Shop-top housing - 120-122 Smith Street, Wollongong

RE: Objection to Development Application

I object to the proposed development and request that Wollongong City Council refuse the application or require significant reductions in the height and scale of the proposed towers.

1. Excessive Height and Departure from Established Character

The proposed towers are significantly taller than the surrounding built form, where development generally does not exceed approximately 16 storeys. The proposal represents a substantial departure from the established character of the area and introduces a scale of development that is inconsistent with the existing urban context.

The proposed height is excessive and will result in buildings that dominate the locality rather than complement it. Such a significant increase in height is inconsistent with the principle of achieving development that responds appropriately to its surroundings.

2. Unacceptable Visual Bulk and Overdevelopment

The proposal introduces excessive visual bulk and massing that will have a substantial adverse impact on the character of the precinct. The towers will be visually dominant from numerous viewpoints and will overwhelm neighbouring development due to their disproportionate scale.

The cumulative effect of the height, bulk and prominence of the towers gives rise to a perception of overdevelopment that is inconsistent with the existing character and amenity of the area.

3. Adverse Impact on Visual Amenity and Outlook

The proposed towers will be directly visible from my residence and will have a significant adverse impact on my outlook and enjoyment of my property.

The towers will become a dominant feature within my primary line of sight and will substantially alter the visual environment currently experienced from my home. Given that the proposed buildings will be taller than any existing structures in the surrounding area, they will create an intrusive and overbearing presence that cannot be adequately mitigated through design treatments or landscaping.

The resulting loss of visual amenity is unreasonable and inconsistent with the planning objective of protecting residential amenity for existing residents.

4. Negative Impact on the Wollongong Skyline

The proposed towers will extend well above the prevailing building heights in the area and will create an inappropriate and visually intrusive element within the local skyline.

The development risks establishing a precedent for future proposals seeking similar departures from the existing built form controls, leading to progressive erosion of the area's character and amenity.

5. Failure to Provide Appropriate Height Transition

A fundamental principle of good urban design is the provision of an appropriate transition in building height and scale between developments. The proposal fails to achieve an appropriate transition with surrounding buildings and instead creates an abrupt and visually jarring contrast with the existing streetscape.

The development does not adequately demonstrate why buildings of this magnitude are necessary or how they contribute positively to the character and liveability of the area.

Conclusion

The proposal will have unacceptable impacts on neighbourhood character, visual amenity, residential outlook and the established built form of the locality. The excessive height, bulk and prominence of the towers are inconsistent with the scale of surrounding development and will result in a visually dominant and intrusive development.

For these reasons, I respectfully request that Wollongong City Council refuse the application or require substantial reductions in the height and bulk of the proposed towers to ensure that any future development is more compatible with the character, amenity and planning objectives of the area.

I wish to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.



1. Visual Impact

The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.

Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.



2. Shadow Impact

A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.

Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.



3. Height Disproportion

At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.

Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.



4. Loss of Escarpment Views

The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.

Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.



5. Negative Precedent

Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.

Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.



6. Impact on Community Amenity

Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:

• Loss of sunlight

• Reduced privacy

• Increased visual bulk

• A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion

These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.



Conclusion

For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

Good afternoon, this submission is to be read in conjunction with submission (SE-130780239) that was lodged on 30 June. This submission requests is a Formal Holding Submission – Objections to DA SSD-122745741 (Keira Place Stage 2, 120-122 Smith Street, Wollongong) requesting a Public Meeting and a hold on any further decisions until a Joint Traffic and infrastructure study hase been undertaken

While I understand the need for additional housing and support sensible development within the Wollongong CBD, I believe the scale of this proposal is excessive and would have a significant negative impact on surrounding residents and the local area.
My primary concern is the proposed increase in building height from the current 24 metres to 103.7 metres. This is a substantial departure from the existing planning controls and would result in a development that is out of scale with the surrounding area. A development of this size would fundamentally change the character of the local area and set a concerning precedent for future developments seeking similar increases.
I live on Level 11 at 20 Belmore Street, directly behind the proposed development site. My apartment currently has both ocean and escarpment views, the proposed towers would introduce a large and visually dominant structure directly in front of my property, resulting in a significant loss of visual amenity and replacing open views with a wall of high-rise development.
I am also concerned about the impact the development will have on privacy. With hundreds of additional dwellings and a building of this scale located so close to existing residential buildings, there will be increased opportunities for overlooking into neighbouring apartments and balconies, reducing privacy for current residents.
Given the location of the proposed towers directly north of my apartment, I am also concerned about the potential loss of natural light and increased overshadowing, particularly during winter. I believe further consideration should be given to the impact on solar access for surrounding residential properties.
Traffic and parking are another major concern. The area surrounding Smith Street and Belmore Street already experiences significant parking pressure due to the number of residential buildings, commercial offices and businesses operating in the CBD. Finding on-street parking is already difficult for residents and visitors.
The proposal includes 391 apartments, 266 co-living dwellings and commercial floor space, yet only 370 parking spaces. In my view, this does not adequately reflect the likely demand generated by a development of this scale. While public transport is available, Wollongong remains heavily reliant on cars for daily use, and the current public transport network does not provide a realistic alternative for many residents. As a result, I expect this development will place additional pressure on already limited on-street parking and contribute to increased traffic congestion in the surrounding area.
I am also concerned about the broader impact on local infrastructure. A development of this scale will significantly increase the local population, and it is unclear whether existing roads, public transport services, public open spaces and community facilities have the capacity to support this growth.
For these reasons, I do not support the proposal in its current form. At a minimum, I believe the height, bulk and overall scale of the development should be substantially reduced to better align with existing planning controls and minimise the impact on neighbouring residents and the surrounding community.

I believe it will have a huge impact on the area. There are already traffic & parking issues for those of us around this project. Significant loss of escarpment views. I purchased my unit in March 2026 and at no time did the selling agents make me aware that this is at all possible, that a new dwelling could be built four times the allowed height in a coastal city Wollongong. I do not believe the state government has taken into consideration the effect this will take on Wollongong, in so many ways. There are already numerous problems here, which is only going to get worse once all this monstrosity happens........

As per the development, there is approximately 550 residential apartments/ co-living dwellings. Of these, I would assume not all single living apartments.

Yet only 370 car park spaces, I believe this is not sufficient to house the residents across these 3 buildings under current development. Leading to increased traffic congestion and parking issues in the area. I would hope that there would be an allocation of at least 1 parking space per apartment.

I wish to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.
1. Visual Impact
The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.
Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.
2. Shadow Impact
A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.
Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.
3. Height Disproportion
At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.
Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.
4. Loss of Escarpment Views
The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.
Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.
5. Negative Precedent
Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.
Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.
6. Impact on Community Amenity
Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:
Loss of sunlight
Reduced privacy
Increased visual bulk
A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion
These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.
Conclusion
For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

I wish to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.



1. Visual Impact

The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.

Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.



2. Shadow Impact

A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.

Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.



3. Height Disproportion

At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.

Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.



4. Loss of Escarpment Views

The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.

Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.



5. Negative Precedent

Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.

Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.



6. Impact on Community Amenity

Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:

• Loss of sunlight

• Reduced privacy

• Increased visual bulk

• A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion

These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.



Conclusion

For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

I wish to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.



1. Visual Impact

The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.

Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.



2. Shadow Impact

A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.

Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.



3. Height Disproportion

At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.

Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.



4. Loss of Escarpment Views

The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.

Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.



5. Negative Precedent

Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.

Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.



6. Impact on Community Amenity

Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:

• Loss of sunlight

• Reduced privacy

• Increased visual bulk

• A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion

These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.



Conclusion

For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

I wish to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.



1. Visual Impact

The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.

Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.



2. Shadow Impact

A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.

Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.



3. Height Disproportion

At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.

Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.



4. Loss of Escarpment Views

The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.

Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.



5. Negative Precedent

Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.

Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.



6. Impact on Community Amenity

Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:

• Loss of sunlight

• Reduced privacy

• Increased visual bulk

• A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion

These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.



Conclusion

For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

I wish to lodge a strong formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its grossly excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.



1. Visual Impact

The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.

Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.



2. Shadow Impact

A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.

Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.



3. Height Disproportion

At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.

Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.



4. Loss of Escarpment Views

The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.

Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.



5. Negative Precedent

Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.

Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.



6. Impact on Community Amenity

Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:

• Loss of sunlight

• Reduced privacy

• Increased visual bulk

• A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion

These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.



Conclusion

For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

I wish to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.



1. Visual Impact

The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.

Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.



2. Shadow Impact

A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.

Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.



3. Height Disproportion

At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.

Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.



4. Loss of Escarpment Views

The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.

Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.



5. Negative Precedent

Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.

Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.



6. Impact on Community Amenity

Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:

• Loss of sunlight

• Reduced privacy

• Increased visual bulk

• A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion

These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.



Conclusion

For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

I wish to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.

1. Visual Impact
The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.
Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.

2. Shadow Impact
A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.
Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.

3. Height Disproportion
At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.
Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.

4. Loss of Escarpment Views
The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.
Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.

5. Negative Precedent
Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.
Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.

6. Impact on Community Amenity
Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:
Loss of sunlight
Reduced privacy
Increased visual bulk
A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion
These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.

Conclusion
For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

As you may know there is a development application for 120-122 Smith Street (behind Collegians Football Club).



The development is for an outrageously high structure (25 storeys) that will have a huge visual and shadow impact on Parq residents and surrounds.



he proposed height is grossly disproportionate to surrounding buildings and sets a negative precedent.



The following Illawarra Mercury article provides more information: https://www.illawarramercury.com.au/story/9290923/wollongong-gasworks-tower-four-times-limit-planned-for-smith-street/



If you'd like to object to the application. you can do so here: https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/search?combine=SSD-122745741



The following is the objection I've submitted. Feel free to copy it, alter it, but please submit your objection by 7 July.



I wish to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development on the grounds of its excessive height, visual dominance, shadow impacts, and the negative precedent it would set for the future character of Wollongong.



1. Visual Impact

The proposed building would be approximately 4 times the allowable height than surrounding buildings. This extreme height disparity would cause the structure to visually dominate the neighbourhood, disrupting the established urban rhythm and overwhelming the existing streetscape.

Instead of integrating into the local environment, the tower would stand out as an isolated vertical intrusion, fundamentally altering the character of the area for all residents who live around it.



2. Shadow Impact

A building of this scale will cast significant and prolonged shadows over nearby homes, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. This will reduce natural light, diminish residential amenity, and negatively affect the comfort and wellbeing of the community.

Given Wollongong’s coastal climate and reliance on sunlight for liveability, this level of overshadowing is unacceptable.



3. Height Disproportion

At 25 storeys, the development is grossly inconsistent with the surrounding built environment. Neighbouring buildings are substantially lower, and the proposed height exceeds what could reasonably be considered compatible with the area’s established character.

Allowing a structure so dramatically out of scale would undermine decades of careful planning intended to maintain a balanced and cohesive skyline.



4. Loss of Escarpment Views

The Wollongong escarpment is an iconic natural landmark and a defining feature of the city’s identity. The proposed tower would obstruct key view corridors, depriving residents and visitors of one of Wollongong’s most valued visual assets.

Protecting these views is essential to preserving the city’s sense of place and natural beauty.



5. Negative Precedent

Approving a development of this scale would set a dangerous precedent for future high‑rise proposals. It would signal that extreme height variations and visually intrusive structures are acceptable, potentially triggering a wave of similar developments that would erode Wollongong’s coastal character and visual appeal.

Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone.



6. Impact on Community Amenity

Residents who live around the site will experience permanent changes to their environment, including:

• Loss of sunlight

• Reduced privacy

• Increased visual bulk

• A diminished sense of neighbourhood cohesion

These impacts are not minor or temporary, they represent a long‑term degradation of local amenity.



Conclusion

For the reasons outlined above, I strongly oppose the proposed 25‑storey development. Its excessive height, overshadowing effects, visual dominance, and obstruction of the escarpment make it wholly unsuitable for this location. I urge the Department of Planning. Housing & Infrastructure to reject the proposal in order to protect the visual integrity, liveability, and long‑term character of Wollongong.

While I support well‑planned, sustainable growth within the Wollongong CBD, this proposal represents a substantial and unjustified departure from the existing planning framework. The scale, height, and density being sought are excessive and would result in significant adverse impacts on the surrounding community.
1. Excessive Height and Density Increases
The proposal seeks to increase the maximum building height from 24 metres to 103.7 metres, and the floor space ratio from 1.5:1 to 4.91:1. This represents an increase of approximately five times the current planning controls.
Such a dramatic uplift is inconsistent with the established planning intent for this precinct and would set a concerning precedent for ad‑hoc upzoning driven by individual development proposals rather than strategic planning.
2. Significant Loss of Residential Amenity
The proposed 25‑ and 30‑storey towers would cause substantial overshadowing and visual obstruction for surrounding properties. For my residence, the development would:
* Remove natural daylight for much of the day
* Obstruct the only remaining view of the escarpment
* Reduce overall amenity, wellbeing, and liveability
These impacts are unreasonable and inconsistent with good urban design principles that prioritise equitable access to sunlight, outlook, and open space.
3. Traffic and Infrastructure Impacts
The development includes 370 car parking spaces, which would introduce approximately 320 additional vehicles onto a narrow local road that already experiences congestion. The adjoining main road is frequently gridlocked during peak periods, and the surrounding network lacks the capacity to absorb this level of additional traffic.
The proposal would exacerbate congestion, reduce safety, and place further strain on local infrastructure without providing meaningful mitigation.
4. Lack of Strategic Need for Additional High‑Density Development
Wollongong is already experiencing significant high‑density growth through multiple major developments located on appropriate strategic corridors. These include:
* A 38‑storey mixed‑use tower on Flinders Street, comprising approximately 270 apartments and hotel accommodation
* The WIN Grand redevelopment, which includes several residential towers within a major mixed‑use precinct
* A 38‑storey shop‑top housing tower on Kenny Street, currently preparing its Environmental Impact Statement
* An 8‑storey mixed‑use development on Smith Street with 145 apartments, already determined
Collectively, these projects represent hundreds of new dwellings already approved or progressing through the planning system. This demonstrates that Wollongong is already accommodating substantial residential growth within appropriate locations. There is no demonstrated strategic need for an additional five‑fold increase in height and density on a constrained local street.

The proposed 25 and 30 storey buildings will impact the local residents negatively. This would be by far, unnecessarily, the tallest building in the area. All other surrounding buildings do not affect the skyline or hinder the view of Mt Keira and Mt Kembla and the escarpment. The proposed buildings would, at a minimum, be double the height. Additionally, it will destroy the skyline of the iconic Wollongong escarpment for everyone. We strongly oppose the 25 and 30 storey buildings.

There is no planned improved infrastructure to enhance the project, currently parking on Smith St is full and it's tight to travel through. Adding 657 units with only 370 parking spots doesn't make sense that leaves potentially 287 cars looking for places to park. There already is a lack of parking around the city, More parking is required having this notion that living in the CBD you don't need a car and you are able to use public transport is unrealistic population is growing but our infrastructure hasn't kept up with the growth.
I would support the project if there's enough parking on site to accommodate the amount of units supplied.

I am writing to object to the proposed development at 120-122 Smith Street, Wollongong.

I am an owner and resident of Unit118, Building B, at 83 Campbell Street, Wollongong. My apartment has a west-facing balcony, towards the beautiful Illawarra Escarpment, which is one of the defining landscape features of Wollongong, enjoyed by residents in the area.

While I recognise the need for additional housing within Wollongong CBD, I am very concerned that the scale and height of this proposed development are excessive and will result in significant adverse impacts on the amenity of neighbouring residents and the character of the city.

My primary concerns are as follows:

Excessive Height and Visual Bulk
The proposal includes towers of up to 30 storeys in height. This is a substantial increase in scale compared to the surrounding developments and would create a dominant skyscaper, which does not fit within or complement the local skyline.

The combined visual impact of three towers of 30, 25 and 12 storeys would result in significant visual bulk and a massive overdevelopment of the site. The proposal risks creating a wall of development that is inconsistent with the existing urban character and scale Wollongong.

Impact on Escarpment Views
The Illawarra Escarpment is a defining natural feature of Wollongong and contributes significantly to the city's identity.

The proposed towers are likely to intrude into and substantially diminish views of the escarpment from surrounding residential developments, including my property at 83 Campbell Street. And essentially any property east of the development. a 30 storey building would be seen from every viewpoint in the city. While I understand that there is no absolute right to a private view, the broader planning objective of maintaining appreciation of Wollongong's unique natural setting should be given considerable weight.

The visual relationship between the city and the escarpment is a key element of Wollongong's character. Development of this scale risks eroding that relationship for existing residents and future generations.

Residential Amenity Impacts
In addition to impacts on views, I am concerned about the cumulative effects of the proposal on neighbouring residents, including:

Loss of outlook and visual amenity.
Increased sense of enclosure due to the scale of the towers.
Potential privacy impacts on surrounding residential buildings.
Potential overshadowing and reduced access to natural light.
Wind impacts associated with tall tower developments.
These impacts should be carefully assessed and minimised wherever possible.

Alternative Design Outcomes
I request that the Department give consideration to alternative design outcomes that would reduce the impacts of the development, including:

Reduced tower heights.
Increased tower setbacks.
Reconfiguration of tower locations on the site.
Greater separation between towers and neighbouring residential developments.
Such measures may allow the site to accommodate additional housing while reducing adverse impacts on the surrounding community.

Conclusion

I respectfully request that the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure carefully consider the cumulative impacts of this proposal on neighbouring residents, the Wollongong skyline, and the important visual connection to the Illawarra Escarpment.

In its current form, I believe the proposed height and scale of the development are excessive and will result in unacceptable impacts on visual amenity and local character. I therefore object to the proposal and request that substantial amendments be required before any approval is granted.

Thank you for considering my submission.

Kind regards,

Tennille Schell
Owner and Resident
Apartment 118, Building B
83 Campbell Street, Wollongong NSW 2500

To Whom It May Concern,

RE: Objection to State Significant Development Application – Smith Street Residential Development

I wish to formally object to the proposed development on Smith Street comprising three residential towers up to 30 storeys in height.

My objection is not to residential development or increased housing supply in principle. Rather, it is based on the excessive scale of the proposal, its departure from existing planning controls and the significant impacts it is likely to have on surrounding residents and the broader Wollongong community.

1. Excessive Departure from Existing Height Controls

The proposal seeks to increase the allowable building height from 24 metres to approximately 103.7 metres. This represents an increase of more than four times the current planning control.

Height limits exist to provide certainty to residents, developers and the community regarding the future character and scale of development within an area. A proposal of this magnitude significantly undermines the intent of the existing planning framework and raises concerns about setting a precedent for similarly excessive departures elsewhere in Wollongong.

While planning controls can be amended where justified, the scale of variation proposed in this instance appears disproportionate and difficult to reconcile with the existing built form of the surrounding area.

2. Impacts on Residential Amenity

The proposed towers, particularly those reaching 25 and 30 storeys, would have substantial visual and amenity impacts on surrounding residents.

Many residents have made significant personal and financial commitments based on the current planning framework and reasonable expectations regarding future development in the area. Towers of this scale would dramatically alter the skyline, visual outlook and character of the precinct.

The proposal would result in an urban form that is substantially larger than what is currently anticipated under existing controls and would fundamentally change the perspective and amenity enjoyed by surrounding residents.

3. Parking and Traffic Concerns

The proposal includes 657 dwellings and co-living homes supported by only 370 parking spaces.

This equates to approximately 0.56 parking spaces per dwelling and raises serious concerns regarding parking demand and traffic impacts.

While proximity to public transport may reduce car dependence for some residents, the reality is that many households in Wollongong continue to rely on private vehicles for employment, education, recreation and daily living. The proposal risks shifting parking demand onto surrounding streets and neighbouring residential areas, creating increased competition for already limited parking resources.

The applicant should be required to demonstrate, through robust evidence, how parking demand generated by the development will be accommodated without adversely impacting existing residents and businesses.

4. Infrastructure Capacity and Community Wellbeing

Wollongong is already experiencing significant growth pressures. Residents regularly experience congestion on local roads, increasing pressure on public transport, and growing demand on community infrastructure and services.

The addition of 657 dwellings in a single development represents a substantial population increase. It is unclear whether existing infrastructure has the capacity to adequately support this level of growth without negatively impacting service levels and community wellbeing.

Before such a significant increase in residential density is approved, there should be clear evidence that supporting infrastructure, including roads, public transport, public spaces, health services and other community facilities, can accommodate the additional demand.

Without corresponding investment in infrastructure, developments of this scale risk reducing the quality of life for both existing and future residents.

5. Community Benefit Does Not Justify the Scale of the Proposal

While the provision of affordable housing and co-living accommodation is acknowledged, these benefits must be weighed against the substantial planning concessions being sought.

The proposed increase in height and density is extraordinary when compared with the existing planning controls. In my view, the public benefits outlined do not sufficiently justify the magnitude of the departure from those controls or the associated impacts on surrounding residents and the wider community.

Conclusion

For the reasons outlined above, I respectfully request that the application be refused in its current form.

Should the proposal continue to be considered, I request that significant reductions in building height, density and scale be required, together with a comprehensive reassessment of parking provision, infrastructure capacity and impacts on surrounding residential amenity.

Thank you for considering this submission.

Yours faithfully,

Scott and Shannah Adam
26 Young Street, Wollongong

Firstly, you do not make it easy to get this far. The process is unwieldy and would turn people away.
I agree we need more housing and that Wollongong needs to share the load. However this, and many similar current and proposed developments along the 'Flinders st precinct' represent an ill-conceived and short-term focused approach. Instead, what we need is a vision for how we want Wollongong to look and feel in the decade(s) to come. This current and other local plans would see a row of gigantic towers (with mostly 1 to 2 bedroom boxes) crammed into a narrow strip of land between the trainline, a flood prone area and an already congested Flinders st and Keira st entering Wollongong. It seems that developers are running the show in Wollongong right now with no guardrails and no regard for what they will leave behind. It is hard to understand or take seriously the proposal for towers of this scale. However I do like the proposal for the lower rise student accommodation on the site!
No consideration seems to have been given to the impact this proposal (and others nearby) will *collectively* have on local infrastructure such as the local primary school, which is full, the local hospital, which is stretched to capacity, the limited public transport, and the already congested roads around this area.
We need a mix of apartments, town houses and green and retail spaces that will create a village and community feel that promotes connection, not an overcrowded wind tunnel of majority 1 bedroom boxes isolating people at 34 floors high. People move to Wollongong for a more relaxed low-rise atmosphere, not to experience the same suffocating overdevelopment that has occurred in inner city Sydney. Yes there is a need for more housing, but please, calm down, show some restraint, and think toward the future. This is not the Gold Coast!