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In October 2016 when we first kicked off the series of articles looking at the development pipeline along Melbourne's tram corridors, <a href="https://urban.melbourne/development/2016/10/13/melbournes-development-tram-59">the 59 was </a><a href="/news/melbournes-development-by-tram-the-59">first tram out of the depot</a>.

The 59 corridor, except for Elizabeth Street and Flemington Road through the CBD and North Melbourne, runs exclusively within the City of Moonee Valley through Travancore, Ascot Vale, Moonee Ponds, Essendon, Niddrie and Airport West.

Moonee Ponds was and still is an emerging hotspot of development activity with the Moonee Ponds market site a hotbed of construction with a pipeline that will likely keep on keeping on for many years yet - here's looking at you Moonee Valley Racecourse.

The October 2016 snapshot showed 38 projects with 3,201 dwelling across all statuses.  Planning Assessment, Approved and Registration and Sales status had an equal number of projects (10 each) but there was a significant amount of dwellings being assessed - thanks to the market site being before the council at that time.

Fast forward and in terms of the market site in Moonee Ponds - a few trips to VCAT and the Minister's office - those apartments have largely moved from Planning Assessment to the Approved column.

That said, there's still a good amount of dwellings at the start of the journey with 12 projects and 850 dwellings before council.

In terms of construction, the number of projects and number of dwellings is relatively stable with similar figures both for Feb 2018 and October 2016.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/editor_moonee_p.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Editor Moonee Ponds - 31 Taylor Street, Moonee Ponds - image: FKD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/editor_moonee_p.jpg?itok=vdrYAgpc" title="Editor Moonee Ponds - 31 Taylor Street, Moonee Ponds - image: FKD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption><a href="/buildings/editor-moonee-ponds-31-taylor-street-moonee-ponds">Editor Moonee Ponds</a> - 31 Taylor Street, Moonee Ponds - image: FKD</figcaption></figure><table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Aspect</th>
			<th scope="col">Number of projects</th>
			<th scope="col">Number of dwellings</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Residential projects: Planning Assessment</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">12</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">850</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Residential projects: Approved</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">14</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1,396</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Residential projects: Registration and Sales</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">12</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">731</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Residential projects: Under Construction</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">9</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">985</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>TOTAL</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">47</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">3,962</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>Mount Alexander Road (South)</h2>

One of the biggest changes since October 2016 has been the number of projects that have cropped up on Mount Alexander Road, south of the Moonee Ponds activities district. 

Previously in October 2016, there was only one project located between the City of Moonee Valley and City of Melbourne council boundary at Flemington Bridge and Moonee Ponds, now there are 6.

The Moonee Ponds activities district has no less than 20 projects and they vary greatly in size from the 30 level, 597 apartment tower that was approved through VCAT at <a href="/buildings/rise-15-everage-street-moonee-ponds">23 Everage Street</a> to the 5-level, 10-apartment <a href="/new-apartments/sur-53-homer-street-moonee-ponds">Sur at 53 Homer Street</a>.

<h2>Pascoe Vale Road, Fletcher Street, Mount Alexander Road (north)</h2>

The short stretch of Pascoe Vale Road and Fletcher Street which the 59 tram runs down sees one more project active in the database since October 2016 and no projects have been logged on Fletcher Street.

Essendon itself, where the tram turns north back on to Mount Alexander Road, has seen a slight reduction in projects compared to October 2016 from 7 projects to 5.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/linc_essendon.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="LINC - 13-21 Russell Street, Essendon - Image: REVEL Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/linc_essendon.jpg?itok=56CWyhpx" title="LINC - 13-21 Russell Street, Essendon - Image: REVEL Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption><a href="/new-apartments/linc-19-russell-street-essendon">LINC - 13-21 Russell Street, Essendon</a> - Image: REVEL Development Group</figcaption></figure><h2>Keilor Road and Matthews Ave</h2>

Keilor Road maintains a healthy number of projects thanks to the myriad of development sites afforded to the area. 

As we remarked back in October 2016, this stretch of the 59 tram route has seen significant change and it is set to continue with 6 projects on the database.

Matthews Avenue, right up at the current terminus of the 59 tram has seen its project count expand to 3 from 1.
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Alastair Taylor

Melbourne's development by tram redux - the 59

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Foreshadowed in the final months of last year, the Pakenham/Cranbourne lines - also known as the Dandenong corridor - has had various shutdowns in place in order for work to progressively open new stations and sections of elevated track.

The main shutdown of the line between Westall and Dandenong is underway and it will re-open with trains using the new elevated track and station on Thursday the 15th of February.

During this large-scale shutdown, workers have been busing installing new catenary, connecting existing tracks to the new elevated sections as well as finalising Noble Park's new station.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/noble_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Connecting track to the new elevated sections in Noble Park - image © LXRA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/noble_5.jpg?itok=MjrtbMk2" title="Connecting track to the new elevated sections in Noble Park - image © LXRA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Connecting track to the new elevated sections in Noble Park - image © LXRA</figcaption></figure>The elevation and grade separation of all level crossings between Caulfield and Dandenong will make it possible to increase train frequencies on the busiest rail corridor in Melbourne without causing mayhem on the roads.

The new Noble Park station is providing local areas with a different perspective on their local neighbourhood - locals can now see above the treetops - a rare and accessible outcome for much of the suburban South East.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/noble_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View from the new Noble Park station - image © LXRA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/noble_4.jpg?itok=oxx2WV5r" title="View from the new Noble Park station - image © LXRA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>View from the new Noble Park station - image © LXRA</figcaption></figure>The Noble Park section of grade separation involves two smaller elevated sections: one which rises over Chandler Road between Noble Park and Yarraman stations and another which includes the new Noble Park station and elevated the track above Heatherton and Corrigan Roads.

This Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA) image is taken from the larger Noble Park station section to the Chandler Road section.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/noble_2_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="From one elevated section to the next - image © LXRA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/noble_2_0.jpg?itok=ciVMXxrw" title="From one elevated section to the next - image © LXRA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>From one elevated section to the next - image © LXRA</figcaption></figure>Work is also progressing on the South Morang to Mernda rail line extension which is also being delivered by the Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA).

Images posted to the authority's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/levelcrossings">Facebook page</a> show works progressing north to the new terminus at Mernda which has a familiar architectural style rapidly rising into the sky.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mernda_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mernda station under construction - image © LXRA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mernda_1.jpg?itok=vULYb_mQ" title="Mernda station under construction - image © LXRA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mernda station under construction - image © LXRA</figcaption></figure>The end of the line, once the extension is complete, will be at a new stabling yard, currently under construction, just north of the new Mernda station.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mernda_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="End of the line at the stabling yard north of Mernda - image © LXRA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mernda_2.jpg?itok=JVmWU97m" title="End of the line at the stabling yard north of Mernda - image © LXRA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>End of the line at the stabling yard north of Mernda - image © LXRA</figcaption></figure>
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Noble Park's new station inching closer to opening

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<a href="/news/melbournes-development-by-tram-the-19">Last time we profiled the development occurring along the Tram #19 / Sydney Road corridor</a> there were 43 projects and 2,938 units in the pipeline with almost half of those projects sitting at a status of approved.

15 months later, Brunswick, Coburg and Coburg North have unsurprisingly seen their numbers increase, both in total number of projects as well as dwelling unit counts on the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

5 projects have completed construction (304 new units) and there's still a bit of cross-over - some projects have progressed, some are still sitting at approved.

Tram 19 corridor status - early February 2018.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Aspect</th>
			<th scope="col">Number of Projects</th>
			<th scope="col">Number of dwellings</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Residential projects: Planning Assessment</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">11</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1,036</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Residential projects: Approved</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">21</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1,324</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Residential projects: Registration &amp; Sales</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">9</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">397</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Residential projects: Under Construction</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">7</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">601</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>TOTAL</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">48</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">3,358</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The number of approved project has stayed roughly the same over the past 15 months, cementing Brunswick with a good pipeline of approved new dwellings. 

In October 2016 like in February 2018 there are 9 projects at Registration &amp; Sales however there are approximately 25% less dwellings currently for sale, which speaks to <a href="/news/leonard-teplin-discusses-whats-next-for-melbournes-property-market-in-2018">what the industry has been saying for a while now</a> - projects are seeing fewer apartments which are not targeted at investors but owner-occupiers.

Furthermore - there is a similar amount of apartments currently under construction - 7 projects in February, 8 back in October 2016 and there are approximately 14% less units under construction.

The biggest increase in numbers for the pipeline segment is projects before council/with a Planning Assessment status.  In October 2016 there were 6 projects representing 313 dwellings before Moreland City Council, now there are 11 projects and over 1000 dwellings.

<h2>Sydney Road (South of Moreland Road)</h2>

The heart of Brunswick maintains its place on the list of local areas where the most projects are located.   

In October 2016 it was the Anstey precinct which had the most projects but now between Victoria and Park Streets there are 21 projects (up from 13).

The Anstey precinct (plus immediate area) has 15 projects between Victoria Street and Moreland Road.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/0291_florence_street_view_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mesh Apartments - image CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/0291_florence_street_view_01.jpg?itok=abIAki0R" title="Mesh Apartments - image CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption><a href="/new-apartments/mesh-apartments-8-florence-street-brunswick">Mesh Apartments</a> - image CHT Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Coburg (North of Moreland Road)</h2>

As was the case in October 2016, north of Moreland Road, the Apartments.com.au Project Database shows far less projects than what is present south of Moreland Road.

Including projects in the area around the old Pentridge Gaol, there are 11 projects plus one more straggler located near the end of the tram tracks on Sydney Road adjacent to Batman Station.

See below for a full list of projects on The #19 tram corridor.
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Melbourne's development by tram redux: the 19

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Submissions to the Fishermans Bend Planning Review Panel have a strong theme of calling out the lack of commitments and funding in the transport component of the framework and likewise, the preferred tram bridge across the Yarra from Docklands remains a flashpoint.

There are multiple submissions from landowners in Fishermans Bend as well as many other submissions focusing on the individual precinct planning controls - Goodman as the largest landowner in the area has made a <a href="/news/goodman-group-outlines-its-future-fishermans-bend-expectations">very detailed submission</a>.

In its submission, CBRE noted it had held discussions with developers that indicated they would only consider developing in Fishermans Bend once the public transport strategy had been implemented.

<blockquote>
CBRE firmly believe that the success of Fishermans Bend is reliant on the provision of public transport. The plan clearly outlines a number of new transport strategies that will connect the precinct to the surrounding area.

CBRE believe that the office components of the plan will not be viable unless the extension to the tramline is constructed in the short term.

Developers and tenants will require certainty around the likelihood and timing of any potential train line running through the site. Anecdotally, a number of developers have indicated that they would only consider development once the public transport strategy has been implemented otherwise there would be too much risk.
<a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/application/files/9115/1313/4873/Submission_40_-_CBRE.pdf"><cite>CBRE</cite></a>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tram.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Yarra River tram crossing options that were considered - image: fishermansbend.vic.gov.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tram.png?itok=IUEOo_V4" title="Yarra River tram crossing options that were considered - image: fishermansbend.vic.gov.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Yarra River tram crossing options that were considered - image: <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0029/87059/Fishermans-Bend-Integrated-Transport-Plan-Final.docx.pdf">fishermansbend.vic.gov.au</a></figcaption></figure>The draft framework's transport plan outlines multiple options for adding tram line capacity into Fishermans Bend.  The #109 tram line currently serves parts of the Montague precinct and owing to operational and capacity constraints further upstream, this corridor would not be expanded to include new links branching off it.

Therefore the focus for tram connections shifted to creating a new river crossing with the Charles Grimes Bridge and a new bridge connecting Collins Street and Point Park considered.

The preferred option was for a fixed bridge raised 6m above the river and remaining elevated to cross the West Gate Freeway - the submissions in response to this paint and interesting picture, and note the contrast between corporate and individual interest in the case study below.

An individual who lives in Yarra's Edge was positive above the inclusion of a fixed bridge as he weights the benefits of better connectivity between Docklands precincts - the predominantly residential Yarra's Edge with the mixed-use and far better amenities on offer in Victoria Harbour - higher than any impacts on the marina upstream.

<blockquote>
It is accepted that any new bridge will prevent some boat owners from accessing the Yarra Edge marina. However, the severity of this impact is grossly overstated. The recommendation from Transport Victoria under the Transport Plan is for a bridge with 6 meter clearance. 

This height clearance will allow the vast majority of users of the Yarra Edge marina to pass beneath the Tram Extension bridge and access the marina. In fact, the Transport Plan notes that in its survey of boats in the Yarra Edge marina that the 6m clearance height would only impact 9 boats.
<a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/application/files/8215/1364/7865/Submission_204_Bryce_Paterson_Attachment_Missing.pdf"><cite>Bryce Paterson</cite></a>
</blockquote>

On the flipside ANZ which is a significant landowner in Docklands, would be impacted by any new tram bridge that would connect with the Collins Street tram network outside its headquarters.

They argue The Framework Plan has failed to give proper consideration to the impact of the proposed tram route on the Docklands Precinct and the significant planning work undertaken for the development of the Docklands Precinct.

<blockquote>
ANZ submits that the proposed tram route identified in the Framework Plan:

<ol>
<li>Fails to have proper regard to the existing public realm works between the ANZ Centre and Building Y3, resulting in an unjustified loss of public open space;</li>
	<li>Will adversely affect the amenity of the existing public realm between the ANZ Centre and Building Y3;</li>
	<li>Will pose a safety risk to users of the ANZ Centre and Building Y3;</li>
	<li>Will result in unacceptable traffic conditions; and</li>
	<li>Has not been properly considered in light of technical constraints. </li>
</ol>
<a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/application/files/6115/1364/8439/Submission_216_-_ANZ.pdf"><cite>ANZ</cite></a>
</blockquote>

The ANZ submission furthermore refers to the City of Melbourne's refusal to approve a sky bridge to provide an internal link between its two campuses and the company has concerns for its workers who will need to traverse the tram route at ground level.

<blockquote>
Melbourne City Council (MCC) resolved to recommend refusal of a proposed sky bridge between the ANZ Centre and Building Y3 (Planning Permit application 2012/004820-3, referred to MCC by the Minister for Planning).

Therefore the expectation is that workers needing to transition between the buildings, will do so at ground level.

ANZ has significant concerns regarding the safety of workers needing to traverse the proposed tram route between the ANZ Centre and Building Y3.

The current tram stop congestion already creates a safety concern during peak hours, which will be further exacerbated by the proposed tram route. 
<a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/application/files/6115/1364/8439/Submission_216_-_ANZ.pdf"><cite>ANZ</cite></a>
</blockquote>

In any case, the authority whose job it is to flesh out the transport plan has its work cut out for itself. 

To view all the submissions made to the Fishermans Bend Draft Framework Plan, see <a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/fishermans-bend-draft-framework/fishermans-bend-submissions">engage.vic.gov.au</a>.
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Fishermans Bend framework submissions highlight angst over Yarra tram bridge

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Air Asia is set to shift its double daily Kuala Lumpur flights from Tullamarine to Avalon with a new international terminal and associated border, customs and quarantine facilities set to open toward the end of 2018.

At an event attended by the Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, State Minister for Industry and Employment Bend Carroll and State Minister for Tourism and local member John Eren, it was also announced that the new international facilities at Avalon will be capable of export 14 tonnes of fresh produce per day.

Air Asia CEO Tony Fernades was also in attendance and Federal member for Corangamite, Sarah Henderson, tweeted that Air Asia wanted to fly to Thailand and Indonesia as well.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
Wonderful to be joined by <a href="https://twitter.com/JulieBishopMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JulieBishopMP</a> for this incredible announcement. The sky’s the limit for <a href="https://twitter.com/AvalonAirportAU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AvalonAirportAU</a> international airport. Two flights a day from KL, almost 500,000 passengers pa &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/tonyfernandes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tonyfernandes</a> wants to introduce Bali &amp; Thai flights. Wow! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/celebrateCorangamite?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#celebrateCorangamite</a> <a href="https://t.co/1H2BurWdM3">pic.twitter.com/1H2BurWdM3</a>
— Sarah Henderson MP (@SHendersonMP) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/SHendersonMP/status/959947427825385472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2018</a>
</blockquote>

Air Asia's current Tullamarine - Kuala Lumpur double daily flights are flown by A330-300s which have 12 premium economy and 365 economy seats. 

Assuming a double daily schedule is flown year round, this represents a touch over 275,000 available seats in each direction.

The CEO of Air Asia said via <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-02-04/avalon-airport-to-get-international-services-to-kuala-lumpur/9386336">the ABC</a> "I firmly believe this is a turning point in our great dream of making Australian and south-east Asia and Asia much much closer."

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/klia2_flickr_cc_by_sa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Air Asia operates out of KLIA2 in the Malaysian Capital - image: flickr"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/klia2_flickr_cc_by_sa.jpg?itok=pmhttL5l" title="Air Asia operates out of KLIA2 in the Malaysian Capital - image: flickr" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Air Asia operates out of KLIA2 in the Malaysian Capital - image: <a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8656/16642762245_59744d970e_b.jpg">flickr</a></figcaption></figure>Air Asia operates out of the new, vast, 'KLIA2' (Kuala Lumpur International Airport - Terminal 2) in the Malaysian Capital which is located approximately 50 km south of the city centre.  KL's airport is linked with its urban heart via the KLIA Ekspress rail service and the Malaysian capital's large freeway/tollway network

<h2>Comment</h2>

Well, it happened at last, Avalon will become an international airport.  The new investment is welcome but one can't help but feel for people arriving at Avalon. 

As it is, this represents moving of entire operations between airports, I'll be watching to see if Air Asia maintains double daily frequencies.  The airline is known to vary its flights to Tullamarine depending on the season - will its customers cop the extra distance to the get to/from the airport?

Regardless, the export handling capacity at Avalon that will be built as part of what was announced today seems to suggest whomever flies internationally into Avalon is likely to bank on taking a slice of the cargo market as well.

Lead image credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:YMAV.jpg">wikipedia</a>
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Avalon Airport says 'selamat datang' to Air Asia as new international facilities are announced

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News from Germany in recent days has seen Aldi Nord announce that it intends to build a combined 2,000 apartments above its stores in Berlin.

According to <a href="http://www.dw.com/en/german-retailer-aldi-set-to-build-2000-homes-above-its-berlin-stores/a-42393855">Deutsche Welle</a>, the retailer will build above 30 different stores throughout the metropolitan area of Berlin with 200 apartments already under construction at two of its stores.

The model has already been introduced in Hamburg and one of the primary benefits cited for Aldi is that it allows the company to expand the traditionally smaller supermarkets at each site.

<blockquote>
Rather than renovate old, one-storey supermarkets it owns, often in prime locations, the retailer hopes to get planning permission for 30 blocks with larger stores on the ground floor and apartments above.
<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/europe/aldi-owners-to-build-2-000-apartments-in-berlin-1.3378181"><cite>Irish Times</cite></a>
</blockquote>

It's not just a story of extracting even more value from the land and buildings they own - and no doubt that would be a key determinant - Aldi Nord will reportedly give back to the city by reserving 30% of the new apartments for social housing.

Berlin's population, like Melbourne's, is growing and while space and development sites are more constrained in the German capital, for Melbourne - and all major Australian cities for that matter - there is still a wide range of opportunities to redevelop traditional retail-surrounded-by-carpark sites.

Shopping centres and single-site retail precincts surrounded by car parks can often, but not always, be found near rail lines and other high-frequency public transport modes in suburban centres.   

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!4v1517805111196!6m8!1m7!1sNQHv1TVeKC_YcQUFZBblVQ!2m2!1d-37.79138351600565!2d145.0952391300483!3f300.00025241415455!4f5.494942146425672!5f0.7820865974627469" style="border:0" width="100%"></iframe>

There are already some examples in Melbourne where apartments have been developed above supermarkets - <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/yFKW48zQ85L2">ALDI in Balwyn North</a> on Doncaster Road is an example - but this was a case of redeveloping an old garage with a new building with supermarket space.

<ul>
<li>existing small to large-scale shopping centres and single-outlet premises will generally be located in a Commercial Zone.</li>
	<li>Commercial Zones can have residential uses mixed in with commercial uses</li>
</ul>
This <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/6N39o2m4U3s">Woolworths on Riversdale Road</a> in Camberwell is zoned C1Z, likewise, this <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/SAmKXWMBENK2">Coles on Grantham Street</a> in Brunswick West is zoned C1Z.

<a href="/developments/fitzroy-north-vic-3068">Piedemonte in Fitzroy North</a> has a proposal which would see the existing supermarket demolished, and an entirely new building erected on site, complete with an enlarged supermarket.

Yet one of the main gripes with this proposal is that there was no affordable housing component - which is not surprising given that developers and not compelled to include it in their developments.

Among the listed large-scale developers, Mirvac and Lendlease have both made it known they are looking to expand into the build-to-rent market and likewise they both have significant holdings in retail centres around the country.

However, it remains to be seen if these market rentals that may be built in the near future will aid with affordable housing.
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Are standalone supermarkets and small retail centres in our suburbs ripe for increasing housing supply?

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Today Apartments.com.au joins the podcasting world with the first episode of what will be a regular weekly podcast covering anything topical in the development, planning, transport spaces in Melbourne.

Over time there'll be extra co-hosts and special guests - we aim to mix things up over time.

In the first episode, I briefly cover:

<ul>
<li> Fishermans Bend &amp; MM2</li>
	<li> <a href="/news/winning-design-for-victorian-pride-centre-unveiled">Victorian Pride Centre</a>
</li>
	<li> <a href="/news/capital-alliance-and-dko-architecture-showcase-docklands-and-prepare-fishermans-bend">The new Marriot</a>
</li>
	<li><a href="/news/the-elephant-in-the-planning-scheme-how-cities-still-work-around-the-dominance-of-parking-space">The elephant in the planning scheme</a></li>
</ul>
<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="0" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/392154093&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Weekly Podcast: Episode 1 - Hello podcasting world!

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Originally launched in September 2016 by Tim Fischer, the <a href="http://www.railfutures.org.au">Rail Futures Institute</a>'s InterCity proposal presents a decades-long proposal to increase connectivity to Melbourne for Victoria's regions through an investment program that would see new or altered routes as well as service improvements on the regional Victorian Rail network.

Regular readers might be familiar with InterCity as we've highlighted or referred to the group's proposal on multiple occasions over the past two years.  Toward the end of the 2017, Rail Futures unveiled its latest update to its proposal for Victoria's regional passenger network in a presentation to the <a href="http://www.railfutures.org.au/2017/12/hume-rail-corridor-presentation/">Hume City Council</a>.

Speaking with Apartments.com.au, RFI's secretary, Bill Russell explained that the wider InterCity proposal will be continually refined by internal members of the RFI's team.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/intercity_updates.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The most recently updated InterCity proposal, December 2017"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="445" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/intercity_updates.png?itok=_0AOWsM9" title="The most recently updated InterCity proposal, December 2017" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The most recently updated InterCity proposal, <a href="http://www.railfutures.org.au/2017/12/hume-rail-corridor-presentation/">December 2017</a></figcaption></figure>In the most recent update of the InterCity proposal, the Geelong line has seen some tweaks plus there are new additions to the west of the state - reactivating the Hamilton line as well as the Mildura line.

When InterCity was first released, it advocated for a new dedicated tunnel and track for Geelong-Colac-Warrnambool trains however that's changed to a more familiar routing: another track pair in the Regional Rail Link alignment.

This four track scenario in the Regional Rail Link corridor is necessary as the InterCity proposal sees the extension of the Werribee metro line 'back and around' the Regional Rail Link line - the stations currently on the RRL corridor would become Metro stations and another track pair, already catered for at existing stations and road overpasses, would run beside the existing pair.

As was the case in the original InterCity, the Melbourne Airport Rail Link &amp; line extension to Bendigo &amp; Shepparton/Albury lines is front and centre for improving regional connectivity to the north and west of Melbourne.

And as The Age noted back in November, the Premier's public comments to VECCI on the Melbourne Airport Rail Link somewhat closely mirrored the concepts embedded in the InterCity proposal.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/original_intercity.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The original InterCity proposal from September 2016"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/original_intercity.png?itok=SJQdhFQJ" title="The original InterCity proposal from September 2016" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The original InterCity proposal from <a href="http://www.railfutures.org.au/2016/09/intercity-presentation/">September 2016</a></figcaption></figure>Stay tuned for later this year as the rail-focused think-tank plans to update the InterCity proposal once again as well as release a metropolitan network-focused proposal.  
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Rail Futures Institute updates its InterCity proposal

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<h2>Comment</h2>

In September VicRoads proposed to make Hoddle Street &amp; Punt Road a permanent clearway from the Eastern Freeway to the Yarra River as part of a larger project to alter intersections along the route.  

Also during the Christmas season, Spring Street unveiled its decision on which corridor to select for the North East Link and at the same time announced that a new busway would be built down the Eastern Freeway median between Hoddle Street and Doncaster Park and Ride.

The decision to build a busway in the Eastern Freeway median has many implications for the publicly available transport plans but in the short term, one needs to ask if the backflip on permanent clearways on Hoddle Street will only be temporary.

Vicroads conducted a community consultation with stakeholders affected by the road changes on Hoddle Street and Vicroads has summarised the main feedback themes:

<blockquote>
Here’s a snapshot of what we heard:

<ul>
<li>The majority of concerns were from businesses on the east side of Hoddle Street, about the impacts this proposal would have on customer and staff parking </li>
	<li>Many businesses had concerns about the short timeframe being proposed which did not provide enough time to plan ahead to adapt to the changes</li>
	<li>We heard concerns about how loading and deliveries would take place</li>
	<li>Some people questioned whether current bus use was high enough to need 24/7 bus lanes</li>
	<li>There is already a lack of parking in the general area.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/planning-and-projects/melbourne-road-projects/punt-road-hoddle-street/hoddle-street--streamlining-initiative"><cite>Vicroads</cite></a>
</blockquote>

Whilst some of the business affected by the changes on Hoddle Street mightn't think there's a need for permanent clearways however it's not a stretch to believe that with a large-scale bus infrastructure upgrade on the Eastern Freeway, then services will also increase. 

Other than attempting to mask the scale of the budget for a new road tunnel, why would you build a busway if the authority didn't believe more services will be running in future?   

It follows that if there are to be more frequencies, eventually, on the new busway, the same buses will need capacity on Hoddle Street &amp; Victoria Parade to get to their ultimate destination: the CBD.  Therefore it is only pertinent that I ask, what longer-term planning is being done in this area so that the concerns of today are eventually addressed when the backflip on a backflip inevitably happens?

<h2>And the wider implications</h2>

With a busway effectively pushing a Doncaster Rail line many down the road (literally?) for many more decades, what's going to happen to the second Metro tunnel project?

As many have continued to voice their displeasure at the total lack of an overall transport strategy for Melbourne, we're still highly dependent on the published plans from the previous government.  And even though the previous state government only released a heavy rail network plan, it has had many details teased out of it over the proceeding years that are now well understood.

One of those concepts was rail line reconfiguration - Sunbury (and Melton) will become one line with Pakenham &amp; Cranbourne on the Metro 1 project. 

The Metro 2 project, utilsing a tunnel across the centre of the city from North East to South West and vice versa, would link the South Morang line with Fishermans Bend.  It has since been acknowledged through other planning processes (Fishermans Bend structure plan had the most up to date information) that this second Metro tunnel will link to South-West Melbourne at or near Newport.

When South Morang is diverted through the new tunnel, as per the previous government's heavy rail network development plan, this would free up capacity on the existing Clifton Hill section, so that a Doncaster Rail line could join at Victoria Park.

But with a busway now on the cards, not a rail line for the forseeable future (I'd say two decades away, minimum, the idea of a rail line might get a serious look in once again now that the state government appears locked into the busway idea), that obviously impacts the case for the Metro 2 tunnel.

South Morang is currently getting extended to Mernda and both it and the Hurstbridge line are seeing new resident development close to the rail lines so it's a safe bet to assume that over time more capacity will be needed - but will a new entire rail tunnel required?

Do we have an opportunity to start building what Jeff Kennet has on more than one occasion said we should do - a proper light or heavy metro network for the inner-city?

Lead image credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hoddle_Street,_Collingwood,_Victoria,_Australia.jpg">wikipedia</a>
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The Hoddle Street clearway backflip and Metro 2 - what now?

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Victoria's first public vertical school in South Melbourne is set to open with the first term set to start in a few short weeks.

Deputy Premier &amp; Minister for Education James Merlino joined new South Melbourne Primary School principal Noel Creece and lead architect Richard Leonard from Hayball for a tour of the site during the final fit-out stages earlier this week.

The school, located at 129 Ferrars Street in South Melbourne, was allocated $44 million for its construction in the 2016-2017 State Budget and has steadily carved out its own corner in Melbourne's skyline.

The school has capacity for upwards of 500 students.

The primary school's designated neighbourhood boundary for enrolments includes the entirety of the suburbs of Docklands, Southbank and the majority of South Melbourne.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/smel_vertical_school_boundary.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Source: School Buildings Authority"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="613" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/smel_vertical_school_boundary.jpg?itok=AuFR_uQE" title="Source: School Buildings Authority" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Source: School Buildings Authority</figcaption></figure>Builders, ADCO Construction, entered the site just before Christmas in 2016 and have turned the site around in just over 12 months.  

<blockquote>
We’re absolutely thrilled to see our design for South Melbourne Primary School come to fruition in less than two years.

What’s more, we’re delighted to hear that enrolments for preps are at capacity, highlighting the need for such a facility in the area and that this new integrated model of school is supported enthusiastically by the community

“Many people may have had a preconception that a vertical primary school would simply resemble an office building  – but as you can see South Melbourne Primary School is far from it.

This school represents the very best in contemporary education design and focusses on the needs of 21st century students and their wider community. There’s a number of innovative, creative spaces that allow for active learning that take advantage of the building’s height.

For instance, there are a wide variety of integrated teaching and learning areas and with annexed outdoor spaces at every level providing students with seamless indoor/outdoor learning opportunities.  

Likewise, there’s a climbing play structure called the Treehouse which allows vertical connection between the outdoor learning areas on level 2 and 3, promoting exercise and physical skills.

There’s also seating steps and a perforated timber balustrade where classes can gather as a group for presentations, or students can read on their own when it’s not in use. These features emphasise how vertical schools can still provide a fun learning environment for students and encourage active play.”
<cite>Richard Leonard, lead architect on South Melbourne Primary School</cite>
</blockquote>

The first phase of the new <a href="http://www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/Pages/Schools/Richmond-High-School.aspx">Richmond High School</a> will join South Melbourne Primary School in opening its doors for day one of 2018's term one. 

Richmond High School will start with a Year 7 enrolment at first and for 2018 will have a wide designated neighbourhood boundary in 2018 encompassing many areas south of the Yarra and in 2019 the boundary will be reduced to include only minor areas to the south of the river.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/smel_1.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Lead architect Richard Leonard from Hayball and the Deputy Premier tour the SMPS site. Image: Henry Lam, Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="431" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/smel_1.png?itok=NRXeSMwI" title="Lead architect Richard Leonard from Hayball and the Deputy Premier tour the SMPS site. Image: Henry Lam, Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lead architect Richard Leonard from Hayball and the Deputy Premier tour the SMPS site. Image: Henry Lam, Hayball</figcaption></figure>Prahran High School - another vertical public school - according to the School Buildings Authority <a href="http://www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/Pages/Schools/Prahran-High.aspx">website</a> is well under construction and is due to be complete by the end of the year and will start accepting enrolments in mid 2018.
</body></html>

South Melbourne Primary School set to open for Term 1

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

Alastair Taylor

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