Homes NSW social housing development Chester Hill

Delivering housing in challenging times

With Sydney’s housing market one of the most expensive in the world and rental vacancy rates at an all-time low, providing social and affordable housing is a huge priority for the NSW Government.

Drawing on decades of experience delivering complex development projects, RPS’ Sydney project management team has supported Homes NSW to transform an existing government-owned site in Chester Hill into a social housing complex of 19 units.

Putting design and approvals on the right track

The Waldron Road site is close to public transport, with Chester Hill train station only a five-minute walk away. This is perfect for residents, but as with any development that borders a rail corridor the project team had additional approval processes and design considerations to navigate.

RPS' project management team played a lead role in facilitating the design process and securing the additional approvals needed from Sydney Trains. 

This included preparing for the design review that the transport agency would undertake to ensure appropriate construction methodology, acoustic treatments and physical interface between the new building and the rail line. Additional reports (such as an electrolysis study) were also needed, which our team identified and commissioned as required.

Helping the design team to anticipate all requirements before the assessment by Sydney Trains was key to gaining a rapid approval, keeping the development moving forward and costs within budget.

Images courtesy of Homes NSW

Supporting the development of sustainable, liveable homes

In addition to navigating site-specific design considerations, RPS also helped ensure Waldron Road’s apartments and common areas were designed and built in line with Homes NSW’s mission - to deliver safe, stable housing that helps residents lead fulfilling lives.

Accessibility was a key consideration and all apartments were constructed to incorporate Livable Housing Australia ‘silver level’ features. This means they can be easily adapted to meet the needs of senior residents, or people with a disability. The building also achieved a 7.2-Star Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) rating for energy efficiency.

Working on a project that offers such great liveability, adaptability and sustainability outcomes, and reaching practical completion on time and on budget, is something that project managers – and the broader design and construction team – are extremely proud of.

With the Waldron Street development now complete, RPS looks forward to working with Homes NSW on future developments that provide for the community and address housing accessibility issues in Sydney, and beyond.