Prominent Sydney developer Deicorp has secured approval at three of its most significant landholdings in Melrose Park, Parramatta and Crows Nest.

The three projects, expected to launch this year, will contribute over 1,200 apartments to the undersupplied Sydney apartment market.

The Melrose Park precinct, a $700 million joint venture with PAYCE, will be the largest project Deicorp handle. It is set to include six Turner Studio-designed buildings ranging from six to 24 storeys.

They'll in essence be creating a new town centre, with the near 500 apartments sitting atop&nbsp;a five-storey commercial podium, spanning 30,000 sqm and accommodating offices, retail spaces and medical and childcare facilities.&nbsp;

<img alt="Deicorp PAYCE" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="acb397ae-7df9-488f-839d-f6c11cf74462" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-22%20at%208.21.06%20pm.png?VersionId=lyAIIAOS1pS2a0pP7wb8uEDzlujGH586" />

The majority of the apartments are two-beds (70 per cent) while there will be around 25 per cent of one-bedders and under 10 per cent three-bedroom apartments.

&nbsp;

The development will also offer 1412 commercial and residential parking spaces and will be executed in two stages.&nbsp;

Plans for Melrose Park were submitted to the City of Parramatta in September 2022, marking the beginning of the transformation of the industrial 55-hectare area into a high-density mixed-use and residential precinct.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/deicorp-and-payces-melrose-town-centre-plans-revealed">Deicorp and PAYCE's Melrose Town Centre plans revealed</a>

&nbsp;

The Cosmopolitan project, the second approved project for <a href="/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a>, involves the construction of a 46-level twin tower at 34 Hassall Street, <a href="/new-apartments/parramatta-nsw">Parramatta</a>.&nbsp;

Pitched to cater for Parramatta's growing population, 600 apartments will be constructed across the two towers, as well as shops and workplaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138590 project_image_fid=236113]

Another designed by Turner, the entire structure of <a href="/new-apartments/cosmopolitan-by-deicorp-parramatta-34-hassall-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">Cosmopolitan</a> is inspired by nature, offering a park-like experience for residents and visitors.&nbsp;

The apartment's design follows this theme, providing district views of nearby points of interest, such as the river and parkland, inviting the surrounding nature into each home.&nbsp;

The project includes a raised podium on levels one, two and three dubbed as Gully Forest, with the feature landscape sanctuary set to be embellished with a range of lush greenery, in addition to a series of smaller breakout and seating spaces which have also been included, along with a feature outdoor kitchen and a series of garden pavilions.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138590 project_image_fid=236116]

An open-air community space offering barbecue facilities and smaller group gathering areas will also be located on the level two podium.

The third is a 16-level development in Crows Nest, which has <a href="/news/nsw/deicorp-secure-gazettal-approval-for-falcon-alexander-crows-nest-apartment-development">just secured gazettal approval</a>.

The tower, which has been frequently reduced in size to meet planning controls, is spread across three sites fronting&nbsp;Pacific Highway, Falcon Street and Alexander Street, also known as the Five Ways Triangle site, near the upcoming Crows Nest Station which will be connected to the Sydney Metro.

Deicorp will now file plans for the 16-level building with 129 apartments after secured the initial approval to develop. The 13 residential levels will sit above a three-level commercial podium and 247 basement parking spaces.

There is a fourth project part of Deicorp's extensive portfolio, a 212-apartment project in Rhodes designed by Fender Katsalidis.

Staff Writer

Deicorp's 2024 Sydney apartment development pipeline bolstered with 1200 apartments approved

Brisbane developer Pyco Group is expanding its footprint in South East Queensland, and it's doing so in one of the region's best locations.

<a href="/developers/pyco-group">Pyco</a>, led by Lachlan Cottee, is set to transform a prime corner block just one row back from the Kirra Beach into a 14-level tower with 97 apartments dubbed <a href="/new-apartments/onde-kirra-10-churchill-street-coolangatta">Onde Kirra</a>.

The owner-occupier-focused developer, who is currently developing&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/atelier-110-vulture-street-west-end">Atelier</a> in <a href="/developments/west-end-qld-4101">West End</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/nouveau-albion-8-16-anstey-street-albion">Nouveau</a> in <a href="/developments/albion-qld-4010">Albion</a>, is creating some of the largest apartments in the neighbourhood. Of the 97 apartments proposed, 79 are three bed, while the other 18 have two bedrooms.

<img alt="PYco" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cdb9b975-4e24-4128-883d-b4d41b50a9e6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-19%20at%2012.07.49%20pm.png?VersionId=XY39wNeKPRZvi4xH7UHBzyr8J1Rq6trJ" />

Pyco has amalgamated four sites,&nbsp;10 and 12 Churchill Street, 17 Miles Street and 51 Winston Street, to create the 2,044 sqm site for the project, dubbed in the planning application "Kirra Beach Residences".

Architecture firm DAHA said in their design statement submitted with the application to the Gold Coast City Council that their approach creates a space that complements the natural beauty of the Gold Coast landscape whilst elevating the experience of beachside living.

"Taking cues from the vibrant local context of Kirra and Coolangatta,&nbsp;our&nbsp;design&nbsp;boasts&nbsp;a&nbsp;harmonious fusion of local colour schemes, material paleƩes,&nbsp;and&nbsp;lush&nbsp;landscaping&nbsp;that&nbsp;seamlessly&nbsp;blurs&nbsp;the boundary between architecture and natural environment.

"Stepped facades, meticulously&nbsp;crafted&nbsp;to&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;equal&nbsp;light,&nbsp;refreshing&nbsp;breezes,&nbsp;and&nbsp;breathtaking views for each apartment, epitomize a thoughtful&nbsp;approach&nbsp;to&nbsp;elevated&nbsp;coastal&nbsp;living,&nbsp;creating&nbsp;an oasis of comfort."

<img alt="Pyco" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab84fb7e-de1b-4892-80b7-c50ee5270c05" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-19%20at%2012.10.05%20pm.png?VersionId=urZykZlYltqZXmU4oe.ogh_w7IcJAV0x" />

The three-bedroom apartment sizes start from 113 sqm.

The resident amenity on the ground floor, set back from the street and elevated, includes a swimming pool, gym, sauna, resident work from home office space, and a media room.

The site is currently occupied by two houses, two low-rise blocks with four units in each, and two small-scale commercial tenancies. Two years ago approval was given on the Churchill St sites for a nine-level, 40-unit building.

<img alt="Pyco" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ffdeac8-cf53-4c68-a79c-0ce64e874d7a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-19%20at%2012.10.15%20pm.png?VersionId=ykN0nU0G30xmTUpDQdRkwxo0lDG_AhjS" />

The Town Planning Report by Mewing Planning Consultants said the height of the proposed building height complies with the Strategic Framework provisions that enables up to 50 per cent additional height above the acceptable outcome.

"The building height is consistent with the established and new developments in the locality," the report noted.

The <a href="/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a> neighbourhood, Kirra in particular, has seen a wave of off the plan interest in the last few years, with the likes of Hirsch &amp; Faigen's Emerson Kirra, Awaken and Esprit by S&amp;S Projects, and Rhythm Kirra Hill by Immerse Projects.

Pyco's new project bridges the affordability gap and will bring something different to the surf mecca. Pyco is also preparing a project in Sydney's Freshwater.

Joel Robinson

First look exclusive: Coolangatta's newest apartment tower plans revealed

It's been third time lucky for developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a>, who has secured gazettal approval for its 16-storey mixed-use project at the Five Ways Junction in <a href="/new-apartments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a>.&nbsp;

They withdrew their first proposal for the site, which borders Pacific Highway, Alexander Street and Falcon Street, back in 2020, and then had their second application, which was a drop in density from 36 levels to 19 levels, rejected.

The gazettal approval is for 16 levels with 129 apartments designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/turner-studio">Turner Studio</a>. The first three levels of the project will be a podium with 8,000 sqm of commercial space. The seven basement levels will home 247 car spaces.

<img alt="Deicorp Fiveways Junction Approval " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="364f36b1-f329-40ed-8399-5f7dce86f7c9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crows%20Nest%20Fiveways%20Junction.png?VersionId=xRkakwgnaF87Ptzz0AfySNqAz1RCYJ3x" />

The project application approval follows the official rezoning of the site in December, ushering in a new era with favourable planning controls. Notable changes include an increased height limit from 16 metres to 62.5 metres, facilitating the creation of a 16-storey mixed-use structure.&nbsp;

Situated just minutes from the soon-to-be-opened Crows Nest Metro Station, the strategic location ensures convenient and frequent access to <a href="/new-apartments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a>&nbsp;and the CBD.

The island site is part of the NSW government's ambitious place-led renewal policy for North Sydney.

Comprising 19 allotments, the successful amalgamation of lots enables a holistic redevelopment with a unified public domain.

<img alt="Deicorp Fiveways Junction Approval " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4745ea78-fccf-4a52-ad1b-9b61c279f01e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Fiveways%20Junction.png?VersionId=PHONbGlKF7uPE7cpw_N1OHX_R8rou7OR" />

Upon completion, the project will extend the village's public domain, forge better connections to key bus transit stops, create valuable employment opportunities, and provide much-needed additional housing.&nbsp;

The Five Ways approval joins Deicorp's recent development approval success in <a href="/new-apartments/parramatta-nsw">Parramatta</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a>&nbsp;which brings them 1,200 apartments in their immediate pipeline, adding to their&nbsp;3,200 units already under construction.

The island site is part of the NSW government's ambitious place-led renewal policy for North Sydney

Deicorp secure gazettal approval for Falcon & Alexander, Crows Nest apartment development

Broadbeach is set for it's next luxury apartment tower with Sola, the 22-level tower by Ature Group who founded popular retailers SABO and Zaco, securing approval from the Gold Coast City Council to develop the project.

<a href="/new-apartments/sola-158-surf-parade-broadbeach">Sola</a> features&nbsp;a slender design, penned by Prospect Apartment Architecture and Esat Studio, seamlessly melding a contemporary beach house narrative with sophisticated sculptural details more akin to architecture and details from the Mediterranean.&nbsp;

The site was purchased in 2022 for an around $6 million and will deliver 20 exclusive full-floor apartments with custom stone and wood interiors, as well as top-tier amenities. The three-bedrooms apartments are expected to start from $2.75 million when they launch in February through MOTIV.

<img alt="SABO fashion house founders receive Planning Approval for Luxury 22 Storey Broadbeach tower ‘SOLA.’" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba705f2d-a880-42ee-99da-b2c183f3475c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/SOLA%20tower.png?VersionId=t7EKW4HQjpMUaXv2P.zsLJSVASXGixAx" />

The tower will take up just 269 sqm of the 640 sqm Surf Parade site, designed in response to the solar aspect and to the capture the famous Gold Coast views, whilst remaining sympathetic to neighbouring buildings.&nbsp;

The founders of Ature Group siblings George Kouzoukas and his sister Thessy Batsinilas, and George’s wife Yiota, who together have been making a name for themselves in luxury fashion since 20. They've also quietly been developing commercial and luxury residential properties for over a decade, delivering nine projects. Thessy and Yiota have also been featured in &nbsp;Asia’s coveted Forbes 30 under 30 list.&nbsp;

Sola represents Ature Group’s largest and most high-end project to-date. It will be the first residential project in Queensland directly influenced by the design aesthetics of fashion, drawing inspiration from the trio’s travels as they introduced the SABO and Zaco brands to the world stage. &nbsp;

Ature Group aims to leverage the enduring demand for penthouse-inspired lifestyles, with Sola designed to attract discerning buyers seeking a distinctive and elevated living experience.&nbsp;

The synergies between SABO, Zaco, and Ature seamlessly align, as each of the brands are progressively driven by sophisticated design. Ature Group serves as the manifestation of the SABO founders' vision in the realm of property development, delivered with their trademark luxurious resort aesthetic.&nbsp;

<img alt="SABO fashion house founders receive Planning Approval for Luxury 22 Storey Broadbeach tower ‘SOLA.’" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bee48fe9-9742-4972-a031-76b28b9784f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/SOLA.png?VersionId=wMxK2onI0lYIJIPpf3AuBTxfOl4aLGKt" />

“Through the evolution of our fashion labels SABO and Zaco, we have been lucky enough to travel the world, visiting luxurious locations and high-end homes, which has served as inspiration for our fashion ranges,"&nbsp;<a href="/developers/ature-group">Ature Group</a> Director&nbsp;George Kouzoukas says.

"Sola is an organic extension of our commitment to exploring our creative abilities. Drawing from the same principles that have shaped our fashion house, we’re embarking on crafting living spaces where sophistication converges with innovation, weaving the artistry of design into the fabric of contemporary living.&nbsp;

“The aim for Sola was to create a beach house in the sky, under the same guiding influences. We have fused bespoke finishes and design with incredible protected views to deliver refined living for our clients, that reflect Broadbeach’s bold identity as the heart and soul of the Gold Coast."

Three of the apartments will be held for the SABO founders, underpinning their confidence in the project as a milestone development for <a href="/new-apartments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> in terms of luxury and lifestyle.&nbsp;

Sola is due to launch to the market in February 2024 through MOTIV.

Ature Group aims to leverage the enduring demand for penthouse-inspired lifestyles, with Sola designed to attract discerning buyers seeking a distinctive and elevated living experience

SABO fashion house founders secure approval for luxury Broadbeach apartment development Sola

Harry Triguboff's apartment giant Meriton has revealed the full plans for its debut apartment development in Brisbane.

Having bought the Gardens Apartments building at <a href="/new-apartments/204-alice-street-brisbane">204 Alice Street last year</a>, <a href="/developers/meriton">Meriton</a> has filed plans for two massive skyscrapers with 795 apartments designed by their go-to architect in Queensland DBI, who has designed Meriton's recent Gold Coast portfolio.

The $1.3 billion development on the 5,485 sqm site directly across the road from the City Botanic Gardens from the Alice Street frontage, will also include a childcare centre, retail and food and beverage spaces, and communal open space facilities like swimming pools, an outdoor gym and play space on the level five podium level, before it gives way to the main tower structure.

<img alt="Alice St Brisbane" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="724f2714-7819-4b3f-bc80-6358ab5cb9fb" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-10%20at%208.48.32%20am.png?VersionId=YmnsitwRbYgiW33GJ4xxve8r4_D6C8Yh" />

The majority of apartments are two-beds (521), while every one-bedroom apartment (208) has a study. There's 156 three-bedroom apartments and 32 four-bedders.

There's 913 parking spaces across the five basement levels and four podium levels.

DBI said in their Urban Design Context Report submitted to the <a href="/new-apartments/brisbane-qld">Brisbane</a> City Council that the&nbsp;two-tower development takes cues from the surrounding context including the city’s urban fabric as well as the Botanic Gardens and seeks to compliment the adjacent heritage and place character.

"The development is set to become a landmark Brisbane destination and provides a visable presence on the skyline of the city.

"The tower plates have been carefully shaped to maximise the amenity of future residents and visitors and provide generous balconies offering access to Brisbane’s outdoor lifestyle. The towers are strategically located to minimise overshadowing and over-dominating the Botanic Gardens. The sculpted subtropical podium conceals a multilevel carpark, sleeved by activated uses and features a double-height lobby framed by the backdrop of the Botanic Gardens."

<img alt="Meriton" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d36ce6c-c90d-4b09-95f9-8c1bb093a16b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-10%20at%208.48.04%20am_0.png?VersionId=vXDDD85FhAZcyacVbmE1uVKkJgmFdYN0" />

They said 204 Alice Street is at "the centre of a critical mass of new activity, urban living and commerce."

"The area around 204 Alice Street is positioned for further dynamic growth in the years to come with a proposed transformation of the Eagle Street Pier Precinct into a world class mixed-use riverside destination, Waterfront Brisbane," DBI said.

"Another large-scale development within Brisbane’s CBD is the Queen’s Wharf project, set to transform the river’s edge into a cultural and entertainment precinct by April 2024, placing Brisbane on the international stage."

Tower A, positioned on the Alice Street frontage of the site, is the taller tower at 79 levels The slender tower is broken down into three golden beaks which reduces the built form's scale from podium to rooftop.&nbsp;

"The tower design draws inspiration from the neighbouring Botanical Gardens with a finer grain branch like pattern that invites a sense of movement and physically draws the eye away from the centre of the built form emphasising the towers articulated footprint and corners," DBI say.

The neighbouring tower, Tower M, references the Margaret Street frontage of the large site.

The upcoming design phases will include a Public Art Strategy to identify strategically located and integrated works of art that enhance and activate the site.

"The precinct has been designed to create a symbiotic relationship between the architecture and landscape," DBI added.

"Brisbane’s sub-tropical environment is reflected in the dense planting of the podium, outdoor terraces, and elevated green spaces, creating an ideal refuge for residents and visitors. Lush vegetation, natural stone and textured materials provide a sense of calm and tranquility that transitions the site towards the City Botanic Gardens."

<img alt="Meriton" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ce546c9-b9c1-4a0a-9cb9-2e0e30b1b7f7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-10%20at%208.48.12%20am.png?VersionId=sU7NsvGPPCWz0V2CYLMyz4oO5HXMkUlm" />

Town Planning Report by Urban Planning Services said&nbsp;the proposed development will reinvigorate the subject site and its setting within the City Centre, delivering high-quality apartments in a well serviced centre of the City promising to improve the choice and availability of housing to meet the substantial demand presently being experienced in South-east Queensland.

The proposed redevelopment, providing new residential living opportunities in a location where residents will benefit from ease of access to all of the shops, services and attractions of the Brisbane CBD, including high frequency public transport services, and the greenspace and recreational opportunities afforded by the proximity to the City Botanical Gardens and river corridor, represents a logical and responsible approach to its renewal.

Overall, the proposed development will deliver a substantial investment in the rejuvenation of this centrally located site, securing efficient use of the site to provide much needed new housing opportunities, together with tourist accommodation and active commercial frontages, including a much sought pedestrian laneway through the site. The proposals will contribute positively to the economy and vitality of the City Centre.

In September&nbsp;<a href="/developers/meriton" target="">Meriton</a>&nbsp;was recognised as the busiest builder in Queensland for 2022-23, despite challenges in the construction sector.

The company has also been named Australia's top apartment builder in the HIA COLORBOND® Steel Housing Top 100 Report and has a 4.5 Gold Star iCIRT rating.

First look: Meriton's full plans for first Brisbane apartment development revealed

Veteran Brisbane developer <a href="/developers/stockwell">Stockwell</a> is continuing to expand its Fish Lane residential portfolio.

Their latest step in development surrounding the sought-after pocket toward the northern end of South Brisbane is a 30-level tower at <a href="/new-apartments/175-melbourne-street-south-brisbane">175 Melbourne Street</a>, South Brisbane, a 1,40 sqm site on the corner of Melbourne Street and Edmondstone Street. The site is next door to The Standard by ARIA Property Group, the developer of Fish Lane's buzzing retail and dining strip.

Stockwell, the family-run developer who has been developing in Brisbane since the early 1950s, is producing a heavily-targeted owner-occupier tower, with the majority of the 130 apartments four and five-bed. They're proposing just 27 two-beds and 25 three-beds, some 52 four-bedroom apartments, and 26 five-bedroom apartments.

The apartments will sit above a three-level parking podium and a ground level commercial tenancy, while resident amenity is provided in the form of a rooftop garden with a 17-metre swimming pool and spa, a function room with an outdoor terrace, a gym, yoga lawn and dog park. There will be 240 parking spaces and 164 bicycle spaces.

Stockwell will be delivering the project in two stages, the first being the basement, podium, and tower up to level 20, and the second stages level 21 to 30.

<img alt="Stockwell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6ca72ac-bdeb-4565-8310-517046e43164" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-05%20at%201.56.55%20pm.png?VersionId=rZ06E5KS5q41KGsSWy744by6KlYWmKf8" />

Architecture firm MODE said in their design statement that the&nbsp;design has been developed to provide a high-quality building with extensive landscaping and materiality to further enhance Melbourne Street as a sub-tropical boulevard.

"The front edge of the building is landscaped with large deep planters to soften this edge and contribute to the sub-tropical nature of Melbourne Street," the report read.

They said the design of the streetscape has many opportunities for the display of public art.

"The lobby and tenancy raised to the required flood level, gives the opportunity to introduce a prominent grand entry staircase and ramp integrated with extensive landscaping. Large glazed facades are featured on the entry lobby and tenancy to facilitate street activation and casual surveillance."

Mode said the&nbsp;existing seats, artwork and planting on Melbourne Street will be retained and create a dialogue with the new entry steps.

The podium façade is clad in a brick skin and brick fins in reference to the local context and identity of South Brisbane, a material&nbsp;featured along Melbourne St and Fish Ln on both historic and new buildings including Stockwell's under construction apartment developments Croft on Fish Lane and Cremorne on Fish Lane.

<img alt="Stockwell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3acab36d-6b9b-4d18-b8e5-a5d487b4a810" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-05%20at%202.02.46%20pm.png?VersionId=1YrEmL.LJXruJsK.Tt01PJupuKQnaDmF" />

Stockwell, led by managing director Mark Stockwell, has a number of projects in development across Brisbane.

Their most impressive is Stones Corner Village, where they're intending to redevelop their current retail and dining precinct just off Hanlon Park.

They've proposed a new mixed-used precinct at 405 Logan Road, which will incorporate 209 apartments across two towers, dubbed Logan and Cleveland, which will sit above 3,000 sqm of retail.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/first-look-stockwell-plot-stones-corner-village-redevelopment">First look: Stockwell plot Stones Corner Village redevelopment</a>

Stockwell has owned the 5,709 sqm site since 2006, which currently homes 20 retailers and is anchored by an Aldi. Over 500 new car parking spaces will be provided, and 252 bicycle spaces.

Stockwell also has a&nbsp;build to rent project in West End at 399 Montague Road, a few doors down from <a href="/news/qld/first-look-mcnab-file-for-montague-street-west-end-apartment-development">McNab''s recently filed plans for the redevelopment of the former Dixon's Tannery</a>.

Stockwell, led by managing director Mark Stockwell, has a number of projects in development across Brisbane

First look: Stockwell to pad out Fish Lane precinct with more apartments

The City of Melbourne has unanimously given the green light to a revised development application by MAB Corporation for their new <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a> precinct, NewQuay <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a>.

Adjacent to the <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a> Primary School, the signed off plans for the near one-hectare development site at 396-416 Docklands Drive, which&nbsp;currently serves as a commercial car park, include a&nbsp;mixed-use precinct with five-towers comprising commercial offices, a hotel and apartments, as well as abundant retail and hospitality at street level and a 700 sqm pocket park.

The planning application has undergone a number of amendments since its inception in 1999, with community engagement playing a crucial role in shaping the proposal.

Initially the project was approved for&nbsp;just over 11,000 sqm of commercial office space and no residential or hotel components, although the recent amendment reduced the office space by 3,150 sqm to make way for a 200-room hotel and 600 dwellings.

There will be 156 studios on offer, 232 one-bedroom apartments, 203 two-beds, and just nine three-bed apartments. The towers will rise from two 20-metre podiums which will feature the hotel and resident amenity such as swimming pools and barbecue spaces.

<img alt="MAB" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bac39fd2-ad1a-470b-805c-661102d28617" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-04%20at%2010.47.36%20am.png?VersionId=sn0K63jtj0PRV7M2ozwJj80k0.1iESMK" />

The City of Melbourne's planning team collaborated closely with MAB, resulting in positive design changes addressing previous concerns.&nbsp;

These changes include a 10-metre separation between towers, the removal of one tower, a reduction in maximum built-form height, revised building envelopes, a modified public park layout, and additional design principles.

Designed by ARM Architecture with Rush Wright Associates, the precinct incorporates retail and dining options within the podiums, office floor space, podium car parks, and a new 11 to 13-metre-wide pedestrian laneway connecting the school to the tram depot and New Quay Central Park.&nbsp;

<img alt="Docklands" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4817edb8-8c38-456f-9315-1ff8a27e469b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-04%20at%2010.41.41%20am.png?VersionId=7MJHIhVSIsusIlyGBlEN8QNW9xlqWjfF" />

The west podium comprises three residential towers, while the east contains two, carefully considering mirroring the existing streetscape context and character.

The development is expected to deliver between 500 and 600 residential dwellings and 20,000 sqm of commercial spaces, including the possibility of a hotel.

A key feature of the project is a 700 sqm public park at the corner of Little Docklands Drive and St Mangos Lane, positioned adjacent to Docklands Primary School.&nbsp;

<img alt="Newquay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6d04f474-3859-43ee-bb94-b13bc62e06b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-04%20at%2010.41.58%20am.png?VersionId=py897uW3Bc65YTtEs37vx0L76Lg6w1.C" />

The pocket park, a later addition to the application, will feature seating areas, a children's play zone, a café, ramp and stair access, sandstone boulders, and bike ramp facilities.&nbsp;

The project will unfold in four stages, with the delivery of the new park scheduled for the initial phase.

The plans were endorsed by City of Melbourne councillors, with Deputy Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece praising the application and highlighting the positive impact of the pocket park on the community.&nbsp;

There will be 390 car spaces provided across the development, and 700 bicycle spaces.

The planning application has undergone a number of amendments since its inception in 1999, with community engagement playing a crucial role in shaping the proposal

MAB to bring 600 apartments to Docklands after City of Melbourne green light NewQuay Docklands

SKF Development has timed the release of their Sceniq Bilambil Heights development on the Tweed Coast perfectly, at a&nbsp;time when demand for residential land on both sides of the Queensland border is at a record high.

The $59 million subdivision planned for a 15.8-hectare site bounded by Walmsleys Road and Stott Street will deliver 100 large residential homesites with an average size of 1,200 sqm into a severely undersupplied market, with a masterplan that also incorporates a community park.

SKF Development has released the first stage of the project, comprising 30 homesites, many with ocean views, exclusively by invitation to locals who had previously registered their interest, with a full launch to the wider property market planned in the new year.

“We are over the moon with the response so far to Sceniq Bilambil Heights, which has been extremely well received by locals,” said Eric Zhao, Director of SKF Development.

“Our plans for this unique, elevated site have struck a chord with buyers who have been pleasantly surprised by the comparative affordability of the residential homesites we are presenting to the market."

<img alt="Scenic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec87820d-09e3-4460-91af-20a27984f18b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-21%20at%206.58.26%20pm.png?VersionId=Rp3n8YpGcaW83l.HAld1Oto0XX_Qm1E6" />

The project sales team has been swamped with enquiries for the premium residential homesites ahead of the official launch, saying it received 350 preliminary expressions of interest within a week of announcing its plans, with 250 of those received on the first day alone.

Several homesites in the first release have already been secured by eager buyers, where land is priced from $485,000. The average sales have been $545,000.

The residential community has been designed to enhance the outdoor lifestyle through a network of accessible walking paths which intersect at Sceniq Park, so all residents can enjoy an active and connected lifestyle.

Sceniq Bilambil Heights is located within easy reach of the Terranora Broadwater and Terranora Creek, including the extensive Scenic to Peninsular Drive Cycleway that offers more than 3km of waterside pathways.

The new community will be just 10 minutes’ drive to Coolangatta Beach, and the heart of the southern Gold Coast’s retail and restaurant scene, with the Gold Coast Airport also close to hand just 10 minutes away and the M1 Motorway just six minutes’ drive, providing easy and direct access to a range of employment and lifestyle options.

The release of residential homesites at Sceniq Bilambil Heights comes amid a massive shortfall in new residential housing developments in the Tweed Shire and neighbouring Gold Coast City.

According to the latest RPM research, of the 7,555 new residents who moved to the Tweed Shire in the most recent 12-month period, 1,691 people (22 per cent) were relocating from the Gold Coast.

The analysis also found the population of the greater Bilambil and Bilambil Heights area is expected to grow 80 per cent to more than 7,000 by 2041. To accommodate this growth, a further 1,299 new dwellings are required to be built, or 72 new homes a year.

Managing Director of RPM Queensland, Clinton Trezise, says migration trends mean Gold Coasters are increasingly spilling over the border into northern New South Wales after being priced out of the Gold Coast property market or due to a lack of options.

“Gold Coast has long been a beacon of coastal living but demand due to population growth has certainly outpaced the supply,” said Trezise.

“It's been a one-way street for so long, with southerners heading north to the sunny Gold Coast. Yet, as the demand and supply imbalance is becoming unsustainable, Gold Coasters are now looking to options close to the border in their search for new homes.”

The new $724 million 430-bed Tweed Valley Hospital development nearing completion at Cudgen is set to open in early 2024 with the facility primed to become a significant new employment base for the region, while adding much needed infrastructure to cater for a growing population.

&nbsp;

Several homesites in the first release have already been secured by eager buyers, where land is priced from $485,000

SKF Development launch Sceniq Bilambil Heights on the Tweed Coast

Local Brisbane developer Silverstone Developments has filed plans for a shoptop apartment development in <a href="/new-apartments/ascot-qld-4007">Ascot</a>.

The plans for The Windermere, designed by PDT Architects at&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/the-windermere-ascot-77-racecourse-road-ascot">77 Racecourse Road</a>, a few streets back from Kingsford Smith Drive and Bretts Wharf Ferry Terminal, are for 30 apartments above seven retail tenancies.

The building will be crowned with a rooftop lawn, infinity edge swimming pool and spa, communal function room, a gym with a sauna, and a number of seating areas and barbecue spaces.

<img alt="Racecourse" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad404215-8cc6-4718-8e6d-640172b64aa3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-03%20at%209.44.40%20am.png?VersionId=H2Akhmysscw5HUSbkKTeFSaHCmvyXVRx" />

PDT Architects said in their proposal that the aim of the design was to reflect the traditional and green nature of the suburb, which has been retained due to the nearby Eagle Farm Racecourse.

"[The] Eagle Farm Racecourse in 1863 drove a lot of further development and attention in the area over time, leading to increased stables within the suburb and thus larger properties remaining in the area over time. This provided the foundations for a traditional and green nature in the suburb.

"The development strives to pay homage to this character through a raw material palette with extensive landscaping to act as a ‘feature’ piece."

<img alt="77 Eagle Farm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3c24bf68-1342-49c0-92e6-def6c881f076" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-03%20at%209.44.04%20am.png?VersionId=mMYOYV0Q6Q3hOyIOeRbvlw3dNKJk6JRq" />

They said while the proposal drives to activate further Racecourse Road by harnessing pedestrian human scale at entries, heavily landscaped building mass with simplistic but intentional materiality.

"The rigid form promotes the eye to focus on the draping greenery and regular pattern forms through detailed balustrade treatments. The colour scheme aims to embrace natural colours whilst contrasting bold black trim and dark treatments to the light wells &amp; plant screening.

"The architectural approach is holistic, to provide a mass that utilises simple raw materials that allows prominent and extensive landscaping to become the feature of the site, this pays respect to the green and traditional character of Ascot whilst providing a striking and modern design presence to the street. It provides new high quality spaces for retail users and a striking destination to call home for residential users that situates itself well into the street and suburbs identity."

<img alt="77 Racecourse" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="39fff363-db7e-4086-a36c-469aa3929921" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-01-03%20at%209.44.14%20am.png?VersionId=.R9Rms2x6aKq5LP9EPu3Gvo.TTLZFdFP" />

PDT added that while the 3,162 sqm site is in close proximity to the city it still maintains a strong suburban and homely character.

Silverstone is seeking to target the owner-occupier with the large apartments. There are just three two-bedroom units and 27 three-bedroom apartments. Each apartment features its own balcony, with an average balcony size just under 40 sqm.

Urban Strategies noted in their Town Planning Report that the proposal is considered to be in line with the zoning of the site and the relevant outcomes sought under the Racecourse Precinct Neighbourhood Plan.

"The proposed development is anticipated to provide uses which will service the immediate local catchment and activate the street," the report read.

"The proposal is of a high quality design and revitalises an underutilised site. The proposal is designed to remain of a human scale and to reinforce the precinct’s identity and sense of place."

&nbsp;

The Racecourse Road site currently comprises a commercial building with a grocery and convenience store, pharmacist, and liquor store, while the eastern part of the site is currently an open air car park.

It's a return to residential for Silverstone, who also work in the commercial space. They have recently completed the Spring Hill Day Hospital among a number of other commercial projects. They were prominent in the residential development space back in 2015 and 2016, completing a number of projects in Kangaroo Point, Bulimba and Milton.

&nbsp;

Silverstone file shoptop apartment plans for The Windermere Ascot

Property developer and investor Cbus Property has acquired a residential development site which it hopes to bring to the market in 2024.

They snapped up 3,036 sqm at&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/four-three-seven-by-cbus-property-437-st-kilda-road-melbourne-vic-3000">437 St Kilda Road</a>, in Melbourne's St Kilda Road precinct, Cbus Property's&nbsp;inaugural venture into the St Kilda Road area.

They secured the site from Melbourne-based investment company GLG, who will maintain a minor ownership stake in the project which has a forecasted end value of $350 million.

The site is currently obtaining development approval from the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), featuring a design crafted by the renowned architecture firm Bates Smart.&nbsp;

The proposed development envisions 83 apartments spread across 17 levels.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/gurner-to-create-the-next-st-moritz-at-newly-acquired-st-kilda-road-melbourne-site">Gurner to create "the next St Moritz" at newly acquired St Kilda Road, Melbourne site</a>

Cbus Property's CEO, Adrian Pozzo, expressed confidence that the <a href="/new-apartments/four-three-seven-by-cbus-property-437-st-kilda-road-melbourne-vic-3000">437 St Kilda Road</a> project will uphold the high standards in their recently completed 17 Spring St development in Melbourne's CBD.&nbsp;

Pozzo aims to set a new benchmark in response to the market's demand for quality residential apartments.

Describing the site as one of Melbourne's premier undeveloped residential opportunities, Pozzo highlighted its prime location, offering views across Fawkner Park and proximity to the CBD, Toorak Road, South Yarra, and Albert Park.&nbsp;

“We consider this site to be one of the best undeveloped residential opportunities in Melbourne due to its premium address, offering views across Fawkner Park, and its proximity to the amenities of the CBD, Toorak Road, South Yarra and Albert Park," Pozzo said.

“In recognising the prime location of the site in the heart of the St Kilda Road precinct, we seized the opportunity to deliver another industry-leading residential tower for Melbourne.”

The development will include various residential amenities such as an indoor pool, gym, residents' lounge, and private dining room.&nbsp;

The project represents Cbus Property's fourth collaboration with Bates Smart, following ventures like Classic East Melbourne, 35 Spring St, and 17 Spring St.

With <a href="/new-apartments/four-three-seven-by-cbus-property-437-st-kilda-road-melbourne-vic-3000">437 St Kilda Road</a>, Cbus Property continues its significant presence in the Melbourne property market, marking its 24th development venture in the greater Melbourne area.&nbsp;

The company's broader development pipeline across Australia totals $4.5 billion, covering residential and commercial projects in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth.&nbsp;

Aligning with Cbus Property's commitment to environmentally sustainable development, the project aims to deliver residences with a net zero carbon footprint, targeting a 5-star Green Star Buildings rating.

Anticipated to launch its sales campaign in mid-2024, 437 St Kilda Road construction is scheduled to commence in 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143359]

The project represents Cbus Property's fourth collaboration with Bates Smart, following ventures like Classic East Melbourne, 35 Spring St, and 17 Spring St

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