HMC Capital has submitted plans to The Hills Shire Council for a neighbourhood shopping centre at 8-10 Withers Road, North Kellyville. Lodged on 20 November 2024, the proposal aims to revitalise the area by introducing modern retail and dining options. Moreover, the development aligns with the precinct’s growth and urban planning goals.
Project Overview
The shopping centre will feature 22 tenancies, offering a mix of shops, restaurants, cafes, and take-away food outlets. With a gross floor area of 6,930 m², the development includes:
- Parking facilities with 179 car spaces and 62 bicycle spaces to cater to diverse transport needs.
- Landscaped plazas and walkways designed to encourage outdoor dining and community interaction.
- Infrastructure to support modern conveniences, including six click-and-collect bays for efficient shopping.
Importantly, the design complies with local planning guidelines, such as height restrictions and character considerations. At just 8.5 metres tall, the building integrates seamlessly into the surrounding environment.
A Vision for Growth
The development replaces an agricultural site that has served the area for decades. Therefore, it reflects the region’s transition into a thriving residential and commercial hub. By prioritising accessibility and sustainability, the shopping centre aims to connect seamlessly with the surrounding neighbourhood.
Thoughtful design ensures that public spaces remain inviting and safe. For instance, wide pathways, tree-lined plazas, and integrated landscaping foster a welcoming atmosphere. These features aim to create a vibrant community space that encourages both locals and visitors to gather.
Artist Impression by Bayer Stevens
Addressing Environmental and Traffic Concerns
To address community concerns, the project team has included measures to minimise environmental impacts and ensure efficient traffic flow:
- Bushfire Safety: The site’s bushfire-prone location was thoroughly assessed. Protective measures include asset protection zones and fire-resistant materials for critical structures.
- Stormwater Management: Advanced systems will manage water flow, directing stormwater into existing infrastructure along Sandbanks Avenue.
- Traffic and Parking: Access points on Withers Road, Sandbanks Avenue, and Nullabor Street have been strategically placed to avoid congestion. A transport impact assessment confirms minimal traffic disruption from the proposed development.
These proactive steps demonstrate the project’s commitment to maintaining safety and environmental sustainability.
Community-Focused Design
The development is designed with the local community in mind. Not only will the public plazas include seating areas, but they will also feature wide walkways and spaces for outdoor dining. As a result, these elements create opportunities for social interaction and enhance the precinct’s overall appeal.
Landscaping is also central to the design. By planting 42 trees, the project offsets the removal of 37 existing trees. Consequently, this approach ensures a greener and more aesthetically pleasing environment for the area.
Project Team
A skilled team of professionals is bringing this vision to life:
- Developer: HMC Capital
- Urban Planner: Willowtree Planning Pty Ltd
- Architectural Design: Bayer Stevens
- Civil Engineering: Henry & Hymas
- Landscape Planning: Site Image
- Bushfire Assessment: Australian Bushfire Protection Planners
- Acoustic Analysis: Rodney Stevens Acoustics
- Waste Management: Onemilegrid
- Geotechnical Investigation: Geotesta
For further details on this proposal, search the application number PAN-490302 on The Hills Shire Council website.
