#Projects: NORTH SYDNEY Developments & News

[Fabian]

A few things have been happening in North Sydney as of late in relation to upcoming developments & scrapers in this part of Sydney.

This thread I hope will become a discussion thread for proposals for scrapers plus little developments eg refurbishment of scrapers and little projects. Bigger projects such as Beau Monde can still have their own separate threads if so desired, but CULWULLA can decide that to see what works best

I went for a walk yesterday in the CBD and a few things have been going on.

Firstly the facade of the Novell building is getting a much needed facelift. I noticed a skywalker on the first floor of the Miller St side of the building. The red along the windows has been peeling off as well

Pic of Novell yesterday

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid90/p5085b6a26a0e1bf55a13db4e100d2c69/fa72af45.jpg

Also the facade of 124 Walker St has been done up over the past few months as well, actually being recladded, giving it a brand new and modern look. It beats the work done at 233 Castlereagh St in the Sydney CBD by a long shot

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid90/p8939c29e1e70b501555c90b420ce2d30/fa72af2f.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid90/p24ecb011574ed41d532836a3a3ecc40b/fa72ae6a.jpg

Harbour Watch Apartments in Berry St next to the Warringah Expressway is currently under construction. When completed it will have 48 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. The cheapest apartments are an affordable $345 000. The display suite is at 88 Berry St.

Unfortuantely, I have nothing new in relation to the following MAJOR developments proposed which include

*100 Pacific Highway (office Tower) - The Caltex is still open and trading
*Norberry Terrace - will be the tallest in North Sydney in terms of RL height & Second tallest overall
*North Sydney Station upgrade

And for the latest updates on Major North Sydney developements under construction, here are the links. Click on a building below to view their thread

Beau Monde (http://skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?s=&postid=1111022#post1111022)
La Maison on Pacific (http://skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=11160&perpage=20&pagenumber=3)

[climbing_crane]

Yep 124 Walker or the *KONICA* building is a fantastic makeover. I can't even remember what it used to look like but now it's a memorable building in North Sydney.

And when will Norberry Terrace start?

[spazpecker]

I'm delighted with the look of the Konica building and even more delighted that Novell is getting a spruce up !
Now.......what about the bloody SAP building ( that huge slab in the northern end of the CBD).......:bash:

[Fabian]

Originally posted by climbing_crane
And when will Norberry Terrace start?

It cannot start until the upgrade of North Sydney Station begins, which is still some years away. The design compeition is not set to be held until next year with completion by 2010 :bash:. The council restricted development as they believed the station could not cope with the increased influx of workers associated with the increased development.

And North Sydney is set to get yet another scraper in addition to what is on the list.

A 22 000 sq/m office tower will be built at the sites of 98 and 100 Arthur St which will be home to Tenix. It will set new standards in energy efficiency and will be a boutique development.

[finn]

A couple of little boutique residential developments (4 storeys) along the Pacific Highway in North Sydney:

Veronese: 166 Pacific Highway

http://img.domain.com.au/img/3838/2003703825_1_FS.JPG


Eden Apartments: 323 Pacific Highway

http://img.domain.com.au/img/4272/2003939117_1_FS.JPG


And Aquarelle in Milsons Point:

http://www.realestate.com.au/objects/props/9328/1989328bl1061519890.jpg

Here at 8 Glen Street is this building (green/grey building in centre of pic) which looks to be about 13/14 storeys - I have seen it under construction from the train when going through Milson's Point station, and think it is a refurb of an old office building:

http://img.domain.com.au/img/4537/2004155282_1_FS.JPG

And here's a development called Milson's Landing, also on Glen Street, which looks to be maybe 9/10 storeys:

http://img.domain.com.au/img/0/27915_2_FS.JPG

[CULWULLA]

fabian quote- {Unfortuantely, I have nothing new in relation to the following MAJOR developments proposed which include

*100 Pacific Highway (office Tower) - The Caltex is still open and trading
*Norberry Terrace - will be the tallest in North Sydney in terms of RL height & Second tallest overall
*North Sydney Station upgrade }

fab, the RL for norberry tr will be approx 185m or 115m above ground. Nothing will come near the RL height of 197m for North Point.

[Fabian]

The traffic cam for the Warringah Freeway has a great view of Harbour Watch apartments which are under construction

And this is "live". Click "Save picture as for captions.

WARNING: This camera is controlled by the traffic management guys, so it may not at times point at the apartments.

http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/trafficreports/cameras/camera_images/016.jpg

[hornetfig]

:tongue2: they can rotate the thing, you know. I see the Harbour Tunnel toll gates and nothing much else atm...

[Fabian]

Here's a pic I was able to grab of Harbourwatch apartments today

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid99/pa22c76196f1483975307651b93dc5730/f9f3c9db.jpg

[spazpecker]

Here's a promising update from thehttp://www.m2.net.au site > > >

North Sydney Council’s new LEP has finally been finally gazetted, which should give the ‘future supply’ of office space in North Sydney a considerable boost. It has allowed the processing of a number of development applications (some of which have been before council for a considerable period), and the setting of an upper limit of an additional 250,000m² of office floor space as a target for the North Sydney CBD.

Some of the recent DA applications include:
1. Mirvac’s plans for a 30,000m² re-development
of Norberry Terrace at the corner of the Pacific
Highway and Berry Street.

2. Tenix’s 23,400m² building at 100 Arthur Street. ( majority pre-leased )

3. Leighton Properties’ 21,000m² at 100 Pacific
Highway (already fully lpre-eased to AGL and Leighton administation ).

4. ING Office Funds 4,900m² extension of the
Campus MLC building complex between Miller
and Denison Streets, and

5. A 4,000m² extension of the Victoria Cross
building at 60 Miller Street by owner Deutsche
Office Trust.

6. Not before council yet, but mooted, is a mixed
commercial and strata-titled hotel development for the
ex-Telstra site at 18-40 Mount Street, which was reported
to have been acquired by the Essington Group.
__________________________________________________

[spazpecker]

Also, there's a render of Mirvac's Sharp tower residential conversion on Lavender St Milsons Pt in todays AFR ( 16.1.04).
Looks cool !

[Fabian]

That reminds me of the Samsung building. It is also supposed to be converted into apartments too but I think it will remain office in the short term particularly with an uncertain property market

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid65/p8c245b2a13e273d08e8e899dee461d46/fbea5dcf.jpg

And a pic of the Sharp building - for some reason I like it's greeny chocolate block design.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid65/p3ceaddff1d232d8c5be5c850fb1bcba2/fbea5e41.jpg

[Fabian]

Here's a rendering of the scraper proposed for 100 Pacific Highway. This has been posted a few times, but these have been thumbnail size. It looks quite nice especially with it's sloping roof.

http://msakaguchi.hp.infoseek.co.jp/image/works/100Pacific/PacificHwy.jpg

Some 3D models of the tower.

http://msakaguchi.hp.infoseek.co.jp/image/works/100Pacific/Facade-EL.jpg

Podium

http://msakaguchi.hp.infoseek.co.jp/image/works/100Pacific/Podium.jpg

[Sydguy1]

Are Tenix moving into a building that is already built.Or are they the Anchor tenant for a new scraper to be built.

Who is the the developer/builder and when does it start Contruction any renderings?

[CULWULLA]

Optus will be moving out soon from Optus Plaza and this will leave North Sydney with 70,000sqm of office space. Thus there wont be much office space being built in next few years!
100 pac hwy already pre-leased?? wow go Leightons!
when will this one start?

[Sydguy1]

Optus going to Rhodes Business park?

And I would be most greatful if someone can as my Tenix question because I thought Tenix was already at 100 Arthur street:?

[Fabian]

Tenix are going to build a new scraper on the current site they occupy, which is 100 Arthur St.:) I think they might be adding 98 Arthur St to the site.

[Muse]

Ah! A thread on North Sydney shit. Great!!

Hope they start the Tenix building soon. (First time I've seen the renders :) ). Looks like it will fit into North Sydney only too well. I Remember checking out the site about 1 1/2 years ago :( with no work in sight.

[Sydguy1]

No No Muse I believe that rendering above is of 100 Pacific hwy which is AGL and Leighton HQs.

I was wanna see renderings of 100 Arthur street which is Tenix's New HQ.

So do Fabian or anyone else know of a website or of any renderings

And can we move this out of this Issues section into the mioan Sydney board maybe it well get better coverage over there:guns1: :D Please

[Muse]

Originally posted by Sydguy1
And can we move this out of this Issues section into the mioan Sydney board maybe it well get better coverage over there:guns1: :D Please Yes. I agree!

Considering we have everything from Cronulla to Campbelltown in the main section.

[Fabian]

Another scraper for North Sydney. A 11 level mixed use tower with 5 commercial levels and 22 apartments has been approved by North Sydney Council for 112 -116 Pacific Highway.:)

Also the Hyundai signage atop Northpoint is set to go as well.

[Fabian]

Here is a construction pic I took of 8 Glen St from the harbour. There is another level or two to go before topping out.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid112/p103365e52e3c9d4e2266621f8b78f49b/f8fe522e.jpg

[Fabian]

I'm delighted with the look of the Konica building and even more delighted that Novell is getting a spruce up !
Now.......what about the bloody SAP building ( that huge slab in the northern end of the CBD).......:bash:

Good news. It's being painted white. It should look much better.

Also it looks like Novell House is being painted white. Part of the southern side on the top floor looked white.

I've noticed that there is a trend going on. The Westfield Complex at Bondi Junction has the same thing being done to theirs, being painted white. Why are older towers getting white paint jobs? What is so good about white?

[Fabian]

I'm delighted with the look of the Konica building and even more delighted that Novell is getting a spruce up !
Now.......what about the bloody SAP building ( that huge slab in the northern end of the CBD).......:bash:

Good news. It's being painted white. It should look much better.

Also it looks like Novell House is being painted white. Part of the southern side on the top floor looked white.

I've noticed that there is a trend going on. The Westfield Complex at Bondi Junction has the same thing being done to theirs, being painted white. Why are older towers getting white paint jobs? What is so good about white?

[Sydguy1]

White is cheap thats why.

[Muse]

Financial Review, Thrus 29/04/04

Tenix goes ahead with development by Kathryn House

Defence and technology contractor Tenix has made what many consider a bold decision - it will press ahead with a $120 million office development in North Sydney with no tenants in tow.

The company intends to occupy about 3000 sq m in the new building but will need to fill another 21000 sq m in what remains one of the toughest leasing markets in the country.

yadda, yadda...

"With construction expected for completion in 2007, 100 Arthur St will meet renewed demand for commercial office space and lead the way for other office developments in North Sydney."

[Italo-Australian]

What is going to happen to the old Tenix Building?

[CULWULLA]

so 100 Arthur st is 80m/20storeys tall? this is the info i put on ss.com last year.anyone got a render?

[Muse]

Sorry, in regard to the article, it didn't mention the old Tenix building nor did it have a render. It does talk of the Optus and possible AGL vacancies. The rest was how it would be marketed :okay:

It does mention a 21-level building to be constructed though :)

[climbing_crane]

The SAP building isn't plain white, it is blue and white and is look quite good. The job they did on Konica was brilliant.

[Vitriol]

White is cheap thats why.

LOL, how true!

[Fabian]

The SAP building isn't plain white, it is blue and white and is look quite good. The job they did on Konica was brilliant.

It's a navy blue in parts but could even be purple. I noticed on the northern side that there are patches of it which are not spread consistently like on the southern side ie below the windows.

And here's a shot of the Current Tenix House. It's nothing exciting

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid116/p98910552e0d7e8d245e529cc5b75a180/f8ad0bd1.jpg

[Fabian]

I read a report done by Jones Lang Lasalle about the North Sydney office market and they have predicted that the exit of Optus would lead to projects such Norberry Terrace being postponed but as demand for A grade space is quite strong at the moment, it would be filled quite quickly as older office stock is withdrawn. However a major tower being built would be good for competition to grab tenants. Strong Employment growth is predicted for 2007-08 which is likely to push demand for further space

In a worst case scenario, the vacancy rate is predicted to reach only 8 percent by 2008.

Here is a link to view the report.

http://www.joneslanglasalle.com.au/Research/Whitepapers/2004/North%20Sydney%20%96%20Building%20For%20the%20Future.pdf

[CULWULLA]

fabian, i told you this waaaay back in march!!

Optus will be moving out soon from Optus Plaza and this will leave North Sydney with 70,000sqm of office space. Thus there wont be much office space being built in next few years!
100 pac hwy already pre-leased?? wow go Leightons!
when will this one start?

[Fabian]

Chris, I have decided to answer your question made in the "Sydney Height Map" thread

any chance in north sydney raising the height limits in the future to allow for future office accomodation growth in the central area of sydney? though they are a different city council arn't they?

I don't think it is going to be increased in the short term from the RL height limit of 197 metres, the height of Northpoint which is tallest in North Sydney. Maybe in the longer term they will be prepared to consider 500footers in the future which I believe they can support.

Development has been restricted in North Sydney as the council has doubts over the ability of infrastructure especially transport at present to cope with a huge working population. When the railway station is fully upgraded by decades end along with related improvements, it should mean more development and the council will be more flexible. Some proposals at present are dependent on the station upgrade going ahead and being done ASAP.

North Sydney is a separate council area as well.

[CULWULLA]

North Sydneys height limit is 120m NOt 197mRL. I talked to a NSy planner last year and the height limit is now enforced at 120m.also the Rl has to keep well below the current two tallest, Rl186m and Rl197m.the height limit wont be lifted anytime soon. maybe 50 years or so.

[Fabian]

Another apartment conversion is slated for Milsons Point. The D/A for a 50 unit apartment complex is up for sale at 30 Alfred Street along with the site, which currently houses an office building. The architects of the apartment complex are Bligh Voller Nield.

http://www.propertylook.com.au/listings/CBRE/CBRE_53/300/CBRE_53_31869_19466.jpg

http://www.propertylook.com.au/listings/CBRE/CBRE_53/300/CBRE_53_31869_19480.jpg

[Muse]

:| pffft! I thought it was gunna be the new Tenix render. :(

[Fabian]

The Kirribilli Club at Milsons Point is set to be redeveloped with a seven storey tower to replace the existing club. 20 apartments and 86 car parking spaces are to be built including a new clubhouse. It will be a joint venture between the club, Multiplex and Thrakal. Sounds good. :)

[CULWULLA]

http://img52.photobucket.com/albums/v158/culwulla/NORTHSYDNEYSKYLINE.jpg

[Fabian]

Cul, just one correction to the diagram. The corebox on Beau Monde is now as high as 141 Walker Street.

[CULWULLA]

i was just going off you saying its up to lev28 which is RL 146m.

[CULWULLA]

at 80m it sure will dominate this view! its Rl would be 60m, thus 140mRl.
ill edit it in my pano to show impact. http://www.dvdtech.com.au/contact/images/north_sydney.jpg


ill also add in 100 pac Hwy. thats even higher at Rl70m +80m = RL150m

it would rise infront of NCR at far left of photo.

http://www.pierluigisurace.it/imagerie/images/aatw/DOT_Australia_III_Sydney_North_Sydney_1.jpg

[CULWULLA]

heres an updated skyline
ive added the 3 office towers-
115m high Nornerry terrace, the 80m 100 pac Hwy and 80m 100 Arthur st
it really improves the skyline.

http://img52.photobucket.com/albums/v158/culwulla/NORTHSYDNEYSKYLINE2.jpg

[CULWULLA]

for those who are interested, im currently putting the 100 or so skyscrapers for north sydney into zones for ss.com.
the zones are>
CBD
Mc McMahons Point
Milsons point
Cremorne
Neutral Bay
Kirribilli
this should be easier to located scrapers.
Im also about to tackle the Sydney zones. that should take a few weeks.lol
(have to do each bldg one at a time).

[Fabian]

Good news for the office market within the North Sydney CBD. According to the property council of Australia, The vacancy rate fell 0.8 % from 12.4% to 11.6 %. Net Absorportion increased from 1867sq/m to 7276sq/m. This was despite vacancy rates increasing across the bridge in the Sydney CBD. It's also been reported that only 10 000sq/m will enter the market this year.

[Muse]

That's good news Fabian. Any drop in office vacany rates especially in North Sydney, regardless how small the % may be.

100 Pacific Hwy already has pre-commitments and the new 21-storey Tenix scraper will eventually be occupied by Tenix itself, but not all of the floors.

Let's also not forget the commercial 7 level base of Beaumonde Tower:

_____http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379beaumonderender1.jpg__http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379beaumonderender2.jpg


***Muse (and I'm sure other forumers) wait in anticipation for the new Tenix Tower render***

[Fabian]

And adding onto the good news with the North Sydney office market is that even with the departure of Optus from North Sydney, there should be no problem filling the vacant space in Optus Tower. Optus Tower as we know offers some of the most spectular views of the harbour and city and anaylists believe that this will be the factor that will attract tenants into the tower. It was also reported that some CBD businesses are seeking to relocate to North Sydney as well particularly from the NW corner of the Sydney CBD.

Two other things I noticed as I passed through North Sydney on the freeway on Tuesday

1. After three years, the final reminder of the fallen telco onetel is disappearing with it's signage being removed after three years.
2. Scaffholding has started appearing on the tower next to the Tenix Building and windows have been removed. It might have to do with the Tenix development but I'm not sure about it.

[Maxtor]

Its starting to make an impact on the skyline. The other good thing is that much demolition has happened on the 100 Pacific Hwy site. Soon we'll see some piling activity here :)

[Muse]

BTW Any more news on the proposed Norberry Terrace CULWULLA?

At 114m it would be the 4th tallest in North Sydney after Northpoint, Optus Plaza and Beau Monde Apartments. It would be 1m lower than Beau Monde lol.

[CULWULLA]

havent heard anything. i might have to enquire at council.

[rob_]

i really that that black walled building @ north sydney, near the old mcdonalds. ugly!

[Muse]

I really that that black walled building @ North Sydney, near the old Mcdonalds. Ugly!You might mean the MLC Building on Miller St: MLC Building (http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=108012)

[Oriolus]

Anyone noticed a change in Novell House. Townsville based company Storm Financial have bought signage rights to the building - I'm not sure if that means naming rights as well though??

A pic by Fabian
http://www.emporis.com/en/il/im/?id=314945

mmmmm...... chocolate

[Muse]

Our keen sharp-eyed gazmo made a thread on it last month: gazmo cooks up a storm (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=180363)

[Reality Check]

First time poster, long time reader...you know how it goes.

We received a development proposal application the other day for a new residential/commercial building at 12-16 Berry Street, North Sydney. The plan is for a building that is 16 stories high.

I have a diagram of the building, but no scanner, so I cannot show it to you.

I am curious about the sort of time frames involved in this type of building being constructed, as it would be a view blocker? We rent, so we don't really care either way.

I know there is a process that companies usually go through in order to get approval and then construction, but generally what is the minimum amount of time this usually takes - if anyone knows?

Thanks.

[Blue_Copper]

fax your diagram to 0423532050 and ill post it for you

[Reality Check]

I have a scanner at work, so I'll scan it there. Thanks anyway.

[Muse]

Ah cool, Reality Check (great screen name :okay: ). I was going to go over to North Sydney today to see I could find the flyer @ council offices.

As far as your question goes, could be anyone's guess. If it's a 16-storey tower with a smallish footprint and not-so-deep foundations, then 1 ~ 1 1/2 years would be ample, all going smoothly of course.

[drnilescrane]

55 Lavender is getting scafolding as we speak.

[CULWULLA]

was getting info from Westpoint yesterday for there new perth/Seidler twin towers and the guy mentioned Westpoint are planning a big hotel for north Sydney!!
sounds intresting

[CULWULLA]

Azure is complete?
http://img.domain.com.au/img/4272/2004781777_1_PL.JPG?mod=050127-111013


Aquarelle is nearly done.its 10storeys and quilfies for ss.com.so i just added it.

http://img.domain.com.au/img/4245/2004045841_2_FS.JPG?mod=050411-113132

[Blue_Copper]

nice little building

[CULWULLA]

i noticed yesterday while going past Milsons point railway station that in the distance on Falcon Street, Neutral Bay, there is a large crane now very visable on skyline! its near a highrise. not sure what its for? rwally need to walk up the site and check it out. does anyone else know anything?

[Tony P]

i noticed yesterday while going past Milsons point railway station that in the distance on Falcon Street, Neutral Bay, there is a large crane now very visable on skyline! its near a highrise. not sure what its for? rwally need to walk up the site and check it out. does anyone else know anything?

It's associated with the roadworks that is happening on Falcon Street/Warringah Expressway. They're building an on/off ramp from Warringah expressway to let traffic from Mosman area go straight up onto the Warringah Expressway to Chatswood (and vice versa). Currently all the Mosman to Chatswood (and vice versa) traffic has to go to the Pacific Highway via Crows Nest, meaning 10-20 sets of lights or so.

[Muse]

Called into North Sydney council offices @ 200 Miller St yesterday and they have a lot of models of scrapers (low to mid-risers) that are proposed for North Sydney and its surrounds.

The showcases include the models for 12-16 Berry St, a 31-storey hotel proposal @ 16 Mount St and a few others. If all goes well, the Berry & Mount St scrapers will eventually extend North Sydney's skyline even further west than 100 Pacific Hwy!!

Photos of the models are allowed to be taken, so get in there!!

I was given photocopies of the mixed use 16-storey proposal for 12-16 Berry St that Reality Check mentions on the previous page.

The bottom 4 floors will be commercial and the upper 12, residential. It's still in for DA Stage 1 approval.

Here is the render and 2 elevations that I was given.

Notice the spire:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/379berrrysttower1.JPG

East elevation with RL heights:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/379berrysttower2.JPG

South elevation:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/379berrysttower3.JPG


16 Mount St will involve demolition of an existing building, retention of a heritage building, erection of the 31 level hotel, restaurant and office use plus 3 levels of basement parking for 130 cars.

(Hopefully I will be getting a render of 16 Mount St in about a fortnight's time from the developer) The architects are Kann Finch but no render on theri website yet.

[Fabian]

i noticed yesterday while going past Milsons point railway station that in the distance on Falcon Street, Neutral Bay, there is a large crane now very visable on skyline! its near a highrise. not sure what its for? rwally need to walk up the site and check it out. does anyone else know anything?

The crane is to do with the construction of the Falcon Street on and offramps for the Warringah Freeway.

[CULWULLA]

thanks. i thouht it might of been road crane.
bummer.

[Muse]

What about the application in for a 31-level hotel for DA 1 approval? - also the model on display.

[SinCity]

Good. North Sydney needs more scrapers otherwise it will stagnate.

[papervagina]

http://smh.com.au/articles/2005/06/21/1119250965505.html

Masterplan to transform North Sydney
By Bonnie Malkin, Urban Affairs Reporter
June 21, 2005 - 11:55AM

The face of North Sydney CBD is to be changed in an attempt to make the city centre more people friendly.

North Sydney Council has released a masterplan that will transform Miller Street and Victoria Cross.

The $3 million plan involves widening footpaths on Miller Street, reducing the street to one lane of traffic in each direction and creating a public plaza at Victoria Cross.

The plan also proposes to extend outdoor dining areas near Tower Square and refurbish the entrances of Greenwood Plaza and North Sydney Station.

North Sydney Mayor Genia McCaffery said the plan would create a "new heart" for the city.

"While there have been plenty of very positive aspects of how the CBD has developed over time, there is a need for a central heart and meeting place."

The plan is part of North Sydney Council's $20 million public domain strategy and will be on public exhibition until July 14.

This is desparately needed... North Sydney is a ghost town on weekends and after about 6:30 PM weekdays. The station needs more than having its entrance upgraded, though - it just doesn't cope when two trains arrive at once during peak times.

[sirhc8]

There was provision in the last state budget for looking into an upgrade of North Sydney station. Although, this has been on the cards for some time now.

[James Saito]

I just can't believe the shops are all closed in North Sydney on Sunday. It's ridiculous.

[papervagina]

Another article...

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/touch-of-the-yarra-comes-to-sydney/2005/06/21/1119321738121.html

Touch of the Yarra comes to Sydney
By Bonnie Malkin Urban Affairs Reporter
June 22, 2005

The heart of North Sydney could be turned into a mini-Melbourne under council plans to revamp the city centre to lure back businesses and visitors.

The Mayor of North Sydney, Genia McCaffery, said Melbourne's vibrant laneways could hold the key rejuvenation of the business district, which has one of the highest office vacancy rates in the country.

"Melbourne has really beautiful laneways with lots of little bars and it's something that makes Melbourne so special. Sydney doesn't have that," she said. "We really want to activate our laneways and reclaim them for the public.

"We would have to talk to the State Government, but we would like to be able to have cafe-bars in the laneways; places that are pleasant for people to be in."

The proposal to redevelop North Sydney's laneways comes after the council made public a $3 million plan to transform the intersection of Miller Street, Mount Street and the Pacific Highway, known as Victoria Cross, into a public plaza.

Under the plan, footpaths would be widened on both sides of Miller Street, reducing the street to one lane of traffic in each direction.

Native trees would be planted along Miller Street, the entrances to North Sydney station and Greenwood Plaza would be refurbished and outdoor dining areas near Tower Square would be extended.

Traffic flows in the area would change. To improve pedestrian access to the area, traffic would be diverted away from the Victoria Cross intersection, and right-hand turns from the Pacific Highway into Miller Street and left-hand turns from the highway onto Blue Street would be banned.

The release of the plan is the first stage of a 10-year, $20 million North Sydney public domain strategy. It includes advertising to promote the area and creating midweek and weekend activities to bring people into the area after working hours.

Cr McCaffery said the plan would breathe life into the district. "We want to make the area safer for pedestrians and create a space where people want to stop and enjoy, rather than driving through."

If the council approves the plan, work on Miller Street would start immediately, she said.

The NSW executive director of the Property Council, Ken Morrison, welcomed the proposal. "It is a very important step for North Sydney and it is a very positive that council is taking a proactive approach to the CBD. North Sydney CBD is our second largest employment location and it's No.6 around Australia, so it is massively important when you look at employment.

The plan is on display from tomorrow until July 14.

CAMPAIGN FOR SYDNEY

- North Sydney is vital for the city's economy as the second biggest business district in the state.

- Encouraging more workers into centres with good transport links, such as North Sydney, reduces traffic and pollution.

- The harbour rail tunnel and the station planned for North Sydney will increase the rail system's capacity.

Where are the laneways in North Sydney? There are only about two I can think of.

[CULWULLA]

What about the application in for a 31-level hotel for DA 1 approval? - also the model on display.
oh thanks, i must of scrolled past quick.lol
looks good. ive measured height of 16storey from the plans.
height to roof-45.6m/150ft
height to blade-52m
height to spire-55m
Rl at grd-84.5m
RL at spire-139.5m
----------
16 Mount st sounds good.

[Muse]

Bring on 2008!!

From the Fin Rev, Weds 22/06/05:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379northsydneyarticle1.JPG

[zulu69]

Ok guys i have recieved a juicy little development proposal for North Sydney. Its at 136-138 Walker St and its 36 levels (you read right!) of mixed commercial/residential with basement parking for 110 vehicles. Its designed by FPA Architets. Here is the design!!! Finally i can provide something useful to the forum :)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y286/kakamesh/nthsydt.jpg

[James Saito]

Wow! It looks like a mini world tower. Nice addition to NorthSydney!

[CULWULLA]

zulu, yet didnt manage to grab the RL;s? FPA? what does that stand for?

[zulu69]

Nope i scanned pretty much scanned the back page the letter (at around 80% size) i recieved and the scale and writing is illegible (as the scan can show). As you can see tho its 36 levels so something around Beau monde height is a fair guess, but in saying that i think it would be at least 10m taller as the diagram shows the street is on a steep incline.

I will try to find out more on it and get back to you guys. The letter does state that it can be viewed at the Customer Service Centre, Council Chambers 200 miller st North Syd.
Btw this is proposed not approved...

[CULWULLA]

^im speaking to the planner that is dealing with its application today so ill ask him height. i think its approx 110m-120m. not sure where this is? im interested in its RL, beacuse this is how it will show on skyline.

[CULWULLA]

got some info from NS planner.
height of 138 Walker st- 117m (RL178m) which is slightly higher then beaumonde.
it wont be getting approval due to being in a 5storey height zone,lol
also the 29storey Hotel at 16 Mount st will be 100m tall and looks like getting approved.

[CULWULLA]

unusual angle from Neutral bay
http://www.realestate.com.au/objects/props/5434/102495434ml1120227003.jpg

[Muse]

It's amazing how many dwellings are down in that valley. Sydney is just full of these hidden surprises.

[papervagina]

I was looking at the web site of Smart Design Studio (http://www.smartdesignstudio.com/) and came across these pictures of 'Walker Street Apartmments'; does anyone know anything about the building? I thought it may have been the DA zulu69 posted, but it's a different architect and, I think, further up Walker Street. I really dig it.

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k160/papervagina/WalkerStreet.jpg

[CULWULLA]

yeah, looks good. i wonder if it is still "active" or a past proposal? looks about 90m.

[Fabian]

It's recent - part of Beau Monde appears in the skyline render :)

It's different to Zulu's drawings but looks just as good. Good setbacks on the upper floors & I love overhang.

[Fabian]

I was looking at the web site of Smart Design Studio (http://www.smartdesignstudio.com/) and came across these pictures of 'Walker Street Apartmments'; does anyone know anything about the building? I thought it may have been the DA zulu69 posted, but it's a different architect and, I think, further up Walker Street. I really dig it.

http://www.users.on.net/~ihatescarves/ss/WalkerStreet.jpg

I found out today at the North Sydney Council Offices that it is separate to Zulu's tower.

The tower that zulu posted was for 136-140 Walker St, whilst papervaginas is for the site next door, 144-150 Walker Street.

I've seen models of both towers plus for a couple of others (including the 30 storey hotel proposal for Mount St) which I'll post later

[Fabian]

The model photos as promised

16-40 Mount St - This tower combined with 100 Pacific Highway will ensure the formation of a wall of skyscrapers along the Pacific Highway

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/5514/1640mountst2small2lf.jpg

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/9894/1640mountstsmall3qs.jpg

136-140 Walker St (Zulu's tower)

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/9395/136140walkerstsmall6tu.jpg

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2618/136140walkerstiismall2uv.jpg

144-150 Walker St (papervaginas tower)

You'lll notice some building envelopes here as well suggesting that there is even more development on the cards for this part of North Sydney

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/9340/144150walkerstiismall9lp.jpg

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/4183/144150walkerstsmall1en.jpg

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/3420/144walkerstiiismall0qb.jpg

[CULWULLA]

wow, im loosing count of all these new towers. im impressed with there designs.

this 30storey tower is the hotel muse told us about.
ive been told its 100m high. great location
fabian- i would love to use this photo for emporis.

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/9894/1640mountstsmall3qs.jpg

[Fabian]

fabian- i would love to use this photo for emporis.

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/9894/1640mountstsmall3qs.jpg

I'll upload the photo's for you. i have higher res photos which they are looking for.

[Aussie Steve]

WOW Great to see more action in NS. Can't wait to see it all in a few weeks time.

[James Saito]

16-40 Mount St look awesome! Is it an office tower?

[CULWULLA]

^ its a hotel.

[SinCity]

Fuck me dead :eek:

At least 3 new towers for North Sydney. Thats great. Its been ages since we've seen a number of highrise proposals at the same time.

[gazmo]

Wow - I'm working at 12 Mount St tomorrow (was there today too), I'll take a pic of the site.

The lower part of this building is current car park and the taller part will replace what's currently a very scruffy (or even vacant) Telephone exchange.

[drnilescrane]

Wow - I'm working at 12 Mount St tomorrow (was there today too), I'll take a pic of the site.

The lower part of this building is current car park and the taller part will replace what's currently a very scruffy (or even vacant) Telephone exchange.
Part of which was built in 1930... Where will the Telephone Exchange be relocated? The site is also quite tall for what is a very low area of NS... It's behind the Great Wall of Miller St.

BTW I go past this site every day on my way to Starbucks after telling a dimwit member of staff how to attach a file in Outlook Web Access.... For the 50th TIME! Needed to vent...

[gazmo]

There's better coffee than Starbuck's up the road you know.

Part of which was built in 1930... Where will the Telephone Exchange be relocated? The site is also quite tall for what is a very low area of NS... It's behind the Great Wall of Miller St.

BTW I go past this site every day on my way to Starbucks after telling a dimwit member of staff how to attach a file in Outlook Web Access.... For the 50th TIME! Needed to vent...

[drnilescrane]

There's better coffee than Starbuck's up the road you know.
Yeah, but I know the people who work there and no other store makes a mean Venti Doubble Choc Cream Based Frappachino with Whipped Cream on top.

[gazmo]

OMG :eek2:

Just don't show your face in Leichhardt - Okay. :runaway:

Yeah, but I know the people who work there and no other
store makes a mean Venti Doubble Choc Cream Based Frappachino with Whipped Cream on top.

[CULWULLA]

with a twist of lemon.

[drnilescrane]

I forgot the Cherry on top.

In all seriousness, is it wrong to like a Personalised Chocolate Frappe?

[TotallyParanoid]

I walked past the site at Mount Street on the weekend - feel for the nuns, they will be loosing their sunlight Im sure. Perhaps they should pray.

I was talking to a town planner the other day about my property in Edward Street (just around the corner) and he was saying before I lodge my DA i should speak to some environmental lawyers. Im wanting to convert my property into a strata (its a duplex but on one title).

[drnilescrane]

They are really pushing the boundary to the limit - there is little room left due to the School and Convent creating a barrier, not to mention William Street can't handle a large building due to it's size.

[Muse]

The 2 proposals and their current sites...

12-16 Berry St:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/379berrrysttower1.JPG

Its site:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/37912_16berryst.JPG


12 Mount St hotel proposal. Pic by Fabian:

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/9894/1640mountstsmall3qs.jpg

Its site:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/500/37916mountst.JPG

[CULWULLA]

"storey" in todays fin rev about how Australand are going to purchase the 15 level Tower building in Milsons point to convert to apartments.The 63m tower was built in 1973 and is just around cnr from Latitudes reconstruction.

http://img109.imageshack.us/img109/5606/towermilsons9bf.jpg

[Trances]

more apartments what a suprise

[no name]

On the TIDC site they have something on the North Sydney station upgrade.
http://raillink.nsw.gov.au/Documents/299_NSSREF.pdf

[Muse]

A new 11/12 level apartment block for St Leos (there's no northen subs. development thread, so here is appropriate I guess).

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/37945ChandosSta.JPG

The mundane left-over currently on-site.

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/37945ChandosStb-med.JPG

[CULWULLA]

thanks muse

[Fabian]

The Tower building along with the Colonaides has to be my favourite scrapers in the Milsons Point area. I hope they dont do too much to the existing shape of the building along with keeping the caged pyramid and flagpole atop the building. Without it i'd be bland.

[zulu69]

New DA lodge. 3-11 Ward St. They want to demolish the existing buildings and erect a mixed building. 3644m2 of office and 67 res units.
Doesn't look tall but nice design. Don't have a scanner anymore so can't show the plans. It is on public display tho.

[Muse]

Makes mention of a possible 13-storey accommodation tower. That would make it a reasonable height for that part of Chatty, as it's all pretty low-rise around there, stretching the skyline just a tad.

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/504/379chatsarticleFinRev09Mar06.JPG

[CULWULLA]

growing skyline from prymont today

new 90m 100pachwy can be seen far left and new 80m Latitude on lav at far right
http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/5333/nthsydmarch20062sa.jpg

[Muse]

Even Blues Point Tower gets into the picture.

Great shot. Certainly does justice to Sydney's 2nd skyline (some would argue Chatswood will be).

Even though I personally like the way 100 Pacific Hwy is turning out, I had imagined @ first it would appear taller than what it eventually has. Hopefully the approved 12 Mount St 30-storey hotel if it goes ahead, will assist in giving the North Sydney skyline a boost, again on its western side.

I'm going to go to North Sydney Council next week on an info gathering mission. I'll also take the cammy with me to get shots (which we're allowed to do) of any models that are currently on display.

[CULWULLA]

scanned from todays fin rev.
new approved 20storey mised use tower for 3-11 ward st
architect- cox richardson
65 units

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/9707/311wardstnsyd7yg.jpg

[Tony P]

^^ Oh for #$^*'s sake, finally something I really like in suburban Sydney!

Hope it stays true to the render, grainy or not! :)

[Muse]

^^ Oh for #$^*'s sake, finally something I really like in suburban Sydney!

Hope it stays true to the render, grainy or not! :)I've never considered the eastern side of North Sydney as "suburban". Urban perhaps.

BTW Here is @ 22 page PDF link to the development, with the renders, landscaping, views, maps & info etc etc etc @ 3-11 Ward Street (http://www.propertylook.com.au/attachments/CBRE/CBRE_53/55556/View%20Analysis%20Site%20Context%20and%20Montages.pdf)

...

[Muse]

12 Mount St hotel proposal. Pic by Fabian:

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/9894/1640mountstsmall3qs.jpg

^^ In regard to this 31-level hotel, I spoke with the architects In Perth yesterday, Greg Rowe & Assoc. and was told that because the developers, North Sydney Developments & the ill-fated Westpoint will no longer develop the site, new developers are being sought.

Its status is still proposed, but I was also told approval shouldn't be far away, especially when the new developers are found.

...

[CULWULLA]

thanks for that link muse. nice views and plans of project.
due to its location,i dont think you will see it on skyline? its only 60m tall but located 75m above sea.l.
cheero

[Muse]

A proposed 25-level commercial building @ 157 Walker St, North Sydney.

Model:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379157WalkerSt_ModelA.JPG

Renders:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379157WalkerStreet_RenderAA.JPG____http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379157WalkerStreet_RenderBB.JPG

....and the 13-level building that is currently @ 157 Walker:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379157WalkerSt_NorthSydney.JPG


2 proposed for St Leonards...

Firstly, 32 Atchison Street, with ground floor retail and 105 residential units. 13-levels above ground.

Models:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/37932AtchisonStreet_ModelB.JPG

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/37932AtchisonStreet_ModelC.JPG

...and

1-11 Atchison Street. Mixed-use building @ 12-levels above ground with roof plant rooms/LMR:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/37911AtchisonStreetModelA.JPG

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/37911AtchisonStreet_s_elevations-med.JPG

[papervagina]

It's good to see a few residential proposals for North Sydney - it could really do with more people to liven it up a bit outside office hours.

[CULWULLA]

thanks for photos & info muse.

nice skyline pic by CHRISTARANT
latitude is one with crane.
http://img154.imageshack.us/img154/1351/northsydneybyspaz6wr.jpg

[Muse]

Ad in last Thurday's Fin Rev for the sale of "DA Approved Site. 3-11 Ward St, North Sydney". It mentions the 20-storey mixed-use project, designed by Cox Richardson that includes 65 apartments and 2925sqm of commercial suites.

From propertylook.com.au/55556 (http://www.propertylook.com.au/listing/default.asp?lk=55556)

Worst.render.evah!!

http://www.propertylook.com.au/listings/CBRE/CBRE_53/300/CBRE_53_55556_60183.jpg


Don't even know what the DA approved building really looks like but I prefer they keep these fabulous 3 old apartment blocks on the site anyway. Yoink down the bloody ugly carpark station behind them instead. I really don't understand :no:

http://www.propertylook.com.au/listings/CBRE/CBRE_53/300/CBRE_53_55556_60177.jpg_http://www.propertylook.com.au/listings/CBRE/CBRE_53/300/CBRE_53_55556_60178.jpg_http://www.propertylook.com.au/listings/CBRE/CBRE_53/300/CBRE_53_55556_60180.jpg


http://www.propertylook.com.au/listings/CBRE/CBRE_53/300/CBRE_53_55556_60176.jpg__http://www.propertylook.com.au/listings/CBRE/CBRE_53/300/CBRE_53_55556_60179.jpg

...

[papervagina]

Don't even know what the DA approved building really looks like but I prefer they keep these fabulous 3 old apartment blocks on the site anyway. Yoink down the bloody ugly carpark station behind them instead. I really don't understand :no:

Isn't it the same building you posted a link for about a month ago?

[Muse]

Yeah, there's the longer PDF link posted on the previous page. Just had a look again and saw the renders (including a larger version of the small one I posted above, and still not the best). So there you go. Regardless, I had no idea about the 3 buildings that may go until I opened the propertylook link earlier this morning.

...

[SinCity]

The new proposals look great. North Sydney is slowly coming out of its development standstill ...

[papervagina]

This morning noticed a new crane has been put up behind the BenQ building in Milsons Point; anyone know what that might be for? It looked to be a little too far from Lattitude to be related to that.

[Muse]

Unless someone knows, I'm also going that way today with my cammy. I'll check it out.

[Muse]

This morning noticed a new crane has been put up behind the BenQ building in Milsons Point; anyone know what that might be for? It looked to be a little too far from Lattitude to be related to that.OK, it's going to be a 7-storey apartment building known as Alchemy and is being financed by Thakral.

Here is a small render:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379AlchemyRender.jpg

The foundations are about 4-5 levels down, and the lodged tower crane for Alchemy....

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379AlchemyFoundations_Crane-med.JPG

...and still waiting for its arm:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379AlchemyCrane.JPG

Signage on gate:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379EdwardsGateSignage.JPG

BTW The Benq Building you mentioned paperpuss:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379BenQ.JPG

[papervagina]

Thanks, Muse. Looks like a nice little building.

[CULWULLA]

skyline may 2006
starting to look impressive!

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/4243/00003170ii.jpg

CBD
http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/2217/00003155mt.jpg

[CULWULLA]

100 pac hwy makes a good back drop.
http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/9781/00004137tl.jpg

[CULWULLA]

anything happening besides innovation place?

[Muse]

Was hoping for the 30-level hotel, but that seems to have been dropped...

This DA is current!

16 Mount Street, North Sydney - Expiry Date 29/01/07
Demolish existing buildings and construct multi-level commercial building with basement parking, Urbis JHD Pty Ltd, DA 660/06

(from North Sydney Council website)

I have tracked down the DA documentation from the council's MasterView system - check this out!

http://masterview.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/Cache/0032D490.001.pdf
Still being reviewed by North Sydney Council & may be altered somewhat:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/Mount_St_Render.jpg

[CULWULLA]

its very quiet in nth sy atm. after inno place is complete, there will be tumble weeds..

[Muse]

Does the area ever have booms? I can't think of it ever having them. It seems to get one new building every 1-2 years in more recent times.

BTW Walked around the 3-11 Ward St site, and still nothing. I couldn't tell if the row of deco apartment buildings on site were still occupied or not.

[CULWULLA]

do you think the evacuation of former Optus centre gave the city so much office space, that a new tower isnt feasible yet?
how much space was in optus centre?

[rob_]

looks like now would be a good time to buy office space in north sydney. time to set up ssc forum sydney head quarters ;p

[Fabian]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/Mount_St_Render.jpg

And this is even better. Never mind about the hotel!!!!
It reminds me of Melbourne's Liberty Towers

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v28/Fabian/Melbourne/PB210254.jpg

[chappo666]

how high would it be?? 146m?? that would be awesome to have nth syds next at 200m or so....WOAH!

[Muse]

^^ RL?...and which building?

Proposed 7-cinema complex for Crows Nest. Includes retail component & carparking for approx. 230 cars. More renders, plans and great WMV flyaround @ Crows Nest Cinemas (http://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/www/html/4683-proposed-cinema--carpark-crows-nest.asp?intSiteID=1)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/Crows_Nest_Cinema_Complex_Night.jpg


Demolition started on site for this Chandos St, St Leos number:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/37945ChandosSta.JPG

[Tony P]

The cinema will be really good for Crows Nest, especially the more 'dead' Alexander and Burlington Streets (with respect to Willoughby Road) that the cinema will face. Certainly shaping up to be the Paddo of the North Shore. Just need a late closing Berkelouws!

Hopefully it's a Dendy's or some other foo-foo cinema.

[James Saito]

Awsome!!@Cinema Complex

I love the independent cinema complex on the street, not included in the Westfield. You can hardly find one nowadays.

[CULWULLA]

north sydney in late feb. looking like a big city these days. tall and dense

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/163/412258820_7d024cf507_o.jpg

[christarrant]

My pics ( taken at weekend) of North Syd / Milsons Pt from Ruby St Mosman !
It looks like Brisbane circa 2002 ! :)

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/8048/close2hq5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/9392/zoom2rw0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[papervagina]

I took a trip to North Sydney today and noticed a crane on the roof of and scaffolding going up around the BenQ building. Anyone one know what that's all about? Residential conversion, perhaps?

Anyway, here's a photo the building (sans construction paraphanalia) taken by Muse last year when I asked about a site behind the BenQ building:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/509/379BenQ.JPG

[papervagina]

Anyone one know what that's all about? Residential conversion, perhaps?

It seems this is the case, although the DA I found is from 2003. I couldn't find any renders (the architects are, or were, Marchese + Partners), but here's the proposed east elevation:

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k160/papervagina/118alfred.gif

[Italo-Australian]

A lot of the retail and office space in the Milsons Point area are being redeveloped into residential. I guess the close proximity to Public Transport and the Harbour is what is attracted the residential market.

We had struggle to find good reasonably priced office space in Alfred St earlier this year, and the real-eastate agencies were saying that residential refurbs are all the craze in the Milsons Point area.

Parking is a problem thiough.

[Italo-Australian]

The Sydney Office of the Institute of Engineers Australia used to be housed in that building. I remember going to a seminar there when I was still at Uni.

[Avatar]

The cinema will be really good for Crows Nest, especially the more 'dead' Alexander and Burlington Streets (with respect to Willoughby Road) that the cinema will face. Certainly shaping up to be the Paddo of the North Shore. Just need a late closing Berkelouws!

Hopefully it's a Dendy's or some other foo-foo cinema.

And decent transport options. St leonards station is too far and the buses suck around there.

[Fabian]

The Sydney Office of the Institute of Engineers Australia used to be housed in that building. I remember going to a seminar there when I was still at Uni.

I went there for a HSC History seminar back in 2003. The auditorium was very small. I hope the keep the auditorium if its redeveloped, with an upgrade to boot.

[papervagina]

I hope the keep the auditorium if its redeveloped, with an upgrade to boot.

In the DA that I saw it said the auditorium was going to be demolished and replaced with retail on the ground floor and one or two levels of apartments above.

[Coneslammer]

^^ RL?...and which building?

Proposed 7-cinema complex for Crows Nest. Includes retail component & carparking for approx. 230 cars. More renders, plans and great WMV flyaround @ Crows Nest Cinemas (http://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/www/html/4683-proposed-cinema--carpark-crows-nest.asp?intSiteID=1)



This should be pretty sweet, and anything that turns Crowie into more of a cultural/dining area is fine by me. Hope they keep Boris's kebabs though.

Also, hopefully this redevelopment will improve traffic along that small stretch of Alexander where the carpark entrances are. One of my mates has been hit twice in exactly the same spot there.

Also, they should put something in place of the Red Centre (my old place of employment :cheers: ) which now stands folornly empty.

[Avatar]

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm Mathews, many famous and influential people dine at Mathews, me included.

I always wanted to eat at Red Centre but i left it too long.

[Jean Luc]

And decent transport options. St leonards station is too far and the buses suck around there.
I think the Crows Nest bus services are pretty good actually. There's lots of buses to North Sydney and the city, Mosman and Manly, St Leonards and Chatswood, Willoughby, Lane Cove, North Ryde, Macquarie Centre/Uni and Epping. Name another Sydney suburb that has that many direct bus routes, going in many different directions, that isn't a bus/rail terminal or transport interchange.

Speaking of the St Leonards area, I caught a train to there from the city on Sunday and noticed a large area cleared of all buildings next to and west of the rail line, bounded by River Road to the south, between Wollstencraft and St Leonards stations. Anyone know what's going on there?

[Coneslammer]

Speaking of the St Leonards area, I caught a train to there from the city on Sunday and noticed a large area cleared of all buildings next to and west of the rail line, bounded by River Road to the south, between Wollstencraft and St Leonards stations. Anyone know what's going on there?

Yeah i've noticed this too, and it must have been done recently. I just checked Google Earth (imagery from Aus day this year) and it seems like 15 houses have been torn down, but i'm not sure what's replacing it.

For those who aren't in the area....

http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/7205/woolgc7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Also, after thinking about the Crowie cinema complex a bit, i'm kinda worried that it will oversaturate the movie market in the lower North Shore area.

Mosman GU
Orpheum Cremorne
Warringah Mall
Two cinemas at Chatswood
and now one at Crows Nest

It seems like at least one of them will have to give.

P.S: Oh and that apartment complex at the top right of the picture is the most nightmarish place to navigate i've ever come across. Jesus Christ I almost killed myself looking for the right apartment.

[papervagina]

It was to be a 234 unit apartment complex, but the Land and Environment Court didn't like it (and neither did the locals). I'm guessing it's still going to be apartments, but I probably not so many. The developer is/was Australand, but I can't find anything on their site about it.

Edit: Here's a story about it from last year: http://www.northshoretimes.com.au/article/2006/06/22/1320_news.html; there's going to be 186 units in four 5-7 storey buildings.

[Lord_Bertrum]

I wasn't able to open the link there Vag, but I assume that the pre-existing properties were compulsorily purchased.

[Tony P]

Lord_ Bertrum, if you take the semicolon off the end of the address that papervagina posted, it will work. :)

[Lord_Bertrum]

Thank you Tony, here is the article in full...

Vote ends unit battle
Melissa Mitchell - North Shore Times

22Jun06

A UNANIMOUS vote of Lane Cove councillors has ended a three-year battle with one of the country's biggest developers over a unit development at St Leonards.


At its meeting on Tuesday night, the council voted to approve Australand's development application for 186 units in four buildings of between five and seven storeys at 1-16 Duntroon Ave.

The decision closed the case on a development wrangle that began when the State Government set site-specific controls permitting a multi-unit development on the site in 1987.

At that time, the move was not supported by the council or the community.

Then, in 2003, developers Australand lodged an application for 238 units at the site.

That application was refused by the council in September 2003. Australand appealed the decision in the Land and Environment Court but lost the case.

On Monday night, Mayor Ian Longbottom said after the council elections in 2004, he called a meeting with Australand to discuss plans for the site that had been ``going nowhere''.

Cr Longbottom said lengthy negotiations between the council, Australand and residents ensued, resulting in a development application that has ``a very good outcome''.

``I want to thank everyone who has had input in to this,'' he said.

He said the negotiations had resulted in a 25 per cent reduction in the state-mandated specifications for the site.

Part of the 214 approval conditions will include setting up a community liaison committee, comprising three Australand and three community representatives, before work begins at the site.

[CULWULLA]

may 2 sunset
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/214/485680210_a411ae64b3_b.jpg

[CULWULLA]

always wanted to know what view was like from Optus in nth syd/
taken 3 years ago

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1233/534306436_634a419a14_o.jpg

[Fabian]

Impressive view but it won't beat the views from Beau Monde....

http://www.realestate.com.au/objects/props/3376/104023376ml1179530412.jpg

Apparently it has been posted here (years ago) that you gain access to the roof of Optus Tower from level 34. May not be the case now.

[Avatar]

Yes I might have to have a little look.

[Fabian]

We all should go for a look.

[Joelby]

always wanted to know what view was like from Optus in nth syd/
taken 3 years ago

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1233/534306436_634a419a14_o.jpg

Are you sure that's up the top? I was at a function in the conference rooms at the top and I'm certain it was higher than that...

[CULWULLA]

nice skyline view today from dharbour
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1069/585306212_8c84d7db51_b.jpg

[CULWULLA]

late06
http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/5624/northsydneykh8.jpg

[CULWULLA]

BIG NEWS! nearby 100 pac hwy is 90m, so this looks atleast 100m.?
new big office tower for North Sydney! due to improving markets Investa are going ahead with with 28500sqm tower next to Post office.

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/1526/0001695mv0.jpg

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/5744/0001696ja4.jpg

[CULWULLA]

a couple of years ago the site was for 29storeys. looks like they chopped off 8 floors with same design?

model
http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/6814/40mountstly7.jpg

[Muse]

Yay! I've been waiting for news on this one. Thanks CULWULLA.

The only sentence that concerns me is "Completion is targeted for 2010, subject to pre-commitment" but then the rest of the article and 1 of the "Key Points" reassures.

Investa is going to be busy with the construction companies in the near future it seems.

Before 100 Pacific Hwy was completed, I remember posting that it will stretch the North Sydney skyline westward-ho, but it's only a blip that gets lost on the horizon. Hopefully with this newbie, it will clearly do this.

[finn]

^^I haven't got the fin review, but have found a website for the development to be called "ARK" (http://www.arknorthsydney.com.au/)

And renderings:

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/2103/ark01tm3.jpg

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/6720/ark02sp8.jpg

[CULWULLA]

thats the guy!! love it
thanks

[abc]

It's also in the OZ today.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,,22173395-25658,00.html?from=public_rss

[Joelby]

Looks like it's quite high up the hill, so it'll be quite prominent on the skyline if built won't it?

[Fabian]

Stunning design. Will look great from the harbour.

I remember the previous proposal - it was originally planned to be a hotel/serviced apartments.

Noticed that they are doing some demolition work with the Australian Eagle Building in Alfred St, Milsons Point this week too.

[CULWULLA]

checkout the refurb thread fab.
the rl for 40 mount st will be about 60m, so 100m bldg plus 60m= 160mrl.

[CULWULLA]

met with model maker for 40 mount st.he will send me some height info soon.

[Lord_Bertrum]

Is there a big model of North Sydney (the same as the one for the CBD)?
If so where is it kept and can the public view it?

[CULWULLA]

^not that im aware of but there is a model section near where DAs are viewed at NSCC, basically devlopers submit there own model with some surrounding blocks.

[papervagina]

Well here's something interesting from the Bates Smart site (http://www.batessmart.com.au/): a 17 storey residential conversion of the existing 15 storey (butt ugly) Vibe/Duxton Hotel at 88 Alfred Street, Milsons Point.

"The project converts an existing 15 storey hotel into a luxury apartment tower with ground floor retail and strata offices and a three level basement.

"The concrete structural frame has been retained and the building remodelled under strict controls to preserve views and privacy and minimise overshadowing from neighbouring buildings.

"Additions result in the building being articulated into three linear elements that step in plan and section to maximise solar access to the southern neighbour. Projecting balconies define the ends of these linear forms and are orientated towards the harbour and street. These crisp white balconies along with their stepped glazing add visual depth to the facade and reinforce the building’s residential use. Vertical aluminium screens ensure privacy and add a finer layer of articulation to the facade."

http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1175750254_1.jpg http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1175750254_2.jpg http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1175750254_3.jpg http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1175750254_4.jpg

PDF: http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1178675936.pdf

[CULWULLA]

thats pretty cool vag.
piccie from fabs
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v28/Fabian/Sydney%20City/P8152324A.jpg

[Avatar]

Well here's something interesting from the Bates Smart site (http://www.batessmart.com.au/): a 17 storey residential conversion of the existing 15 storey (butt ugly) Vibe/Duxton Hotel at 88 Alfred Street, Milsons Point.

"The project converts an existing 15 storey hotel into a luxury apartment tower with ground floor retail and strata offices and a three level basement.

"The concrete structural frame has been retained and the building remodelled under strict controls to preserve views and privacy and minimise overshadowing from neighbouring buildings.

"Additions result in the building being articulated into three linear elements that step in plan and section to maximise solar access to the southern neighbour. Projecting balconies define the ends of these linear forms and are orientated towards the harbour and street. These crisp white balconies along with their stepped glazing add visual depth to the facade and reinforce the building’s residential use. Vertical aluminium screens ensure privacy and add a finer layer of articulation to the facade."


WTF, I like the vibe hotel and the metal pyramid on top. The tower has reflective smooth glass cladding and is an asset to the Milsons Point skyline. We don't need more crap balconies and residential IMO. I hope this doesn't go ahead :( We also don't need any fucking more white! Sydney is bathed in horrid white. :( :( :( :(

[Avatar]

^^I haven't got the fin review, but have found a website for the development to be called "ARK" (http://www.arknorthsydney.com.au/)

And renderings:

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/2103/ark01tm3.jpg

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/6720/ark02sp8.jpg

This is looking nice now. I do wish they could stretch it to double the height though, now that would be something special, esp in such a high location. It would have the most awesome vies over the city and to the west.

[Muse]

Decided to put this here instead of in The REFURB thread due to it being more than *just* about the refurb. From yesterday's Fin Rev:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/101MillerUpgradeFinRevA.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/101MillerUpgradeFinRevB.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/101MillerUpgradeFinRevC.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/101MillerUpgradeFinRevD.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/101MillerUpgradeFinRevE.jpg

[christarrant]

Yeah, the AFR render of Optus tower doesnt really loook any different from the current exterior - apart from "101" being at the top of the tower, obviously until a new naming rights go to someone...

[Muse]

Darn Optus moving leaving that big gap :bleep: It's going to hold up future devels, but...having said that, the article below on the Lower North Shore from today's SMH is quite positive. Approved projects like 157 Walker St (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=7752677&postcount=121) will probably be held up due to :(

I didn't know Optus had space in Chatty as well :? (last para). Chatswood really does need to turn around as far as building new office space goes...

...and does anyone know where Channel 9 is thinking of relocating to?

The building buzz goes on and on

Carolyn Cummins Commercial Property Editor
September 1, 2007

IN THE past year the North Shore has been abuzz with construction, and more is in the pipeline, developers and property trust managers say.

One of the latest is the $250 million high-tech corporate park at Gore Hill, the former headquarters of ABC television. It is the only big office development in the area. Another big project is in the wings if Channel Nine moves out of its Willoughby bunker, leaving 50,000 square metres for redevelopment. Another is a planned $400 million development at Macquarie Park by ING Industrial Fund.

CB Richard Ellis's director for the Pacific, Kevin Stanley, said in July that the total vacancy rate in North Sydney was 8.3 per cent, compared with 8.1 per cent at the beginning of the year.

Mr Stanley said that while North Sydney's CBD was filling up, vacancies in Crows Nest-St Leonards were also falling gradually. The rate was now 10.2 per cent, compared with 11.1 per cent in January.

This trend was being driven by moderate amounts of space being taken up, although office tenants relocating to Macquarie Park could have an impact, he said.

"At least there's little new office building under way likely to threaten the continuation of this falling vacancy rate."

Knight Frank's latest report on the North Shore said there had been solid rental growth across the board in the year to July.

Of this, growth had been the strongest in North Sydney, with gross effective rents increasing to 9.4 per cent, followed by Crows Nest and Chatswood, with gross effective rents increasing 8.4 per cent and 7.1 per cent respectively, the report said.

Vacancy rates had continued to decline on the North Shore during the first half of this year, the report said, posting the fifth consecutive decrease. Total vacancy was down 140 basis points from six months ago to 8.5 per cent and was now resting 40 basis points below the region's 10-year historical average.

In addition, there had been a positive result for the fourth consecutive period, with 21,721 square metres of office space taken up in the first half of the year across the North Shore.

Chatswood had accounted for 81 per cent of this take-up in space, and North Sydney had accounted for 10 per cent.

The NSW research manager for Knight Frank, Selina Poyner, said that while take-up of space was subdued in North Sydney, tenant demand was expected to pick up in the second half of the year as tenants took over occupation of space for which lease agreements had already been completed.

Ms Poyner said that Chatswood remained one of the markets to watch. The market there turned the corner in the first half of the year, with vacancy rates falling 590 basis points, from 13 per cent in January to 7.1 per cent in July. However, the relocation of Optus to Macquarie Park in the second half of the year would affect the Chatswood market, she said. Optus occupied about 27,000 square metres in Chatswood, representing 9 per cent of the total office stock. A relocation of this scale in this relatively small market would affect vacancy levels heading into next year.

[Joelby]

I didn't know Optus had space in Chatty as well :? (last para). Chatswood really does need to turn around as far as building new office space goes...


Yeah they have alot of office space in the north tower of the Zenith complex. Can't remember how many floors, but alot of their call centres used to be there for cable tv along with network operations etc. I worked up the top floor and it was an awesome building... great views!

[Fabian]

The shell of what was once the Australian Eagle Building....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v28/Fabian/Construction/P8311472.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v28/Fabian/Construction/P8311473.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v28/Fabian/Construction/P8311476.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v28/Fabian/Construction/P8311475.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v28/Fabian/Construction/P8311477.jpg

[CULWULLA]

posted by muse

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/CocaColaArkArticleA.jpg

[Fabian]

Keen to start building already???? It was only approved a few weeks ago. :)

[Muse]

That was only 1/2 the article (I have to divide the screen caps as one cap for AFR aticles is never enough). Here's the rest with more North Sydney goss...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/CocaColaArkArticleB.jpg

...

[CULWULLA]

has ark started yet

[Muse]

^^ Today some hoarding work is up fronting the old telephone exchange buildings. Pretty quiet tho' with no workers around nor demolition works yet begun.

[Fabian]

At least were seeing a start :)
Our ACU campus at North Sydney is around the corner from the site, so I'm up there, I will be able to have a peek a boo.

[Muse]

If you get chance check out Innovation Place´s lobby. I reckon one of the best in North Sydney. Not huge, but spacious split-level with beautiful modern woodwork and a simple but effective water feature.

[Brendan]

^^

Ahh yes that is one hot building. Innovation Place I love you <3.

[Muse]

Demolition for Ark was in full swing today...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v190/Muse11/Arq14December2007.jpg

[Fabian]

Another one to look out for in 08. Just hoping that there is not much digging involved.

[Avatar]

Well here's something interesting from the Bates Smart site (http://www.batessmart.com.au/): a 17 storey residential conversion of the existing 15 storey (butt ugly) Vibe/Duxton Hotel at 88 Alfred Street, Milsons Point.

"The project converts an existing 15 storey hotel into a luxury apartment tower with ground floor retail and strata offices and a three level basement.

"The concrete structural frame has been retained and the building remodelled under strict controls to preserve views and privacy and minimise overshadowing from neighbouring buildings.

"Additions result in the building being articulated into three linear elements that step in plan and section to maximise solar access to the southern neighbour. Projecting balconies define the ends of these linear forms and are orientated towards the harbour and street. These crisp white balconies along with their stepped glazing add visual depth to the facade and reinforce the building’s residential use. Vertical aluminium screens ensure privacy and add a finer layer of articulation to the facade."

http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1175750254_1.jpg http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1175750254_2.jpg http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1175750254_3.jpg http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1175750254_4.jpg

PDF: http://www.batessmart.com.au/images/project/1178675936.pdf


NOT HAPPY. I like the vibe hotel. It's reflective and officey, now we get more mundane residential shit.

[Cell.Phone]

I use to frequently stay at the duxton hotelvery new years. Its a lovely building i would h8 to see it go!

[Fabian]

I'm going to miss the Vibe Hotel in it's current form. It doesn't even look 20 years old, and already being reconverted.

[Lord_Bertrum]

It may not be 20 years old, but to me it looks dated. Incidentally does anyone know what is going in at the end of the strip. Currently there is a big hole.

[papervagina]

It may not be 20 years old, but to me it looks dated.

It sure does. Who was the crazy architect that thought house tiles would go well on the roof of a skyscraper? Nuts! Avatar must really like it - he's made two replies (4 months apart) to one post!

[Avatar]

I do like it, its reflective and smooth faced and Milson's point will now be a jungle of white and beige balconied shit.

[andypandy]

I do like it, its reflective and smooth faced and Milson's point will now be a jungle of white and beige balconied shit.

Agree. While it may not be the prettiest building, it does add some variety to Milsons Point, especially in terms of colour. This new building is quite boring...(which unfortunately means that it fits right in).

[Fabian]

North Sydney Council is proposing to build a cycleway/footpath to link the harbour bridge with St Leonards park running above the Warringah Freeway. Cool idea

http://www.smh.com.au/text/ffximage/2007/12/16/cycleway_wideweb__470x227.jpg

Article - http://www.smh.com.au/text/articles/2007/12/16/1197740096705.html

[Ipggi]

The proposed elevated pathway looks interesting, might become a minor destination in itself just for the views.

[Brendan]

Now that is not bad, I like it. Even though I never walk to the city I am sure I will find a use for this once it is built.

[Trances]

Used to love the walk to city via the bridge when i lived in Netural Bay. But then there already ok access to the bridge. Might be better for the bike riders.

[Fabian]

It will be good for walkers like yours truely, and if you like your city views. It's a bonus :)

[LanceDriver]

I wonder how it joins up to the harbour bridge walkway, it's on the wrong side. It's ok for bikes, it's on the bike path side, but not the walkway side. Also looks a little too narrow to cope with all the pedestrian plus bike traffic. It would be similar to the joint path following the western distributor between Pyrmont Bridge and Slipp Inn, a much shorter joint path but a struggle in peak hour between bikes and people.

It would still be great though, what I nice walk! The chick at the front is having a great old time marching along, listening to the fairies!

[Fabian]

has ark started yet

Passed by this morning while doing a job for uni in the area, and all buildings are now demolished and excavation is about to begin :)

[CULWULLA]

great stuff

[shaggers_jr]

http://www.smh.com.au/text/ffximage/2007/12/16/cycleway_wideweb__470x227.jpg


Could that woman in grey BE any happier to be walking across that bridge?

[christarrant]

Could that woman in grey BE any happier to be walking across that bridge?


LOL.
She scored some pills off the suss looking dude with the jacket on his shoulder behind her....

[cammo2004]

Could that woman in grey BE any happier to be walking across that bridge?

LOL, that's what I thought.

Somebody's on drugs. :nuts:

[Avatar]

Lucky Bitch!

Well if she scored some illpays. they are fast acting, maybe she just shot up and hence the reason her arm is in such a ludicrous position.

[Fabian]

A photo from Friday of work at Ark

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/6125/dscf2960ji7.jpg

[CULWULLA]

thanks, lots happening
just got off phone with ark architect.
heights as follows
height at grd lobby=70mRL
height at LMR=152m
thus height above grd= 82m
at 500ft above sea level it will be quite high on the skyline.

[Muse]

Well, it's pretty cool that for ARK going along with a precom. from Coke. Since Optus pulled out of North Sydney & into Macquarie Park along with the addition of yet unused space in both 100 Pacific Hwy & Innovation Place, the vacancy rate is now in the double digit figures again (about 11%). Anyways, this is expected to drop again in the next couple of years with a squeeze on the Sydney CBD.

Thanks for the update pic Fabian.

[Fabian]

It's disappointing despite the office boom in most major Australian CBD's that North Sydney and Chatswood continues to lag behind.

I did see a huge 'For Lease' sign at 100 Pacific Highway on Friday as well, which appeared to be painted onto the windows.

[CULWULLA]

i wouldnt worry to much fabs. story in todays fin rev about how former optus tower (101 miller) had only a few months ago, all of its 37,700sqm for lease and now theres only 20,000sqm left. filling fast.

[CULWULLA]

view from syd tw yesterday
hey what is crane on canon bldg or is that behind?
so ARK will rise up infront of 100pachwy. same 150m sea level height too. more density i suppose
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2184/2322938340_79a2a0447c_b.jpg

[Fabian]

I will follow it up in North Sydney tomorrow :)

[Fabian]

I was in North Sydney today, and I saw no crane.

Excavation on ARK has been a bit slow over the past month too, though they were going at full blast early this morning, but by lunchtime, everyone had disappeared.

[Fabian]

North Apartments yesterday. Big render has been draped over it's northern side. It looks good when up close.

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/687/dscf3379lj0.jpg

And ARK

http://img362.imageshack.us/img362/5164/dscf3317zk7.jpg

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/9478/dscf3319mw4.jpg

[CULWULLA]

ta fab

[CULWULLA]

just got a tip off from a model maker i know. he is about to make a model of a 22storey office tower for Aurthur st. by DCM.
he said its about 90m.near cnr pac hwy
sounds excellent

[ToeJam]

just found this article about the ark...

Thiess wins $101M Sydney development
Wednesday 30 April 2008

Investa Property Group has awarded a $101 million contract to Queensland-based Thiess Pty Ltd for the design and construction of the landmark "Ark" office tower in the heart of North Sydney CBD.

The 21 level building design was conceived by Rice Daubney Architects as a benchmark for environmentally sustainable design.

The building will feature 2000sqm floor-plates in its low-rise and have an average 1200sqm in the high-rise. This is unique for North Sydney CBD where the average floor plate is less than 700sqm and less than 9 per cent of buildings have floor-plates of more than 1000sqm.

The development has already received a pre-commitment from recent Coca Cola Amatil.

Although 75 percent of the building is still available to lease, Ark is the only new development set to come online in North Sydney prior to 2011.

Ark will use tri-generation gas turbines to provide energy for electricity, hot water and heating/cooling for the building. The building is designed to achieve at least five stars for both the Green Star and Australian Building Greenhouse Ratings wit the delivery team currently looking to up-grade the building to 6-star Greenstar. The development could be the first 6-star Greenstar high-rise tower in NSW.

Building work on site is scheduled to commence in June 2008, with completion in early 2010. Excavation works are currently underway.

The award of this contract follows on from Thiess’ successful completion of premium office towers at 18 Marcus Clarke Street an 7 London Circuit in Canberra, as well as 100 Pacific Highway in North Sydney in 2006.

[ToeJam]

sorry forgot to link:

http://www.qbr.com.au/index.cfm?storyid=34852&cp=displaystory&type=s

[CULWULLA]

great stuff

[CULWULLA]

not good.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2264/2474728948_5cd8854f9a_o.jpg

[CULWULLA]

story in todays fin rev
MIRVAC LURES RTA TO NORTH SYDNEY TOWER
summary-RTA has taken up 15,600sqm of the 37,000sqm 101 miller st (former optus).
there are also many other tennents signed up .
mirvac spent $40mil upgrade when optus left.

[CULWULLA]

the reconstruction of that tower at left looks disgusting
may8
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3008/2488488511_8ee88069f1_b.jpg

[papervagina]

Maybe so, but the crane looks awesome when approaching the bridge from the north.

[Fabian]

I have noticed that some floors have been demolished completely. It's been taking a long time as it has been in that state for months now

[CULWULLA]

yes, nothing has changed for months
goran pics
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2238/2482189383_b560fed815_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2170/2482188307_2c6cfb01ab_o.jpg

[Muse]

2 diggers were well @ work digging the foundations for the new Civic Place Cultural Centre @ Chatswood, which will include a 1,000 seat concert hall, a 500 seat drama theatre, a library (with a water feature in the middle), plenty of smaller amenities & ca