<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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Retail outlet Birkenhead Point in Sydney’s Drummoyne said it has received development approval for further works at its western end, which will have fashion and food spaces besides other infrastructure upgrades.
The Mirvac Group acquired the waterfront site in 2014 and has been pushing for the upgrade which is due to start in early 2017 with completion the same year.
The shopping centre currently houses over 120 stores including Calvin Klein and Polo Ralph Lauren along with a convenience precinct anchored by Coles, Aldi, a medical centre, fresh food retailers, plus the Birkenhead Point Marina which has more than 200 berths.
The improvements include a premium fashion outlet precinct, new cafés and an upgrade to all lift lobbies and two elevators which will connect the Centre’s ground level to the roof top car park.
Mirvac Retail’s senior development manager, Christina Nelson said, “We are excited to commence this first phase of a longer-term master plan to enhance the current retail offering and customer experience at Birkenhead Point and solidify the Centre’s position as a premium retail outlet.”    
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Retail outlet Birkenhead Point in Sydney gets nod for facelift

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The majestic landmark Theatre Royal in Lithgow is listed for sale.
Built in 1920, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-lithgow-109299941" target="_blank">Theatre Royal</a> measures 768 sqm and offers future owners returns as a fine dining, entertainment and reception venue. 
The theatre features a 411 seat Mezannine level with the original projector boxes, a full size screen, a timber stage, dressing rooms and a sunken dance floor. 
There is a full size commercial kitchen and an equipped bar on each level, servicing the 150 seat restaurant. 
The building has a 54 space carpark, air conditioning, CCTV, natural gas and state of the art lighting, laser and sound systems. 
Jamie Giokaris at LJ Hooker Lithgow has the listing 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Lithgow's 1920's Theatre Royal listed

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Pelican Slipway in Queensland's Redland Bay is listed for sale.
Established in 1949, the business at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-qld-redland+bay-118637371" target="_blank">293 Esplanade</a> sits on 1,326 sqm of waterfront land with an adjoining 720 sqm seabed lease and 20 metre pontoon.
Recent extensive renovations included a 40 seat café and restaurant and the approved 200 berth Weinam Creek Marina. 
The property also has one bedroom and one bathroom. 
LJ Hooker Redland Bay agent Colin Walters has the listing.
The holding last traded for $500,000 in 2006.
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Pelican Slipway in Redland Bay listed

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An 1880's mixed-use site in Pyrmont has been snapped up by Bar Cupola Catering Pty Ltd.
They paid $3.225 million for the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-pyrmont-122433502" target="_blank">447 sqm Victorian building</a> which offers retail, office and residential uses.
The residential aspect has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with numerous kitchens and two fireplaces also part of the building.
At the time of the sale the building’s income was around $149,500 per annum.
The building last traded in 2010 for $2.74 million.
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Mixed use Pyrmont premises sold

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As the Melbourne market gradually winds down, locations in regional Victoria are rising. Regional cities and towns within striking distance of the state capital in particular are travelling well.
There are conflicting views about whether Melbourne has passed its peak or whether it’s still booming.
My research indicates the city’s market has undoubtedly passed the peak in its cycle, with a significant reduction in sales activity since the start of the year. The markets that showed exceptional price growth in the past 12-18 months, particularly middle market suburbs, are no longer growing.
There are still some good sales happening, caused partly by a shortage of listings, which is helping to keep prices strong in selected locations. But the market that existed in 2014 and 2015, with sales activity rising strongly and prices achieving double-digit annual rises in many areas, is no longer happening.
But regional markets close to Melbourne are rising. I have written in the recent past about the City of Greater Geelong, which is now the strongest market in the state.
Bendigo and Ballarat, both strong regional economies close to the state capital, are solid markets with steady price growth.
In between those cities and Melbourne, there are two municipalities which have caught the wave from Melbourne and grabbed the attention of people seeking an affordable lifestyle just outside the city.
These are Macedon Ranges Shire and Mitchell Shire. In a July column I touched briefly on these places in discussing state government population projections.
Macedon Ranges is expected to grow its population 25 percent over the next 15 years. But the municipality likely to see the most dramatic increase in population is Mitchell Shire, which is forecast to more than double its population from 40,000 in 2016 to 81,500 in 2031.
This will make Mitchell Shire - a little north of Melbourne, including towns such as Kilmore, Seymour, Broadford and Wallan - the fastest-growing area in the state.
In the next 20 years Wallan (which is about 60km from the Melbourne CBD) is projected to grow from 11,000 to 31,000, while the village of Beveridge is forecast to explode from the current 1,700 to 21,000.
The towns of Macedon Ranges have already experienced substantial price growth. Towns with big increases in median prices in the past 12 months include Gisborne (up 11 percent), Riddells Creek (up 14 percent), Macedon (up 30 percent) and Mt Macedon (up 18 percent). The median house price for Macedon has risen from $530,000 to $685,000 in 12 months.
Now we’re seeing the towns of Mitchell Shire starting to move. The attractions are affordability relative to Melbourne; a relaxed country lifestyle; and proximity to Melbourne with good road and rail links. It’s feasible to live there while commuting to jobs in Melbourne (keeping in mind that most Melbourne jobs are NOT in the CBD – many of them are in the northern suburbs).
Median house prices include $350,000 in Kilmore, $240,000 in Seymour, $285,000 in Broadford and $380,000 in Wallan.
To date price growth has been moderate – around 5-6% in the past 12 months – but more is expected in the near future.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a>
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Forget Melbourne, the regions are Victoria's rising property hotspots 

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<div>Total construction work done declined by a further 1.9 percent in the June 2016 quarter to $47.8 billion, to be 7.9 percent lower over the year. </div>
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<div>The result was driven by another 5.1 percent decline in engineering construction in the quarter - largely mining related - to leave this component down by 24.9 percent year-on-year.</div>
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<div>The building boom, on the other hand, continues apace. </div>
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<div>Although there has been a solid increase in alterations and additions (major renovations) lately, record building activity through this cycle has been overwhelmingly been driven by "other residential" building, specifically units, apartments, and townhouses.  </div>
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<div>Mining cliff now 4 years old</div>
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<div>Next month it will be fully four years since the so-termed "mining cliff" began. </div>
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<div>Interestingly engineering construction work done increased in the June 2016 quarter in Queensland, where most of the retracement has already taken place, while activity has actually trended up strongly in New South Wales and Victoria over the past year. </div>
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<div>I've long been warning that Western Australia would have to take its medicine sooner or later, and the reality check kicked in this quarter, with engineering construction crashing down to be some 48 per cent lower than one year ago. </div>
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<div>These figures confirm what has no doubt been obvious on the ground for some time - that the local economy is doing it tough as it passes through this painful slowdown period.</div>
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<div>Engineering construction work done has also fallen substantially in the Northern Territory over the last six quarters, including by a further 28 per cent over the past year, with only the massive Ichthys LNG project is holding this result aloft.</div>
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<div class="separator">The good news is that the decline in engineering construction is now thought to be around 80 percent complete, meaning that sooner or later this will stop being such a drag on the economy. </div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">In fact, in New South Wales, Victoria, and now Queensland, it already has. </div>
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<div class="separator">Record building boom continues</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">The building boom and its associated multiplier effect has largely benefited the largest capital cities.</div>
<a href="/images/2016/08/25/A4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/08/25/A4.jpg" alt="">
<div>New house building, while still increasing steadily in Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia, appears to have peaked for this cycle nationally.</div>
<a href="/images/2016/08/25/A5.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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<div>On the other hand the value of construction work done on attached dwellings was still tracking at record levels in the June quarter. </div>
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The wrap Residential building activity was still running at full pelt through the second quarter of the year, pushing up building costs in cities such as Sydney. The Housing Industry Association (HIA) announced today that it believes that new home building will now decline for the next three years, with annual commencements falling from a peak of over 232,500 dwellings to 166,500 in 2018/19, with some downside risks to the forecast.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The good news is that engineering construction will have already stopped falling significantly over the next 18 months. Ichthys aside, most of the project-driven declines have now washed through the figures outside Western Australia. Analysts expect to see moderate GDP growth in the second quarter of calendar year 2016 with net exports not making much of a contribution this time around. On balance, though, the planned hand-off has been pulled off very well, with Australia now getting close to the bottom of its mining cliff. Although resources regions have felt the pain, the largest capital cities have by and large pulled through relatively unscathed. </div>
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<div>
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
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Record building boom continues: Pete Wargent

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Sydney's Pocket Bar in Darlinghurst, a former garage, is up for auction 6 September through Tom Speakman and Harry Sullivan of Gunning Real Estate. 
The property, 13 Burton Street, Darlinghurst has been named as one of the Sydney’s Best Small Bars and is run by The Little Pocket Group, who have a total of six venues.
The gross rental for the 147sqm holding is $159,352 annually, exclusive of GST. A five year lease commenced in March, 2014 with options until 2024.
Tom Spearman, Gunning director of metropolitan sales and investments said the previous owners brought the entire floor and then carved it into strata shops and have sold them over time.
“When the idea of small bars was first put forward the opportunity to transform 13 Burton Street into a venue was quickly snapped up," he said.
"It has a stunning interior with exposed timber beams and sits below a four storey warehouse refurbished as a residential building. 
“Limited supply and strong stable income sees 13 Burton Street, Darlinghurst as an ideal property for a superannuation fund, as well as a general investment."
The property goes to auction Tuesday, 6 September, 2016 from 10:30am at auctionWORKS: Mezzanine Level, 50 Margaret Street, Sydney. 
 
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Sydney's Pocket Bar, Darlinghurst, up for auction 

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Two beachfront sites ideal for development have come on the market in Perth - one in Safety Bay and the other in Sorrento.
The Safety Bay 13,130sqm beachfront property, 434 Safety Bay Road (above), is on the market through CBRE’s Michael Milne, Ben Younger and Matthew Elliott via an offers invited process closing 21 September.
The site, on the corner of Safety Bay and Malibu roads, has 80 metres’ frontage to Waikiki Beach and already has a approval for a multi-staged development comprising 190 apartments and more than 2,000sqm of retail and commercial space. 
The beachfront position and favourable zoning presented strong opportunities, according to Michael Milne.
“This significant site is suitable for a broad range of mixed-use development options including retail, fast food, hotel, serviced apartments, aged care, and high-rise residential apartments," he said.
“Buyers have the comfort of the recent planning approval which provides for a three stage – seven level project, or can opt for alternative development and subdivision strategies.  
The 2,311sqm Sorrento beachfront property, 136 West Coast Drive, (below) is being offered for sale with a long lease to Woolworths Limited trading as BWS, and lease to Italian eatery II Pirata Pizzeria and Cafe. It has an annual income of $221,000 plus outgoings.
<img src="/images/2016/08/24/700_bws.jpg" alt="" width="601" height="365">
The consolidated offering comprises three adjoining properties, with multiple street frontage aspects to West Coast Drive, The Plaza and Cadbury Way.
CBRE selling agents Michael Milne, Ben Younger and Kate Foley hare marketing market the property via an offers invited bidding process closing September 22 on behalf of property development advisory group OP Properties.
Mr Milne said the property was anticipated to generate strong interest from a broad range of buyer groups.
“The strong lease profile coupled with the significant underlying land holding will appeal to investors, land bankers and developer groups which are happy to enjoy a strong income stream,” he said.
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Prized Perth beachfront investments hit the market

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SPONSORED POST 
How do you know if you are paying too much rent?
Every tenant of a commercial property should be confident that they are paying market value rent.
While there is no set formula that can tell you exactly what your rent should be, there are ways to know whether or not the rent you pay is fair.
Every tenant of a commercial property should be confident that they are paying market value rent.
How is rent calculated?
Commercial property rent is usually calculated on a rate per square metre, for example $320 sqm. So the larger the premises, the more you pay. However it is more complicated than that. The rate per square metre depends on a number of factors. These include location, condition and age of the property, surrounding tenants, included services and sometimes even the lease terms.
Figuring out an appropriate rent means weighing up all of these factors as well as the current market conditions.
As a tenant, or potential tenant, the best way to find out whether your rent is fair is by doing your research.
How do I know how much is right?
The easiest and often most informative method is to search online for other properties that are similar in size, location and/or purpose. You will very quickly get a sense of what is on the market and for how much. If you keep checking over time you will also be able to see which properties get rented and which ones don’t. And you will notice if rental prices are going up or down.
Another good idea is to ask other tenants in your area. Knowing what people are actually paying is the best way to decide whether or not the rent you pay is fair.
Real estate agents are another fantastic source of information. It’s their job to know the market. Ask them what they have on their books. This is especially useful if your lease is up for renewal. You might be surprised by what else is available, how much people are paying and what incentives are on offer.
Real estate agents are another fantastic source of information. It’s their job to know the market.
All of this will give you a sense of the market rate. If you think you are being overcharged then look at your lease – when is it up for renewal and what are the terms? Remember you can and should start renegotiating your lease at least six months before it is due to expire.
Knowing what the market rate is and what other properties are available will help you negotiate the best deal with your landlord.
A little bit of research, to help you know how much you should be paying, will help ensure you don’t pay too much.
For more information, <a href="https://bs.serving-sys.com/BurstingPipe/adServer.bs?cn=tf&amp;c=20&amp;mc=click&amp;pli=18755997&amp;PluID=0&amp;ord=%5Btimestamp%5D" target="_blank">click here</a>.
About realcommercial.com.au: realcommercial.com.au is the leading website in Australia for commercial property, attracting an average of 1.7 million visitors a month (Source: Nielsen Online Market Intelligence, Total Traffic, average calculation May-July 2015, includes app traffic from Omniture Site Catalyst as Nielsen doesn’t report on app). It is owned and operated by realestate.com.au Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of ASX-listed REA Group Limited ACN 068 349 066 (ASX:REA).
 
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Are you paying too much rent on your commercial property? realcommercial.com.au

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Commercial real estate is too cheap, according to one of the world's leading real estate academics, Professor Andrew Baum, the visiting professor of management practice at the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford.
Professor Baum acknowledged the extremely attractive risk premium over bonds. 
"If you get 1.8 per cent on a bond, why is real estate trading at 5 percent? It would not surprise if the yields went down to 3.5 percent," he told the Australian Financial Review.
Professor Baum said most people assumed bond yields would rise but with a glut of savings around the world it could be some time till they turn.
"It is possible that yields will stay low for a long time, in which case property yields could go lower."
<a href="/images/2016/08/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-24%20at%2012.11.53%20pm.png" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/08/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-24%20at%2012.11.53%20pm.png" alt="" width="338" height="263">
Professor Baum outlined three possible scenarios.
1) Bond yields stay low, in which case, "property is a screaming buy".
2) Bond yields rise with Professor Baum estimating that the current yield gap could absorb a rise of 1 percent rise in bond yield without any more in real estate yields.
"Real bond yields you have to rise 2 percent before it affects real estate pricing," he said.
3) Inflation expectations and real bond yields surge beyond the 2 percent cushion.
"The question then is whether property is an inflation hedge," he said, pointing out that over 35 years in the UK, inflation had averaged 3.2 percent a year – and so had commercial rents.
Professor Baum says the second scenario is the most likely and Australia looks good with a relatively high property yield relative to local bonds.
Professor Baum is a chartered surveyor who will speak at the University of Sydney Business School CBD campus on the lessons from the European experience of real estate in a low interest rate environment on Thursday.
His visit comes as the latest Australia All Property Index has been released by the Property Council/IPD Australia. It provides a broad measure of investment returns for the commercial property market in Australia.
<a href="/images/2016/08/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-24%20at%2012.11.58%20pm.png" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/08/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-24%20at%2012.11.58%20pm.png" alt="" width="293" height="240">
The index database is comprised of property assets from 61 funds with a combined asset value of A$165 billion representing 1,419 assets.
The index details total return, income return and capital return for office, retail, industrial and other sectors on a quarterly basis.
The annualised total return for the year ending June 2016 was 13.3%.
This result is above the 11.8% return of June 2015 and above the 15 year annualised return of 10.5%.
Office returns were 14.6%, industrial 13.5% and retail 11.2% as at June 2016.
Cap rates for the quarter at an all property level tightened to 6.2%.
Retail cap rates tightened to 5.9%, office cap rates tightened to 6.2% and industrial cap rates tightened to 7.2%.
The composition (by value) across the sectors is retail (42%), office (44%), industrial (9%) and other (5%).
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