In a significant move for Wollongong's city centre, developer Blaq Projects has submitted revised plans to substantially expand its already approved mixed-use tower on Kenny Street.
Major Height Increase for CBD Complex
The fresh development application proposes adding six additional storeys to the previously approved building, which would elevate its total height from 18 to 24 levels. This substantial modification positions the development between the intersections of Burelli and Ellen streets, creating a more prominent presence in Wollongong's central business district.
This strategic expansion directly leverages two key policy changes: the NSW Government's affordable housing incentives and Wollongong City Council's recently adopted hotel accommodation strategy. By incorporating affordable housing units, Blaq Projects qualifies for the state's height bonus provision, while the increased hotel room allocation supports the council's tourism objectives.
Affordable Housing and Hotel Room Boost
The additional floors would introduce 41 dedicated affordable housing units to the development, addressing critical housing diversity needs within the CBD. According to the application's statement of environmental effects, these dwellings will be managed by a registered community housing provider, ensuring they serve key workers and households with low-to-moderate incomes.
Simultaneously, the hotel component would grow from 107 to 140 rooms, with the podium structure increasing from four to five storeys to accommodate the expansion. New guest amenities including a hotel bar and gym are planned for level one, designed to interface with existing outdoor areas while operating within approved hours to minimise impact on neighbouring properties.
Comprehensive Development Changes
The revised proposal brings multiple enhancements beyond the height increase. The number of standard residential apartments would jump by 59, moving from 105 to 164 units total. Below ground, the development would gain 64 additional car parking spaces to support the increased density.
A traffic assessment submitted with the application indicates minimal disruption to surrounding roads during peak periods. The study projects an additional 34 trips per hour during morning peaks and 22 trips per hour during evening peaks, describing the impact as "minor but no noticeable" on intersection performance and local amenity.
The development application remains on public exhibition until December 10, 2025, providing community members opportunity to review and comment on the substantially revised project that promises to deliver both affordable homes and enhanced tourism infrastructure to Wollongong's city heart.
