A new concept development application has been submitted for Norwest Quarter, a major mixed-use precinct in Norwest. Mulpha Norwest Quarter Development Pty Ltd lodged the application on 17 February 2025, proposing a residential and commercial precinct spanning multiple stages.
If approved, the nine-tower development will deliver 935 new apartments, along with retail, medical, and childcare facilities. The Sydney Central City Planning Panel will assess the application.
A Plan for Urban Growth in Norwest
The Norwest area has evolved rapidly, transitioning from a business hub into a high-density residential and commercial precinct. This proposal supports that transformation by integrating housing, employment, and public spaces.
Located at 40 Solent Circuit and 2-6 Maitland Place, the site is positioned for high-density development due to its proximity to Norwest Metro Station. The masterplan aligns with The Hills Local Environmental Plan 2019, which supports urban renewal in accessible locations.
Historically, this land was vacant and earmarked for future urban expansion. Now, the concept masterplan aims to create a walkable, sustainable neighbourhood with integrated green spaces and public amenities.
Key Milestones in the Planning Process
This project has been years in the making. Several key planning milestones have shaped the current proposal:
- 2014 – Mulpha submitted a Planning Proposal to The Hills Shire Council requesting changes to zoning and height limits.
- 2020 – The Council approved amendments to The Hills LEP 2019, allowing high-density residential and commercial uses.
- 2021 – The Stage 1 Development Application was lodged, featuring 196 apartments and retail spaces.
- 2022 – The approval of Stage 1 included modifications, reducing the number of apartments to 181.
- 2024 – An application was submitted for first-use approval of non-residential spaces in Stage 1.
- 2025 – The Concept Masterplan DA was lodged, outlining the vision for all future stages.
Since Stage 1 is already under construction, this Concept DA will guide the remaining four stages, ensuring a cohesive design and infrastructure strategy.
What the Concept DA Proposes
The Norwest Quarter masterplan defines the site’s long-term development framework, including:
- Nine residential towers ranging from 11 to 26 storeys
- 935 apartments, providing a mix of housing options
- Retail, medical, and childcare facilities
- Publicly accessible open spaces
- New pedestrian pathways and cycle connections
- Sustainability and green infrastructure strategies
To maximize urban efficiency, the tallest towers will be located along Solent Circuit, while mid-rise and lower-rise buildings will transition toward Spurway Drive and Maitland Place.
The development will also incorporate a retail plaza, landscaped public spaces, and active transport connections. These features are designed to enhance walkability and community engagement.
Public Spaces and Sustainability Initiatives
Mulpha’s proposal places a strong emphasis on sustainability and urban greening. The masterplan integrates:
- Deep soil zones to support tree planting and stormwater retention
- Energy-efficient buildings designed to minimize emissions
- Shaded communal areas to improve outdoor comfort
- Green corridors and open spaces making up over 50% of the site
These measures aim to balance urban density with environmental sustainability, ensuring a livable, future-ready community.
Development Staging
The Norwest Quarter masterplan will be delivered in five stages, with Stage 1 already under construction.
Stage 1 (Under Construction)
- Buildings B & C (13 and 23 storeys)
- 181 apartments
- Retail, business, and medical facilities
- Basement parking (4 levels, 460 spaces)
Stage 2
- Buildings D & I (26 and 11 storeys)
- 208 apartments
- Basement parking (3.5 levels, 340 spaces)
Stage 3
- Buildings E & F (24 and 23 storeys)
- 365 apartments
- Basement parking (4 levels, 399 spaces)
Stage 4
- Buildings G & H (11 and 11 storeys)
- 110 apartments
- Basement parking (2 levels, 177 spaces)
Stage 5
- Building J (25 storeys)
- 71 apartments
- Basement parking (3 levels, 129 spaces)
Each stage will introduce new public domain upgrades, pedestrian-friendly spaces, and transport infrastructure.
Why Is a Concept Masterplan Needed?
Although Stage 1 is under construction, a Concept DA is essential for:
- Establishing a long-term vision for the entire site
- Ensuring design consistency across all five stages
- Defining infrastructure delivery (roads, utilities, and community spaces)
- Guiding future Development Applications for Stages 2 to 5
- Allowing flexibility while maintaining planning controls
Securing masterplan approval will enable efficient and streamlined development across future stages.
Planning and Compliance
The site is zoned R4 – High-Density Residential under The Hills Local Environmental Plan 2019. The proposal complies with floor space ratio (FSR) controls, which permit:
- An FSR of 2.9:1 at 40 Solent Circuit
- An FSR of 3.0:1 at 2-6 Maitland Place
Given that the proposal exceeds 300 dwellings, Transport for NSW will review traffic and transport impacts. Additionally, Endeavour Energy will assess the proposal due to the presence of high-voltage power infrastructure along Spurway Drive.
Project Team
The project team includes:
- Developer: Mulpha Norwest Quarter Development Pty Ltd
- Urban Planner: Egis Consulting
- Urban Design Consultant: Terroir
- Landscape & Public Domain Design: REALM Studios
- Contamination Consultant: EI Australia
- Cost Estimator: MBM
- Sustainability Consultant: Finding Infinity
Next Steps
The Sydney Central City Planning Panel will assess the proposal based on NSW planning policies. To view the application, search for application number 24-000373 on The Hills Shire Council’s website.
