Edgecliff: 12-storey tower plans one step closer

Plans for a mixed use complex in Sydney’s east — featuring retail, commercial and residential space — would mean building much higher than the existing limit. Find out why it could happen.

136-148 New South Head Rd, Edgecliff. Picture: Woollajra Council papers.

Major plans for a 12-storey tower in Sydney’s eastern suburbs - featuring retail, commercial and residential space, is one step closer.

The NSW Government Planning Department has issued gateway determination on a planning proposal lodged by Ingham Planning for 136-138 New South Head Rd, Edgecliff.

The plans would see the height limit of the site raised from 13m to 46m - almost four times the existing height limit.

The vision for the site is for a 12-storey tower including ground floor retail space, 3-4 levels of commercial space and 41 residential apartments.

In July 2022, Woollahra Council ultimately refused to endorse the planning proposal - despite council officers finding the plans had “site specific merit” as they awaited an Edgecliff masterplan report due in coming months.

The proposed development at 136-148 New South Head Road, Edgecliff. Picture: Woollahra Council papers.

At the time some councillors suggested the proposed change to height limits represented “ad hoc decision-making” and hurt the council‘s overarching vision for the commercial precinct.

A rezoning review was then considered by the NSW Government’s Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel which resolved to submit the plans for gateway determination as it had strategic and site specific merit.

Planners said the project would result in community infrastructure and “affordable housing” at the site, housed directly opposite the Edgecliff railway station and bus interchange.

The planning proposal to allow for a 12-storey tower will be placed on public exhibition in the near future.