New proposed development for the old Asti Motel site in Larrakeyah

One of Darwin’s biggest eyesore blocks of land could soon be filled, with a new development proposal submitted for approval. See the plans.

One of Darwin’s largest holes could soon be filled with a development application for two 10-storey towers submitted.

The application for 1-2 Montoro Ct and 7-8 Packard Pl in Larrakeyah, submitted by Cunnington Rosse on behalf of Joondanna Investments, seeks a permit to develop the old Asti Motel site.

The proposed development consists of 44 residential dwellings and 47 serviced apartments across the two towers, with a large open space.

“In addition to the communal gardens, the ground level includes a cafe/function space with associated deck area, communal gymnasium, reception, bicycle parking, plant and service areas and vehicle access (from both Packard Place and Montoro Court) to the basement carparking levels,” the Statement of Effect reads.

The proposed development at the Asti Motel site. Picture: Troppo Architects

The towers would feature 44 residential dwellings and 47 serviced apartments. Picture: Troppo Architects

The ground level will include a cafe space. Picture: Troppo Architects

“Three basement carparking levels are proposed, with a total of 184 carparking spaces and 19 motorcycle parking spaces.

“In addition to the disabled parking spaces, five accessible parking spaces and six motorcycle bays are provided at ground level.”

The first building, closest to the Smith St boundary, features 28 residential and 27 serviced apartments.

Building two, towards the Packard Place frontage, features 16 residential and 20 serviced apartments.

The apartments in each building are a mix of two and three bedrooms.

“The proposed development will increase the provision and range of short-term and residential accommodation available within immediate proximity of the Darwin CBD,” the Statement of Effect, regarding the merit of the proposed development, reads.

“The redevelopment of the site will enable the reuse of vacant land and will appropriately integrate with the surrounding locality.”

The exhibition period for the development application closes at midnight, October 7.

The La Pira family has owned the old Asti Motel site since the early 1970s.

Plans for the last proposed development of the site were detailed in 2019.

It featured three towers totalling 140 apartments and a restaurant/cafe on the ground floor.

The site is one of multiple large, empty blocks of land in the vicinity of the Darwin CBD, including at Chinatown, the Darwin Waterfront and the Esplanade.