Nine Network's redevelopment plans for Willoughby site "chugging along"

The $233 million redevelopment plans for the Nine Networks headquarters in Willoughby are "slowing chugging away through the process" as the broadcasting giant seeks to adapt to the evolving world of media and move out of the suburbs.

The proposed development of the site is causing a stir among the Willoughby council and local residents.

''The large number of dwellings proposed is likely to have a significant impact on surrounding residents, as well as the Willoughby community in terms of traffic movement and increased demand on public facilities, particularly schools which are already overcrowded,'' said Willoughby Mayor Pat Reilly.

"Having talked to local residents, it is clear that many members of the community are aware of the enormity of the development and its potential impact on the community, while those who have viewed the plans are very concerned," says Reilly.

The proposed plans were available for public viewing at Willoughby Council until May 17 and submissions in regards to the proposal were encouraged.

If more than 25 submissions were received during the public exhibition period, the Concept Plan Aplication would be required to be determined by the NSW Planning Assessment Commission.

Scott Soutar of Nine Network confirmed to Property Observer that there were over 25 submissions and a community briefing is likely to be held.

"The proposed development is just chugging away through the process," says Soutar.

Other broadcast networks such as the Seven Network, Ten Network and the ABC have all relocated their operations from suburban locations to inner city suburbs such as Ultimo, Pyrmont and Eveleigh.

The former Seven Network studio in Epping has since be redeveloped into an 800-dwelling residential development.

Nine Network has produced and broadcasted from its Willoughby campus since 1956.

The proposed redeveloped of the 2.9-hectare site on Artarmon Road comprises of a mixed-use development of predominately residential and a little bit of retail.

The preferred proposed development comprises of six residential flat buildings of 14 to 18 storeys and 25 terrace dwellings – a total of 600 dwellings.

The dwellings will consist of studios and one-, two-, and three-bedroom flats.

The development originally proposed towers up to 20 storeys, however the Department of Planning and Infrastructure had concerns in February 2011.

The Department of Planning and Infrastructure also had concerns about the impact of potential electromagnetic radiation from the existing telecommunications tower, which is owned by Nine, Ten and Seven Networks and is still operational.

The Lend Lease development will join forces with architects SJB and landscaper Jane Irwin.

50% of the proposed development is to be dedicated to communal and public open space, including a village square.

Willoughby is located 3.2 kilometres from North Sydney.