Sunkin begins works on $500m Highett urban renewal project

Sunkin Property Group has commenced works on one of the most significant urban renewal projects in the Bayside area.

The 9.63-hectare former CSIRO site in Highett will become a $500 million plus mixed-use community with over 1,000 residences, a mix of apartments and townhouses, and a new public library.

Over 40 per cent of the site will be given back to the community, with one hectare planned for a public park and a further three hectares for a conservation area. The park will feature a children's playground and social areas.

Central to the development is its focus on connectedness and walkability, with common and public spaces between the built form providing opportunities for neighbours to connect. This is further enhanced via integrated wellness and fitness facilities including resident’s gym, pool and spa areas.

Over $10 million will be invested in infrastructure for the large-scale project including new roads, replacement of the Melbourne drain and the upgrading of local services over the next year.

Following the nod of approval in March from the Bayside City Council, Sunkin has appointed Delta Group who will begin a 12-month program starting from early October.

The Sunkin and Delta team's turning the first sod at the site. Image supplied

Sunkin Property Group’s General Manager of Property Lloyd Collins said commencing civil works is a significant milestone for the project, with the site having remained dormant for over a decade.

“This development will be of significant community benefit due to improved infrastructure and additional amenities, including the new park and conservation area for the public to enjoy.

“It will also provide greater housing diversity while catering to the forecast population growth within Melbourne and the Bayside area more specifically,” he said.

Sunkin is targeting net zero capable outcomes through environmentally sustainable design practices at the project.

Earlier this month, Sunkin lodged a Planning Permit Application for Stage 1 of the project which includes two apartment buildings and a collection of townhouses, all located adjacent to the proposed public park and serviced by the infrastructure works.