The Department of Planning and Environment has recommended major modifications to the Sharks development should be approved, but with reduced building heights on the edges.
In a statement on Tuesday, the department said it had completed an assessment of the proposed changes to Woolooware Bay Town Centre and had referred the application to the independent Planning Assessment Commission (PAC) for determination.
If approved by the PAC, the changes will see:
- New residential and hotel buildings ranging from 8 to 15 storeys on the eastern part of the site, which was previously approved for a four-storey retail centre with rooftop parking.
- A new centre of excellence attached to the stadium.
- A change to the approved subdivision to accommodate the future residential and hotel uses.
The department's executive director for key sites and industry assessments, Anthea Sargeant, said the department supported the increase above the retail centre, but had also addressed community concerns.
“We listened to the community’s feedback and reduced building heights at the development’s eastern section to protect the area’s character and amenity,” Ms Sargeant said.
“Residential buildings B and C, above the retail centre, are recommended to be reduced from 10-16 storeys and 11 storeys respectively to a maximum height of 8-9 storeys at the edges of the site.
“The department considers the proposed increase in residential density and introduction of hotel uses has strategic merit.
“This proposal if approved will increase housing supply and diversity, and will add strong vitality and economic benefits to the new town centre.”
The original concept plan for the development was approved by the PAC in August, 2012.
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