A decision to abandon plans for a new school at the Chatswood Dive Site has sparked criticism from local and NSW officials, who say the move threatens to undermine years of strategic planning for the high-growth area.
Read: Chatswood Community Fights To Save Public Space At Dive Site
The Chatswood Dive Site had been earmarked as a rare parcel of government-owned land ideal for essential community infrastructure. Local officials argued that while there is sufficient land available to meet Chatswood’s growing residential needs, spaces suited for schools, parks, and other public facilities are increasingly scarce.
In the past two years, the Willoughby region has made room for an additional 12,000 dwellings, including 6,500 through the newly adopted Local Environmental Plan, plus further growth through state-led housing reforms and transit-oriented developments. More than 2,700 new homes are currently under assessment within the Chatswood CBD alone, with additional housing opportunities being actively pursued.
However, officials say the expected infrastructure to support this residential boom has not materialised. Chatswood High School is already at capacity, and Chatswood Public Primary School has limited space. They warn that without immediate planning for new education facilities, the area will be ill-equipped to accommodate the expected population surge.
“We are deeply disappointed to hear the government is backing out of its promise to deliver the critical infrastructure required in Chatswood. The Chatswood Dive Site is one of very few parcels of government owned land well suited to providing supporting infrastructure in a high growth location,” Willoughby City Council stated.
Read: Chatswood High Exceeds 2000 Enrolments Following Campus Upgrade
They also stressed that the Dive Site should serve a mix of community purposes—not just education, but also public recreation and green space—to relieve pressure on local amenities.
Local leaders are now calling on the State Government to reconsider its decision and clarify how it intends to provide the necessary infrastructure to support Willoughby’s growth.
Published 13-June-2025