
Natascha Arens
Its location within the Cumberland Plain and distinctive topographical features, such as the Nepean River corridor and Wianamatta Shale hills, provide a backdrop for regionally and nationally significant biodiversity.
NGH conducted fieldwork to inform the creation of natural area plans and identify locations of critical biodiversity value. The resulting 5-year strategy, which was chosen for its responsiveness to the specific threats and pressures faced by the Camden community, balances the protection of rural landscape values, threatened ecological communities and green spaces, with the demand for residential and infrastructure development.
Collaborating with community and Council
To ensure the effective implementation of the strategy, NGH engaged in a collaborative approach with Camden Council, holding workshops throughout the development process and incorporating feedback, as well as beautiful photographs and artwork, from the community.
The resulting Camden Council Biodiversity Strategy 2023 was adopted by Council in February 2023. It provides detailed information on threats to biodiversity in the area and sets out a clear action plan for protecting and enhancing the local ecosystems. It also includes a Natural Areas Plan for six key parks and conservation areas.
To learn more, contact Natascha Arens and view Camden Council’s Biodiversity Strategy 2023
