The Illawarra Shoalhaven region has some pretty significant change underway, and at Allen Price, we recognise that this presents exciting opportunities for the development industry. The Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041 outlines strategies (2.1: Activity Nowra City Centre and 2.2: Enhance the diversity and strength of Shellharbour City Centre) to enhance the region’s key city centres, Nowra and Shellharbour, and these plans directly impact the future of development in the area.
Nowra City Centre: A Focus on Revitalisation
Nowra, recognised as the main urban centre for the South Coast, is set to undergo a significant revitalisation. The regional plan highlights several key areas of focus:
Improved Connectivity: A major objective is to enhance connections within the city, linking the riverfront, commercial areas, and key precincts like the Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital. This includes better pedestrian and cyclist access, as well as improved links to Bomaderry via rail. For developers, this signals opportunities in projects that support this connectivity, such as mixed-use developments that integrate residential and commercial spaces within walking distance of key amenities and transport hubs.
Riverfront Development: There’s a strong push to activate the Shoalhaven Riverfront, creating a leisure and entertainment precinct. This could involve developing spaces for restaurants, cafes, and recreational activities, as well as improving access to the river. Developers should consider projects that capitalise on the riverfront’s potential to become a major drawcard for residents and tourists.
Residential Growth: The plan also emphasises increasing infill residential development in Nowra City Centre, with a focus on providing diverse housing options. This presents opportunities for apartment developments and other higher-density housing projects that cater to a growing population and a desire for city centre living.
Shellharbour City Centre: Diversification and Growth
Shellharbour City Centre is also a focus for strategic growth, driven by the expansion of the West Lake Illawarra Growth Area. The plan aims to diversify the city centre’s offerings and create a more vibrant and active hub:
Mixed-Use Development: A key focus is to facilitate higher-density, mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and employment opportunities. This could involve projects that integrate apartment developments with retail spaces, offices, or community facilities.
Night-Time Economy and Smart Work Hubs: The plan specifically mentions exploring opportunities to support a night-time economy and the development of smart work hubs. This suggests potential for projects that include restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, or co-working spaces.
Enhanced Connectivity: Improving access and movement within the city centre and connections to surrounding suburbs is a priority. This includes better pedestrian, cycle, and public transport links, particularly to Oak Flats Train Station. Developers should consider projects that prioritise walkability and integrate with existing and planned transport infrastructure.
Health and Education: Leveraging investment in health and education services is also a focus, with potential opportunities arising from the redevelopment of Shellharbour Hospital.
Key Takeaways for the Development Industry
For land owners and developers operating in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region, the Regional Plan 2041 offers clear guidance and highlights significant opportunities. The emphasis on mixed-use development, enhanced connectivity, and quality public spaces signals a demand for projects that contribute to the creation of vibrant, sustainable, and economically successful city centres. By aligning development proposals with the plan’s objectives, developers can play a crucial role in shaping the region’s future whilst capitalizing on its growth. Allen Price is well-positioned to advise and assist developers in navigating these opportunities and contributing to the positive transformation of the Illawarra Shoalhaven.
