Combining social impact with design excellence in Wollongong’s newest residential tower

Northsea by Traders in Purple - Development Consent

In the heart of Wollongong’s city centre, a once-vacant site has been transformed into a vibrant 13-storey mixed-use development, combining 65 residential units with a ground-floor commercial space. Traders in Purple engaged our team to help them secure development consent for this project, which includes a significant affordable housing component delivered under the NSW Government’s Communities Plus initiative.

Our team prepared the statement of environmental effects and supporting planning documentation, guiding the project through a complex approvals process. This included detailed negotiations with council and regional authorities, as well as representation at a local planning panel hearing.

The development blends private, social, and affordable housing—offering flexible dual-key units and rooftop communal spaces—while activating the Crown Street frontage. Despite some challenges and planning constraints, the project now stands as a model for inclusive, sustainable urban renewal and a successful public-private partnership.