Artist Impression by Olsson Architects
Huajun Investment Pty Ltd has lodged a $32.74 million Development Application (DA2024/0220) with the City of Canada Bay Council. The proposal aims to transform 38-42 Leicester Avenue in Strathfield by replacing three detached dwellings with a seven-storey residential flat building. The project aligns with the Strathfield Triangle precinct’s goal of increasing housing supply and enhancing urban character.
The development will deliver 52 apartments, a mix of one to three-bedroom units, along with three levels of basement parking, rooftop communal spaces, and landscaped gardens. If approved, this project will support the precinct’s urban renewal efforts.
Project Overview
The proposed development includes apartments designed to suit diverse households. Adaptable and liveable silver-level units will cater to accessibility needs. To enhance the living environment, the project incorporates communal spaces totaling 724.9m². These spaces include a rooftop garden and a landscaped rear area with deep soil zones.
The single driveway on Leicester Avenue will replace three existing access points, streamlining vehicle movements. Three basement levels will provide parking for 64 cars and storage for 115 bicycles. Over 71% of apartments will meet Apartment Design Guide (ADG) standards for sunlight access, receiving at least two hours of light in mid-winter. Additionally, winter gardens on the eastern façade will reduce noise impacts from Leicester Avenue.
Planning Variations
The application seeks approval for several variations to local planning controls under the Canada Bay Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2013 and the Strathfield Triangle Development Control Plan (DCP) 2013.
The building height, one of the key variations, will exceed the 25m limit by 11.2%, reaching 27.8m. This additional height allows for lift overruns and rooftop communal spaces. The Clause 4.6 request justifies this variation by explaining how it improves residential amenity and aligns with the desired urban character.
Reduced setbacks are also proposed for the Leicester Avenue frontage. Levels one through five will have a 3.5m setback instead of the DCP’s 4m guideline, while levels six and above meet the 8m setback requirement. These adjustments aim to optimise solar access and maintain a consistent streetscape.
In terms of building depth, the design extends to 24m, exceeding the DCP’s maximum of 18m. This increased depth allows for improved internal layouts and natural ventilation while adhering to ADG requirements.
Deep soil coverage will account for 13.8% of the site, slightly below DCP guidelines. However, the landscaping strategy will include 24 new trees, 27 large shrubs, and a green space at the rear to offset the shortfall. Communal open spaces will exceed the DCP minimum of 25%, balancing these variations.
Transport and Accessibility
The project will generate minimal additional traffic, according to a Traffic Impact Assessment. During peak hours, the development is expected to add six to seven vehicle trips. The proposed driveway design, featuring a left-in, left-out arrangement, will minimise traffic disruptions on Leicester Avenue.
The site’s location provides excellent access to public transport. Strathfield train station and the upcoming Strathfield North metro station are both within walking distance. The inclusion of bicycle storage supports sustainable transport options for residents and visitors.
Sustainability Features
The development will comply with BASIX standards by integrating energy-efficient systems and water-saving measures. Landscaped communal spaces and native plantings will enhance biodiversity while aligning with urban renewal goals.
Project Team
- Developer: Huajun Investment Pty Ltd
- Architects: Olsson Associates
- Urban Planner (Statement of Environmental Effects): Urbis
- Traffic Consultant: PeopleTrans
- Landscape Architect: Melissa Wilson Landscape Architects
- Acoustic Consultant: Acoustic Logic
- Construction Waste Management: Loka Consulting Engineers
Next Steps
The City of Canada Bay Council is currently reviewing the application. For more details, search application number DA2024/0220 on the Council’s website.
