Chermside BtR Tower Plans to Target Key Workers

The delivery of key worker accommodation is the focus of plans filed for the latest addition to Brisbane’s rapidly expanding build-to-rent pipeline.

Under the proposal, a tower rising 10 storeys would comprise 226 studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

It is earmarked for an amalgamated 3035sq m site spanning five lots at 10-18 Kelso Street, Chermside, on the city’s northside.

Melbourne-based developer TAL GP Projects is behind the build-to-rent scheme, which has been designed by Telha Clarke Architects.

Its plans replace a lapsed previous development approval comprising two residential buildings—rising seven and nine storeys—with 134 units.

A planning assessment report said the new proposal would provide necessary housing in the area, with a primary focus on key worker accommodation.

“The proposed development will deliver much needed housing supply and key worker accommodation in Brisbane’s northside with proximity and access to key transport corridors and public transport, a major centre (Westfield Chermside), public infrastructure being open space and parkland as well as critical care infrastructure such as Prince Charles Hospital,” it said.

According to the report, the proposal also would “facilitate the redevelopment of an underutilised portion of Chermside, with a development ... providing housing choice and affordability for different socio-economic standpoints in the market on a well-located site”.

▲ Renders of the 10-storey build-to-rent tower proposed for Kelso Street, Chermside.

The planned residential mix includes 60 studio, 107 one-bedroom, 56 two-bedroom and 3 three-bedroom apartments. 

A design statement said the proposal “demonstrates a modern, unique and refined aesthetic approach to a purpose built build-to-rent development”.

As well, it said it had been “intentionally designed to encourage residential engagement with outdoor spaces as well as indoor communal areas providing, co-working spaces, communal gardens and a rooftop that provides outdoor facilities, a pool and a range of recreational spaces”.

Two-and-a-half basement levels would provide parking space for 167 cars and 282 bicycles.

On the city's southside, approval was recently granted for a 12-storey build-to-rent apartment tower comprising 130 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including 15 units designed for residents with a disability.

The proposal by developer Stalcaire is earmarked for 2026sq m on three lots at 62-68 Carl Street, Woolloongabba, across the road from Buranda Village shopping centre and close to the Princess Alexandra Hospital.