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Construction Commences at Jacaranda Housing Estate in Glossodia
Construction has officially begun at the Jacaranda housing estate in Glossodia, with early works now underway as part of the delivery of a new masterplanned community for the Hawkesbury region.
Residents may notice increased activity on and around the site during January and February, as crews undertake initial site setup, preparation and large-scale earthworks to shape the land for future homes, streets, open spaces and infrastructure.
A key focus of the early works is the decommissioning of an existing farm dam on the site. Responding to questions raised by local residents, Senior Development Manager for Jacaranda, Jacqueline Lukins, said the dam is currently being dewatered and will be replaced by a new lake and wetland system.
“The existing farm dam is being decommissioned; it is currently being dewatered,” Ms Lukins said. “Following this, a new lake and wetland area will be constructed in accordance with current Australian Standards, engineering specifications, and Council requirements.”
Ms Lukins confirmed the works were approved by Hawkesbury City Council under Development Consents 0266/23 and 0343/23, following environmental and biodiversity assessments undertaken by both New South Wales and Commonwealth authorities.
Environmental protection measures are in place during the works, with specialist oversight provided by qualified ecologists.
“A site-specific Dam Dewatering Plan was prepared by our ecologist and approved by Council under the development consent,” Ms Lukins said. “This plan outlines procedures to minimise impacts on fauna and includes detailed protocols for the safe relocation of native terrestrial and aquatic species. All works are being carried out in accordance with this approved plan.”
Concerns around bird breeding seasons were also addressed, with Ms Lukins noting that water bird breeding patterns can vary depending on conditions.
“To manage this, we implement inspections to identify the presence of any nesting or breeding individuals, and if present, works are timed accordingly to avoid unnecessary disruption,” she said. “Our ecologists have confirmed that no nests or juvenile birds were observed on site this morning.”
She added that ongoing inspections will continue, and the approved plan requires immediate notification to aquatic ecologists if nesting birds or chicks are identified.
As part of the approved development, the dam will be replaced with new aquatic habitats.
“Our development approval includes the creation of a new lake and wetland,” Ms Lukins said. “The lake will feature native aquatic plants strategically planted to improve water quality and provide habitat for aquatic life. The wetland is designed to function as a natural filtration system while offering habitat for birds, fish and other wildlife.”
Additional planting will include macrophytes, ephemeral species and riparian vegetation, along with community amenities such as footpaths, playgrounds, BBQ areas and outdoor gym facilities.
Beyond the immediate site, Ms Lukins said the developer is also delivering long-term environmental outcomes.
“Celestino is establishing a biobanking site spanning over 12 hectares,” she said. “This land has significant biodiversity, plants, animals and ecosystems that is legally protected and managed under a government agreement in perpetuity.”
She also confirmed that land along Currency Creek will be revegetated and dedicated to Council as public open space, restoring habitat previously lost due to private land use.
Council oversight is ongoing, with Ms Lukins confirming that Hawkesbury City Council has inspected the site since works commenced.
In February, major earthworks will continue, alongside upgrades to the Spinks Road intersection to improve access and connectivity.
With construction now underway, developers say the next land release is approaching, and further updates will be provided as the Jacaranda community continues to take shape.
