17 July 2025
The NSW Independent Planning Commission has today approved the Novus on Albert Build-to-Rent (SSD-59805958) Project located at 763-769 Pacific Highway, Chatswood within the Willoughby City Council Local Government Area.
The Trustee for Albert Avenue Sub Trust (Applicant) sought approval for the demolition of existing buildings and construction of a 27-storey shop-top housing development comprising 198 build-to-rent units, retail premises, car parking across 3 basement levels and residential amenities, co-working spaces and communal spaces.
The Project is expected to support approximately 194 jobs during the construction phase and once operational will generate an estimated 70 retail and operational jobs.
The application was referred to the Independent Planning Commission for determination as Willoughby City Council objected to the proposal.
The two-member Commission Panel, comprising Dr Bronwyn Evans AM (Panel Chair) and Michael Wright met with key stakeholders, conducted a site inspection and locality tour, and received six written submissions.
In its Statement of Reasons for Decision, the Commission found that the development “will contribute to the NSW Government’s housing target of 377,000 well-located homes over the next 5 years whilst also providing additional employment floor space within the Chatwood Central Business District.” The Commission also found that the site is in proximity to excellent public transport links, employment opportunities and social services.
Key community concerns included traffic, potential impacts arising during construction and contamination. The Commission has imposed a range of conditions of consent designed to prevent, mitigate and manage these impacts and to ensure appropriate ongoing monitoring and oversight.
All documents relating to the assessment and determination of this proposal can be found on the Commission's website.