Dozens of public housing tenants in Waterloo are now being asked to leave their homes months before any replacement housing is ready, as the redevelopment moves from planning into active relocation.
Long-term residents asked to leave familiar homes
Evelyn Morris has lived on Cooper Street in Waterloo for 27 years. Known among neighbours for her involvement as a tenant representative, she is now facing a move after receiving a six-month relocation notice. Her home sits on land earmarked for a new park, part of the wider Waterloo Renewal Project.
She is one of 99 tenants on the western side of the proposed park who have received relocation notices. Some residents, including Ms Morris, have long ties to the area and have raised questions about where they will go next.
Demolition approval signals next stage of works
In a letter sent to residents, Homes NSW confirmed that demolition has been approved for several buildings in Waterloo South, marking a key step in the redevelopment process.
The notice outlined that buildings across John Street, Cope Street, McEvoy Street and George Street will be cleared as part of Stage 1, following consultation with the City of Sydney Council and the local community.
Demolition is expected to begin around mid-2026 and will take place over six to nine months as part of a staged program. One property at 29 John Street will remain in use temporarily under a short-term rental arrangement until about mid-2027.
The update did not directly address the timing of relocation, but it shows that site preparation is advancing while relocation notices are being issued in Waterloo South.
Relocations begin before new housing is ready
The relocation process forms part of the first stage of redevelopment in Waterloo South, the largest section of the renewal project. The plan includes new social housing, affordable housing and private dwellings, along with community facilities and open space.
However, no replacement homes for these tenants have been completed yet. Residents who wish to remain in the area may have to wait for suitable vacancies in existing public housing.
Information provided to tenants outlines the relocation process, but some residents say key questions remain unanswered, particularly about timing and access to new homes within the community.
Agencies say early moves allow time for support
Homes NSW has said relocation is starting early to give staff enough time to work with tenants and find housing that suits their needs. The agency has indicated that as many residents as possible will move into newly built homes as they become available, while others may be placed in nearby suburbs such as Redfern and Glebe.
The broader housing program also includes statewide efforts to increase supply and upgrade existing homes, with thousands of new dwellings planned across New South Wales.
Planning agreement adds to uncertainty around timing
The redevelopment is guided in part by a Voluntary Planning Agreement between Council and project partners. This agreement sets out when key infrastructure, including the new park, must be delivered.
Council has said it does not believe the agreement places immediate pressure on relocating residents for the park. As construction has not yet reached that stage, questions remain about why notices are being issued now.
Community faces disruption as plans move forward
The move raises concerns about losing connections built over the years in the area for long-time residents. Moving away, even temporarily, can mean leaving behind familiar services, neighbours and support networks.
The redevelopment is planned to deliver modern homes and improved facilities, but tenants receiving notices are still seeking clarity on where and when they will move.
More details on staging and design are expected when the Waterloo South concept plan is formally released, which may clarify how relocations and construction will align.
Published 29-April-2026
