A controversial six-storey apartment block is now likely to go ahead on Austin Street, after a punt at selling the site found no suitable buyers.

Developers are now determined to go ahead with a 30-unit apartment block at the end of Westbourne Grove, after a last minute attempt to sell the site was unsuccessful.

The prominent site off Austin Street and backing onto the town belt will see a six-storey complex constructed, aimed at the luxury end of the market, complete with heated swimming pool and underground garage.

The 140-year-old ‘Westbourne’ will be demolished with no resource consent required, as a result of changes to the District Plan that have removed protection for the majority of character houses in Mt Victoria.

Locals opposed to the large development say they are frustrated by the lack of engagement by the developer but have few options to stop the project.

Despite being acquired by developers Forma Group, the large ‘Westbourne’ property at 43 Austin Street next to the town belt was put up for sale through a commercial real estate agent.

However when tenders closed in June, Mark Quinn from Forma Group said there were no ‘suitable offers’ to purchase the property, and that the group now intended to carry on with its development.

The Local is aware that at least one offer to buy the property was made by people in the community.

Neighbours are upset by the proposed size of the development and the impact on the narrow private road, known as Westbourne Grove, that leads to the site.  The road is jointly owned by the property owners that use it.

The developers said the changes made in the District Plan had a bearing on the decision of the developers to go ahead with their plans.

In a letter to Wellington City Councillors, the Forma Group managing director Wilson Quinn said the group was ‘unsure’ about building on the site but ‘revisited it’ after the area was rezoned for high density residential in the new District Plan. 

“The Plan has allowed us to work on a new design with larger living spaces and better use of green areas. 

“At the same time, we’re conscious of the appeal of the surrounding area.  We pride ourselves on the ability of our buildings to compliment [sic] the suburbs they are set in. 

“When building in residential areas, we also take care to talk with nearby residents throughout the process, to find way we can minimise disruption for them during construction.”

Although the existing house is hard to see from Austin St through the large trees that surround it, its elevated position makes it visible from other parts of Mount Victoria.

The company’s website shows a modern multi-level development with large windows and balconies.

Mark Quinn from Forma Group says the images are based on another work in progress that is similar.

The new development will be six storeys high, with around 30 units. Although much higher than the houses around it, it will blend in, according to Quinn.

“Stepped back against the Mt Vic hillside, green-walls and climbing plants will cover the exterior, blending with the bush behind.” 

The development will be aimed at the high end of the market, with three large three bedroom penthouses available in the mix of two and three bedroom units. An underground garage will provide concealed car and bicycle parking for residents.

The building will feature an outdoor heated pool, a wellness area with a sauna and gym, and a summer house with a BBQ and dining table.

“Architects are designing a sustainable development of high-end luxurious and sophisticated apartments, with many of the units featuring sea views,” Quinn said.

“We see potential buyers as being particularly attracted to the relaxed lifestyle and community in Mount Victoria. This executive development offers owners a well-deserved reward in the form of luxurious living and exceptional amenities.”