INTRODUCTION

MSK Architects has been engaged by a group of property owners

to prepare an architectural concept plan supporting the planning

proposal to increase the maximum density on their land(s). The

growth in demand for additional commercial and retail uses, as

an addition to the need of further development and renovation

of the existing Dural Mall has led to the decision to explore future

opportunities. Based on a thorough feasibility assessment, a

planning proposal  is required to be prepared to provide guidelines

for the future development.

• During the design process one of the key objectives was to

work towards to a development, which is fully compliant with

The Hills Shire Council DCP, SEPP 65 and the Apartment Design

Guide.

• Site-specific controls have been developed to articulate key

development standards, such as density, height, setbacks and

site access points, physical links and visual connections, public

domain and semi-public spaces.

• The proposal provides a possible concept, as guidance on:

▫ setback distances to low density dwellings on Martin

Place, Rosebank Avenue and Frensham Avenue

▫ stepping of massing to low density areas

▫ connectivity and access throughout the center

▫ pedestrian and vehicle movement

▫ loading strategy

▫ central public domain area

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1. Transition of the Heights To Preserve

Existing Character

Through thoroughly designed transition of heights across the entire site, the

proposed redevelopment provides an appropriate scale that is in keeping with

the semi-rural character of the Round Corner / Dural town center.

2. Responding to Existing Topography

The proposed mixed use project is responding to the existing terrain

conditions, using the benefits of the natural topography, it helps to maintain

privacy and solar access to the adjoining land.

3. Enhancing Pedestrian Connectivity

The functional and physical connections to the existing retail and commercial

uses are improved. The new public plaza will establish the new Heart for the

entire Town Centre, providing much shorter and easier access to the remaining

shops and other businesses.

4. Minimising Overshading

The built form has been thoroughly designed to minimise overshadowing to

public domain. This is illustrated by the proposed public plaza,  which provides

good solar access to the residential dwellings, and provides large, livable

outdoor areas for the public and for the residents with deep-soil landscaping,

natural shading, and the possibility of decent size playgrounds, outdoor sport

facilities, and other recreational elements, like pools.

5. Improving Public domain

The proposed development replaces the current council carpark area with a

pedestrian only amphitheater-like public plaza. This elevates the value of the

public domain by providing the public with a vibrant sub-urban town square. This

space acts as a forecourt to the Shopping Centre and to the proposed community

use (like library, exhibition space, etc)          

6. Enhancing View Corridor

Development will maintain vistas and views towards the Blue Mountains, good

ventilation and natural light in an attractive street-scape. This is achieved through

more generously spaced, slender buildings.

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