Freshwater Village could see a major transformation with a proposed $34 million apartment and retail development planned for Lawrence Street.
The project, submitted to Northern Beaches Council, aims to replace the existing shops and offices at 10-28 Lawrence St with a four-storey complex.
Development Details
The proposed development, lodged by Lawrence St Pty Ltd, a company linked to eastern suburbs property developer Robert Burger, includes 30 apartments, nine ground-floor shops, and eateries. The plans involve demolishing the current structures, including the rooftop carpark, and constructing four interconnected four-storey apartment blocks.
The design also includes a 268sq m public plaza facing Lawrence Street, 62 underground parking spaces for shoppers, and 42 for residents. The development application indicates that six apartments will be designated as affordable housing.
Community Impact
The developer’s submission suggests the project will strengthen Freshwater Village’s role as a community hub, providing retail and residential spaces to meet the needs of locals and visitors. The shopping strip has been a topic of discussion for some time, with previous plans to revitalise the area.
In 2019, the previous owner of the block had spoken about investing in upgrades to the shops, offices, and eateries. Before that, in 2012, a development approval for 19 apartments on the site was granted but never proceeded.
Tenant Adjustments
The redevelopment will likely affect current businesses operating in the block, such as Tempo Reformer Pilates, Deep Sea Food, Freshwater Dry Cleaners, Magnolia Homewares, and Ciccia Aperitif Bar and restaurant. Tempo Reformer Pilates owner, Erin Whitbread, confirmed she was aware of the planned redevelopment and has secured a new location for her business.
She stated that while her current location has been good for foot traffic, she anticipated the need to move. Ms Whitbread has relocated across the street to the former Laing and Simmons office at 23 Lawrence St and anticipates other businesses may need to move within the next year. She believes the redevelopment will be a positive addition to Lawrence Street.
Published Date 11-Feb-2025
