Landcom’s proposed build-to-rent housing development at 138, 144, and 146 Military Road, East Lismore, has gained approval from the Northern Regional Planning Panel on 20 November 2024.
The project, which was lodged on 10 September 2024, aims to deliver 50 residential units, with 20% dedicated to affordable rental housing. It features two residential flat buildings ranging from three to four storeys. The design includes communal facilities, parking for 51 vehicles, and bicycle storage for 20 bicycles. Additionally, the project incorporates landscaping, stormwater management systems, and road widening on Military Road.
This development aligns with the State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021 and addresses local housing needs. Moreover, it strives to complement the existing character of the neighbourhood while meeting contemporary sustainability standards.
Development Overview
The development will offer a mix of studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments, providing options for a diverse range of residents. Furthermore, Landcom has allocated 20% of the units as affordable rental housing under the Housing SEPP, making this project a significant contribution to improving housing affordability in the area.
The site’s elevated position above the Probable Maximum Flood level ensures resilience to flooding. It replaces vacant lots with modern, sustainable infrastructure designed to meet high environmental and social standards. Importantly, environmental assessments confirmed no significant ecological or biodiversity impacts. To enhance environmental protections, the team has planned additional measures to safeguard nearby primary koala habitats.
Artist impression of Crawford Road looking South by Landcom
Key Issues Addressed
The assessment process carefully considered several potential issues to ensure compliance with relevant regulations:
- Traffic and Parking
- Landcom exceeded statutory requirements by including 51 car spaces and 20 bicycle spaces.
- According to a traffic study, the development will generate only 27 peak-hour trips in the morning and 16 in the evening, ensuring minimal traffic disruption.
- Tree and Vegetation Management
- The team identified 35 trees for removal to accommodate construction and stormwater infrastructure. However, they plan to replace these with native species under an approved landscaping plan, ensuring environmental sustainability.
- Koala Habitat Protection
- Although mapped as secondary koala habitat, assessments revealed no key food trees on the site. Consequently, the project includes koala-friendly fencing and traffic-calming measures to facilitate safe wildlife movement.
- Sustainability and Flood Resilience
- The buildings are positioned above the Probable Maximum Flood level, and the stormwater management systems will handle overflows effectively. Additionally, the project adheres to sustainable building guidelines for energy and water efficiency.
- Noise and Amenity
- Noise impact assessments showed compliance with regulations. Moreover, the design incorporates setbacks and landscaping to preserve the neighbourhood’s amenity.
Approval by the Northern Regional Planning Panel
The Northern Regional Planning Panel, serving as the Consent Authority, reviewed the project and granted approval on 20 November 2024. Their decision followed a detailed evaluation of environmental, social, and planning considerations. Additionally, the panel acknowledged the project’s compliance with the State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021 and Lismore’s Development Control Plan. Importantly, no objections were submitted during the public exhibition period.
Project Team
A skilled team of professionals is delivering the project:
- Developer: Landcom
- Urban Planner: Newton Denny Chapelle
- Architect: St Clair Architecture
- Landscape Architect: Sprout Studio
- Traffic and Infrastructure Consultant: ADP Consulting
- Flora and Fauna Assessment: Eco Logical Australia
- Noise and Environmental Impact: MRA Consulting
For more information, search application number 5.2024.200.1 on the Lismore City Council’s website.
