Alexandria Archives - Redfern News

New 40km/h Speed Limit Coming to Redfern

Residents and visitors to Redfern will soon experience safer streets as the City of Sydney implements a new 40km/h speed limit in the area. This change is part of a broader initiative to reduce speed limits across Sydney, aimed at improving road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.

The new speed restrictions in Redfern will affect sections of roads that currently have a 50km/h speed limit. This adjustment aligns Redfern with other Sydney suburbs receiving similar speed limit reductions, including parts of Glebe, Forest Lodge, Beaconsfield, Waterloo, Annandale, Alexandria, Zetland, and Woolloomooloo.

Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO, highlighted the significance of this change for Redfern and other affected areas: “When people drive at safer speeds it reduces the number of crashes and their severity, improves safety for people walking and riding and helps to support better place-making.”

For Redfern, a suburb known for its vibrant community and pedestrian activity, the speed limit reduction is expected to enhance street safety and contribute to a more livable urban environment. The change may be particularly impactful given Redfern’s mix of residential areas, community facilities, and proximity to the city centre.

The City of Sydney plans to install new speed limit signs in the coming weeks. To ensure drivers are aware of the changes, temporary electronic signs will be positioned at key locations in Redfern for a minimum of two weeks.

This initiative is part of a long-term strategy by the City of Sydney to improve road safety. Since 2004, the proportion of local and regional roads in Sydney with a 40km/h speed limit or lower has increased from 5% to 75%. The inclusion of Redfern in this latest round of changes brings the suburb in line with this broader safety trend.

While the new speed limit will apply to roads managed by the City of Sydney within Redfern, it’s important to note that some major roads passing through or near the suburb that are under NSW Government control may retain higher speed limits. However, the City is working with Transport for NSW to prioritise speed reduction on these roads as well.

Redfern residents and those who frequently travel through the area are encouraged to stay alert to the new speed limit changes and to always observe posted speed limit signs. The City of Sydney emphasises that these changes will not only make Redfern’s streets safer but also contribute to a quieter neighbourhood with reduced exhaust emissions.

Published 9-July-2024

The Grounds of Alexandria Named Most Instagrammable Restaurant in the World

Sydney has clinched the title of hosting the globe’s most Instagram-worthy dining destination, with The Grounds of Alexandria emerging as the reigning champion, boasting over 120,000 Instagram posts.

With its picturesque alfresco setting and enchanting gardens, The Grounds of Alexandria on Huntley St has become a magnet for social media enthusiasts seeking the perfect snapshot.

The popular dining destination, which opened in 2012, is owned by Ramzey Choker, Jack Hanna, and Barney Walters. Whilst the overall theme remains consistent, The Grounds often introduces seasonal or thematic decorations and installations to enhance the experience for guests. These changes may include festive decorations for holidays, themed events, or special installations to coincide with specific promotions or occasions.

Whether savouring artisanal cuisine, indulging in freshly brewed coffee, or simply basking in the beauty of its surroundings, patrons are drawn to The Grounds for its unique blend of culinary excellence and aesthetic appeal.

Instagrammable Restaurants in the World

Sketch in London claims the second spot on the list, enchanting visitors with its transformation from an 18th-century townhouse into a captivating cocktail lounge. Meanwhile, Catch in Los Angeles clinches third place, enticing patrons with its trendy rooftop ambience in West Hollywood.

Beyond the top three, a diverse array of culinary destinations captures the imagination of Instagram users around the world, according to Betway.

Pink Mamma in Paris, renowned for its vibrant ambience, secures fourth place, while The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood, Texas, captures fifth place with its rustic charm. Hong Kong’s Man Wah, Bangkok’s Thip Samai, and New York City’s Le Coucou follow closely, each offering a unique blend of culture and cuisine that resonates with Instagram users worldwide. The top ten are La Favela in Bali, known for its eclectic charm, and Dalloway Terrace in London, a haven of elegance and sophistication.

Rank	Restaurant	Location	Instagram Posts
1	The Grounds of Alexandria	Sydney	120,440
2	Sketch	London	94,098
3	Catch	Los Angeles	66,092
4	Pink Mamma	Paris	29,242
5	The Salt Lick BBQ	Driftwood	23,741
6	Man Wah	Hong Kong	18,468
7	Thip Samai	Bangkok	16,846
8	Le Coucou	New York City	15,989
9	La Favela	Bali	15,444
10	Dalloway Terrace	London	13,471

Methodology

Betway’s analysis encompassed a comprehensive review of Instagram hashtags for 100 renowned restaurants globally, as well as an additional 100 in the United States. The study sought to identify the most popular dining destinations based on their social media presence. Restaurants lacking relevant hashtags were excluded from the rankings, ensuring a precise assessment of each venue’s online popularity.

Housing Boost in Alexandria: City West Lodges Ambitious Project

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

New Cycleways and Paths Enhance Bike-Friendly Status of Alexandria and Erskineville

Photo Credit: City of Sydney / news.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Did you know that there are several new cycleways and shared paths in Alexandria and Erskineville?

The introduction of new cycling infrastructure was driven by a growing trend in Alexandria and Erskineville, areas that recent research have identified as emerging places for interest in cycling in Sydney.

One of the most prominent additions is a 1.2-km, two-way separated cycleway that runs along Henderson Road, Railway Parade, and Bridge Street. This route connects Erskineville to Eveleigh, serving businesses and homes in the area. These newly established connections are part of the City of Sydney’s ongoing efforts to facilitate better cycling and walking infrastructure.

Sydney LM Clover Moore AO expressed her excitement about the newly established infrastructure and its potential to transform the city into a hub for cycling, walking, and public transport.

“These permanent cycleways and shared paths leave local streets safer, calmer and quieter, and our air cleaner to breathe. They’re connecting neighbourhoods, increasing transport choices, and leading to more active and healthy communities. We are making cycling easier and safer, so it is an appealing and feasible option for even more people,” she said.

Mitchell Road and Huntley Street have also received significant enhancements, providing better access for riders from the southern areas of Alexandria, Erskineville, Redfern, and beyond. Furthermore, the completion of dedicated cycleways along parts of Ashmore and Harley Streets, combined with new shared paths between Elliott Avenue and Buckland Street, has enhanced connectivity for residents, particularly students and parents accessing nearby schools.

The rising popularity of cycling in Alexandria and Erskineville is further evident in a recent survey conducted by the University of NSW, which found that 19% of residents in the Ashmore precinct ride a bike to work or study.

When combined with the 26% of residents who walk to work or study, these suburbs are becoming model communities for active transport.

The City of Sydney’s manager of cycling strategy, Fiona Campbell, attributes this success to the city’s investments in safe cycling infrastructure and educational efforts.

“This is a case of build it and they will come. The City of Sydney has invested in safe infrastructure which is a big component. But we have also put lots of effort into educating the community and offering courses that empower people to feel confident riding in a big city like Sydney,” she said.

“We have more work to do but the signs for Sydney’s riding community look positive.”

Published 13-October-2023

Top Places for Brunch in Alexandria

For those seeking a lively, laidback brunch experience with delicious food and great coffee, Alexandria offers some of Sydney’s best places for brunch. Check these out.

Read: Redfern’s Aplenty Elevates Communal Dining To A Whole New Level

Mecca Coffee

brunch in Alexandria — Photo credit: Mecca Coffee/Facebook

Known as one of Sydney’s leading specialty coffee establishments, Mecca has garnered a loyal following for its top-notch brews and scratch-made fare. Stepping inside the cosy space, customers are greeted by the rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans perfect for brunch.

Beyond exquisite coffee, Mecca excels at creating a warm, welcoming environment. The interior features a relaxed blend of modern and industrial details, with high ceilings, steel accents, and exposed wooden beams. An array of vibrant indoor plants adds an inviting pop of greenery. When weather permits, outdoor seating allows guests to soak up the sunshine.

The food menu showcases Mecca’s dedication to seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Pastries and breads are supplied daily by renowned Sydney bakeries like Brickfields and Flour and Stone. Under the direction of Head Chef Brett Barbuto, the kitchen turns out creative dishes like Soft-Shell Crab Karaage Burger, Dutch cream potato & chive pancake, and lamb shawarma.

Address: 26 Bourke Rd, Alexandria

Website: https://www.mecca.coffee/

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/MeccaCoffeeRoasters

The Grounds of Alexandria

The Grounds of Alexandria is a Sydney staple known for its playful spirit, abundant brunch options, and sweets galore. Stepping inside the vibrant space feels like entering a wonderland.

The menu runs the brunch gamut, dishing up classics like smashed avocado toast, fluffy buttermilk pancakes, loaded breakfast sandwiches, and crisp garden salads. Fresh juices, milkshakes, and smoothies provide a boost of fruity flavour. For those looking to imbibe, wines, beers, and brunch cocktails like bloody marys and mimosas are available starting at 10:00 a.m.

Beyond the delicious meals, The Grounds’ real draw is the whimsical setting across multiple structures. There’s the lively main cafe and bar, an airy potting shed which currently features the ‘Candyland,’ a homey licensed house, a sun-soaked patio, and sprawling gardens dotted with seating nooks. Families will delight in the mini farm featuring goats and chickens.

Address: 7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria

Website: https://thegrounds.com.au/

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/thegrounds

Meet Gerard

Meet Gerard is a charming neighbourhood cafe that has quickly become a go-to brunch spot thanks to its top-notch coffee and craveworthy food menu.

Meet Gerard shines with its dedication to serving specialty coffee from local award-winning roaster Single O. Experienced baristas craft lattes, flat whites, pour-overs and more using Single O’s seasonal beans and single-origin offerings from guest roasters. For those seeking something cooler, fresh-pressed juices and cold brews hit the spot.

The all-day brunch menu satisfies with classic options like avocado toast, bacon and egg rolls, and honeyed granola bowls. Those craving heartier fare can dive into Korean fried chicken burgers, wagyu beef burgers, or the signature Gerard’s Big Brekkie. However, the star of the show is the chicken sandwich, served with thick-cut bread.

Address: 54 Henderson Rd, Alexandria

Website: https://www.meetgerard.com.au/

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/meetgerardcafe/

Read: Redbird Chinese and Ciccone & Sons in Redfern Unveil an Unconventional Limited Edition Gelato Fusion

Published 11-August-2023

Alexandria Office Space with Multi-Level Warehouse Development to Proceed

Photo Credit: Charter Hall/YouTube

Did you know that there could soon be a new, multi-level warehouse development in Alexandria?

Located at 520 Gardeners Road and named Ascent on Bourke, the development will replace a former hardware and building supplies store as it no longer meets the requirements of modern industrial uses.

Charter Hall, one of Australia’s leading property investment and fund management groups, has received approval to proceed to redevelop a redundant site as a new multi-level warehouse and distribution centre, operating 24/7.

Urbis, a leading planner, stated that the site’s location makes it ideally suited for freight logistics and last-mile facilities, given its strong tenant demand and access to major infrastructure hubs. This is part of a broader trend of increasing demand for logistics facilities, driven by the growth of e-commerce and the need for fast, reliable delivery.

Once operational, Ascent on Bourke should provide 659 jobs, a significant boost to the local economy. The development is part of the Southern Enterprise Area, which has seen progressive renewal over the past 5 to 10 years.

Published 4 April 2023

Inventia Moves Lab Facilities to Alexandria to Bring More Jobs

Inventia Life Sciences, a biotech company producing 3D cell culture and technology, is upscaling and moving its new state-of-the-art manufacturing and laboratory facilities in Alexandria.

Through NSW’s Jobs Plus Program, Inventia will expand its 430-sqm facility into a 1,500-sqm hub as it ramps up the commercialisation of its Rastrum 3D bioprinter and biomaterials.

The expansion will allow Inventia to keep pace with the demands in the worldwide market, as well as support 76 direct and 67 indirect FTE jobs by June 2024.

Currently, four leading pharmaceutical companies are using the company’s technology for developing much-needed drugs but the expansion could potentially bring more opportunities and advancements.

“We are delighted by the support we have been given by the NSW Government. As a result of the Jobs Plus grant we have been able to scale up our production capabilities, employ more highly skilled people including biologists, software and mechanical engineers and take this revolutionary technology to the world,” Dr Julio Ribeiro, Inventia’s founder and CEO, said.

“Inventia’s drop-on-demand 3D bioprinting technology is the most advanced and precise 3D printing of its kind in the world. It is well-placed to consolidate Australia as a global leader in this field. These additional funds will help us cement Australia’s position and expand our global presence.”

Inventia is not the only company to benefit from the Job Plus Program as DNEG, one of the world’s leading visual effects (VFX) companies delivering Hollywood box office hits, will also establish its first Australian-based content services studio at Sydney’s Tech Central. The move will create more than 470 highly skilled jobs and 550 indirect jobs.

Also taking part in the program is Sparro, a digital marketing company based in Haymarket, which will deliver 90 direct and 58 indirect FTE jobs.

According to Alister Henskens, the Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, the latest Jobs Plus round will create more than 2,500 jobs across a range of industries, including manufacturing, food and beverage, digital technology and MedTech.

Jobs Plus support is provided through a range of initiatives including payroll tax relief, support for infrastructure and subsidised training programs, along with the provision of free or subsidised government spaces and accommodation.

Hijinx Hotel, the World’s First Challenge Room Hotel, to Open in Alexandria

If you enjoy challenge rooms or escape rooms, you’re going to love the Hijinx Hotel in Alexandria. It will be the world’s first hotel with 15 immersive challenge rooms for people who are up to the task of figuring a way out of a difficult situation!

From Funlab, the team behind recreational sites like Strike, Holey Moley, Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, and B Lucky and Sons, Hijinx Hotel was not built to accommodate guests but to give them a unique experience. Guests will have no need to pack a suitcase but they will need to sharpen their mental and physical agility to play in the rooms.

The challenge rooms are grouped in sets with five different interactive areas, which the guests are expected to complete in the allotted time. Each room may accommodate a party of six.

While there are no ocean views at this hotel, the rooms carry interesting themes that include a throwback to well-loved childhood games like The Floor is Lava, Twister, Tetris, or Pinball. Another room is like a tribute to the Titanic and some rooms are designed like a bowl of cereals, giant blocks of letters, or a giant piano. Everything looks chaotic but all in the name of fun!

When guests arrive at Hijinx Hotel, they will be greeted by the concierge and staff at the hotel lobby and will be given their room keys. Before or after they start with the challenge, they may also sit down and unwind at the hotel bars, which are also designed with familiar elements from “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” or “The Grand Budapest Hotel.”

Guests may also warm up or cool down with a game of golf at Holey Moley, which is also inside the hotel. The hotel will also cater to group events for a party of 30 people. The challenge rooms are ideally suited for guests as young as 5 years old.

Hijinx Hotel will officially open on 17 June 2022. Bookings are now accepted online.

Animal Advocates Petition Bunnings to Stop Sale of Glue Traps

Wildlife rescuers are calling on Bunnings, the hardware giant with a massive outlet on Euston Road in Alexandria, as well as other retailers to remove the sale of glue traps in their inventory.

Whilst the glue traps are meant to catch rodents and other pests, they can also be indiscriminately snaring other animals like micro bats, kookaburras, or blue-tongued lizards. A veterinary clinic in Sydney has also desperately saved kittens as they have been trapped in devices meant for rats.

When trapped, the rescuers said the animals could slowly die of starvation or dehydration. Some species also try to remove themselves from the glue trap by biting or gnawing through their limbs.

“These traps cause horrific pain and suffering to any animal that comes in contact with them,” the online petition to stop the sale of glue traps stated.

“A Bunnings representative said, whilst they complied with all Australian laws for selling glue traps, they were also aware of the risks associated with the products they sell, on birds and other wildlife.”

“We are asking Bunnings, Chief Operating Officer, Mr Ben McIntosh if he will help in getting Bunnings to uphold community standards for environmental responsibility and animal welfare.”

As of press time, the petition has over 17,000 signatures.

Adrian Pearce, the general manager of merchandise for Bunnings, said that the sticky traps they sell contain glue strong enough to trap insects but not mammals and birds. These are recommended for indoor use only, which shouldn’t be exposed to wildlife. The “indoor use” label is on the packaging.

Mr Pearce also said that, unlike other retailers, they do not sell glue traps for catching rodents. The retail giant works with innovative suppliers to follow the advice of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority and state regulatory bodies. Glue traps have been banned in Victoria, Tasmania, and the ACT.

A quick look at the stocks online indicates that Bunnings Alexandria currently has one product, The Buzz Indoor Pest Glue Trap, with advanced soft-set insect glue traps. The packaging indicates that it’s featured with a “professional strength glue” meant for capturing spiders, cockroaches, scorpions, earwigs, and “other unwanted household pests.”