The Site
Block 14 Section 45 (the site) is located within the Belconnen Town Centre and is in close proximity to Belconnen Westfield, Belconnen Fresh Food Markets and University of Canberra.
The site has an area of approximately 6,602m2 and is bounded by Cameron Avenue to the north and Eastern Valley Way to the east. The site is currently used as an at-grade car park with access off Cameron Avenue.
Project Team
NDH has engaged Stewart Architecture and Purdon as part of the consultant team for the redevelopment of this site. Stewart Archiecture was also the architect for the Linq Stage 1 redevelopment.
The Proposal
The proposal is for Stage 2 of the Linq redevelopment which is a mixed-use residential and commercial development on Block 14 Section 45 Belconnen.
This community consultation is in relation to Stage 2A of Linq redevelopment, with 2B to be delivered at a later stage.
The redevelopment includes the demolition of all existing structures on site and the construction of 2 buildings spanning 19 and 27 storeys, with associated 3 levels of basement car parking and under-croft car parking.
The buildings consist of commercial use on the ground floor level and approximately 285 residential on upper levels, with communal gardens and associated amenities.
Vehicle access is achieved through an extended internal driveway (Veryard Lane) off Cameron Avenue, with a potential access proposed off Eastern Valley Way to evenly distribute additional traffic flow generated by the proposal.
The proposal intends to enhance the immediate area with the provision of active frontages, public space, and landscaping. A pedestrian plaza and shared gardens are proposed on site and will be made available to the public.
Sustainability is at the forefront of both schemes (2A and 2B). Sustainable measures are incorporated in the design, with the precinct being landscape orientated with extensive deep rooted planting.
The project architect proposes a design that avoids overheating and minimising the use of air conditioning. Recessed balconies/living rooms will be extended to the façade to maximise solar access. An active travel hub is also proposed at the ground floor for bikes and scooters.
Statutory Planning
The subject site is located within CZ2 – Business Zone, which permits the proposed uses.
While the details of the design are still being finalised, the overall concept is considered to be consistent with the various applicable Territory Plan Codes. The relevant Codes include the Belconnen Precinct Code, Commercial Zone Development Code, Multi-Unit Housing Development Code, and the general codes where applicable.
As detailed below the proposal responds well to the overall objectives of the CZ2 Business Zone, which are to:
a) Provide for office and business sites that are accessible to public transport and convenience retailing and services
b) Provide a diverse range of accommodation sizes and locations for offices close to the retail core
c) Encourage provision of convenient outlets for goods, services and facilities to meet the needs of the workforce
d) Create vibrant lively pedestrian routes and public spaces
e) Ensure a high quality urban environment through use of sustainable design and materials and maintain a high level of amenity for employees and the public
f) Promote active living and active travel
g) Provide a high quality public realm by facilitating active uses on ground floor level that connects with the wider open space, pedestrian and cycle networks to promote active travel and active living.
h) Encourage an attractive, safe, well-lit, and connected pedestrian environment with convenient access to public transport
Consultation Plans
Plans are available for download via the below link. Please note that these plans are a work in progress and may be subject to minor changes following this consultation process and through the detailed design development stage.
National Capital Design Review Panel Advice
As per the Pre-DA Community Consultation Guidelines, developments that are required to consult with the NCDRP must undertake this prior to Pre-DA community consultation.
The NCDRP comments must also be presented to the community during consultation. These comments will be uploaded once made available.
Project Timeframe
Purdon is aiming to lodge a DA for this proposal in the coming months. Construction works related to the construction of new buildings will begin once approval has been granted.
Opportunities for Community Input/Feedback
Purdon will be undertaking community consultation on behalf of the Proponent, commencing Friday 28 July until Friday 18 August 2023.
The project team will be holding two online information sessions as follows:
- Session 1: Wednesday 2 August 2023 starting at 5:30pm
- Session 2: Tuesday 8 August 2023 starting at 3:30pm
To register for a session please complete the below webform or email us at engage@purdon.com.au and state “46 Cameron Avenue” in the email title and include which session you would like to attend.
A Microsoft Teams meeting link will be emailed to those registered the day prior to the session.
The project team will also be contacting various community groups to ensure their members and other interested persons have the opportunity to provide comments prior to the lodgement of a Development Application.
Further Information
If you would like further information or wish to discuss the Proposal, please do not hesitate to contact Purdon on:
(02) 6257 1511
Or use the ‘have your say’ form below to provide comments.