A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Zoning

<html><body>
North Ryde's houses recorded the strongest median price growth of those in any Sydney suburb in the latter part of 2014, according to Domain Group senior economist Andrew Wilson.
Between the six months to December 2013 and the same period in 2014, North Ryde's median house price jumped 34.9% to $1.25 million.
Wilson attributes much of the growth in large part to rezoning measures, which now allow high rise development along railway lines in North Ryde and Epping, <a href="/news/nsw/the-11-sydney-areas-every-property-investor-should-know-urban-activation-precincts">among other areas in Sydney</a>.
"That's caused quite a bonanza of activity for the homeowners who have been in the rezoned areas", Wilson tells Property Observer.
In 2013, the state government announced North Ryde as one of eight areas in its urban activation precincts program. A 12.5 hectare site, set around 15 kilometres north-west of the city and bounded by the M2, Epping and Delhi roads, was identified as under-utilised.
The strong demand in areas of North Ryde has largely come from developers, says Wilson.
"We've seen a real land-rush from developers trying to secure properties in those areas."
While he notes that the area has "been a strong market for the Chinese community as well", Wilson says "developers are really climbing over themselves to secure property".
Home owners have notably taken advantage of developer interest in the area, with one group of eight residents selling their properties in one line for <a href="https://www.afr.com/p/business/property/residents_in_bonanza_brKDKdsHAAkThFj8UzuleN" target="_blank">$30 million to developers last year</a>.
In May, a developer, Great Wall Investments Pty Ltd, purchased two neighbouring properties at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-north+ryde-116913931" target="_blank">43 and 45 Jopling Street, North Ryde</a> (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2015/02/09/north%20ryde%20feb%209%20one.jpg" alt="">
The vendors were two residents who had been living side by side for around 30 years, according to agent Ben Boutros. He estimates that each property might have sold for $1 million separately. Together, the two homes sold for $2,887,000, with each seller taking home a 50% share.
Great Wall Investments now plans to build seven villas on the site, with applications lodged for two three bedroom two storey units, three single storey three bedroom units and two two bedroom units.
The results are indicative of what Wilson calls "insatiable demand" in the North Ryde and Epping area since they've been rezoned.
The plans to redevelop the station precinct in North Ryde may be a driver of price growth throughout the suburb, with enhanced public transport, jobs and improved public spaces promised by the New South Wales government.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-north+ryde-118328587" target="_blank">4 Beatrice Street in North Ryde</a> (pictured below) sold in North Ryde for $1.27 million in November. In April 2010, it sold for $850,000, a difference of $420,000 (49.4% growth) in three and a half years.
<img src="/images/2015/02/09/north%20ryde%20feb%209%20two.jpg" alt="">
After 15 years of ownership, the vendors of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-north+ryde-118242887" target="_blank">50 David Avenue</a> (pictured below)  sold the property for $1.45 million late last year. They paid just $172,000 in January 2000, with 743% growth over the 15 years. <img src="/images/2015/02/09/north%20ryde%20feb%209%20three.jpg" alt="">
The investment property is currently rented advertised to rent at $525 per week, reflecting a rental yield of 1.8%.
Wilson notes North Ryde's market performance is in part due to "the overall Sydney zing", with low interest rates, buyer confidence and a strong local economy propelling prices. However, according to Wilson, prices have been "exacerbated by a lot of developer activity". 
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Rezonings help North Ryde become Sydney's hottest suburb

<html><body>
Paul Nugent from Wakelin Property Advisory recently sought out SongBowden Planning’s Daniel Bowden to ask how Victoria's new planning zones affect property owners.
Bowden explained that the planning process is really about outcomes, and the primary change for residential property owners and investors has been the introduction of three zones.
These are the three zones:
<ol>
<li>
Neighbourhood Residential Zone 
</li>
<li>
General Residential Zone 
</li>
<li>Residential Growth Zone</li>
</ol>
He explains that it’s best to consider them like traffic lights in terms of how development will be accepted in those areas – that is, the Neighbourhood Residential Zone is a red light, the General Residential Zone is an orange light and the Residential Growth Zone is a green light.
For those in a Neighbourhood Residential Zone, the aim is to limit change and respect character.
For the General Residential Zone it’s to develop where appropriate and have some opportunity for development that’s not too intense.
In the Residential Growth Zones it’s about looking beyond character and maximising development opportunities.
“Developers are looking for sites in these growth zones and steering away from areas where it’s suggested to not be appropriate anymore,” said Bowden.
He explained that the controls do appear to protect residents from big development from happening next door to them in the “red” areas. However, if you own property in an area promoted for development, then your expectations are going to possibly need to change as a large development may occur next to you.
You can see their full thoughts in the video below.
{qtube vid:=R3qWakcq18o}
{mijopolls 63}
</body></html>

jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Victoria’s three planning zones and how they affect you

<html><body>
A substantial rezoning and fast tracking of applications has been occurring in Geelong, according to Victorian Planning Minister Matthew Guy.
Announcing the fast tracking of “job-creating major projects” in Geelong, Guy noted that there would be a number of substantial changes in the area.
These included approving the Armstrong Creek Town Centre structure plan, rezoning the Lovely Banks future growth area to an Urban Growth Zone and the final implementation of reformed residential zones across Geelong.
The Fyansford residential and commercial development has been streamlined, approval given to the Winchelsea-Colac Princes Highway duplication, a sustainable farms agribusiness project at Lara and a retail and logistics precinct at Avalon Airport.
The industrial precincts, including the Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct, will also see fast tracked planning approvals.
“We will put in place fast-tracked approvals for manufacturing, warehousing and logistics projects by July 2015. With this new reform, Geelong’s industrial precincts will be the most attractive in the state for job-generating investment,” Guy said.
“This reform will boost the Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct as an ideal location for investment.”
The residential zone implementation are looking to both protect neighbourhood character and stimulate the construction industry with new infill projects “where appropriate”.
</body></html>

Geelong rezoning to reform residential zones: Matthew Guy

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
The declining rate of infill housing in Perth means that a state government backflip on residential design codes would be detrimental to the city’s future development, leading to a restriction in housing choice and further urban sprawl.
Perth’s infill rate, that is residential developments within established suburbs compared to greenfield areas, dropped to 28% in 2012 - down from 32% in the previous year.
The figures, which were recently published by the Western Australian Planning Commission’s (WAPC) Urban Growth Monitor report, fall extraordinarily short of the long-term infill target of 47%.
This target was set as part of the state government’s strategic development plan, Directions 2031 and Beyond, and created to slow Perth’s urban sprawl as the city’s population is expected to balloon substantially in the years ahead.
The fact that the city’s infill rate is far below the long-term target, and more critically, that the rate is actually declining, demonstrates that calls from the WAPC to cut the number of dwellings allowed on certain properties would further undermine Perth’s development strategy.
The WAPC is seeking ministerial approval to effectively reverse a 2010 amendment to residential design codes that significantly increased the number of dwellings allowed on properties zoned R-30 and R-35.
The amendment cleared the way for up to 10 units to be built on 1,000 square metre blocks that are zoned R-30, up from just three units previously.
The move to scrap the amendment is in response to concerns about the impact on predominately single dwelling or grouped dwelling neighbourhoods.
<blockquote>
Fast Facts:
32% – The historical net infill housing rate in Perth 47% – The long-term housing infill target rate 59% – Portion of infill developments with one dwelling (2011-2012)
</blockquote>
While I agree that medium or high density housing should not be on every street on every suburb, if the WAPC’s calls are granted, then it simply gives the green light for councils to further resist development in established areas, producing and exacerbating problems for the wider community.
If the state government was to backflip on these reforms it would only put further downward pressure on Perth’s development infill rate and make it very difficult to reach the infill target of 47%.
Subsequently, housing choice in established suburbs would be significantly diminished, more people would be forced to live on the urban fringe and housing values would be impacted.
While it is understandable that some might hold concerns about increased traffic in medium and high-density areas, studies have found that building such developments near public transport generally have minimal impact.
Furthermore, if managed and designed properly, a 10 unit development can be smaller in size than three townhouses on one lot.
If Perth is going to accommodate a rapidly growing population, which increasingly wants to live near work and amenities, we simply can’t afford for the urban sprawl to continue indefinitely.
<img src="/images/2014/10/27/collins-oct-17-one.jpg" alt="">
Damian Collins is the founder and managing director of <a href="https://www.momentumwealth.com.au/" target="_blank">Momentum Wealth</a>, a Perth-based property consultancy that specialises in building the long-term wealth of its clients by assisting in the strategic selection, financing, acquisition, development and management of their investment properties.
</body></html>

DamianCollins-BiwU8NaWEC

Perth risks indefinite urban sprawl with new residential zoning proposals

<html><body>
Last night, the City of Greater Geelong voted to remove a covenant on a contentious block of land.
The Geelong West Bowling Club had been looking to remove a covenant over an area of land that previously was to be used solely for the purpose of bowls.
In 1986, 1,728 square metres of land at 12 Bowlers Avenue, Geelong West had been sold to the Geelong West Bowls Club for $48,000 and had applied the covenant at that time restricting its use as a bowling green. The amount they paid was agreed upon by Council to be at or close to market value and had previously been used as a table tennis site.
The initial valuation and associated documents were unable to be found, so the council struggled to ascertain whether they had purchased it for a discount. However, they did note that due to a later valuation they believed they paid close to full market value.
The Club looks to move their site and want to maximise the revenue from the sale of the land for this purpose. The value would be greatly enhanced without the covenant, which restricted it to a bowling green and occasional car parking.
The council approved the removal of the covenant (M262445Q).
Attending the council meeting, the Geelong Advertiser tweeted the following:
<img src="/images/2014/08/13/geelong%20aug%2013%20one.png" alt="">
Council records note that the Club and the Drumcondra Bowling Club have entered into an agreement with Links Investco No 1 Pty Ltd to acquire land and build new clubrooms and greens at the former Geelong Golf Club site. The sale of the existing land is to support the move and club’s consolidation at the new location on Ballarat Road.
“In deciding to agree to the removal of the covenant, the Council is entitled to consider whether at the time of sale of the land to the Club, the covenant had a restrictive effect on the price at which the land transferred,” council meeting minutes note.
The land is currently zoned Residential 1, and is proposed to be included in a Residential Growth Zone 2 under a Greater Geelong Planning Scheme amendment.
“Once the covenant is removed the owner of the land is free to use and develop the land subject to the provisions of the Planning Scheme and subsequent planning permit,” the minutes confirm.
<img src="/images/2014/08/13/geelong%20aug%2013%20two.png" alt="">
Source: City of Greater Geelong
The entire site is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-vic-geelong+west-200945771" target="_blank">currently being marketed through Gartland Real Estate, who are calling it a unique development/subdivisional opportunity</a>.
“The former Geelong West Bowls Club is located only 85 metres to Pakington Street and adjoining the Geelong west public park this is a one of a kind development opportunity,” the listing reads.
“Set within moments to the vibrant Cafe and restaurant precinct, offering direct access to major arterials and public transport, this location offers a multitude of opportunities to the buyer. Surrounded by residential homes in one of Geelong strongest neighbourhoods this is the perfect mix of location and opportunity.”
It is open for expressions of interest.
The Geelong Advertiser had previously indicated that locals fear the site would become a high-density housing block if this took place and noted that Gartland had estimated a sale price of up to $10 million for the combined Geelong West and Drummondra clubs’ locations.
</body></html>

Geelong council removes covenant on bowls club land, paving way for possible development

<html><body>
Planning policy changes have allowed 2,500 Western Sydney home sites to be instantly brought online, according to Minister for Planning Pru Goward.
Yesterday, Property Observer wrote that <a href="/expert-insights/building/numerous-sydney-areas-rezoned-to-allow-for-higher-density-developments">multi-storey residential towers are expected to be built in many parts of Sydney as numerous areas undergo a rezoning</a>. Community pushback to development applications are likely.
The changes to the Growth Centres State Environmental Planning Policy are expected to bring greater diversity, affordability and meet the needs of the growing population in the area, said Goward.
“The changes mean a Western Sydney home buyer will have more choice of home type, and may also save up to 10% on the cost of their new home,” she said.
“The NSW government has accelerated the release of land to keep up with demand, and now we are providing more choices and allowing for more affordable options for Western Sydney families.”
The amendment allows smaller lot sizes, and medium density builds, that Goward believes will keep house and land packages under $400,000.
Growth Centres will now face the same planning controls, as well as a faster subdivision and home building approval process.
The changes will permit townhouse and villa-style housing, detached homes on a number of lot sizes, detached dwellings on small lots in medium density zones and studio dwellings to be strata subdivided from the main house so they can be sold as a separate dwelling.
Standardised minimum lot sizes, new approval pathways, standards for subdivision and house design and more opportunities to use the 10 day approval process for new homes on smaller lots have also been introduced.
“New suburbs in Western Sydney are expected to be home to half a million people over the next 25 years so it’s crucial for us to get the planning right now,” Goward said.
“This good future planning is supported by the NSW government’s record investment in transport infrastructure servicing these areas through the North West and South West Rail Links and work to complete Sydney’s motorway network.”  
</body></html>

Planning changes instantly unlocks 2,500 Western Sydney homes

<html><body>
Multi-storey residential towers will be built in many parts of Sydney as numerous areas are being rezoned to allow for higher density development.
But development proposals are likely to face community opposition as residents resist changes they expect to increase traffic congestion and restrict access to amenities such as schools.
Three new areas along the future North West Rail Link in Sydney’s Hills district were announced by NSW Minister for Planning Pru Goward in August as Urban Activation Precincts.
These precincts will be rezoned to help NSW state government deliver on its policy to “substantially increase the supply of housing and employment, and improve housing choice and affordability”.
One of NSW government’s aims is to boost the supply of housing in areas with good access to infrastructure, particularly transport, to accommodate Sydney’s expanding population.
Forecasts suggest the city’s population will swell by more than 1.6 million people by 2031, requiring around 664,000 more homes, according to NSW government. As part of that anticipated expansion, the population in Sydney’s Hills district is predicted to swell by 100,000 people.
The Urban Activation Precincts around train stations being built along the $8.3 billion rail link at Bella Vista, Kellyville and Showground are expected to provide up to 12,000 homes, including townhouses, detached homes and apartments.
The Minister for Planning has allocated $15 million to the three areas for local infrastructure. Local communities will decide how the funds are allocated.
The announcement received mixed responses from Hills residents who <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheHillsShireCouncil" target="_blank">took to Facebook</a> to air their views. Some support the changes while others complained of over-development and worsening traffic problems.
Hills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne said Council had debated where the forecast population growth could be accommodated.
“We need increased densities around town centres and transport hubs so that the rest of Shire can be preserved as single-lot housing,” he said in a statement.
More broadly along the North West Rail Link corridor, <a href="https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/en-au/planningyourregion/northwestraillinkcorridorstrategy.aspx" target="_blank">28,800 new homes are expected to go up by 2036</a>.
The three locations in the Hills add to eight areas already identified as Urban Activation Precincts elsewhere in Sydney at North Ryde Station; Epping Town Centre; Herring Road, Macquarie Park; Randwick; Anzac Parade South; Carter Street, Lidcombe; Wentworth Point; and Mascot Station. Higher density development will be encouraged in each of these locations.
The Urban Taskforce is calling for even higher density than what has been suggested in the Hills’ Urban Activation Precincts.
“The proposed 12,000 new homes around three stations is a good start but more housing needs to be planned for,” Urban Taskforce chief executive Chris Johnson says.
The three new areas will need to incorporate residential towers in the mixed-use and high-density residential areas, he says.
“Taller buildings can help with affordability particularly if apartment sizes are kept to state government standards,” Johnson says. “The Urban Taskforce is concerned that the Draft Development Control Plan by the Hills Shire Council proposes apartment sizes well in excess of the state’s sizes and that this will make each apartment more expensive.”
Strong growth in capital values in the Sydney metropolitan area have contributed to a high volume of apartments being planned for development or under construction, according to Knight Frank Residential Research’s Sydney Apartment Market Update, released last week.
The market update reveals Sydney property values have been increasing by 12.15% annually to a median of $549,000, says Knight Frank Residential Research associate director Michelle Ciesielski. Rents have remained stable at $520 per week, with rental yields estimated at 4.95%.
Ciesielski says there are 26,680 apartments in metropolitan Sydney due for completion over the next three years. Almost 10,000 of these will be in the city’s North West including Parramatta, Macquarie Park, Sydney Olympic Park, Wentworth Park and Epping.
But extra development often meets with opposition, particularly in areas that have traditionally had few or no high-rise apartment buildings.
In Lewisham in Sydney’s inner west, for example, developers have faced battles since 2005 with local residents who are against proposals to build multi-storey residential towers at a site on Old Canterbury road near the Lewisham railway station and light rail corridor.
Several development applications have been knocked back and local residents formed action groups to block the development.
The site was sold to Meriton in 2012 for around $50 million and approvals have been now given for work to begin on the site. Meriton’s latest proposals include seven multi-storey buildings between four and 10 storeys tall containing 314 dwellings over two levels of basement car parking plus 128 square metres of retail space. These plans are going through Marrickville Council’s development application processes.
</body></html>

zfielding-GvX3Uq9KTa

Numerous Sydney areas rezoned to allow for higher density developments

<html><body>
City of Sydney Council has put forward plans to rezone industrial areas in the city’s south to allow a wider range of commercial uses.
Although the areas are close to Sydney’s CBD and near suburbs that are in demand for residential development, private housing will generally not be allowed on the land.
Large areas zoned for general and light industrial purposes around <a href="/news">Alexandria</a> and <a href="/news">Rosebery </a>are earmarked to be rezoned as Business Park (see figures 3 and 4).
The only places in which residential development will be allowed are a section of Botany Road that currently permits shop-top housing and senior housing, and two areas on the edge of the Business Park that are being considered as sites where affordable housing could be developed to accommodate lower paid workers.
Attitudes towards land zoning have changed, Council notes in the introduction to its planning proposal. In the past, land use planning sought to divide uses into zones to minimise conflict between uses. Now, there is recognition that benefits could flow from locating a range of activities together, as long as they don’t have an "unreasonable impact" on one another – including raising values to such an extent that industry is priced out of the market by residential development.
The Council expects restricting the land in the areas proposed for rezoning to mainly commercial uses will keep land values down.
The conversion of other commercial and industrial sites in Sydney’s south to residential dwellings has started to have a major impact on the industrial market, and consequently jobs in the area.
Knight Frank’s research shows 71 businesses in the South Sydney commercial sector have been displaced in the past 12 months due to land rezoning with these businesses forced to consider relocating.
Knight Frank’s Industrial South Sydney Manager, Brooke Railton says <a href="/news">Marrickville</a>, in Sydney’s inner west is a popular alternative, given its close proximity to the Port Botany, Sydney Airport, main arterial roads and the CBD.
Fireplace manufacturer Jetmaster recently bought a vacant freestanding warehouse in Marrickville for $3.3 million, after selling two of its properties in redeveloped areas to enable the business to operate out of one location. Knight Frank received close to 80 enquiries on the industrial property. 
Industrial land values in Sydney's south are on average $850 per square metre, Colliers International’s first half Industrial Research &amp; Forecast Report found. That compares with values of $250 per square metre in Sydney's south west and $330 per square metre in the western suburbs.
Residential property prices in suburbs near to the South Sydney employment lands are considerably higher.
In <a href="/news">Erskineville</a>, which borders Alexandria to the west, residential land values were around $520,000 for a 4x32 metre block in 2013, according to the NSW Valuer general. That equates to $4,062.50 a square metre.
In <a href="/news">Mascot</a>, adjacent to the southern end of the employment lands, residential land values rose by 10% between 2012 and 2013 to $665,000 for a 12 x 40 metre block, according to the NSW Valuer general. That equates to $1,385.40 per square metre.
CBRE recently negotiated the sale of a 947 square metre showroom/warehouse facility at 133-141 Botany Road in Waterloo with residential development potential to Advan Properties. The residential property developer intends to lodge a development application for the site’s redevelopment.
The sale price of $4.5 million represented a land rate of $4,751 per square metre, according to CBRE.
Another freestanding commercial property with residential conversion potential, located just south of the City of Sydney employment lands sold to technology solutions firm Crosspoint Telecom for $2.31 million.
CBRE noted in its Q4, 2013 Australian Industrial MarketView report that investors were highly active in Sydney’s industrial market and were prepared to sit patiently on inner-ring assets that might be rezoned for residential use in future.
“A new breed of buyers, comprising mainly of unlisted wholesale groups and syndicators, are targeting these typically smaller assets – priced sub $30 million – due to their close proximity to the city and future redevelopment potential for higher and better use,” CBRE senior director, industrial investments, Matthew Lee says. “These buyers are happy to wait it out on an asset in order to take advantage of retail or residential redevelopment opportunities down the track.”
Click through to the next page to see graphics of City of Sydney Council's rezoning plans.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Employment lands in the City of Sydney Council area comprise three precincts:
(a) the southern employment lands – this area is about 265 hectares in size and stretches from the southwest corner of the Green Square Town Centre to the south west corner of the LGA. Generally the area is in the suburbs of Rosebery and Alexandria and is bordered by Gardeners Road to the south, McEvoy Street on the west and Mentmore Avenue and Botany Road on the east;
(b) the Moore Park employment lands – this area is about 3.6 hectares in size and includes a single large lot on which the Moore Park Supa Centa is currently located; and
(c) the Parramatta Road employment lands – this area is about 2.1 hectares in size and includes several small lots in Glebe. The area is bordered by Arundel Street and Parramatta Road and divided by Ross Street.
Source: City of Sydney Council
Click to open in new window:
 <a href="/images/2014/07/21/zoning-july-21-one.gif" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/21/zoning-july-21-one.gif" alt=""></a>
Source: City of Sydney
 <a href="/images/2014/07/21/zoning-july-21-two.gif" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/21/zoning-july-21-two.gif" alt=""></a>
Source: City of Sydney
Existing City of Sydney Southern Employment Lands in context
<a href="/images/2014/07/21/zoning-july-21-three.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/21/zoning-july-21-three.jpg" alt=""></a>
Source: City of Sydney Council 
</body></html>

City of Sydney planning to rezone swathes of southern industrial areas

<html><body>
Lara West, in the northern area of Greater Geelong, has been rezoned to include a 62-acre, 650 lot, subdivision called Manzeene Village.
Planning Minister Matthew Guy said that it will make a link between central <a href="/news">Lara</a> and the Lara West growth area, being one of the most significant in Geelong with forecasts of accommodating 10,000 people.
Earlier this year, in February, a 390-hectare Lara West precinct was approved.
"Manzeene Village completes the planning picture for the Lara West growth front, which will feature an employment precinct, a large neighbourhood activity hub, three new schools, community services, sporting facilities and parkland that can be enjoyed by everyone in the region,” said Guy.
A local commercial area will be built, as well as 5,000 square metres of local parkland.
"Development at Lara West will be undertaken gradually over 30 years to help meet the needs of the projected 500,000 extra residents in the Greater Geelong region by 2050," he said.
New suburbs Lovely Banks and Batesford South are the next planned for Geelong’s north.
</body></html>

Greater Geelong rezoning includes new Lara West subdivision

<html><body>
A new zoning plan and planning controls for much of the City of Sydney’s employment lands has been endorsed by the council for exhibition. This covers much land currently zoned for business or industrial purposes.
Some industrial areas are expected to be retained for traditional uses, while other zones are to be introduced or expanded. This includes a B6 Enterprise Corridor zone to add to the B7 Business Park zone.
Knight Frank’s manager of town planning for Sydney, David Workman, said that the proposed changes are extensive and it is crucial to be aware of the implications on an individual property basis.
“A small change can often make a significant difference either positive or negative, particularly in terms the type of development permitted within a new zone and at what density,” Workman said.
The report that had been prepared for the Council included the following proposed changes:
<ul>
<li>A core industrial zone in the South West part that will continue to accommodate ‘traditional industrial’ uses;</li>
<li>A flexible enterprise corridor zone through the centre part that will accommodate lower density industrial and commercial uses; and</li>
<li>Business park zones in the North West and South East parts that are close to transport, services and amenities and that will provide for denser commercial activity over time.</li>
</ul>
Source: Knight Frank
It’s noted that private residential development will be restricted on the employment lands, with the exception of a Botany Road section that currently permits shop-top housing and senior housing.
Affordable housing opportunities may also be provided for.
Daniel O’Brien, Knight Frank South Sydney agency director, said that the rezoning for some of those currently zoned IN1 General Industrial means good things with the potential for higher order commercial uses than currently allowed. He also noted that it’s expected to drive employment, and therefore commercial development.
“The trend for older industrial style buildings, to be regenerated into funky office space will only gather more pace and as long as the current demand for this type of office accommodation remains strong, it will be a win:win for developers, tenants and occupiers and building owners,” Mr O’Brien said.
</body></html>

Zoning

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Zoning

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News