Sydney Water Laboratories

MBM Project Lead

Stoyan Dimitrov

Client Name

Sydney Water

Sector

Utilities

Timeline

2023 - Ongoing

Project Value

MBM Project Team

  • Charmaine Resos
  • Miranda Mai 

Services Provided

MBM is providing cost estimates for the proposed redevelopments.

Project Background and Scope

Sydney Water sought specialised consultants for site investigations, due diligence, and cost estimation for a site options assessment. The project involves redevelopment of Sydney Water’s laboratory facilities at 51 Hermitage Road, West Ryde, due to the existing building’s obsolescence. A preliminary evaluation identified three options: two Sydney Water-owned sites (Hermitage Rd West Ryde and Potts Hill) and the potential leasing of industrial space for retrofitting.

Project Challenges

Complying Development Certificate

  • Limited scope of development and alterations that is identified as complying development
  • Potential extent of works is restricted by the relevant development standards of the Codes SEPP which may misalign with Sydney Water’s operational requirements.

Development Application

  • Longer approval timeframe with a Development Application being required (estimated 2-4 months for approval)

MBM Solutions

  • Early engagement with local council and/or private certifier is critical to determine the fastest and most compliant path.
  • Consider whether exempt development applies for very minor internal works.
  • Engage a planning consultant to help navigate SEPP misalignments and prepare a solid planning justification.
  • Evaluate the use of Review of Environmental Factors (REF) under Part 5 of the EP&A Act if Sydney Water is the determining authority (often faster than DA).