The tallest building in the nation's capital gets the nod, starts construction

The tallest building in the nation's capital gets the nod, starts construction
Alastair TaylorMarch 19, 2018

Move over Woden, here comes Belconnen - Canberra developer Geocon Group has received approval from the ACT Government for its Republic project that is set to be the national capital's largest mix-use development which will also include the new tallest buildings in Canberra.

Construction is set to commence straight away on the $1 billion development which will be delivered over three stages.  According to the project's community consultation site, the three stages will include:

  • Stage 1: 387 apartments and serviced apartments with 118 public car spaces and a level 14 rooftop garden.
  • Stage 2: 188 room hotel with 546 apartments and serviced apartments with 200 public car parks and a public observation level on the rooftop.
  • Stage 3: 283 apartments and serviced apartments with 50 car parks.

Fender Katsalidis and Oculus Urban Planning lead the design & planning team for the project and Abode Hotels will manage the hotel space.

The tallest building in the nation's capital gets the nod, starts construction
Republic in Belconnen. Planning image

What they say

We’re delighted that the ACT Government shares our vision on this project, and of the scope for exciting, well-planned development in town centres.

No-one can accuse Canberra of being boring or stuck in the past with this type of project going ahead. And it’s very, very timely with the rental crisis and our rapidly-growing population.

The 113-metre tower will look completely different to anything else in Canberra, with a 100 percent glazed façade. The amenities are spectacular and the views will be breathtaking

Geocon Managing Director Nick Georgalis

Stage one has already sold 70 percent of its available units and stage two will start an expression of interest campaign in April.

Geocon says the entire development will include terrace houses, an amphitheatre, 'Melbourne-style' laneway shops, boutique office space, climate-controlled wine cellars, a wellness centre, spa, sauna, snow fountain, yoga and meditation spaces, concierge services, a kids wonderland and a landscape sky park with BBQ facilities.

Retail facilities will include a supermarket and the project will have good access to bus services from the nearby in Cohen Street.

The tower which will become the new tallest building for Canberra will rise in stage 2

The tallest building in the nation's capital gets the nod, starts construction
New lanes will be implemented in Republic. Planning Image

Alastair Taylor

Alastair Taylor is a co-founder of Urban.com.au. Now a freelance writer, Alastair focuses on the intersection of public transport, public policy and related impacts on medium and high-density development.

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