Tag: Residential Development

Toowong Developers Propose High-Rise Despite Height Restrictions

Photo Credit: DA/A006737871

Developers in Toowong have submitted plans to build a 12-storey residential tower at 70 Sylvan Road, exceeding the local height limit of eight storeys and sparking debate within the community.

Read: Toowong Central Redevelopment Progresses with Community Feedback

12-storey residential tower
Photo Credit: DA/A006737871

High-Rise Plans in Toowong Challenge Height Restrictions

BCC is currently reviewing a proposal from developers aiming to build a 12-storey residential tower at 70 Sylvan Road, Toowong. The site, located at the intersection of Croydon and Jephson streets and close to the Regatta Hotel, has a current height limit of eight storeys. The proposal, submitted by Pradella, features 53 residential units along with a rooftop pool and entertainment area.

This ambitious plan has drawn attention due to its proposed height, which surpasses local planning regulations. The development has been designed by HAL Architects, who emphasise that the building’s aesthetics draw inspiration from Toowong’s rowing history. According to the architects, the curved and sculpted form of the structure is meant to evoke a sense of flowing water, reminiscent of the area’s subtropical Queenslander heritage.

Toowong residential development
Photo Credit: DA/A006737871

Developer’s Argument

Despite the height restriction, developers argue that taller buildings have previously been approved in the area. They believe the proposed Sylvan Residences would blend into the existing skyline and contribute positively to the local architectural landscape.

In materials submitted to the BCC, HAL Architects describe the tower as embodying Toowong’s character. 

12-storey residential tower plans
Photo Credit: DA/A006737871

Planning Application Details

The application  (A006737871) was submitted on 24 March 2025 by PP Sylvan Pty Ltd. Currently, the application is in progress under an impact assessment level, awaiting a decision from the BCC.

high-rise proposal residential development
Photo Credit: DA/A006737871

Future Implications

As of today, only one resident has submitted an opinion on the proposed development. While he welcomes the project to provide more housing in the area, he also raised concerns about the impact on his view. He stated that the new high-rise could “completely decimate” his view of the trees and morning sunlight.

Read: Brisbane Boys’ College Toowong Secures Historic Podium at GPS Swimming Championships

As the application progresses, community input and BCC deliberations will play crucial roles in determining the project’s outcome. The BCC has yet to make a final decision. Residents are encouraged to submit their feedback.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Published 1-Apr-2025

New Development Plans for Former ABC Site on Coronation Drive in Toowong

Revised plans for the former ABC site on Coronation Drive in Toowong now involve three residential towers, reuse of a heritage-listed house as a public site, and provisions to make way for the Green Bridge landing site.

Read: Toowong, St Lucia to West End Green Bridges Confirmed After Overwhelming Support

DA A005881543, filed in mid-November 2021, comprises three residential towers with a maximum of 15 storeys each, with a combined total of 134 multiple dwellings. 

Three residential towers Coronation Drive in Toowong view from the river
Photo Credit: Artist’s Rendering/Developmenti/BCC

The new towers on Coronation Drive in Toowong will have communal rooftops that offer amenities like a riverside pool and spa, a dry and wet lounge, and a BBQ with outdoor dining areas. The buildings will also have shared workspaces, a gym, and their own mailrooms. 

Consolidated Properties bought the Coronation Drive site and hired John Wardle Architects for this new proposal.

The proposal essentially replaces the previous application of a 25-storey building from Sunland, dubbed the Champagne Flute, which would have been the first Brisbane project of internationally renowned architect Zaha Hadid.  

Aerial view
Photo Credit: Developmenti/BCC

Since a section of the development will become part of the planned Toowong to West End Green Bridge, the proposal has provisions for adjustments for the bridge’s landing site.

The plan also includes the refurbishment and re-use of the heritage-listed Middenbury House as a public site and mixed-use space with access to the Brisbane River. Consolidated Properties also want to line Coronation Drive with Fig Trees to improve the area.

Lower Plaza Coronation Drive in Toowong
Photo Credit: Developmenti/BCC
Upper Plaza Coronation Drive in Toowong
Photo Credit: Developmenti/BCC

Per the developers, some of the landscaped apartments fronting a new public site will have a 40-metre open accessible open space near the Brisbane River. On the other hand, an extension of the Bicentennial Bikeway will also be in place to connect to Archer Street. 

Read: Heritage-Listed Middenbury House in Toowong May Be Up for Mixed Development

“The proposed development has been architecturally designed to merge seamlessly within the surrounding built form, through the use of a variation of materials and breaks in the façade. The site primarily faces Coronation Drive, which features street tree plantings along its entire frontage as well as two large heritage-listed fig trees near the western boundary.”

“The state heritage listed Middenbury House can be seen from the Archer Street frontage. This development will enhance the view of Middenbury House by incorporating open space between the building and the street frontage. Deep planting along Archer Street will improve the streetscape by softening the view between Middenbury House and the existing streetscape.”

This development does not require public notification and is currently undergoing assessment by Council.