Addressing priorities
A plaza for the community to connect and socialise
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More than half (61%) of community respondents in Council’s engagement said improving outdoor plazas would make Neutral Bay a more attractive place.
The proposal includes a new public domain via a pedestrian link through the site, which will
create a landscaped outdoor seating area and more opportunities for locals to eat, shop and socialise in one place. The pedestrian link will also activate the side streets – inviting the public into the new space from all directions. Plans will foster a place for gathering and provide public amenity the community deserve.
High quality shops and services locally
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Feedback gathered in Council’s recent engagement shows that the community highly values the existing village atmosphere of Neutral Bay, with restaurants and cafes marked by the community as the most popular places to socialise.
By creating a community-centric shopping experience, the plans intend to create a much-needed expansion of retail opportunities to support population growth in Neutral Bay. Woolworths will be consulting with the community to enhance specific ranges, which has been done in other communities with success.
Place making and outdoor activation​
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Close to half (45%) of community respondents in Council’s engagement would also like to see more community events in the area.
The proposed plaza, close to public transport but set back from Military Road, could be used for such events. Neutral Bay residents would enjoy a new, flexible community space that will also be used for seasonal community events, markets, outdoor activation and performances.
Provide car parking off Military Road
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Almost half (44%) of community respondents in Council’s engagement raised parking as an issue despite there being four public parking garages in the area. Comments Council received noted more parking available under the supermarket while on-street parking adds to congestion.
Our plans include almost 200 more community parking spaces located underground, with additional parking for residents to be determined through the planning process. The new community car spaces will support customers shopping at Woolworths and the new specialty stores, and benefit existing shops and services on and around Military Road.
Enhances the character of Neutral Bay
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Feedback captured in Council’s recent engagement demonstrated the community highly value the existing village atmosphere of Neutral Bay. It was noted all new development should enhance what the community already love.
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Award-winning Koichi Takada Architects has worked with the project team to design a master plan that carefully integrates and enhances the context of the broader neighbourhood by
considering the residential buildings that exist on Military Road. Landscaping is included to create a green buffer set back from Rangers Road.
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The design ensures the new buildings are setback by at least three metres from existing properties and the height steps down to seven storeys toward the residential neighbours.
Improves walkability and pedestrian access
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More than 70% of community respondents in Council’s engagement identified the laneway network in and around Grosvenor Lane, Grosvenor Street and Young Street as their favourite areas in Neutral Bay. More laneway activation was also marked as a priority.
A public domain with retail activation and pedestrian connectivity from Rangers Road to Yeo Street is a focus in Woolworths plans. The proposal will encourage pedestrian access through the area – and strengthen the connections from Military Road to the surrounding residential areas to encourage walkability throughout the neighbourhood.
