The NSW Independent Planning Commission has approved the construction and operation of a $113 million, 34-storey mixed-use building in the City of Parramatta local government area in New South Wales.

The Novus Build-To-Rent project, located at 39-43 Hassall Street, Parramatta, will consist of 210 rental apartments, retail and commercial areas, and three basement levels.

The development will be managed as build-to-rent accommodation for its entire lifespan.

The Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure completed a whole-of-government assessment of the proposed development in December 2023.

As the City of Parramatta Council objected to the project, the commission acted as the consent authority.

The commission’s three-member panel, including Wendy Lewin (Chair), Richard Pearson, and Michael Wright, conducted a site inspection, met with key stakeholders, and considered 18 written submissions.

Independent expert advice on flood-related risks was also sought.

After careful consideration, the panel has determined to grant development consent to the project, citing its strategic justification for contributing to housing supply and diversity.

To address concerns raised by the Council and the community, the commission has imposed conditions of consent to prevent, minimise, and manage potential issues.

These conditions include ensuring flood safety for future occupants, obtaining independent engineering advice to confirm the building’s ability to withstand a probable maximum flood event, and developing a detailed Flood Emergency Response Plan.

The conditions also aim to prevent, minimise, or offset adverse environmental, social, and safety impacts, set standards for acceptable environmental and safety performance, require regular monitoring and reporting, and provide for ongoing environmental management of the development.

All documents related to the assessment and determination of the Novus Build-To-Rent project can be found on the commission’s website.