Shaping the Future of Hornsby: A Vision of Connectivity, Community, and Sustainability

As NSW grapples with increasing housing demands, the State Government has launched an ambitious program of priority rezonings around Sydney rail stations and key transport hubs. These rezonings aim to align planning controls—such as building heights and density limits—to ensure urban development meets housing targets and community needs. At the forefront of this transformative initiative is the Hornsby Transit Oriented Development project, where COX assisted the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) in crafting a bold vision for a more connected, vibrant, and sustainable future. 

COX’s approach is rooted in a deep understanding of place, community, and sustainability. For Hornsby, this meant thoroughly reviewing and refining the Hornsby Shire Council’s Masterplan (prepared by COX) to ensure it aligns with the State Government’s transport-oriented development (TOD) objectives. Our work involved validating strategies within the Masterplan, testing built form controls for feasibility, and preparing an amenity-based Design Guide that respects the unique characteristics of Hornsby and enshrines within the Guide levels of amenity within public open spaces, building design to consider privacy and interfaces and aspirational sustainability outcomes. 

Central to this vision is a comprehensive multi-modal public transport hub that seamlessly connects various modes of transport. Proposed changes include reconfiguring the bus interchange, introducing a new, additional pedestrian bridge over the railway, and improving northern access to Hornsby Station. These upgrades aim to improve connectivity, enhance commuter experiences, and make Hornsby a model of integrated urban transport. 

But Hornsby is more than just a transport hub. Its identity is deeply intertwined with its lush natural surroundings, often referred to as the “Bushland Shire.” COX’s vision embraces this unique character, weaving green infrastructure into the urban fabric. We’ve proposed an integrated network of vegetated streets, bushland corridors, and open spaces that not only enhance public amenity but also preserve Hornsby’s connection to nature. 

Public spaces are at the heart of our design. Building on the Public Domain Strategy, we’ve developed plans for revitalized community hubs like Hornsby Square, Cenotaph Plaza, and Burdett Street Park. These spaces are designed to foster social interaction, celebrate local heritage, and provide green oases within the urban landscape. Critically, a key outcome of the TOD programme and Urban Design Framework was securing the acquisition of land in the heart of Hornsby for a new Hornsby Square. Somewhere that residents, workers, visitors and students can gather and dwelling within their Town Centre.  

This journey is more than just meeting housing targets—it’s about shaping a sustainable urban future that prioritises community, connectivity, and cultural identity. With COX’s assistance, Hornsby is poised to become a model of innovative urban design, where development meets the needs of the present without compromising the future.

The project has successfully amended the planning controls for the Hornsby TOD Accelerated Precinct within 12 months. The Urban Design Framework will provide: 

• capacity for over 6,000 new homes 

• capacity for 2,900 new jobs across the precinct 

• affordable housing contribution of between 3% to 10% for all new residential development in the precinct 

• new and upgraded parks and open space 

• new library, community centre, cultural and creative facilities 

• greener streets with better connectivity for walking and cycling.