Chatswood’s latest tower approved after developer’s legal bid
The rapidly growing Chatswood skyline is set to continue its high rise transformation after a legal bid for a shop and unit complex in the town centre.
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Developers have won a legal bid to build the latest high-rise building in the Chatswood town centre amid backlash from nearby residents and opposition from council planners.
The Land and Environment Court handed down its decision on the six-storey building at a hearing this week after an appeal to have the project approved was launched by developer firm UT 282 Victoria Pty Ltd.
Concept plans show construction works will involve partially adapting the existing building into three levels of shops and offices and a further three storeys of apartments.
The development, standing opposite Chatswood Chase on Victoria Ave, will also have 35 carparks and a rooftop communal open space for occupants.
The court approval came after surrounding residents lodged submissions opposing issues including the “bulk” of the building and potential traffic impacts.
One submission questioned the cumulative impacts of project coupled with the approved expansion of the Chatswood Chase, saying: “surely having both projects proceeding at the same time will create traffic chaos.”
Similar concerns were flagged by the Willoughby Local Planning Panel which rejected the project in June last year due to the 13m breach of the site’s 14m height limit and a net loss of jobs from the demolition of the existing building.
Developers in court agreed to reduce the scope of the building from seven storeys to six as well as dropping the number of units from 20 to 15.
Planning documents stated the project would address demand for units in the local area and would be adequately serviced by public transport links including nearby bus stops and Chatswood Station.
“The project (will cater for) increased demand for apartments for owner occupiers and growing family needs in Chatswood,” the plan stated.
The court, in handing down its decision, found the project was in line with zoning laws for the site that would promote jobs and “strengthen the role of Chatswood as a major centre”.
The development was approved on 98 conditions including a limit on construction work from 7am to 5pm on weekdays and to 3pm on Saturdays.