Wollongong: Developer’s bid to increase “affordable” Burelli St housing tower plans

A nationwide developer has relaunched plans for a high-rise in Wollongong’s CBD, pushing to add extra levels and units to the already approved “affordable” apartment block.

The dealership is set to be transformed into a high-rise structure. Picture: Google Maps

Multimillion-dollar plans to transform a former car dealership in Wollongong into an “affordable” mixed-use housing tower are growing even larger, with developers now seeking approval for a bigger build.

Wollongong City Council previously approved plans to redevelop the site at 37-39 Burelli St into a 14-storey complex with 70 units and ground-floor retail.

But despite already securing the green light, developers ADM Projects have resubmitted the proposal with significant changes.

The Australian-wide firm now wants to add four extra storeys – taking it to 18 levels – and increase the number of apartments to 90.

An ADM Projects spokesman said the additions were in the public’s interest and “worthy of council support”.

Artist impression of the development. Picture: Supplied

He said the project was key for Wollongong, with 15 of the units earmarked as affordable housing.

“It is intended that the affordable housing component will be managed for a period of 15 years by a registered community housing provider,” he said.

The approved plan could grow taller. Picture: Supplied.

“[We and] Southern Cross Community Housing have agreed to work collaboratively and in good faith to provide this affordable housing, with the specific goal for the project achieving the best social, economic, and strategic outcomes for the community.”

Revised plans also include 120 car parks, larger living spaces, expanded retail floorspace, and changed to the building’s facade.

The project is one of several high-rise proposals that could reshape Wollongong’s skyline, with other plans including an 18-storey shop-top tower at 133-135 Crown St, five buildings between seven and 13 storeys at 73-75 Gipps St, four eight-storey buildings with 145 units across Smith and Charlotte streets, and the massive Win Grand development – spanning Crown, Keira, Burelli and Atchison streets – with towers as high as 40 storeys.

Plans for the revised Burelli St tower are on public exhibition until later this month.

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Originally published as Wollongong: Developer’s bid to increase “affordable” Burelli St housing tower plans