Local jobs are a major priority of the plans for the state-led Wilton Growth Area, with Wollondilly Council commissioning a study into the commercial centres proposed for the area, to hear community feedback on what are the priorities.

The draft Wilton Growth Area Commercial Centres Study aims to identify the employment and economic development potential of the centres, establish their specific roles, and find out what is needed to support the future population.

Council is now seeking feedback from the community and stakeholder groups about the outcomes of the study to make sure it reflects the community’s priorities.

Mayor Matt Gould said, “Wilton will have a critical role in the supply of retail and commercial jobs for the whole of the Wollondilly Shire, including new community and health services.”

“When it is complete, the Wilton Town Centre is expected to generate up to 2365 retail jobs, with up to 635 being generated in the other local centres combined.”

“The purpose of the Commercial Centres Study is to understand what we need to support the future population of the area, and to provide an evidence-based framework to support future decision making.”

The Wilton Growth Area will include space for supermarkets, cinemas, a discount department store, specialty retail, restaurants, speciality food and catering, personal services such as hairdressing and beauty, health and leisure facilities and more.

Mayor Gould noted, “While Picton will remain as the primary civic centre and cultural hub for Wollondilly, Wilton Town Centre will provide a range of services, entertainment and along with that, employment.”

The exhibition of the Commercial Centres Study begins on Wednesday 27 July and closes Wednesday 7 September at 4:00pm. Head to Council’s Your Say page to provide feedback.