The construction of a 12-storey residential tower in Edgecliff has been greenlit despite initial objections and a contentious battle with residents. The bold decision marks a significant shift in the architectural landscape of Sydney’s Eastern suburbs.
A Controversial Decision
Initially rejected by Woollahra councillors in July 2022 due to concerns over the drastic increase in height from the existing 14m limit to 46m, the plan for the residential tower at 136-148 New South Head Rd faced considerable local opposition.
However, following the developers’ strategic appeal to the NSW Planning Department, a gateway determination paved the way for a surprising reversal.
After public consultations revealed a 63 per cent majority in favour of the development, the Council decided to approve the high rise, overturning their previous stance.
Mixed Reactions Among Residents
The decision has elicited a wide range of responses from the community. Supporters, like Double Bay resident Tom Pongrass, hail the development as a crucial step towards addressing Sydney’s acute housing shortage, praising the project for its potential to inject modernity into Edgecliff’s dated cityscape. On the other side of the debate, detractors raise concerns over the infrastructure’s ability to cope with the influx of residents the new tower will bring, fearing exacerbation of already problematic traffic conditions.
The approval has also sparked a dialogue about the broader implications of urban density and development control. Liberal Cr Sarah Swan criticized the NSW Government’s approach to increasing density, framing the council’s approval as a strategic move to retain influence over the developmental trajectory. Meanwhile, Independent Cr Mark Silcocks and Green Cr Nicola Grieve expressed their reservations, highlighting the complex interplay between local governance and state planning authorities.
Project Details
Envisioned at the heart of this development is a blend of residential, commercial, and retail spaces. The Edgecliff project promises to deliver 41 residential apartments, ranging from one to five bedrooms, alongside three to four levels dedicated to commercial use and a vibrant ground-floor retail area.
The design also includes three levels of basement parking, catering to the anticipated needs of future residents and visitors.
This development marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Edgecliff, signifying a departure from traditional zoning limits and an embrace of a future of denser, mixed-use urban environments.
Published 2-April-2024
