Lancom plans 50 new build-to-rent units in $27 million development application before Lismore City Council

A NSW government-backed build-to-rent project on the Northern Rivers is set to include dozens of diverse apartments. See what’s planned.

An artist impression.

A state government-backed build-to-rent project on the Northern Rivers due to cost almost $30 million is set to include 50 new apartments.

The Lancom project pegged for flood-battered regional hub Lismore is now one step closer to fruition, with plans aired for the future of 138-146 Military Rd, East Lismore, known as “Crawford Land”, next to Crawford Rd.

Lancom seeks approval from Lismore City Council to build the $27.8m residential apartment development, comprising two buildings and a vehicle parking area of up to four storeys.

The state-owned corporation has spruiked the project in a development application as climate-resilient, sustainable and generally well-designed.

Plans are on public exhibition with the council.

A Lancom spokesman said: “Build-to-rent is purpose-built housing designed to be rented out to provide long-term housing security for renters.”

“Our plans were informed by community and stakeholder feedback, planning controls and site investigations, including studies related to local traffic, the natural environment and urban design,” he said.

Leases will be managed by a government agency or community housing provider, the spokesman said.

He said the rental housing would be managed by a government agency or community housing provider.

A concept image in the DA.

“We heard a mix of views and ideas, with many people acknowledging the need for more local housing, including affordable, diverse and more rental housing,” he said.

“Feedback aligns with past community consultation led by Lismore council and Living Lab Northern Rivers, which identified a desire for greater housing diversity, increased density and more affordable housing options.”

Another artist impression.

The project is set to include a mix of apartment sizes to suit various lifestyles and budgets.

Residents would live close to shops, schools, open spaces like parks, Southern Cross University and other community infrastructure.

Developers state the project would be built with the impacts of the record 2022 floods in mind and help house frontline workers, with additional housing crucial.

“The delivery of a high quality BTR (build-to-rent) project in this location will significantly enhance local housing opportunities for a range of residents including key workers, sole person households, families and long term rental households,” the spokesman said.

Pending approval, the project would begin to take shape from 2025, with “keys in doors” expected the following year.

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