Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Box Hill

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House and land buyers were out in force in Sydney's north west, where 159 of the 165 lots sold in the first land release at Celestino's The Gables project in The Hills.
Around $95 million of land was sold over two days in the $4 billion Box Hill project, at an average $600,000 a block.
"House hunters welcomed the idea that over one third of the land released was via an auction method with reserve prices published prior to the weekend," said development director Matthew Scard.
The first land release in The Gables Box Hill was released over two days through priority number and auction.
Lot sizes from 450sqm to 600sqm will be released, with prices starting from $520,000. Some lots are elevated and have views overlooking the entire project.
Matthew Scard, said over 13,000 people will eventually move into The Gables. with 4,000 dwellings will be built on the 3330 hectare holding. The development includes a proposed lake, a 5.5 hectare town centre, active and passive open spaces, a school, new roads and associated infrastructure.
Over 5,000 house hunters registered for the first land release in the masterplanned community. Sales ranged from $520,000 for a 450 sq m land lot up to $771,000 for a 702 sq m lot.
Jason Keen, sales director for Celestino said the sales result at the weekend was outstanding. The project is within a 10 minute commute from Rouse Hill Town Centre, the future Rouse Hill train station on the North West Rail Line and Schofields train station. 
The new sales centre is located at 121 Old Pitt Town Road, Box Hill.
For more information on The Gables <a href="https://www.thegablesboxhill.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The Gables secure $95 million in weekend land sales

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Whitehorse Towers (850 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill) had its planning permit settled at VCAT mediation on Thursday, with the permit to be issued shortly.

The development, set to be the tallest outside the inner city - and most certainly middle-ring Melbourne's tallest building - comprises two towers of 36 and 26 levels respectively.

The 36 level tower has a height of 115 metres and the shorter 26 level tower will measure 84 metres. Whitehorse Towers is mixed-use with residential units, hotel rooms, retail and restaurant tenancies.

Within the podium will be 100 hotel suites, set to form Asian Pacific Group's next Art Series Hotel. Atop the podium will be a children's play area complete with equipment.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/v03_hero_tower_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Whitehorse Towers, image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="637" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v03_hero_tower_2.jpg?itok=QbxHkoUb" title="Whitehorse Towers, image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Whitehorse Towers, image: supplied</figcaption></figure>The roof level of the shorter tower will include a pool and given the site is approximately 80 metres above sea level, the view are set to impress.

Tim Ryder, Director at pro-Urban Planning who acted on Asian Pacific Group's behalf said "The approval process with Whitehorse Council was a very positive one that involved extensive collaboration with Council’s planners and as a result of this process a fantastic development for Box Hill is going to be delivered".

Daniel Faigen, Development Manager at Asian Pacific Group, commented that "Whitehorse Towers will set the standard in mixed-use towers in Melbourne and in the way council is working with developers, Whitehorse Towers will mark the creation of Box Hill as a second city within Melbourne"

Asian Pacific Group has seen significant buyer interest in the apartments and have told Apartments.com.au they expect to have the project sold out within eight weeks.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/apg8362_white_horse_towers_v05_hero_detail.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Westerly view from Whitehorse Towers, image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="200" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/apg8362_white_horse_towers_v05_hero_detail.jpg?itok=IOmDmKO_" title="Westerly view from Whitehorse Towers, image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Westerly view from Whitehorse Towers, image: supplied</figcaption></figure>
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Alastair Taylor

Whitehorse Towers, Box Hill's largest development approved

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Box Hill Hospital's new 52,000 square metre facility was officially opened on on 12 August 2014. The $447.5 million redevelopment and expansion of the existing Box Hill Hospital is a vanguard project of sorts, marking the first completed facility in the current wave of new hospital projects throughout greater Melbourne which are either well into construction or due to commence.

Together these projects represent billions of dollars worth of investment into the State's health infrastructure, and rightfully so as Melbourne and Victoria's population continues to grow (and age) rapidly.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/bhh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new Box Hill Hospital Building A"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bhh.jpg?itok=Y-aHlCpH" title="The new Box Hill Hospital Building A" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new Box Hill Hospital Building A</figcaption></figure>Below are five large-scale hospital projects currently under construction. Clockwise they are the <a href="http://www.vcccproject.vic.gov.au/">Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre</a>, <a href="http://www.peninsulahealth.org.au/frankston-hospital-stage-3/">Frankston Hospital Stage 3</a>, <a href="/news/monash-childrens-hospital-begins-construction">Monash Children's Hospital</a>, <a href="http://www.warringalprivate.com.au/Redevelopment/">Warringal Private</a> and <a href="http://www.epworth.org.au/About-Us/Major-Projects/Richmond-Redevelopment/Pages/homepage.aspx">Epworth Pod 4</a>. The combined project value of these five projects represents a $1.5 billion (approx) investment into new local public and private hospitals, hundreds of new beds and the advancement in treatment and technology standards.

Ancillary to the core purpose of the structures is the design flair which has been employed. Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre holds prime position on the Haymarket roundabout and Silver Thomas Hanley/DesignInc with McBride Charles Ryan have designed an astounding building.  Lyons have produced Frankston Stage 3 while field specialist Silver Thomas Hanley are responsible for the three remaining projects.

Add the recent Royal Children's Hospital build and the internal/external design quality of Melbourne's healthcare facilities has taken a quantum leap forward.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image70h.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Five hospitals currently under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70h.jpg?itok=ZdU08B-Q" title="Five hospitals currently under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Five Melbourne hospitals currently under construction</figcaption></figure><h2>Upcoming projects</h2>

Healthscope have recently lodged plans for an expansion of John Fawkner Hospital located in Coburg. Works would see an expanded existing hospital, including four level extensions to both Glencairn Avenue and Jessie Street.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image66jf.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An expanded John Fawkner. Image © Billard Leece"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66jf.jpg?itok=Fb6BG_tA" title="An expanded John Fawkner. Image © Billard Leece" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An expanded John Fawkner. Image © Billard Leece</figcaption></figure>In an altogether larger project Healthscope have initiated works on Knox Private Hospital's expansion with Watpac last week announcing it had been awarded an initial $45 million contract to undertake works onsite.

The overall Knox Private masterplan conceived by Woods Bagot calls for the facility to become the second largest hospital in Victoria, with online documents available via <a href="https://www.knox.vic.gov.au/Files/Planning/DPO_Amended_Drawings_-_submitted_to_Council_January_2014.pdf">Knox City Council's website</a>. The four-year $180 million project would see 750 construction jobs created with an additional 1000 permanent positions once the expansion is complete.

According to <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/knox-private-hospital-to-get-180m-upgrade-create-1750-local-jobs/story-fngnvlxu-1226707677700">Knox Leader</a> "An extra 240 beds, four new surgical wards, a new labour delivery unit, bigger emergency department and 350 extra parking spots" will be included.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image67knox.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Knox Private. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67knox.jpg?itok=fGrKPBs_" title="Knox Private. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Knox Private. Image © Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Elsewhere fringe facilities <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/generation_healthcare_to_build_hospital_f4M59DF9xDBdYUQndIcomO">Casey Private</a> and Epping Hospital are preparing for sizeable expansions, with Casey catering for three new buildings one of which is a second dedicated hospital. <a href="http://www.epworth.org.au/about-us/major-projects/freemasons-redevelopment/Pages/homepage.aspx">Freemasons East Melbourne</a> is due for a $59 million expansion while Royal Melbourne's masterplan also envisages for the addition of new buildings, potentially including a 20 level tower fronting Royal Parade, thus allowing growth for on of Melbourne's most important facilities.

Lead image credit: <a href="http://www.floodslicer.com.au/">Flood Slicer</a>.
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silvermb

Expanding Melbourne's healthcare infrastructure

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Most readers would be aware of the AXF Group project titled Sovereign Square which has garnered considerable media attention of late owing to the fact it will become suburban Melbourne's tallest building. Whilst Sovereign Square has moved to public registrations of interest via its <a href="http://www.sovereignsquare.com.au/" target="_blank">website</a>, a raft of other projects in Box Hill are set to rapidly transform the scale and feel of the area.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/External%20Image_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sovereign Square. Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1030" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/External%20Image_0.jpg?itok=PWdsKFr_" title="Sovereign Square. Image © Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

Looking through the Apartments.com.au database Sovereign Square is one of nine projects in Box Hill and Box Hill North that are at various stages of the development cycle. Together these projects will deliver near 1000 new dwellings to the area.

With established education, health, transport and retail options plus a diversified population base Box Hill also lends itself to a myriad of mixed-use developments. Leading the charge is the currently under construction 20 level, near 80 metre office complex at 913 Whitehorse Road. Built by Grocon for Cromwell Property Group, the 19,680 square metre facility is 97% leased to the Australian Taxation Office and marks a break-out tower for Box Hill both in terms of height anf bulk.

On the hotel scene, 1 Elland Avenue (below left) is currently for sale with a pre-lease for the development's 49 serviced apartments held by City Edge Apartment Hotels, adding further diversity to the City of Whitehorse's primary hub.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image6_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Ellard Avenue &amp; 913 Whitehorse Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_14.jpg?itok=vx-F4vSc" title="1 Ellard Avenue &amp; 913 Whitehorse Road" width="580"></a>

The latest proposal for Box Hill comes in the form of a dual tower development designed by Peddle Thorp Architects. At 26 levels the complex may well raise eyebrows in the area due to size and height, yet the approval of Sovereign Square has set a precedent to a degree.

Peddle Thorp's take on the project:

<blockquote>
The Box Hill Mixed Use Development will consist of 330 apartments over 26 levels. The residential tower amenities are enhanced by the new 'retail street' at ground level. At podium level the 'sky garden' gives access to a range of cafes, bars and restaurants that spill onto a sun filled green space. The second skin to the residential tower allows the occupants to control the light and privacy in their homes, whilst creating a facade which is 'alive' and forever changing.
</blockquote>

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image18_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="Image © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="718" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image18_1.jpg?itok=LsIedXDk" title="Image © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

So what will the Box Hill of the future resemble? South Yarra immediately comes to mind, particularly in terms of developing a mini-skyline with similar proportional characteristics - a throng of medium sized towers of 7-12 levels perforated by a handful of high-rise buildings nearing or beyond the 100 metre mark.

The major advantages that Box Hill holds over suburban centres such as South Yarra, Doncaster Hill or Preston is its well established and centralised institutional and commercial sectors which act as strong employment generators for the area, allowing in part apartment developments to flourish. All the ingredients are there for Box Hill to expand immensely, the question posed is how big could Box Hill of the future become?
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Box Hill gathers momentum

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Announcing Imperial Doncaster 60% sold with Hacer Group to commence construction within weeks, <a href="http://www.axfgroup.com.au/" target="_blank">AXF Group</a> have simultaneously unveiled final renders for the now approved 34 level <a href="/new-apartments/sky-one-box-hill-545-563-station-street-box-hill">Sovereign Square</a> project at 545 Station Street, Box Hill.  

At 120 metres above sea level, Doncaster Hill commands excellent views in all directions and future residents will be afforded and even greater perspective once the 10 level Imperial Doncaster development is completed. 

Sales and Marketing manager for AXF, Scott Jessop, says beyond the headline figure of 60% of apartments sold, Imperial Doncaster has attracted strong interest from local owner-occupiers looking to remain loyal to their community by downsizing into Imperial Doncaster's offerings.  The project has reportedly seen keen interest from buyers who wish to play a more hands-on role in configuring their apartments with multi-purchase and combine configurations a common occurrence.

Like all the projects we track around the city, Apartments.com.au will be keeping a watchful eye on Imperial Doncaster's construction progress post the construction launch in March.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/GS_Doncaster_External%20Daylight%20V1_RETOUCH_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Imperial Doncaster - Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/GS_Doncaster_External%20Daylight%20V1_RETOUCH_0.jpg?itok=lZIgIBEK" title="Imperial Doncaster - Image © Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

A short trip along the aptly named Tram Road - the route of the <a href="http://www.hawthorntramdepot.org.au/papers/boxhill.htm" target="_blank">Southern Hemisphere's first electric tramway</a> which opened in 1889 - is another development by AXF Group previously known as 545 Station Street Box Hill, and now referred to as Sovereign Square.

Having spent more than a decade observing projects all around Melbourne, this site has appeared on the radar multiple times in one guise or another, yet the current proposal is the pick of all that have been put forward.  AXF Group have once more utilised Imperial Doncaster designers <a href="http://buchan.com.au/" target="_blank">Buchan Group</a> to produce this 34 level residential tower on the corner of Station Street and Carrington Road, destined to be suburban Melbourne's tallest building.

Perhaps most satisfactory of all, Sovereign Square will set an example as to what can be done with the surface car parks that blight our suburban activity centres throughout the metropolitan area.

Where Imperial Doncaster consisted of 94 apartments, Sovereign Square will boast 419.  Studio, one, two and three bedroom configurations will be present throughout the building and 288 car, 15 motorbike and 167 bicycle spaces will round out the on-site transport aspects of the project.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/External%20Image.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sovereign Square - Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1030" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/External%20Image.jpg?itok=jQdF8KTv" title="Sovereign Square - Image © Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

Given Sovereign Square's location directly adjacent to Box Hill Station with the comprehensive array of transport options located within the immediate vicinity, this tower is located in an area ripe for intensive urban development.

Carrington Road, synonymous with Indochinese cuisine, forms one of the site's boundaries and Sovereign Square looks set to expand the dining precinct with 2677 square metres of restaurant space within the podium, supplemented by 715 square metres of ground floor food premises. A further 2263 square metres of premium serviced office space is also to be included.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Podium%20Corner.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Podium%20Corner.jpg?itok=_y-sVl-9" title="Image © Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

Sovereign Square is an interesting turn of events for the this middle ring corridor in Eastern Melbourne, not only because of the scale of the development but more so the prolonged period of time taken for Box Hill to densify?

As discussed earlier, Box Hill appears - on paper at least - to be the better node to support higher densities given both the high frequency of rail services right through the heart of the suburb, Tram 109 as well as its concentration of bus routes to and from the activities district.

With a flurry of mid-rise proposals north of Whitehorse Road, Box Hill Hospital's redevelopment and the now under construction ATO office accommodation, Box Hill has started to flex its muscle by demonstrating it can capitalise on all the necessary elements it has at its disposal to mature into an urban hub, with Sovereign Square leading the way

 
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Imperial Doncaster starts construction, Sovereign Square unveiled

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And so another chapter today for what is expected to become suburban Melbourne's tallest tower with a revised planning application recently submitted for 545 Station Street, Box Hill.  Speaking volumes to the developer's intent to deliver a landmark for the area, <a href="http://www.axfgroup.com.au/" target="_blank">AXF Group</a> have once more facilitated a new planning application for Whitehorse City Council's consideration.

The latest incarnation for the site follows years in which property developers have tried to deliver a landmark development for Melbourne's Eastern suburbs.  Initially holding a permit for a 23 level tower granted during 2004, Barton Australia Group tried revising the approved plans to include a 133.3m mixed-use proposal holding 232 residential and 176 serviced apartments, 4110 sqm of retail space and 4350 sqm of commercial floor area.  Eventually scuttled by VCAT during 2010, the 33 level building seemed to fall by the wayside.

2012 heralded a new planning application with AXF Group publicly taking the reigns for the project. Still with 33 levels, yet smaller at 111m in height, 545 Station Street drew considerable comment due to the near chaotic design (below right) put forward by <a href="http://buchan.com.au/" target="_blank">Buchan Group Architects</a>. Columnists such as <a href="http://blogs.crikey.com.au/theurbanist/2012/06/06/does-this-look-like-a-landmark-building/" target="_blank">Alan Davies</a> questioned the merits of the design while Whitehorse City Council remained conspicuously quiet, and with good reason as it was revealed that the project had been put on hold due to an amended design taking shape.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Imageggg5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Defunct 545 Station Street schemes. Images courtesy Whitehorse Leader &amp; AXF Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Imageggg5.jpg?itok=OxmW60i7" title="Defunct 545 Station Street schemes. Images courtesy Whitehorse Leader &amp; AXF Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Submitted in recent weeks, the new 545 Station Street proposal is now with Whitehorse City Council.  Ostensibly dumbed down, one could argue the revised design is an altogether more refined project which has seemingly listened to concerns and addressed them by way of an all glass, gold and silver tower.  Buchan Architects are once more responsible for the design; its showpiece being the 'tiled' north and south facades that draw design parallels to another Melbourne project - <a href="/news">Silver &amp; Bronze</a> currently at sales within Melbourne's Docklands.

Once more at 33 levels, the scheme now measures 114.2m in height on a site area of 2417sqm. A total of 419 apartments have been included within the tower, consisting of studio, one, two and three bedroom options with a typical floor plate holding a net floor area of 1055sqm. Studio apartments number 70 while one bedroom options number 72.  A healthy 264 two bedroom options are included with the balance consisting of 13 three bedroom apartments located through the towers highest levels.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image25_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Buchan's revised Box Hill submission. Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image25_1.jpg?itok=nagHH9as" title="Buchan's revised Box Hill submission. Image © Buchan Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The lower levels have come in for particular attention with Buchan Group significantly increasing the interactive nature of the immediate areas facing Station Street and surrounds.  A total of 288 car parking spaces have been provided for within five levels of underground parking, as have been 168 bicycle and 15 motorbike spaces. Vehicle access is via Carrington Road, allowing a full active frontage facing Station Street whilst a truck turntable is incorporated into the loading bay, maximising use of space.  A potential pedestrian link to Box Hill Centro Shopping Centre has been allowed for within the plans, further enhancing the public realm should the tower proceed.

Lower levels host a number of uses, with multiple restaurants totalling 2677sqm incorporated into the podium.  A further 715sqm of food and drink premises have also been allowed for, indicating the podium has been designed to be heavily used by the public, particularly outside normal business hours - a good outcome indeed.  2263sqm of serviced office space is also included whilst level six hosts 572sqm of residential gym/club/pool facilities.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image3_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The street scape, a quantum leap forward. Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_16.jpg?itok=OFXXzcop" title="The street scape, a quantum leap forward. Image © Buchan Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

For those who know the area well the podium of the new 545 Station Street proposal is in itself a vast improvement over the previous design and a quantum leap forward relative to what is found onsite at the moment. An open air car park, 545 Station Street is the ultimate detraction to the public realm in an area that has for sometime seemed tired and uninviting.

AXF Group would certainly be hoping that after years of trying to gain approval for 545 Station Street Box Hill, the revised planning application may finally curry favour with Whitehorse City Council. A 'bomb site' ripe for renewal surrounded by transport options, retail and services within an activity centre - if ever the Eastern suburbs were to gain a landmark tower, 545 Station Street seems the logical location for it.  Time will tell.

 
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