A significant housing initiative is taking shape in the heart of Sydney’s evolving suburb of Alexandria as City West Housing, a prominent community housing provider, has embarked on an ambitious project to develop the Bangalay Apartments.
Located at 216-220 Wyndham Street, this development (D/2023/884) is part of the broader revitalisation of the Botany Road Precinct, a transformation into a vibrant commercial and residential hub.
Situated within the City of Sydney Local Government Area, the Bangalay Apartments are strategically positioned near key transport links, including the Waterloo Metro and Green Square train stations, and essential amenities like Alexandria Park. It is part of the Botany Road Precinct, which was rezoned by Council to incentivise new commercial and affordable rental housing developments.
This rezoning aligns with the City of Sydney’s vision of increasing affordable housing in proximity to jobs, services, and public transport.
Photo Credit: D/2023/884
The project has progressed to its Stage 1 Development Application (DA), which is on exhibition until 12 December 2023. This stage is critical for obtaining concept approval and setting the building envelope to inform the design competition.
“Because of the new Waterloo metro, there has been a change to the LEP (Local Environmental Plans) around the Botany Bay Precinct that allows us to increase affordable housing there, and this is the first DA that takes advantage of those increased planning controls,” Lisa Sorrentino, City West Housing’s head of development said.
In addition to providing affordable housing, the development places a strong emphasis on sustainable living. A partnership with the Australian car share network GoGet aims to reduce reliance on cars.
“We want to reduce reliance on cars and be more green. The building is also all electric,” explained Ms Sorrentino, underscoring the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
With Sydney facing significant challenges in providing affordable housing due to high land prices and limited supply, this project marks a crucial step in addressing the housing needs of the community.
“We have managed to purchase this property from our own cash reserves with the help of City of Sydney affordable housing developer contributions. It is an investment that will pay dividends in the uplift in value delivered by the precinct revitalisation plan and in social outcomes transforming people’s lives,” Leonie King, CEO of City West Housing, remarked.
The Bangalay Apartments project represents a significant effort to provide affordable housing in a key area of Sydney, catering to the needs of low to moderate-income households.
With the ongoing development and anticipated approval of the Stage 1 DA, the project is poised to become a model for sustainable and affordable urban living, shaping the future of Alexandria and its community.
Published 29-Nov-2023