The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yarraville-green-42-stephen-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville Green</a> development in Melbourne's inner west is showing that landscaping can be just as influential as architecture, with buyers responding strongly to the garden-first approach adopted from the outset by developer Excelon Projects and the project's design team.

Excelon appointed Six Degrees Architects and landscape architects SBLA to work collaboratively on the development, with a brief to create "a sustainable, design-led building with a focus on community."

That approach has resonated with buyers. According to Next Chapter Director Tom Hirini, who is leading the sales campaign, the landscaped communal garden has become one of the project's defining features, alongside its boutique scale and European-inspired cluster housing concept.

Local downsizers, right-sizers and established families already living in Yarraville and surrounding suburbs have accounted for the majority of purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297740]

Yarraville Green will comprise 53 homes, including apartments and townhomes, arranged around the shared central garden to maximise connections to the landscaped open space. Parking has been moved underground, allowing the ground plane to be dedicated to greenery, pedestrian movement and communal spaces.

The landscape extends well beyond passive planting. Productive garden beds, a pergola, communal gathering spaces, garden sheds and a pet wash have all been integrated into the masterplan, creating spaces designed to encourage everyday interaction between residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297741]

The interiors continue Excelon's focus on craftsmanship, incorporating bespoke elements by Melbourne artisans including leadlight detailing by Adadaz, hand-turned timber hardware by Auburn Woodturning and blown-glass lighting by Ruth Allen.

Sustainability has also been embedded throughout the project, with Yarraville Green targeting an average 7-star NatHERS energy rating through passive design principles, rooftop solar servicing common areas and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297735]

Construction continues to progress at Yarraville Green, with structural works well underway and framing works approaching completion under builder Balmain &amp; Co. The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027.

Apartments at Yarraville Green are currently priced from $625,000, while townhomes start from $1.4 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144913]

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 41-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 41-storey tower, which has 229 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Frankston

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A securely leased apartment block at Frankston in Melbourne's popular south-eastern bayside suburb has price expectation in the high $1 millions.
Available through Savills Australia, the <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-frankston-502049122" target="_blank">Park Street property</a> sits directly opposite Beauty Park and is a short walk to shops, schools and public transport.
It comprises a two level residential building, with eight one bedroom units in good condition and undercover parking on a 788 sqm site.
Savills' agents Julian Heatherich and James Lockwood say that the property is fully leased, with the exception of one unit which has been refurbished.
It has a potential, fully leased, income of $80,920.
Julian said the property would suit investors and developers with multiple options to fully refurbish, value-add or redevelop.
"The property will appeal to both investors and developers looking to value-add or redevelop subject to council approval," he said. 
"It is currently fully let, with the exception of one unit due to refurbishment, with an excellent leasing history and is situated in a fantastic location within walking distance of all essential amenities."
James highlighted the properties key investment attributes.
<ul>
<li>The location in a bayside precinct within walking distance of the beach, transport and shops;</li>
<li>The secure lease profile;</li>
<li>The solid building in very good condition; </li>
<li>The generous 788 square metre site;</li>
<li>The exceptional add-value potential; and,</li>
<li>The potential for redevelopment (STCA).</li>
</ul>
"This is a great opportunity for an investor and/or developer with the option of either maintaining an investment with a proven income stream, or a value-add redevelopment with the advantage of ongoing income in the planning stages," James said.
"Properties of this calibre and versatility in bayside locations are highly sought after by tenants and investors alike." 
The property will be sold by Expressions of Interest closing, Tuesday, August 23 at 12pm.
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Bayside Frankston apartment block close to the beach for sale

<html><body>
Frankston's bathing box prices are on the rise.
One of the 30-odd foreshore boxes on Gould Strett, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-vic-frankston-122228534" target="_blank">Bathing Box 26</a>, is being offered for sale at $145,000.
The selling agent Robert Austin of LJ Hooker Seaford said the property would likely break the Frankston record.
Frankston's recent beach box sales include <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-vic-frankston-119371491" target="_blank">Bathing Box 32 </a>which fetched $125,000 in March last year, and the Sunrise Rotary Club-built <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-frankston-116155691" target="_blank">Bathing Box 10</a> which sold for $114,500 in 2014.
Bathing box records have fallen in Portsea, McCrae, Dromana and then three times in Brighton over the past year. 
Frankston resident Bill Gardiner bought his box 30 years ago for just $3000.
Gould St’s beach boxes can only be owned by Frankston council ratepayers, similiar to the situation at Brighton’s Dendy Street beach.
MELBOURNE'S BEACH BOX BONANZA
Brighton: the record price for the Dendy Street beach foreshore has been broken three times this year, most recently with Bathing Box 44, which fetched $307,000 last month.
Dromana: Boatshed 145 set a new benchmark when sold for $306,800 in March.
Portsea: Boatshed 23 broke the Shelley Beach record, fetching $615,000 in November, but a subsequent prized offering failed to sell.
McCrae: a mystery racehorse owner paid a record price<a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/realestate/news/melbourne-vic/racing-identity-wins-bidding-race-for-beach-box-on-mccrae-foreshore-on-the-mornington-peninsula/news-story/4d66598d44c0cc6bd08bf14981ad00a4" target="_blank"> </a>of $239,000 for Boatshed 28 last October.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Frankston bathing box prices on the rise

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Frankston (postcode 3199), an outer-southeastern suburb of Melbourne, figures in the top 10 most searched suburbs of Australia in 2015 compiled by rent.com.au.
The median rent for all rental properties advertised in Frankston in the 30 days till the first week of February was $300 per week, a 6.25% or $20 fall from the previous quarter. 
This was also cheaper than the median of $350 in the same 30 days for the surrounding suburbs of Seaford, Frankston South, Frankston North, Langwarrin and Langwarrin South. 
The price range for all properties advertised in the 30-day period varies from $140 for a one-bedroom dwelling to $450 for five or more bedrooms.
The average days on market for rental properties in Frankston within a 90-day period was 28 days, 10 shorter than the previous quarter.
There were 119 rental properties advertised in the 30 days, up 39 from the previous 30-day period.
There are a total of 5,353 rental properties in Frankston, which is 37.8 percent of all properties there, according to ABS data, 2011.
The overall property composition of Frankston is 84.5 percent houses and 15.5 percent apartments.
As an illustration of properties around the median rent, Property Observer picked these from rent.com.au:
<img src="/images/2016/03/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-31%20at%202.09.20%20PM.png" alt="">
1. A two-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.rent.com.au/property-house-frankston-3199-1146001" target="_blank">9/34 Birdwood Street</a> (above) is up for rent for $325 per week.
<img src="/images/2016/03/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-31%20at%202.13.29%20PM.png" alt="">
2. A two-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.rent.com.au/property-unit-frankston-3199-1696600" target="_blank">4/11 Williams Street</a> (above) can be rented for $280 per week.
The ASX-listed Rent.com.au Ltd achieved a record 615,405 unique visitors to its website in January, followed by more than 610,000 unique visitors in February.
Landlords are able to list their property for free in a limited time offer on <a href="https://www.rent.com.au/" target="_blank">rent.com.au</a>.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Melbourne’s Frankston median rent $50 cheaper than surrounds: Rent.com.au 

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Frankston City Council this week approved what will become the city's tallest building. At 17 levels and 52.5 metres in height the residential tower is located directly behind popular venue The Deck and will hold a prime position over the bayside suburb.

Championed by Peninsula Blue Development, the Finnis Architects-designed tower features a curved facade which the architect believes reflects the waves and nearby beach. With only two and three bedroom apartments included, 6 Davey Street as it's known for now will incorporate 240 degree aspects with balconies facing north, east and west.

With no objectors and full Council support, 6 Davey Street it's hoped will spearhead heightened high-rise residential activity in the area.

Planning Consultants Taylors submitted the Davey Street apartment complex for approval. It was processed in less than 60 days, under Council’s Priority Planning procedure for developments in the Frankston City Centre.

Frankston City CEO Dennis Hovenden says that Council’s Priority Planning process sends a strong message to the development industry that the City is taking development applications seriously.

“The Priority Planning process can also apply to applications outside Frankston city centre, if they demonstrate significant economic benefit”, said Mr Hovenden.

<h2>6 Davey Street, Frankston summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Existing structure: former Place of Assembly (church and hall)</li>
	<li>17 level residential tower at 52.5 metres</li>
	<li>919.88sqm site with frontage to Davey Street</li>
	<li>63 apartments: 53/2BR + 10/3BR</li>
	<li>Ground floor offices and private function room included</li>
	<li>89 car parking spaces and 24 bicycle bays with four basement levels</li>
</ul>
<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/frankston_architecture_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new focal point. Image © Finnis Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/frankston_architecture_1.jpg?itok=_JJsOao2" title="A new focal point. Image © Finnis Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Frnakston focal point. Image © Finnis Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The proposed development will result in a land mark building on a prominent site on the edge of the Frankston MAC (Major Activity Centre). The proposal is consistent with policy directions at State and local level and will increase housing densities and choice for the wider community of Frankston.

Issues relating to access arrangements and traffic movement can be addressed through the provision of widening and upgrading of Bay Lane. Approval can only be recommended on this basis.
<cite>Council officers assessment</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Frankston is now less than an hour’s commute from Melbourne CBD and the entire Mornington Peninsula, and has become a viable option for buyers and investors seeking bay views and an attractive lifestyle

Residential development boosts Frankston’s economy by increasing demand for local goods and services. It also assists with perceptions of safety by increasing levels of activity outside of business hours.
<cite>Frankston City CEO, Dennis Hovenden</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
This will be a landmark development for Port Phillip Bay, introducing high quality apartments to the Frankston CBD, potentially stimulating further investment into the area
<cite>Rodney Goullet, Peninsula Blue Development</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Frankston gets going</h2>

Word has it 6 Davey Street has a healthy number of apartments precommitted, increasing the likelihood that it will proceed to construction. The immediate site adjoining 6 Davey Street is though testament to the difficulty in realising a substantial apartment project in Frankston with <a href="/buildings/allure-bayside-12-davey-street-frankston">Airio</a> failing to materialise in recent years.

Having said that a number of large-scale residential and/or commercial proposals have lined up the bayside suburb. Approved are <a href="/new-apartments/harbour-frankston-446-450-nepean-highway-frankston">446-450 Nepean Highway</a> and 16 Clyde Street while South East Water's new office accommodation is midway through construction.

Future projects are likely to include <a href="http://www.doigarchitecture.com.au/gallery-category/masterplanning-urban-design/#444-nepean-highway">444 Nepean Highway</a> with multiple towers and Riverlee's <a href="http://www.riverlee.com.au/projects/453-455-nepean-highway-frankston-123">453-455 Nepean Highway</a> which is subject to a 16 level residential tower concept devised by K2LD as seen below.

<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/127.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="In the making? Image © K2LD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/127.jpg?itok=XYjJflgW" title="In the making? Image © K2LD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>In the making? Image © K2LD</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

6 Davey Street: Frankston's tallest tower approved

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Frankston City Council have taken a proactive step in enabling further investment to flow into the municipality by implementing further changes to their planning framework, designed to expedite planning applications and enhance investment potential in the area.

<blockquote>
Frankston City Council has developed an innovative program, called Priority Planning, to facilitate significant commercial precinct development within the Frankston city centre, and potentially other parts of the municipality, which demonstrate significant economic benefit.

The process seeks to ‘cut red tape’ by ensuring more efficient planning decisions are made on applications that drive employment and/or activate the Frankston city centre, while encouraging high quality developments.
<cite><a href="http://www.investfrankston.com.au/planning" target="_blank">Invest Frankston: Priority Planning</a></cite>
</blockquote>

Priority Planning revolves around pre-application meetings between Council and the applicant in order to communicate issues and mitigate points of difference, thus avoiding these once the application is submitted. Over a five year period average planning process days for delegated planning decisions have tumbled from near on 105 days to just 45 days.

<blockquote>
There are two streams in the streamlined application process. Stream 1 deals with moderate sized applications that can be delegated to Council officers. Stream 2 deals with major applications with a development cost of over $ 5 million and/or three or more levels, which must be considered by Councillors.
<cite><a href="http://www.investfrankston.com.au/planning" target="_blank">Invest Frankston: Priority Planning</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/20934Nepean03_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="446-450 Nepean Highway. Image © Doig Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20934Nepean03_0.jpg?itok=32lMjGUL" title="446-450 Nepean Highway. Image © Doig Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>446-450 Nepean Highway. Image © Doig Architects</figcaption></figure>Ultimately the revised process equates to major projects being resolved within a nominated 60 day period. An example of a Stream 2 project is the above 11-level office tower at which was <a href="/news/planning-application-446-450-nepean-highway-frankston" target="_blank">highlighted by Urban.com.au</a> earlier in the year. 446-450 Nepean Highway has since been approved and stands as an example of Frankston City Council's willingness to generate investment into the city via higher density developments.

<blockquote>
The delivery of prompt processes to prospective developers will send a strong message that Frankston is open for business. We are a city undergoing transformation and we have to capitalise on the interest in our city right now and Priority Planning is already reaping excellent results.
<cite><a href="http://www.frankston.vic.gov.au/Your_Council/Media_and_Publications/Latest_News/Frankston_Council_fast_tracking_city_centre_development" target="_blank">Darrel Taylor, Frankston City Mayor</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

Hats off to Frankston City Council for beating their drum in terms of encouraging investment, although one adage comes to mind: you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink.

While the new $80 million South East Water HQ may act as a generator for investment, some of the good work seems to have been undone by the apparent failure of <a href="/buildings/allure-bayside-12-davey-street-frankston">Airio Apartments</a>. With online sales no longer visible and the project website banished, it seems demand is not quite there for a 14 level apartment tower in Frankston.

Regardless, see the good work of Frankston City Council via <a href="http://www.investfrankston.com.au/home" target="_blank">Invest Frankston</a>.
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Frankston City Council introduces Priority Planning

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Today's article is a follow-up piece to a news item from earlier this week titled <a href="/news/is-this-frankstons-time-to-shine" target="_blank">'Is it Frankston's time to shine?'</a> in which Apartments.com.au highlighted the growing number of medium and high-rise developments jockeying for position within the bayside suburb.

In focus today is 446-450 Nepean Highway, an 11 storey mixed-use development which is currently toward the tail end of the approval process as Frankston City Council has indicated that the development will receive the green light.  Located directly opposite the revamped Peninsula Centre, 446-450 Nepean Highway is expected to form part of a wall of mid and high-rise buildings on the western flank of Nepean Highway. 

<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/Image1_48.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site in question. Image © Google Maps"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_48.jpg?itok=DXDzFQKj" style="height:263px; width:580px" title="The site in question. Image © Google Maps"></a>

Responsible for this scheme, <a href="http://www.doigarchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Doig Architecture</a> are also in the process of devising a residential building of some 300 apartments on the neighbouring 444 Nepean Highway site.  Whilst these are separate developments, both will abut one another and appear as five separate buildings over a 200 plus metre stretch.  Capable of being constructed in stages to meet market demand, both developments are designed to be visually discernable in their components, acting as a 'city wall' according to Doig.

At 44.1 metres tall, 446-450 Nepean Highway would carry approximately 10,500 m² of office accommodation over upper floors.  A mezzanine ground floor and two podium levels will host a select number of apartments facing Kananook Creek and the Bay beyond while a total of approximately 600 m² of lettable retail space will activate both Nepean Highway and Kananook Creek Boulevard.

It's also expected that near 200 m² of additional space will front a new pedestrian laneway, linking the main north-south aligned thoroughfares that flank the site.  Servicing the tower will be 367 car parking positions accompanied 48 bicycle bays and 31 motorbike bays, distributed over five levels, both above and below ground with entry via Kananook Creek Boulevard.

<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/20934Nepean03.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="446-450 Nepean Highway. Image © Doig 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/20934Nepean03.jpg?itok=va32U7wt" title="446-450 Nepean Highway. Image © Doig Architecture"></a>

The materials schedule is best described as monumental with no less than 18 separate forms of metal, timber, glass and concrete employed to create 446-450 Nepean Highway's exterior.  Prominent will be blue and grey glass over the tower's Nepean Highway frontage, punctuated silver glass in a seemingly haphazard fashion. Clear glaze will define the streetscape while perforated patterned mesh screens will cloak above ground car park levels and feature beach and nature motifs.

Doig Architecture's website carries the following summary of 446-450 Nepean Highway. "This 6,500sqm parcel of land between Nepean Highway and the Kananook Creek corridor offers a unique opportunity for the creation of a new High Street and public realm for the City of Frankston. With the opening of the Frankston Bypass, Nepean Highway is to be downgraded and two lanes of traffic removed. This section of the street could and should be developed with greater height and a more urban form, generous footpaths and planting of canopy trees and include uses such as Office, Residential and service retail, and potentially Student Accommodation and Education."

<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_24.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kananook Creek frontage. Image © Doig 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/Image2_24.jpg?itok=R-dzzjzO" title="Kananook Creek frontage. Image © Doig Architecture"></a>

Although Council resolved to grant a planning permit during July 2013, the planning application was taken to VCAT as a number of objectors raised issues such as non-compliance to state and local planning policy, loading and road access provisions, design response and overdevelopment.  Subsequently a VCAT mediation session yielded an in-principal agreement  whereby increased privacy measures such as aluminium aerofoils (as seen above) will be incorporated into the design.

As of December 2013 446-450 Nepean Highway has found provisional approval from both Frankston City Council and VCAT, paving the way for final approval during the new year.
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Planning Application > 446-450 Nepean Highway, Frankston

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So long considered the 'derriere' of Melbourne, Frankston is quietly going about the process of regeneration and reinvigoration as a host of new developments eye off the Bayside locale. Far from the gaze of mainstream CBD developers and media for that matter, Frankston in the eyes of many has yet to shrug the 'Bayside Bogan' tag; and somewhat unfairly many would argue!

Under the guise of the <a href="http://www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning/plansandpolicies/centralactivitiesareas/frankston" target="_blank">Frankston Activities Area</a>, the renewal of the area's city centre is central to facilitating <q>Changes to land uses, building size and design and public spaces, and inform the location and types of housing, businesses, community facilities, transport and infrastructure that people want to see in Frankston.</q> Although the process of determining a suitable Structure Plan is continuing, a number of projects over all stages are in the pipeline, with the regeneration of the Peninsula Centre a development beachhead.

<h2>377 Nepean Highway</h2>

<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/f5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Peninsula Centre rebirthed as Quest on the Bay Frankston. Images courtesy lastminute.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/f5.jpg?itok=trAuEw-4" title="The Peninsula Centre rebirthed as Quest on the Bay Frankston. Images courtesy lastminute.com.au" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Fake palm trees aside, <a href="http://www.asianpacificgroup.com.au/" target="_blank">Asian Pacific Group</a>'s regeneration of the infamous Peninsula Centre seems to have acted as a catalyst of sorts for further development in Frankston. Derided by many, including Barry Humphries as <q>The worst building in Australia</q> once upon a time, the complex reopened during 2013 as a Quest franchise and is formally known as Peninsula on the Bay. The 10 level structure that was near inexplicably tied to Frankston's negative connotation now lives on as a residential, commercial and retail hub, drawing people into the Frankston CBD.

<h2>10-12 Davey Street</h2>

<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/f3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Above all others. Image © airio.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/f3.jpg?itok=uEXh7A81" title="Above all others. Image © airio.com.au" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Currently at sales, Airio Frankston according to Property Subdivisions was <q>Prepared by <a href="http://www.dentoncorkermarshall.com/">Denton Corker Marshall</a> Architects, for a multi storey mixed use development comprising a café and health club at ground level, 89 residential apartments within floors 1 -13 and associated basement car parking. The development adopts a contemporary form with a key design philosophy to incorporate a ‘floating’ element above the ground level podium in response to the existing buildings that are subject to a Heritage Overlay (HO49), whilst the levels above are designed to maximise premium views towards the bay and the central Melbourne city skyline to the north west and views towards the bay and Port Phillip Heads to the south west. At ground level the public realm is activated via the introduction of a café within 10 Davey Street and associated alfresco terrace, whilst a health club is proposed within 12 Davey Street.</q>

<h2>73 Wells Street</h2>

<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/SEW_FINAL_DESIGN.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="South East Water's new digs. Image © BVN Donovan Hill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/SEW_FINAL_DESIGN.jpg?itok=n2F0GTem" title="South East Water's new digs. Image © BVN Donovan Hill" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Fronting Kananook Creek, Probuild has commenced construction on South East Water's new headquarters. Designed by <a href="http://www.donovanhill.com.au/" target="_blank">BVN Donovan Hill</a>, the complex will eventually accommodate 700 South East Water employees currently worked across three sites in Heatherton, Lynbrook and Dandenong South. At the time Water Minister Peter Walsh was quoted as saying <q>The consolidation, which had been in planning for 18 months, would also provide a boost to the Frankston economy... Frankston was chosen as the most appropriate site for South East Water's head office because it is the most central location for their business, which services Melbourne's south-east suburbs, Pakenham, Bunyip and the Mornington Peninsula.</q>

<h2>16 Clyde Street</h2>

<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/f2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="DCA's Clyde Street proposal. Images © Design Consortia Australia &amp; Google Maps"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/f2.jpg?itok=cA8lc061" title="DCA's Clyde Street proposal. Images © Design Consortia Australia &amp; Google Maps" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

An upcoming ten level residential complex of 177 apartments, the development if built will activate Clyde Street between Balmoral Street and Station Street whilst providing additional serviced apartments to Frankston's CBD. <a href="http://www.designconsortia.com.au/" target="_blank">Design Consortia Australia</a> describe the project as being <q>Adjacent to the food court entry at Bayside Shopping Centre, this is an island site fronting a paved pedestrian mall. Designed as a serviced apartment development of 125 apartments of 1 and 2-Bedroom apartments in the lower levels, it also comprises 52 upper level 2 and 3-Bedroom apartments which capture the panoramic bayside views offered by the location.</q>

<h2>451-455 Nepean Highway</h2>

<img alt="" height="422" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/f1.jpg" title="K2Ld's Nepean Highway tower. Image © K2Ld" width="1152">

The work of Singaporean architecture firm <a href="http://www.k2ld.com/">K2Ld</a>, 451-455 Nepean Highway is the tallest and most interesting of all potential developments for Frankston. The 18 level complex is defined by a bust of Rodin's The Thinker - an interesting, unique activation of podium space and in somewhat of an oddity the original Thinker. <q>When conceived in 1880 in its original size (approx. 70 cm) as the crowning element of The Gates of Hell</q> according to Museum Rodin... and some would say how appropriate for Frankson no doubt. Not yet a planning application, a design of this quality would do wonders for Frankston.

<h2>1 Balmoral Street</h2>

<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/Image8_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Old and new. Image © Property Subdivision"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8_14.jpg?itok=8Ymk9I8P" title="Old and new. Image © Property Subdivision" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Not every upcoming Frankston project is of a large scale, with a likely redevelopment of 1 Balmoral Street in the offing. Whether it eventuates or not, a redevelopment demonstrates that equally important to new buildings breathing life into the city centre is the regeneration of existing stock.

<h2>444 Nepean Highway</h2>

<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/f4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The anticipated 444 Nepean Highway development. Images © Doig Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/f4.jpg?itok=OWb2Mev6" title="The anticipated 444 Nepean Highway development. Images © Doig Architecture" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Quoting <a href="http://www.doigarchitecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Doig Architecture</a>, <q>Located on Nepean Highway and overlooking the Kananook Creek and Port Phillip Bay, this site offered an exceptional opportunity to raise the quality of apartments on offer in the city. The design envisaged a mixed use complex providing three tower forms above a four level podium. A new urban courtyard links Nepean Highway to the Kananook Creek precinct and provides an address for Retail, Commercial Office and Apartment entries. The full complement of 300 apartments in 1 and 2 bedroom formats would be delivered in stages, over the podium which offers 4,000sqm of retail and commercial office space. Parking provisions for 350 cars is provided in basements beneath the Nepean Highway level.</q>

Unfortunately no crystal ball exists as to if and when these projects will be delivered but it seems that Frankston won't miss out on the consolidated, higher density and vertical way of living that is now prevalent throughout City of Melbourne and surrounds. In coming days Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/planning-application-446-450-nepean-highway-frankston">will look at a current planning application</a> that will further augment Frankston City into a high-rise enclave.
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