Residents divided over new turn in Channel 9 redevelopment plan
Plans to turn the Channel 9 studios in Willoughby into 460 units have taken a new step forward, sparking a mixed response from residents and community groups
North Shore
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Plans for the redevelopment of the Channel 9 studios in Willoughby have taken a new turn, sparking a mixed response from residents on the north shore.
Developer Mirvac has announced plans to redevelop the broadcaster’s Sydney headquarters from next year after acquiring the studios for $227 million this month.
The move is the latest turn in the redevelopment of the 3.2ha site, recognised for its role in producing shows including The Paul Hogan Show, A Current Affair and the Today show.
Mirvac said it intends to redevelop the site in accordance with approved plans for 460 units across 10 separate buildings up to nine storeys tall.
There would also be shops, basement carparking and public open space.
The change in ownership has been met with a mixed report card from residents amid continued concerns over traffic impacts, privacy and “over development” of the site.
Artarmon Progress Association said Mirvac’s announcement to redevelop the site in accordance with approved plans would provide “certainty” for the community.
It comes after previous owners, property fund LEPC9, had proposed to increase the number of apartments to 510.
“As a community we’ve always objected to the redevelopment – we felt it was too dense for that site but the Independent Planning Commission saw otherwise and we have little room to go against that,” progress assocation spokesman Peter Wilton said.
“Residents have always said that increasing the number of apartments was about making as much money out of the site rather than creating something that would fit into the area.
“Sticking to 460 units will at least provide some certainty over what residents can expect in our area. We’ve had meetings with Mirvac and the fact they’re willing to sit down with the community I think is a positive sign.”
Residents on social media have meanwhile expressed opposition to Mirvac’s announcement it plans to demolish the television tower adjacent to the site – a well-known feature on the north shore landscape.
Approved plans show the redevelopment would involve removing “most of the physical and historical evidence” from the site.
Channel 9 said it plans to relocate from Willoughby to 1 Denison St in North Sydney by the end of this year.
The redevelopment would also involve 6000 sqm of public open space, described as providing a “contemporary village-style community”.