Macquarie Park, a bustling hub of education and business in Sydney, could soon see the addition of a landmark development catering to students and young professionals. The NSW Land and Environment Court has granted approval for a $70 million student accommodation project proposed by Freecity Macpark Development Pty Ltd. Lodged on 14 December 2023, the development will include a 19-storey co-living and student housing facility at 169–171 Herring Road, addressing the growing demand for affordable accommodation in this thriving suburb.
Context on Macquarie Park’s Growth
Macquarie Park has experienced rapid urbanisation over the past decade, driven by its strategic location, proximity to Macquarie University, and transport connectivity. The area benefits from the Sydney Metro Northwest line, which links it directly to Sydney’s CBD and surrounding suburbs. Once an industrial precinct, Macquarie Park has evolved into a vibrant area hosting major corporations, shopping centres, and residential developments.
This transformation has increased the demand for infrastructure and housing, particularly among students and young professionals who seek affordable, centrally located living options.
The Need for Student Housing
Sydney’s growing student population has placed significant pressure on the housing market. A recent report from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute highlighted a shortage of affordable and purpose-built student accommodation in urban centres. Developments like this address these gaps by offering modern amenities tailored to students’ needs, reducing reliance on traditional rental markets.
Details of the Proposed Development
The proposed facility features:
- 507 residential rooms, designed for single and double occupancy, offering flexible and affordable options.
- Two basement levels, including car parking spaces and storage.
- A ground-floor café, open to the public, fostering community interaction.
- Landscaping and green spaces, which provide aesthetic value and environmental benefits.
The building also incorporates co-living spaces, a modern concept gaining popularity globally. These spaces promote shared living environments, helping students build social connections while enjoying privacy in their own rooms.
Reasons for Council Refusal
The City of Ryde Council raised several objections, including:
- Non-compliance with planning controls: The proposed height and density exceeded permissible limits, raising concerns about overshadowing and visual dominance.
- Impact on local amenity: Insufficient landscaping, privacy concerns, and potential noise issues were highlighted.
- Traffic and infrastructure strain: Concerns about increased traffic volumes, parking shortages, and pressure on drainage systems were key factors in the refusal.
Land and Environment Court Ruling
In response to the appeal, the NSW Land and Environment Court approved the project with strict conditions to address these concerns. The court recognised the importance of student housing but emphasised the need for compliance with planning and environmental standards.
The conditions included:
- Improved landscaping and green space design to enhance the building’s integration into the neighbourhood.
- Noise mitigation strategies, such as acoustic barriers and soundproofing.
- Compliance with stormwater management regulations to prevent strain on local drainage systems.
- A detailed traffic management plan to minimise disruption during construction and operation.
Design and Sustainability Features
The development prioritises environmentally sustainable practices, incorporating:
- Energy-efficient systems: Solar panels and energy-saving appliances.
- Water-saving measures: Rainwater harvesting and efficient plumbing systems.
- Green landscaping: The inclusion of deep soil zones and native plants to promote biodiversity.
These features align with the City of Ryde’s broader urban planning goals of fostering green and liveable urban environments.
Economic and Social Benefits
The $70 million investment is expected to create numerous jobs during construction and ongoing roles in property management and retail. Local businesses, particularly in hospitality and retail, stand to benefit from increased foot traffic and spending by the residents.
Challenges and Reactions
While the development promises significant benefits, local residents have expressed concerns about privacy, noise, and traffic. Developers have pledged to engage with the community and ensure transparent communication throughout the project’s construction and operation phases.
Project Team
- Developer: Freecity Macpark Development Pty Ltd
- Architect: Cox Architects
- Urban Planner: Martens & Associates
- Landscape Consultant: NBRS
- Traffic Consultant: SBMG Planning
- Acoustic Consultant: Pulse White Noise Acoustics
- Waste Management Consultant: Elephants Foot Consulting
- Geotechnical Consultant: Martens Engineering
For More Information
For further details about this development, search the application number LDA 2023/0320 on the City of Ryde’s website.
