A prominent Sydney developer is threatening to take legal action against planning authorities after its proposal for a 900-home estate in the Hunter region was rejected, despite what it describes as a critical need for housing in the area.
Planning Panel Rejects Major Residential Project
Third.i has resubmitted its application for the Anambah development, located north of Rutherford and Windella, following a refusal by the Hunter Central Coast Regional Planning Panel (HCCRPP) in August 2025. The developer has also signalled potential action in the NSW Land and Environment Court.
Florian Caillon, Head of Acquisitions at Third.i, expressed deep frustration, stating the decision was "completely ludicrous" given the current housing shortage. "We've lost faith in the system," Mr Caillon said, highlighting that ongoing holding costs are impacting the project's financial viability and will ultimately increase costs for future residents.
Council and Panel Cite Numerous Concerns
Maitland City Council, which also declined to support the project, outlined that the HCCRPP provided 20 distinct reasons for refusal. A council spokesperson stated these included non-compliance with planning controls, unresolved traffic and flooding issues, biodiversity concerns, and insufficient infrastructure.
"Overall, the development was considered premature, out of sequence and not in the public interest," the spokesperson said. The council confirmed it is not yet aware of any formal court appeal.
Developer Fights for "Much-Needed Housing"
Third.i acquired the Anambah site in 2023 and had hoped to commence construction this year, with the first residents moving in by 2027. The master plan includes 900 residential lots of varying sizes, with 5 per cent dedicated to affordable housing. The proposal also features significant green space, parkland, and provisions for a future neighbourhood centre and schools.
Mr Caillon strongly refuted the panel's assessment, calling claims that the project was "out of sequence" absurd. "It's astounding that in the midst of a housing crisis, a new development providing quality new homes... in a location that is zoned correctly for residential housing, has been rejected," he argued.
As part of the review process, Maitland City Council will now re-examine its own determination and provide it to the regional planning panel for final consideration.
