The Chatswood CBD is the latest city centre in the cross hair of the Minns Labor Government's push to support new housing.

They're pushing for up to 1,500 apartments on the former Sydney Metro construction site, which will include 180 build-to-rent apartments for essential workers, as well as new retail and commercial spaces and outdoor areas.

<img alt="Chatswood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec539e11-accf-4844-bbce-1b453e0ee907" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-03%20at%209.09.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=64L8ymb0LbjKbxcmvUux9TI9qXL8hnkR" />

The remaining mix will be build-to-sell, and incorporate affordable housing. The development will see the adaptive re-use of local heritage building Mowbray House, which operated as a boarding school from 1906 to 1954, for future community use.&nbsp;

Construction on the site is expected to start in late 2026, with the first essential workers expected to move in by late 2028.

Landcom is inviting feedback on the proposal from the community and stakeholders until 9am, Monday 27 October 2025.

<img alt="Chatswood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01cc2e55-a585-4a3f-afb2-bb6213dc59b8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-03%20at%209.09.18%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ZaaHSI.h_CLRCYloljNdXSa4eigU6vae" />

The Chatswood site is the second&nbsp;to be secured under the Minns Labor Government’s $450 million investment in Landcom to deliver 400 build-to-rent homes for essential workers in Sydney, with 220 essential worker homes already being delivered in Annandale.

Work is also underway on new build-to-rent apartments on the NSW south coast and work is set to start later this year on new build-to-rent housing in Lismore to boost rental supply in the NSW Northern Rivers.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said essential workers are the backbone of not only Sydney but all of NSW and they deserve to have an affordable place to live near their job and community.

“This will be life changing for essential workers, who will get to live not only near their job but in one of the best-connected areas in all of Sydney.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said people should be able to live, work, relax and play all within one community.

"Delivering both 180 new essential worker homes and 1300 further market and affordable homes will give that opportunity and choice back hundreds of people.

“We’ve dedicated another 180 homes to essential workers in this project so workers like our teachers, nurses, paramedics and police offices can build a life close to both their home and job.

“This is yet another example of density done well, providing additional, homes and jobs in an area that’s already well serviced by public transport, shops, restaurants, schools and health centres.”

Landcom CEO Alex Wendler said this is a highly productive time for Landcom where we are sustaining strong momentum across our entire delivery program.

"Here at Chatswood, we are leading the development of a major city precinct to do density well and make homes happen. This is a great example of Landcom making the government’s policy ambitions a reality and bringing to life the kind of housing options our city needs.”

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said essential workers are the backbone of not only Sydney but all of NSW and they deserve to have an affordable place to live near their job and community.

Joel Robinson

NSW Gov, Landcom plan 1,500 new apartments in Chatswood CBD

Dexus' push into the residential development space is moving down to Melbourne, with the real estate asset giant taking on the southern end of St Kilda Road.

Dexus, who has recently starting developing luxury apartments in Sydney's Northern Beaches, is planning a 27-storey tower with over 400 new apartments at the intersection of St Kilda Road and Queens Road.

The proposal, now with VIC Planning, seeks to replace the ageing 19-storey former Cadbury office building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/636-st-kilda-road-melbourne-vic-3004">636 St Kilda Road</a> with a contemporary high-density apartment complex designed by architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>.

According to the Urban Context Report filed to VIC Planning, the development will respond to the site’s landmark location through a "refined and sculptural built form that mediates between the scale of St Kilda Road and Queens Road” while reinforcing “a sense of civic address at this prominent intersection.”&nbsp;

<img alt="Dexus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="434faaa4-92e5-465b-815f-6ef6bb610de0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-06%20at%2012.52.42%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=5M9gtIcIwXYR_gaG_cn2keiiIVeunDJU" />

The architectural design features active frontages, new pedestrian through-links and an extensive landscape strategy that integrates with the surrounding boulevard character.

The apartment mix is varied, comprising 40 studios, 87 one-bedrooms, 203 two-bedrooms, 66 three-bedrooms, and six penthouses, with each dwelling designed to meet the standards set out in Clause 58 of the Port Phillip Planning Scheme.&nbsp;

A key element of the proposal is a $9.6 million contribution, equivalent to three per cent of the project’s estimated development cost, to the Social Housing Growth Fund, aimed at supporting affordable housing outcomes across Victoria.

<img alt="First look: Dexus proposes 27-storey residential tower at 636 St Kilda Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f138f11-5277-461f-8d12-9533b2960586" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/St%20kilda%20rd%20site.png?VersionId=m_ZioKYhwkvekE3ZUF6y7bz.5_5yFPnZ" />

The site’s three street frontages, St Kilda Road, Queens Road, and Queens Lane, enable significant setbacks and design flexibility.

Bates Smart noted the proposal "reinforces the intent for St Kilda Road North to accommodate higher-density, mixed-use development,” leveraging its location near the soon-to-open ANZAC Station tram-rail interchange and the principal cycling corridor along the boulevard.

They emphasised&nbsp;the building’s role as a city-shaping gateway, writing that the proposed tower is “designed to contribute positively to the skyline and urban character of St Kilda Junction,” and would offer visual connections to key city landmarks, including Albert Park Lake and the Shrine of Remembrance.

Public realm upgrades are also proposed as part of the scheme, including a 138 sqm linear park, extensive landscaping, and around 188 metres of active frontages to enhance permeability and safety at the ground plane. A total of 449 car spaces and 120 bicycle spaces are planned across the four basement levels.

<img alt="Dexus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="506d75d9-af8d-4c54-838f-d3769c6cf845" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-06%20at%2012.52.37%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=OFCmyoKN04Om86jRpIdqID7nOp4hZXf5" />

Dexus is positioning the project as a strategic redevelopment aligned with the St Kilda Road North Precinct Plan. The Planning Report by Urbis states that the distinct features of the site, the emerging context to its interfaces, and the surrounding policy context justify consideration of a taller building” despite the site being subject to Design and Development Overlay – Schedule 26 (DDO26).

Wholesale Australian Property Fund (DWAPF) Fund Manager Chris Davitt said the 402 residences will be&nbsp;tailored to diverse lifestyles, all within walking distance of Albert Park and key transport links.

“We’re excited about the potential of St Albert to contribute new residential supply to one of Melbourne’s most sought-after areas," Davitt told Apartments.com.au.

“The landmark site at 636 St Kilda Road is at the gateway to Melbourne’s CBD, offering sweeping views and exceptional connectivity. We look forward to working closely with the State, council and the local community as we progress through the planning and approvals process.”

St Kilda Road has been one of the most popular streets for residential development in recent years. The likes of Victoriana, The Muse, and St Boulevard are the most recently completed buildings, oriented to look over the adjacent Albert Park Lake, while Gamuda Land is currently developing <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/fareham-st-kilda-95-st-kilda-road-st-kilda-vic-3182">Fareham</a>, and Hirsch &amp; Faigen has a building in the precinct they will soon launch, just off St Kilda Road on Queens Road.

First look: Dexus joins St Kilda Road apartment ranks with gateway tower proposal

A new 12-storey residential tower has been proposed for a compact site in Surfers Paradise, adding to the precinct’s steady transformation with a design that emphasises boutique scale and coastal proximity.

Prominence Developments has lodged a development application for the project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/23-leonard-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">23 Leonard Avenue</a>, with plans prepared by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>. The proposal comprises 15 apartments across the 36.4-metre-tall building.

According to the Urban Design Report by BDA Architecture, the project “presents an exciting opportunity to create a boutique residential tower within the evolving precinct of Surfers Paradise,” with the building designed to complement the local skyline and maximise views of the Nerang River and coastline.

<img alt="23 Leonard Avenue, SURFERS PARADISE QLD 4217" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93f4c4b3-abda-4b85-973d-21184ef1e874" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/gold%20coast%20da.png?VersionId=_36oBqDF0GgFSHZPmM4B5j0gKOZjRuf_" />

The apartment mix includes both two and three-bedroom configurations, each with expansive balconies designed as outdoor living rooms. The smaller number of apartments per floor is intended to create a sense of privacy and exclusivity.&nbsp;

“These spacious apartments are designed to accommodate a range of varying demographic, with an emphasis on maximizing natural ventilation and light,” BDA noted in their Design Report.

The podium levels incorporate car parking, 25 spaces in total including four visitor bays, while the ground plane is landscaped and elevated to provide shaded communal areas and a welcoming lobby.&nbsp;

<img alt="23 Leonard Avenue, SURFERS PARADISE QLD 4217" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d673c71e-9a44-4895-bf7d-84733ad642a4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/da%20podium.png?VersionId=WblWQ3FHZXNNi3PZ3ozUTWWo92AG3BvV" />

Batten screening to the side boundaries helps direct apartment views toward the street while maintaining privacy for neighbouring dwellings.

The architectural intent also draws on local sub-tropical conditions, with emphasis on ventilation, solar access, and organic forms. Landscaping plays a strong role across the ground level and podium edges to soften the built form.

Positioned just a short walk from the beach, the site benefits from close access to public transport, including G:link light rail stations, and is near local parks, cafes, and the broader Surfers Paradise retail precinct. The site itself is flanked by low-rise apartments and residential dwellings, aligning with the City Plan’s intent to support increased density within the high-density residential zone.

Staff Writer

Boutique apartment development planned for Leonard Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Sherpa Property Group has quickly become the most active developer in Palm Beach.

Their recent descent on the beachside Gold Coast suburb has been driven primarily by their new affordability-focussed brand, Flourish, which, with considerably lower entry points than most projects across the whole region, has unsurprisginyl been a hit with buyers.

Their latest Flourish play is on Sixth Avenue, where they are proposing <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a>, 47 apartments across a 14-storey building.

<img alt="9 Sixth Avenue" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="71c9fddd-0075-4b74-9516-27293545285a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/perspective_1.png?VersionId=5RWz4W8lpf9Xk7RKd5GumW1bdWrs5nou" />

Flourish Oasis takes cues from the site’s proximity to the beach and the relaxed coastal lifestyle, according to the documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council by HAL Architects.

“Balconies stretch like waves and wings, echoing the motion of the sea and sky,” the architecture firm noted, describing the facade’s form as "fluid and expressive."

In line with Sherpa's commitment to rooftop amenity, Oasis will have a rooftop&nbsp;pool, hot and cold plunges, and barbecue and alfresco spaces, all set amid extensive landscaping and with views across the coastal skyline.

<img alt="Flourish" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bbe3b23-e7dc-455f-a45d-8379819a492e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-09-30%20at%203.55.12%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=b_f6YkSgg039_u4FOim8qbVpVZVZqXNP" />

Sherpa only recently acquired the 810 sqm site, in another site acquisition splurge which also included a 2,050 sqm site at 1156-1164&nbsp;Gold Coast&nbsp;Highway.

Flourish Oasis, and the Gold Coast Highway project, will become&nbsp;Sherpa's third and fourth Flourish projects in Palm Beach, after Ovana and Flourish on Sixth. The developer expanded into&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brisbane-qld" target="">Brisbane</a>&nbsp;recently, launching Symphony, another under the Flourish banner.

Christie Leet, founder of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group" target="">Sherpa</a>, the group’s ambition is to lead&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221" target="">Palm Beach</a>’s renewal.&nbsp;

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221" target="">Palm Beach</a>&nbsp;is buzzing, but it’s been near impossible for locals to find something new that fits their lifestyle and budget,” Leet said.&nbsp;

“There’s a significant price gap between beachfront and non-beachfront properties – typically around 30 per cent, but in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221" target="">Palm Beach</a>&nbsp;it can be closer to 100 per cent.&nbsp;That presents a tremendous opportunity, and we believe it’s our obligation as Sherpas to identify and deliver it for our community.”

First look: Sherpa continues to expand Palm Beach pipeline with plans for Flourish Oasis

The affluent suburb of Neutral Bay is continuing to go through a new development transformation.

Several developers have jumped into the Lower North Shore locale in recent years, bringing new housing supply to the suburb considered one of the best in the region.

Growing developer CPDM is the latest entrant, as they continue to bolster their portfolio that includes several projects in&nbsp;Lindfield, Gordon and Cremorne.

They are planning a new eight-level building in Neutral Bay, with 25 apartments. They'll be triggering the affordable housing uplift, with six of the apartments dedicated as affordable.

The site, at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-37-bydown-street-neutral-bay-nsw-2089">27-37 Bydown Street</a>, is an amalgamation of six lots creating over 1,210 sqm just 50m from Military Road. It is currently occupied by several 1890s terraces which aren't heritage listed.

<img alt="First look: CPDM plans eight-storey apartment project with affordable housing in Neutral Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8099dd7a-074e-4b32-89fd-cbc0a8f14dc9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/1.png?VersionId=4pnt9IefUuMgy083LA1clU33DUzxyEaK" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>&nbsp;wrote in their submission to the North Sydney Council&nbsp;that the project’s massing, materiality, and setbacks are carefully calibrated to respond to the area’s shifting scale, citing “a gradual transition toward medium density development in pockets close to transport corridors and commercial precincts”.

“The development’s density is thoughtfully planned to be sustainable, capitalising on existing and future infrastructure, access to public transport, the site’s cultural and community value, and its environmental attributes,” PBD also noted.

The apartment mix is&nbsp;skewed toward larger residences, with 18 of the 25 apartments having three bedrooms. The remaining will have two bedrooms.

<img alt="First look: CPDM plans eight-storey apartment project with affordable housing in Neutral Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4057575-4c54-4572-914a-5a90e9983933" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_0.png?VersionId=Xaa6Xrtk0b8I9jz0AbScBGfTmy15B8iE" />

Neutral Bay is undergoing a transformation, with several new developments, and a new mixed-use precinct, slated for the Lower North Shore suburb.

Fabcot, the development arm of supermarket giant Woolworths, has plans for a new $170 million development on the corner of Yeo Street and Rangers Road. They are <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/woolworths-fabcot-propose-neutral-bay-shoptop-housing-after">envisaging 70 apartments above a public plaza</a> with a new full-line Woolworths and medical facilities.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> is close to completing <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-villas-neutral-bay-7-11-premier-street-neutral-bay-nsw-2089">The Villas</a>, 18 two- and three-bedroom apartments on Premier Street, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/thirdi-group">Third.i</a> is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/casa-neutral-bay-76-ben-boyd-road-neutral-bay-nsw-2089">CASA</a>, a collection of whole-floor apartments on Ben Boyd Road.

First look: Neutral Bay transformation continues as new eight-level building pitched

Allen Linz's Rebel Property Group is the latest developer to takes its development to the NSW Government.

Rebel has applied for a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/164-192-william-street-woolloomooloo-nsw-2011">major urban renewal project on William Street</a>. They have concept approval from December 2023 for the 6,400 sqm site at the southern end of the street. That scheme accounted for around 230 apartments, above a new&nbsp;precinct combining residential, commercial, and recreational uses.&nbsp;

The SSDA will seek further uplift through&nbsp;bonuses under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="672c0a88-01e9-4845-8dd0-33e3b165d08e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-09-30%20at%207.11.52%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=TmfhjAulgEjM1UDc20mkxXqZEyqOEY0P" />

FJC Studio won the design competition for the project in 2024.&nbsp;According to the Town Planning Report prepared by Urbis, the outcome of the competition “resulted in a high-quality urban design outcome that aligns with the desired future character of the area.”&nbsp;

“The proposal seeks to realise the full potential of the site through a contextually sensitive, high-quality urban design response that delivers housing diversity in close proximity to employment, services, and transport,” the Scoping Report submitted to the NSW Government states.

The exhibition stage of the SSDA process will provide more transparency into the number of apartments sought by Rebel, a name synonymous with creating some of the Eastern Suburbs best new developments.

Linz founded Rebel in the late 1990s. They have been behind the redevelopment of the famous Bondi Pacific on Campbell Parade, as well as The Bond, also at Bondi Beach, and Top of the Town in Darlinghurst.

First look: Rebel Property Group takes Woolloomooloo precinct to NSW Government

ICD Property has unveiled its vision for a landmark mixed-use precinct in Brisbane’s West End, set to deliver <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/25-donkin-street-west-end-qld-4101">more than 1,100 new residences</a> alongside parks, retail and public spaces in one of the city’s last major riverfront sites.&nbsp;

Located at 25 Donkin Street and 9 Buchanan Street, the 16,800 sqm plus site spans four street frontages, including 200 metres of direct frontage to Riverside Drive. The design by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> proposes six towers, ranging in height of up to 30 storeys, each shaped to reflect the Brisbane River and existing fig tree canopy.&nbsp;

The design includes over 1,100 residences, from laneway and townhouse-style urban homes to sky-high apartments, alongside activated laneways, F&amp;B at ground level, and two parks. Significant mature fig trees, some more than 200 years old, will be retained and celebrated within a network of subtropical boulevards and green spaces that unify the development and bring residents and visitors closer to the river.&nbsp;

<img alt="ICD Property unveils plans for transformative $2B+ Brisbane riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="424d4e6c-8d9a-4352-82c2-6df21e514ce2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Donkin_View2_HD_PS%20Resized.jpeg?VersionId=07syVcL3btmLQG0JhkR12xDl3wGDKCQ_" />

Offering direct river views over Riverside Drive will be 16 two-storey townhomes. A further 11 townhomes will be located along the activated laneway between Donkin Street and Hockings Street, and two townhomes will face Buchanan Street.&nbsp;

Rooftops and podium terraces will feature lush greenery, with extensive shared amenities including a terraced amphitheatre, lap pool, spa and sauna, gym, BBQ areas, coworking spaces, and yoga and pilates studios, encouraging community connection. Bridges linking Tower One and Tower Three across the ground floor laneway further enhance permeability and create a truly integrated community.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/icd-property">ICD Property</a> CEO Matthew Khoo said the project represents a long-term contribution to the city’s growth.&nbsp;

“Brisbane is facing one of the tightest housing markets in the country, with population growth outpacing supply and vacancy rates near historic lows," Khoo says.

“West End has always been a place of connection - to the river, to culture, to community. Our vision is to extend that legacy, creating new homes and public places that balance density with liveability and community benefit,” he said.&nbsp;

<img alt="ICD Property unveils plans for transformative $2B+ Brisbane riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e01ffcf3-278d-41bd-827a-0b67bc6117a0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/02-Townhouse%20Elevation%20View.png?VersionId=wtEtawLIymo7EV7hBo7V0q.4SF54idt6" />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Plus Studio Director Danny Juric said the practice was honoured to be working on such a significant placemaking project in Brisbane.&nbsp;

“This is a rare chance to transform an underutilised industrial site into a new riverside landmark. We’ve drawn on the character of West End while responding to the lifestyle and landscape qualities that define Brisbane today, creating a destination that connects the city’s past and future.”&nbsp;

<img alt="ICD Property unveils plans for transformative $2B+ Brisbane riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3b5d384-bfff-450f-ac42-b58df2186aa2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/River%20Home%20Ex%2002.png?VersionId=t63ICWzyF5QEw5Ef2LJ0F6WO9NksFbCJ" />

Located just moments from the CBD, the precinct will bring new vitality to Brisbane’s inner south while supporting housing diversity, green open space, and active waterfront living. If approved, Stage One is expected to be completed in 2030, providing significant housing ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.&nbsp;

The planning application is currently before the Brisbane City Council, with a decision expected early to mid-2026.

ICD unveils plans for transformative $2 billion Brisbane riverfront precinct

Melbourne developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hengyi-australia">Hengyi</a> is trying again to develop its prominent Bay Road site in Bayside Sandringham.

The new application, now under consideration via Victoria’s Development Facilitation Program, marks a revised approach after a previous iteration was refused by VCAT in late 2023. They are planning three seven-storey residential buildings at 208-210 Bay Road, an already cleared 5,226 sqm block just under two kilometres from the beach.

The buildings will home&nbsp;123 apartments above a two-level basement car park, along with a commercial tenancy, communal facilities, and landscaping interventions.&nbsp;

<img alt="208-210 BAY ROAD SANDRINGHAM VIC 3191" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5523a8c-47e3-47f4-b468-9fb97f241977" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/front%20full.png?VersionId=CGSZOulullVRFFbCrTAvZLXJ1jPv5.wM" />

Hengyi has addressed the key concerns from VCAT, namely&nbsp;how the building would integrate with the current environment.

The buildings step down from Bay Road towards the rear, addressing sensitive residential interfaces and the neighbouring Sandringham East Primary School. Design features include varied setbacks, upper-level recesses, and deep soil zones intended to retain and supplement the existing tree canopy.&nbsp;

Vehicular access is proposed via an upgraded crossover on Bay Road, while pedestrian connectivity is enhanced through retention of an easement that links to the primary school. Car parking is proposed to be reduced below the standard requirements, justified in part by the site’s proximity to public transport and active transport networks.

<img alt="208-210 BAY ROAD SANDRINGHAM VIC 3191" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d622acc1-0917-43d4-b8ba-8857ded0cc73" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/perspective_2.png?VersionId=iSrKHlI_D11ckyBzWdgq5QEy2TSWZCTW" />

Architect Rothelowman noted in the Urban Context Report that the proposal&nbsp;"seeks to balance site efficiency, residential amenity, and a sensitive response to its urban interface."

Rothelowman's design inspiration stemmed from asking the question 'What does&nbsp;Sandringham and Bayside have that is unique to other parts of suburban Melbourne?'

They said indigenous coastal flora and fauna, extensive areas of recreational greenland, and living by the ancient land that follows the bay, are the three key features of Sandringham.

The proposed mix includes affordable and market housing, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>&nbsp;seeking to balance increased density with amenity through articulated built forms and communal offerings such as a gym, co-working space, and rooftop spa.

John Patrick Landscaped Architects have come in to enhance the landscaping, which was another key factor in the VCAT decision to refuse the original application. Now there will be rainforest and coastal gardens with a predominantly native and indigenous planting palette.

<img alt="208-210 BAY ROAD SANDRINGHAM VIC 3191" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7cdceff0-aa99-4ed7-a159-0038e8f66fbb" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/perspective_3.png?VersionId=uvTAu41Ryn3GWKLjJrIbilvQO09MsuR9" />

The Town Planning Report by Urbis suggested the project is designed to deliver “a much-needed increase in dwelling diversity and density” in an area earmarked by Bayside Council as a Moderate Residential Growth Zone.

The Bayside Housing Strategy identifies the corridor as suitable for higher density residential renewal, aligning with the state government's recent target of 30,000 new homes in Bayside by 2051.

The application is being assessed by the Minister for Planning under Clause 53.23 due to its scale, provision of affordable housing, and $70 million-plus investment.&nbsp;The project is forecast to support 200 full-time construction jobs and deliver $56 million in gross value added during the build period.

Hengyi has previously developed Swanston Central and Light House, both in the Melbourne CBD.

The Bayside Housing Strategy identifies the corridor as suitable for higher density residential renewal, aligning with the state government's recent target of 30,000 new homes in Bayside by 2051

First look: Hengyi proposes trio of apartment buildings for Sandringham’s Bay Road

The quiet suburb of Thornbury is set for a rare new injection of new apartments, with plans to convert a&nbsp;prominent corner site on High Street into a seven-storey, mixed-use development that combines modern apartment living with an activated street frontage.&nbsp;

Positioned at the intersection of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/716-high-street-thornbury-vic-3071">High Street and Rossmoyne Street</a>, the proposal reflects a broader trend of mid-rise intensification across Darebin’s key tram corridors.

Lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> under the VIC Development Facilitation Program, the application proposes a mix of commercial, retail and food and drink tenancies at ground level, with 45 apartments above, and a basement level below.&nbsp;

<img alt="712-716 HIGH STREET THORNBURY VIC 3071" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7b12b74-089b-4c31-ba7a-409ed9dec57e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/perspective_0.png?VersionId=j4eLev8RkQn9GsxwNWP6Q_aqF.9Yv9LK" />

Antipodean Land Developments brings a track record of design-led, sustainable projects, with their recent collaborations including Balfe Park Lane and Neighbourhood, delivered alongside Kerstin Thompson Architects and Breathe Architecture.&nbsp;

For the Thornbury site, the team has partnered with award-winning studio <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/austin-maynard-architects">Austin Maynard Architects</a>, whose design approach continues their commitment to socially responsive, climate-conscious urban infill.

The architectural scheme&nbsp;introduces a mid-rise built form articulated by low street walls and upper level setbacks, aiming to create a human-scaled interface along both High and Rossmoyne Streets. The Design Report prepared by Global South highlights suggested a key design feature is the&nbsp;chamfered corner treatment, which "marks a civic corner at a significant local intersection."

The building form tapers toward the sensitive eastern boundary, responding to neighbouring residential properties and local heritage elements including St Mary’s Church and the adjacent Salvation Army Hall.

<img alt="Thornbury" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ca6b38a-d66a-4ad6-9a29-e5ddcbc62f9e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-09-25%20at%208.22.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6rpne1JM42XwtkPrEH5zmTF4zrstIppA" />

The development will deliver 45 apartments across a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations.&nbsp; Residents will have access to communal rooftop and podium-level terraces, along with improved pedestrian access through widened verges and landscaped zones.&nbsp;

The proposal for seven storeys exceeds the recommended five-storey height limit, however Ratio Consultants argues in its Town Planning Report&nbsp;the high degree of articulation and context responsive design of the building ensures that there is no excessive visual bulk. They add that there&nbsp;are various examples of mixed-use development north-south of the subject site which demonstrate overall development height in excess of five storeys.

First look: Antipodean plots mid-rise, mixed-use development on Thornbury's High Street

The $3 billion redevelopment of the Moonee Valley Racecourse is going from strength to strength.

Fresh off the back of launching the fifth stage, The Eveline, developer Hamton and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the sixth stage of the booming masterplan.

They're proposing five more buildings in what is being called the Cox Plate Precinct, with around 1,100 new residences. There will be two build-to-sell apartment buildings, two build-to-rent building, and a hotel.

The buildings will range in height from 10 to 25 storeys, and 10 per cent of the dwellings will be allocated to affordable housing.

Complementing the residential offering is over 3,000 sqm of retail space, including a circa 800 sqm supermarket, and 4,100 sqm of commercial office space. The hotel will deliver 184 rooms with ground-floor activation via lobby and retail uses.

The Cox Place Precinct is located on existing racecourse infrastructure including the grandstands, horse stalls and parade ring. The stage will further expand Tote Park, that was completed in 2020.

<img alt="MVP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fbcf5c9a-d888-43f4-8477-699e71e05a66" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-09-24%20at%2012.22.11%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=CrmaFDZFjGB5V3UGXOW1mkmBtvN4KUyC" />

Architects DKO, Nelson + Koo, and FK Australia, have collaborated on the Cox Place Precinct, alongside landscape architect Tract.

The two build-to-sell buildings, Grandstand North and South, will overlook the racecourse. Grandstand South will be a distinct tower form broken by vertical greening, and comprise around 366 apartments.

<img alt="Grandstand South" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c6f9702-dfc2-467d-8b67-5b3fdb124c16" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-09-24%20at%2012.23.22%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=Yh5OH8EIUy3BNc78Fx6Jp3QNMQXrLXMj" />The proposed stepping of the facade of the Grandstand South building

Grandstand North will present as a larger, slender tower, and home 191 apartments.

"Grandstand North presents as an opportunity for a placemaking marker at a significant intersection on the ground plane where Cox Place opens up to the racetrack," the Urban Design Report read.

"The unique oval form orients apartments and their view lines to the CBD and seeks to create a distinctive silhouette amongst the overall skyline composition of the Moonee Valley Precinct buildings. The oval form meets the ground plane to announce building entry and interlocks with the stepped and geometric expression of the podium levels as they extend along Cox Place."

<img alt="MVP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="952f3838-3aba-445a-b440-ef78b4052e53" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-09-24%20at%2012.39.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=0UGBPkv9Ed55YflyjJRt3o4FU7e6.eaL" />The plans for the Grandstand North tower

The joint venture submitted their proposal to VIC Planning in May. It will cost just over $850 million to deliver the five buildings. A build partner has yet to be named.

They anticipate to start construction on the two residential buildings in Q3 2028, pending approvals.

"We are excited to be working through the planning process for this next stage at Moonee Valley Park,"&nbsp;Hamton Managing Director Matt Malseed said.

"We are crafting a unique mixed-use precinct, and this collection of buildings will unlock further significant new housing supply for Melbourne’s inner northwest."

MVP's fifth stage, The Eveline, recently launched to the market. The two buildings,&nbsp;The Eveline East and The Eveline West, introduces a biophilic architectural approach by sought-after architecture practice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>.

Positioned at the centre of the precinct and surrounded by 20 hectares of green open space,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveline-33-dean-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">The Eveline</a>&nbsp;draws on the site’s natural and historical context.&nbsp;

Stage Six Snapshot

Grandstand North: residential housing (build to sell), commercial offices, retail (including a supermarket/grocery store)

Grandstand South: residential housing (build to sell), retail and food &amp; beverage (including signature venue)

Cox Place North: residential housing (build to rent), retail fronting Cox Place

Cox Place South: residential housing (build to rent), retail fronting Cox Place and Tote Park

Stables West: Hotel accommodation with some retail incorporating heritage stables.

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