The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has recommended for approval a contentious $87.5 million seniors housing development in Cremorne.
The development, which would house 58 independent living units and a 41-bed residential aged care facility, has sparked debate within the local community.
The project, known as the Pathways development, has undergone significant revisions following initial community objections, notably the preservation and adaptation of six heritage-listed cottages on Parraween Street.
The development, located in a high-density residential zone near Military Road, aims to address the growing need for aged care accommodation on the lower north shore. The original design was largely rejected by residents, featuring an eight-storey building on Gerard Street and multiple four-storey buildings on Parraween Street. The revised plan reduces the Gerard Street building to seven storeys and modifies rooftop spaces to lessen its visual impact and overshadowing.
Heritage Preservation and Design Changes
The developer has committed to retaining the facades and streetscape appearance of the six heritage cottages, repurposing their interiors for communal spaces like lounges and offices. The through-site pedestrian link has been redesigned with ramps to improve accessibility for people with mobility issues, and a public park will connect Parraween and Gerard Streets, providing a 24/7 accessible green space.
The number of parking spaces for independent living units has been slightly reduced. In its recommendation, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure highlighted the revised project’s positive aspects, including the preservation of heritage and improvements to public spaces. However, they have placed strict conditions on the approval, including appointing a heritage architect to oversee conservation works and implementing a detailed construction traffic management plan.
Community and Council Reactions
Despite the changes, the Cremorne Conservation Group (CCG) remains concerned that the development prioritises developer profits over community benefit. The CCG president, Fiona Gracie, stated that the group believes the development is skewed towards the developers’ long-term profit objectives, with very little provision for public benefit in what continues to be a vibrant commercial and residential area.
They will address the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) to highlight their ongoing concerns. North Sydney Council objected to the project and imposed heritage orders on the six buildings. Amara Cremorne by Pathways is one of several aged care developments approved since the planning pathway opened in November 2021, including projects in Randwick, Carlingford, Charlestown, Wahroonga, and Narwee.
Next Steps and Public Consultation
The Independent Planning Commission (IPC) will decide on the project. A public meeting is scheduled for 5 March 2025, and community members and stakeholders must register by 25 February 2025 to participate. Following the consultation, the IPC will consider all submissions and expert reports before finalising the decision.
Published Date 20-March-2025
