<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood</a>’s northern edge continues to sharpen its reputation as one of Melbourne’s most compelling cultural precincts, where established creative institutions, leading hospitality, and independent fashion converge within a tightly held inner-city neighbourhood.

Set within this evolving pocket, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/derby-street-by-milieu-collingwood-4-derby-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Derby Street by Milieu</a> draws on a location that balances proximity to some of the inner north’s most influential destinations with the quieter, tree-lined character that defines the streets edging East Melbourne. Positioned just moments from both Smith and Gertrude Streets, the address sits on the periphery of Collingwood’s cultural core, offering immediate access without the intensity of its busiest frontages.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145576 project_image_fid=355945]

Gertrude Street, in particular, anchors the area’s identity as a destination for Melbourne’s leading food, art and fashion. Within a short walk, venues such as Marion, Cutler &amp; Co, IDES and the Builders Arms Hotel define a tightly curated dining scene with enduring citywide appeal, complemented by a strong fashion and retail presence including Havn, Le Labo and a selection of independent boutiques.

Nearby, institutions such as the Australian Print Workshop and Collingwood Yards sustain a constant rhythm of exhibitions, performances and creative output, embedding art and culture into the everyday fabric of the neighbourhood.

Smith Street, running parallel, extends this offering with a broader mix of hospitality and nightlife, maintaining its status as one of Melbourne’s most active inner-urban strips.

Beyond these high-energy streets, the immediate surrounds shift in tone. Derby Street and its neighbouring blocks are defined by low-rise heritage terraces, mature trees and a settled residential character. Fitzroy Gardens and Carlton Gardens are both within walking distance, alongside the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, bringing together green space and cultural landmarks within minutes of home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145576 project_image_fid=355985]

Connectivity remains a key advantage. The CBD sits within easy reach, accessible by tram along Smith Street in around 20 minutes, while also remaining close enough to walk or cycle, supported by the inner north’s established bike network.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a>’s long-standing connection to Collingwood underpins the project’s approach. With a portfolio that includes multiple nearby developments across Bedford, Peel and Napier Streets, the developer brings a sustained understanding of the area’s character and evolution. Derby Street continues this trajectory as a collaboration with award-winning Melbourne-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studio-bright">Studio Bright</a>, marking the practice’s first multi-residential project in the inner north and reflecting a shared focus on design integrity and contextual response.&nbsp;

Balancing connection to the neighbourhood with a sense of seclusion and refuge, Derby Street by Milieu embodies a level of care and craft typically reserved for single residential projects. Comprising 22 residences across six storeys, with two to four-bedroom configurations priced from $1.15 million, the project is currently under construction with completion expected in late 2027.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145576]

Joel Robinson

Derby Street by Milieu, at the top end of Collingwood

A rare new apartment development in the Blue Mountains is the latest in a string of State Significant Development Applications submitted through the New South Wales Government's Housing Delivery Authority.

A total of 270 apartments are being proposed for the 1.16-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/blue-mountains-alpine-retreat-142-150-narrow-neck-road-katoomba-nsw-2780">142–150 Narrow Neck Road in Katoomba</a>, a parcel of land adjoining the former Katoomba Golf Course. The site was acquired for $3.85 million in 2021 by private developer VDM Prime.

The apartments, comprising a mix of serviced apartments, affordable housing, and traditional build-to-sell product, will be spread across eight low-rise buildings, along with a separate building for a new restaurant, arranged around a green spine that leads to a central park.

<img alt="Katoomba" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee9a2072-f465-44f1-9076-80c9c8ecca02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-22%20at%209.20.21%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4bT0vQ7j_syl65wcrJmHGm3m5pTvwrY_" />

The Urban Design Report by Atlas Urban says the vision is to create a "contemporary mountain precinct that is responsive to its escarpment landscape, heritage character, and community context."

"The development responds to the current housing supply and affordability challenges identified under the NSW Housing Delivery Authority (HDA), providing a balanced mix of standard, affordable, and short-stay accommodation," the report noted.

"By introducing a variety of dwelling types and tenures, the proposal supports intergenerational living, local workforce retention, and greater housing choice within an area constrained by topography, heritage, and environmental protections."

Of the 270 units proposed, 52 will be serviced apartments. The remainder will comprise 54 studios, 121 one-bedroom units, 39 two-bedroom apartments, and four three- to four-bedroom residences.

<img alt="Katoomba" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f704508d-1bdf-4170-955d-0256652402a7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-22%20at%209.56.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=TzarHMO4gTOsblCqsbJQkvMqWj9nu2Au" />

The Design Report, by VDM Prime and appointed architect Antoniades Architects, noted that the design seeks to "provide a built form outcome that is highly considered, respectful and contextually fitting, whilst contributing positively to an evolving precinct."

"The site offers three frontages and the opportunity to provide a meaningful interface with the public domain environment. the design has a sympathetic response to streetscape and the green open space that surrounds the site."

The report states that the buildings are broken up to establish an appropriate bulk and scale, emphasised through height and setback strategies and defined through articulation that supports the transition of precinct granularity. It also notes that a central communal open space is established through the site to enhance the social dynamic and access to amenity, including natural ventilation and light to the apartments. The east and west frontages receive solar access during the morning and afternoon, whilst maximising views to the green open space.

The site adjoins the recently completed Yarrabee Katoomba development, comprising 24 duplexes that were completed last year and sold through McGrath Projects.

The relatively new Housing Delivery Authority pathway established by the NSW Government allows developers to submit State Significant Development Applications through a fast-tracked state process, effectively reducing reliance on local council approval pathways and aiming to accelerate housing delivery across New South Wales.

First look: Nearly 300 apartments pitched on former Katoomba golf course site

In Melbourne’s established inner east, the qualities that define a traditional house, width, height, and access to open ground, are increasingly difficult to replicate in new residential developments. Larger landholdings are scarce, and with them, the ability to create apartments that extend beyond compact, internalised layouts.&nbsp;

In <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/kew-vic-3101">Kew</a>, where the residential fabric is shaped by generous setbacks and mature tree canopies, that tension is especially visible.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ricdanic-investments-pty-ltd">Ricdanic</a>&nbsp;is bringing forward a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings at 9–11 Wimba Avenue, Kew. Comprising six homes at No.9 and seven at No.11, the project sits on a quiet, tree-lined street just off Cotham Road.&nbsp;

Each apartment has been planned with a level of independence more commonly associated with standalone dwellings, balancing privacy with the efficiencies of apartment living.

Architect Chris Idle, who has been practising for over two decades, says projects like this don’t come along often.

“There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs,” he explains. “To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The internal planning begins with width. Living areas extend beyond five metres, allowing furniture, circulation, and glazing to sit comfortably within the same zone without compression. Ceiling heights shift from three metres through to five metres in select areas, changing the sense of scale as you move through the apartment. These proportions are paired with double-glazed windows and fully electric systems, balancing volume with performance, supported by a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.&nbsp;

From the main living space, the apartments open directly outward. Large sliding doors connect to private gardens averaging 125 square metres, with some residences also incorporating balconies of around 60 square metres. Rather than acting as secondary outdoor zones, these areas sit flush with the internal floor level, extending the usable footprint of the home and allowing for multiple modes of use, whether for quiet daily routines or larger gatherings.&nbsp;

The landscape, led by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>, reinforces this relationship. Across the site, 23 different plant species have been introduced, including a mix of native and established varieties, arranged to maintain privacy while preserving sightlines and light access. Gardens are not treated as decorative buffers but as functional extensions of the apartments, shaped to accommodate movement, seating, and informal use over time.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366265]

Architecturally, the project draws from Kew’s historic residential language. Handmade bricks by Krause define the exterior, grounding the buildings within the material palette of the suburb, while interior finishes, stone, timber flooring, and restrained detailing, continue this approach internally. Architect Chris Idle describes the intent as long-term rather than stylistic: “We wanted it to feel timeless.”&nbsp;

This emphasis on durability extends to how the buildings are accessed and secured. Entry is managed through keyless systems, with a double-gated basement incorporating number plate recognition for vehicle access. Each residence is paired with a private lock-up garage accommodating two to three cars, alongside storage, while all entry points are monitored continuously. These measures sit alongside EV readiness and fully electric infrastructure, aligning the project’s operational systems with its long-term design outlook.&nbsp;

The setting remains central to how the development is experienced. Located within walking distance of Kew Junction and close to established schools including Carey Grammar and Xavier College, the address benefits from existing infrastructure while maintaining a residential quietness that is increasingly difficult to find at this scale.&nbsp;

Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/sinjen">Sinjen</a>, with a 10-year structural guarantee, with completion targeted for mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

Inside Wimba Ave, Kew’s garden-scale residences designed for space and permanence

High-end Sydney developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has secured approval for one of its latest Mosman projects, one of the first developments approved by Mosman Council under the NSW Government’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy.

The approval represents an important step in delivering well-considered housing next to established village locations on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, in line with the intent of the Low and Mid-Rise zoning framework. 
&nbsp; 
There are currently 13 other sites lodged within Mosman Council under the policy, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-29-heydon-street-mosman-nsw-2088">Heydon Street</a> among the first to receive development consent. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Founder and Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the project reflects a considered and appropriate response to its planning context. 
&nbsp; 
“This approval demonstrates how carefully considered, design-led development can align with the objectives of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy," Brown said.

"The scheme has been designed to respond sensitively to its village setting, with a built form, scale and level of amenity appropriate to its local context. The determination reflects a balanced and considered planning outcome, with Council recognising the capacity for this site to accommodate additional housing within a well-located and established precinct.”

<img alt="Abadeen secures first approval under low and mid-rise housing policy for Heydon Street, Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92811ce3-02e8-44fc-996e-c61ae039bd3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Heydon%20Street%20Aerial.jpg?VersionId=ZHJVuWQT64QcdrFJx963pFWFzTX7lI2I" />

The Heydon Street approval followed extensive consultation with Mosman Council, with Abadeen working closely with Council throughout the assessment process.

The approved scheme comprises 27 residences, with only four per floor, creating a low-density living environment. The building will include four half-floor penthouses designed to capture views across Middle Harbour, Sydney Harbour and the surrounding district.&nbsp;

The project is expected to appeal to downsizers and owner-occupiers seeking house-like proportions, privacy and local convenience. There will be north-facing Middle Harbour views from the second level upward. It is also just a flat 100-metre walk to Bridgepoint Shopping Centre, which will appeal to owner-occupiers and in particular downsizers.

Two-bedroom residences are expected to be priced from $1.99 million when sales launch later this year. 
&nbsp; 
Joe Tack, CEO at Abadeen, said the outcome reflects both the quality of the site and the broader need for well-located housing. 
&nbsp; 
“This is a highly considered site within a highly established local setting, offering elevated views and strong connectivity. The project has been designed to respond to that context, delivering a scale and quality of housing aligned with both the planning framework and evolving market demand.” 
&nbsp; 
“This approval is particularly significant in the context of Mosman, where new housing supply has historically been limited. While it represents the first approval of this scale in Mosman to be achieved in over 50 years, it is importantly located within a well-established residential location, in close proximity to the established commercial amenity of Spit Road and Mosman Village. It reflects strong confidence in Abadeen’s approach to design, delivery and community integration, while contributing to the delivery of much-needed housing in a highly constrained market.”

Abadeen has an established track record across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with recent completions including KOYO in Crows Nest and ENSO in Neutral Bay.

In Mosman, Abadeen recently completed The Hampden, with Mosman Residences on the corner of Spit Road and Clifford Street scheduled for completion later this year. Construction has also commenced at Burran Residences, comprising three full-floor ultra-premium homes positioned just 50 metres from Balmoral Beach, with residences expected to achieve prices in excess of $20 million. Two further projects are also progressing through planning within the local government area.

Abadeen secures first approval under low and mid-rise housing policy for Heydon Street, Mosman apartment development

Apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> is one of the latest entrants to the Gold Coast development market, with its debut project set to be one of the most boutique offerings on Chevron Island in recent years.

Martello has unveiled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aere-chevron-island-18-20-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Aere Chevron Island</a>, a collection of 33 large-scale two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments across an 18-storey building on Mawarra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367517]

The developer has placed a strong emphasis on wellness, briefing architecture firm Raunik Design to embed this philosophy into the project. It is a direction <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> plans to carry through its future developments along the coast.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> has positioned Aere as a continuation of its human-centric development approach, with a focus extending beyond amenity to the fundamentals of layout, natural light, and spatial planning. Promax Construction has already been appointed to deliver the project, with construction expected to commence in the coming months as part of the group’s broader expansion into South East Queensland.

Rising above the low-rise fabric of Chevron Island, Aere’s design emphasises generous internal proportions and uninterrupted outlooks, with residences oriented to capture coastal, skyline, and waterway views. Interiors prioritise open-plan living, with large-format glazing and carefully considered transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367508]

The upper levels are dedicated to larger-format homes, including four-bedroom residences designed as half-floor offerings. These layouts prioritise separation between living and sleeping zones, along with increased privacy and storage, features more commonly associated with detached housing than traditional apartment product.

Aere’s private resident amenity spaces centre on wellness. A rooftop level will incorporate a heated swimming pool, sauna and spa, alongside a residents’ lounge, dining areas and barbecue spaces, while additional shared facilities throughout the building include a gym and yoga area.

The inclusion of both social and quieter retreat spaces reflects a broader shift in higher-end apartment design on the Gold Coast, where developers are increasingly responding to owner-occupier demand for buildings that support long-term living rather than short-stay use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367814]

Aere is positioned within walking distance of Chevron Island’s village centre along Thomas Drive, as well as the HOTA cultural precinct via the Green Bridge, connecting residents to parklands, galleries, and event spaces.

For <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a>, Aere represents the first in a series of planned Gold Coast developments, with the group also exploring opportunities in other coastal precincts, including Kirra and Palm Beach.

The move north comes as sustained population growth and infrastructure investment continue to reshape South East Queensland, with developers increasingly targeting boutique, design-led projects in established lifestyle pockets. Aere’s relatively small scale and emphasis on spatial quality position it within this emerging segment of the market.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143932]

Martello™ enters Gold Coast market with wellness-led Chevron Island development Aere

Woolworths

Fabcot, the development arm of supermarket giant Woolworths, has gone back to the drawing board to increase the size of their Kangaroo Point, Brisbane, mixed-use development.

They've had local architecture firm Cottee Parker Architects add a further seven levels to the previous development approval, taking the total levels now to 17. That will see the apartment numbers increase from 62 to 130.

The project, slated for 25 Ferry Street which will also front&nbsp;Deakin and Prospect Street's, will have a mix of just seven one-bed apartments, 75 two-bedders, 44 three-bed units and four four-bed apartments.

<img alt="Woolworths Kangaroo Point" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5045db25-d04a-4f76-98b3-fc407f1ab58e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-05%20at%2010.11.20%20am.png?VersionId=_jq.9.Vbgj7DTqWb.9Yq9EMrA68876BC" />

There will be a rooftop pool, gym, and outdoor barbecue space with seating.

The tower will rise above a full-line, 2,240 sqm Woolworths.

Town planner Urbis noted the change application was through further design planning, and the acquisition of another lot to make a 3,197 sqm site.

"The site is in a well-positioned location that boasts strong connections to the river, CBD, Howard Smith Wharves dining precinct, the Story Bridge and a variety of walking and cycling paths," Urbis noted in their submission to the Brisbane City Council.

<img alt="Woolwor" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8add64c3-12ad-4794-a426-3495f3145e24" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-05%20at%2010.11.15%20am.png?VersionId=iY9o4TX0cAECzyxlEiQg2kL1msvlYJcq" />

Approval for the former 10-level, 62-apartment project had been granted in December 2021.

The Kangaroo Point project is yet another application submitted by Fabcot so far in a busy 2022. In May they submitted plans in Sydney to&nbsp;reinvigorate an existing retail space in Neutral Bay Village, activating a pedestrian laneway and plaza and building 91 apartments above a Woolworths. The proposal also includes extensive office space.

It was revealed late last year that Woolworths were venturing into the residential development space, with the first announcement a $200 million mixed-use building in Sydney's Waterloo.

The project, to be known as Bourke &amp; Young at 923-935 Bourke Street, is being drawn up by&nbsp;Sydney architects Bates Smart. It is expected to have some apartments dedicated to affordable housing for key workers.

Fabcot plans similar residential and retail projects in Elsternwick and Glen Iris in Melbourne and at Scarborough in Perth.

&nbsp;

It was revealed late last year that Woolworths were venturing into the residential development space, with the first announcement a $200 million mixed-use building in Sydney's Waterloo

First look: Woolworths plot larger Kangaroo Point mixed-use apartment and retail development

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Gone are the days of the weekly shop – now, <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a> residents don't have to go far to pick up their daily fresh fruit and vegetables, from the brand new full-line Woolworths.

The recently completed 3,800 square metre supermarket spans two levels across the podium of the building's village-style shopping precinct, alongside an espresso bar, pizzeria, fish and chip shop, as well as Vietnamese and Chinese restaurants and a BWS bottle shop.

The Woolworths supermarket also offers 120 dedicated parking spaces for community use.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" height="2283" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank-8d107fa0c127e0b10a58e6df6b938e07.jpeg" width="3425"></a><a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" height="2283" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank-36af995925b09a89a044bf59a0174d21.jpeg" width="3425"></a>

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" height="1308" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-03-24_at_12.07.12_pm.png" width="2084"></a>

OSK Property's Sales and Marketing Director Scott Jessop explained that the supermarket delivers required amenity to the growing Southbank population. 

<blockquote>
"Southbank's population is expected to exceed 50,000 by 2036, which is 174 per cent higher than the current population. It is essential that the community is able to access basic everyday amenity so that the area's expanding population can be adequately accommodated.

“We know Southbank residents have been waiting for a full-line supermarket in their local area and we are happy to be able to provide this much-needed amenity, along with other amenities for the community. This is in line with our vision to create an integrated mixed-use lifestyle precinct for Melbourne Square residents and the Southbank community."
</blockquote>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929]
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Olivia Round

Vibrant new retail precinct joins Woolworths at Melbourne Square

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Developer Time &amp; Place and Woolworths are set to lodge plans for a mixed-use project in Melbourne's Glen Iris.

Time &amp; Place and Woolworths secured 173 Burke Road earlier this year for $29.25 million, and this week will submit plans to the City of Stonnington for a mixed-use community on the 4,306 sqm site which was bought as a two storey office building.

The plans by Carr Architecture will see 90 apartments located above a full-line, state-of-the-art Woolworths and adjoining BWS at street level. There will be one, two and three bedroom terrace-style apartments.

Each apartment will feature its own external entry, a hero of the project's design, which allows for dual aspect and improved daylight/crossflow ventilation, while also providing an energy efficient end-product.

The project will be targeting 4-Star Green Star Rating from the Green Building Council of Australia.

Time &amp; Place principal Edward Pearse says that the design that has been put forward does not look like a traditional apartment block.

<img alt="" height="1877" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/time_place_woolworths_2.jpg" width="2000">

"It takes cues from suburban living and Australian Modernism to improve this under-utilised portion of the Burke Road."

"The design considers careful integration of the residential and retail elements to ensure a quality living and shopping experience for all end-users.

“We’ve looked to bring the best of traditional terraced homes – from their sustainable design and down to the entry experience – to a higher density project.”

The site has been identified for regeneration as part of the Council’s strategic plan for Burke Road.

Subject to planning approval, the development would create around 250 jobs as well as 120 ongoing retail jobs once complete.

Woolworths State Development Manager Don Foulds said the development application delivers a clear vision to revitalise the site and deliver a thriving, contemporary and convenient mixed-use development.

“Our proposed designs aim to reflect the unique local character of Glen Iris while delivering on Stonnington Council’s vision for high quality housing and convenient shopping for the area.”

The full-line Woolworths will face Burke Road, with the Hope Street frontage to feature an open-air stairway leading to the residences, preserving amenity for neighbours.

<h2>Developments Nearby</h2>

<a href="/buildings/hurstmon-3-hurstmon-street-malvern-east">Hurstmon, Malvern East</a>

Address: Hurstmon - 3 Hurstmon Street, Malvern East

Just over one kilometre away down Wattletree Road in Malvern East is Hurmston, a low-rise apartment development near Malvern Road.

Developed by Landream and designed by Telha Clarke, the apartment building of 39 features one, two and three bedroom apartments starting from $449,000.

<img alt="" height="1123" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hurstmon.jpg" width="2000">

The front of the property features carefully curated landscaping that mirrors the surrounding area.

Ground floor residences feature landscaped courtyards that can extend a living space into an expansive entertaining area.

 

 

 
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Developer Time & Place and supermarket giant Woolworths are set to lodge plans for a mixed-use project in Melbourne's Glen Iris.

Developer Time & Place and Woolworths to lodge plans for mixed-use Glen Iris project 

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A Woolworths-anchored shopping complex in South Australia's Playford has sold for $21.81 million to a local private investor.
The deal on the convenience-based shopping centre at 297 Peachey Road, Munno Para, in Adelaide’s north, was brokered by Savills Australia’s Rino Carpinelli and Steven Lerche.
They anticipated strong interest from investors after limited neighbourhood retail opportunities came to market last year.
Mr Carpinelli said, “occupying 2.032 hectares and generating about $1,613,400 per annum, the successful buyer recognised the ongoing value of this asset.” 
“The centre offers significant depreciation benefits backed by a secure income stream and long weighted average lease expiry of 9.12 years by area.”
The centre presents a gross lettable area of 6,390 sqm comprising the full-line Woolworths supermarket and associated BWS liquor store, which are operating under a new 12-year lease.
There is also a mix of 17 speciality tenants, including a Smokemart, newsagency, café, medical centre and Terry White Pharmacy.
Mr Lerche said shopping centres like Woolworths Playford were rarely traded in South Australia.
Woolworths Playford is part of the $1billion urban development project, Playford Alive, which is being jointly managed by the City of Playford council and state government.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Savills sell Woolworths anchored Playford shopping complex to local SA investor

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Woolworths has divested its self-anchored Banskia Grove shopping centre in Perth’s north eastern growth hub for over $27 million to an offshore private investor. 
Comprised of a net lettable area of 5,721 sqm, the centre at 103 Ghost Gum Boulevard features a nine-year WALE.
It is currently underpinned by 11 specialty tenants, including Terry White Chemist, Plus Fitness and The Coffee Club.  
Woolworths will continue to occupy 3,850 sqm on a 12-year lease with 10 additional five-year options, allowing the lease to run until 2081.  
Anthony Del Borrello and Richard Cash of CBRE’s Western Australian Retail Investments team negotiated the sale of the newly constructed neighbourhood shopping centre. 
Following a five-week international Expressions of Interest campaign, the complex sold to a private Singapore-based investor for $4,768 per square metre on a passing yield of 5.96%. 
The campaign attracted strong enquiry, with the team fielding over 90 enquiries and seven offers. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/24/2212DAZ_2894.JPG" alt="">
Mr Del Borrello commented that this transaction demonstrated continued demand from offshore investors interested in well-positioned, quality retail assets anchored by strong national tenants.
“In this time, over $70 million worth of retail assets have transacted, including Kelmscott Plaza at $19 million and Coles Vasse, which sold for $19.6 million – both properties were acquired by private Asia-based investors,” Mr Del Borrello said.  
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Private offshore investor buys $27 million Perth shopping centre

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Woolworths Metro will move into the purpose built 1700 sqm ground floor retail space of Granville Place, according to SHOKAI Ausbao and Develotek.
Granville Place is a $400 million mixed-use development in Sydney’s Central River City.
It is one of the Parramatta region’s largest developments.
The design for its ground floor space includes a supermarket, restaurants, café's, retail and speciality stores, childcare and a medical centre.
“We previously joined forces with Woolworths at our The Quay, Haymarket development, so we know the Australian supermarket industry giant is a perfect fit for Granville Place’s higher residential living standards and amenity requirements,” says Jason Gao, from Shokai Ausbao.
<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/2019/6/20/AUS0853_Granville_S040_EXT_PodiumDay_Final.jpg" alt="">
Justin Nolan, General Manager, Metro Woolworths said, “we’re delighted to be apart of the new Granville development in Western Sydney and look forward to welcoming customers in 2020.”
Construction has already begun on site, with the completion of Stage 1 – Towers A, B and the retail precinct – expected by the end of 2020. 
Stage 2 is expected to be complete in 2021.
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Woolworths to open store at Granville Place in 2020

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EXPERT OBSERVER
After weeks of <a href="https://www.insideretail.com.au/news/macquarie-report-says-up-to-60-big-w-stores-may-need-to-close-201903" target="_blank">speculation</a>, Woolworths has confirmed it will close 30 of its Big W stores in Australia, as well as two distribution centres. This represents <a href="https://www.woolworthsgroup.com.au/page/media/Press_Releases/woolworths-group-market-update/" target="_blank">about 16%</a> of its 183-strong network.
The obvious culprit, and the one identified by many analysts, is online shopping.
As one <a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/retail/woolworths-announces-closure-of-30-big-w-stores-after-slow-profit-improvement/news-story/f8ff7222fded595ec627dd7d9a45e7e8%5D" target="_blank">industry analyst explained</a>: “The physical department store footprint is likely to continue to shrink as online sales penetration increases further.”
Online shopping is certainly a factor, but it is not the primary reason for Big W’s troubles.
Though online shopping in the department and variety stores category is growing fast (by 29.6% in 2018 according to the NAB <a href="https://business.nab.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/NAB-Online-Retail-Sales-Index-January-19.pdf" target="_blank">Online Retail Sales Index</a>, the total amount of money spent online by Australian shoppers – A$28.8 billion – is still only about about 9% of what is spent in traditional bricks-and-mortar stores.
<hr>
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/267227/original/file-20190402-177163-y5vxk8.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/267227/original/file-20190402-177163-y5vxk8.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
Online retail sales growth by industry in the 12 months to December 2018, <a class="source" href="https://business.nab.com.au/nab-online-retail-sales-index-quarterly-update-december-2018-33296/" target="_blank">NAB Online Retail Sales Index</a>
More important to Big W’s woes is the growth of the so-called category killers, which are disrupting the entire discount department store business model. It a threat to which Big W has failed to respond with the same agility of rival <a href="https://www.cmo.com.au/article/658773/kmart-turnaround-king-takes-chairman-post-gyg/" target="_blank">Kmart</a>.
<h2>Departed departments</h2>
If you’re old enough you may remember getting your wall paint mixed in the Big W hardware department, or buying car accessories from its automotive department. There was also a large “sight and sound” department filled with televisions, sound systems, videos and CDs. Discount department stores truly lived up to the idea of a variety store.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fT8i7hpLGDs?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" frameborder="0" width="440" height="260"></iframe>
‘You know the price is low, everyday’: A television advertisement for Big W in 1994.
But the profitability of all these market segments for department stores has been eroded by the growth of “<a href="https://www.insideretail.com.au/news/category-killers-breaking-hearts-everywhere-201709" target="_blank">category killers</a>” – retailers specialising in the same product categories.
Examples include Office Works for office supplies, Rebel for sports equipment, JB Hi-Fi for audiovisual, Super Cheap Auto for car parts, and Bunnings for hardware. All have taken market share from the discounters. These stores compete on price and have superior range, and shoppers trust the expertise of staff working in a specialist shop.
<h2>Speed of change</h2>
The popularity of category killers explains in large part the stagnant sales and talk of store closures throughout the department store segment.
Harris Scarfe and Best and Less <a href="https://www.insideretail.com.au/news/greenlit-brands-holds-off-disaster-201810">are reportedly</a> struggling. The Reject Shop’s net profit for the first half fell from an expected A$17 million to less than <a href="https://www.afr.com/business/retail/reject-shop-shares-plunge-40pc-after-profit-downgrade-20181017-h16qqu" target="_blank">A$11 million</a>. <a href="https://www.afr.com/business/retail/david-jones-interim-profits-plunge-39pc-20190221-h1bisz" target="_blank">David Jones’</a> half-year profit fell 39% to A$36 million. <a href="https://www.powerretail.com.au/multichannel/myer-1h2019-results/" target="_blank">Myer</a> reported a 2.8% drop in total sales for the same time frame.
Wesfarmers expects earnings from its department store brands Kmart and Target to fall about 8% this financial year. Eight Target stores closed during the first half of the financial year, with another six closures expected by the <a href="https://www.wesfarmers.com.au/docs/default-source/asx-announcements/2019-half-year-report-(incorporating-appendix-4d).pdf?sfvrsn=0" target="_blank">end of June</a>.
<h2>Cutting losses</h2>
Kmart is considered Australia’s discount department store “darling”. A decade ago it was on life support. Under the direction of chief executive Guy Russo <a href="https://www.afr.com/business/retail/wesfarmers-sticking-with-its-strategy-despite-setbacks-for-target-and-coal-20160624-gpr87n" target="_blank">it doubled it profits by 2015</a>.
A key to the turnaround was recognition it needed to quickly reduce or exit categories it could not compete in, such as hardware, automotive, fishing, consumer electronics and sporting goods. It has <a href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/home/interiors/meet-the-woman-behind-discount-retailers-cheap-homewares/news-story/c3b87320cea433d89b2d894f34438c4a" target="_blank">turned to</a> homeware, soft furnishings, manchester and kitchenware.
There appears no such swiftness in Big W’s moves.
Big W’s chief executive from January to November 2016, Sally MacDonald, reportedly wanted to closes stores and make other major changes but <a href="https://www.afr.com/business/retail/woolworths-to-shut-30-big-w-stores-20190401-p519jr" target="_blank">was thwarted by the board of Woolworths Group</a>, owner of Big W.
Such differences in strategic vision explain why MacDonald left the role within the year.
This process of “right-sizing” therefore seems long overdue. To what extent it makes Woolworths a sustainable business, however, will depend on future response to changing circumstances.
What is certain is that discount department stores aren’t what they used to be; and if they want to be around in future, they probably can’t be what they are now.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/114630/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gary-mortimer-1322" target="_blank">Gary Mortimer</a>, Associate Professor in Marketing and Consumer Behaviour, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847" target="_blank">Queensland University of Technology</a>
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-trouble-with-big-w-dont-blame-online-for-killing-discount-department-stores-114630" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

The trouble with Big W: don't blame online for killing discount department stores

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Woolworths has increased its lead as Australia’s top grocery retailer increasing its share of Australia’s total grocery market to 34% in 2018, up 1.4ppts from a year ago according to Roy Morgan’s latest survey data.
Their data showed, while Woolworths increased its market share the newly independent Coles now has a share of 27.6% of the total grocery market down 1.6ppts on a year ago.
 German supermarket chain Aldi has grown its market share to 11.4%, up 0.5ppts from a year ago.
Other Supermarkets outside the ‘big four’ such as 2018 Foodland, Foodworks and others increased their share of the total grocery market to 9.1% (up 1.2ppts) while IGA’s grocery share was down 0.4ppts to 7.1%.
Total grocery market – % market share 2017 cf. 2018
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/4/8/MARKET%20SHARE%20.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge:
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/4/8/MARKET%20SHARE%20.png" alt="">
 
Source: Roy Morgan Single Source. 
Michele Levine, Roy Morgan CEO, commented that the impressive performance of Woolworths over the last year has Australia’s leading grocery retailer in a strong position to deal with the entry of German ‘hypermarket’ Kaufland into Australia’s $100 billion+ grocery market:
“Australia’s leading supermarket chain Woolworths has increased its lead in Australia’s increasingly competitive grocery market in 2018 now capturing over a third of Australia’s total grocery spend in 2018 – up 1.4ppts to 34% from a year ago."
“The successful year for Woolworths has been built upon strong performances across the four key categories of fresh food. Woolworths has grown its market share in dollar terms for fresh meat, fresh deli, fresh bread and also fresh fruit and vegetables and is the market leader in all four categories ahead of main rival Coles."
“The demerger of Coles Group from industrial conglomerate Wesfarmers in the December quarter of 2018 means Australia’s second largest supermarket chain now has the opportunity to refocus on its core business ahead of the imminent arrival of German retailer Kaufland."
“Kaufland has already bought six industrial sites in Melbourne at which it plans to open its successful ‘hypermarkets’ over the next two years before rolling out stores Australia-wide following in the footsteps of fellow German retailer Aldi. Aldi also had a good year in 2018 and grew its share of the total grocery market by 0.5ppts to a new high of 11.4%."
“In addition to Kaufland the Australian grocery market is also anticipating a rollout of the ‘Amazon Fresh’ brand in the near future after the American Internet giant launched a food and grocery segment (although not yet fresh food) in the December quarter 2018."
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Woolworths grew grocery market share to 34% 2018: Roy Morgan

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Ivanhoe’s Woolworths full-line supermarket and BWS has hit the market with expectations of more than $20 million.
The 3,552 square metre retail asset is located at 72-84 Upper Heidelberg Road.
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Savills Australia’s Benson Zhou, Clinton Baxter, Julian Heatherich and Jesse Radisich have been appointed to market the property.
Zhou said they expected interest from private local and offshore investors. 
“We have three local agents and four Asian Services agents working timelessly on this campaign, and have been extremely busy answering enquiries from overseas and organising inspections,” he said.
“We have received a decent level of interest from Asian investors indicating their willingness to offer more than $20 million. 
“Chinese investors have found a great level of security in the Woolworths brand so we’re also anticipating strong contest from this buyer group, particularly given the premium Ivanhoe location – one of the best suburbs they can expect to buy a full-line Woolworths in Melbourne.” 
Zhou said the long-term lease to Woolworths Limited would be a drawcard for prospective buyers. 
“The 15-year lease covenant with six five-year options to renew is a secure investment proposition, generating a net income of about $917,078 per annum,” he said.  
Baxter said a recent $4.9 million upgrade to the premises was another key selling point.
“The asset presents significant depreciation benefits of about $14.5million,” he said. 
The property includes 178 basement car parks on title. 
Zhou said the retail catchment area would grow in line with the suburb’s population. 
“The City of Banyule’s population is forecast to grow to 147,098 by 2036,” he said. 
“As a result, there is increased residential development in the area, and a gradual upward trend in the value of building approvals.” 
Expressions of interest close Wednesday, April 10 at 2pm.
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Woolworths supermarket in Ivanhoe listed with $20 million expectations 

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A Woolworths-anchored shopping complex in Munno Para, a northern suburb of Adelaide, has hit the market.
The convenience-based shopping centre at 297 Peachey Road occupies a two hectare site and generates around $1,613,400 per annum. 
The centre presents a gross lettable area of 6,390 sqm, comprising the full-line Woolworths supermarket and associated BWS liquor store, which are operating under a new 12-year lease. 
There is also a mix of 17 speciality tenants, including a Smokemart, newsagency, café, medical centre and Terry White Pharmacy. 
 Savills Australia’s Peter Isaksson, Rino Carpinelli and Steven Lerche have been appointed to conduct the expressions-of-interest campaign.
They anticipate strong interest from investors after limited opportunities came to market last year.
“There is no doubt there is pent-up demand from investors wanting to enter growth areas such as Playford,” Isaksson said. 
“Buyers are looking to capitalise on Adelaide’s northern growth corridor and the large number of dwellings to be constructed within the city’s fastest-growing precinct.” 
Woolworths Playford is part of the $1 billion urban development project, Playford Alive, which is being jointly managed by the City of Playford council and state government.  
The precinct comprises popular suburban-lifestyle facilities, such as healthcare, education, recreation and a new $250million town centre. 
Rino Carpinelli said shopping centres like Woolworths Playford were rarely traded in South Australia.
“This centre serves the everyday needs of the local community and is classed as a defensive asset, driven largely by non-discretional shopping,” he said. 
“The centre offers significant depreciation benefits backed by a secure income stream and long weighted average lease expiry of 9.12 years by area,” Mr Isaksson said.
Carpinelli expects investors to be interested in the new and highly regarded retail precinct. 
He went on to say that the shopping centre’s location within a new and highly regarded retail precinct would be a key selling point for astute investors.
“The centre is strategically positioned to benefit from uplift in local retail spend in the coming years, with the main trade area population estimated to increase from 35,340 people as at June 2018, to 47,890 people by 2031,” he said. 
“Similarly, the current retail trade area expenditure of $397 million is forecast to significantly grow to $720 million by 2031.”
 
 
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