A new research paper reveals that Sydney's suburban front gardens are shrinking dramatically due to residential redevelopment, with the average front garden declining by 46% in areas where older homes have been replaced by larger modern houses. The study, analyzing 370 properties, found that driveway footprints and artificial surfaces increased by 57%, while tree canopy coverage was reduced by 62%.
The findings highlight significant gaps in urban planning policy, as there are no mandated minimum standards for private green space or tree canopy in New South Wales. This incremental loss of gardens contributes to urban heat, reduced biodiversity, and a loss of neighborhood character, raising concerns about meeting Sydney's 2035 canopy coverage target without stronger regulatory intervention.