Mosman Approves Largest Apartment Development in 50 Years

Eight-Storey Apartment Building, Heydon Street Project, Signals a New Era for Mosman Amid Growing Debate Over Higher-Density Housing Development

An eight-storey building in Heydon Street may be the first of many to come apartment developments in Mosman. 

Until now, Mosman has been seemingly immune to the prolific high-rise developments that have been altering the landscapes of many Sydney suburbs. The leafy harbourside suburb with its serene streets and beautifully preserved heritage homes encircled by manicured gardens felt untouchable. That is now beginning to change.

Developer Abadeen has received conditional approval for an eight-storey apartment building on Heydon Street. If approved, it will be the first major project to be approved in Mosman under the NSW government’s controversial low and mid-rise housing policy. It would also be the largest apartment block to receive the green light in the suburb in more than half a century.

Positioned just 100 metres from Bridgepoint Shopping Centre, the development will feature 27 apartments spread across eight levels, with sweeping north-facing views across Middle Harbour available from the second floor upwards. Designed with affluent downsizers in mind, the boutique project will offer just four apartments per floor, prioritising privacy, natural light and spacious layouts over high-density living. Prices are expected to begin at $1.99 million for two-bedroom residences when sales launch later this year.

The project is being closely watched across Sydney’s property sector, where the NSW government’s low and mid-rise housing reforms are reshaping planning controls in established suburbs near transport, retail and services. The policy aims to increase housing supply in areas traditionally dominated by detached homes, addressing Sydney’s worsening affordability and housing shortages.

Abadeen founder and executive chairman Justin Brown described the project as an example of how thoughtful design could successfully align with the state’s evolving planning framework. 

Abadeen chief executive Joe Tack said the project reflected both the quality of the location and changing buyer demand.

“This is a highly considered site within a highly established local setting, offering elevated views and strong connectivity,” he said. “The project has been designed to respond to that context, delivering a scale and quality of housing aligned with both the planning framework and evolving market demand.” [realestate.com.au]

Yet the development also highlights growing tensions within the community. The state government’s housing reforms have sparked significant opposition in Mosman, where residents have organised petitions against higher-density projects and raised concerns about congestion, neighbourhood character and infrastructure pressure.

In response to locals’ concerns, Mosman Council is currently developing a Masterplan as an alternative to the State Government’s LMR Policy. The Masterplan will take into consideration feedback provided through several community consultation platforms as well as collaborative communications with NSW State Government.

With 13 additional development applications already lodged under the LMR policy, Mosman’s skyline — and identity — may be entering a new era.