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.

Joel Robinson

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

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

Footscray

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One of Footscray's most well known buildings - The 501 Reception Centre, in Melbourne is being offered for sale.
The property has been owned and operated by the Acquaro Family and trading since 1980.
The offering includes three titles with a land area of 6,271 square metres and a building area of about 3,000 square metres. It also includes five function rooms catering up to 1,160 people and has over 60 car parks.
The 495-507 Barkly Street centre is being offered with a planning permit for a five-level retail and residential development. 
The expressions of interest campaign closes on 27 May through Fitzroys agent James Gregson.
Gregson said the property’s flexibility in terms of both development and owner occupier/investor perspective was outstanding, and being in a such a growth area so close to the CBD presented excellent value and potential.
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kjiminez-eaYKfU7qd2

Footscray's 501 Reception Centre offered for sale

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Strong competition for a commercial freehold building located within the Footscray Activity Centre has sold for $800,000 above the reserve price.
Four bidders chased the property, at 202-208 Nicholson Street and 37 Albert Street, before it fell under the auctioneers hammer for $5.8 million.
The property encompasses a large land site of about 2,639 square metres with dual 24 metre- plus frontages to Nicholson and Albert Streets.
It features a two-storey commercial office freehold of about 2,706 square metres which includes four ground floor retail showrooms and first floor commercial office accommodation. The property is leased to established tenants with an estimated net rental of $490,000 per annum, which reflected an initial yield of 8.5% to the purchaser.
Among the tenants are Parliament of Victoria (Marsha Thompson MP), Carers Association of Victoria Incorporated, Choice Family Day Car Services, and Haange Family Day Care.
Fitzroys agents James Gregson and David Bourke handled the campaign. Mr Gregson said the property’s location within the Footscray Activity Centre, close to Victoria University, Grocon’s McNabb development and Footscray Railway Station, which was undergoing development, was a major factor in the successful outcome. “We are witnessing greater interest across these inner western markets from investors and developers seeking to get in early and seize these unique opportunities,” he said.
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Footscray commercial freehold building sells for $800,000 above reserve price

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The latest incarnation of Footscray station is starting to take shape as the Regional Rail Link upgrade works steam along towards an early 2015 completion date. It looks amazing - proof that rail infrastructure can look stylish as well as be functional. Traditionally dark and dingy and a hangout for gangs and junkies, it's now a modern, stylish beacon that the residents of Footscray can be proud of.

This is technically the second upgrade in the last four years.

In 2009 the shops on the station side of Irving St were removed, and a new bridge erected, the bulk of which remains today. Almost as soon as the upgrade was complete, the Regional Rail Link was announced requiring two extra platforms to be added to the existing four. As a consequence, the bridge was lengthened, whilst all the stairs leading to the platforms were removed and replaced with a combination of escalators, ramps and new stairs.

The leaking bridge tunnel roof was patched up, and a new concourse and ticket office has been built at the Irving St entrance. The new platform 1 building's colour scheme and form looks bold and modern whilst remaining respectful of the original buildings on platforms 2/3 and 4/5. A major bus interchange will run the length of Irving St, whilst an already upgraded tram terminus is located across the road on the corner of Leeds St.

Complimenting the new station development is the construction of Footscray's first real skyscraper. An office tower built on the adjoining McNab Avenue precinct, it will house the government departments of State Trustees and City West Water bringing many welcome jobs to Footscray.

Two future residential towers are also planned for the precinct with some cafes/basic retail adding some street level activation. The State Trustees tower is close to completion and makes for a stunning backdrop giving commuters approaching the area an impression of a fast rejuvenating Footscray.

Whilst the removal of the shops was controversial, it added some much needed light and open feel to the area. However one trader has survived - the ubiquitous and world famous Olympic Doughnuts. South East Asia may have fried crickets, New York may have cronuts, but Footscray has jam doughnuts to die for, an institution in the West for over 30 years.

So when it faced the prospect of eviction during the station works, the Regional Rail Link project team moved swiftly to accommodate them, thus saving themselves from the prospect of a riot on their hands. Given the roaring trade the little doughnut van does every day, it was a smart move indeed.

So when the station upgrade is complete, and Regional Rail Link trains start flowing through, I highly recommend you come down and check it out. Projects like this can transform the face of a suburb, and go a long way to changing the negative perceptions it may have.

Come to admire the station design, but stay for the doughnuts!

Martin Mankowski is a local resident and Apartments.com.au's honourary Footscray correspondent.

Photos captured by Mark Baljak.
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TheHeadOnTheDoor

Footscray Station update - Where's the doughnuts?

The <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray</a> development scene is at present an interesting beast. Full of promise and potential yet short on results, Footscray - one would think - will eventually mirror <a href="/developments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a> in fully embracing to the high-rise model.

Indeed just like South Yarra&#39;s successful <a href="http://www.stonnington.vic.gov.au/residents-and-services/planning/strategic-planning-projects/forrest-hill-precinct-south-yarra---streetscape-masterplan/">Forrest Hill Precinct</a>, Footscray has the <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Page/Page.aspx?Page_id=2220">Joseph Road Precinct</a> which in due course will host dozens of apartment towers (a number of which have been approved to 30 levels), eventually making an indelible mark upon Melbourne&#39;s skyline. <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">8 Hopkins Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/12-moreland-street-footscray">10 Moreland Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/liberty-one-1-warde-street-footscray">1 Warde</a><a href="/buildings/boat-house-2-joseph-road-footscray"> Street</a> are just a sample of what is in store for the Joseph Road Precinct, yet to date little has materialised by way of construction. Sites 8 Hopkins Street with potentially 795 apartments and <a href="/buildings/riverina-22-hopkins-street-footscray">18 Hopkins Street</a> which carries approval for 1000 apartments have yet to gain buyers even though both sites have been on the market for some time, while other projects have seemingly vanished post approval.

Hopkins Street precinct is not alone with multiple other sites congregating around the soon to be completed Footscray Station revamp gearing up for a high-rise rebirth, although only two major projects are currently under construction at <a href="http://18albert.com/">18 Albert Street</a> and <a href="http://www.footscraylife.com.au/2012/08/the-development-of-mcnab-avenue-footscray/">1 Mc Nab Avenue</a>.

<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/Image6_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The current design accompanying a site sales campaign. Image © multifieldgroup.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_15.jpg?itok=oXg2PNEi" title="The current design accompanying a site sales campaign. Image © multifieldgroup.com.au" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>The current design accompanying a site sales campaign. Image &copy; multifieldgroup.com.au</figcaption>
</figure>

If only a true &#39;gateway&#39; site were available and consequently developed that would announce to one and all the worth of Footscray in a design sense, while also heralding a new high-rise chapter for the locality. Well that site exists at 69-73 Hopkins Street with the scheme above which seeing a large residential building covering the triangular 2241 square metre site, currently the home of Footscray Market. Consider the parcel of land most capable of holding a tall skyscraper and fronting Footscray Station plus Footscray&#39;s main intersection if traveling by road from <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne&#39;s CBD</a>, the site fits the bill.

In the past 69-73 Hopkins Street has been subject to an expressions of interest campaign with the above design paraded as part of the marketing material. Also visible on construction firm <a href="/developers/multifield-group">Multifield Group</a>&#39;s webpage, the 29 level twisting design gives a fair indication as to what can be expected at some point down the track, yet with its hopelessly inactive podium and heavy use of precast panels it&#39;s not quite the stupendous statement worthy of such a site.

Enter a sinuous and stunning concept named The Wave Footscray. Very little is known about the scheme - released late 2012 and potentially nothing more than an expression of the creators skill, it matters little for The Wave is precisely the quality of functional design that should be encouraged for this particular site. Characterised by sweeping curves and outdoor terraces, the lower floors and podium rooftop near mimic Vivo City Singapore in both aesthetics and function, with the inclusion of a water feature and treed landscapes.

While the podium would house a rejuvenated Footscray Market, the tower would carry retail space, parking facilities, a gym and commercial space. With a rooftop green area and LED lighting the complex covers the basics - immaculate design, heavy activation to all frontages, multiple uses attracting a varied custom and green initiatives. Team The Wave Footscray with <a href="/architects/point-architects">Point Architects&#39;</a> concept for a <a href="http://www.pointarchitects.com.au/apartments/irving-st-footscray/">green apartment tower</a> abutting the The Wave at Irving Street and Leeds Street and that would make for an impressive one-two design punch!

<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/Image5_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images taken from the YouTube video. Image © Roy Zhao"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="173" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_17.jpg?itok=OHE6hql9" title="Images taken from the YouTube video. Image © Roy Zhao" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Images taken from the YouTube video. Image &copy; Roy Zhao</figcaption>
</figure>

In due course many apartment buildings and commercial towers will appear throughout Footscray with vast numbers of new residents and workers to follow, my only wish is that a high calibre project such as The Wave Footscray would lead the charge.

Rather than wax lyrical, see the following video clip.

<figure><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="398" scrolling="no" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/bV8dreSTNec" width="100%"></iframe>

<figcaption><a href="/youtu.be/bV8dreSTNec">The Wave Footscray on YouTube</a></figcaption>
</figure>

silvermb

The Wave Footscray - yes please!

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A closer look today at one of the ever increasing number of planning applications that eventually intend to call the Joseph Road Precinct of Footscray home. 1 Warde Street was submitted to state government body DPCD last year for approval, although as yet no planning decision has been revealed. Devised by <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/#!/" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a> for burgeoning property developers Urban Inc, and with the working name Romeo and Juliet, 1 Warde Street is already visible on <a href="http://urbaninc.com.au/pages/ajax/places/romeo-and-juliet#" target="_blank">Urban Inc's website</a> and forms part of the developers intended future development stock.

Located well back within the Joseph Street Precinct, 1 Warde Street's 2181sqm site would be hemmed in by the already approved <a href="/new-apartments/12-moreland-street-footscray" target="_blank">10 Moreland Street </a>development to the east, and the Footscray rail reserve to the west. Stage One is the smaller, 19 level tower whilst the taller Stage Two would match its intended neighbour at 26 levels, thereby not exceeding a height transition line as seen below.

<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/Image13_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Warde street as seen from Newell Street, Footscray."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image13_2.jpg?itok=H0YQLKXx" title="1 Warde street as seen from Newell Street, Footscray."></a>

As per the submission, 1 Warde Street would contain 311 apartments over two towers which when completed would appear as one solid structure. 263 car parking spaces would be available over five levels, as would be 211 bicycle bays. Overall height of the buildings would round out at 63m and 84m respectively, with Stage 1 including 140 apartments whilst the taller Stage 2 allows for 171 residential dwellings. All apartments will be a choice of one and two bedroom options.

Both rooftops would include useable areas for residents with stage 1 incorporating communal indoor and outdoor lounges, sundecks, landscaping, kitchen and a barbeque area. Stage 2 holds an altogether similar layout with the exception being a gym incorporated into the facility, offering excellent views.

Double level SOHO commercial spaces will be available at ground fronting either Warde Street or Neilson Place, as will apartments, a dedicated restaurant space and an 84sqm cafe. These retail spaces will front an intended public park directly west of the proposed development.

<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/Image2_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Warde street as seen from Wightman Street within the Joseph Street Precinct."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2_14.jpg?itok=1LVx1yRs" title="1 Warde street as seen from Wightman Street within the Joseph Street Precinct."></a>

Heavily resembling Elenberg Fraser's previous project <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/#!/project/clara" target="_blank">Clara</a>, 1 Warde Street's podium is designed to mimic an "Eroded, porous, inhabited base. It provides a continuous streetscape and an urban scale to Warde Street." Conversely the tower element has incorporated a number of vertical elements, with Elenberg Fraser describing the tower as "A light crystalline cluster of volumes. It introduces verticality above the podium level and provides articulated surfaces that structure the built form."

Bombastic language aside, the architects aim is to create two contrasting elements, they being the podium and tower. Particularly pleasing is the use of greenery over the carpark levels. Not only does the greenery hide the inactive perforated metal screens, it ties in nicely with the intended park greenery of the immediate area.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image11_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cause and effect, 1 Warde Street inspirations."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_5.jpg?itok=IlLzbGr3" title="Cause and effect, 1 Warde Street inspirations."></a>

As expected, Maribyrnong City Council have voiced opposition over a number of issues relating to this application. 1 Warde Street has failed to gain support from City of Maribyrnong based on the following factors.

<ul>
<li>The proposal significantly exceeds the 12 storey height limit allowed under local policy</li>
	<li>The proposal fails to provide an appropriate land use mix, with recreation and community uses lacking in particular</li>
	<li>The proposal fails to provide diversity in housing choice</li>
	<li>Overshadowing issues</li>
	<li>Unacceptable internal amenity for occupants due to wind impacts</li>
	<li>Insufficient carparking provisions</li>
</ul>
Whilst Council have submitted the above injections, they have also requested that upon gaining approval (in whatever form that may be) via DPCD, a Development Contribution of $900 per dwelling be imposed, which is higher than what has been allowed for in the planning application.

Whereas a number of planning applications in the Joseph Road Precinct have been put forward by non-developers seeking to sell their land parcel with planning approval in place, 1 Warde Street may well be the first development to break ground. Working on the assumption that 1 Warde Street will eventually gain planning approval from DPCD, its likely Urban Inc as a property developer will see this application through to fruition.

All images above taken from DPCD planning application and © Elenberg Fraser Architects.
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Planning Application > 1 Warde Street, Footscray

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A company associated with <a href="http://www.littleprojects.com.au/" target="_blank">Little Projects</a> is awaiting a planning decision from Minister Guy's department for a large residential complex on the banks of the Maribyrnong River. Located within the currently vacant <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Page/Page.aspx?Page_id=2220" target="_blank">Joseph Road Precinct</a> that is earmarked for intensive redevelopment, Devcorp (Vic) Pty Ltd is the applicant for the subject site, 2 Hopkins Street Footscray. Whilst City of Maribyrnong have voiced their opposition to the scheme and called for improved planning controls for the precinct, ultimate responsibility rests with state planning body DPCD.
Considered the precinct's most important site due to its proximity to Maribyrnong River, <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Plus Architecture</a> have subsequently incorporated a large tranche of open space slicing through the middle of the site, allowing future residents living deeper within the precinct direct access to the Maribyrnong River's bank and facilities.
<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image3_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site overview and ground layout. Image © Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_13.jpg?itok=FRX1Di_C" title="Site overview and ground layout. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
The scheme calls for four distinctive buildings of 16, 18, 20 and 25 levels holding a total 774 apartments. Of those 278 will be one bedroom, 496 two bedroom with no 3 bedroom or penthouse apartments available. Above ground podiums will accomodate 759 car parking bays (including 50 visitor parking spaces), 277 bicycle spaces while each apartment also receives at least one storage cage.
Intended building heights range between 50 and 82 meters. The tallest tower would sit to the site's north-west corner while a distinctive angular glass tower would front Hopkins Street and the Maribyrnong River, thereby becoming the most visible of all proposed buildings in the precinct if travelling in a westerly direction via Dynon Road.
<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/Image46.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View from the eastern bank of the Maribyrnong. Image © Plus Architecture"><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/Image46.jpg?itok=juCXDuLq" title="View from the eastern bank of the Maribyrnong. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
1315sqm of commercial space is expected to be split over two buildings, they being the two towers located closest to Hopkins Street. In this way retail street activation is maximised along the future Maribyrnong Street and extended Warde Street junction. Active frontages are also designed into the lower levels of all buildings fronting Maribyrnong River.
Having both Warde Street and Neilson Place extensions traverse the site will have a two-pronged effect. The public realm would be clearly defined with direct Maribyrnong River Trail and park access through the site, furthermore these pedestrian thoroughfares would physically divide the site into three parcels, allowing a staged development if the developer so wishes.
<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/Image7_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level from Maribyrnong Street and Neilson Street. Image © Plus Architecture"><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/Image7_12.jpg?itok=bk-I2Xf-" title="Ground level from Maribyrnong Street and Neilson Street. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Maribyrnong City Council have voiced their opposition toward 2 Hopkins Street in its submitted form, stating "The proposal raises significant issues with respect to inappropriate built form, limited mix of uses, non-compliance with State and Local Planning Policies and impact on the Maribyrnong River."
Maribyrnong City Council have also included the following issues which led to their opposing this scheme;
<ul>
<li>
		request the Developer Contribution Payment increase from $450 to $900 per dwelling</li>
	<li>
		an inadequate mix of uses, in particular employment generating uses and fails to contribute to housing diversity</li>
	<li>
		lack of adequate parking on site for visitors/patrons. Scheme doesn't take parking needs of entire precinct into account</li>
	<li>
		noted overshadowing concerns, see below the expected shadow 2pm, September 22nd (equinox)</li>
</ul>
<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/Image13_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="22nd September shadow diagram. Image © Plus Architecture"><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/Image13_1.jpg?itok=g3ra-0tP" title="22nd September shadow diagram. Image © Plus Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>
Submitted during October 2012, no decision has been given by DPCD planning officials. Further the application is now listed as deferred on the State Planning Permit Register, pointing to the possibility that 2 Hopkins Street may well have found itself in limbo for the immediate future.
 
The original planning application as lodged with the Maribyrnong City Council, is in parts.  You can view each individual part here: <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part1.pdf" target="_blank">Part 1</a>, <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part2.pdf" target="_blank">Part 2</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/Attachments/DEC12_CDSC_2_Hopkins_Street_Footscray_Part3.pdf" target="_blank">Part 3</a> (PDF's hosted on Maribyrnong's CMS).
All images © Plus Architecture
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