Artistic Impression by Platform Architects
A residential development is proposed for 3 Fairlight Crescent, Fairlight, by Boston Blyth Fleming Pty Ltd, with a development application (DA2024/1503) lodged on 11 November 2024. The project aims to replace an existing residential structure with a new design that aligns with local zoning requirements and planning controls, while addressing various site-specific constraints.
Development Details
The proposed project at 3 Fairlight Crescent includes the demolition of the existing brick residential building, which currently contains eight one-bedroom units. The new structure is designed as a four-story residential flat building to provide additional space for housing in the area. The development will feature:
- Apartments and Layout: Four three-bedroom apartments with a layout designed to maximise access to views and natural light.
- Parking and Accessibility: A single basement level accommodating seven parking spaces accessible via a car lift from Fairlight Crescent, along with internal lift and staircase access across building levels.
- Landscaping and Recreation: A pool and spa are planned within a landscaped area that includes perimeter planting and on-slab landscaping at each level to meet local control requirements.
- Design and Material Choices: The building’s material palette has been selected by Platform Architects with consideration for the area’s residential character and surrounding waterfront developments.
The proposal includes elements that exceed certain local planning controls related to building height and floor space ratio. These variations are supported by a clause 4.6 request for flexibility due to the site’s unique context and orientation.
Site Context
The subject site is located at 3 Fairlight Crescent, Fairlight, in a C4 Environmental Living zone under the Manly Local Environmental Plan 2013. The 768.6 sqm site features a narrow frontage and slopes downwards towards Fairlight Beach along its southern boundary. This location provides views of Sydney Harbour and is adjacent to publicly accessible areas, including the Fairlight Walk along the 10-kilometre Manly Scenic Walkway, connecting with Fairlight Beach Rock Pool.
The proposed building will replace an older, two- to three-story structure and is designed to align with surrounding developments, which include several three- and four-story residential buildings. The proposed landscape includes native and exotic plants that respond to varying site microclimates. Screening trees, hedges, and feature palms are planned along the waterfront elevation to maintain privacy and visual continuity with the foreshore.
Planning Considerations
The project is reviewed under the Manly Local Environmental Plan (MLEP 2013) and Manly Development Control Plan (MDCP 2013), which guide aspects such as design, density, setbacks, and ecological considerations. The site’s C4 Environmental Living zoning allows for low-impact residential development. Key considerations and assessments include:
- Building Height and Density: The proposed structure exceeds the standard height limit of 8.5 metres, particularly along the southern side, where it extends 30.5% beyond the limit due to the site’s topography. The project’s floor space ratio also exceeds the prescribed density, with a proposed ratio of 1.01:1. These variations are supported by a clause 4.6 variation request, noting the design’s approach to align with existing view corridors and residential patterns.
- Impact on Views and Solar Access: A Visual and View Impact Assessment confirms that the design minimises impact on public and private view corridors, with solar access maintained for neighbouring properties in accordance with MDCP 2013 guidelines.
- Stormwater and Environmental Impact: The stormwater management system, designed by IGS Consulting, is intended to control runoff and support water quality standards near the foreshore. Additionally, an Arboricultural Impact Assessment and Flora and Fauna Assessment outline ecological impacts, with mitigation strategies designed to maintain local biodiversity.
- Privacy and Amenity: With primary orientations towards the south, the apartments maintain privacy from neighbouring properties, using screened windows and landscaping along boundaries to reduce direct overlooking.
Project Team
- Developer: Boston Blyth Fleming Pty Ltd
- Architects: Platform Architects
- Landscape Architects: Dangar Barin Smith
- Urban Planner: Boston Blyth Fleming Pty Ltd
- Traffic Consultant: Stanbury Traffic Planning
- Arborist: Lee Hancock Consulting Arborist
- Environmental Assessment: East Coast Ecology
- Geotechnical Investigation: Douglas Partners
- Waste Management: Elephants Foot
- Acoustic Consultant: PWNA
- BCA Compliance & Access Report: Jensen Hughes
For more information, search the application number DA2024/1503 on the relevant Council’s website.
