Project for old Kingston High School site to deliver a $300m jolt

One of the largest developments in decades will transform the centre of Kingston, creating hundreds of new homes and up to 1000 jobs.

Traders In Purple CEO Brett Robinson and Kingborough Mayor Dean Winter with the master plan concept for the Kingston High School site redevelopment. Picture: CHRIS KIDD

ONE of the largest residential developments in decades will transform the centre of Kingston, creating hundreds of new homes and up to 1000 jobs.

Kingborough Council will today announce Sydney company Traders In Purple as the development partner for Kingston Park, the site of the former high school.

Mayor Dean Winter said the development of 360 homes, retail and commercial space would give the local economy a $300 million boost.

The development will include a mix of low, medium and high-density residential and retirement living options, including aged care.

Subject to approvals, the first stage of construction could begin on the site next year. The development will include office space and a cinema complex and the 11.3ha site will also feature 4ha of open space.

An aerial view of the development site. Picture: SUPPLIED

“This is a major announcement for the area. This is the biggest development in Kingborough for a long time,” Councillor Winter said.

The project is expected to create up to 1000 jobs during the construction phase as well as boost housing availability in the area and alleviate traffic congestion on the Southern Outlet.

The appointment of the developer and the next stage of the development thus far discussed in closed council meetings will be unveiled to the public today.

The Traders In Purple development proposal. Picture: SUPPLIED

Councillor Winter said the development was proceeding after extensive public consultation over recent years and the development of a masterplan for the site.

“The private residential and commercial development alongside the Kingston CBD will be a catalyst to stimulate more private investment throughout central Kingston,” he said.

“We have managed to present a development that will complement our existing CBD businesses, which was something I was particularly keen to see.

“As part of the overall project council is also committed to maintaining significant areas of public open space and a large playground, which we are currently seeking suggestions for from the community.”

An aerial view of the former Kingston High School.

The development of the site will proceed in stages over the next eight to 10 years.

Traders in Purple chief executive Brett Robinson said work on developing detailed designs and development applications for stage one would begin immediately.

“Kingston Park is critical to the region’s future economic and social sustainability,” he said.

The Sydney-based company has completed 60 projects in NSW and Queensland over the past 30 years and is behind the 242ha Ridgeside development near Evandale in the state’s North.

The former Kingston High school was closed and relocated in 2011. Work has already begun on the $6 million Kingston Community Hub on the site, which is expected to be completed by next year.