Freshwater
Concept: Creating a light, airy, character-filled three-level Hampton-style beach home on a small corner site
The revised Sydney council regulations affecting residential property and land within the Northern Beaches, North Sydney, Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Willoughby, and Ku-ring-gai councils present opportunities for investors and homeowners to capitalise on their landholdings.
The changes are significant and aim to provide more housing. This means greater flexibility in site planning and expanded development options, such as medium density and dual occupancy, in key areas, particularly around public transport hubs.
Although the regulations appear more relaxed on the surface, taking advantage of these changes requires professional oversight. Any submission requires a properly investigated and documented strategy with a thorough understanding of compliance. It is also critical to ensure sufficient due diligence and a feasibility study to ensure your idea is financially sound and will benefit your intended goals.
"What was once considered a single-home site may now be a canvas for multi-dwelling opportunity."
Our development consultancy services
Our team has worked closely with the northern councils of Sydney for many decades. Over time, we’ve built strong relationships and have a thorough understanding of how each council manages its residential planning applications. There are various nuances between each catchment and there is no one size fits all formula.
Our development consultancy service mitigates guesswork. It is designed to guide you through the positives and challenges of developing your existing land parcel or purchasing and developing a site within the nominated councils. We take a holistic approach and leverage our in-house expertise across all aspects of residential development and our experience working with each council.
"Our consultancy eliminates guesswork — replacing it with grounded, actionable intelligence."
Below is what our process typically entails:
Step one – Consultation and briefing
The initial step is to understand your site, your development objectives, timeframe and budget. This information will form the foundation for any strategy as we move the project forward.
Step two – Site analysis
Our site analysis is essential in unearthing opportunities. We undertake detailed research of the proposed site, its current and potential zoning controls, the site topography, access and existing and proposed services. We identify development possibilities within the latest Local Environment Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs) frameworks to determine development capacity and risk assessment before you commit.
Step three – Feasibility and planning advice
Our team and other specialist consultants develop concept options offering advice on the optimal planning path and detailed cost estimates and expected yield estimates. Ensuring your project is economically sound and meets compliance requirements is an essential step in our development consultancy service.
With our guidance you’re fully aware of the development options for your site, with cost and yield estimates and timeframe expectations. This enables you to make informed decisions based on actuality rather than speculation.
Once this process is complete and you’ve settled on a way forward, our team would be delighted to manage the project on your behalf. Playoust Churcher Architects is an end to end provider of elite residential developments, new builds and renovations. Our experience on Sydney’s North Shore is an invaluable asset and we share the same passion and commitment to the area as our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of developments are now permitted under the new zoning changes?
Many Sydney councils now allow for medium-density housing, dual occupancies, and townhomes — particularly near transport hubs. Permissibility depends on zoning, site features, and local controls.
Can I develop my current Sydney residential home into multiple dwellings?
Potentially yes, but it depends on zoning, lot size, access, and other constraints. A detailed feasibility study is essential before proceeding.
What’s the difference between an LEP and a DCP?
The Local Environmental Plan (LEP) sets legal planning controls, while the Development Control Plan (DCP) guides design and built form. Both are critical to your development strategy.
How long does the development application (DA) process take?
Timelines vary within the North Sydney councils, but with a proper pre-lodgement strategy and council coordination, most residential DAs are assessed within 8–12 weeks post-lodgement.
Do you manage the build phase as well?
Yes, we offer full project management — from design through to build — including tendering, documentation, and builder coordination.
Key Takeaways
Recent zoning changes in the Sydney North Shore create new development potential for existing landowners.
Each Sydney council — North Sydney, Lane Cove, Ku-ring-gai, Hunters Hill, and Willoughby — has unique planning interpretations.
A successful submission requires site-specific due diligence, feasibility analysis, and planning expertise.
Our firm provides a comprehensive, end-to-end consultancy — from initial concept to project delivery.
Recent projects
Killara Heritage
Concept: Adapting a beautiful family heritage home in a quiet street on a large site to suit the family’s lifestyle
East Lindfield
Concept: Designing a new family home that maximises the views and introduces a sense of open space
Lindfield Heritage Home
Concept: A complex yet successful renovation of this stunning heritage home in a conservation area
Castlecrag
Concept: A 1970s build transformed into a bright, open design maximising stunning harbour views
Chilton Parade, Warrawee
Concept: A complete rebuild of half the property over two levels, whilst also incorporating the property next door
Palm Beach Renovation
Concept: A majestic holiday home that pushes the design envelop, blending sustainable materials and natural light
Arnold Street Killara
Concept: A major ground floor renovation of a large estate with a new three-car garage and 14 metre pool
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We live and work on the lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. We acknowledge their traditional custodianship of the land and pay respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.