Planit Consulting has proudly partnered with Tower Holdings on Harvest Estate, a landmark project setting a new benchmark for sustainable community living in Byron Bay.
Since 2016, Planit has been embedded in every stage of Harvest Estate’s journey, providing a full-service offering that includes town planning, engineering design, project management, ecology, and contract administration. It is one of the most comprehensive projects undertaken by Planit, utilising expertise from across all disciplines.
Harvest Estate is the first major land release in Byron Bay in over 35 years, transforming 150 acres of formerly degraded farmland into a thriving, environmentally conscious neighbourhood. The project delivers 149 residential lots supported by more than 44,000m² of new public open space, 1.8km of cycle and pedestrian pathways, and a new outdoor fitness park.
Planit was initially engaged following a competitive tender to provide the full scope of urban, regional, and environmental planning services. As the first subdivision application within the West Byron Urban Release Area (WBURA) – a State-led initiative – Harvest Estate has played a pivotal role in progressing the area as a viable urban release. Our application process drove critical outcomes, compelling Council to proceed with necessary access upgrades and to prepare a Development Control Plan (DCP) for the broader WBURA precinct.
Harvest Estate was delivered in the absence of a formal DCP, with Planit navigating complex challenges by working closely with Council, community stakeholders, and environmental agencies. A Biobanking Statement was secured to manage environmental offsets and rehabilitation, ensuring that no encroachment occurred onto E2 Environmental Conservation land. In total, 11.76 hectares have been dedicated to environmental rehabilitation.
Stage 1 of the project, comprising 55 residential lots ranging from 450m² to 900m², was completed in November 2023. The market response has been overwhelming, with 50% of lots sold within two months of launch.
Harvest Estate was recently recognised in the 2024 UDIA NSW Awards for Excellence, winning the Residential Subdivision category and becoming a finalist for Regional Development. This award recognises the project’s success not just in addressing Byron Bay’s acute housing shortage, but also in setting a new benchmark for collaborative, environmentally responsible development.
