One of the most significant urban renewal projects in the Bayside area is forging ahead with works officially commencing at the former-CSIRO site in Highett.

Located on Graham Road and spanning 9.63-hectares, the site is set to be transformed into a $500 million plus mixed-use project by local and privately owned developer Sunkin Property Group.

Following the nod of approval in March from the Bayside City Council, Sunkin has appointed Delta Group in a multi-million dollar contract that will see the civil contractor commence a 12-month program from early October.

Over $10 million will be invested in infrastructure for the large-scale project including new roads, replacement of the Melbourne drain and the upgrading of local services over the next year.

Sunkin Property Group’s General Manager of Property Lloyd Collins said commencing civil works is a significant milestone for the project, with the site having remained dormant for over a decade.

“This development will be of significant community benefit due to improved infrastructure and additional amenities, including the new park and conservation area for the public to enjoy.

“It will also provide greater housing diversity while catering to the forecast population growth within Melbourne and the Bayside area more specifically,” he said.

Delta Group’s Founder and Managing Director, Con Petropoulos, is looking forward to being an integral part of the delivery of this project.

“Delta Group is extremely proud to partner with Sunkin by setting the groundwork, road and services infrastructure for this significant community development. Delta Group is excited to get started and take part in reviving this Bayside site.”  

Sunkin’s vision is to create a vibrant, multi-generational community that will see a series of distinct yet interacting precincts providing a range of dwelling types including apartments and townhouses, with over 1,000 residences earmarked for the site.

Not merely a set of dwellings, the masterplanned community will gift over 40 per cent of the site back to the community, with one hectare planned for a public park and a further three hectares for a conservation reserve. The park will feature a children's playground and social areas, which will be available for all community members to enjoy.

Central to the development is its focus on connectedness and walkability, with common and public spaces between the built form providing opportunities for neighbours to connect. This is further enhanced via integrated wellness and fitness facilities including resident’s gym, pool and spa areas. A new public library is also proposed to be provided onsite for the benefit of the wider community.

Of note is the project’s commitment to a low-carbon economy, with Sunkin targeting net zero capable outcomes through environmentally sustainable design practices. 

Earlier this month, Sunkin lodged a Planning Permit Application for Stage 1 of the project which includes two apartment buildings and a collection of townhouses, all located adjacent to the proposed public park and serviced by the infrastructure works.