Unlocking Affordable Rental Supply with Landcom

Landcom BTR Pilot Case Study

We are proud to partner with Landcom to deliver a transformative build-to-rent development in Bomaderry, NSW. As part of the NSW Government’s build-to-rent initiative, this $35 million pilot project will deliver 60 low-rise apartments designed to offer long-term affordable rental options. Strategically located near Bomaderry station, these residencies will provide easy access to essential amenities like shops, open spaces and public transport, making it a desirable location for future residents.

Tackling the Housing Crisis

This project addresses a critical need for affordable housing in regional NSW, with at least 20% of the units dedicated to key workers and households on low to moderate incomes, such as retail and childcare workers, nurses and teachers. As a landmark build-to-rent development, it will provide greater housing security and affordability, contributing to the long-term housing needs of the Bomaderry community.

Engineering Challenges & Solutions

Our multidisciplinary team, consisting of Civil, Structural, Sustainability Consultants, Hydraulic & Fire, Mechanical, Electrical, Façade and Acoustics engineers, played a crucial role in overcoming the challenges of the project, including:

  • Acoustic Considerations: The local environment presented noise challenges due to a nearby flying fox population. Our Acoustic engineers worked closely with the project team to implement effective noise mitigation strategies, ensuring a comfortable living environment for future tenants.
  • Budget Considerations: Rising construction costs and a constrained budget required innovative engineering solutions. Northrop’s team maximised cost efficiencies without compromising on quality or sustainability.
  • Excavation & Flooding Risks: The site’s high rock levels posed excavation challenges, and the local council raised concerns about potential flooding. Northrop’s civil engineers successfully navigated these obstacles by developing robust, site-specific solutions that balanced safety, buildability and environmental impact.

Collaboration for Success

With a large project team, including partners from St Clair Architecture and Landcom, continuity and communication were key to the project’s success. Northrop ensured this by assigning an internal project coordinator and maintaining consistent leadership throughout the project’s lifecycle.

Sustainability was central to the design, reflecting best practices in environmentally conscious building design. We integrated sustainable principles across all engineering disciplines, ensuring the project aligned with NSW Government sustainability targets and setting a benchmark for future build-to-rent developments.

Community Impact

The Bomaderry Affordable Housing project not only delivers much-needed housing but also enhances community connectivity. With its proximity to transport and local services, the development provides future residents with both convenience and a high quality of life, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.

As trusted engineering consultants, Northrop is proud to support Landcom in delivering this pioneering project that addresses regional housing needs while setting new community building standards.

Partners
Client: Landcom
Architecture and Interiors: St Clair Architecture
Landscape Design: Edmiston Jones
 
Completion: 2026
 

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