Construction is now underway at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/cumulus-grand-villas-carrara-17-baltimore-court-carrara-qld-4211">Cumulus Grand Villas</a> in Carrara, with all stages fully funded as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/venturecrowd-property-projects">VentureCrowd</a> progresses its 59-residence gated community on an elevated ridgeline overlooking 100 hectares of natural savanna.

The commencement marks a key milestone for the Gold Coast project, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a> and being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/devcon">Devcon Property Group</a>, at a time when buyers are placing greater emphasis on delivery certainty and builder track record.

With Devcon active in South East Queensland since 1993 and having delivered more than 1,000 homes, the team is positioning Cumulus as a fully financed, under-construction offering in a market where risk mitigation has become a central consideration for off-the-plan purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360496]

Located at 17 Baltimore Court, Cumulus Grand Villas comprises 59 three- and four-bedroom villas across four collections, Skyline, Canopy, Savanna and Broadview. Pricing starts from $1,455,000, with completion of the first stage targeted for Q4 2026.

Across the four collections, each design represents an expansive and thoughtfully considered offering. The Broadview provides additional flexibility within its floorplan, incorporating a multipurpose room or optional additional bedroom, and is priced from $1,895,000.&nbsp;

Configured across two levels, the four-bedroom villas feature two master bedrooms with private ensuites, as well as a multipurpose room (MPR), supporting intergenerational living, guest accommodation, or the creation of a dedicated retreat space.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360497]

The main living areas are positioned on the ground floor, while the bedrooms are located upstairs, a configuration that promotes both family separation and connected living. All villas include a second master suite on the ground floor, reinforcing the project’s focus on flexibility and long-term adaptability.

That adaptability was central to BDA Architecture’s design approach. The team sought to create a sophisticated, low-maintenance product that makes the most of the site’s elevation and outlook while responding to evolving household needs. Expansive glazing, open-plan interiors and private outdoor areas draw in natural light and frame views towards the savanna, hinterland and Broadbeach skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360470]

VentureCrowd Director of Property David Whitting said the project responds to a growing group of buyers reassessing what premium living on the Gold Coast looks like.

Flexible floorplans have proven particularly relevant for purchasers aged between 40 and 65, including next home buyers, downsizers and investors. The inclusion of dual master suites in the Broadview design, along with options for a downstairs MPR or guest bedroom, allows homes to adapt as family dynamics shift, whether accommodating older parents, adult children, or extended stays.

Across the community, villas are specified with European appliances and premium fixtures and fittings, alongside double garages and landscaped private areas. The gated enclave includes number plate recognition entry, reinforcing a focus on security and exclusivity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360474]

Lifestyle amenity is anchored by the Infinity Terrace, an elevated communal space incorporating a 20m heated pool, alfresco zones and barbecue facilities, designed as a shared retreat within the neighbourhood. A two-acre private nature reserve with walking trails and rehabilitated bushland further integrates the development with its savanna-edge setting, reflecting a broader masterplan initiative to restore native vegetation and habitat corridors.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/carrara-qld-4211">Carrara</a>’s positioning continues to attract attention from prestige buyers seeking proximity to the coast without beachfront pricing. The suburb offers access to major retail centres including Pacific Fair and Robina Town Centre, is around 15 minutes from Broadbeach, and benefits from connectivity via the M1 to Brisbane and the Gold Coast Airport.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135663]

Joel Robinson

VentureCrowd’s Cumulus Grand Villas in Carrara advances with construction underway

Joint venture partners <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> are officially launching the third and final residential stage at their landmark $350 million harbourfront precinct, Putney Wharf, with The Residences representing the final opportunity to secure a new home within this rare waterfront destination.

Strong demand has already been established across the earlier stages of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-residences-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a>, with more than 50 per cent sold ahead of this final release. The Residences will introduce a selection of the precinct’s most premium apartments, many of which were deliberately reserved for this concluding stage.

Located at 20 Waterview Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a> NSW, the completed precinct will comprise 67 residences, including 18 terraces and 49 apartments, alongside five retail tenancies and a 36-berth marina.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=1338]

Developed alongside partners Phoenix Property Investors and Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Putney Wharf occupies a prized 300-metre stretch of absolute waterfront and incorporates the historic former Halvorsen’s Boatshed. The precinct connects directly to surrounding parklands via a landscaped foreshore walkway and a large, landscaped podium linking both sides of the development to the adjoining foreshore parklands.

The Residences comprise two newly built, three-storey apartment buildings delivering a boutique collection of 30 generously proportioned waterfront apartments. Designed to capture harbour outlooks, natural light and cooling breezes, The Residences balance architectural refinement with relaxed, low-maintenance living.

Architecturally designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the apartments continue the cohesive design language seen across the broader precinct. A refined palette of light and dark materials, softer-toned stone and neutral, earthy finishes reflect the surrounding landscape and harbour setting. Interiors feature painted timber veneers, tactile joinery, timber flooring to living spaces and 100 per cent natural wool carpets in bedrooms, creating warm and sophisticated homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362525]

Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen, said the release of the final residential stage marks an important milestone for the project.

“Putney Wharf brings together everything we’ve learned over more than 25 years of development,” Mr Brown said. “It respects the site’s extraordinary maritime history while delivering contemporary homes that connect people directly to the harbour.

The Residences offer the rare combination of low-maintenance apartment living, waterfront outlooks with beautiful sunset views, and the convenience of retail and amenity at your doorstep. For boating enthusiasts, the opportunity to secure a private marina berth completes a truly unique Sydney harbourfront lifestyle.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291197]

PERIFA Managing Director and Co-Founder Fabrizio Perilli added that the diversity of housing across the precinct has been central to the project’s success.

“Whether it’s the heritage Halvorsen’s apartments, the Waterview Terraces or now The Residences, Putney Wharf offers a range of homes that respond to different lifestyles, all united by an unrivalled harbourfront setting,” Perilli said. “This is a precinct that will add lasting value to the Putney community.”

Managing project marketing and sales, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Partner Tim Rees said the final release has already attracted strong demand reflecting the project’s unique harbourfront position and the success of earlier stages.

“Following the strong response to both the Halvorsen’s Boatshed residences and the Waterview Terraces, The Residences represent the final chance to secure a new home within this tightly held waterfront precinct,” Rees said. “Buyers are drawn to the rare combination of absolute harbour frontage, parkside living and genuine architectural quality.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240]

Putney Wharf is a one-of-a-kind mixed-use destination, delivering an exclusive residential offering alongside waterfront dining, retail and a 36-berth marina designed to the latest Australian Standards, accommodating vessels up to 18 metres and helping address Sydney Harbour’s ongoing marina shortage.

The precinct will include five retail tenancies and a prominent waterfront jetty area fronting the retail village, creating an activated harbourfront destination for residents and visitors alike.

Residents will enjoy direct access to lush harbourfront parklands, a public foreshore walkway and landscaped podium gardens connecting the development to the surrounding waterfront reserve. Construction across the Putney Wharf precinct is expected to be completed by Q2 2027.

Sales of The Residences officially launch this weekend, with the display suite open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 12pm at Putney Wharf. Visitors are invited to enjoy a complimentary coffee while touring The Residences and experiencing the Putney Wharf lifestyle firsthand.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Final Harbourfront release in Putney Wharf launches this weekend

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/draycon">Draycon Building</a> is nearing completion of Boutique Chevron Island, a 42-apartment development on the northern end of Chevron Island at 17–19 Parneno Street, with a limited-time offer of fully furnished apartments available.

Now more than 90 per cent complete, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/boutique-chevron-island-17-19-parneno-chevron-island-qld-4217">Boutique</a> has been shaped by one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held island addresses, where riverfront outlooks and walkable access to Surfers Paradise converge.

For Draycon Building Managing Director Howard Dabit, the appeal of the site was immediate.

“I knew it was a good site as soon as I saw it,” Dabit said.

“The position and location on the north end of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>, the way the river swirls around the site basically from the north to the east, it feels like the site is surrounded by the water. The height that we’ve got and the aspect looking north is beautiful. Eighty per cent of the apartments are looking north so they get that drenching sunlight coming in.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89709 project_image_fid=360922]

That northern orientation places the development within a stretch of Chevron Island defined by open river aspects and skyline views, while remaining embedded in the suburb’s established village setting.

Chevron Island has increasingly drawn owner-occupiers seeking centrality without the intensity of high-rise beachfront living. Positioned at the geographical centre of the Gold Coast, the island offers direct access to both the beach and key cultural infrastructure while retaining a neighbourhood-scale character.

Connected by bridge to Surfers Paradise, Chevron Island offers walkable access to beaches, riverfront parklands and a revitalised foreshore boulevard animated by walkers and cyclists throughout the day. The Pacific Ocean is only minutes away, reinforcing the suburb’s dual river-and-surf identity.

At the same time, Thomas Drive forms the spine of the island’s village life, delivering cafés, wine bars, casual dining and everyday services within easy reach. Independent grocers, wellness operators and neighbourhood retailers contribute to a community atmosphere that remains distinct from the vertical scale of the beachfront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89709 project_image_fid=360915]

In the opposite direction, the Green Bridge links directly to HOTA – Home of the Arts – placing galleries, performance venues and parklands within walking distance. Weekly markets and major exhibitions draw visitors from across the region, while residents return to a quieter residential pocket at day’s end.

Public transport, including nearby bus routes and the G:link light rail corridor along the coastal spine, strengthens connectivity north and south. Griffith University, the Gold Coast University Hospital precinct and established private schools such as The Southport School are all within a short drive.

Ongoing investment across Surfers Paradise, HOTA and the broader Southport corridor has elevated amenity while preserving Chevron Island’s comparatively low-rise residential character. It is this balance, walkable village atmosphere paired with metropolitan-scale infrastructure, that continues to differentiate the suburb from higher-density beachfront precincts.

Boutique comprises just 42 residences, designed to maximise river and skyline outlooks within this tightly held island setting.

Boutique Chevron Island is slated for completion in April 2026, with prices starting from $1,220,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=89709]

Draycon Building’s Boutique Chevron Island places 42 residences at the heart of the Gold Coast

Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> has secured planning approval for a $300 million residential development in Lindfield, marking the company’s second project on Sydney’s North Shore and its first on the Upper North Shore.

Located on Beaconsfield Parade and designed by DKO Architecture, the state significant development comprises three buildings of up to 10 storeys and will include 399 residences, including 59 affordable homes and 40 adaptable homes.

Residences will range in size from one, two and three bedrooms, with two-bedroom apartments accounting for over 60 per cent of the product make-up. Residents will have access to a broad suite of amenities, including a wellness area, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, a pool, a gym, a community room and a golf simulator.

In line with Deicorp’s long-standing focus on creating transit-oriented communities, the project is located just 260 metres from the Lindfield Train Station, reinforcing its role in delivering well-connected housing close to established infrastructure, retail and local services.

The inclusion of affordable and adaptable housing supports greater diversity within the local market, while the mix of apartment types responds to demand from downsizers, young professionals and families seeking access to the Upper North Shore.

Deicorp Founder Fouad Deiri OAM said the approval represents an important milestone for both the company and the suburb

“This approval allows us to deliver well-designed homes in a location that is already supported by strong transport and community infrastructure," Deiri said.

"Our focus is on creating places that integrate into their surroundings and provide long-term value for residents, and the broader Lindfield community. Being within walking distance of the station ensures this project supports sustainable growth in the right locations."

Across its portfolio, Deicorp currently has 4,703 apartments under construction, playing a leading role in shaping connected, liveable communities across Sydney.

Its expanding portfolio of Metro-linked developments includes Tallawong Village, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> in Five Dock, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hyde-metropolitan-sydney-133-141-liverpool-street-sydney-nsw-2000">Hyde Metropolitan</a> in Sydney CBD, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/falcon-alexander-crows-nest-8-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Falcon &amp; Alexander</a> in Crows Nest and Showground Village, Castle Hill.

Deicorp purchased the Beaconsfield Paradise site last year. Construction is scheduled to commence in Q2 of 2026 and will be completed in 2029.

Deicorp expands portfolio to nearly 5,000 apartments with Lindfield project

In a joint venture with The Trump Organization, Australia developer Altus Property Group has announced plans to bring a Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower to the Gold Coast, marking the first Trump-branded project in Australia.

"Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, Gold Coast is our first official project in Australia and reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class luxury experiences in iconic locations around the world," Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization, said.

"This development exemplifies the Trump brand’s dedication to quality, sophistication, and unmatched service, and we are thrilled to bring this vision to the vibrant Gold Coast community."

The 91-storey building, which will become the tallest in Australia at 335 metres, will feature a&nbsp;285-room luxury hotel bearing the trademark Trump logo. It will also include 272 luxury residential apartments, a three-level podium with an exclusive Beach Club, and over 3,400 sqm of premium commercial, retail, and dining space, revitalizing the central Surfers Paradise precinct.

“Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, Gold Coast will be a truly unique offering in the Australian market, bringing the prestige and allure of a world-class luxury brand,"&nbsp;Altus founder and chief executive David Young said.

"Altus Property Group is proud of its track record in delivering landmark developments across Australia, and our expertise ensures this project will be an outstanding success."

Trump Hotel heads for the Gold Coast to become Australia's tallest building

Commercial Development

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The Byron Bay Holiday Village located at 116-118 Jonson Street, one of the last multi-storey developable sites in the heart of Byron Bay, is to be offered for sale.
The 4,282 sqm Local Centre zoned property will be marketed by John Musca of JLL Hotels &amp; Hospitality in conjunction with Elliott O’Shea of JLL Metropolitan Investments, via a formal expressions of interest campaign.
Owned by the same family for over 37 years the business currently operates as the Byron Bay Holiday Village Backpackers with a capacity of up to 200 guests and was the first purpose-built backpackers in Australia when built in 1983.
Having sold the Beach Hotel in Byron for $104 million Mr Musca noted that the measured approach to new development has assisted in maintaining the areas unique coastal culture, whilst also amplifying the interest in those last remaining sites offering favourable zoning.
Byron’s commercial focus is continuing to extend along Jonson Street where the recently completed Mercato complex will eventually be flanked by a proposed 4-star hotel on the former Woolworths site and a new hospitality and retail complex planned for 90 - 96 Jonson Street. That 5390 sqm property was sold for $29.8 million in January this year, representing $5,528 per sqm.
Mr O’Shea expects that interested groups will appreciate this short-term income strategy however the highest and best use for the site is likely to be development.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Byron Bay Holiday Village set for sale

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Fender Katsalidis’ design for the Liverpool's tallest commercial tower and its surrounding redevelopment has received approval.
The project, which will be developed by Macky Corp, is known as Liverpool Quarter.
It will feature a 23-storey curved tower situated on the corner of Scott and Bigge streets.
The mixed-use project comprises 25,000 square metres of new office space, 1,500 square metres of co-working, 640 square metres of retail including a refurbished 1888 Hotel.
In addition to the 23-storey tower, the project comprises the refurbishment of the existing three-storey heritage New Commercial Hotel along with the construction of a two-storey building known as The Stables.
1,200 square metres of open space will act as the heart of the precinct.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/30/Liverpool%20Quarter%202.JPG" alt="">
Fender Katsalidis director Mark Curzon said, “Liverpool Quarter will set the standard for the best premium office space and public open space in this amazing emerging city."
The project is set to cater to the growing commercial demands of the area, particularly with the Western Sydney Airport approval, while the location also provides connectivity to the Sydney CBD via the adjacent Liverpool train station.
Construction of the building is expected to commence in late 2019 and completion is slated for late 2021.
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Plans green-lighted for Liverpool’s tallest commercial tower

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A project <a href="/news/talking-the-talk-386-412-william-street-melbourne">first covered by Urban.com.au way back in 2013</a> has found a new purpose, with owner MIT Group Holdings joining the growing chorus of developers adapting their development intentions to commercial use.

Spanning a 4,000 sqm site at 386-412 William Street on the northern cusp of Melbourne's CBD, the development to be known simply as '388 William' will see a change of use from residential to commercial, with the original hotel component retained as per approved plans.

Already this month we have seen Charter Hall apply for a <a href="/news/charter-hall-unveils-1-5-billion-redevelopment-of-555-collins-street">dual commercial tower scheme across 555 Collins Street and 55 King Street</a> on the western edge of the Hoddle Grid, superseding a failed residential scheme.

Founders of MIT Group Holdings, Shesh Ghale and his wife Jamuna Gurung have retained Elenberg Fraser as the architects for 388 William, with only minor cosmetic changes to the endorsed design and change of use sought. This is to allow for the creation of contiguous flexible floorplates of up to 2,800 sqm.

<blockquote>
"We are just in-filling between the towers for the bigger floor plates required by offices, so we're working in anticipation of approval."

- Shesh Ghale, via the <a href="http://www.afr.com/leadership/afr-lists/rich-list/how-the-rich-invest-shesh-ghale-and-the-stroll-that-saved-him-millions-20190204-h1atyf">AFR</a>
</blockquote>

Overall, 20,000 sqm NLA of A-grade office space will be provided across levels 2-10 with MIT Holdings seeking tenants for the office space - Colliers International and JLL have been charged with the leasing campaign.

A five-star hotel with 290 keys will occupy the remaining floors above, while retail will also be provided to the lower floors within the shell of the existing former Mazda dealership.

<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/388w_office.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="A reimagined 388 William Street. Image: Sinclair Brook" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="487" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/388w_office.jpg?itok=od17WXD8" title="A reimagined 388 William Street. Image: Sinclair Brook" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A reimagined 388 William Street. Image: Sinclair Brook</figcaption></figure>388 William will be targeting a 5 Star Green Star Rating and 5 Star NABERS Energy Rating and featuring a high-tech building management system. Tenants in the building will also have access to the hotel facilities which are set to include a pool, gym, Rooftop Bar, amongst others.

Sinclair Brook has been appointed to manage the project on behalf of MIT with site works expected to commence this year and targeting a 2022 completion. 
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Laurence Dragomir

388 William joins the growing chorus of office developments in Melbourne

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MAB’s recently completed commercial development - CubeOne - has attracted local business owners seeking to capitalise on the building's central location, excellent transport links and Narre Warren's thriving commercial precinct. According to MAB, the Narre Warren business precinct is within Australia’s 12th fastest growing city, with a projected population increase of almost 200,000 by 2041. 

Located at 55 Victor Crescent in Melbourne's South-East, the $10m building has been designed by architects Watson Young to accommodate 5,000 sqm of strata office space across four-storeys, while promoting walkability and a sense of community.

CubeOne features 40 strata office suites upwards of 45 sqm capable of accommodating a 300 strong workforce, in addition to a standalone restaurant tenancy,156 secure carparks, and expansive landscaped areas.. An illuminated external façade provides businesses with a strong visibility.

Danny Lavigne, Managing Director of Blynx Insurance Services, is one of the first businesses to move into CubeOne. Lavigne’s company services many of those who live in the local area, taking advantage of the proximity to Fountain Gate Shopping Centre, the City of Casey Municipal Offices and nearby walking trails and cycle tracks.

Ashwin Pandit, owner of Mocha Mojo Café &amp; Lounge in Berwick, is another local business owner who made the decision to purchase into CubeOne. He was looking to expand his business, opening a new site close to his existing cafe to minimise commuting hours and mobilise existing staff. His new café, Butlers Kitchen at CubeOne, will open early 2019 and includes an outdoor seating area, capable of hosting up to 100 patrons.

<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/mab_cube-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The four storey building offers 5,000 sqm of strata office space in Melbourne's South East. Image: MAB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mab_cube-2.jpg?itok=_cbtWFSS" title="The four storey building offers 5,000 sqm of strata office space in Melbourne's South East. Image: MAB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The four storey building offers 5,000 sqm of strata office space in Melbourne's South East. Image: MAB</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
CubeOne follows a trend in commercial property developments decentralising Melbourne and providing businesses with affordable commercial offerings, reduced travel time and greater work/life balance.

We’re seeing record sales at CubeOne because of a growing need for spaces outside the central city where small business owners can invest in their own premises in an environment that is conducive to a modern, mobile and integrated lifestyle.

With limited CubeOne suites remaining, we’re seeing interest from a range of small businesses including accountants, medical professionals and investors who wish to own their own office and take greater control of their business investments.

- Michael Martin, Director Business Parks at MAB
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Business is booming in the South East and there’s not many office spaces that provide a high-quality and affordable offering. The office space is not only a great environment for employees and clients, but I have confidence there’s a huge business opportunity in the area, which is why I chose to invest, rather than lease.

I think CubeOne will provide greater control over the future of my venture and we’ve got the capacity to grow and accommodate another 10 staff. It was essential to have a space that would provide future expansion and flexibility over time, that was convenient for employees to commute to and would be attractive to future employees looking for greater work, life balance. 

CubeOne certainly gives us all of that, allowing us to avoid the daily city traffic grind and we have all the amenities like parkland, cafes and secure parking right on our doorstep.

- Danny Lavigne, Managing Director of Blynx Insurance Services
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
With the local economy growing and not many business park cafes catering to the growing number of local office workers, I jumped at the chance to invest.

- Ashwin Pandit, owner of Mocha Mojo Café &amp; Lounge in Berwick
</blockquote>
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MAB’s CubeOne attracts businesses to Narre Warren’s burgeoning commercial hub

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The NSW Government has decided not to proceed with a proposal by Gap Bluff Hospitality to build a commercial function and wedding centre at South Head.
Gap Bluff Hospitality had sought to re-use six buildings within Gap Bluff, South Head, Camp Cove and Green Point precinct in Sydney Harbour National Park.
The former Officers’ Mess and Armoury at Gap Bluff and Watsons Bay would have become function centres, catering for up to 400 people a day and short stay accommodation would have been available at Gap Cottage, Gap Bluff; Green Point Cottage, Green Point; 33 Cliff Street, Watsons Bay; and Constable’s Cottage, Camp Cove.
Environment minister Gabrielle Upton said the decision followed strong community opposition to the proposal. 
“There has been significant community opposition to the proposal and as a result I have decided the proposal should not proceed,” Ms Upton said.
“The community’s voice has been heard loud and clear. In all 1,531 submissions were received, of which 1,505 were opposed to the proposal, with 12 deemed neutral and 14 in support. 
Upton said any future plan for Gap Bluff must include strong collaboration between the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the local community.
The Liberal candidate for Wentworth Dave Sharma said he was "very pleased" to see the development proposal for South Head being rejected.
"It was inconsistent with the heritage, community and recreation values of this iconic and historic site," he said.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

NSW Government decides against South Head function and wedding centre

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The South Australia State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP) has given its approval for Starfish Development’s land subdivision application for Dock One.
It forms the first phase of the project, comprising townhouses and apartments.
Starfish is billed as the first developer to reach this stage in the re-invigoration of Port Adelaide.
Starfish managing director Damon Nagel said the plans envisaged a reduced number of cars, turning the main street through the centre of the development allowing a lineal park and communal garden.
It has opted to retain the former Marine and Harbours building for residential and commercial use, along with the old Customs House.
Remediation and early earthworks have already begun on site and scheduled to be completed by the end of the year when Starfish plans to release the townhouses and apartments onto the market.
Work on roads and other infrastructure is expected to commence early next year, before construction on the townhouses in the second quarter.
The new train link to Dock One will give access to the city centre.
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Starfish Developments given subdivision approval for Port Adelaide residential project 

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The expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and broader South Wharf precinct is complete, marking the first expansion of an operating public-private partnership in Victoria.
The $350 million project by the Victorian Government in partnership with Plenary and its private sector partners includes a 20,000 square metre expansion of MCEC, the new 347-room Novotel Melbourne South Wharf and new 1,150-space multi-level car park.
The MCEC is Australia’s largest convention and exhibition space.
Acting Premier of Victoria James Merlino and Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren joined Plenary Chairman John O’Rourke, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust Chair John Brumby and MCEC Chief Executive Peter King yesterday to tour the centre.
The expansion is fully-connected and integrated with the existing MCEC buildings and include 9,000 square metres of flexible expansion space, a 1,000-seat multi-purpose theatre and a gala banquet room.
Around 700 people were employed to work on this project, including up to 60 apprentices. Now completed, the expanded precinct will add more than 900 ongoing jobs.
Plenary Group Chairman John O’Rourke said the project will increase business and tourism activity in the precinct, ensuring it remains Australia’s number one business tourism and events destination.
“We planned for this expansion when designing the Melbourne Convention Centre a decade ago, so it is great to be finally realising what we envisioned,” O’Rourke said.
“As long-term investors in the precinct, Plenary was perfectly placed to deliver the expansion, ensuring MCEC continued its success and that South Wharf remained a food, beverage and retail destination.”
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust Chair John Brumby said he was proud of the project and the benefits it will bring for MCEC’s customers, the City of Melbourne and the State of Victoria.
“A project like this involves a lot of different people and I think the success of this building is testament to the strong engagement among key stakeholders throughout planning and construction,” Brumby said.
The Victorian Government provided $205 million for the MCEC expansion, and Plenary and its partners invested more than $150 million in the hotel and car park.
Plenary was the sponsor, investor and financial arranger for both the expansion project and the original 2009 Melbourne Convention Centre development, and plays a key role in the ongoing asset management of MCEC.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Melbourne's South Wharf precinct and Convention and Exhibition Centre complete

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A Gisborne farm has been sold for $61.1 million to the Melbourne developer ID Land.
It was a 75 ha property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-gisborne-502701826" target="_blank">39 Willowbank Road </a>(pictured above) which will become new housing.
Savills agent Julian Heatherich said the owners who had farmed cattle on the property were retiring and downsizing to a smaller home.
The buyer will seek to develop 600 housing lots along with a primary school, waterways and parks.
 
<div class="wp-caption"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/7/6/Gisborne.jpg" alt=""></div>
Buying interest came from across Australia, China and South East Asia, resulting in the strongest development sale the Macedon Ranges region had ever seen.
“We received 15 offers and 160 requests for information for the property,” he told the local Leader community newspaper.
The property is surrounded by new residential estates, including Gisborne Fields and Golden Views, and is serviced by a train station, multiple bus routes and the Calder Freeway.
ID Land is a major property developer with projects across Melbourne, including Truganina and Wollert, and Geelong.
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Savills sell 75ha Gisborne farm for $61.1 million

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Following the introduction of new planning and density controls in Melbourne's Central City Zone last year, architeePlan Melbourne forecasts Melbourne's population to hit 10 million by 2051, carrying with it an additional 1.5 million jobs that need to be accommodated within an increasingly changing workforce. This has spurred the demand for both new commercial stock and the revitalisation of older commercial developments with Melbourne City Council’s data showing that 25 buildings are currently under construction within the Hoddle Grid.

Urban.com.au spoke to <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> Director Julian Anderson, who shared his insights into the impacts of Victorian planning controls on the future of the city’s commercial opportunities.

Despite the best of intentions, says Anderson the planning controls that were introduced last year relating to the permissible size of developments in the <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">CBD</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> are having a significant impact on Melbourne’s skyline. The controls were brought in to arrest construction of a wave of residential towers on the north and western edges of the city — towers that "display little regard for liveability for their inhabitants or the public." 

The Victorian Government’s intention is to “provide improved public amenity and deliver consistency and certainty that will ensure our city grows in a way that enhances all that make it the world’s most liveable city”.

The aspirations are laudable, says Anderson particularly in light of recent developments completed in the CBD which have been up to four times larger than the new controls would allow under a 18:1 plot ratio. In basic terms, the new provisions allow a maximum of 18 square metres of floor area to be developed for every square metre of site area. For example, a 2,000 sqm site can deliver a maximum of 36,000 sqm of floor area. More floor area will be permissable if additional public or strategic benefit is provided such as public open space, affordable housing or commercial office space.

One unintended outcome however, notes Anderson, has been the impact on the viability of commercial office towers, not with respect to height but rather when applying the setbacks required under the controls. This lead to Bates Smart undertaking the assessment of sites within the Hoddle Grid which are feasible for commercial development with a 1,500sqm NLA floorplate which based on their experience is the minimum required by both developers and tenants.

The office initially undertook an assessment of the impact of the new controls on residential development for their existing clients but realised it would be new commercial office developments which would be most impacted. As a comparison, the current crop of office developments which are under construction (save for one or two) were all permitted under the previous planning regime but wouldn't meet the setback requirements of the new controls.

Based on benchmarking their own office developments, Bates Smart determined that to achieve a 1,500sqm floorplate, a site of 3,000sqm would be required to achieve the necessary setbacks. Then a process of subtraction was undertaken, sites with development permits, landmark civic buildings, existing high-rise towers, strata titles were excluded and the potential for site consolidation was also considered. "The result?" says Anderson, fewer than six potential sites that could accommodate a viable commercial office tower.

<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/180507_city_development_study_small-10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bates Smart's development study highlights sites capable of accommodating office development. Image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="437" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/180507_city_development_study_small-10.jpg?itok=wgeGO_md" title="Bates Smart's development study highlights sites capable of accommodating office development. Image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bates Smart's development study highlights sites capable of accommodating office development. Image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>One possible solution is to introduce two distinguishable sets of planning controls for residential and commercial development in the central city. The requirements for office developments with respect to privacy, natural light and adjacencies to other buildings are not as onerous as they are for residential buildings.

Anderson believes if nothing is done landowners will  eventually realise many sites can’t be developed, which will trigger the amalgamation of adjoining sites to maximise development potential. This however leads to protracted negotiation periods, slower development times and fewer opportunities.

Similarly, we may see more developments relying on the purchase of “air rights” — the underutilised space above a building. An adjacent owner can purchase those air rights to enable construction of part of their building into that space. Another potential corollary is the delivery of more slender residential towers because the controls also dictate that the taller a building, the further it must be set back from its boundaries.

Anderson cites New York, where amalgamated sites or those subject to development resulting from the purchase of air rights brought about a raft of super-slim towers. These are very costly because of additional structural requirements and the effects of wind on their slender forms.

As well, the proportion of structure to floor area cuts the net saleable area. This drives developers to build higher in an attempt to claw back profit forgone from lost floor space. Matching the high construction costs are the sky-high prices of $US4 million for a two-bedroom apartment on the 10th floor of a midtown apartment block or $US20 million for a two-bedroom apartment on the 50th floor of a midtown tower, for example.

Melbourne has its own example of this new tower form, with the Bates Smart'-designed Collins House site at <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">466 Collins Street</a>. Approved under the previous planning scheme, the 57-storey apartment building is under construction and when complete, will be the world’s fourth slimmest tower.

Anderson says Melbourne’s future and title as a liveable city lies in our ability to plan for the careful expansion of the city and to find opportunities to relax our planning controls. This would allow for major urban regeneration projects to flourish and accommodate our future needs.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Our research and recent experience has established that developers and tenants are looking for floorplates sized no less than 1,500sqm NLA in CBD zones. There are several factors driving this area requirement. 
Reasonably, developers require a level of pre-commitment from tenants prior to embarking on projects.

These tenants seeking floorplates that minimise distribution of staff across multiple floors. These floorplates can cater to over 100 people and offer open-plan floor space with good access to natural light and views to assure physical and mental wellbeing of the occupants.

The challenge with the planning controls is that rather than stimulating commercial development in the CBD, it stifles it. A floorplate of 1,500sqm under these controls requires a site area of around 3,000sqm. However, by the time you factor in the setbacks and other height controls, there are very few developable sites remaining.

In recent months, our team has conducted research establishing that there are fewer than six potential sites in the CBD that will support development over 80m in height, with floorplates not less than 1,500sqm in area. We concur with various industry sources on predictions that the commercial pipeline could be exhausted in the next decade.

- Julian Anderson, Director Bates Smart
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
It’s predicted that demand for commercial office space in the CBD will almost double over the next 30-35 years – this means Melbourne’s city will need an additional 4 million sqm of commercial space to match demand, largely driven by a booming population and forecast jobs growth.

This is a major challenge for Melbourne and we continue to work with the Victorian Government and the City of Melbourne to ensure that our planning processes not only reflect the needs of the market but can support the needs of our growing city into the future.

- Roger Teale, Property Council of Australia, Victorian President
</blockquote>
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Bates Smart's Julian Anderson discusses commercial development feasibility in Melbourne's central city

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An $8 billion mixed-use city is proposed for Western Sydney, with the potential to create 140,000 total jobs.
It supports the concept of the 30-minute city by enhancing productivity and competitiveness in the city’s west.
The proposal for a World Trade Center Sydney (WTC Sydney), by the Aerotropolis Group, has been made to the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet.
It includes four WTC towers, an international convention and exhibition centre, commercial space for multinational companies, an innovation and incubation centre for start-ups and retail and residential space.
With a vision for a net zero carbon development, the site of the proposed WTC Sydney was master planned by global architecture studio Woods Bagot. 
An economic impact assessment by PwC indicates the mixed use employment district at WTC Sydney would annually create 43,500 direct jobs and directly inject $13 billion to the economy, with significant additional indirect and induced benefits to Sydney and NSW. 
Aerotropolis Group Managing Director and CEO Jomon Varghese suggests WTC Sydney was "a project that will resolve the structural problem faced by Sydney by bringing balance to our city which is historically tilted to the east".
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Western Sydney director of the Sydney Business Chamber, David Borger, said the new airport will be the catalyst for investment and economic opportunities.
Varghese said he hoped the centre would be opened by 2026 – the same time the new Western Sydney Airport will begin operation. 
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