Mixed Reactions as Surry Hills Development Moves Forward

A six-storey commercial building has been approved for construction in the heart of Surry Hills, set to transform 141-155 Commonwealth Street despite a wave of objections from local residents.

Sydney’s Local Planning Panel approved the project on 18 December 2024, paving the way for the demolition of existing structures and the introduction of new retail and office spaces alongside a landscaped rooftop terrace.

A Development Years in the Making

The site has a history of stalled projects, with previous approvals in 2015 and 2017 for student accommodation and a hotel, respectively. This latest proposal, designed by SJB Architecture, has secured the necessary green light after addressing concerns related to building height and floor space ratios under the Sydney Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2012.

The approved project includes a basement, commercial spaces across multiple levels, and a rooftop terrace designed to integrate urban greenery. The development will replace older buildings from the 1950s and an adjacent gravel car park, aiming to revitalise a long-neglected part of Surry Hills.

Community Voices: Support and Concerns

While some residents have welcomed the development as a much-needed improvement, others remain apprehensive. Concerns about overshadowing, loss of privacy, increased noise, and mental health impacts were prominent among the 21 community submissions received during the consultation period.

One resident expressed worries about the loss of visual privacy for east-facing apartments and potential light spill at night, which she believes will affect the quality of life for nearby occupants. Another resident highlighted that the reduction in solar access could negatively impact both the liveability of homes and the mental well-being of residents.

However, not all feedback was critical. A resident living opposite the site supported the redevelopment, noting that the current structure has been neglected, contributing to health issues like mould. The local believes the new project will rejuvenate the area and set a positive precedent for future developments in Surry Hills.

Heritage Considerations and Design Changes

The site’s rich history, once home to the Sydney Rescue Work Society and other social welfare organisations, also became a point of discussion. Some submissions suggested the inclusion of heritage interpretation elements, such as commemorative plaques, to honour the location’s past.

To address community concerns, modifications were made to the development conditions, including clarifications on protecting street trees, adjusting noise control measures, and ensuring rooftop activities respect residential privacy.

Published 5-February-2025