Expected to inject an estimated $160 million into the local economy and create some 300 jobs, the rezoning proposals passed by North Sydney Council have made way for the construction of 500 homes plus an array of new restaurants, cafes, retail outlets and upgraded and new public parks, according to Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes. He added:
“St Leonards already boasts a thriving commercial sector and these approvals will pave the way for more people to live close to where they work in a vibrant community hub.”
The approvals include a site at 575-583 Pacific Highway where a residential tower rising to 18 floors is now permitted. Anticipated to boost the local economy by $31.4 million, the project will also see local heritage preserved by keeping the long-established building facade.
Meanwhile, rezoning of the 100 Christie Street site will see the Reserve upgraded and permit a 36-floor commercial and residential tower to be constructed where an office building now stands.
Rezoning success has also been achieved at 23-35 Atchison Street where a 16-floor building is planned subject to an upgrade of Hume Street Park and the establishment of a new park in Oxley Street.
A graphic design of proposed projects often accompanies development applications such as these, which must be lodged within six months to meet the Planning System Acceleration Programme guidelines under which the re-zonings were fast-tracked.