Hundreds of homes, a shopping centre and a medical centre on the horizon for Cement Hill

It’s sat derelict for decades but with two development heavyweights at the helm a seaside property is set to be revived. Plans of what’s to come can now be revealed.

For decades, a 12ha eyesore at the top of Cement Hill has sat derelict and attracting anti-social behaviour much to the disappointment of the community.

Now, the long-awaited plans to reinvigorate the seaside suburb of Marino with a residential and retail hub is a step closer to fruition with two development heavy weights signing on for the project.

The Brazzale Group and Villawood Properties have signed on to develop the site with 700 townhouses, a shopping centre, medical centre as well a childcare centre.

Artist impressions for Seacliff Central. Picture: Brazzale Group

After a number of roadblocks, former Planning Minister Vickie Chapman signed off on developing the property in November 2020, citing the area was due for a transformation.

“For decades the site at Seacliff Park has sat unused and has become derelict and an eyesore for local residents,” Ms Chapman said at the time.

After years of the site being used a cement storage facility and a rubbish dump, it was sold to the Gasparin Group with the intent of developing it for housing.

The site will be home to 700 townhouses, a shopping centre, medical centre as well as a childcare centre. Picture: Brazzale Group

A bird’s-eye view of the development. Picture: The 5049 Coastal Community Association

Local residents have been at the forefront of getting the development get off the ground, spending decades campaigning for the revival of the site.

“It is indeed a much awaited moment for our community. Some have been waiting over 30 years for this to happen,” a spokesman for The 5049 Coastal Community Association said.

“We have consistently been in favour of the development, not only for its removal of an eyesore but as a significant contribution to our suburb with increased population, diversity and associated amenities.”

The development would add to a growing just list of projects set to improve the area, with a campaign to retain the Marino Rocks Cafe in the community’s hands going ahead as well as welcoming a million-dollar kiosk in Kingston Park.

Current estimates have construction at the site creating more than 900 jobs during construction and up to 477 at its completion.

A start date for the development is yet to be announced.

Both the Brazzale Group and Villawood Properties have been contacted for comment.