A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Joel Robinson

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

Australia Post is one of the country’s most trusted institutions, powering one of the largest delivery networks in Australia. As online shopping continues to scale, Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online.

That scale of eCommerce activity has fundamentally changed expectations around how and when parcels arrive, and what happens when someone isn't home.

<h3>Problem solved with Parcel Lockers</h3>

The traditional alternatives to home delivery are far from ideal. Buildings can rely on reception teams to manage deliveries, which introduces ongoing staffing costs and liability concerns. Parcels can be left in common areas, which creates security and aesthetic issues. Or residents are redirected to nearby Post Offices for collection, which shifts the inconvenience rather than solving it.

<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/dVG5ChLHf7E?si=D9hQRGCBuzlSQBqK" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The data behind that frustration is significant. Nationally, around 9 per cent of deliveries are carded, meaning the recipient was not home and must collect the parcel from a Post Office. That figure reflects the national average reported between November 2025 and January 2026. In Melbourne, that figure rises to 20 per cent. In high-density living, it climbs again to 28 per cent. In other words, more than one in four deliveries in Melbourne apartment buildings results in a failed first attempt.

<h3>How Parcel Lockers work</h3>

The mechanics are simple. When a parcel arrives, the resident receives a notification either through the Australia Post app or via SMS. They scan a QR code, use their one-time PIN and the compartment opens. The parcel is secure, accessible and removed from the lobby floor.

Located in thoughtfully chosen, easily accessible areas, including external building interfaces, mixed-use precincts or shared communal zones, Parcel Lockers enhance convenience without requiring internal building access or additional operational oversight.

<h3>The scale of the network</h3>

This expansion represents Australia Post's largest investment in parcel infrastructure to date, building on momentum that began in 2011 when the first 24 Parcel Locker sites were introduced.

Today the Australia Post Parcel Locker network spans over 1,400 locations and more than 105,000 individual compartments, with major investment already underway to significantly expand the network further.

<h3>What it means for developers and building operators</h3>

A Parcel Locker bank is free to install and free for residents to use. That removes one of the primary barriers to adoption and shifts the conversation from cost to integration.

Australia Post's preference is to engage with developers during the design phase. That allows Parcel Lockers to be located in a considered, publicly accessible space that works for residents and the broader community. Retrofit is possible, and existing buildings can be assessed, but the strongest results occur when Parcel Lockers are treated as part of the core services plan rather than a bolt-on solution.

While the iconic Australia Post red is widely recognised, Parcel Lockers can also be delivered in more muted palettes such as beige or green to align with architectural intent.

For developers, they offer a tech-forward amenity that meets modern expectations, a reduction in courier congestion and building-management load supporting lower emissions and better ESG outcomes, and a meaningful marketability advantage in high-density, eCommerce-active areas, all at no cost for installation and maintenance, with Australia Post funding the program aside from power access.

<h3>Who's using them</h3>

Generational shopping behaviours show strong, sustained growth across all cohorts. Millennials (27–43) led online spend in 2024, contributing nearly $25 billion. Baby Boomers (60–78) increased their online spend by 17.6 per cent, becoming the fastest-growing adopters. Gen Z (13–26) and Gen X (44–59) continue to lean on delivery services as part of their everyday shopping habits.

Internationally, uptake is even more pronounced. Overseas markets are seeing rapid adoption by both developers and consumers, positioning Parcel Lockers as standard infrastructure in many new residential projects. For Melbourne's development community, this signals a shift in baseline expectations. Just as secure bike storage and dedicated parcel rooms have become more common, integrated Parcel Locker networks may soon be viewed as part of the essential service mix.

<h3>The bigger picture</h3>

Parcel Lockers aren't just a logistics fix. Developers invest heavily in lobby design, materials, lighting and landscaping to shape first impressions. Yet a stack of unattended parcels can undo that effort in an instant. Embedding parcel infrastructure early allows projects to respond to how people actually live today, supporting resident satisfaction, reducing operational strain and aligning with broader community and ESG outcomes.

As Belinda Quinn, Senior Transaction Manager – Retail &amp; Out of Home at Australia Post, puts it, residents increasingly expect delivery solutions that align with real life, are flexible, secure and available whenever they need them.

How Australia Post is solving the parcel problem for apartment living

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On last night’s episode of The Block Glasshouse it was time for the contestants’ “jury” vote to be revealed on the third bedroom, hallway and study for each apartment with a $5,000 prize up for grabs.
However, this time they were casting their votes before knowing who the judges would prize $10,000 to. This forced the contestants to vote strategically, as each couple looked to vote for someone they thought wouldn’t win the judges’ vote.
While this ensured plenty of controversy for the latest episode, what was truly revealing was the gap in opinion between the judges and the contestants as they viewed the apartments without previously hearing other opinions.
Overall, it was Darren and Dee's apartment five that won another $5,000 – with the jury and the judges both independently deciding it was the best of the week.
While debate is raging over the voting tactics of the contestants, it’s an indication how buyers might actually respond to the apartments if they went onto the market outside of The Block.
While the judges were clear in what they did and didn’t like, it was clear that the right balance between functionality and design was crucial.
The episode re-iterated the last <a href="/expert-insights/building/the-block-glasshouse-functionality-crucial-as-study-and-guest-bedroom-revealed">five lessons lessons learnt form last night's episode</a>.
Here are the divergent thoughts on the five apartments:
<ul>
<li>Apartment One - Michael and Carline</li>
</ul>
While the light fitting was loved by the judges, it received mixed reviews from the other contestants.
However, the day bed and desk were universally liked- even while the impractically low chair was noted by most.
The room was said to be lacking a bit of warmth and softness.
In the bedroom, the exposed brickwork with feature lightning was called a standout by most of the couples, and they were particularly impressed with the clever styling.
However, it was called a bit ‘safe’.
OVERALL:  Splashy, large wow-factor items will divide a crowd. However, subtle exposed brick is a largely liked factor. The importance of making something practical, as well as stylish, cannot be understated.
<ul>
<li>Apartment Two – Chris and Jenna</li>
</ul>
While the judges were pretty unhappy with the room and the lack of the study, the jury was not as displeased.
The large number of plants and the “crude” look that the judges pointed out didn’t seem to be in the jury’s minds.
The wall that called the judges ‘squeezed’ but provided a walk in wardrobe was actually well liked by the other couples, who liked that there was a separate space.
They didn’t do a study and the attic saw the judges called it just a storage room. It divided the contestants, however they weren’t as negative about the change.
OVERALL: Removing a study was not a good decision to have been made, but the smaller bedroom space to bring in a walk-in wardrobe might not have been as devastating as the judges believed.
Article continue son the next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<ul>
<li>Apartment Three – Karstan and Max</li>
</ul>
The concrete floors were loved by the jury and the judges, even while the judges thought it felt cold overall.
The large space was universally described as massive and the comment that it appeared like a hotel was most apt. However, the couples were impressed with the modern shiny laminate desk and shelves, while it split the judges who thought it was somewhat dated.
The main diversion of opinion came about from the large artwork in the bedroom, that the last episode suggested should have gone into the study. Brightened up with smart wall lighting options, some thought it was too large while others loved it.
However, the room did need something “added” – with suggestions of fabric panelling on the wall.
OVERALL: Again, big wow-factor items will divide, however bareness is always noticed and careful attention needs to be given to large areas. Temperature, coldness and the feeling of comfort should be carefully attended to.
<ul>
<li>Apartment Four – Shannon and Simon</li>
</ul>
The compact study area was liked by both the judges and the jury, and the skylight was also agreed upon as the stand out feature.
The clever use of spaces and levels with the ceiling, and the floating roof, left a huge impression on the jury.
Cosy, cute nook, and they liked the skylight – widely liked and called a stand out feature by both the judges and the jury.
The velvet tangerine bedspread left some divided, but overall the “vibe” of the room had most converted.
OVERALL: Bright colours that vary from neutral can be daring, but can work well with enough thought. It’s worthwhile considering different levels, skylights. The general ‘feel’ of a room can often be as important as individual features.
<ul>
<li>Apartment Five – Darren and Dee</li>
</ul>
Because of the choice of artwork, the jury loving this apartment before they’d even stepped into it. The judge’s winning pick from last week,  dubbed “modern colonial”, it seemed as though all the couples loved this the most as well.
The herringbone floor was loved, and the use of space with the see-through back of the desk to the yet-to-be-built stairs seen as standouts by the jury.
The guest bedroom was also widely liked as a little oasis and the canopy, while called a ‘mosquito net’ at one point, was also a hit.
Styling received mixed reviews, with the number of pillows and a decorative key prompting debate.
OVERALL: Styling can divide, but layered and neutral tones with a high attention to comfort is often worthwhile. Unique features and forethought into other areas and how it will play in will put you in a much better position.
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

The Block Glasshouse: Contestants' opinions reveal where styling truly works

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Finishmyhome.com.au, an unregistered home renovation company, and directors Paul Edward Ovens and Allesandro Giuseppe Iovene, were successfully prosecuted by the Building Commissioner over registration and contractual offences. They were ordered to pay $41,200 of fines and costs.
The proceedings were finalised in the Perth Magistrates Court earlier this month. Both directors plead guilty to five charges about renovating a Roleystone property between May and August 2011 and a Maylands home between September 2012 and April 2013. The work totalled $296,000.
They did not have the necessary registration or home indemnity insurance.
Building Commissioner Peter Gow said that the actions were plain irresponsible.
“For instance, the absence of home indemnity insurance puts the consumer at significant risk of financial loss if the builder cannot complete the building work or meet a valid claim for faulty or unsatisfactory building work because of death, disappearance or insolvency,” he said.
“Consumers should protect themselves by checking their building service provider holds the required registration or licence before engaging them to carry out work.”
Investors can check the licensing of their builder <a href="https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/buildingcommission" target="_blank">via an online database</a>.
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Unregistered Perth home renovation company and directors ordered to pay $41,200

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Project manager Michelle Hosking last week pleaded guilty to 12 charges relating to two renovations in Croydon North that resulted in a cost blow out of more than $120,000.
Hosking was fined $15,000 in Ringwood Magistrates’ Court after managing the renovations without the required contracts, insurance, registration or permits, according to the Herald Sun. She was also ordered to pay costs.
The Victorian Building Authority’s Cheryl Lewis said that Hosking had drafted three page contracts that failed to meet requirements. She had previously only undertaken commercial office fit outs.
The Herald Sun <a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/woman-behind-cost-blowout-of-120000-on-croydon-north-renovation-convicted-and-fined/story-fngnvlxu-1227025947257" target="_blank">reports</a> that Lewis told the court the home owners paid $124,000 more than the contract price for the renovations and that cost blow outs had occurred.
It was also reported that Hosking took deposits above the maximum allowed 5%.
The work on both houses was completed.
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Project manager fined after $120,000 renovation cost blow out

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Last night’s The Block Glasshouse saw the contestants reveal their study, hallway and guest bedroom.
It turned out that while style is crucial, it cannot be to the detriment of functionality, or vice versa.
Stress was high as cabinetry was delayed for a number of the couples and a lack of sleep and poor planning hindered many.
The week three winners turned out to be Darren and Dee (bedroom pictured above, courtesy of Channel 9).
Here are the judges’ thoughts on the rooms presented, and the five lessons Property Observer thinks that every budding renovator should keep in mind.
<ul>
<li>Michael and Carline</li>
</ul>
The room had the guests say ‘wow’ as they walked in, with a strong lighting feature and nice design elements.
On first walk around, it looked as though it was going to be a largely position situation. The large desk, that could easily fit two people, was pointed out as a great functional positive, as was the access to natural light, and the brass detailing was considered ‘on trend’ for both the bedroom and the study.
The day bed was also well received for both its colouring and design, and functionality again with plenty of space underneath for storage.  
However, when the judges tried out the desk chair it turned out to be far too low to be practical – eliciting some humour about actually working in the space. Not a huge positive for the room.
They also liked the use of the colour black – while it can enclose a room, and should be used carefully, they were impressed with Michael and Carline’s use of the colour.
Overall, the modern rooms were considered well-suited to the geography of the area sharing that urban environment style that buyers would be a fan of.
<ul>
<li>Chris and Jenna</li>
</ul>
The critque of Chris and Jenna’s space wasn’t hugely positive. They’d skipped the study, which was a huge “no no” in the judges’ eyes who noted that when buyers will be comparing the five properties for sale at one time they would consider the lack of a study a detriment.
Instead, they’d presented an attic, which was called “just storage”.
In the bedroom itself, they were also largely unimpressed. With nine plants, and a potting bench at the end of the bed, the inclusions were noted as “inappropriate for the room” and more suited to a gardening centre. Exposed screws at eye level on the shelving was also considered as a bad decision. They noted that the backdrop had made the expensive exposed timber look cheap.
The judges said that the wall, which was in the middle of the room, made a large space feel compressed.
The one positive, a nice chair, was hidden away, while the walk in wardrobe was noted as good but the mirror was in a strange position.
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<ul>
<li>Karstan and Max</li>
</ul>
The main positive in their study, hallway and room was the choice to have polished concrete throughout, which was an unusual decision enjoyed by the judges. Karstan and Max hoped it might help sway the buyers on the selling end.
While a lot of debate went on between Karstan and Max over choosing a clock or an artwork, instead electing for a clock that they thought acted as a piece of art, the judges wanted to see something bolder in this space for more impact. The artwork in the bedroom was widely liked.
Heading for the “less is more” vibe, it appears they may have headed too far and left it feeling too spacious and unfinished, rather than showing a high end grand look.
The study area, with white laminate on the desk and shelving, left the judges somewhat divided. They all considered it functional, but debated whether it didn’t seem particularly contemporary.
Other than the artwork, the rest of the bedroom was also said to leave them cold. While they had left a blank canvas for prospective buyers, they suggested that perhaps it had been left a little too blank.
Instead, the ceiling feature that was one of the room’s selling points should have been shown off with a nice light feature, rather than bringing everything to floor level.
Overall, the judges felt the flesh on the bones was missing and could do with some revisiting before showing it to buyers down the track, although noted it was all easily fixable.
<ul>
<li>Shannon and Simon</li>
</ul>
Structural issues left Shannon and Simon appearing worse off earlier in the piece, with the beams and ceiling being obstacles. Late deliveries also plagued them when it came to cabinetry.
However, they shone to the judges with their skylight. Unlike Karstan and Max they had managed to lift their eyes to the roof to see something special, and they considered it a very clever choice adding some wow factor in the stairwell.
The sizing felt cosy but not claustrophobic. They separated off a space that was functional, but had style.
The guest bedroom include a burnt orange velvet through, a risky choice that the judges actually liked – even paired with the leopard print towels.
Small decisions added up into a successful run with the judges with attention to detail being noted – for instance, the recess for the curtains and other smaller architectural decisions.
The judges noted that the storage amount was perfect, simple and discreet.
<ul>
<li>Darren and Dee</li>
</ul>
With an extra $5,000 to work with, big things were expected from Darren and Dee and they didn’t disappoint.
Dee regularly discussed how much she wanted “drama” in the room. At first, this sounded worrying, however her decisions worked out well as she looked to move the eyes away from a room with no exceptional features and, in her words, “just weird shaped”.
A smart decision led the couple to using parquetry floors throughout the apartment, which were much admired by the judges.
They had a smaller space than the other couples for the study, however they managed to provide a high-end look and a space that was still usable, which the judges were happy with.
There was plenty of impact, however it still managed to remain pulled back.
In the bedroom, a canopy bed and some clever styling was said to be attractive and would likely bring in buyers from the expensive neighbouring suburbs.
Unfortunately, the slider door track and gap were still visible and should have been hidden in the bulkhead with the small finishes needing some work. Darren and Dee noted that they had ordered some.
Overall, it was said that they’d easily entice buyers to feel like this could be their home and that they were set to deliver for a good auction.
Five lessons for every renovator from the Block on the next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Here are the five lessons for every renovator to takeaway from this episode of The Block
<ul>
<li>Functional and stylish – don’t forget both elements</li>
</ul>
There’s no point making something beautiful if it can’t be used in the way intended. Renovators should consider how a room is used as well as how it looks.
Storage, access and use are just as crucial as giving something a contemporary, high end and luxury look.
<ul>
<li>Be firm with your suppliers</li>
</ul>
Many couples were faced great difficulty trying to get the cabinetry from their suppliers, leaving some installing it 45 minutes before completion time.
Some strict words did assist with speeding up the process. It’s crucial to let your suppliers know your expectations. Leave plenty of time as a buffer for any delays.
<ul>
<li>Budget</li>
</ul>
While this time round the majority of the couples did well with their budgeting, Carline managed to max out their credit card earlier on in the piece by overspending on pricey fabric and making other extravagant purchases.
Budget ahead of time, know where the bang for your buck items are. Think smartly about your spending choices. Some DIY furniture saved Michael and Carline in the end, using timber that was on site, however it could have worked out far worse.
<ul>
<li>Find a focal point</li>
</ul>
The couples that did the best knew to focus on a “wow” factor, and focus the room around that point. Those that missed out dressed either all of their room too much (such as Chris and Jenna with too many plants) or not enough.
Think of the point of difference – a clever skylight, or a canopy bed – and enhance this with your styling.
<ul>
<li>Teamwork</li>
</ul>
Communication and strong team work are crucial when you’re suffering from lack of sleep, structural issues and a short time period. Many couples were unable to make decisions between them, or to trust each other to make choices. It’s crucial to stay in touch, to know whose is responsible for which task and to choose who will do what.
A level headed approach also helps, with Shannon and Simon having a couple of issues with trusting each other but in the end managing to keep positive and good humoured despite all the problems.
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The Block Glasshouse: Functionality crucial as study and guest bedroom revealed

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The Block Glasshouse marketing has begun with Buxton's inviting private clients to an early September preview.
The High Street apartment is being offered <a href="/expert-insights/building/karl-gillon-takes-on-his-third-televised-the-block-sales-campaign">through veteran The Block agent Karl Gillon</a>.
<img src="/images/2014/08/15/block%20aug%2015%20one.jpg" alt="">
No public marketing has commenced for the auctions that appear scheduled for October auction.
Nor have $2 million plus price hopes been confirmed.
Buxton estate agent Karl Gillon is set to take on his third sales televised Block auction marketing campaign in the latest The Block Glasshouse series.
He will be marketing the sale of contestants Maxine and Karstan’s Prahan apartment at 3/121-127 High Street.
He's previously auctioned Brad and Dale’s property on last year’s Fans Vs Faves series in the O'Grady Street, Albert Park warehouse.
<a href="/news/at-506-000-above-reserve-brad-and-laras-1-62-million-south-melbourne-sale-secures-the-block-2012-prize-result">He also sold contestants Brad and Lara’s property in 2012</a>, achieving a winning price of $1.62 million in the South Melbourne terraces series.
In recent series contestants have taken to include their estate agent in the design planning stages to ensure the apartment matches the locality demographics.
Estate agent Anton Wongtrakun of Dingle Partners is also returning. Last year he handled twins Alisa and Lysandra’s Albert Park sale.
This time it is Chris and Jenna’s apartment at number 2.
The agent newbies are Matt White of Ray White Port Phillip selling Michael and Carlene’s property at number 3 and Andrew McCann of Jellis Craig Bennison Mackinnon with Simon and Shannon’s apartment at number 4.
The AFL premiership player Darren Jolly and his wife Deanne have gone with Biggin &amp; Scott Richmond.
The High Street Block auctions are likely to take place in October.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The Block Glasshouse marketing begins in Prahran

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Last night, the City of Greater Geelong voted to remove a covenant on a contentious block of land.
The Geelong West Bowling Club had been looking to remove a covenant over an area of land that previously was to be used solely for the purpose of bowls.
In 1986, 1,728 square metres of land at 12 Bowlers Avenue, Geelong West had been sold to the Geelong West Bowls Club for $48,000 and had applied the covenant at that time restricting its use as a bowling green. The amount they paid was agreed upon by Council to be at or close to market value and had previously been used as a table tennis site.
The initial valuation and associated documents were unable to be found, so the council struggled to ascertain whether they had purchased it for a discount. However, they did note that due to a later valuation they believed they paid close to full market value.
The Club looks to move their site and want to maximise the revenue from the sale of the land for this purpose. The value would be greatly enhanced without the covenant, which restricted it to a bowling green and occasional car parking.
The council approved the removal of the covenant (M262445Q).
Attending the council meeting, the Geelong Advertiser tweeted the following:
<img src="/images/2014/08/13/geelong%20aug%2013%20one.png" alt="">
Council records note that the Club and the Drumcondra Bowling Club have entered into an agreement with Links Investco No 1 Pty Ltd to acquire land and build new clubrooms and greens at the former Geelong Golf Club site. The sale of the existing land is to support the move and club’s consolidation at the new location on Ballarat Road.
“In deciding to agree to the removal of the covenant, the Council is entitled to consider whether at the time of sale of the land to the Club, the covenant had a restrictive effect on the price at which the land transferred,” council meeting minutes note.
The land is currently zoned Residential 1, and is proposed to be included in a Residential Growth Zone 2 under a Greater Geelong Planning Scheme amendment.
“Once the covenant is removed the owner of the land is free to use and develop the land subject to the provisions of the Planning Scheme and subsequent planning permit,” the minutes confirm.
<img src="/images/2014/08/13/geelong%20aug%2013%20two.png" alt="">
Source: City of Greater Geelong
The entire site is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-vic-geelong+west-200945771" target="_blank">currently being marketed through Gartland Real Estate, who are calling it a unique development/subdivisional opportunity</a>.
“The former Geelong West Bowls Club is located only 85 metres to Pakington Street and adjoining the Geelong west public park this is a one of a kind development opportunity,” the listing reads.
“Set within moments to the vibrant Cafe and restaurant precinct, offering direct access to major arterials and public transport, this location offers a multitude of opportunities to the buyer. Surrounded by residential homes in one of Geelong strongest neighbourhoods this is the perfect mix of location and opportunity.”
It is open for expressions of interest.
The Geelong Advertiser had previously indicated that locals fear the site would become a high-density housing block if this took place and noted that Gartland had estimated a sale price of up to $10 million for the combined Geelong West and Drummondra clubs’ locations.
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Geelong council removes covenant on bowls club land, paving way for possible development

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Planning policy changes have allowed 2,500 Western Sydney home sites to be instantly brought online, according to Minister for Planning Pru Goward.
Yesterday, Property Observer wrote that <a href="/expert-insights/building/numerous-sydney-areas-rezoned-to-allow-for-higher-density-developments">multi-storey residential towers are expected to be built in many parts of Sydney as numerous areas undergo a rezoning</a>. Community pushback to development applications are likely.
The changes to the Growth Centres State Environmental Planning Policy are expected to bring greater diversity, affordability and meet the needs of the growing population in the area, said Goward.
“The changes mean a Western Sydney home buyer will have more choice of home type, and may also save up to 10% on the cost of their new home,” she said.
“The NSW government has accelerated the release of land to keep up with demand, and now we are providing more choices and allowing for more affordable options for Western Sydney families.”
The amendment allows smaller lot sizes, and medium density builds, that Goward believes will keep house and land packages under $400,000.
Growth Centres will now face the same planning controls, as well as a faster subdivision and home building approval process.
The changes will permit townhouse and villa-style housing, detached homes on a number of lot sizes, detached dwellings on small lots in medium density zones and studio dwellings to be strata subdivided from the main house so they can be sold as a separate dwelling.
Standardised minimum lot sizes, new approval pathways, standards for subdivision and house design and more opportunities to use the 10 day approval process for new homes on smaller lots have also been introduced.
“New suburbs in Western Sydney are expected to be home to half a million people over the next 25 years so it’s crucial for us to get the planning right now,” Goward said.
“This good future planning is supported by the NSW government’s record investment in transport infrastructure servicing these areas through the North West and South West Rail Links and work to complete Sydney’s motorway network.”  
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Planning changes instantly unlocks 2,500 Western Sydney homes

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Last night, Australia was treated to the first round of bathroom reveals on The Block Glasshouse.
In one of the hardest tasks of the series (as host Scott Cam likes to remind us), each team was given one week to create the main bathroom of their office conversion apartment.
The week saw yet more delays, tradies in tears, and a particularly unsavory furniture upcycling challenge featuring a taxidermied deer head (the furniture world's Martin Margielas, our blockheads are not).
But it seems the hard work was worth it in the end, with the judges marveling at the bathrooms this season's  contestants managed to deliver.
Despite being cursed with a severed, taxidermied, hollowed out and illuminated deer head courtesy of Shannon and Simon, Chris and Jenna managed to wash the negativity away with their bathroom offering (pictured above, courtesy of Channel 9).
The Campbelltown couple, characterised as the "newbies" of The Block, earned a perfect score of 30 from judges Neale Whitaker (soon to join Vogue Living as editor-in-chief), Selling Houses Australia's Shaynna Blaze and interior designer Darren Palmer.
Some major tiling miscalculations saw the couple bring in a two metre wide mirror to cover up their error - a blessing in disguise, creating the illusion of an expansive space.
Continuing the theme set with the exposed beams in their guest bedroom, the team ran a metal pole (with a pipe tucked inside) across the entire length of their bathroom, which suspended their shower head (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/block2.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9. The second highest score of the night went to Darren and Deanne, whose bathroom was particularly popular with Darren (judge, not Jolly), pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/blockd.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
Shaynna Blaze noted that their bathroom had a "provincial feel" translated to an urban setting, while Neale Whittaker said the bathroom held its own against some of the best bathrooms he's seen in his career as a magazine editor. The couple were awarded 28 points out of 30.
Their bathroom featured a medley of materials - with a plain plastered wall, a marble vanity, patterned floor tiles, a paneled wall and a wall covered with large white tiles. Maxine and Karstan redeemed themselves after failing to complete a room last week, scoring 26 points for their glossy grey bathroom, pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/blockmax.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
Theirs was a particularly big space and Shaynna appreciated their extensive storage, which allowed access to the bedroom linen closet through the wall. However, the couple lost points for the lack of underfloor heating, which was seen in many of the other bathrooms.
Queensland couple Michael and Carlene coped with their pokey bathroom by building a raised platform with an in-built bathtub and open shower three steps above the floor level, pictured below. The judges all thought the couple's herringbone tile feature wall was worth the trouble (though their tiler who was pulling all-nighters alone for the majority of the week may not agree).
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/block%20michael.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
The raised shower was not so popular, with Shaynna concerned that wet, soapy steps would be unsafe for buyers and their children. Michael maintains that the tiles were fairly porous, and wouldn't be slippery. The couple was awarded 24 points for their effort.
Last week's winners took a tumble in the judges eyes - Simon and Shannon received the lowest score of the week, with 23 points. While their timber vanities were appreciated, there were a number of awkward points in the bathroom, including a hidden-but-not-so-hidden boxed-out cistern which reminded Shaynna of a public toilet (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/blockss2.jpg" alt="">
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
The judges also noticed the absence of a bath in the main bathroom, noting that it felt more like an en suite (which is was, thanks to the door adjoining the bathroom to the guest bedroom, an idea the brothers pinched from Chris and Jenna).
This week, the teams will tackle two rooms - the second bedroom and study.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Block Glasshouse newbies reborn with perfect score

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Multi-storey residential towers will be built in many parts of Sydney as numerous areas are being rezoned to allow for higher density development.
But development proposals are likely to face community opposition as residents resist changes they expect to increase traffic congestion and restrict access to amenities such as schools.
Three new areas along the future North West Rail Link in Sydney’s Hills district were announced by NSW Minister for Planning Pru Goward in August as Urban Activation Precincts.
These precincts will be rezoned to help NSW state government deliver on its policy to “substantially increase the supply of housing and employment, and improve housing choice and affordability”.
One of NSW government’s aims is to boost the supply of housing in areas with good access to infrastructure, particularly transport, to accommodate Sydney’s expanding population.
Forecasts suggest the city’s population will swell by more than 1.6 million people by 2031, requiring around 664,000 more homes, according to NSW government. As part of that anticipated expansion, the population in Sydney’s Hills district is predicted to swell by 100,000 people.
The Urban Activation Precincts around train stations being built along the $8.3 billion rail link at Bella Vista, Kellyville and Showground are expected to provide up to 12,000 homes, including townhouses, detached homes and apartments.
The Minister for Planning has allocated $15 million to the three areas for local infrastructure. Local communities will decide how the funds are allocated.
The announcement received mixed responses from Hills residents who <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheHillsShireCouncil" target="_blank">took to Facebook</a> to air their views. Some support the changes while others complained of over-development and worsening traffic problems.
Hills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne said Council had debated where the forecast population growth could be accommodated.
“We need increased densities around town centres and transport hubs so that the rest of Shire can be preserved as single-lot housing,” he said in a statement.
More broadly along the North West Rail Link corridor, <a href="https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/en-au/planningyourregion/northwestraillinkcorridorstrategy.aspx" target="_blank">28,800 new homes are expected to go up by 2036</a>.
The three locations in the Hills add to eight areas already identified as Urban Activation Precincts elsewhere in Sydney at North Ryde Station; Epping Town Centre; Herring Road, Macquarie Park; Randwick; Anzac Parade South; Carter Street, Lidcombe; Wentworth Point; and Mascot Station. Higher density development will be encouraged in each of these locations.
The Urban Taskforce is calling for even higher density than what has been suggested in the Hills’ Urban Activation Precincts.
“The proposed 12,000 new homes around three stations is a good start but more housing needs to be planned for,” Urban Taskforce chief executive Chris Johnson says.
The three new areas will need to incorporate residential towers in the mixed-use and high-density residential areas, he says.
“Taller buildings can help with affordability particularly if apartment sizes are kept to state government standards,” Johnson says. “The Urban Taskforce is concerned that the Draft Development Control Plan by the Hills Shire Council proposes apartment sizes well in excess of the state’s sizes and that this will make each apartment more expensive.”
Strong growth in capital values in the Sydney metropolitan area have contributed to a high volume of apartments being planned for development or under construction, according to Knight Frank Residential Research’s Sydney Apartment Market Update, released last week.
The market update reveals Sydney property values have been increasing by 12.15% annually to a median of $549,000, says Knight Frank Residential Research associate director Michelle Ciesielski. Rents have remained stable at $520 per week, with rental yields estimated at 4.95%.
Ciesielski says there are 26,680 apartments in metropolitan Sydney due for completion over the next three years. Almost 10,000 of these will be in the city’s North West including Parramatta, Macquarie Park, Sydney Olympic Park, Wentworth Park and Epping.
But extra development often meets with opposition, particularly in areas that have traditionally had few or no high-rise apartment buildings.
In Lewisham in Sydney’s inner west, for example, developers have faced battles since 2005 with local residents who are against proposals to build multi-storey residential towers at a site on Old Canterbury road near the Lewisham railway station and light rail corridor.
Several development applications have been knocked back and local residents formed action groups to block the development.
The site was sold to Meriton in 2012 for around $50 million and approvals have been now given for work to begin on the site. Meriton’s latest proposals include seven multi-storey buildings between four and 10 storeys tall containing 314 dwellings over two levels of basement car parking plus 128 square metres of retail space. These plans are going through Marrickville Council’s development application processes.
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zfielding-GvX3Uq9KTa

Numerous Sydney areas rezoned to allow for higher density developments

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Buxton estate agent Karl Gillon is set to take on his third sales televised Block auction marketing campaign in the latest The Block Glasshouse series.
He will be marketing the sale of contestants Maxine and Karstan’s Prahan apartment at 3/121-127 High Street.
He's previously auctioned Brad and Dale’s property on last year’s Fans Vs Faves series in the O'Grady Street, Albert Park warehouse.
<a href="/news/at-506-000-above-reserve-brad-and-laras-1-62-million-south-melbourne-sale-secures-the-block-2012-prize-result">He also sold contestants Brad and Lara’s property in 2012</a>, achieving a winning price of $1.62 million in the South Melbourne terraces series.
In recent series contestants have taken to include their estate agent in the design planning stages to ensure the apartment matches the locality demographics.
Estate agent Anton Wongtrakun of Dingle Partners is also returning. Last year he handled twins Alisa and Lysandra’s Albert Park sale.
This time it is Chris and Jenna’s apartment at number 2.
The agent newbies are Matt White of Ray White Port Phillip selling Michael and Carlene’s property at number 3 and Andrew McCann of Jellis Craig Bennison Mackinnon with Simon and Shannon’s apartment at number 4.
The AFL premiership player Darren Jolly and his wife Deanne, who <a href="/news/off-field-top-marks-for-retired-ruck-man-darren-jolly-in-renovated-surrey-hills-cottage">sold their self-renovated Edwardian era Surrey Hills</a> home through Paul Richards from Bekdon Richards on delayed settlement terms, have gone with Biggin &amp; Scott Richmond.
The High Street Block auctions are likely to take place in October.
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