IRT Group has proposed a redevelopment project for the IRT Towradgi Park site. The $112 million plan, submitted to Wollongong City Council on 13 January 2025, aims to replace the existing seniors housing facilities with new independent living units and updated amenities. The proposal outlines a phased approach to construction to minimise disruptions for residents.
The 27,493-square-metre site currently includes 106 aged care beds and 68 independent living units. These structures, built in 1972, will be removed in stages and replaced with contemporary housing and shared facilities.
Overview of the Proposal
IRT Group plans to construct 85 independent living units in a mix of villas and apartments. The design incorporates accessibility features tailored to senior residents. The proposal also includes a neighbourhood shop, café, and a resident clubhouse. These facilities aim to provide spaces for social interaction and convenient services for residents.
In addition, the development will feature landscaped gardens and a public pedestrian lane connecting Marlo Road and Murranar Road. This pathway restores a historical community link and enhances connectivity in the area.
To address the medium flood risk classification of the site, the design incorporates raised buildings and a modern stormwater management system. The development also considers environmental factors, such as the proximity to a riparian corridor and coastal wetlands, by including setbacks and sustainable landscaping.
Key Features of the Development
- Residential Units: IRT Group proposes 85 independent living units designed for seniors.
- Amenities: The project includes a neighbourhood shop, café, and resident clubhouse.
- Flood Mitigation: The design includes raised buildings and improved stormwater systems to manage flood risks.
- Sustainability: The development meets BASIX standards for energy, water, and thermal efficiency.
- Landscaping: Plans include compensatory tree plantings and the addition of public pathways.
Artist’s impression by GW Architects
Key Planning and Environmental Considerations
Zoning and Permissibility:
The site is zoned R2 Low Density Residential under the Wollongong Local Environmental Plan 2009. Seniors housing is an allowable use in this zone.
Flood Risk:
Because the site falls within a medium flood risk precinct, the proposal incorporates specific measures to mitigate potential flooding. These measures include raising building platforms and enhancing drainage systems to reduce risks during extreme weather events.
Environmental Sensitivities:
The site is adjacent to a riparian corridor and mapped coastal wetlands. To comply with environmental regulations, the project includes a 10-metre buffer from the riparian zone. Landscaping has been designed to minimise impacts on the surrounding environment.
Tree and Vegetation Management:
The redevelopment requires the removal of trees on the site to accommodate construction. However, the proposal includes compensatory advanced tree planting and additional landscaping to address this loss.
Staging and Demolition:
Demolition and construction will occur in three stages. This approach will help maintain continuity for current residents and minimise disruption in the area. The project also includes transitional arrangements for existing facilities to remain partially operational during redevelopment.
Impact on the Local Community
The redevelopment reintroduces a public pedestrian lane between Marlo Road and Murranar Road. Historically, this access route provided connectivity for the community. By formalising and restoring this pathway, the development aims to maintain its significance for local residents.
In addition to the pedestrian lane, the project includes amenities and landscaped areas that align with local planning and environmental standards. These features are expected to improve the site’s integration with the surrounding neighbourhood. The proposal also addresses site-specific challenges, including flood risk and environmental sensitivities, to ensure compliance with relevant planning instruments.
Project Team
- Developer: IRT Group
- Urban Planner: MMJ Town Planning & Advisory
- Architects: GW Architects
- Landscape Designers: Arcadia
- Civil Engineering: Jones Nicholson
- Flood and Stormwater Management: WMA Water and Martens
- Arborist: Moore Trees
- Traffic Impact Assessment: Bitzios Consulting
- Environmental Reports: Biosis, EMM
- Acoustic and Waste Management: Harwood Acoustics and Elephants Foot Recycling Solutions
For more information, search the application number DA-2025/26 on Wollongong City Council’s website.
