<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

&nbsp;

The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-4" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" dir="auto">
The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

Brunswick

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Brunswick's Jewell Station Precinct redevelopment has progressed with the master plan currently open to public comment. A joint project between land owner VicTrack and property developer Neometro, Jewell Station Precinct forms part of VicTrack’s <a href="https://www.victrack.com.au/en/projects/details/projects%20n-z/station-precinct-enhancement-program#.VNanRjGUfUc">Station Precinct Enhancement</a> program which seeks to cede under-utilised VicTrack-owned land to developers for renewal.

In turn proceeds from the redevelopment of Jewell Station Precinct will allow VicTrack to fund the revitalisation of the station forecourt, creating a safer and more accessible transport hub.

BKK Architects, McAllister Alcock Architects and landscape/urban design practice Glas form the design team appointed to create "A community asset that becomes part of the cultural fabric of Brunswick, ”according to Neometro Director James Tutton​. As seen below both architecture firms are more than capable of creating highly distinctive, small to medium scale developments that also deliver quality urban design outcomes.

<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/image64.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="selected projects from both BKK Architects and McAllister Alcock Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image64.jpg?itok=wr1061_E" title="selected projects from both BKK Architects and McAllister Alcock Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Selected projects from both BKK Architects and McAllister Alcock Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Jewell Station master plan highlights</h2>

As sourced via the recent media release, Jewell Station Precinct's design will be heavily influenced by the following factors:

<h3>Activation of the station forecourt</h3>

The station entrance, currently dominated by a large asphalt area, is proposed to be reactivated by a grand staircase with integrated seating, where commuters and residents can sit and take in the precinct’s public art features, public square and enjoy an elevated café terrace looking down Wilson Avenue. This public square is imagined as a flexible space that will evolve with needs of the local community, offering infrastructure to host small events such as pop-up concerts and market stalls.

<h3>Improvements for cyclists and pedestrians</h3>

The Upfield cycle path will be significantly improved to increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Rumble strips and slopes will be added to the station’s approach in both directions to slow cyclists and prevent collisions, while clearer markings will highlight to pedestrians the shared nature of the path. Bike facilities, such as pumps for flats and bike racks, are also suggested within the precinct.

<blockquote>
This bike path is a highway for cyclists travelling to and from the city and has been the basis of intense planning to improve the safety and accessibility for both cyclists and pedestrians around the station
<cite>Neometro Director, James Tutton</cite>
</blockquote>

<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/image69_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Jewell Station precinct. Image courtesy Neometro"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image69_1.jpg?itok=gOPhp_7A" title="Jewell Station precinct. Image courtesy Neometro" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jewell Station precinct. Image courtesy Neometro</figcaption></figure><h3>Apartment design to create a village feel</h3>

Community gardens and two apartment buildings designed with Neometro’s signature passion for great design and architecture will bookend the northern and southern ends of the site. At a proposed eight levels each, the buildings have been designed in accordance with the Brunswick Structure Plan and will feature various commercial spaces and flexible studios at the ground floor interface.

<h3>Improvements to safety</h3>

The western side of the station will see improvements to the public park with lighting, picnic areas, a larger community garden to increase the safety and amenity. Proposed parcel pick-up locker facilities will allow nearby residents to collect deliveries on the way home. A dedicated space is also proposed to service the nearby RMIT campus, which will be asked to outline its desires for the site.

<h2>Comment: better luck this time round</h2>

<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/image68_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ikon Glen Waverley. Render courtesy NH Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="286" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_1.jpg?itok=BVYuzNS5" title="Ikon Glen Waverley. Render courtesy NH Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ikon Glen Waverley. Render courtesy NH Architecture</figcaption></figure>VicTrack's initial attempt at station enhancement is more a tale of woe. Seen above left was the initial design created by NH Architecture for a Glen Waverley Station residential block, which ultimately morphed into a disappointing urban outcome when completed at the turn of 2014. Teaming with Consolidated Properties, Ikon Glen Waverley looks to be more an attempt at cost cutting and maximising profits rather than delivering a lasting positive urban outcome.

How will Jewell Station Precinct provide a better outcome? With Neometro comes a <a href="/news/james-tutton-on-all-things-urban">very different ethos</a> to development, emphasised by their B Corporation status achieved in 2013.

<blockquote>
Success for us is defined by the delivery of social, community and financial outcomes. Jewell Station is the perfect canvas for this approach. The transformation of this precinct will give locals and the wider community a beautiful, safe, creative and active space to play and live in.
<cite>Neometro Director, James Tutton​</cite>
</blockquote>

The hope of course is a far superior outcome to that of Glen Waverley. A period of community feedback for Jewell Station Precinct is now underway with the wider public able and encouraged to provide commentary which will ultimately help refine plans prior to their submission for approval.

Visit <a href="http://jewellstation.engagementhq.com/jewell-station">jewellstation.engagementhq.com</a> for details.
</body></html>

silvermb

Jewell Station's redevelopment a step closer

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Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Brunswick, Coburg, Northcote and Preston: suburbs synonymous with Melbourne's inner North and increasingly at the forefront of Melbourne's accelerating density. Following on from <a href="/news/melbourne-development-numbers-building-size-project-status-january-2015">last week's overarching article</a>, we'll gradually be taking a closer look at Melbourne's development numbers - region by region - and today's focus is on the three local government areas that reside to the immediate north of City of Melbourne/Yarra.

Moonee Valley, Moreland and Darebin between them represent 100 projects or 17% of the total projects being tracked on Apartments.com.au. Eight of Melbourne's 24 tram routes and all four northern train lines pass through the LGA's in focus and according to demographers <a href="http://home.id.com.au/">.id</a>, 26% of <a href="http://profile.id.com.au/moreland/residents">Moreland</a> residents, 24% of <a href="http://profile.id.com.au/moonee-valley/residents">Moonee Valley</a> residents and 21% of <a href="http://profile.id.com.au/darebin/residents">Darebin</a> residents work in either the CBD or the remainder of the City of Melbourne.

With the majority of Melbourne metro's population living in the East and South, for people who may not venture beyond the aforementioned areas, the numbers in the inner north may surprise.

<h2>Moonee Valley</h2>

Low and mid-rise buildings dominate both the number of projects and number of residential units in Moonee Valley with two high-rises limited to Moonee Ponds CBD and <a href="/new-apartments/only-flemington-1-ascot-vale-road-flemington">Only Flemington</a> opposite Flemington Racecourse.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Building Type</th>
			<th scope="col">Planning Assessment</th>
			<th scope="col">Approved</th>
			<th scope="col">Registration &amp; Sales</th>
			<th scope="col">Under Construction</th>
			<th scope="col">Total</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Low -rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">5 projects, 135 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, 111 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">7 projects, 246 units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Mid-rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, 100 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, 53 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">5 projects, 295 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">6 projects, 607 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">15 projects, 1055 units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">High-rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, 231 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1 project, 408 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">3 projects, 639 units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Total</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">4 projects, 331 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, 53 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">11 projects, 838 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">8 projects, 718 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">25 projects, 1940 units</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<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/image35_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Collins &amp; Queen on Keilor Road, Niddrie. Image © bpmcorp.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35_0.jpg?itok=sgmNZ0VD" title="Collins &amp; Queen on Keilor Road, Niddrie. Image © bpmcorp.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins &amp; Queen on Keilor Road, Niddrie. Image © bpmcorp.com.au</figcaption></figure><h2>Moreland</h2>

Moreland is a hub of activity in the mid-rise building range with a total of 28 projects strewn across postcodes 3055, 3056 and 3057: Brunswick West, Brunswick and Brunswick East respectively.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Building Type</th>
			<th scope="col">Planning Assessment</th>
			<th scope="col">Approved</th>
			<th scope="col">Registration &amp; Sales</th>
			<th scope="col">Under Construction</th>
			<th scope="col">Total</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Low-rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">5 projects, 253 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">3 projects, 131 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1 project, 142 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, no unit data</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">11 projects, 526+ units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Mid-rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">4 projects, 624 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">12 projects, 1481 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">7 projects, 315 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">5 projects, 690 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">28 projects , 3110 units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">High-rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1 project 232 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1 project, 232 units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Total</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">9 projects, 877 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">15 projects, 1612 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">9 projects, 689 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">7 projects, 690+ units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">40 projects, 3868 units</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<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/ar3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Wilkinson, Brunswick - Image © thewilkinson.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ar3.jpg?itok=_i-zJIc5" title="The Wilkinson, Brunswick - Image © thewilkinson.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Wilkinson, Brunswick - Image © thewilkinson.com.au</figcaption></figure><h2>Darebin</h2>

Approximately 40% of all the projects in Darebin that we're tracking on Apartments.com.au are located on the municipality's primary strip: High Street. According to REA Media's median house price data, to buy a house in Northcote would set you back just shy of a million dollars; it's no wonder there's a plethora of apartment projects in the area.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Building Type</th>
			<th scope="col">Planning Assessment</th>
			<th scope="col">Approved</th>
			<th scope="col">Registration &amp; Sales</th>
			<th scope="col">Under Construction</th>
			<th scope="col">Total</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Low-rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, 57 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">8 projects, 263 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">3 projects, 108 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">13 projects, 428 units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Mid-rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1 project, 102 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">11 projects, 1256 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">5 projects, 660 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">3 projects, 225 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">20 projects, 2243 units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">High-rise</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1 project, 209 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">1 project, 296 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">-</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, 505 units</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td class="rtecenter">Total</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">2 projects, 311 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">14 projects, 1609 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">13 projects, 923 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">6 projects, 333 units</td>
			<td class="rtecenter">35 projects, 3176 units</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<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/27d959_e875f7fa65c64a82a365ea5c720e2d67.jpg_srz_p_980_614_85_22_0.50_1.20_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sophia Apartments, Northcote - Image © sophiasapartments.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="360" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/27d959_e875f7fa65c64a82a365ea5c720e2d67.jpg_srz_p_980_614_85_22_0.50_1.20_0.jpg?itok=VKsjZvWW" title="Sophia Apartments, Northcote - Image © sophiasapartments.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sophia Apartments, Northcote - Image © sophiasapartments.com.au</figcaption></figure>With Apartments.com.au tracking near on 9,000 apartments ranging from planning assessment to under construction within these three municipalities, it's clear that Melbourne's inner north is an area of choice for apartment buyers and investors at the moment.

We feel that this trend will only intensify given the proximity all three LGA's to Melbourne's heart and the general abundance of land ripe for development along or adjacent to a number of major strips such as Sydney Road, High Street and Keilor Road.
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Alastair Taylor

Melbourne development numbers: Moonee Valley, Moreland & Darebin

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Here at Apartments.com.au we consider <a href="/news/anstey-in-development">Anstey precinct</a> in Brunswick to be the vanguard in terms of middle-ring, higher density urban regeneration. Wedged between the Upfield rail line and Sydney Road, the area until recently was dominated by low-rise industrial premises.

Anstey was subject to two articles on Apartments.com.au last year: <a href="/news/anstey-in-development">"Anstey in Development"</a> and <a href="/news/blockhead-concept-this-little-piggy-went-to-market-on-his-fixie">"This little piggy went to market (on his fixie)"</a>. While both articles were supportive of the areas higher density path, questions were raised over the distinct lack of associated greenery and street level activity.

<blockquote>
The lack of incorporated greenery through these new apartment developments is highly noticeable. Coupled with an already desolate streetscape, these new apartment developments add very little greenery resulting in a somewhat hostile environment at ground level.
<cite>Mark Baljak, <a href="/news/anstey-in-development">"Anstey in Development"</a> (May 14, 2013)</cite>
</blockquote>

Enter a game-changing current planning application covering both sides of Duckett Street within the precinct.

<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/Image10_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Overview of the abnormally shaped sites. Image © MOS Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image10_12.jpg?itok=DFJRQznf" title="Overview of the abnormally shaped sites. Image © MOS Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Overview of the abnormally shaped sites. Image © MOS Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Application highlights</h2>

<ul>
<li>12 Duckett Street, Brunswick: two development sites</li>
	<li>Design: MOS Architects</li>
	<li>Four buildings between 5-8 levels</li>
	<li>184 apartments with 1/2 BR options</li>
	<li>191 car parking spaces over 3 basement levels</li>
	<li>Seven home office spaces &amp; eight retail spaces totalling 1799 sq.m</li>
</ul>
<h2>A new urban Piazza</h2>

With two unusually shaped development sites on offer, MOS Architects have elected to utilise the space between both with a new urban piazza over Duckett Street. Pedestrian and car movements have been separated, active frontages and high site permeability included, green walls incorporated while building setbacks from the Upfield bike path creating a sense of widening.

<blockquote>
The piazza is integral to the success of this development. We identified our subject site as a significant contributor to the high quality emerging developments within the close proximity. Integration with the existing shared Upfield path is established as the site opens up to this path, promoting alternative movements and significant pedestrian activity.
<cite>MOS Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

<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/Image11_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Piazza, activated bike path and void signifying the rail line. Image © MOS Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_14.jpg?itok=Oe31-wHo" title="Piazza, activated bike path and void signifying the rail line. Image © MOS Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Piazza, activated bike path and void signifying the rail line. Image © MOS Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Enhancing the urban experience</h2>

Breese Street being the main thoroughfare through Anstey is little more than a transitional way at the moment; upon leaving your dwelling, you either walk or drive elsewhere. Not necessarily the worst outcome at this moment, but as more projects are completed/proposed, the population will eventually reach a point where this becomes unacceptable.

MOS Architects assert within the application that 12 Duckett Street will be a great place to work, live and experience. The firm has given heavy credence to retail/dining along an otherwise desolate cycling path with approximately 80 metres of active frontage, while also implementing two large first floor tenancies either side of Duckett Street fronting the path. Essentially dual/tri level glazed/open, active tenancies to the train line. Interesting!

As for the intended public realm landscaping, if the below examples provided within the report are anything to go by, they will be a quantum leap forward over anything currently provided within Anstey precinct. As MOS Architects state - and as is the case elsewhere - generous landscape design allows for a significant greenery to soften the sometimes harsh urban environment and make for a more pleasant external space.

<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/Image15_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Yes please! Image © MOS Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="300" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image15_6.jpg?itok=C9CgwPlo" title="Yes please! Image © MOS Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Yes please! Image © MOS Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

This planning application looks to be a panacea of sorts for Anstey precinct; it could be argued that 12 Duckett Street ticks many boxes that have been neglected to date by many developments in the area, leading me to liken Anstey to a little Southbank.

Ultimately though it shouldn't be in the hands of the developer/architect to create these spaces of their own volition, but rather adhere to a well formulated green/structure plan devised by Council. If every high-density project within Anstey delivered a little of what 12 Duckett proposes, the area would be the benchmark for urban renewal.

In due course Apartments.com.au will take a pictorial tour of Anstey precinct, highlighting its hits and misses, and why 12 Duckett Street is so important.
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Giving something back > 12 Duckett Street, Brunswick

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Brunswick East’s formerly derelict, heritage listed, Tip Top bakery site is seeing settlement on properties as a $215 million rejuvenation nears completion.
The site, acquired by Little Projects in 2009, is separated out into six buildings, all with bakery-appropriate names: Stables, Seeds, Silo, Rye, Grain and Malt; Rothelowman are the architects behind the design.
Rothelowman have been active across Melbourne recently, shaping South Yarra boutique development <a href="/news/vic/rothe-lowman-designed-lex-crowns-south-yarras-alexandra-avenue">Lex</a>, 29-apartment <a href="/expert-insights/buying/rothelowman-designed-mosaica-apartments-to-launch-in-melbourne">Maribyrnong development Mosaica</a>, the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/jazzed-up-residential-tower-strikes-key-with-melburnians">"piano" facade La Trobe Tower</a> that is set for 2016 completion and <a href="/expert-insights/buying/construction-on-rothelowman-designed-aqueous-kicks-off">Port Melbourne's Aqueous</a> that has an appropriately bubble-themed building.
Heritage elements have been retained for the <a href="https://livebrunswickeast.com.au/" target="_blank">Tip Top site</a>, including the art deco stables and brick façade.
The 1.2 hectare site is now a lifestyle precinct, including a childcare centre with 92 places in the Seeds building, that includes a specially designed rooftop outdoor space.
The base of the Seeds building will also house a new café and an office at its base, and there is a base site available in the Stables building for either a retailer or office.
Many of the buildings include large entertainer’s balconies and city views, while each has a separate street address and private access to their properties. The internal laneways were designed by Urbis.
Little Projects managing director Michael Fox said that the site is located between Edward and Weston Street and had been dormant for close to a decade.
“We have always seen Brunswick East as an up-and-coming suburb and we have now unlocked this potential through this project with settlements already underway. This is an exciting step forward for Melbourne’s North,” said Fox.
“We’re creating a community, so we consider the flow-on impact on the surrounding streets and wanted to create a precinct that adds value to the neighbourhood and that people want to be part of,” he said.
Settlements of the apartments commenced in April, with a few two-bedroom apartments remaining and some commercial leasing opportunities.
Two-bedroom apartments in Silo were selling for $539,000 plus.
Property Observer previously reported that <a href="/expert-insights/buying/a-not-so-little-project-for-brunswick-easts-tip-top-bakery-site">some of the apartments were being offered for rent</a>, with one-bedroom from $300 per week and two-bedroom from $420 per week, with a move-in from May.
The median price for <a href="/news">Brunswick East</a> units is $475,000, commanding a median advertised weekly rental price of $395, according to RP Data.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Brunswick East's $215 million Tip Top bakery redevelopment sees settlements take place

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Think Lygon Street, East Brunswick and the snapshot below is the vision many readers are familiar with: an evolving thoroughfare with all the bustle and colour expected of an area with a semi-bohemian feel and a rapidly increasing population.

<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/Img_3518.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Lygon Street, East Brunswick vista"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3518.jpg?itok=C3G_vMjr" title="The Lygon Street, East Brunswick vista" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Lygon Street, East Brunswick vista</figcaption></figure>Most would not be aware of the labyrinth of half blocks, alleys and cul-de-sac's that are mere metres from Lygon Street. Forming a <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Brunswick+East+VIC/@-37.7689734,144.9749164,16z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x6ad64494291c9ac5:0x5045675218cd600" target="_blank">snaking border between Brunswick and East Brunswick</a>, the laneways immediately west of Lygon Street (many with no signage) create an oasis of sorts from the hubbub near by.

Frequented by few, the back street network also provides an ideal canvas for some of Melbourne's better known street artists to ply their trade. It seems the artists are drawn to the area in part due to the presence of artist studios and the like, with Ann Street particularly strong. Whatever the case some of the artwork is incredible!

<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/Img_3429.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A typical Brunswick / East Brunswick back street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3429.jpg?itok=P8bCe0Ze" title="A typical Brunswick / East Brunswick back street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A typical Brunswick / East Brunswick back street</figcaption></figure>Enjoy the pictures below featuring artworks west of Lygon Street on the border of Brunswick and East Brunswick, taken on a fine Sunday afternoon.
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East of Brunswick, West of Lygon

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One of Australia's most exclusive bridal wear designers, Mariana Hardwick, has put the ground floor salon and first floor of her landmark Hardwick Building in Melbourne's Brunswick up for auction next month. 
Up for grabs is a ground floor bridal salon of about 375 square metres, a first floor atelier plus additional office spaces of around 875 square metre and air rights for a total of about 1,250 square metres.
The sale also includes Lot N, which is about 950 square metres and is located above the first floor of the main buildings. The inclusion of that lot, said selling agents Fitzroys, provided the purchaser with the opportunity to undertake further development in the future (STCA). 
The property is offered subject to a long lease over 1,065 square metres of the ground floor and first floor to Mariana Hardwick, potentially until 2032. The lease structure is 5+7+7 years from 1 August 2013.
Around 135 square metres of the first floor is leased to typographic studio Letterbox on a five year deal starting on 15 October 2013.
The current combine returned rental is estimated at $250,000.
The property will go under the hammer on 16 May through Fitzroys agent James Gregson.  
The history of the two-level building stretches back until 1907 when it began as the Hoopers Drapers store. After a succession of owners including Waltons and Spotlight, Mariana Hardwick acquired the Hoopers Building in 2005 as a new location for her salon. 
Gregson described property as a "high yielding investment" which was expected to return about 8-9% to the purchaser.
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kjiminez-eaYKfU7qd2

Brunswick ground floor salon of designer Mariana Hardwick on the auction block

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The City of Moreland has been busy drafting new zones made possible by the Planning Minister's state-wide planning zone <a href="http://www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning/theplanningsystem/improving-the-system/new-zones-for-victoria" target="_blank">reform</a> and has kicked off a mail &amp; online campaign to get its residents engaged on the proposed new residential zones their strategic planners have drafted.  At first glance. Moreland have been quite liberal in their proposal now open for public comment - click <a href="http://www.morelandplanning.com/" target="_blank">here</a> to view the dedicated site and full supporting document suite.

For convenience, here is the map of the proposed zone changes - copyright to City of Moreland, click for (much!) larger view.

<a href="http://www.morelandplanning.com/themes/bootstrap/img/ZoningMap.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/moreland_zoning_map.jpg?itok=TQ3ivNRY" style="width: 702px; height: 886px;" title="City of Moreland proposed zone changes"></a>

What are the new reformed planning zones?  With many thanks to the City of Moreland, they have produced a succinct two-pager outlining it clearly which can be viewed <a href="http://www.morelandplanning.com/themes/bootstrap/pdf/newzones/New%20Residential%20Zones%20Info.pdf" target="_blank">here</a> (PDF).  

Analysis

The backbone of Brunswick &amp; Coburg - Sydney Road - along with Glenroy &amp; Brunswick East (Lygon/Nicholson Streets) keep their own structure plans but interestingly in the south west of the Local Government Area (LGA), Brunswick West has a proposed widespread application of the new Residential Growth Zone intermixed with the strict Neighbourhood Residential zone furthermore protected with a heritage overlay.  From the southern boundary with the City of Melbourne on Park Street all the way to the intersection of Melville &amp; Moreland roads, the #55 tram and various cross-town bus routes look set to have patronage increase considerably should this new zoning be applied and redevelopment kick off soon after.  

I've <a href="/news/bus-routes-which-need-improvement-the-506" target="_blank">previously written</a> about the #506 bus route and should the proposed zone map look somewhat like the map Moreland have produced for public comment, the need to fix idiotic leftovers from the days when trams and buses competed for passengers will become even more apparent - more so north of Bell Street.  

Melville &amp; Albion Brunswick West, set to change under the proposed reformed zone implementation.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="400" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com.au/maps?dg=opt&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=h&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-37.759206,144.944789&amp;panoid=gJla4R3amfQJH0grVGdrYQ&amp;cbp=13,7.97,,0,1.23&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=-37.761127,144.944794&amp;spn=0.006684,0.01502&amp;z=16&amp;output=svembed" width="100%"></iframe> <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps?dg=opt&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=h&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-37.759206,144.944789&amp;panoid=gJla4R3amfQJH0grVGdrYQ&amp;cbp=13,7.97,,0,1.23&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=-37.761127,144.944794&amp;spn=0.006684,0.01502&amp;z=16" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a>

In the far south east of the LGA, Nicholson St - partly covered by an existing structure plan - appears to be headed for zoning consistency.  The land not covered by the existing structure plan along the corridor is set to have the residential growth zone applied which just so happens to be the same region the <a href="/news/transforming-australian-cities-a-must-read" target="_blank">Transforming Australian Cities</a> strategy used as one of its 3 case studies.

The Bell Street corridor west of Sydney Road, specifically around the terminus of the #55 tram in Pascoe Vale South looks set to be protected which is curious given Bell Street has one of the best middle-ring suburban bus routes (actually, multiple routes) as well as radial tram access.  With the advent of the Boondoggling East-West tunnel, if you were the State Government one would assume traffic through this corridor will reduce and therefore with a calmer road, building density could be increased creating a more appealing urban environment.  Maybe City of Moreland doesn't see it that way? 

Regardless, the video produced by Moreland (see their <a href="http://www.morelandplanning.com/" target="_blank">website</a>) talks about increasing development intensity around existing shopping strips as well as Public Transport corridors - Melville Road and Bell Street has both yet it is proposed to be protected under the Residential Neighbourhood Zone.

Melville &amp; Bell Pascoe Vale South - all the public transport infrastructure is here as well as existing retail space, yet is not set to receive new Residential Growth Zoning under the current Moreland proposal.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="400" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com.au/maps?dg=opt&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=h&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-37.739263,144.945708&amp;panoid=7FQtSVfAiMGz0zc2SDI8bg&amp;cbp=13,301.06,,0,8.62&amp;ll=-37.740532,144.94635&amp;spn=0.002664,0.00603&amp;z=17&amp;source=embed&amp;output=svembed" width="100%"></iframe> <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps?dg=opt&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=h&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-37.739263,144.945708&amp;panoid=7FQtSVfAiMGz0zc2SDI8bg&amp;cbp=13,301.06,,0,8.62&amp;ll=-37.740532,144.94635&amp;spn=0.002664,0.00603&amp;z=17&amp;source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a>

Up in the north of the LGA, Hadfield / West Street looks set to have the residential growth zone - where apartments/units up to 4 levels can be built. If you look at the current LGA map from Moreland on <a href="http://ptv.vic.gov.au/assets/Maps/Localities/PDFs/37_Moreland_LAM.pdf" target="_blank">PTV's site</a>, there's a single bus route which, like many all over the city, zig zags around back streets trying to do too many things at once.  Serious input from Spring Street and PTV is required to streamline the routes north of Bell Street - applying a zone which could result in near 250-350 people/hectare living in buildings up to 4 levels away from the primary public transport corridors and the existing bus system is going to require work.  

So Moreland residents, you can go here: <a href="http://www.morelandplanning.com/your-suburb">http://www.morelandplanning.com/your-suburb</a> enter your address and see the proposed changes relative to your address.

 
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Reformed planning zones: City of Moreland

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The majority of those residing in Brunswick are a special type. Equally at home swinging from tree to tree as they are crammed into a period cottage picking knits from others dread locked hair, they're not the type that take kindly to large apartment developments appearing on their doorstep.  For those who recall, 2009-1010 saw approval of a 14 level apartment tower at 284-294 Albert Street, within close proximity to kaleidoscopic Sydney Road.
Put forward by Brisbane-based developer Citimark, the then proposal was received with scorn and consternation from local residents given the proposal nearly doubled the structure plan envelope.  Upon approval, Moreland City Council came in for particular attention due to the community's anger and concern over the council's perceived lack of transparency and failure to notify residents adequately whilst leaving no right of appeal post  final approval. A summary of local residents concerns can be found <a href="http://brunswickresidentsunite.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/2010-06-24_brunswick-residents-meeting.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
Fast forward and 284-294 Albert Street has re-emerged in recent weeks with Citimark associate firm <a href="http://www.cbddevelopments.com/" target="_blank">CBD Development Group Pty Ltd</a> enlisting <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/" target="_blank">Rothe Lowman</a> Architects to deliver a revised tower.
<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/Imagealb11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Both schemes side by side. Image © Rothe Lowman"><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/Imagealb11.jpg?itok=KDeQqhwz" title="Both schemes side by side. Image © Rothe Lowman" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Whilst generally maintaining the same dimensions as the initial approved scheme, the recently submitted amended proposal seeks approval for a mixed use building with one basement level dedicated toward car parking, four concealed above ground car park levels surrounded by 21 retail outlets of varying sizes and uses, restaurants, office space and 236 apartments. 222 car parking spaces are catered for as are 199 bicycle spaces.
Rothe Lowman have endeavored to provide the building's facades with more articulation and in the process have relocated the residents garden from level 1 to level 9 and into direct sunlight.  Mercifully all apartments with bedrooms that relied upon borrowed light have been deleted whilst the northern and western facades feature shading devices where previously there were none.  Without going into mass detail the Rothe Lowman scheme is superior to the initial approved design.
What's likely to raise eyebrows are the nominated increases within the revised planning application for what are essentially same for same buildings.  Apartment numbers increase within the Rothe Lowman design by 28% while vehicle parking increases by 20% and motorbike spaces increase 75%.  Locals may have lost out in size and bulk argument but substantial increases in apartment and vehicle numbers are red rags to a bull as seen in the proceeding paragraphs.
<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/Imagealb2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revised 284-294 Albert Street, Brunswick in colour. Image © Rothe Lowman"><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/Imagealb2.jpg?itok=usuWArLF" title="The revised 284-294 Albert Street, Brunswick in colour. Image © Rothe Lowman" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Reported this week was news Moonee Valley Council recently refused the expansion of a landmark tower at 1 Ascot Vale Road, Flemington.  Directly opposite Flemington Racecourse, developer <a href="http://ozpropertygroup.com/" target="_blank">Oz Property Group</a> had sought to include 81 additional apartments and 48 additional car parking spaces within the approved envelope. The current scheme seen in the article slideshow below, was designed by <a href="http://www.dko.com.au/" target="_blank">dKO Architecture</a> and carries 219 apartments plus 92 apart-hotel rooms.
1 Ascot Vale Road Felmington was was the latest in a string of proposed developments for the site which included<a href="http://leader-news.whereilive.com.au/news/story/tower-trim-offer/" target="_blank"> this</a> interesting tree-laden tower some years ago.  Whilst the current design may have been approved for some time, the recent push by Oz Property Group for further changes managed to stir local emotions once more.  Quoted in the Moonee Valley Leader, Flemington Association vice-president stated "We were dismayed by the proposed changes and very relieved the council rejected it...It showed us what we've always known, that they're interested in maximising their profits. They want to crowd as much apartments in that development as possible."
Councillor Jim Cusack outlined the concerns Moonee Valley Council held over increased congestion, parking and infrastructure problems, stating "I appreciate that the developer thought 'if we're not changing the outside of the building it's okay'. Well, it's not okay."
Moral of the story - you can't stop progress but you sure can piss a few locals off in the process.  As with most things in life, finding a balance is the key.
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Incensing the locals...again!

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First off a proposal of huge proportions relative to its surrounds. Developer <a href="http://www.meydan.com.au/property-development/" target="_blank">Meydan Group</a> is running with the image below on their website for an intended mixed use development located in Fawkner. Seemingly on the western flank of the Hume Highway and near Gowrie Station, the proposal seeks a 15 level mixed use development with retail components, office space and 120+ apartments included. On a stretch of the Hume dominated by car dealerships and associated trades, yet ripe for redevelopment, a 15 level complex would surely make a statement - time will tell.

<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/Fawkner.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fawkner proposal. Image © Meydan 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/Fawkner.jpg?itok=4ggC-8rb" title="Fawkner proposal. Image © Meydan Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Closer to the big smoke and a swag of residential towers have been approved by Melbourne City Council of late. Among them a 17 level, 296 apartment development at 28-38 Pearl River Road, Docklands which gained approval on June 28th, as did a 16 level, 240 apartment development nearby at 3-43 Waterfront Way, Docklands. A final planning permit was issued for <a href="/buildings/33-north-33-racecourse-road-north-melbourne" target="_blank">Babylon Apartments</a> located at 33-39 Racecourse Road, North Melbourne during May while the nearby proposed 66-apartment <a href="/new-apartments/15-17-racecourse-road-north-melbourne" target="_blank">15-17 Racecourse Road</a> appears in the UrbanMelbourne.info database for the first time. May 30th saw <a href="/new-apartments/coventry-haus-33-coventry-street-southbank">33 Coventry Street, </a>Southbank given notice of a decision to grant a permit while the nearby development at 25-27 Coventry Street, Southbank revived its final permit also during May. More on these projects in due course.

Following up on this <a href="/news/the-wilson-street-microcosm" target="_blank">article</a> posted early last month, Salta Properties via SJB Planning have in recent days formally lodged plans with Stonnington for 31-41 Wilson Street, South Yarra. The image below by Fraher Design 3D depicts the Rothe Lowman-designed complex in situ along Wilson Street. Seeking approval for 88 apartments over 9 levels, more information on the project can be found <a href="/buildings/essence-35-wilson-street-south-yarra" target="_blank">here</a>.

<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/Image2666_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="31-41 Wilson Street, South Yarra. Image © FraherDesign 3D"><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/Image2666_0.jpg?itok=2_GaQnnl" title="31-41 Wilson Street, South Yarra. Image © FraherDesign 3D" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Elsewhere in South Yarra, Melbourne High School have lodged plans for an underutilised piece of land at 661-663 Chapel Street. Designed by Bird de la Coeur, the four level building seen below will house an education centre and student accommodation, with retail fronting Chapel Street. This proposal is in line with developer Michael Yates' plans for the adjoining site, the outline of which can also be seen below. Initially submitted with two schemes, Michael Yates will seemingly pursue the lesser of the two proposals, details of which can be found <a href="/news/take-it-either-way-661-chapel-street-planning-application" target="_blank">here</a>.

<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/Image5651.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne High School proposal. Image © Bird de la Coeur"><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/Image5651.jpg?itok=n3K5tyxb" title="Melbourne High School proposal. Image © Bird de la Coeur" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Moving to Brunswick now and two separate planning applications seek to continue the Anstey in development theme as outlined in this <a href="/news/anstey-in-development" target="_blank">article</a>. 26 Breese Street is a seven level complex yielding 64 apartments while 216 Albion Street nearby is seeking approval for an eight level apartment complex. Together these developments would add well over 100 apartments to an already booming pocket of Melbourne. West Brunswick hasn't been left behind either with a proposal for a nine level apartment complex with three levels of basement car parking at 1-5 Olive York Way. It would sit opposite the recently completed, seven level 2-6 Olive York Way developed by National Sterling which yielded 140 apartments.

Finally Fraher Design 3D feature again, having produced this image of the Mayven development at 56-58 St Georges Rd, Northcote. A nice new development right next to the Melbourne Anarchist Club - enough to put a smirk on this urbanist's face.

<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/RENDER001_Exterior_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mayven - Image © FraherDesign 3D"><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/RENDER001_Exterior_01.jpg?itok=vGt1e-GI" title="Mayven - Image © FraherDesign 3D" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Watch out later this week as I take a look at one of the best planning applications I've seen for many, many a year - sure to impress!
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Lucky number 13 - new developments in the pipeline

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If I were to simply mention Lygon Street, most would automatically assume I was talking about Little Italia in Carlton. Approximately 2km North of the cafés, pizzerias and gelato shoppes of Carlton, Lygon Street, East Brunswick has turned into a nightlife and development hotspot. Truth be known Lygon Street is the border of Brunswick and East Brunswick however many of the locals simply refer to both sides of the street as East Brunswick, much like Smith Street is the border between Fitzroy and Collingwood and "Smith St Collingwood" is the generally accepted locale reference, 

The 1.2 km stretch of Lygon Street intersecting with Brunswick Road to the south and Albion Street to the north is a hotbed of bars &amp; pubs, wholesale outlets, restaurants, brothels, unique retailers, derelict buildings, some remnant light industry - you name it, it's got it. Of particular interest to the myself and other UM staff members are the breweries and craft beer venues that have recently flourished, yet the area is also seeing substantial interest from developers keen to leverage off this neighbourhood's appeal and as UrbanMelbourne does, we've tracked all major projects from proposal through to construction.

UrbanMelbourne earlier this year touched upon the <a href="/news/transforming-australian-cities-a-must-read" target="_blank">Transforming Australian Cities</a> strategy that aims to focus higher-density development along existing public transport corridors and the strategy maintains new development should be low to mid-rise.  Blessed with 2 tram routes running on the one track - the #1 and #8 - Lygon Street sees very high frequency of service between Moreland Road (further north) to  Swanston Street where the two lines merge with others tram services at Melbourne University.  Throw in a healthy mix of cross-town bus routes on key East-West arterials, <a href="/news/bus-routes-which-need-improvement-the-506" target="_blank">although many of the individual bus routes could be improved</a>, an existing &amp; thriving retail sector and you have a recipe which can sustain a higher residential and working population.

As the gallery (page bottom) shows, many recent builds and new apartments are forming a street wall approximately 3-4 levels high, with setbacks forming small-scale towers beyond - this is important as it demonstrates we can build more density into existing areas whilst maintaining streetscape sun penetration.

To date Lygon Street has mainly attracted residential development, but one wonders if this will always remain the case given the excellent connectivity and general appeal of the area.  Below is a list of the projects UrbanMelbourne is monitoring and no doubt there'll be many more to come over the years.

<a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Upper Lygon - 457-459 Lygon Street.</a>

Under Construction

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/Building%20Exterior%20-%20Low%20Res.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 487px;">

 

<a href="http://urbanmelbourne.info/projects/moreland/kale-apartments-455-lygon-st-brunswick#content" target="_blank">Kale Apartments - 455 Lygon Street.</a>

Registration &amp; Sales

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/2010294544_1_FS.JPG" style="width: 710px; height: 600px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/stratus-360-lygon-street-brunswick-east" target="_blank">Stratus - 360 Lygon Street.</a>

Under construction

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/00-RENDER001-Exterior_Crn-Victoria-Lygon_001.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 611px;">

 

The East - 280 Lygon Street.

Registration &amp; Sales

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/front%20facade%20web.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 449px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/joulia-200-lygon-street-brunswick-east" target="_blank">Joulia - 200 Lygon Street</a>

Under Construction

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/22_F1002064C_119.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 473px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/tip-top-brunswick-170-edward-street-brunswick-east" target="_blank">Tip Top - 170 Edward Street</a>

Under Construction

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/image-tools.php__3.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 473px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/seamstress-11-13-lygon-street-brunswick-east">11-13 Lygon Street</a>

Approved

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/Lygon_03_4ea5eff92f20f.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 395px;">

 

<a href="/buildings/8-lygon-street-brunswick-east" target="_blank">6-20 Lygon Street</a>

Approved

<img alt="" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/project-renders/residential-multi-2_src_3_0.jpg" style="width: 710px; height: 459px;">

 

Below is a gallery of some recent construction images taken by UrbanMelbourne.info staff on Lygon Street, East Brunswick
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