Controversial $87.5 million seniors housing project in Cremorne recommended for approval.

By ANNA USHER

Cremorne’s contentious Pathways project on Parraween St will undergo a second public exhibition following major changes to its design.

The $87.5 million aged-care development was this week recommended for approval by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure and the Independent Planning Commission.

In a Department report just published, 58 units and a residential care facility with 41 beds will adequately meet the changing needs of an ageing population, while retaining six heritage listed cottages at 78-88 Parraween St.

Totalling 7,353m, the development project is zoned R4 High Density Residential, one block from Military Road.

The original design, largely rejected by the local community, proposed an eight-storey building on Gerard Street, with 31 apartments, alongside two separate four-storey buildings on Parraween Street, offering 27 further apartments. An adjacent residential care facility was also planned to be a four to five storey building.

Speaking to Mosman Collective, Cremorne Conservation Group (CCG) President, Fiona Gracie, said while there is a need for aged-care accommodation on the lower north shore, the proposed Pathways development was “skewed”.

“It has always been our view at the Cremorne Conservation Group, that the Pathways development on Parraween Street Cremorne was skewed to the developer’s long-term profit objectives, with very little provision for public benefit in what continues to be a vibrant commercial and residential area,” Ms Gracie said.

“This development proposal has been ongoing on for many years, starting with the developer attempting to demolish 20 worker’s cottages on Parraween Street.

“As a result of our Group’s pressure, six of these cottages have now been heritage listed and are now planned to be retained and repurposed in the Pathways facility.”

Ms Gracie said the CCG intends to address an Independent Planning Commission meeting scheduled for March 5, “to highlight ongoing key concerns with the development”.

Key Changes to the Proposal

Heritage Preservation: The developer will retain and adapt the six cottages on Parraween Street. The façades and streetscape appearance will remain intact. The interiors will be repurposed for uses such as lounge areas and offices.

Building Height Adjustments: The Gerard Street Independent Living Building has been reduced to 7 storeys, aligning better with neighbouring structures. Rooftop communal spaces have also been removed to reduce bulk and overshadowing.

Improved Public Access: The through-site pedestrian link now includes ramps instead of stairs, ensuring accessibility for all users, including those with mobility challenges.

Landscaping Enhancements: A public park, accessible 24/7, will connect Parraween and Gerard Streets.

Traffic and Parking Changes: The number of parking spaces for Independent Living Units has been reduced from 81 to 77.

Pathways Cremorne: Concept Video

DPHI’s Recommendation

The DPHI recommended approval of the amended project, subject to strict conditions.

It praised the retention of the heritage-listed cottages, reductions in building heights, and improvements to public spaces.

However, the department outlined several conditions, including:

• Appointing a heritage architect to oversee conservation works.
• Implementing a detailed construction traffic management plan.
• Guaranteeing public access to the new green spaces and through-site pedestrian link.

What’s Next?

The IPC has scheduled a public meeting for 5 March 2025. Community members and stakeholders must register by 25 February 2025 to participate.

Following the consultation, the IPC will consider all submissions and expert reports before issuing its final determination.

To register for the Independent Planning Commissions meeting, which will be held at Fred Hutley Hall (200 Miller St, North Sydney) please head HERE.