A prominent Melbourne industrial landmark could be home to more than 260 build-to-rent apartments under new plans for the former Australian Liquorice Company factory site.
The 7309sq m site at Brunswick, 5km from the CBD and next to Brunswick railway station, has also been a boxing stadium, carnival ground and Salvation Army mission.
In 2017, Banco property group acquired the land for $25.5 million, before adding an adjacent parcel, at 368-370 Victoria Street, it picked up for $1.5 million in 2018.
A VCAT-approved planning permit for 158 apartments and commercial space was issued the same year.
In 2023, property developer Assemble acquired the site.
deferred the original development and submitted revised plans that increased housing stock by 80 per cent while reducing commercial space by 60 per cent.
According to project monitor BCI, the revised $93-million development would comprise four buildings from three to 10 storeys. Development approval of the new plans was granted this month.
The plans show 268 homes—19 studio, 83 one-bedroom, 131 two-bedroom, and 35 three-bedroom apartments.
The precinct, designed by Fieldwork Architects, would also include a 1400sq m public plaza, 5125sq m of commercial space with up to eight retail tenancies covering 1693sq m, and 13 offices over 3981 square metres. There would also be two basement levels with parking for 91 vehicles and 518 bicycles.
According to reports, up to 60 per cent of the homes would be offered as affordable rental housing. Tenants would have the option to acquire properties under Assemble’s ‘build-to-rent-to-buy’ model, backed by Australian Super.
Assemble managing director Kris Daff said the “proposal is simple—it’s about putting roofs over people’s heads. We’re looking forward to getting on and starting this one early next year”.
The project would preserve the site’s heritage-listed brick chimney and associated firebox, integrating them into the new development. Two Victorian-era terrace houses with local heritage significance would also be retained.
According to BCI, Australian Licorice Company Pty Ltd is listed as an additional developer. Hacer Group would be the main contractor on the $93-million project. Armitage Jones is listed as project manager.
The development would enhance accessibility to Brunswick Railway Station and expand the Upfield Bike Path, promoting pedestrian and cyclist connectivity throughout the area. Construction is expected to begin next year ahead of completion by the end of 2027.
Assemble’s build-to-rent-to-own development at 15 Thomas Street, Kensington is 70 per cent allocated, while its project at 4 Ballarat Street, also at Brunswick, is slated for completion in 2024. Three more are tipped for completion by the end of 2027.
Assemble was contacted for comment.
