A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

nettletontribe

The suburb name, Wooloongabba (Wulonkoppa) is derived from an Aboriginal expression, variously interpreted as referring to whirling waters, a fight talk place.

Silk One takes centre stage amongst the legendary Brisbane cricket ground, &lsquo;The Gabba&rsquo; and boasts stunning views of the Brisbane River, CBD skyline and beyond.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/silk-one-woolloongabba-825-847-stanley-street-woolloongabba" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/silk-one-825-847-stanley-street-woolloongabba-8880ed962f854ec02936afeb950f183a.jpg?itok=_hl6WyLG" style="width: 580px; height: 363px;" /></a></figure>

Silk One will set the tone for this groundbreaking precinct, as the first of its three exciting stages. Comprising 177 one, two and three bedroom apartments, the best residents&#39; facilities will be incorporated, including a stunning rooftop recreation deck, above ground secure car parking, office and retail space.

Explore the neighbourhood where stunning architecture can be found within walking distance from your front door step, with many heritage listed beauties including the Princess Theatre, Broadway Hotel, Holy Trinity Anglican Church, and shop houses on the main strip.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/silk-one-woolloongabba-825-847-stanley-street-woolloongabba" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/silk-one-825-847-stanley-street-woolloongabba-eb7e4602ac2484ccf2e0d37e630149ed_0.jpg?itok=fj0-fm92" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;" /></a></figure>

Not only is the Brisbane CBD and beauty of the River within walking distance, but major arterial roads and transport options that connect you to Queensland&rsquo;s finest destinations.

Rising amongst Wooloongabba&rsquo;s infamous cricket ground, Silk One will set the tone for this groundbreaking precinct, as the first of its three exciting stages. Comprising 177 one, two and three bedroom apartments, the best residents&#39; facilities will be incorporated, including a stunning rooftop recreation deck, above ground secure car parking, office and retail space.&nbsp;

Designed by Nettleton Tribe Architects, Silk One&#39;s architectural scheme draws inspiration from the angular shapes of metal structure and cables incorporated in The Gabba&#39;s facade.

Surround yourself with grand panoramas of the Brisbane city skyline on your private residents rooftop skydeck with views across the river and a front row seat to every game at The Gabba!

Other features of your rooftop skydeck include a well equipped gym looking out onto the building&rsquo;s impressive resort pool and spa. Surrounded by a timber pool deck and sun lounges, this area is ideal for indulging in a pre-workday dip, or relaxing. The rooftop dining and BBQ areas, give you everything you need to stay relaxed, entertain family and friends, or mingle with your neighbours all from the comforts of home.

The range of one, two and three bedroom, open plan configurations have varying orientations to choose from, all of which benefit from deep balconies. Interiors boast some of the best design elements which you can find in all the little details.&nbsp;

Living spaces are open plan and awash with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and lead seamlessly to your spacious balcony area, perfect for entertaining on those warm Brisbane nights.

Silk One apartments are available in two stylish colour schemes. The first is a darker schematic, reminiscent of New York&rsquo;s famous warehouse lofts, which incorporates dark stone bench tops, custom cabinetry and textured timber look floors. The second scheme is lighter and dominated by ivories, greys and other subtle neutrals, complemented by paler wood-look flooring.&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/silk-lane-woolloongabba-14-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba">Silk Lane is the second stage of the project to be coming to market Mid 2021</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107345]

urban.com.au

Iconic amenities await you at The Gabba’s new neighbour, Silk One.

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The last two weeks have yielded planning news on four separate hotel developments across Sydney, and that trend continues with two additional hotel developments on the agenda.

Sydney's general upswing in hotel accommodation is seeing thousands of new rooms either proposed or at construction over a multitude of sites. Looking to join the fray are Cromwell Property Group and established hotel developer Pro-invest Group.

Cromwell's hotel play encapsulates their existing twin tower office complex at Chatswood's 475-501 Victoria Avenue. The 6,030 square metre site includes a net lettable area of 24, 970 square metres over the two buildings, along with substantial underutilised spaces to major frontages.

It's these areas which Cromwell are looking to exploit with a $75 million build expected to deliver a new high-rise hotel and additional office space on the diagonally opposite corner.

<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/image108.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site aerial and intended ground plan. Images: Philip Chun / Nettletontribe"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="224" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image108.jpg?itok=ujjGDrha" title="Site aerial and intended ground plan. Images: Philip Chun / Nettletontribe" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site aerial and intended ground plan. Images: Philip Chun / Nettletontribe</figcaption></figure>While the additional office area comes by way of a four level stand-alone building primarily fronting Victoria Avenue, project architect Nettletontribe has also added a 17-storey hotel development fronting Brown Street. 156 hotel rooms are included within the tower.

The 60.9 metre building also includes a variety of amenities such as a restaurant, gym, pool, bar and conference centre. The hotel's inclusion will also spark a major refurbishment and landscaping of the site's ground floor 

Cromwell's intentions to deliver a hotel on the Victoria Avenue site would see an eventual operator pitched into the busy Chatswood hotel sector; Quest, Sebel, Mantra, Meriton and Sikari currently have a presence in the suburb which is little more than 10 kilometres from Sydney's CBD.

Meanwhile, Mascot's 2-8 Sarah Street is drawing closer to development at the hand of Pro-invest Group.

<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/image106_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" View Robey Street and O'Riordian Street. Planning image: SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image106_1.jpg?itok=WGEhin_Y" title=" View Robey Street and O'Riordian Street. Planning image: SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>View Robey Street and O'Riordian Street. Planning image: SJB</figcaption></figure>Already with a healthy backlog of hotel developments across Australia and New Zealand, the investment firm has taken the Mascot site back to planning with a redesign in place to accommodate operator Holiday Inn Express. SJB is responsible for the project's design.

The latest submitted plans seek an increase in hotel room numbers, expanding to 178, plus external facade changes which provide the development with a lighter, brighter exterior. Initial delivery timelines for the development had a completion date targeting the last quarter of 2019.

622 guests can be housed within the proposed hotel at any given time, further boosting the already strong short stay accommodation precinct adjacent to Sydney Airport. 

Owing to the demand in Mascot for hotel accommodation, Sydney Airport's owners are considering <a href="https://www.afr.com/business/sydney-airport-eyes-more-hotel-developments-after-mid2017-mantra-opening-20170217-gufgtp">creating a portfolio of hotels</a> on airport land, whilst developer Savelle earlier this year <a href="/news/savelle-supersize-their-mascot-mixed-use-development">adjusted its Mascot mixed-use development</a> to include 187 dedicated hotel rooms and 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/image107_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Earlier site design for comparison's sake. Image: Pro-invest Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="321" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image107_1.jpg?itok=Lf9Qr_fu" title="Earlier site design for comparison's sake. Image: Pro-invest Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Earlier site design for comparison's sake. Image: Pro-invest Group</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Cromwell and Pro-invest refine their Sydney hotel intentions

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Journal Student Living's move on 500 Swanston Street headlines a fresh drive of student accommodation projects looking to call Carlton home.

The $60m build would be Journal's second Melbourne project after 18-32 Leicester Street which is in the hands of Icon Construction. Journal Student Living is backed by South African company Redefine Properties.

500 Swanston Street as the current home of the CFMEU accounts for a 1,388sqm land plot and finds itself in the midst of a handful of student accommodations buildings. METIER3 have designed the newest member of the pack to include 710 student beds across 18 levels.

Spanning 57 metres in height, the development will also include heavily activated lower levels and roughly 1,700 square metres of student communal space.

<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/image43_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Three distinct volumes constitute the new 500 Swanston Street. Planning image: METIER3"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="439" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_7.jpg?itok=4vQhi4g0" title="Three distinct volumes constitute the new 500 Swanston Street. Planning image: METIER3" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Three distinct volumes constitute the new 500 Swanston Street. Planning image: METIER3</figcaption></figure>METIER's first student accommodation design enters the Apartments.com.au Project Database just as Urbanest has been confirmed for the Carlton Connect Initiative, which will account for the former Royal Women's Hospital further north along Swanston Street.

Aside from University of Melbourne's new School of Engineering, office space and a mass of retail space, the project jointly designed by Hayball and Woods Bagot will also take on 528 student beds across 274 rooms. Urbanest will manage the new wing of the development which spans 15 levels.

The project at 700 Swanston Street adds to Urbanest's two existing campuses and two further campuses in development.

Reports on 700 Swanston Street were handed down last night; the expected outcome being City of Melbourne's support final for the project.

<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/image42_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Urbanest's latest located at the Carlton Connect Initiative. Planning image: Hayball/Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="481" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42_4.jpg?itok=e9MBKrdi" title="Urbanest's latest located at the Carlton Connect Initiative. Planning image: Hayball/Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Urbanest's latest located at the Carlton Connect Initiative. Planning image: Hayball/Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Also on the City of Melbourne's agenda last night was Cedar Pacific's bid to transform Carlton's 123-135 Bouverie Street into one of the city's larger student accommodation projects.

The nettletontribe-designed project has gone through design alterations, which includes an increased setback above the onsite heritage building, a reduce the number of student rooms to 579 and an increase in communal space as a result of internal rearrangements. 123-135 Bouverie Street too has been recommended for approval, subject to conditions. 

There are currently a dozen student accommodation projects within Carlton under development.

<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/image44_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bouverie Street's likely addition. Planning image: nettletontribe"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="337" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image44_3.jpg?itok=OFqXIoev" title="Bouverie Street's likely addition. Planning image: nettletontribe" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bouverie Street's likely addition. Planning image: nettletontribe</figcaption></figure>
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Carlton's magnetic appeal for student accommodation strengthens

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A heritage listed building on an otherwise vacant Bouverie Street site is set to host one of Melbourne's larger student accommodation projects, falling under the UniLodge Bouverie St banner.

Across 123-135 Bouverie Street, dual towers are proposed that would add a further 596 rooms to the Melbourne market. Nettleton Tribe are the design force behind the proposal, with institutional investor Cedar Pacific backing the development.

The Art Deco style building onsite carries a distinct clinker brickwork pattern and is considered significant for both its historic and aesthetic attributes. Formerly the Modern Printing Company Factory, it will find new life as a retail/cafe space under the new plans.

<h2>123-135 Bouverie Street application summary</h2>

<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/image93_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="401" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image93_4.jpg?itok=tukEm3V8" title="Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Vacant 1,616sqm site save for the heritage Modern Printing Company Factory</li>
	<li>Proposed: 14 storey residential building over two wings and 45.2m high</li>
	<li>596 rooms</li>
	<li>All rooms within UniLodge Bouverie St available on either a 6 or 12 month contract</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 7,806sqm</li>
	<li>Facilities include rain garden, recreation area, theatre, gym, lounge areas, common study areas</li>
</ul>
UniLodge Bouverie St will cater for the University of Melbourne's Parkville students. Working under a 'self-catered hostel model', prospective students will find themselves in "a collegiate community with economic room sizes matched with a significant investment in common spaces and recreational areas."

Every level includes a communal space of some sort, with the rooftop including an outdoor garden and BBQ, herb/vegetable gardens and sky lounge.

After multiple similar projects for Deakin University and the recent completion of UniLodge @ VU in Footscray, 123-135 Bouverie Street is the latest project for Nettleton Tribe. Their Bouverie Street design consists primarily of a metallic two-tone aluminium cladding, highlighted by black steel fins and white aluminium trim.

<h2>A week for announcements</h2>

<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/image95_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="97 Franklin Street's defunct design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_2.jpg?itok=WeoXpi6X" title="97 Franklin Street's defunct design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>97 Franklin Street's dated design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball</figcaption></figure>123-135 Bouverie Street's unveiling goes hand in hand with other significant news regarding Melbourne's student accommodation sector that has filtered through this week.

Scape Student Living has applied to build the world's tallest student-occupied tower on Franklin Street. Replacing approved plans for a 62 storey, 218m largely residential tower, Scape's intentions are for 740 student beds, 146 city living units and 11,500sqm of commercial space within the mixed use project.

Also this week, a fresh design has been added to the Apartments.com.au Project Database for Urbanest's approved tower at 599-605 Swanston Street. The creation of Hayball, Urbanest's latest Melbourne tower now presents as a golden tower with strong vertical elements across its facade.

The project is still expected to carry in excess of 600 student beds.
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Inter-war and student to the core: another whopping student accommodation project unveiled

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Submitted earlier this year to the state planning body DTPLI, only recently have Maribyrnong City Council published the respective reports for 26-34 Buckley Street and 4 Neilson Place online.

Bought to our attention via the Apartments.com.au forum, both projects have seen Maribyrnong City Council provide feedback, although no final decision has been handed down by the State Planning Minister on either.

<h2>26-34 Buckley Street, Footscray</h2>

<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/image135.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 26-34 Buckley Street, Footscray. Image © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image135.jpg?itok=ZsWPRG1O" title="Artist's impression of 26-34 Buckley Street, Footscray. Image © Rothe Lowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 26-34 Buckley Street, Footscray. Image © Rothe Lowman</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site owner: Dobinson Nominees</li>
	<li>Architect: Rothe Lowman</li>
	<li>16 storey residential building at 50 metres</li>
	<li>182 dwellings with 96 x one-bedroom, and 81 x two-bedroom dwellings plus 5 x townhouses</li>
	<li>Below/above ground car park: 122 spaces &amp; 125 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Ground floor retail at 235.4sqm</li>
</ul>
Maribyrnong City Council have recommended the application be refused by the Minister for Planning on the following basis:

<blockquote>
It is considered that the proposal does not meet the overall intent and objectives of the State and Local Planning Policy Frameworks, including Planning Scheme Amendment C125. It is therefore considered that the application should not be supported and a letter of objection be forwarded to the Minister for Planning
<cite>City Development Special Report Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>4 Neilson Place, Footscray</h2>

<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/image134.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 4 Neilson Place. Image © SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image134.jpg?itok=AAImENqH" title="Artist's impression of 4 Neilson Place. Image © SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 4 Neilson Place. Image © SJB</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site owner: Adelaide Banner Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: SJB</li>
	<li>15 storey mixed use building at 48.6 metres</li>
	<li>135 dwellings with 55 x one-bedroom, and 80 x two-bedroom dwellings</li>
	<li>Above ground car park: 112 spaces &amp; 96 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Two commercial tenancies at 97sqm food/cafe &amp; 95sqm retail</li>
	<li>Level 5 communal area</li>
</ul>
Maribyrnong City Council have recommended the application be approved by the Minister for Planning on the following basis:

<blockquote>
The proposal, while three storeys in excess of the preferred height is considered to present an acceptable built form and design response for the site given its context adjacent to the railway line. The generous setbacks from the side and rear boundaries enables sufficient light and air into dwellings and enables adjoining properties to be equitably developed without impacting on the buildings own amenity.
<cite>City Development Special Report Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Join the Conga line?</h2>

These two applications have the potential to join the ballooning number of apartment tower proposals in Footscray. Of the developments shown below, only two (top right) are concept images indicative of what is likely to be built, while the remainder represent a fraction of the brigade of developments which have been approved.

Footscray's proximity to the CBD and abundant land zoned for redevelopment such as the Joseph Street precinct should ensure that at some point in the near future the ever increasing queue of apartment development will come to fruition. The area has seen stuttered redevelopment of late, but when will the development dam gates really open - that is the question.

<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/image139.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images copyright to respective parties"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="948" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image139.jpg?itok=bpZWLwtz" title="Images copyright to respective parties" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images copyright to respective parties</figcaption></figure>
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