Meriton Property Services Pty Ltd has submitted a Stage 2 Development Application (DA) for a mixed-use project at 118-130 Epsom Road and 905 South Dowling Street, Zetland. The application, lodged on 18 November 2024, is now open for public comment. The public exhibition period runs from 26 November 2024 to 14 January 2025. With an estimated cost of $179 million, this development is a major part of the transformation of the Green Square-Epsom Park precinct into a vibrant urban hub.
Details of the Development
This proposal represents the second of three planned stages for the site. It focuses on two main blocks, NW1 and NW2, which aim to deliver a balanced mix of residential, retail, and public open spaces. The development offers the following key features:
- Residential Units: A total of 282 apartments will be delivered, including 45 one-bedroom units, 174 two-bedroom units, and 63 three-bedroom units. The plan also includes adaptable and liveable housing options.
- Retail Opportunities: Three buildings will contain 656m² of ground-floor retail space. These shops aim to serve both residents and the wider community.
- Building Heights: Structures within the development will range from 3 to 14 storeys, aligning with the approved Concept DA and zoning regulations.
- Parking and Accessibility: The project provides three basement levels for parking, with 311 car spaces, 317 bicycle spaces, and 26 motorcycle spaces. In addition, the design includes four car-share spaces to support sustainable transport options.
- Green Spaces: Two new public parks and a central communal area are integral to the design. These spaces will enhance the local green infrastructure and provide recreational areas for residents.
The proposal complies with the MU1 Mixed Use zoning under the Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012. Moreover, it satisfies site-specific controls, ensuring a mix of housing, retail, and improved public amenities.
Artist Impression by Crone Architects
Project Context
The site is situated within the Green Square-Epsom Park precinct, one of Sydney’s most significant urban renewal areas. Notably, it lies close to Green Square Railway Station, Gunyama Park, and various commercial and community facilities. The design prioritises public and active transport, with pedestrian pathways and cycling networks enhancing connectivity.
Additionally, the development incorporates sustainable design features. These include compliance with BASIX energy and water targets, provision for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and deep soil landscaping to manage stormwater effectively.
Planning Compliance and Contributions
The project underwent a competitive design process, with Crone Architects winning for their innovative approach to integrating high-quality design with public spaces. Importantly, the Concept DA established the planning parameters, including a floor space ratio (FSR) of 2.2:1, supported by a 10% bonus for achieving design excellence.
The development meets these parameters and delivers several public benefits, including:
- Two public parks as part of the community infrastructure outlined in a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA).
- Pedestrian links and new streets that enhance connectivity and accessibility within the precinct.
Minor adjustments, such as solar access variations for one unit, are necessary to maintain consistency with the approved Concept DA while upholding architectural and environmental standards.
The Project Team
The following companies are contributing to the project:
- Developer: Meriton Property Services Pty Ltd
- Urban Planner: Karimbla Constructions Services (NSW) Pty Ltd
- Architects: Crone Architects
- Landscape Design: Urbis
- Traffic Consultants: Traffix
- Environmental and Sustainability Consultants: Integreco Consulting (BASIX and energy performance)
- Acoustic Consultants: Acoustic Logic
- Geotechnical Engineers: Douglas Partners
- Stormwater Engineers: Sky Engineering
- Flood Impact Consultants: Egis
- Waste Management Consultants: Elephants Foot
- CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design): Planning Ingenuity
- Public Art Strategy: Aileen Sage
- Survey Plans: Wayne Allen Diver-Tuck
- BCA Compliance Report: Certatude
- Reflectivity Assessment: SLR Consulting
- Wind Assessment: CPP Consulting
- Accessibility Assessment: Abe Consulting
- Arboricultural Assessment: Jackson Nature Works
Exhibition and How to Have Your Say
This Stage 2 DA marks a significant investment in the Zetland area, contributing to the revitalisation of Green Square. The application is now open for public comment until 14 January 2025. Residents and community members are encouraged to share their feedback.
For more information or to provide a submission, search for application number DA/2024/816 on the City of Sydney Council’s website.
