A 124-unit residential development has been approved in Frenchs Forest, marking one of the first large-scale housing projects in the suburb’s emerging town centre precinct.
Redevelopment Progresses Near New Town Centre
Approval has been granted for a $71 million apartment complex in Frenchs Forest, located opposite Northern Beaches Hospital. The development will comprise 124 apartments across three six to seven-storey buildings and marks a key phase in the broader redevelopment of the area under the “Frenchs Forest Place Strategy 2041”.
The project involves demolition of four existing residential properties along Frenchs Forest Road West and Gladys Avenue to make way for the new construction. It is one of the initial large-scale housing efforts supporting the suburb’s future town centre precinct.
Background and Town Centre Vision
Planning for the Frenchs Forest Town Centre began in 2021, following state-level approval to redevelop the site of the current Forest High School. The strategy aims to deliver approximately 5,360 new dwellings by 2041.
As part of this long-term plan, the town centre will feature 1.5 hectares of new open space, including a 1,665-square metre plaza. Upgrades are also scheduled for local parks—Brick Pit, Akora, and Rabbett reserves.
The Forest High School is being relocated to Allambie Heights, making way for a new urban precinct adjacent to the hospital.
Affordable and Community Housing Inclusions
Out of the total 124 apartments, nine will be allocated for community public housing. An additional 21 will be set aside as affordable housing aimed at essential workers, including hospital and education staff.
In a nearby section of Gladys Avenue, a 55-room affordable housing project has also received approval, targeting key worker accommodation in the healthcare sector.
Sustainability and Urban Integration
Planning documents highlighted the use of energy-efficient materials and a focus on sustainability. The development includes green spaces and pedestrian pathways to create a connected and walkable community.
Its proximity to healthcare, retail, and transport services is expected to improve convenience and reduce reliance on car travel.
Community and Land Use Transition
Part of the newly completed Brickpit Reserve, a 1.3-hectare green space on the former site of a historic quarry, reflects the ongoing transformation of the suburb.
The surrounding precinct has been rezoned to accommodate low and medium-density housing as part of efforts to address regional population growth and housing demand.
Local representatives have noted expected demographic shifts and stressed the need for housing diversity that includes affordability measures.
Next Steps
The residential project is viewed as a critical component of the suburb’s ongoing transformation and will contribute toward housing targets set for the Northern Beaches. Construction will proceed following demolition of the existing homes, with further stages of the town centre to be rolled out over the coming decades.
Published 14-July-2025
