Asquith KFC: Developer’s plans to expand portfolio with $9m shop top housing

A developer who owns two KFC food chain restaurants is looking to expand his portfolio after proposing a $9m shop top housing development in Asquith. Would you want to live above a KFC restaurant?

The owner of KFC chains is proposing a future shop top housing development at the Pacific Hwy in Asquith. Picture: Hornsby Shire Council website

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An owner of KFC chains is Sydney’s upper north shore is looking to expand his portfolio in a different direction, after proposing a $9m shop top housing development.

It’s been revealed the developer Frank Soertsz, submitted a concept development plan to the council on behalf of Soertsz Property Group for the construction a new KFC restaurant with four storeys of residential apartments above.

Artist impression of shop top housing proposed for Asquith to replace a KFC restaurant. Picture: Hornsby Shire Council website

It’s believed Soertsz Property Group also owns the Pennant Hill’s KFC restaurant, which is currently subject to a development application proposing upgrades to an old restaurant.

The latest proposal at Asquith would involve knocking down the existing fast food restaurant, the consolidation of lots, excavation works for a two-level basement car park and construction of a new building on a 2700 sqm site located at 409 Pacific Highway.

Artist impression of a proposal which would see four levels of residential apartments above a KFC restaurant in Asquith. Picture: Hornsby Shire Council website

Mr Soertsz’s vision to revitalise the site includes a fresh KFC drive-through and dine in restaurant with 26 seats and 60 parking spaces at ground and basement levels.

The plans include 35 new apartments which would have a mix of one, two and three bedroom units and a roof top communal space.

The existing restaurant has 30 seats inside and 32 parking spaces.

The existing KFC restaurant which would be demolished if a development application is approved.

Documents submitted to the council on behalf of the developer state the development provides housing options for the future, as well as, “the ongoing preservation of an existing longstanding business and the provision of high density housing in proximity to public transport.”

The developer has requested the council to support a “minor variation” in height compliance in a R4 high density residential zone.

Another angle shows the existing KFC restaurant located on the Pacific Hwy in Asquith.

“The proposal generally complies with the 17.5m maximum height limit with the exemption of the lift overrun,” a report states.

Traffic and parking is also addressed: “any unsatisfactory traffic implications”.

The report concludes the proposal is “unlikely to result in any adverse impact to the public interest” and seeks the council’s support.

It’s unknown whether there has been any public submissions opposing the development.

The Advocate has made attempts to contact the developer and KFC for comment but neither have responded.