Plans reveal proposal for uni accommodation in Rockdale

Plans have been revealed to create an eight-storey university housing for 130 students to study, hang out, attend activities in Sydney’s south.

Concept image for a proposed eight-storey university accommodation with cafe on the ground floor. Picture: Supplied

Plans have been revealed to create an eight-storey building for university accommodation where 130 students can also study, hang out and attend activities in Sydney’s south.

A development application has been submitted to Bayside Council for a mixed-use building of 130 co-living rooms, communal spaces for recreational activities and a commercial space, likely a cafe, on the ground level at 23-25 Frederick St, Rockdale.

Property developer Freecity will spend more than $19m if its plans are approved.

A plan of management has been prepared by UniLodge, an operator of co-living accommodation, as part of the development application but no specific operator has been finalised.

“UniLodge Rockdale has been designed to ensure that all building facilities enhance the study environment and social experience for students,” the plan of management document said.

Concept image of a communal area. Picture: UniLodge

“Residential life is a great chance for our residents to try new experiences, to break the mould and to make some new friends within the property.”

All apartments within the property will contain a kitchen, bathroom, bed, wardrobe, shelving, mirror, study desk and chair, rubbish bin, blinds, internet connection and adequate cupboards and shelves.

The facade of the building with a commercial space. Picture: Supplied

There is no requirement to have a mix of types of units for co-living housing and therefore there are only 130 single rooms provided, with no balconies.

All rooms will be available on either a six or 12-month contract with the possibility for shorter leases.

The proposed facilities include communal recreation areas, kitchen and dining, study facilities, laundry, an outdoor terrace with lounge areas and administration facilities.

There will be 130 bicycle spaces, six car spaces and four motorcycle parking spaces.

The site is located close to Sydney train network, and within walking distance to Rockdale Plaza Shopping Centre, which would allow residents easy access to all Sydney universities, the documents said.

“Being located within an easy walk to public transport and numerous amenities, there will be little requirement for car ownership or resident parking on site,” the documents said.

Concept image of the development. Picture: UniLodge

The car spaces – which will be restricted to residents – will be available through a booking portal where residents can nominate the length of use and make payment; and no resident will be permitted to use the spaces for their personal car.

The accommodation is designed for a variety of students from different backgrounds, cultures and socio-economic backgrounds, and provides nine accessible rooms.

“The weekly rent covers not only a room and a bed but importantly staff management to deliver a program to assist in the personal development and welfare of students,” the documents said.

“Making the jump from high school to university can be daunting and therefore we provide programs to make the transition easier.”

Concept image of a room. Picture: UniLodge

Examples of events and activities could include a welcome party at the start of each semester, sporting events, study groups, leadership training, supporting charities, local attractions such as attending the aquarium and zoo, movie nights and in-house competitions.

The operations team on site will be responsible for leasing, admissions, resident induction, resident administration, facilities management, cleaning, security, pest control and waste management, pastoral care and residential life and management of shared car spaces.

UniLodge would employ a property manager of operations, residential life co-ordinator, customer service co-ordinator, maintenance manager and five residential advisor for nightly coverage.

All costs for utilities including gas, water and electricity will be included within the weekly accommodation fee, while internet packages would be available.