An artist’s impression of Portella apartments. Photo: Supplied.
Shell Cove’s apartment boom shows no signs of slowing, with the newly launched Portella building already more than 60 per cent sold just months after hitting the market.
The strong demand is the latest sign the waterfront precinct is entering its final phase of development — as construction crews prepare to move in and buyers continue to snap up marina-side living.
Richard Crookes Constructions has been appointed as the builder to construct Portella’s mix of 88 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with construction set to begin in the first half of this year for an estimated 2029 completion.
Frasers Property Australia development director Mathew Gulliver said the success of Portella since launching in October reflected its design, quality and location at The Waterfront, Shell Cove, but also the most competitive pricing offered within Shell Cove for some time.
“Buyers have recognised the quality, amenity and location offered by Portella as both great value and a fabulous opportunity to put down roots within one of the South Coast’s most desirable new communities,” he said.
Richard Crookes Construction Sydney and Major Projects general manager Grant D’Arcy said its partnership with Frasers Property Australia to bring Portella to life was building on the successful delivery of Soul Residences and ongoing engagement at Treehouse at Midtown MacPark in Sydney’s north-west.
“Informed by strong market insight and a commitment to local procurement, this project reflects a shared focus on delivering high-quality residential outcomes that support the regional community’s growth and long-term liveability,” he said.
Remaining Portella apartments are priced from $1,030,000 to $1,480,000 for a two-bedroom, and $1,800,000 to $2,105,000 for a three-bedroom.
Those wanting to move into Shell Cove this year can still grab a harbourfront apartment within the nearby Vela, with its facade in the process of being unveiled as scaffolding comes down.
Set for completion in the second half of the year, Vela features 57 two- and three-bedroom harbour-facing apartments with only a walking path and grassed nature strip separating the building from the waterfront.
Another view of Portella apartments. Photo: Supplied.
A 15 m marina-facing heated pool, gym, communal garden and lounge and dining room for hosting friends and family rounds out Vela’s impressive offerings.
Downsizer Fran Nelson will be moving into one of the two-bedroom apartments within Vela later this year and was looking forward to experiencing her generous 10 m by 3 m private balcony overlooking the marina.
“The view will be private and that really appeals to me,” Fran said.
“My late husband was a sailor so I’m very attracted to the harbour.
“And the balcony is a big asset — it’s massive. It will be like having a second living room with lots of fresh air.”
Remaining Vela apartments are priced from $1,695,000 to $2,175,000 for a two-bedroom, and $2,195,000 to $3,195,000 for a three-bedroom.
Adding to the diversity of housing options available within Shell Cove are land lots located in a prime spot between the harbour and the white sands of Shellharbour South Beach.
It connects to the beach via new walking paths, while boardwalks and promenades lead through to the Shell Cove town centre.
Land lots range in size from 450 sqm to 723 sqm and in price from $1,645,000 to $3,150,000 for a harbourfront lot.
More than 60 per cent of the land lots have already been sold, with strong interest continuing as Shell Cove moves into its final stages of development following the completion of the harbour, marina, town centre and surrounding public spaces.
The five-star Crowne Plaza Shell Cove Marina hotel is due to open this year, two new pedestrian bridges are set to open in April linking Mary and Sophia streets in Shellharbour Village to Shell Cove, and work is underway on Sophia Park, which will feature a community garden, playground and multiuse recreation spaces.
