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

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Retail

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H &amp; M, Hennes &amp; Mauritz AB (H&amp;M), one of the world’s largest fashion retailers, known for offering high fashion and quality basics at affordable prices in a sustainable way, has announced that its Sunshine Plaza store will open March 28
Sunshine Plaza will be the site of H&amp;M’s first store to open on the Sunshine Coast and the twelfth in Queensland.
Spanning approximately 2,700 square metres and set over two levels; the much-anticipated store will offer an exciting shopping experience by showcasing apparel, underwear and accessories for Men, Women, Kids and Baby and the Home concept.
“We are excited to announce that our new store at Sunshine Plaza will be opening on the 28th of March” said Thomas Coellner, Australian Country Manager for H&amp;M. “Our customers are number one and we are looking forward to finally introducing the H&amp;M brand to the Sunshine Coast and meeting our new customers on opening day”.
 H&amp;M entered the Australian market in 2014. There are 36 stores nationwide.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/2/14/David%20Jones%20and%20BIG%20W%20will%20open%20on%2028%20March%20as%20part%20of%20Sunshine%20Plazas%20grand%20opening.jpg" alt="">
Sunshine Plaza today announced the grand opening of its $440 million redevelopment will take place March 28.
Since construction works commenced in September 2016, the centre has secured the region’s first David Jones and H&amp;M stores, as well as a new Big W which will all open as part of the redevelopment.
The total expansion adds 35,000 square metres of retail space to the existing centre, and includes over 100 additional specialty stores such as <a id="LPlnk346239" name="x__Hlk780282" href=""></a>MECCA, Sheike, lululemon, Seed Heritage, Endota Spa, JB Hi-Fi, Kathmandu and Baku, with many more to come. 
The significant redevelopment will see Sunshine Plaza become the first super-regional* shopping centre north of Brisbane and is expected to generate 2,300 additional retail jobs for the region on completion.  
Lendlease managing director of retail, Gary Horwitz said they'd achieved is a new benchmark for retail centres across Australia. 
“Sunshine Plaza now has some of the biggest national brands and most sought-after specialty stores, so locals no longer need to travel to Brisbane."
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

H&M to open Sunshine Plaza store in March 2019

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Solvency and accounting firm Worrels has been appointed as voluntary administrator to the makeup brand Napoleon Perdis.
Founder and makeup artist Napoleon Perdis attributed blame to a wide range of factors from “greedy (lenders)” to declining “foot traffic” in the retail sector and entry of multinational fashion brands to the Australian market.
<div>
The company's 56 stores closed their doors for a stocktake on Thursday but reopened today, Friday. 
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More than 600 staff are employed the company, which opened its first store in 1995,
The majority of their storefronts are in NSW, specifically Sydney, however they have at least one store in every capital city across across Australia
Worrels was appointed after the Napoleon Perdis directors were unable to find investors or sell the business over the past few months.
Mr Perdis (pictured below) said in an interview with Your Money, that demand for their products is still strong through partner stores including Priceline and Terry White chemists, as well as its online store.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/2/1/Perdis.jpg" alt="">
He complained that landlords are "squeezing" small and large businesses while they allow "large multinational (businesses) to negotiate much lower per square meter return rate".
"I just want an equal playing field"
"For a couple of years now we've been trying to consolidate our retail structure and there's been enormous costs," he stated.
He disclosed to ABC, "If you estimate that we close 20 to 25 stores, there's three staff per store on average, so close to 100 staff may need to be redeployed, however we're looking to actually see whether we can place them in partner businesses like Priceline."
<div>
An initial creditors meeting will be held within eight days, with a second meeting to determine the brand's future expected to be held within a month.
Several Australian retailers have entered administration during the past 12 months, including <a href="/news/menswear-chain-roger-david-shutting-down-leaving-behind-56-empty-storefronts">menswear chain Roger Daved.</a>
 
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Australian beauty brand Napoleon Perdis may close 20+ stores in voluntary administration

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JD Sports Fashion has opened in Sydney’s Pitt Street Mall at 400 George Street.
The successful fashion retailer signed a 10-year lease for 1,200 sqm of space across both the ground floor and level one.
The ground floor is functioning as a sporting footwear department store, while the upper level showcases a range of sports clothing and active wear.
Michael Cook, Group Executive, Investa said, the new JD Sports store located within 400 George Street and fronting Pitt Street Mall was the perfect fit.
"If the first few weeks are any guide, JD Sports will emerge as one of the strongest retailers in the city,” he said.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/12/20/JD%202.jpg" alt="">
400 George Street is a 51,000 sqm office and retail complex located in the centre of the Sydney CBD.
Adjoining the office building, Sydney Arcade incorporates over 5,500 sqm of retail space and accommodates leading Australian and international retailers such as Hugo Boss, Telstra Discovery Centre, Mont Blanc and a Woolworths Metro store.
Leasing agent, Alex Alamsyah of Knight Frank completed the leasing transaction in conjunction with Invest.
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JD Sports opens in Pitt Street Mall

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Adjoining retail shops in Brighton have sold for the first time in 30 years for a combined $1.75 million.
The sale of the 342 square metre site over the two titles at 617 &amp; 619 Hampton Street stores reflected a yield of 1.9%, and land rate of $5,116 per square metre.
617 Hampton Street was offered with vacant possession while 619 Hampton Street is leased to longstanding tenant Hampton St Organic Produce, returning $33,581 per annum plus outgoings and GST.
Fitzroys agents Mark Talbot and Tom Fisher said the properties were Zoned Commercial 1 and are also subject to a DD012 Overlay with a preferred development height of 11 metres.
“The property attracted strong interest interest from investors, owner occupiers and developers looking for a rare chance to acquire a versatile and underutilised bayside freehold, leading to competition between multiple bidders at auction,” Talbot said.
Talbot said despite tightened lending conditions, vacant retail properties have been trading strongly throughout Melbourne.
“Cashed-up investors and owner occupiers will continue to be active in this space, as the low interest rate environment is expected to remain for some time,” he said.
He noted the recent sale of the former premises of the Brighton favourite Wild Holly Cakes on nearby Bay Street as an example.
“Demand from investors and owner occupiers to gain a presence in the blue-ribbon suburb has spilled over from the dominant Church Street retail strip,” Talbot said.
“The superb fundamentals of an affluent and growing immediate catchment have made a notable impact on one of Melbourne’s most highly regarded suburbs.”
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Adjoining shops in Brighton with development potential sold

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Shopping Centre Managers have been reporting refurbishments are the key to retail success in a competitive market, according to the latest JLL Retail Survey.
The survey shows food operators continue to drive tenant enquiry as well as centre managers continued optimism about factors within their control – refurbishments and tenant remix. However more negative about external factors like fuel prices
JLL’s 19th Retail Centre Managers’ Survey was undertaken in August across 88 JLL-managed retail shopping centres nationally. The majority of centres were neighbourhood and sub-regional centres.
JLL’s Head of Property &amp; Asset Management – Australia, Richard Fennell said, “The Survey showed that 42% of JLL Centre Managers made a positive comment about the recent performance of their centres in relation to an improvement in sales trends, tenant sentiment, foot traffic and/or leasing enquiry."
“JLL Centre Managers continued to view ‘expected changes to tenancy profile’ as having the most positive impact on the MAT outlook or their centres. More than half of survey respondents (61%) stated that it would drive sales growth over the next 12 months, up from 55% in the previous survey in February this year,” noted Mr Fennell.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/31/JLL%20Retail%20Graph%201.JPG" alt="">
When asked what factors were impacting turnover performance, the survey found the strongest positive factors were ‘expected changes in tenancy profile’ (with a net balance of 54%), ‘growth expectations within trade area’ (30%) and ‘planned refurbishment activity’ at 17%
The top three negative factors impacting on turnover have remained consistent with previous surveys. Fuel prices (with a net balance of -26%), competition from other centres (-25%) and online retailing (-20%) remain the top concerns as they have over the past year.
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Refurbishment of shopping centres is leading to trading success: JLL

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Newcastle is attracting Sydneysiders with the lure of more affordable housing and lifestyle benefits, says Colliers International.
The city has around $1.2 billion of government investment projects in the pipeline, including the completed State Law Courts, NewSpace City Campus, transport interchange, light rail construction and the approved International Cruise Ship Terminal.
George Wragge, Director of Retail at Colliers International, said that the uptick in demand can be seen in the approximately $220 million worth of apartment developments that have been completed, with another $326 million under construction.
“People have moved north chasing affordability whilst seeking a different level of lifestyle and amenity,” Wragge said.
“This recent interest has come from a realization that Newcastle is incredibly accessible to Sydney however also offers attractions such as the Hunter Valley, Port Stephens and some of the nation’s best beaches.
“A major, boutique retail precinct is truly all that is missing in this unique seaside City.”
He is hoping this missing piece will be the East End residential and retail development, which is now under construction.
“The new East End Woolworths Metro store is now committed which will cater to the needs of office workers, shoppers, tourists and residents in the Newcastle CBD and will be the catalyst to curating a gentrified urban mix of food and beverage operators, service and convenience-based retailers.”
“Newcastle is no longer a hidden gem but is now exposed to major Sydney based retailers, with more premium restauranteurs and bespoke fashion stores expected to make the move North.”
Michael Chapman, Senior Executive at Colliers International, says that the demographic shifts in the area, plus the recent announcement of international flights out of Newcastle Airport, will bring more people to the city.
“With an increase in jobs of 8.1% predicted by 2020 and a rise in population of 33.4% predicted by 2036, Newcastle may have only just embarked on a journey of growth it hasn’t and may not ever experience again” said Chapman. 
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Boom in Newcastle residential construction to be complemented by new retail centre

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The fundamentals of the Parramatta market are robust, with a growing office workforce and continued increase in the resident population making the city an attractive retail location, according to Ray White’s latest Between the Lines commercial research.
The CBD is in the midst of a development boom and the construction of new commercial and residential towers, together with transport improvements have disrupted the city.   Ray White Commercial’s Head of Research Vanessa Rader said the developments will continue for the next few years, with the major light rail project closing streets and unlikely to be completed until 2023, but it will be worth the wait.   Ms Rader noted, “the high occupancy and growing rents achieved across the Prime Parramatta retail strip are encouraging, with the continued demand highlighting the long-term longevity apparent in this location.” She said the leasing market across the Parramatta CBD strip retail market has been mixed during 2018 and that while demand is high, the uncertainty surrounding the extent of disruption to trade has made negotiations more difficult.
Their research found that gross face rents recorded growth over the past 12 months of 3.54 per cent across the total market.   Ms Rader said Ray White Commercial had surveyed the Prime Church Street retail strip, with the location divided into two zones*.   “Across the total Parramatta Prime strip, vacancy is recorded at just 6.35 per cent. The larger Zone 1 is outperforming, with a vacancy of 5.55 per cent compared to Zone 2, at 10.89 per cent,” she said.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/11/6/parramatta%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge:
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/11/6/parramatta%201.jpg" alt="">
Source: Ray White   “While cafés and restaurants are the main operators along the Church Street strip, the remaining mix is quite different.   “Zone 1 has a total of 43.62 per cent of all space devoted to food retailing, with services featured high at 19.67 per cent.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/11/6/parramatta%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge:
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/11/6/parramatta%202.jpg" alt="">   “This zone also has a somewhat even split to other retailers being clothing and soft goods, personal and household goods and recreational goods representing approximately 8 per cent of the total floorspace each.   “Along Zone 2 we see a greater reliance on food retailing, accounting for 45.91 per cent with a larger grocery component. Services also dominate, representing 41.25 per cent of space given the existence of the council offices and other banks/professional services.”   The ongoing development across the CBD, most notably the light rail project, has raised some concerns by owners regarding the disruption it will cause to their tenancies.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/11/6/parramatta%203.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge:
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/11/6/parramatta%203.jpg" alt="">   Despite this, the future benefits of this and other development across the Parramatta CBD will ensure that this location remains a vibrant retail hub into the future.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/11/6/parramatta%204.jpg" target="_blank">Click here </a>to enlarge:
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/11/6/parramatta%204.jpg" alt="">   *Zone 1 being the area from Parramatta River to the train line (including mall fronted properties) while Zone 2, which is known as the Chinatown end of Church Street, includes the street front retail (excluding Westfield tenancies) up to Campbell Street.In total this represents just shy of 35,000 sqm with 85 per cent represented in the Zone 1 precinct.
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Development boom builds future for Parramatta CBD

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A boutique retail investment in Richmond is set to go under the hammer.
The single level, 110 square metre building on a 140 square metre site at 487 Church Street is currently utilised as a café and has been home to different food outlets for more than 30 years.
Teska Carson’s listing agents George Takis and Michael Ludski said that the property was a owner-occupier opportunity with potential development upside.
They said the property has Commercial 2 zoning which aims to promote offices, appropriate manufacturing and industries, bulky goods retailing, and other retail uses, as well as associated businesses and commercial services.
“Dubbed the innovation capital of Melbourne this area is experiencing increasing demand from tenants and developers looking for city fringe opportunities,” Takis said.
“Recent strong local and offshore investment and the number of projects underway or in the application process in the area are testament to its high desirability.”
Ludski said owner-occupiers and tenants would benefit from exposure to a high level of pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
“This is an exceptional location in terms of close proximity to all essential amenities which will continue to attract tenants and drive strong capital growth. At the same time the property offers the potential for further development (STCA),” Ludski said.
An onsite auction will be held on Thursday, November 22 at 12pm.
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Church Street, Richmond café site set for auction 

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The slump in retail commercial property continues as even stores fronting Paddington's pricey Oxford Street can't attract buyers.
It's the stock at the city end of Oxford Street which is struggling to sell.
The longest on the market has been four mixed use buildings at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/30-36-oxford-street-paddington-nsw-2021-2014233230">30-36 Oxford Street</a> (above) which are described in the marketing an "undeniably the best shop fronts in Oxford Street."
They last sold for $3.98 million in 2014.
The buildings, to be sold in one line across 700 sqm, are currently configured as four retail shops with a first floor residence or office.
Steffan Ippolito at Oxford Agency advised that fully leased the potential gross income per annum is $470,000 plus.
The properties that have over 400 sqm of floor area have been on the market since March.
Another shop front sat idly on the market since April is at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-paddington-502777006" target="_blank">56 Oxford Street</a>, the home of womens clothing store Rodeo Show (below).
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/23/Oxford2.jpg" alt="">
The freehold shop and first floor office with rear lane access is being offered with vacant possession by Richardson &amp; Wrench Commercial.
It last traded for $1,815,000 in 2005.
Continuing up the road to the Woollahra end of Oxford Street, a shop at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/90-oxford-street-paddington-nsw-2021-2013673205" target="_blank">90 Oxford Street</a> on 110 sqm was listed for $2.3 million late last year.
Its re-listing is expected to see a similar guide, which puts it only a few hundred thousand up on its $2 million trade some 15 years ago.
The shop had 50 sqm of internal space over each of its three levels where there's also a one bedroom apartment.
The ground level tenancy expired late last year, and the residential tenancy expired earlier this year.
There are two new listings on the street which has been renowned for retailers and designers over the years.
Opposite Paddington Town Hall just listed is a mixed use retail commercial property on 200 sqm with a six metre frontage to Oxford Street.
The three level building at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/244-oxford-street-paddington-nsw-2021-2014696321" target="_blank">244 Oxford Street</a> (below) has three separate tenancies.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/23/Oxford3.jpg" alt="">
It comprises a 115 sqm retail component on the ground floor, currently vacant, and a second 35 sqm ground floor tenancy at the rear of the property that opens to Begg Lane. That's leased to hair salon Papillion Hair.
Levels one and two are occupied by a DA approved erotic massage parlour.
The Oxford Street retail has an estimated income of $115,500 per annum, while the rear hair salon pays $36,500 per annum. They have a new three year lease.
Levels one and two have a passing income of $70,191 per annum, with a 10 plus 10 year lease.
The property last traded for $3,635,000 in 2011 when it had a guide of $4 million.
The latest commercial premises isn't solely retail. It is being marketed as suiting a variety of uses, including a gym, real estate office, art gallery or corporate HQ.
The underdeveloped site at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/345-347-oxford-street-paddington-nsw-2021-2014719004" target="_blank">345-347 Oxford Street</a> sits next to a Mitre 10 and William Street carpark with frontages to Oxford Street and Regent Lane.
It has flexible B4 mixed use zoning and last sold in 2013 when it fetched $5.5 million.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Prime Oxford Street retail sits on market as more stores listed

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The vacancy rate of bulky goods premises is now quickly dropping as new retail ventures emerge with the resurgence in the local economy and employment levels, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) report.
The valuation firm took a look at the changing faces in the retail sector across the nation. 
"To help revitalise the Mackay CBD, landlords of vacant premises are being encouraged to allow more pop up shops. It is hoped that this concept will give the opportunity for new would be retailers to gauge how successful their venture would be without committing to a long term lease. Hopefully this will stimulate activity in the city centre and will eventually attract small retailers for longer terms," the HTW valuer noted. 
"We are aware that a major real estate agency/insurance broker is well advanced in the relocation of their premises to a central Victoria Street location which will assist in generating more foot traffic around the city centre."
Super Amart has relocated from Highway Plaza, Mount Pleasant to a tenancy of approximately 5,500 square metres in the old Bunnings building in the Greenfields Precinct at Mount Pleasant for a 15 year term, and World Gym has leased approximately 1,870 square metres for a seven year term.
Rents are confidential but incentives were considerable to fill these very large areas.
Beacon Lighting has leased a prominent tenancy at the corner of the Bruce Highway and Heaths Road and Central Queensland’s original discount retailer, Silly Solly’s, is set to make a comeback in the Greenfields Precinct.
"Heading further north, new bulky goods retailers including Fantastic Furniture and Pet Stock have commenced trade in the former Masters building at Richmond. At the time of writing, Anaconda was close to opening. We understand that Spotlight and Nick Scali will also be represented in this complex," HTW noted. 
A Mackay 108 square metre retail showroom plus office has been listed for lease with the price of $32,000 per annum.
The shop situated at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-qld-mackay-501226811" target="_blank">206 Victoria Street</a> comes with kitchenette and bathroom.
It is close to Caneland shopping centre and other major retail shops.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/mackay%202.jpg" alt="">
Another offering is a CBD 56 square metre retail space with lease price of $1300 per month.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-qld-mackay-501806070" target="_blank">The shop 2 at 134 Evan Street </a>features off street customer parking, internal toilet/skink and air condition. 
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