A landmark mixed-use development in Crows Nest has been approved by the NSW Independent Planning Commission (IPC). Known as Five Ways, Crows Nest, the project will deliver a transformative new building at 391-423 Pacific Highway, 3-15 Falcon Street, and 8 Alexander Street in the North Sydney local government area. Proposed by Deicorp Construction Pty Ltd, the $141.3 million development marks a significant step in the urban renewal of the St Leonards and Crows Nest precinct. The application, SSD-66826207, was referred to the IPC because of its scale, community significance, and objections from North Sydney Council. Approval was granted on 23 December 2024.
Overview of the Project
The project will replace outdated low-rise commercial premises and a non-digital billboard on a 3,200.6 square metre site. Bordered by Pacific Highway, Falcon Street, and Alexander Street, the site is located near the Crows Nest Metro Station, which is set to open soon. This prime location supports transport-oriented development and aligns with strategic growth plans for Sydney.
Deicorp lodged the proposal on 6 May 2024 with the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure (DPHI). The 22-storey building will integrate residential, retail, and commercial uses while improving pedestrian access and sustainability. With the Metro Station just 350 metres away and St Leonards Train Station nearby, the site offers excellent connectivity.
Key Features of the Development
The development includes several key features:
- Residential Units: The project will deliver 188 apartments, with 48 (25.5%) set aside for affordable housing. The Housing State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) allows for height and density bonuses in exchange for affordable housing. Apartment layouts will include 33 one-bedroom, 118 two-bedroom, and 37 three-bedroom units.
- Commercial and Retail Spaces: The building will offer over 8,000 square metres of retail and commercial space. Tenants will have access to flexible layouts across the ground floor, mezzanine, and first level, which aim to activate the precinct.
- Parking and Accessibility: Seven basement levels will provide 220 car spaces and 302 bicycle spaces. End-of-trip facilities, such as secure bike storage and showers, will support sustainable travel options.
- Public Amenities: Two pedestrian links will connect Alexander Street, Falcon Street, and Pacific Highway. Additionally, landscaped communal areas at podium level will enhance the public domain.
- Sustainability: The project incorporates energy-efficient lighting, water-sensitive urban design, and high-performance building materials to achieve sustainable outcomes.
Architectural render by Turner
Approval Process and IPC Referral
The Five Ways development was classified as a State Significant Development (SSD) under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. Its estimated cost of over $75 million and the inclusion of affordable housing met the SSD criteria. However, North Sydney Council objected to aspects of the proposal, including its height, density, and traffic impacts. As a result, the application was referred to the IPC.
The IPC reviewed the project in light of community concerns, council objections, and strategic planning frameworks. After thorough consideration, it approved the project with several conditions to mitigate potential impacts.
Reasons for Approval
The IPC outlined several reasons for granting approval:
- Strategic Fit: The project aligns with the St Leonards and Crows Nest 2036 Plan, which prioritizes high-density development near transport hubs. It also supports the Greater Sydney Region Plan’s goals for housing and infrastructure improvements.
- Affordable Housing: By allocating 25.5% of apartments to affordable housing, the project exceeds the minimum requirements under the Housing SEPP. This contributes to addressing Sydney’s housing affordability challenges.
- Proximity to Transport: The site’s location near Crows Nest Metro Station, St Leonards Train Station, and bus routes makes it ideal for transport-oriented development. Reduced reliance on private vehicles aligns with sustainability objectives.
- Design Quality: The design prioritizes liveability, with landscaped communal spaces, cross-ventilation, and public pathways that enhance connectivity. Adequate parking and access provisions also support functionality.
- Economic Benefits: The project will create 642 construction jobs and 55 permanent roles. Retail and commercial spaces will boost the local economy.
- Conditions for Impact Management: To address concerns, the IPC imposed conditions such as:
- Annual updates to a Green Travel Plan in consultation with Transport for NSW.
- Noise and vibration controls during construction.
- Measures to protect Aboriginal cultural heritage and comply with heritage impact assessments.
Community and Environmental Considerations
The Five Ways intersection is a focal point in the area, offering visibility and accessibility. During consultations, residents raised concerns about overshadowing, traffic, and noise. However, the IPC concluded that these issues could be managed with mitigation measures. It also praised the project’s sustainability initiatives, including advanced stormwater filtration and energy-efficient systems.
By integrating pedestrian-friendly pathways, communal spaces, and retail activation, the development promises to enhance the area’s liveability while supporting population growth.
Strategic Importance
This development exemplifies the transition underway in St Leonards and Crows Nest, where strategic planning aims to balance growth and liveability. Leveraging its proximity to Sydney Metro infrastructure, the project supports higher density while maintaining a focus on community and environmental sustainability.
Project Team
The development’s success reflects the collaboration of a skilled project team:
- Developer: Deicorp Construction Pty Ltd
- Urban Planner and Environmental Consultant: Gyde Consulting
- Traffic Consultant: Mott MacDonald
- Acoustic Consultant: Acoustic Logic
- Heritage Consultant: GML Heritage
- Landscape Architect: Arcadia
- Structural Engineer: Robert Bird Group
- Community Housing Provider: St George Community Housing
- Architectural Firm: Turner
For more information, search application number SSD-66826207 on the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure website.
