The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

House And Land

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Five Squared Property Group has released the latest stage of its 475 lot master planned community in Doreen, Katandra Rise.
About 1,500 people are expected to live in Katandra Rise when it is completed. Ashley Lewis, the development and marketing manager at Five Squared Property Group, zoning changes as part of Plan Melbourne are expected to see an increase in development in the area.
Moving forward, it’s likely we’ll see more high density development in the area, so buyers are looking for the certainty that comes with a master planned community like Katandra Rise,” said Lewis.
Some of the City of Whittlesea, Doreen's local government area, has been converted to a Residential Growth Zone, allowing apartment and townhouse development, with building heights of over 13.5 metres.
According to Lewis, the group has seen a high volume of enquiries since community's latest sales stage, The Boulevard, launched earlier this month.
"Much of the interest has come from first and second homebuyers wanting an affordable white picket fence lifestyle and peace of mind knowing their home won’t be surrounded by apartments in ten years," he said.
He believes the level of interest indicates a strengthening market.
“Over the last couple of years, we’ve seen buyers sit tight because of economic uncertainty, which meant it could take up to a year to sell each release. We’re extremely encouraged by the initial response we’ve had at this early stage and expect to sell out easily by Easter next year," said Lewis.
Katandra Rise features a new community garden, with 12 individual plots, one communal plot and a garden shed, managed by the development group in conjunction with Doreen Primary School.
“Community gardens are popping up across the city and providing a connection to nature and community that residents really value as space becomes increasingly tight,” said Lewis.
“Buyers to Katandra Rise love the idea of having access to the garden - it’s already playing a large role in helping to foster a strong community spirit.”
Six of the development's 37 hectares will be dedicated to open space, with bike paths, terraced play and picnic areas, and a playground.
Katandra Rise's fourth land release, The Boulevard comprises 22 home sites at the bottom of Katandra Rise hill. Elevated home lots range from 375 square metres to 603 square metres, with frontages ranging from 12.5 metres to 16 metres. Land is priced from $174,500 to $234,500. Construction on the stage will begin next week, with completion expected for December this year.
The development is located 500 metres from the Doreen Town Centre.
Click to open in new window.
<a href="/images/2014/07/30/0305769r02_FIVE_Katandra_Rise_Master_Plan_940px_x_555px.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/30/0305769r02_FIVE_Katandra_Rise_Master_Plan_940px_x_555px.jpg" alt=""></a>
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New release from Doreen masterplan development

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ASX-listed property developer Peet Limited has been focusing attention on Melbourne’s north and has officially launched its fourth residential community in the area.
This week, with the City of Hume and Melbourne Water, Peet officially launched the Roxburgh Park Arena. The development will be supported by major road works, recreation facilities and open space.
Within the development, $14 million has been allocated to construction a section of Aitken Boulevard, including a direct connection between Somerton Road to James Mirams Drive in <a href="/news">Roxburgh Park</a>.
A total $6.5 million is set for parts one and two of the 10-hectare district sports precinct in the Peet Arena community, while the City of Hume is pouring in $2.5 million for the facility.
Part one works begin next month, and will be completed in mid-2015.
Peet Limited managing director and CEO, Brendan Gore, said the company has committed to Melbourne’s northern corridor. Over the past six years, they have brought almost 1,000 home sites to the area in its Aston Craigieburn and Greenvale Lakes developments.
“Peet has more than 3,000 lots in the pipeline on a total of 200 hectares, across its active communities of Aston in Craigieburn, Aspect in Greenvale and Arena in Roxburgh Park,” said Gore.
“Across our portfolio in the City of Hume, Peet will account for an investment of more than $110 million in community infrastructure including 23 hectares of parks and playgrounds; and two neighbourhood activity centres.”
In the Roxburgh Park Arena, Woolworths has already been named the anchor tenant and the supermarket’s planning is underway.
In total, they expect this new community to include 500 new properties. They will then have three sites in the area – Aston Craigieburn, focusing on first home buyers, Arena Roxburgh Park, focusing on families and upgraders, and Aspect Greenvale, focusing on maturing families, upgraders and empty nesters.
“Providing the infrastructure to support and create robust communities is an important part of Peet’s expansion plans in Melbourne’s north,” he said.
“We have been working closely with government, and particularly the City of Hume, Melbourne Water and Parks Victoria, to ensure we meet the community’s needs and complement the strategic vision for the region.”
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Peet Limited’s Roxburgh Park Arena in Melbourne’s north launched

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Forget just paying for an apartment or a house and land package alone anymore, the past few years have seen apartments promise all sorts of whistles and bells to net in a buyer.
Here are the top five that got us talking.
<ol>
<li>
Vehicles From <a href="/expert-insights/buying/developer-offers-free-scooter-but-no-car-park-to-encourage-off-the-plan-apartment-sale">scooters in an apartment development with no car parks</a>, to <a href="/news/vic/vespa-offer-to-entice-buyers-to-south-yarra-one-bedroom-apartments">Vespa’s in South Yarra one-bedders</a>, this has been an increasingly popular option. In the last couple of years, cars have also been seen as offered with an apartment – with a free Toyota worth up to $40,000 offered by Peet for house and land buyers. Even <a href="/expert-insights/buying/melbourne-apartment-buyer-enticements-include-rental-guarantees-marina-berths-and-even-a-boat-ride-as-market-ripe-with-new-offerings">free marina berths on a leasehold arrangement</a> and a boat ride were offered for a period of time. 
</li>
<li>
Food supply Established properties have seen incentives like a year’s supply of ice-cream, and off the plan and new developers have gotten in on the action. Bringing <a href="/expert-insights/investing/food-trucks-latest-marketing-technique-for-developers">food trucks, and even cooking classes</a>, to launch events and buyers – the stomach is certainly the way to some peoples’ pockets. 
</li>
<li>
Qantas Points In September 2013, it was <a href="/news/frequent-flyer-points-might-be-a-gimmick-but-will-off-the-plan-buyers-be-attracted-by-the-incentives">frequent flyer points that took out Property Observer headlines</a> as the latest marketing techniques. A number of developers offered this incentive, from $1 for 1 point, to a certain number of points for each buyer. 
</li>
<li>
Financial incentives In 2012 all the rage was about <a href="/expert-insights/building/from-10-000-to-50-000-residential-developers-tempt-buyers-with-incentives">financial incentives to buy</a> – developers covering half of your deposit, or taking $10,000 off for those who purchased early. Time-limited discounts are also regularly seen. 
</li>
<li>
Furniture packages An increasingly common incentive is the furniture package – allowing buyers to move in to their carefully selected and furnished property. A number of developers include this for their developments, such as at Studio Nine. Usually, these <a href="/news/qld/close-to-11-million-of-new-apartment-sales-recorded-at-mon-komo-development-redcliffe">furniture packages</a> will have an interior stylist behind them.
</li>
</ol>
What unusual incentives have you seen offered to prospective new property buyers?
If you're marketing off the plan, you should consider signing up to the <a href="/news">Property Observer/Investorist free webinar off the plan marketing masterclass</a>.
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Five unusual new build marketing incentives

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A sell out of their latest release of 35 homes in CityVillage, in Queensland’s Robina, has seen Robina Group push forward another wave of properties.
The $200 million project has already seen almost $62 million in sales across their two Robina projects – <a href="https://www.cityvillage.com.au/" target="_blank">CityVillage</a> and Riverlily. After the 35 homes in CityVillage sold out in March, in two days for $16 million, they are pushing another 33 to market.
The Riverlily terrace homes, which were launched in April, also saw strong sales. Currently just a few terrace properties are left from $449,000. Meanwhile, this latest CityVillage stage – number four- includes 33 three-bedroom properties. This includes 20 that are waterside homes from $529,000.
The first tri-level homes in the development, with ground level courtyard and a balcony, are also being sold in this release.
<a href="/news">Robina’s median house price is $525,000</a>, while the median unit price sits at $410,000, according to RP Data.
Robina Group residential sales manager Azura Griffen said that many buyers missed out in the early stage.
"The level of interest in property in Robina is only continuing to rise and we've been fast tracking the design and construction of our developments just to keep pace,” said Griffen.
"Robina is a highly sought after residential address because of the unparalleled mix of amenities on offer literally at the doorstep, including Robina Town Centre, schools, Hospital, Bond University and Cbus Super Stadium, and its relative ease of access."
In total, CityVillage will have 130 terrace homes over four hectares.
If you're marketing off the plan, you should consider signing up to the <a href="/news">Property Observer/Investorist free webinar off the plan marketing masterclass</a>.
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CityVillage, Gold Coast extends release after sell out

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The western Melbourne suburb of <a href="/news">Tarneit</a> is seeing house and land development The Heartlands selling out in its various stages, with the latest 29 blocks now hitting the market.
This is Stage 21, and includes eastern-facing blocks close to the recreation centre and wetlands precinct. Blocks range from 400 square metres upwards, with prices from $160,000. The blocks are located down Barrangi Drive.
Asset1 is behind <a href="https://theheartlands.com.au/" target="_blank">The Heartlands</a>, and have previously announced that it will include future school sites and sporting area, as well as a childcare centre set to open by the end of 2015.
Asset1 sales director Mark Adams said that the focus is on a family-friendly community with accessible amenities.
“Tarneit is developing rapidly, so we’re thrilled to see our neighbourhoods flourish as new families move in to their dream homes,” said Adams.
“With homes located just moments from established parklands, Club Heartlands, proposed future school sites and the recently announced childcare centre, purchasers and their families are even closer to achieving a healthier work/life balance than ever before.”
The site is 30 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, near to Tarneit Railway Station.
The blocks in this release span up to 484 square metres, and is the fifth stage to be released.
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The Heartlands stages selling out in Melbourne’s Tarneit

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A new display centre will launch for ShellCove on the Illawarra’s South Coast this weekend from Allworth Homes.
There will be three new home designs, with a coastal living aspect, showcased at the opening from 12 July, with each of an open plan aspect and with an outside alfresco.
Other South Coast Allworth Homes centres are at South Nowra’s Twin Waters and Horsley’s Brooks Reach.
Managing director of Allworth Homes, Stephen Thompson, said that there should be strong sales on the South Coast.
“We are really upping the game with these designs. They well and truly speak to a modern audience – people that really want that ‘resort’ style living plan. There are a number of alternate floor plans available for each home and the façade designs are inter-changeable,” said Thomspon.
“As the display centre at ShellCove opens, another chapter closes. We have recently closed our Haywards Bay centre after being there for eight years. Our sales consultant from Haywards Bay, Terry Ryan, is moving over to ShellCove. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience of over 30 years.”
The three houses are Pembrey, Sebring and the Carlisle.
The Pembrey is a four-bedroom design with features including a hidden walk-in pantry and master with walk-in robe. It’s aimed at first home buyers, investors and downsizers. It is single storey and priced from $154,800.
The Sebring is a four-bedroom property for those wanting a larger living space option, and it features a media room and an alfresco dining area. It is single storey and priced from $150,400.
The Carlisle includes a butler’s pantry, a kids’ activity room and a home theatre and suits families. Further details are still to be announced.
The display will be at <a href="https://allworthhomes.com.au/shell-cove" target="_blank">21 Apollo Drive, </a><a href="https://allworthhomes.com.au/shell-cove" target="_blank">Shell Cove and will be open from 10am to 5pm</a>. 
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Illawarra’s ShellCove display home to launch this weekend

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A boutique land estate, with just 25 lots, has been launched on the Gold Coast’s Tallebudgera by Gordon Corp.
The estate is called <a href="https://www.hiddenvalley.land" target="_blank">Hidden Valley</a>, located on Connection Road, and is the debut for developers Gordon Corp, linked to Tim Gordon, and will also be the first land subdivision the semi-rural area has seen for some time.
It will provide lots from 600 square metres to 821 square metres, priced from $295,000.
<img src="/images/2014/07/07/hidden-valley-july-7.jpg" alt="">
Marketing manager for Gordon Corp, Bianca Gordon, said the estate would be of interest to young families and existing residents who are downsizing from their acreage.
“There’s currently nothing available here for people who want to move off their acreage property to something more manageable in the same location,” said Gordon.
“As a result there’s pent-up demand for smaller blocks which has prompted us to bring Hidden Valley to the market.”
Professionals Black and Young Burleigh Heads agents Adam Young and Chris Wolters are the sales and marketing agents for the estate, and are expecting quick sales.
“There’s huge unmet demand from people who are keen to live in this area without the expense and maintenance of acreage property,” said Young.
“At present there is no vacant land on the market less than 1.5 acres in Tallebudgera and the majority of vacant blocks are well over two acres.”
Civil works will begin within weeks.
Tallebudgera is <a href="/news/qld/bellagio-la-villa-listed-as-tallebudgera-owners-cash-in-their-glorious-gold-coast-hinterland-chips">home to the incredible Bellagio La Villa</a>.
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Boutique Gold Coast 25-lot land estate launched as developer’s debut

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A new masterplanned estate from AVJennings has released its first stage, with homestead allotments and heritage protected countryside views.
The community, called <a href="https://www.avjennings.com.au" target="_blank">Arcadian Hills</a>, is in Cobbitty, New South Wales, some 60 kilometres south west of Sydney. The area is largely farmland, and it is a village near the more widely-known Camden.
<a href="/news">Cobbitty</a> is home to many amazing homes, including <a href="/news/amanpuri-one-of-the-great-estates-of-west-sydney-sells-for-5-6-million">Amanpuri that sold for $5.6 million earlier this year</a>.
This development will bring 457 country-style residences to the township, and also offer land-only sales in later stage releases.
AVJennings NSW’s executive general manager, Alan Soutar, said that the development is unique to the Camden LGA, and will be part of the growth already seen in the council area.
“The village of Cobbity has all the benefits of a wonderful rural community, yet the proximity to the future Oran Park Town and Camden making it a convenient place to live. Arcadian Hills will offer a tranquil family haven with a distinctive country feel,” said Soutar.
“The Arcadian Hills site was once home to a small village clustered around a historic homestead, with everyone from a blacksmith to a brickmaker and their families sharing a thriving community. Today, Arcadian Hills adjoins a 500 acre heritage area, providing never-to-be-built out neighbouring green pastures and bushland,” he said.
A fitness trail and cycleway will be included, as well as ‘Village Green’ areas and playground facilities.
Member for Camden, Chris Pattrerson, said that the development will appeal to those looking for a rural lifestyle but maintaining the conveniences of the suburbs.
 “We are pleased that AVJennings is investing further in the Camden region following the success of the company’s other local development, at Elderslie.”
The first stage includes six homes, with prices from $595,000, including both single and double storey properties.
The historic Lily Pond will be the centre of the development, with Stage One’s arterial road being Olive Hill Drive.
In February 2013, things were reportedly looking tough for AVJennings as they awaited interest to return to the house and land sector. As a result, they'd <a href="/expert-insights/buying/avjennings-awaits-the-return-of-confidence-to-house-and-land-buyers">cut the value of this development due to bureaucratic red tape</a>.
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Masterplanned estate with homestead allotments for Cobbitty, New South Wales

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Land developers in Sydney have been producing large numbers of new lots and charging more for land, but data from a specialist residential property researcher shows sales are now declining and could fall rapidly if pricing is not reduced.
Sales activity volumes in Sydney fell by 7% in the March quarter compared with the December quarter, Research4’s National Land Survey Program found. It was the first fall in activity levels since December 2012.
“We think the Sydney [land] market is going to moderate ... Where it goes from here will depend on how [developers] manage pricing,” Research4 director of strategic research Colin Keane told Property Observer.
“It’s either going to stabilise and fall away quietly, or drop quickly if they keep pushing prices up.”
On average across the Sydney market median lot pricing rose by 1.8% in the March quarter, Research4’s data shows.
In the city’s west and south west, median prices rose by 17% during the quarter.
Keane said the sizable jump in prices in those regions was mainly due to price rises at a development by Landcom and Greenfields Development Company at Oran Park, and at Stockland’s Willowdale.
Research4’s figures show median lot prices in Sydney’s North West rose by 7% in the March quarter, while median lot prices in the Lower Hunter fell by around 4%.
The median price for land across the Sydney region was $283,000 for a 516 square metre block, Keane said.
“We think the pricing is problematic in the Sydney market now,” he said. “I don’t think developers can push prices any further. The might have to take a hit and reduce their prices over the coming months.”
Land prices last fell in Sydney in September 2013, according to Research4’s data.
While prices have been rising, lot sizes have been falling so cost per square metre is at a record high, Keane said. In 2010, the median lot size was 600 square metres. In 2012 it was 550 square metres and now is it around 510 square metres.
Keane said land developers may not be aware that a problem was emerging, as the market was still good and customer cancellation rates were still very low.
“The market is still really good but I think now is a good time to start thinking about the next 12 months and the next 12 months is going to be tighter in terms of demand and [customers] are going to be looking at saving in pricing,” he said.
The Sydney land market has historically suffered from significant supply shortages, but Keane said since June 2013 the land market had been fully meeting underlying demand and exceeding demand in some locations.
“It used to be an issue five years ago but with the South West market coming online we have seen lots of land coming on the market,” he said.
Demand would also fall as net overseas migration into NSW and visa applications had moderated, while the number of loans issued to second home buyers was falling, Keane said.
Australian Bureau of Statistics housing finance figures for the month of March will be released on Tuesday May 13, but the February result showed the number of finance commitments for the purchase of new dwellings around Australia fell by 5% in seasonally adjusted terms compared with January.
On approvals for new dwellings, Housing Industry Association chief economist, Harley Dale said: “Building approvals for the month of March 2014 were consistent with healthy growth in new home building activity this year, although the approvals cycle itself may well have peaked.”
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Sydney land sales could rapidly decline if prices not reduced warns researcher

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As I was dicing onion for tonight’s dinner, I saw some news on TV that made my ears prick.
A house in Swansea, a suburb of Newcastle <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-28/sink-hole-opens-up-under-nsw-home/5482498" target="_blank">was seemingly sinking into a hole</a>. The cause? An old mine shaft laying approximately 25 metres below.
This is mine subsidence – very unusual, yet something we do prepare for in our development process.
The area underneath the neighbourhood was once part of the Swansea Pit, a coal mine abandoned in 1953.  It was reported that Mine Subsidence Board officers believe the sinkhole appeared above an old vertical furnace shaft. Today they were pouring concrete into the hole to stabilise the area around the house and hopefully they can secure the area and save the house.
There is one comfort for the house owners; the cost for this work required is covered by the Board.
The <a href="https://www.minesub.nsw.gov.au" target="_blank">Mine Subsidence Board</a> is a NSW government department funded by the current mining companies today. The mine companies pay a levy that goes into a trust account and is to be used for any repair works that are a result of mines located beneath the property. It operates for the community in coal mining areas of New South Wales and is responsible for administering the Mine Subsidence Compensation Act.  The Act provides for compensation or repair services where improvements are damaged by mine subsidence resulting from the extraction of coal. 
In an area where you are building new dwellings and that has been identified as undermined, there is a process to follow.
The Mine Subsidence Board is very helpful and provides strict building guidelines on what can be built and the construction methods.  They need to approve and stamp the engineer’s plans for the footings that will support the dwelling. They inspect during the building process to ensure the builder is meeting the engineering requirements and they keep a copy of the approved plans on file. 
If any problems arise in the future that relate to the undermining of the site, the Board make all repairs at their cost, kind of like an insurance company for your development but you don’t pay any premiums.
There is no time limit on the coverage so they basically guarantee the project as long as they have approved the engineering.
As part of our research process, one of our first checks on a potential development site is with the Mine Subsidence Board. They can tell you over the phone if the land our client is purchasing is within a proclaimed Mine Subsidence District.  The purpose of a District is to prevent damage through surface development controls that take account of the risk of damage by subsidence from old, current and future mining.
With detailed geo technical reports and the assistance of the Mine Subsidence Board, a development in an undermined area can be very successful. We have used ‘<a href="https://www.minesub.nsw.gov.au/SiteFiles/minesubnswgovau/MSB4ppA4Potholes07.pdf" target="_blank">pot hole</a>’ construction methods on a duplex development and the construction costs were not very much more than normal construction. But we did secure the land at a discounted price which meant more equity was created during the development for our client.
If you own a property in Newcastle, chances are its undermined, but the type of sinkhole activity reported this week is very uncommon, so don’t lose any sleep over it.
If you are building in a new estate, always have a geotech report completed and use the resources on hand at the Mine Subsidence Board to ensure your building process is correct for the location.
<a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/">www.propertybloom.com.au</a>
Feature photo: Guatemalan sinkhole, 2010. Courtesy of Flickr/<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_parent">Creative Commons</a>.
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