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Byron Shire
June 6, 2026

41 serviced apartments proposed for Jonson St

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Cartoon of the week – 3 June, 2026

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Artists impression from DA 10.2021.291.1.

Plans are now before the public to re-develop two sites across 116 – 118 Jonson Street in Byron Bay, with a combined 4,282m² land holding.

Currently the site is home to the Holiday Village Backpackers.

Developer Podia says it is collaborating with a team of local professionals ‘along with one of Australia’s most recognised architectural firms, Richards & Spence’.

A three storey mixed-use development, including 41 serviced apartments are proposed with the intention delivering ‘an exemplary mixed-use development with a vibrant open central green space that supports the cultural and creative activities that characterise Byron Bay’.

Ground level would, if approved, comprise ‘retail shopfronts and food and beverage tenancies (five or six tenancies in total) surrounding a large communal grassed and landscaped courtyard for use as a sanctuary from the street for all’.

According to www.116-118jonsonstreet.com.au’, One level of underground parking with space for 119 cars plus bicycles, motorbikes and electric charging is proposed. The rooftop would provide for a swimming pool for serviced apartment guests only, private terraces for the third level serviced apartments, the building’s solar array and gardens to capture and re-use rainwater.

‘A predominantly brick materiality is proposed in reference to the Byron Shire’s urban history.

‘Each serviced apartment has been designed for natural light and cross-ventilation, taking advantage of the local climate and reducing dependency on mechanical ventilation. Common lobbies, internal stairs and corridors are open to the elements and have been designed to draw air through openings to maximise natural ventilation throughout the building.

DA 10.2021.291.1 is now on exhibition.



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