A $15.9 million high tech, light industrial and self-storage facility could be built in Production Avenue, Kogarah, next to the Darrell Lea high-rise residential development.
Details contained in the development application lodged with Bayside Council proposes an amalgamation of lots at 16-28 Production Avenue which is currently occupied by seven warehouses and industrial units, giving a total site area of 4037 square-metres.
The adjacent 3.3-hectare former Darrell Lea site at 152-200 Rocky Point Road has been developed as a master-planned community with 550 apartments and 20 townhouses.
The proposed Production Avenue high tech and light industrial development would be separated from the Darrell Lea site by a six-metre driveway or setback.
It would comprise four-storeys and have 22 storage units, 38 light industrial, nine high-tech units, a cafe, meeting rooms and a roof top communal terrace.
There would be basement parking for 75 cars.
The storage units will be accessible 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
"The relationship of the proposed industrial development with an adjoining sensitive residential land use has been well considered in the design of the building to ensure no detrimental impacts will result from this interface," the DA's Statement of Environmental Effects said.
Given that the taller residential towers will be able to look into the terrace an awning will be placed over it for screening from above, the SEE said.
"It is anticipated the residential balconies will have high useage outside work hours and on weekends distinct from the industrial communal space which would be used during typical work hours.
"The proposed development will have a positive impact on the appearance of the site and locality," the SEE concluded.
It is located in an established light industrial area and will replace an existing light industrial building. The use is consistent with the Light Industrial zoning.
The immediate area to the north is zoned light industrial while the residential development at the Darrell Lea site was rezoned R4 high density residential in 2014.
The proposed variety of industrial uses responds to the changing demographics of the area that is moving away from typical industry and trade-based employment and more towards light and high-tech industries.