UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.

Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.

It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.

Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.

A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.

The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.

It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.

Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.

“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.

“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”

Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.

“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”

The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.

Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.

Joel Robinson

Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.

Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.

Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.

“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.

“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”

It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377495]

For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.

Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.

Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377494]

“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.

“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”

The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.

While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.

Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.

“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.

“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”

It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.

Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.

The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]

McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.

For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.

“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.

“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377687]

Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.

Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135149]

From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]

Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]

The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

Melbourne developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pdg-corporation">PDG</a> has unveiled its vision for the former Water Tank Site in Ivanhoe, which would see it transformed into a thriving residential neighbourhood, complete with a 2000 sqm public park.&nbsp;

Delivered in partnership with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a>, the proposal would transform the prominent corner of Bell Street and Upper Heidelberg Road into a connected community comprising two residential buildings, generous public open space and shared amenities.&nbsp;

The vision includes 287 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with a minimum of 10 per cent allocated to affordable housing, alongside a 2,000-square-metre publicly accessible park featuring a children's playground, activity lawn, indigenous planting, timber climbing logs, seating areas and a rock gathering circle.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>, the proposal draws on the site's industrial heritage, using a robust architectural language that references the former water tank through expressive structural elements and durable, self-finished materials.&nbsp;

Extensive landscaping has been woven throughout the development, creating a living landscape that strengthens connections to nature while responding sensitively to the surrounding neighbourhood. Two residential buildings ranging from three to 12 storeys are linked by a landscaped forecourt, creating a welcoming arrival experience and improving pedestrian connections through the site.&nbsp;

Residents would also enjoy more than 1,000 square metres of communal open space, including barbecue and dining facilities, vegetable gardens, landscaped seating pavilions and a dedicated coworking space.&nbsp;

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the vision reflected an opportunity to transform one of Ivanhoe's most recognisable sites into a place that balanced housing, community and landscape.&nbsp;

"This is an opportunity to reimagine an important site and create a neighbourhood that delivers lasting benefits for Ivanhoe," Giuliano said.&nbsp;

"We're creating much more than new homes. The vision brings together affordable housing, quality architecture, meaningful public open space and shared places that encourage people to connect, while respecting the site's history and its place within the local community."&nbsp;

Development Victoria’s Executive General Manager Precincts, Niall Cunningham, said the application is an important step for the government-owned site.&nbsp;

“This is about delivering more homes in a well-connected location, along with public open space that the Ivanhoe community will benefit from for years to come,” Cunningham said.&nbsp;

PDG was selected as development partner in late 2025 following a competitive tender process.&nbsp;

A planning submission for the project is currently being progressed through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program, with positive early engagement from both Banyule Council and the Department of Transport and Planning.

PDG unveils plans to transform landmark Ivanhoe Water Tank Site

Shane Wilkinson's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pace-development-group">Pace Development Group</a> has lodged plans for a major residential precinct on the former Presentation College site in Windsor, with an eight-building masterplan ultimately rising to 10 storeys.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/167-dandenong-road-windsor-vic-3181">167–187 Dandenong Road</a> spans a substantial 19,027 sqm site and is being progressed across six stages, with the first residential stages comprising 170 homes across four buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>.

Stage Two will deliver the bulk of the initial housing, with Building A comprising 81 apartments and Building B 49 apartments, both rising to six storeys.

Stage Three will deliver a further 40 homes. The heritage Nagel Building, identified as Building C, will be converted to 12 dwellings, while a new five-storey Building D will comprise 28 apartments at the Hornby Street and Dandenong Road corner.

The 170 homes across Stages Two and Three will include a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including townhouse-style dwellings.<img alt="First look: Pace plans landscaped housing precinct on former Windsor school site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="83c56e3e-dfb9-4e12-b172-c3f18513ec32" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_9.png?VersionId=xRcRpSZsxX.UX_NDDGcRZktw7HVrzx7u" />

&nbsp;

The longer-term masterplan points to considerably greater density across the site.

Indicative plans show Building E accommodating around 80 dwellings across up to 10 storeys, while Building F is earmarked for around 120 dwellings and also up to 10 storeys. Building G is planned to range between four and 10 storeys, however its apartment yield is yet to be determined. That means the masterplan currently identifies at least 370 dwellings across Buildings A to F before any apartments within Building G are counted.

Across the 1.9-hectare site, that represents an indicative density of at least 194 dwellings per hectare, with the final figure to increase once the yield of Building G is established.

Pace is pursuing the project through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program, with Urbis lodging a combined Section 96A planning scheme amendment and planning application on behalf of the developer, which secured the site earlier this year.

The application seeks detailed approval for Stages One, Two and Three, alongside approval of the broader masterplan framework that will guide the later residential stages. Stage One will see an existing heritage building adaptively reused for a wellness and fitness-related facility, while the broader precinct will retain several significant heritage buildings and established trees as part of the redevelopment.

A minimum 10 per cent affordable housing contribution is proposed across both the initial residential stages and the later masterplan stages, delivered through a discounted rental model.

The project comes immediately after a major change to the site's planning controls.

The site was rezoned to the Housing Choice and Transport Zone through Planning Scheme Amendment GC285, gazetted on July 22, 2026, and now sits within the inner catchment of the Windsor Station precinct under the State Government's Train and Tram Zone Activity Centres Program.

While the new controls identify large sites within the inner catchment for buildings of up to six storeys, Pace's masterplan pushes height to 10 storeys in parts of the site, with the taller buildings concentrated toward the centre and along the Sandringham railway corridor.

Lower-scale built form is proposed toward the site's more sensitive residential and heritage edges, with Buildings A and B generally stepping from three storeys at their interfaces to six storeys at upper levels.

Cera Stribley's masterplan breaks the development into a collection of separate buildings rather than a continuous built form, with landscaped spaces, new pedestrian links and a new publicly accessible road forming part of the precinct.

The planning report says the development will create new pedestrian connections to Elm Place and along the railway corridor, as well as a new publicly accessible road linking Elm Place with Dandenong Road. The proposed buildings will occupy around 54 per cent of the site, leaving a substantial portion available for landscaping, communal areas and permeable surfaces.

Urbis said the scale of the project reflected the site's strategic location close to Windsor Station, tram services and the Chapel Street Activity Centre, with the former school campus identified as a significant opportunity to increase housing supply on an underutilised inner-Melbourne site.

&nbsp;

First look: Pace plans landscaped housing precinct on former Windsor school site

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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