5 apartment developments that sparked urban renewal in Sydney

[edit] Introduction

Urban renewal and regeneration have been breathing life into underutilised areas of Sydney.

With the population of the city rising consistently, it is important for residential developers to continue providing new housing options for residents. This way, both new and old suburbs can be develop a better quality of life.

The arrival of new apartment developments has kick-started the process of urban renewal in neglected parts of the city, paving the way for a bright and prosperous future for those living there.

[edit] What is urban renewal?

Urban renewal is a process of evolution within cities. Over time, we notice our current surroundings are constantly changing and modernising.

Urban renewal, redevelopment and regeneration projects are important to ensure the enduring success of a city. It assists in stimulating the economy by increasing housing growth, new businesses and employment prospects.

Apartment developments are a major element of urban renewal projects and Sydney is predicted to thrive with new affordable housing options for residents.

[edit] The North Village

The North Village is a mixed development in Kellyville, in Sydney’s north west. Over the past ten years, the population of the area has grown to include younger first home buyers employed in white-collar professions.

Apartment developments have increased housing options and revitalised the area by complementing other suburban features and infrastructure. The North Village has grown to include a shopping precinct, restaurants and quality schools. It is a perfect example of how apartment developments and residential developers are responding to government initiatives such as the Kellyville North West Rail Link, increasing access to the rest of the city.

By keeping pace with infrastructure developments and government forecasts, new property developments are creating lively suburbs for Sydney residents.

[edit] Highline Westmead

With western Sydney on the rise, residential developers have started building new apartment developments in Westmead to give residents more options for convenient living.

This new apartment development has been inspired by New York City’s urban renewal project, The High Line. Located at the start of the new Parramatta light rail, Highline Westmead will increase the local population density as well as demand for local businesses.

Giving residents a 35-minute commute to the CBD, the property development will see five buildings constructed on the site. Part of a $1bn expansion plan for the area, over the next few years residents should expect to see the development of local universities. A $95 million refurbishment of The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and Westmead Hospital is also planned.

[edit] The South Village

Another great example of urban renewal is South Village, a property development in Sydney’s south. South Village offers Kirrawee residents a lively community atmosphere with plenty of luxury living options.

The suburb is set to boom with new amenities such as a community shopping centre with retailers including Coles and Aldi, a medical centre and a number of cafés and restaurants. With seven buildings to be constructed, residential developers are expecting the mixed-use space to increase the livability of the commercial and retail-based location.

[edit] Barangaroo

Barangaroo is an exciting new urban renewal project with sustainability at its forefront.

Brownfield land has often been overlooked and underused due to the difficulty in it being developed. However, as cities expand, it is more important for urban developers to look to the future and make the most of these areas.

Like Melbourne’s Docklands, Barangaroo is set to become a buzzing area with substantial property developments and employment opportunities for the new community. More than 50% will be dedicated to creating a public space where people can work, socialise, live and learn more about Sydney’s Aboriginal and maritime history.

One of 19 projects around the world participating in a climate positive project, the environmentally-friendly design aims to reduce construction waste. It will also include a number of native plants and promote an active, healthy lifestyle for residents.

This will hopefully be one of many climate-positive property developments that will set the standard for the future of the city.

[edit] Sydney Olympic Park

One of Sydney’s biggest historical urban renewal projects, Sydney Olympic Park sparked the development of road and rail infrastructure, as well as a complete redevelopment of the focus of the area.

The 2000 Olympic Games gave way to longer-term urban impacts in surrounding areas, and also led to an overhaul of many key elements of the city as it is known today.

Olympic Park is yet to see further substantial development. Transport is set to be revolutionised with the new light rail, and road network improvements are being investigated to support future residential and commercial growth.

This article was written by Peter Neale who works for Deicorp Properties, he is passionate about property development, giving insight into his experience with sales, marketing, leadership and general management.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Ballymun mass housing and regeneration.
• Housing contribution to regeneration.
• Local development orders.
• Regeneration.
• Urban decay.
• Urban renewal.
• Well-being and Regeneration: Reflections from Carpenters Estate.