Observatory Place Parramatta developer ordered to fix defects after building inspection

The developer behind a high-rise apartment complex – advertised as “an architectural marvel” – has been ordered to fix defects that are causing unhealthy and dangerous conditions at the site.

The concept image of the completed development.

The developer behind a high-rise apartment complex at Parramatta has been ordered to fix defective plumbing works which are causing “unhealthy and dangerous conditions” at the site.

A rectification order issued by Fair Trading NSW will require developer Parkmeng Pty Ltd to carry out remediation works at the $52m apartment building, known as the ‘Observatory Place’ at 5-7 Parkes St.

The order follows an inspection which identified two separate defects at the 173-unit building relating to inadequate plumbing.

The defects included no perimeter drainage measures implemented in the basement wet walls, which has resulted in uncontrolled water flow.

Fair Trading states the absence of perimeter drainage allowed surface water to run onto the slab of the building causing water to ‘pond’ in affected areas.

The development is being advertised as an “architectural marvel”.

In a separate defect, surface water was also not able to be conveyed to a drainage system resulting in “water ponding” in a basement level of the building, partly due to debris in the drainage system.

Fair Trading states the water ponding had created “unhealthy and dangerous conditions” at the building, including for residents accessing the basement.

The building rectification order will remain in place until remediation works are carried out and the order is revoked by Fair Trading.

A submission to Fair Trading from Parkmeng states works to fix the defects were “in progress” but had not been completed.

Fair Trading building and construction compliance director Matthew Whitton has given a deadline of up to three months for the defects to be fixed.

“I accept that the order requires specified actions that are likely to be costly. However, the cost to the developer must be balanced against the benefit to the occupiers to be gained from identifying the specific building work that will eliminate the serious defects,” he said.

Council records show the 24-storey development was approved in 2017.

The development is advertised to buyers as “an architectural marvel, and the perfect place for those wanting to secure a truly unique residence in one of Sydney’s most sought-after locations.”

This publication has been unable to contact Parkmeng for further comment about the rectification order. Representatives for Observatory Place have been contacted, but did not respond at the time of publication.