Leaders gather for forum on the future of Parramatta and urban design

With the NSW State election now confirmed for 25 March 2023, the National Trust of Australia (NSW) is launching its election platform with an independent forum on the key issues facing the state’s heritage places.

Renowned experts in heritage, urbanism, planning and architecture will meet today at the Past & Future Cities Forum: Reimagining Parramatta, which is hosted by the National Trust of Australia (NSW) in partnership with the Australian Institute of Architects and Australasian Society for Historical Archaeology.

The National Trust has long argued for our cities’ heritage to play a meaningful role in their future. Using Parramatta as a case study, this Forum will debate ways rapidly growing areas can create a unique and identifiable character, discuss what a blueprint for truly loveable cities should include, and reimagine how this can be integrated into the urban design process in Western Sydney.

Debbie Mills CEO National Trust (NSW) said Parramatta is a timely case study that also highlights the issues affecting all rapidly-developing urban and regional areas. “This Forum is intended to distil clear and practical recommendations when it comes to heritage places in city planning, for our leaders and the public to consider, especially as we approach the NSW State election,” she said.

The Forum will be facilitated by National Trust Board Member and Head of Programming for Sydney Ideas, Fenella Kernebone, and key speakers include:

  • Lord Mayor Donna Davis – Parramatta City Council
  • Cr HY William Chan – Sydney City Councillor and architect
  • Dr Elizabeth Farrelly – Urban critic and author of Killing Sydney: The fight for a city’s soul
  • Prof Andy Marks – Pro Vice-Chancellor, Strategy Government and Alliances, Western Sydney University
  • Jane Jose OAM – Urban planner and author of Places Women Make
  • Sharon Veale – Executive Director, GML Heritage
  • Suzette Mead – spokesperson, North Parramatta Residents Action Group
  • Jim Colman – urban planner and author The House that Jack Built
  • David Burdon – Conservation Director, National Trust (NSW)
  • Jane Alexander – Advocacy Manager, National Trust (NSW)

The event takes place today from 12noon – 5pm, and is free to attend.

Media interested in covering the event please contact Susan Darwiche on +61-(0)414-706-704 or susan@doubleshotpr.com.au

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