Challenge

Ulladulla, like many regional areas in Australia, is facing a housing crisis. A lack of affordable housing leaves essential workers and low-income residents with limited options. Aging residents seeking to downsize also face supply shortages. During summer, accommodation demand is heightened by short-term holiday rentals and seasonal workers. Compounding the issue, the low-density guidelines of the 1996 Milton Ulladulla Structure Plan have restricted the development of higher-density housing, making it more challenging for developers to meet the region’s growing needs.

Solution 

Across many regions, outdated council policies and plans pose a hurdle to housing growth. Sites such as 131 St Vincent Street require a ‘spot rezoning’ application which adds additional complexity to the gateway approval process.  SMEC played a pivotal role in helping the developer, The Fleming Group, navigate this challenging planning environment. Working alongside Cox Architecture, SMEC led the planning proposal to rezone 131 St Vincent Street from General Industrial to Mixed Use.

The site master plan features four mixed-use buildings comprising 182 residential units, with fifty apartments allocated as affordable for essential workers. Commercial spaces, cafés and a childcare centre will enhance the site’s value as a mixed-use community hub.

Impact

SMEC secured a conditional Gateway Approval in just seven months. The proposal increases building height limit to 21 metres with a floor space ratio of 3:5:1, optimising building density and scale in the proposed precinct. By addressing critical housing shortages and providing affordable options for essential workers, the project is set to make a meaningful impact on the local economy and liveability within the wider Shoalhaven region. SMEC’s expertise in navigating complex planning frameworks has ensured that much-needed urban renewal can move forward.