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The Planning Minister, Matthew Guy, today released departmental officer reports relating to the decisions made regarding all central city planning applications.

An anaylsis supplied within a media release (see below) shows all permits approved by the minister were recommended by the department; the City of Melbourne supported 46 out of the 70 approved applications, and no permit has been approved where the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure (DTPLI) recommendation was to refuse a permit.

Perhaps most interestingly, and this is a good time to reiterate that the Government and Opposition are in unofficial campaign mode, the Planning Minister has said "If re-elected, the Coalition government will continue to release these reports to give greater weight to transparency and to give all Victorians confidence that rigorous advice is being provided on all central city applications."

Full media release:

<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="undefined" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_67091" scrolling="no" src="https://www.scribd.com/embeds/244689337/content?start_page=1&amp;view_mode=scroll&amp;show_recommendations=true" width="100%"></iframe>

The entire report suite is available from the <a href="http://www.dtpli.vic.gov.au/planning/planning-applications/ministerial-permits/release-of-officer-reports">DTPLI website</a>.

Lead image credit, <a href="https://twitter.com/DTPLI">DTPLI on Twitter</a>.
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Alastair Taylor

Planning Minister releases departmental officer reports

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Amber Camberwell located at 994 Toorak Road is the latest project to involve the in-depth brand expertise of Scharp Property Marketing - an Apartments.com.au Industry Hub member.

Developer Luvarc Property appointed Scharp to create a brand that captured the luxury and sophistication of the development's design and showcase its fine attention to detail.

"We came up with an inspirational, yet clever and memorable name of 'Amber' that sits within the spelling of the suburb name of Camberwell. Amber also conjures up emotions of beauty, warmth, and sophistication having alternate associations with the jewel and alluring orange-yellow colour. Creating a point of difference from other developments in the area was essential and the ideas behind Amber set the tone and message for all marketing collateral, from brochure to website to display suite," said Malcolm Schapel, Creative Director of Scharp.

<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/luv001_lifestyle_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="396" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/luv001_lifestyle_edit.jpg?itok=TezQ3-hk" title="The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp</figcaption></figure>Set amongst the leafy residential neighbourhood of Camberwell, Amber offers contemporary apartment living on the cusp of a village atmosphere. Appealing to investors and young-at-heart owner/occupiers, the Amber brand is understated, classic and timeless, embodying its beautiful finishes and light filled aspects. Paying homage to the lush environment of its surrounding tree lined streets and parks; Scharp developed an elm leaf motif and set it beside iconic portraits of neighbouring cafes and villages to evoke a sense of sanctuary within our busy city.

Nic Cuni, Director of Residential Projects at CBRE, who managed the project marketing and sales of Amber said, "I was immediately drawn to the project because of the considered design of the larger apartment layouts which are more akin to the local owner/occupier market. With Adele Bates on board it also added extra sophistication to the interior design that is synonymous with Camberwell's understated luxury.

Developing the campaign with Scharp was fluid and streamlined - not only are they the creative agency, they are the 3D artists as well. This not only affords many time efficiencies but also a deeper understanding of the total project which is key to the development's overall success. Amber provides the opportunity for many buyers who are vying for the opportunity to be a part of the illustrious suburb of Camberwell," said Mr Cuni.

<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/luv001_living_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="394" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/luv001_living_edit.jpg?itok=WSen-AS0" title="Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp</figcaption></figure>Amber Camberwell is a three level building comprising a total of 22 apartments across one and two bed configurations. The project has been designed with flexibility in mind where prospective buyers have the option to combine units to create larger apartments to suit their lifestyle's needs.

To request more information on the project, see the <a href="http://www.amberapartments.com.au/?utm_source=Urban_Melbourne&amp;utm_medium=Editorial&amp;utm_campaign=Urban_Melbourne_Scharp">Amber Camberwell website</a>.

Scharp Property Marketing is an Apartments.com.au Industry Hub member.
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The exclusive Amber Camberwell

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Back in April of this year, a new map was drawn up and released for comment from Public Transport Victoria. <a href="http://www.danielbowen.com/2014/04/16/new-train-map-coming/">Daniel Bowen wrote</a> "PTV are trialling a new train network map. They’re seeking feedback on it, and you’ll see it at some stations now".

Since April a new revision was released and included some refinements as Daniel Bowen <a href="http://www.danielbowen.com/2014/10/12/ptv-rail-map-v3/">has documented</a>.

I broadly agree with the positive commentary that has been broadcast throughout the blogosphere and social media. The existing maps which adorn the insides of trains and on train platforms require a certain level of knowledge in how the train system operates and the new concept maps go a long way toward rectifying that situation.

For example the not-so-frequent user could be forgiven for thinking that trains ran direct from Upfield to <a href="/developments/sunbury-vic-3429">Sunbury</a> and that trains from <a href="/new-apartments/williamstown-vic-3016">Williamstown</a> terminated at <a href="/new-apartments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray</a> (this potential for confusion is even more profound if you study the maps which are located on the side walls, opposite the platforms at any of the three underground stations).

<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/current_melb_rail_map.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Current Rail network maps in use on Melbourne's rail network"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="663" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/current_melb_rail_map.png?itok=BQP3kkUO" title="Current Rail network maps in use on Melbourne's rail network" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Current Rail network maps in use on Melbourne's rail network</figcaption></figure>Enter the new maps, as linked above. The routes are grouped and arranged in a more realistic way in how the rail lines actually operate; for instance the <a href="/new-apartments/frankston-vic-3199">Frankston</a> and <a href="/developments/werribee-vic-3030">Werribee</a> lines are joined and the dotted lines show how the Frankston line at times runs through the City Loop.

The rail lines are better aligned with their geography and the inclusion of V/Line services - and the all important Myki boundary for regional services - starts to provide a better sense of the service tiers available throughout not just the metropolitan area, but the whole state.

In my view it was pretty much a rubber stamp; yes, absolutely, roll it out! That was until I stumbled across the following map by SkyscraperCity user Planks &amp; Sticks who has, again in my view, added a little stroke of genius to the new concept map, by adding key Smartbus &amp; high frequency cross-town bus routes.

<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/ptvmap_02.gif" rel="gallery-all" title="New PTV concept map with bus additions by Skyscrapercity.com user Planks &amp; Sticks"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="606" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ptvmap_02.gif?itok=M-AdGBxj" title="New PTV concept map with bus additions by Skyscrapercity.com user Planks &amp; Sticks" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>New PTV concept map with bus additions by <a href="http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=118156282&amp;postcount=7079">Skyscrapercity.com user Planks &amp; Sticks</a></figcaption></figure>Rather than emphasise our public transport network, we - and I say we because I too am guilty as charged - tend to talk about different modes in use for public transport rather than the sum of all its parts. It would be quite overwhelming to put a map in every train, tram and bus which visualises every different route in the entire Metropolitan area (although, I am a fan of Railmap's long-running and frequently updated <a href="http://www.railmaps.com.au/melbourn.htm">tram+train map</a>), however these simple additions of key routes ought to be considered.

First and foremost, the routes depicted are the primary cross-town and major links between the arterial rail network and key patronage generators, such as shopping centres which are also present on the map. Just glancing at this map tells anyone that they can get to Northland Shopping Centre by utilising an Upfield or South Morang train and then the bus direct to the door of the northern hub.

Secondly, although the bus routes are clearly marked as a different tier of service, the links which these bus routes create depict a far more comprehensive network than without them. Any Melburnian heralding from or who regularly visits the vast mass which is South East Melbourne knows there are large suburban spaces between the rail lines as depicted in both the existing and new concept PTV maps; the simple act of adding the key bus routes helps to portray the sense that public transport has the ability to bridge geographic reality.

Likewise, is it time to add a condensed version of the heavy rail network to tram maps to show interchange opportunities thus resulting in the same "big picture" effect as adding key bus routes to the rail maps?

Lead image credit: <a href="http://wongm.com/2011/07/melbourne-city-loop-next-train-displays/">Marcus Wong</a>.
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Does Melbourne's rail map depict enough information?

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The journey will take roughly 25 minutes calling at two intermediate points; the services will operate every 15 minutes for 19 hours a day; and the vehicles will run on - for the most part - existing rail corridors. Sound even remotely familiar?

I'm not referring to a Melbourne Airport Rail Link, I'm in fact referring to Toronto's <a href="http://upexpress.com/en/">Union Pearson Express</a> project that is well underway and scheduled to be operating next year.

Over the weekend Urban Toronto published a piece asking "<a href="http://www.urbantoronto.ca/news/2014/10/lanes-melbourne-could-something-similar-happen-here">The lanes of Melbourne: could something similar happen here?</a>" and in the spirit of mutual recognition our eerily similar, arguably long-lost Doppelganger located on the other side of the planet, I'd like to take a look at what Toronto's doing with its airport transportation.

The Union Pearson Express project in a nutshell:

<ul>
<li>New terminus platforms at Union Station (Toronto's central station) and Toronto Pearson International Airport.</li>
	<li>Upgrade and re-use of existing rail corridors between the centre of the city and near the airport.</li>
	<li>New branch line to allow trains to enter the airport precinct from the nearby existing rail corridor.</li>
	<li>Upgrade of two existing intermediate stations, one at Bloor which connects with Toronto's subway and one in Weston.</li>
	<li>Capital expenditure of $456 million CAD ($490million AUD in 2010 dollars), broken down in Canadian dollars: $355million for infrastructure works and approximately $100 million for service development.
	<ul>
<li>The Ontario Provincial Government-owned Metrolinx <a href="http://www.metrolinx.com/en/projectsandprograms/upexpress/upexpress.aspx">website</a> goes on to state they have awarded contracts worth $128 million for new airport station and branch line connection, $75 million for train procurement and $24 million for the development of the Union station terminus.</li>
	</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6wOnNt3WdDA" width="100%"></iframe>

This is where comparing the UP Express project with the many ideas that have been floated for Melbourne Airport Rail Link gets really spooky.

Toronto's airport is located in the über-burb of Mississauga to the west of central Toronto with a road distance (as measured by <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/Union+Station+Rail,+Toronto,+ON,+Canada/Toronto+Pearson+International+Airport,+6301+Silver+Dart+Dr,+Mississauga,+ON+L5P+1B2,+Canada/@43.6524001,-79.5750703,18092m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m13!4m12!1m5!1m1!1s0x89d4cb2cb8f8d3cb:0xc859da5affa61138!2m2!1d-79.379456!2d43.645218!1m5!1m1!1s0x882b394ac02dd491:0xb41d5de9c4030ec5!2m2!1d-79.62482!2d43.677718">Google Maps</a>) of approximately 25km. Tullamarine is uncannily similar when you <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/Southern+Cross+Station,+Docklands,+Victoria/Melbourne+Airport,+Departure+Dr,+Melbourne+Airport+VIC+3045/@-37.7865809,144.9010968,19762m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m13!4m12!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad65d4e2e5ae775:0xf6cc548ff3f8019c!2m2!1d144.953388!2d-37.81816!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad659a9ebaa3917:0xf045676052ff090!2m2!1d144.841027!2d-37.669012">measure road distance</a> from Southern Cross: 22km.

The Albion freight and interstate standard gauge rail corridor, the preferred alignment of State governments of both persuasions, <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Melbourne+Airport/@-37.7163219,144.8708364,2473m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m2!3m1!1s0x6ad659a9ebaa3917:0xf045676052ff090">passes to within 1km</a> of Tullamarine airport's southern boundary; the Kitchener GO Rail corridor which is to be used for Union Pearson express services, is <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/search/toronto+airport/@43.6975328,-79.6259714,2260m/data=!3m1!1e3">within spitting distance</a> of the northern corner of Pearson airport's boundary.

If you stick to limited-access roads, the road journey in Melbourne is more direct versus using Toronto's grid of inner city freeways. Conversely the rail journey in Toronto will almost be as direct as is possible versus, should a Melbourne Airport Rail Link use the Albion corridor, the rail journey to Tullamarine which will swing out west via Sunshine then turn north east towards the airport.

Perhaps most importantly in explaining how Toronto's UP Express project has come about so quickly as opposed to the stagnation confronted by the predicament we face in Melbourne, it's wise to look at how differently rail has developed in our respective regions.

Despite many similarities between Melbourne and Toronto - and perhaps Australian and Canadian cities in general - a stark difference lies in the way our respective rail networks have developed over time. Where many of Melbourne's current rail corridors began with private operators, nationalisation was all the rage from the 1870s onwards and it laid bare to the vast metropolitan rail network we now have reaching from the CBD to the suburban fringes in all directions.

With the colonial and post-Federation state government owned and operated rail networks acting as the backbone for suburban expansion throughout Australia well before anyone had even heard of an 'automobile, private companies pushed forward and continue to be a dominant owner and operator of rail corridors in Canadian cities. The Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Railway companies have played a part in suburban rail services in Toronto like private companies did in Melbourne a long time ago but it wasn't until (relatively) recently - in the 1960's - that the Ontario Government rolled out the 'GO Transit' services operating over private railways.

<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GO_Transit#Operations">According to Wikipedia</a>, GO Transit now owns 80% of the track in which it operates services over and given the relative lack of service frequency compared to most Melbourne Metro lines, Metrolinx (which owns and operates to the GO Transit brand for the Ontario Government) has a lot of flexibility to make projects like UP Express work.

<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/arl_spur_map-850x411.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alignment of new branch line to serve Toronto's Pearson airport"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="280" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/arl_spur_map-850x411.jpg?itok=5wlNme77" title="Alignment of new branch line to serve Toronto's Pearson airport" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alignment of new branch line to serve Toronto's Pearson airport</figcaption></figure>As I wrote last year, <a href="/news/half-of-the-melbourne-airport-rail-link-is-currently-under-construction">half of Melbourne's Airport Rail Link is already under construction</a> through the Regional Rail Link project.

In that piece I argued that the capacity which will be unlocked as part of the RRL project should be used to run rail services utilising an operator and a separate train configuration we already have to and from Tullamarine after expansion of the Albion corridor and a Tullamarine branch has taken place. I'm still very much of this view.

If you watch the current Spring Street Government's pre-campaign advertising about the Melbourne Airport Rail Link, the Government appears fixated on the notion the airport should be serviced with standard metro trains by making the Pakenham/Cranbourne corridor through-route to the Sunbury and a new airport line. The ALP's policy, stretching back to when they were last in government, is similar in that they originally proposed to have Pakenham/Cranbourne services run through the Melbourne Metro tunnel rather than the current Liberal Government's proposal to run it through existing track between South Yarra, Flinders Street, Southern Cross and North Melbourne.

Like the East West Link, this position has not be explained well, if at all.

Passengers heading to or from Tullamarine are going to have different needs than those who use the rest of the Metro network. Even a business day-tripper traveling with hand luggage to Melbourne will take up more space than the average Metro commuter.

In short, the vehicles which operate an airport service must take into account the extra spatial and luggage storage needs of airport passengers.

Any Tullamarine Airport rail link project should be an opportunity to break the "one train size/technology caters for all" mentality we have in Melbourne that so often produces great ideas but ultimately, at best, is severely delayed owing to enormous capital requirements or at worst enters the never-never. We must recognise that an airport rail link will be a premium service and therefore we should plan accordingly, just like Toronto has with the Union Pearson Express.

Image credit: <a href="http://upexpress.com/">UPExpress.com</a>.
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Is Toronto's airport rail link a model for Melbourne?

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The <a href="http://www.austapestry.com.au/">Australian Tapestry Workshop</a> and the Tapestry Foundation of Australia, in partnership with <a href="http://architecturemedia.com/">Architecture Media</a> and <a href="http://www.dentoncorkermarshall.com/">Denton Corker Marshall</a> have announced the inaugural ATW Tapestry Design Prize for Architects.

The new prize invites architects to use their knowledge and skills to create a tapestry design for a specific location: the hypothetical site is the Denton Corker Marshall-designed Australia Pavilion in the Giardini in Venice.

Australian Tapestry Workshop Chairman Peter Williams hopes to see architects embrace this competition as a chance to explore and deepen their understanding of the longstanding relationship between textile art and architectural space.

<blockquote>
This prize encourages architects to consider tapestry as an intrinsic component of their creations, not a peripheral concern. Architects responsible for some of Australia's most famous buildings such as Romaldo Giurgola, Jørn Utzon and Harry Seidler incorporated tapestry into specific spaces in their architecture. We hope to support architects to employ their conceptual skills to design textiles that enhance and define public space.
<cite>Peter Williams, Chairman, Australian Tapestry Workshop</cite>
</blockquote>

The competition will be assessed and the prize awarded by a panel of six judges, they are:

<ul>
<li>Professor Kay Lawrence AM (SA): Chair, Adjunct Professor, School of Art, Architecture and Design at the University of South Australia</li>
	<li>Professor Leon von Schaik AO (VIC): Professor of Architecture, Innovation Chair - Design Practice Research at RMIT University.</li>
	<li>Mr Brian Zulaikha (NSW): Director at Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects</li>
	<li>Ms Hannah Tribe (NSW): Principal Architect - Tribe Studios</li>
	<li>Mr John Gollings (VIC): Architectural photographer - John Gollings Photography</li>
	<li>Mr Jason Smith (QLD): Curatorial Manager, Australian Art - Queensland Art Gallery / GoMA</li>
</ul>
<h2>About the competition</h2>

The 2015 ATW Tapestry Design Prize for Architects is open to architects, multidisciplinary design groups (including at least one architect) and students in the field of architecture. Entrants are requested to provide a design or designs (limit of three) that celebrate contemporary architectural space through the placement of tapestry.

The design can be in any form: drawing, digital image, painting, collage etc. so long as the form is two dimensional. Entrants may submit their applications in digital format or physical format.

The hypothetical site as context for the tapestry design is the Denton Corker Marshall designed Australia Pavilion in the Giardini in Venice. Entries opened on the 7th of October 2014 and close on the 20th of February 2015.

The finalists will be selected for an exhibition in 2015 where the winner will be announced. The competition has a total prize pool of $10,000: first prize is $5,000, second price $2,500, third prize $1,500 and the people's choice prize will award the recipient $1,000.

For more information - including selection criteria and detailed biographies on the judging panel - see the competition's dedicated website: www.tapestrydesignprize.org

Lead image credit: Image Supplied. "The Games Children Play" 2009, designed by Robert Ingpen AO, woven by Sue Batten, John Dicks &amp; Emma Sulzer at the Australian Tapestry Workshop, materials: wool, cotton, size: 1.5m x 4.2m. Photo: in situ, Royal Children's Hospital by John Gollings. <a href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/20120628_jg_7336assem.jpg">View larger image</a>.
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Inaugural ATW Tapestry Design Prize for Architects announced

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Planning Minister Matthew Guy has announced the appointment of a new chair, one new member and the appointment of two formerly alternate members as full members to the <a href="http://www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/heritage/about/heritage-council-of-victoria">Heritage Council of Victoria</a>.

The ten member Heritage Council of Victoria is appointed by the Governor in Council upon the recommendation of the Planning Minister.

Legal member Mary Urquhart has been appointed the new Chair of the Heritage Council, replacing architect Daryl Jackson AO who retired in June after six years as Chair.

A Ministerial media release provided the following biographies on the appointees:

<blockquote>
Ms Urquhart has recognised skills in law and governance that will be well utilised in her role as Chair of the Heritage Council. A barrister and solicitor, she is currently a part time member of the Refugee Review Tribunal, and a member of the Migration Review Tribunal. Ms Urquhart was previously Deputy President of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal and Deputy Commissioner, Victorian Liquor Licensing Commission.

Callum Fraser is director of the prominent Melbourne firm Elenberg Fraser. He is a registered architect and previous Chapter Councillor of the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA).

Mr Tony Darvall has more than 35 years’ experience as a partner of law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth. He is currently the chairman of the Audit Committee of VicRoads and deputy chairman of Linking Melbourne Authority and has previously served as chairman of VicUrban and the Werribee Park Advisory Board.

General member Trish Vejby has a demonstrated understanding of and interest in Victoria’s heritage. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Western Health and has substantial governance experience on many community committees and boards of management including the Board of Commissioners of Legal Aid.
</blockquote>

“These new appointments bring specialist skills and great passion to the task of protecting and conserving places and objects of cultural heritage significance to the state," Planning Minister Matthew Guy said.
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New appointments to the Heritage Council of Victoria

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Discretionary guidelines and prescribed planning rules - it's a discussion we need to have. That's the view I formed after attending the Melbourne Conversations Urban Heritage / New Architect - where to now? event held on Monday night at the Capitol Theatre.

In many more words that what I have used above, an audience member posed that question to the panel toward the end of the 90 minute session. It was prefaced by a discussion on the sheer number of development proposals which were called in for Ministerial approval along with widespread tut-tutting when a graphic produced in Monday's Age was also displayed.

It's fair to say there weren't many Matthew Guy fans in the audience yet conversely I thought it unfair that the audience - judging by the collective groan any time a reference to the current Planning Minister was made - appeared to categorise all development approved by Guy as somewhat sub-standard. Which is quite frankly - to use a fantastic Scottish vulgarity - pish.

In his answer to the discretionary guidelines versus prescribed planning rules question, Rob Moore from the City of Melbourne explained that much like the community, developers want certainty. That certainty wasn't necessarily just planning-related but also financial.

What is the core component a developer requires in order to do what they do? Buyers? Architects? Planning Consultants? Marketers? No, it's land - the acquisition and price of land is key.

Rob Moore told the audience a story of an experience he had in a meeting with a developer where they believed more defined planning controls would have a positive, stabilising impact on land prices and would help cut out wild land speculation which currently occurs.

There were a few awkward moments of disbelief from the audience after that story however as Professor Kate Darian-Smith appealed to the audience shortly thereafter, we should continue this conversation.

If we accept our current planning system won't dramatically change (who wants to go through yet another tear-it-up-and-write-another-strategy process?), how can it change to give both industry and community certainty?

Much criticism was heaped on Plan Melbourne for its lack of any controls to compel the inclusion of affordable housing in new development - is that the only area which needs to have serious debate prior to the first review of Plan Melbourne?

When is the best time to add planning controls so the market players can adjust their business models?

Should we give anti-change organisations like Planning Backlash a voice or treat them like a Sydney radio shock-jock (best ignored)?

Can we have our cake and eat it too?

The floor (and comment thread below) is open.

Lead image credit: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hoddle_Map_1_1837.JPG">Wikipedia</a>.
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Prescribed rules and discretionary guidelines: it's the discussion we need to have

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There are very limited spaces available for architects, developers and project managers to attend a tall buildings seminar in Melbourne’s CBD next week.

“Skyscraper Trends In Melbourne: From Super Skinny To ‘Prefabulous’” is part of Meinhardt’s imagin8 seminar series and is presented in partnership with Apartments.com.au.

Melbourne has become a hotbed for tall building development, with the Planning Minister dubbed ‘Mr Skyscraper” following a raft of development approvals. So what’s next?

<ul>
<li>Where are the hotspots for new towers?</li>
	<li>What is the market looking for?</li>
	<li>How do we optimize development sites, maximize floor plates and improve returns?</li>
	<li>How can we build better, faster and more safely?</li>
</ul>
The speaker line-up includes Andrew Leoncelli, Managing Director – CBRE Residential Projects and ex-Melbourne Demon, George Argyrou, Managing Director and co-founder of builders Hickory Group and Jon Brock, Meinhardt’s National Director of Land Development.

The event, on Wednesday 1st October at 4.30pm, will be held at Meinhardt’s 501 Swanston Street offices and is free to attend.

The last remaining spaces will be allocated on a first-come, first served basis.

To register your interest, email Justin.farmer@meinhardtgroup.com with your name, company and contact details. More information can be found at http://practicalimagination.info/imagin8/skyscraper-trends-in-melbourne-from-super-skinny-to-prefabulous/

UPDATE: Friday 26/9/14 11am:  Justin reports that all seats have now been filled - thank you to everyone who has expressed an interest in attending.
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Meinhardt and Urban.com.au present a seminar on skyscraper trends in Melbourne

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Places Victoria received three new independent board members on Monday with the appointment of Tamara Brezzi, Robert Goudswaard and Graeme Parton.

The Planning Minister Matthew Guy said of the new board members "the Board and management team at Places Victoria, led by CEO Gregory Anderson, has continued to drive the organisation’s transformation. I am delighted to announce the appointment of three new independent board members, Tamara Brezzi, Robert Goudswaard and Graeme Parton".

A media release from the Planning Minister provided a short biography on the three new board members:

<blockquote>
Tamara Brezzi is a planning and environment lawyer and qualified town planner with over 22 years’ experience in all aspects of planning and environmental law. Ms Brezzi is also President of the Victorian Planning and Environmental Law Association.

Robert Goudswaard has extensive financial and business experience, having held a number of senior executive roles within the ANZ Bank and having managed risk for the institutional division of Institutional Global, during the global financial crisis.

Graeme Parton has over 35 years’ experience in the property development and construction industry, as a consultant providing strategic property advice to State and local government, and in project development management and economic and market feasibility services for major projects. He has previously served on the Places Victoria board.
</blockquote>

The Planning Minister went on to say: "Places Victoria is now in strong position to focus on its core urban renewal mandate. It has been tasked with the important role of working closely with both government and the private sector to unlock the potential of urban development sites and revitalise neighbourhoods".

The appointments come six months after the Napthine Government axed the previous board.

Lead image credit: <a href="http://www.australiandesignreview.com/designwall/1524-architecture-goods-shed-north">Architecture Design Review</a>.
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Places Victoria board expands by three

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Late on Friday afternoon <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-09-19/melbournes-historic-forum-theatre-to-get-a-32-storey-revamp/5756802">the ABC reported</a> that Planning Minister Matthew Guy had approved the Forum Theatre restoration and Hotel development which Apartments.com.au previously <a href="/news/progressive-development-or-cultural-vandalism">reported on back in March</a>.

The 32 level tower will include boutique hotel suites, retail and office spaces with a pedestrian link through to Hosier Lane. Crucially it's been reported there are substantial changes to the Hosier Lane site boundary, which have been implemented in order to lessen the development's impact upon the venerable art and tourist area.

Quoted in the ABC report, Matthew Guy said "people shouldn't be concerned about any encroachment on street art, because it will virtually all remain - 99 per cent of it will still be there as it is now". The approved development has reduced the impact on Hosier Lane, and its street art precinct, from 16 metres to 3 metres, the Planning Minister said.

A subsequent report in <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/planning-minister-matthew-guy-signs-off-on-controversial-hosier-lane-hotel-20140919-10jhoj">The Age</a> commented that <a href="http://www.townplanners.com.au/">Clement Stone Town Planners</a> had successfully argued to have the Planning Minister designated as the responsible authority when the Forum Theatre and tower proposal's gross floor area is combined. City of Melbourne had opposed the plans in May this year.

Incidentally expressions of interest have been called for <a href="http://hosierrutledge.wordpress.com/">Paint UP Round Two</a>, which will see a second building along Hosier Lane adorned with a large-scale painted image. While revised plans for the Forum Hotel's interaction with Hosier Lane have yet to be spotted, the original planning application provides some indication as to what can be expected, as seen below.

<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/image7_24.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Original plans for an altered Hosier Lane - images courtesy of Scharp."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_24.jpg?itok=EoDgN__n" title="Original plans for an altered Hosier Lane - images courtesy of Scharp." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Original plans for an altered Hosier Lane - images courtesy of Scharp.</figcaption></figure>
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The forum finds favour

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Alastair Taylor

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