The cityscape of Wollongong is poised for a dramatic transformation with the unveiling of plans for a colossal half-billion-dollar residential development. The project, slated for the former Bunnings site at the corner of Gipps and Flinders streets, promises to introduce the three tallest buildings in the Illawarra's capital.
A New Vertical Community for Wollongong
The first conceptual image of the proposed development reveals a cluster of six residential towers. Three of these towers would reach 40 storeys, or approximately 140 metres in height, eclipsing the current record held by the under-construction WIN Grand by a single floor. The remaining three buildings are planned to be 27 storeys tall, standing at around 100 metres.
Developer Level 33 has significantly scaled up its original vision for the site. The new proposal calls for 1500 apartments, a substantial increase from the initial 900 units. This ambitious plan could accommodate more than 3000 new residents in the heart of Wollongong, effectively creating a vertical suburb.
To gain access to planning bonuses for increased height and floor space, the developer has committed to including 220 affordable apartments within the complex. The ground levels of the towers are designated for mixed-use commercial and retail tenancies, with a childcare centre also part of the blueprint.
Navigating Planning and Potential Hurdles
With an estimated cost of $500 million, the Gipps Street project dwarfs the $275 million WIN Grand development. Realising this vision will require a rezoning of the land, which is currently designated E3 Productivity Support. An application to amend the Wollongong Local Environment Plan will be submitted to allow for the proposed building heights and a floor space ratio of 4.5:1.
The project's scale is staggering in the context of local housing targets. The 1500 apartments alone would deliver 16 per cent of the 9200-dwelling target set by the NSW government for Wollongong by 2029, assuming the development is completed by that deadline.
A preliminary scoping report argues the project aligns with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan, which identifies metro Wollongong as a prime location for high-density living. The site's proximity to transport, being within 800 metres of North Wollongong railway station, is highlighted as a key benefit.
Views, Process, and What Comes Next
Potential conflict may arise over the towers' significant height and their possible impact on iconic views to Mount Keira. Wollongong City Council, which is crafting a master plan for the Flinders Street precinct, has previously indicated that views to the mountain should be preserved in future developments.
The NSW Housing Development Authority has already reviewed the project, recommending it be assessed as State Significant Development to fast-track the process. The next major step will be the preparation of a detailed Environmental Impact Statement by Level 33.
It remains unclear when construction might begin, as the developer has several other major projects underway in Wollongong, including the Summit on Crown Street and the WIN Grand. The Illawarra Mercury has sought comment from Level 33 on multiple occasions since the proposal first emerged in mid-2024.
If approved and built, this development will not only redefine Wollongong's skyline but also mark one of the most significant injections of new housing—including affordable stock—into the city centre in recent history.
