Proposed Changes to Marr Street Complex Spark Debate

A seven-storey apartment block in Marr Street, Wollongong, could be revised to accommodate an additional two levels if planning approval is granted. The Wollongong Local Planning Panel is currently considering the amendments, which would take advantage of a height bonus offered by the NSW Government for the provision of affordable housing. The proposed changes would add six new apartments and 14 parking spaces, with six of the 30 apartments under the revisions designated as affordable housing.

Key Takeaways:

• The proposed changes would add two levels to the existing seven-storey apartment complex, increasing the total number of apartments from 24 to 30 and parking spaces from 32 to 46.
• The revised complex would feature six affordable housing units, including one one-bedroom unit and five two-bedroom units.
• The height limit for the site is 24 metres, but with the bonus factored in, the limit is 31.2 metres. The proposed maximum building height of 29.5m is compliant with the permitted height under the affordable housing provisions.
• The development as revised has responded to matters raised by the Design Review Panel.
• The council recommendation for approval comes with conditions, including the removal of one street tree and requirements for electric vehicle charging.

Statistics:

• Total number of apartments: 24 (existing) + 6 (new) = 30
• Total number of parking spaces: 32 (existing) + 14 (new) = 46
• Affordable housing units: 6 (1 one-bedroom unit, 5 two-bedroom units)
• Proposed maximum building height: 29.5m
• Height bonus: 31.2m (with affordable housing provisions)

Sources:

• Wollongong Local Planning Panel
• Wollongong City Council staff report (no date)
• NSW Government Affordable Housing Provisions