ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods is progressing its plans for its Southbank arts precinct site.&nbsp;

The developer has filed plans, which are now with the&nbsp;Department of Transport and Planning, for a new 20-level tower at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/141-151-sturt-street-southbank-vic-3006">141–151 Sturt Street</a>, a 2,718 sqm block opposite the Habitat Filter sculpture.

The proposal seeks to demolish the two-level&nbsp;commercial building, including a small supermarket and medical tenancies, and create a new building with 180 apartments and a focus on an&nbsp;active public realm and arts integration.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Southbank site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76a72db6-91ef-43ae-827d-a9cfa72893d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Site.png?VersionId=DZgtB4K6BswVh0QtCs3iLjXaLp0CbcEb" />

&nbsp;

There will be a full mix of apartment configurations, including 28 studio apartments, 16 one-bedroom, 104 two-bedroom, and 32 three-bedroom units.

Retail, creative arts, and residential amenity functions are integrated across the lower levels. A food and drink tenancy is planned to front Dodds Street, while a retail tenancy fronting Sturt Street will be accessed via an elevated walkway. The first floor includes a substantial 734 sqm creative arts space, envisioned to support Melbourne’s growing cultural and digital industries.

Architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has put together the plans. In their&nbsp;Urban Design Report they highlighted the project’s ambition to embed itself within Southbank’s evolving cultural fabric.

A central feature of the design is a through-block link connecting Sturt and Dodds Streets, landscaped with native plantings and embedded with universal access ramps.

“The ramp has been thoughtfully integrated as the primary access point, ensuring universal accessibility for all users,” the report noted, with the link offering “a direct response to the urban planning scheme of creating more green spaces within our communities”.

<img alt="Southbank podium" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4d24b1b2-d69c-4a11-a11d-ec6df432221c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium.png?VersionId=geWoJyZDmPSLODZ_.PNJ0LvpOmyyCdpo" />

The building’s podium form responds to the mandatory height limits along Dodds Street and maintains a fine-grain interface to adjoining developments. Above the podium, the tower is articulated with recessed balconies and a focus on views toward the CBD and surrounding arts institutions. A communal rooftop recreation deck and indoor lounge are positioned on level four, adjoining seven apartments and providing over 900 sqm of resident amenity space.

Vehicle access and loading will be provided via Dodds Street, with 155 resident car spaces located across two basement levels and the first three above-ground floors. Bicycle storage is more generous, with 226 spaces distributed across resident, staff and visitor needs.

Rothelowman describes the architecture as “humanist,” with ground-level interfaces designed to encourage social interaction and provide a dignified entry for both residents and passers-by. “All street interfaces are crafted to invite and nurture human connections,” the design report states. “The façade transitions to a human scale, providing an approachable and engaging streetscape”.

Cedar Woods, while well-known for its large communities it develops outside of Australia's capital cities, they have recently developed in Melbourne's inner-ring before. They are approaching completion at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/88-leveson-north-melbourne-88-leveson-street-north-melbourne-vic-3051">88 Leveson</a>, just 15 townhouses in the heart of North Melbourne.

Joel Robinson

Cedar Woods progresses with new apartment plans in Southbank arts precinct

Brisbane developers Core Property Partners and Vector Property Australia has teamed up for Brisbane's newest apartment development.

The duo identified <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a> as their preferred suburb, on the fringe of the Gabba Precinct, where they've just revealed BANKSII, 72 apartments opposite Raymond Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5481]

The one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments will sit in a glass-wrapped building that will also feature a rooftop with an&nbsp;infinity-edge pool, a BBQ area and alfresco dining spaces, sun lounges, and a sauna, as well as a resident-only gym and a ground-floor cafe.

Rhett Williams, Director of Vector Property Australia, said the project will lift the quality of the East Brisbane community and set a new benchmark.

"In Brisbane’s current property landscape, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/banksii-east-brisbane-169-wellington-road-east-brisbane-qld-4169">BANKSII</a> stands out through its emphasis on lifestyle-oriented living, connectivity and sophisticated design," Williams says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5479]

The 10-level building has been designed by MAS Architecture. Their designs were inspired by the native Banksia flower, with the architecture and interiors reflecting the organic symmetry of its namesake flora. MAS has interpreted this throughout the building’s curved form, façade detailing and interior palette.&nbsp;

The building’s flowing geometry and natural tones are complemented by large balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing, maximising cross-breezes, daylight and views over the city, parklands and river.

“Having a strong narrative for a building helps us architecturally,” MAS noted. "We can choose colours that come off that species of flowers. The trunk and the trees and the flower elements all are now visible in our joinery on the inside and in our architectural finishes on the outside."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5485]

Apartments will feature timber floors, soft porcelain tiles, brushed bronze fittings, and stone benchtops with warm veining.&nbsp;

Kitchens feature premium SMEG appliances and generous storage, while bathrooms have been designed as calming retreats with curved cabinetry and twin sinks in the master ensuites.

The building will feature a suite of rooftop and wellness amenities. Residents will have access to an infinity-edge pool, BBQ and alfresco dining areas, sun lounges and a rooftop sauna.&nbsp;

A residents-only gym will be located on the podium level, while a ground-floor café and landscaped laneway will further activate the site and improve neighbourhood connectivity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5488]

BANKSII will rise from a prime Wellington Road site, with the building oriented to overlook the adjacent Raymond Park and take in extensive city views. It is also on the doorstep of key&nbsp;lifestyle infrastructure, including the future Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, The Gabba stadium, and the planned Brisbane Live arena.&nbsp;

Public transport options, including ferry, bus and rail - including the future Cross River Rail Woolloongabba station - are all nearby, supporting a car-optional lifestyle just minutes from the CBD.

Williams said the team spent over a year searching for the ideal site before securing this location.

"We were attracted to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a> as it is a vibrant and growing community that offers a perfect balance of urban convenience and natural beauty with the parklands and river on our doorstep.”

The project is part of the broader Woolloongabba Games precinct, which is undergoing significant investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. This urban renewal, coupled with infrastructure upgrades, is expected to enhance long-term liveability and capital growth in the area.

Given the wide max of configurations, BANKSII is expected to suit everyone from first home buyers and investors to families and downsizers.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136432]

BANKSII sales launch in booming East Brisbane apartment market

The Minns Labor Government will deliver Sydney’s first new heavy rail station in more than a decade – enabling up to 10,000 new homes by rezoning land around Woollahra and Edgecliff stations, right next to the CBD, to tackle the housing crisis and rebalance growth across the city.

Recent reports by the NSW Productivity Commission have warned that Sydney is losing twice as many young people as it is gaining, while also finding that Woollahra is the most feasible Local Government Area (LGA) in New South Wales to build new housing.

Despite this, housing approvals in Woollahra consistently lag well behind other LGAs, and the population has declined by 11 per cent over the past 50 years while Greater Sydney as a whole has grown by 74 per cent.

The new station that will be an eight-minute trip from Sydney CBD, will be located on the Eastern Suburbs train line in Woollahra, where a station build was started in the 1970s but never completed.

To enable the delivery of new homes the NSW Government will lead a rezoning of Woollahra and Edgecliff stations similar to other state led rezonings to allow additional homes to be built around the stations.

Affordable housing will also make up a proportion of development on the site with the final amount of affordable housing required, to be determined as part of the rezoning process.

The area surrounding the new station is within walking distance of major green and recreational space including Cooper, Trumper, Rushcutters Bay and Centennial Parks.

The Eastern Suburbs train line between Bondi Junction and Sydney CBD also has the lowest passenger usage rates during the AM peak of any line on the Sydney network, with only 43 per cent of operating capacity during the AM peak currently being utilised by passengers.

Sydney Water and Infrastructure NSW have confirmed there is capacity in the water and wastewater systems to accommodate the proposed 10,000 dwellings without major upgrades.

The rezoning is expected to take around two years and will further support the Government’s housing targets that rebalance the delivery of new homes around existing infrastructure.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Next stop Woollahra train station - delivering up to 10,000 new homes in the heart of Sydney

<section data-element_type="section" data-id="b086848">
Fresh off completing its mixed-use Malvern project Malvern Collective, Kokoda Property Group has acquired a prime site on Richmond's Bridge Road.

They are planning a mid-rise residential development with&nbsp;integrated wellness amenities and a vibrant ground-floor retail and dining offering.

The site, at&nbsp;487–495 Bridge Road, spans&nbsp;1,650 sqm with 50 metres of dual frontage across Bridge Road and Palmer Street. It is currently leased to Adairs, and has a large retail building and 20 onsite car parks.
</section>

<section data-element_type="section" data-id="534a164">
Kokoda Property Group’s acquisition forms part of a broader phase of growth in Melbourne, building on momentum from the completion of Malvern Collective and the recent purchase of a Burnley Street site for the developer’s first commercial project.&nbsp;

Mark Stevens, Kokoda Property Group’s Founder and Managing Director, said that the company’s Bridge Road site acquisition signals confidence in a city that is re-accelerating.

“Melbourne is regaining momentum,"&nbsp;Stevens said.

"After a cautious period post-COVID, we’re seeing buyer sentiment stabilise and capital leaning back into well-located, quality projects. Victoria now benefits from deep builder capacity and competitive delivery pricing, creating a rare opportunity to bring design-led inner-city developments to market without compromising on craftsmanship.

“Richmond ticks all the boxes for us – connectivity, culture and everyday amenity – making Bridge Road the perfect address for an amenity-rich, multi-use development."

<img alt="Kokoda" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a8de51d-8092-480a-8b7e-e081816692c2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-29%20at%208.54.27%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VRHpV5.6beOu2cieKHWrw3ErMPuVOAuj" />

Envisioned as an “urban lantern” the building will bring a distinctive new presence to Bridge Road with a sculptural retail frontage, designed to honour the street’s heritage character while contributing to its renewal.

Stevens said the acquisition reflects the developer’s commitment to design-led addresses in Melbourne’s inner city.

“Drawing on Richmond’s rich heritage and dynamic character, we’ve envisioned a contemporary building that respects the past while elevating the way people live today. With dual frontages, curated ground-floor spaces, and a focus on wellness, this project will contribute to the neighbourhood’s evolution, appealing to both downsizers and a new generation of professionals.”

Kokoda Property will now progress concept design ahead of a future planning process.
</section>

Mark Stevens, Kokoda Property Group’s Founder and Managing Director, said that the company’s Bridge Road site acquisition signals confidence in a city that is re-accelerating

First look: Kokoda secures Richmond site for new apartment development

Gold Coast developer Drew Group is fast approaching sell-out at its Main Beach apartment development, Lagoon Main Beach.

In the last nine months, Drew Group and sales partner Pezet Matheson have secured 31 sales totalling over $75 million, as the two-tower development advances towards completion under the expert eye of Hutchinson Builders.

“Today's buyers are more discerning than ever," Drew Group Managing Director Jon Drew says.

"It's essential to provide something truly unique that sets a development apart, and we believe Lagoon has achieved just that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=193023]

Just over 50 per cent of recent&nbsp;sales have been to local buyers, reflecting the deep trust and connection within the Gold Coast community that Drew Group has developed over the years.

Demand has been particularly robust at the top end, with two of the three exclusive penthouses already sold, alongside five sub-penthouses. Only seven apartments remain in Lagoon's Signature Series — one&nbsp;penthouse and six sub-penthouses.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=284864]

Drew Group has also removed the much-maligned sunset clause from all contracts at Lagoon. The sunset clause — although rarely invoked, yet on occasion known to have been — allows developers to take back contracts on apartments should the building not be completed within the timeframe specified in the contract.

Pezet Matheson Co-Director Jayde Pezet says the fact Lagoon is&nbsp;within a year of completion, and has no sunset clause in contracts, provides certainty to buyers.

"This is paramount in the current market," Pezet says.

Drew Group has committed to providing the highest level of security inclusions — none more impressive than the Ubiquity Access Control System, a cutting-edge facial recognition technology that is one of the most state-of-the-art keyless entry systems on the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=190743]

One of the biggest drawcards to Lagoon has been the size of the apartments.

"It is unlikely that any future new development in Main Beach will be able to offer such spacious living at this price point," Drew says.

"Today's buyers are more discerning than ever, carefully evaluating amenities like gyms, spas, workspaces, and beach lockers, along with quality finishes. It's essential to provide something truly unique that sets a development apart, and we believe Lagoon has achieved just that."

Lagoon is set to complete construction in mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108747]

Lagoon Main Beach approaches sell-out as local buyers drive $75m in sales

Health Care

<html><body>
Open-air car parks opposite Victoria University's Footscray Park campus have been selected as the site for the new Footscray Hospital with the Andrews Government today making the announcement that if they're re-elected, construction will commence in 2020.

The May budget allocated a sum of money to purchase the land required for the new hospital and today it was announced the new facility will have 504 beds, a number well up on the current facility's capacity of 290 beds at the Gordon Street site.

Spring Street says the new facility will allow 15,000 more people to be treated per annum with a further 20,000 emergency admissions also possible.  The state government also says there will be an expansion of specialist facilities with a focus on mental health care expansion as well.

<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/footscray_hospo_1.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Render of the new Footscray Hospital - image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/footscray_hospo_1.jpeg?itok=Gu1aXB94" title="Render of the new Footscray Hospital - image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Render of the new Footscray Hospital - image: supplied</figcaption></figure><a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/western-suburbs-hospital-health-hub-planned-for-victoria-universitys-footscray-campus/news-story/64e58732e81dc165d8eb140ad2c08550">Reports</a> from December 2017 suggested that Victoria University will also invest in a redevelopment of its Footscray Park campus to the tune of $300 million in order to establish a new 'College of Health and Biomedicine'.

Other reports similarly referred to the new hospital site also including a private hospital.  The state government statement only focuses on a new public hospital for Footscray.

Despite having seven universities with major campuses in Melbourne, only three offer medicine courses at Monash University (Clayton), The University of Melbourne (Parkville) and Deakin University's School of Medicine based at its Waurn Ponds campus on the outskirts of Geelong.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Incredible announcement today - re elected Labor Government will build a $1.5 bill new Footscray Hospital. Thank you <a href="https://t.co/etUPZGVkjt">pic.twitter.com/etUPZGVkjt</a>
— Western Health (@western_health) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/western_health/status/1048715530704642048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a>
</blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Western Health operates Footscray Hospital, as well as Sunshine Hospital, Williamstown Hospital and Sunbury Day Hospital, will operate the new currently under construction Joan Kirner Women's and Children's hospital adjacent to Sunshine Hospital.

The existing Footscray Hospital site on Gordon is co-located with Western Private and should the new public hospital be built at the corner of Geelong and Ballarat Roads in Footscray Park, the existing site is likely to gain interest from parties interested in redeveloping the site.

The proposed new site of the Footscray Hospital, the existing site and the nearby Kennards redevelopment zone are all linked into Footscray station by the 82 Moonee Ponds-Footscray tram.
</body></html>

Alastair Taylor

New Footscray Hospital location unveiled

<html><body>
The State Government yesterday pledged another $562 million toward greater Melbourne's already hefty multibillion-dollar hospital development pipeline.

Contingent upon the incumbent government being re-elected, funds will flow toward an expansion of Frankston Hospital. Initial plans would realise an 11-storey dual-winged hospital next to existing Frankston Hospital facilities that would provide an all-encompassing health services complex.

The expansion includes 120 new beds, two new operating theatres, a maternity ward, obstetrics ward, women’s clinic, children’s ward and special care nursery. Two floors are dedicated to mental health services, with an integrated cancer ward and day clinic set to treat patients who would otherwise travel to Melbourne for care.

Billed by Premier Andrews as "the biggest upgrade to an outer suburban hospital in the state’s history," construction is earmarked to begin in 2020 and would span four years, creating 1700 jobs over the life of the build.

<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/image54_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist impressions of new Frankston Hospital. Image: Committee for Greater Frankston"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="167" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image54_10.jpg?itok=1h3gRAmB" title="Artist impressions of new Frankston Hospital. Image: Committee for Greater Frankston" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist impressions of new Frankston Hospital. Image: Committee for Greater Frankston</figcaption></figure>Frankston Hospital is the latest in a lengthy line of hospital projects backed by both the public and private purse, all of which are aiming to cater toward a rapidly expanding Melbourne population.

Approximately a dozen major hospital projects are at various stages of development across greater Melbourne, with a quartet currently under construction. Headlining the build list is the $200 million <a href="/developments/st-albans-vic-3021">Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital</a> located adjacent to Sunshine Hospital; designed by Lyons, Lendlease has taken to project to structural completion with lengthy fit outs to come.

Kane Constructions are overseeing <a href="/developments/malvern-vic-3144">Cabrini's Gandel Wing</a> expansion, Built are working on an <a href="/developments/east-melbourne-vic-3002">expanded Epworth Freemasons Hospital</a> in East Melbourne whilst Watpac are overseeing a $135 million expansion of Casey Hospital on Melbourne's fringe.

The projects with approval that are yet to begin construction are also sizeable developments.

Epworth have a <a href="/news/epworth-eastern-rises-to-match-box-hills-booming-populations-needs">60 metre hospital tower</a> planned for Box Hill, and future expansion in mind along Erin Street at Epworth Richmond. Also John Holland has been installed as the head contractor for the new Melbourne Heart Hospital at Clayton; the $543 million project has a completion date of mid 2022 in mind.

<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/image266.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sunshine Hospital and Cabrini Malvern construction during August"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="251" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image266.jpg?itok=MYlMoVT-" title="Sunshine Hospital and Cabrini Malvern construction during August" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sunshine Hospital and Cabrini Malvern construction during August</figcaption></figure>A number of mooted projects are in the pipeline.

Soon to become the medical epicentre of Melbourne's northern suburbs, Epping may play host to as many as three new large-scale hospitals. Northern Hospital is about to <a href="https://www.nh.org.au/northern-hospital-tower-stage-2/">see a new wing come to fruition</a>, Generation Healthcare REIT and Healthe Care Australia are poised to bring a new <a href="https://www.afr.com/real-estate/generation-healthcare-builds-big-at-epping-20170911-gyev2a">$320 million hospital</a> to the suburb whilst Prime Medical Property Group and Riverlee also have hospital development intentions in the area.

Western Health's Footscray Hospital has also been rumoured to be on the more to a new home adjacent to the Victoria University Footscray campus.

The most recent hospital to reach completion was Werribee Mercy Hospital; Multiplex undertook construction works on the Architectus-designed project with a construction value of $66.5 million.

<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/image267.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Werribee Mercy Hospital upon completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="261" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image267.jpg?itok=TvzWkcf-" title="Werribee Mercy Hospital upon completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Werribee Mercy Hospital upon completion</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

silvermb

Big ticket health projects keep pace with a ballooning Melbourne population

<html><body>
With links onsite that span back to the 1890's, St Vincent's Private Hospital is now pursuing a new phase of expansion in order to keep pace with Melbourne's growing population.

St Vincent's Private is now considered at capacity, with plans afoot to create an 11 storey building across 59-61 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy. With the development's anticipated construction cost approaching $60 million, the overall value of the expansion weighs in at $94 million.

Included in the proposal before City of Yarra is provision for new consulting suites, 91 new multi-day beds for patients, 12 new same-day beds, additional operating rooms and pre/post operation stations.

Set above a new podium to both Victoria Parade and Brunswick Street, the building's overall height is pencilled in at 43.36 metres.

<h2>A need for expansion</h2>

<blockquote>
It is now vital for St Vincent's Health Australia to undertake a major expansion project at this flagship private hospital, including an additional 91 net beds and eight (8) operating theatres, to ensure that it will have the capacity to meet future demand and compete within key market segments. No major footprint expansion of SVPHF has occurred over the past 44 years.
Frequently during the working week SVPHF faces 'bed block' and non-elective or urgent private patients are redirected to other hospitals. In addition all private consulting suite space at SVPHF is fully occupied. Additional private consulting rooms and theatres are vital to the future of SVPHF and improved healthcare to the community.
<cite>Planning report, Meinhardt</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/image229.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Vincent's Plaza perspective. Image: BLP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="323" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image229.jpg?itok=e7lUY_jx" title="St Vincent's Plaza perspective. Image: BLP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Vincent's Plaza perspective. Image: BLP</figcaption></figure>To facilitate the proposed expansion, demolition is required across a number of sensitive buildings.

The existing hospital at 59-61 Victoria Parade would partially make way for the new development, as would 77 Victoria Parade, a.k.a. the former Eastern Hill Hotel. The latter is on the Victorian Heritage Register, with the development team seeking removal of its western wing to the rear of the building.

Partial demolition of Edensor House is also proposed, and mainly confined to the Victorian Heritage Register-listed building's rear. Full demolition is sought for 63-71 Victoria Parade (the former Easthill House), with the building considered to be Individually Significant from a heritage perspective.

<h2>Building design</h2>

Shades of natural and midnight copper cladding would provide the design highlight over the east and north facades, with the balance a clad consisting of compressed fibre cement sheet cladding in a banded finish.

The southern facade is predominantly glazed, with elements of purple, charcoal and white, and its angular nature suggesting that it lends in some small way from the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre which was completed earlier in 2016.

<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/image228_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Brunswick Street perspective. Image: BLP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image228_0.jpg?itok=kkcOuz_7" title="Brunswick Street perspective. Image: BLP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Brunswick Street perspective. Image: BLP</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The proposed new building complements the existing building in terms of height and form but contrasts in colour and material to express it as a contemporary insertion into the existing fabric. Together the existing and the new hospital form a pair of buildings that create a distinct identity to the hospital and an appropriate backdrop to the scale of St. Vincent's plaza.

The proposed podium facade along Victoria Pde complements the fenestration of both the three storey heritage building as well as the existing hospital podium and acts as a transition element in terms of both distribution of openings as well as parapet height

The proposed materiality of the podium responds to both the glazed brickwork of existing hospital and the painted and render brick facade of the East Hill Hotel by utilising a porcelain stone clad finish to complement the existing heavy materiality of the streetscape 

<cite>Urban context report, Billard Leece Partnership</cite>
</blockquote>

Also in the works is an expansion of the existing multi-storey car park at 93-99 Victoria Parade.

Of more interest from a design perspective than in terms of what benefits it could provide to the larger community, an expansion would see the already colourful structure capped with three new levels of parking. 185 additional car parking spaces would be added if approved.

The new levels would be finished in metal screens, accentuated by rectangular openings featuring small planter boxes.

<blockquote>
The design intention is to mimic balconies of an apartment building making reference to the many examples in Melbourne of residential and commercial spaces sitting on top of multi deck carparks. The screen consists of closely spaced vertical steel angles powder coated in multiple colours. The colours ranges change as the screen presents itself to different solar orientations.
<cite>Urban context report, Billard Leece Partnership</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/image230.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An expanded 93-99 Victoria Parade. Image: BLP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="344" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image230.jpg?itok=OJkFLsLg" title="An expanded 93-99 Victoria Parade. Image: BLP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An expanded 93-99 Victoria Parade. Image: BLP</figcaption></figure>
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St Vincent's substantial expansion plans unveiled

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With little fanfare, six notable planning applications have been given the OK via City of Melbourne over recent weeks.

From mid July through to last week, one after the other are now free to proceed at the whim of the developer. And for three of the six a start to construction is precisely what is at the forefront of the developer's thinking.

The most recent approval is that of 269-271 Spring Street, otherwise known as the new home of Australian Unity. Approved last week, the brisk planning process which barely latest three months saw a mildly compromised design outcome for the tower, which is located above sensitive heritage buildings.

Early expectations had the tower operational by some point during 2018.

<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/1474011971626.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spring Street will gain a new addition"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="804" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1474011971626.jpg?itok=dykwJbFH" title="Spring Street will gain a new addition" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spring Street will gain a new addition</figcaption></figure>Also hitting the ground running is 205-223 Pelham Street, with demolition on the Carlton site almost complete. GSA Group will now push the student accommodation project through to immediate construction, after its approval during July.

The DKO Architecture designed building will carry 244 beds over 13 levels, with 152sqm of retail at street level. An early development cost for the project was a nominal $32.5 million.

Also subject to a recent construction tender, 5-17 Flemington Road was given the nod by City of Melbourne last month. Purchased by Singapore-based Centurion Corporation for $60 million during 2013, the current RMIT Village which provides student accommodation will be greatly expanded under the freshly agreed to permit.

Created by Hobart-based firms Architects Designhaus and Jones Moore Architecture, 147 additional beds will soon be added to the Flemington Road frontage.

<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/image2_5_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first of Besgate Group's Melbourne projects to receive the green light"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_5_0.jpg?itok=68TrmiDQ" title="The first of Besgate Group's Melbourne projects to receive the green light" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first of Besgate Group's Melbourne projects on Swanston Street</figcaption></figure>September has provided Besgate Group will good news; the first of the developer's three current Melbourne apartment projects is clear to proceed. Designed by Jackson Clements Borrows, 558-566 Swanston Street initially sought 179 apartments over 17 levels when it first entered planning during late 2015.

Besgate Group's remaining projects are with the State Government owing to their size; the duo are either side of 200 metres in height and yet to be approved.

Another residential project to find favour is 684-688 Elizabeth Street, with a planning permit granted during August. The SJB Architects-designed tower is now capable of adding 120 apartments to the growing stock along a stretch of Elizabeth Street directly north of the CBD.

Rounding out the six is Epworth HealthCare's freshly stamped plans for an overhaul and expansion of the Freemasons Hospital. With a nominal development cost of $55 million, the project first entered planning during December of last year.

A joint design between Silver Thomas Hanley and John Wardle Architects, the expansion revolves around a new facility dubbed the Grey Street Centre which will accommodate spaces for education/training, day procedure and theatre rooms and medical consulting suites. 

<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/image9_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Epworth East Melbourne's newly approved wing"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="370" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_15.jpg?itok=coVFoa0M" title="Epworth East Melbourne's newly approved wing" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Epworth East Melbourne's newly approved wing</figcaption></figure>
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City of Melbourne approves six major projects

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Box Hill Hospital's new 52,000 square metre facility was officially opened on on 12 August 2014. The $447.5 million redevelopment and expansion of the existing Box Hill Hospital is a vanguard project of sorts, marking the first completed facility in the current wave of new hospital projects throughout greater Melbourne which are either well into construction or due to commence.

Together these projects represent billions of dollars worth of investment into the State's health infrastructure, and rightfully so as Melbourne and Victoria's population continues to grow (and age) rapidly.

<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/bhh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new Box Hill Hospital Building A"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bhh.jpg?itok=Y-aHlCpH" title="The new Box Hill Hospital Building A" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new Box Hill Hospital Building A</figcaption></figure>Below are five large-scale hospital projects currently under construction. Clockwise they are the <a href="http://www.vcccproject.vic.gov.au/">Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre</a>, <a href="http://www.peninsulahealth.org.au/frankston-hospital-stage-3/">Frankston Hospital Stage 3</a>, <a href="/news/monash-childrens-hospital-begins-construction">Monash Children's Hospital</a>, <a href="http://www.warringalprivate.com.au/Redevelopment/">Warringal Private</a> and <a href="http://www.epworth.org.au/About-Us/Major-Projects/Richmond-Redevelopment/Pages/homepage.aspx">Epworth Pod 4</a>. The combined project value of these five projects represents a $1.5 billion (approx) investment into new local public and private hospitals, hundreds of new beds and the advancement in treatment and technology standards.

Ancillary to the core purpose of the structures is the design flair which has been employed. Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre holds prime position on the Haymarket roundabout and Silver Thomas Hanley/DesignInc with McBride Charles Ryan have designed an astounding building.  Lyons have produced Frankston Stage 3 while field specialist Silver Thomas Hanley are responsible for the three remaining projects.

Add the recent Royal Children's Hospital build and the internal/external design quality of Melbourne's healthcare facilities has taken a quantum leap forward.

<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/image70h.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Five hospitals currently under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70h.jpg?itok=ZdU08B-Q" title="Five hospitals currently under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Five Melbourne hospitals currently under construction</figcaption></figure><h2>Upcoming projects</h2>

Healthscope have recently lodged plans for an expansion of John Fawkner Hospital located in Coburg. Works would see an expanded existing hospital, including four level extensions to both Glencairn Avenue and Jessie Street.

<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/image66jf.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An expanded John Fawkner. Image © Billard Leece"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66jf.jpg?itok=Fb6BG_tA" title="An expanded John Fawkner. Image © Billard Leece" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An expanded John Fawkner. Image © Billard Leece</figcaption></figure>In an altogether larger project Healthscope have initiated works on Knox Private Hospital's expansion with Watpac last week announcing it had been awarded an initial $45 million contract to undertake works onsite.

The overall Knox Private masterplan conceived by Woods Bagot calls for the facility to become the second largest hospital in Victoria, with online documents available via <a href="https://www.knox.vic.gov.au/Files/Planning/DPO_Amended_Drawings_-_submitted_to_Council_January_2014.pdf">Knox City Council's website</a>. The four-year $180 million project would see 750 construction jobs created with an additional 1000 permanent positions once the expansion is complete.

According to <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/knox-private-hospital-to-get-180m-upgrade-create-1750-local-jobs/story-fngnvlxu-1226707677700">Knox Leader</a> "An extra 240 beds, four new surgical wards, a new labour delivery unit, bigger emergency department and 350 extra parking spots" will be included.

<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/image67knox.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Knox Private. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67knox.jpg?itok=fGrKPBs_" title="Knox Private. Image © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Knox Private. Image © Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Elsewhere fringe facilities <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/generation_healthcare_to_build_hospital_f4M59DF9xDBdYUQndIcomO">Casey Private</a> and Epping Hospital are preparing for sizeable expansions, with Casey catering for three new buildings one of which is a second dedicated hospital. <a href="http://www.epworth.org.au/about-us/major-projects/freemasons-redevelopment/Pages/homepage.aspx">Freemasons East Melbourne</a> is due for a $59 million expansion while Royal Melbourne's masterplan also envisages for the addition of new buildings, potentially including a 20 level tower fronting Royal Parade, thus allowing growth for on of Melbourne's most important facilities.

Lead image credit: <a href="http://www.floodslicer.com.au/">Flood Slicer</a>.
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Expanding Melbourne's healthcare infrastructure

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A valuable piece of Victorian infrastructure officially began work on Tuesday this week, with the first sod of soil turned to signify construction of the new Monash Children's Hospital. Located at Monash Medical Centre Clayton (MMCC), the new 230-bed, purpose-built Monash Children’s Hospital marked construction with Victorian Premier, Dr Denis Napthine joining festivities.

Conceived as a response to the growing need to service Melbourne and Victoria's increasing population, the facility will be one of two statewide tertiary paediatric facilities, and the only venue in the state which provides foetal surgery, thalassemia and paediatric cardiac electro-physiology.

Head contractor Lend Lease Building (Baulderstone) expect the concrete structure to rise skyward by October with dual tower cranes erected either side of the Christmas break. The concrete structure is expected to be finished by August 2015 with full completion roughly a year later, owing to the lengthy fitouts when constructing hospitals.

<h2>Project details</h2>

<ul>
<li>Clients: Monash Health &amp; Victorian Department of Health</li>
	<li>Architect: Silver Thomas Hanley</li>
	<li>Builder: Lend Lease Building (Baulderstone)</li>
	<li>30,000sqm paediatric hospital: Australia’s third largest children’s hospital</li>
	<li>230-bed facility</li>
	<li>completion late 2016</li>
	<li>Cost estimate: $250 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Construction facts</h2>

<ul>
<li>14,000 cubic metres of concrete will be used in construction</li>
	<li>1500 tonnes of reinforcement</li>
	<li>35000m2 of plasterboard will be used</li>
	<li>1000 doors will be installed</li>
	<li>35000m2 of floor finishes including vinyl and carpet</li>
	<li>35000 cubic metres of dirt will be removed</li>
	<li>2-year construction program</li>
	<li>Two tower cranes on site</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/10557445_698604163544184_6428558200327830895_n_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hospital internal render. Image © monashhealth.org"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="442" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/10557445_698604163544184_6428558200327830895_n_1.jpg?itok=ktQXv_sW" title="Hospital internal render. Image © monashhealth.org" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hospital internal render. Image © monashhealth.org</figcaption></figure><h2>Children's joins the TRF</h2>

Monash Children's isn't the only project worthy of note currently under construction at MMCC. With a tower crane visible from far and wide, Lend Lease Building (Baulderstone) have advanced the Translational Research Facility (seen below) to the first floor structure.

Designed as an incubator for knowledge and research, the facility "Will bring together basic and clinical researchers grouped by theme; integrated transitional research laboratories; a dedicated clinical trial centre; a general research centre and common use research platforms." The end result is a research centre designed to enable world-class clinical research, "Translated into best-practise, patient-centred healthcare" according to Monash Health.

<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/mhtp-trf_north.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Monash Health Translation Precinct – Translational Research Facility. Image © monashhealth.org"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mhtp-trf_north.jpg?itok=Csp4ix5Y" title="Monash Health Translation Precinct – Translational Research Facility. Image © monashhealth.org" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Monash Health Translation Precinct – Translational Research Facility. Image © monashhealth.org</figcaption></figure>Valued at $84 million, the Woods Bagot-designed facility secured $71 million via Federal Government funding with the remaining $13m being provided by the project partners. The Translational Research Facility is due for completion late 2015.
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