9 April 2026
A development application currently being considered by North Sydney Council could transform a significant waterfront property overlooking Careening Cove. The proposal involves demolishing two existing properties at 171 and 173 High Street, North Sydney to construct a new five-storey, 10-apartment complex on the adjoining sites. This move would result in a reduction in the overall housing stock in the area.
The buildings currently occupying the sites are two-storey brick dwellings originally constructed in the 1930s. The property at 171 High Street is divided into tenanted units, offering 12 one-bedroom apartments. The adjoining 173 High Street matches this configuration, bringing the combined total of current dwellings to 24.
If the development application by Fortis is successful, both buildings would be demolished to be replaced by a new five-storey residential flat building containing 10 apartments. The estimated cost for this redevelopment is $22.397m. Plans for the new complex include basement parking for 15 cars, swimming pools, and a jetty extending onto the cove.
The proposal has already drawn significant opposition from the community. A resident from Elamang Street formally opposed the development, specifically citing concerns about “the size of the proposed building, its height and the fact that it will reduce the number of residences on the site from 12 to 10”.
Furthermore, the Sydney Flying Squadron, which is located across the cove from the site, has submitted an objection concerning the potential building of the jetty. Neighbours from 159, 179, and 181 High Street have also voiced concerns regarding the project’s impact on the street’s character, as well as its effects on views, privacy, and light.