Sandgate Road Archives

Massive Automotive Sales Hub Approved for Albion

A large industrial site in Albion is set for a major transformation into a modern three-storey automotive destination that brings vehicle showrooms and service centres together in one convenient location.

A Modern Makeover

A development application has been approved to upgrade a long-standing automotive site across Sandgate Road, Tate Street, and Collingwood Street. Designed by Wim Architects, the project aims to fix the current scattered layout of the area. The plan will turn the site into a “one-stop” precinct for car buyers and owners.

The development covers a massive area of about 11,779 square metres, which spans across 21 different lots. The goal is to move car brands from tight inner-city spots to this larger space where there is more room for traffic and servicing.

Building Details

The new buildings will stand three storeys high, reaching a maximum height of about 14.9 metres. The design covers roughly 69 per cent of the total site. Inside, customers will find modern vehicle showrooms, display areas, and comfortable sales offices with lounges. The facility is built for high volume, featuring 64 vehicle hoists for servicing.

Parking has also been a focus, with 177 single car spaces, 58 tandem spaces, and four spots for people with disabilities. Planners from Ultimate Planning Solutions stated that the design keeps the industrial character of the neighbourhood but improves the look of the street with better landscaping and reduced outdoor clutter.

Construction Stages

The work will happen in two main stages to manage the transition. Stage one involves knocking down the existing Toyota showroom and service buildings to prepare the ground. Crews will then build two new showrooms and a multi-level car park with 129 spaces and 40 service hoists.

The main entry for cars will be off Sandgate Road, with other entrances on Collingwood and Tate Streets. Stage two will see the demolition of the remaining workshops. This phase will add two more showrooms—one multi-level and one standalone—plus a second parking structure with 105 spaces and 24 more service hoists.

Community Impact

The project includes plans to landscape over nine per cent of the site, which planners say will improve the view from Sandgate Road. By moving most of the service functions into screened structures at the rear, the development aims to tidy up the streetscape.

The new precinct is designed to handle modern operational needs, making it easier for locals to buy and service their vehicles without the congestion found in older, smaller locations.

Published Date 16-January-2026

Savour Brunch Bliss at Artie and Mai in Albion

Artie and Mai is a breakfast and lunch spot in Albion, located in a charming heritage-listed building on Sandgate Road. This neighbourhood cafe bar has become a favourite among locals, offering a warm atmosphere, an eclectic menu, and a boutique drinks list.

Read: Exciting New Eatery ‘Sarni’ Set to Open on Racecourse Road

A Menu to Savour

Artie and Mai’s menu features a mix of classic favourites and inventive twists. Brunch lovers flock here for their indulgent French toast with prosciutto, goats’ cheese, cinnamon, and honey, or the highly rated Eggs Benedict, served on sourdough with ham off the bone or smoked salmon. Their house-made banana bread with butterscotch cream is a must-try treat.

Their burgers have received glowing reviews, particularly the Special Smokey Beef Brisket Burger, a standout choice for those craving a hearty meal. Other lunch highlights include deli-style plates, house salads, and salmon baked pie.

The house sandwiches, served with rustic-cut chips and salad, boast unique fillings such as Batlow Cider roasted pork with apple sauce or Lebanese eggplant with blue cheese and cherry tomato chutney. On weekends, gourmet rustic pizzas become a menu favourite, adding to the café’s diverse offerings. Additionally, their apple crumble waffle has become a crowd favourite, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Last year, Artie and Mai expanded their drinks menu with a matcha range, giving tea lovers exciting options like a matcha latte, iced matcha, or even a matcha milkshake. These drinks have been a hit among patrons seeking a delicious and antioxidant-rich alternative.

A Cosy, Inviting Atmosphere

Artie and Mai’s welcoming environment makes it an ideal spot for catching up with friends, enjoying a relaxed breakfast, or indulging in a satisfying lunch. The café’s historic charm, combined with a contemporary and homely vibe, ensures a delightful dining experience. Almost everything on the menu is made in-house—from sauces to pizza bases—ensuring quality and freshness in every bite.

Read: Fire Forces Temporary Closure of Albion’s Amore Venue

Whether you’re in the mood for a signature burger, a refreshing matcha drink, or a comforting brunch favourite, Artie and Mai on Sandgate Road is a go-to destination for great food and a cosy atmosphere.

Published 11-February-2025

Busy Sandgate Road in Ascot Could Soon Have a New Childcare Centre

Photo Credit: DA A006008025/BCC

A three-storey childcare centre could soon rise on busy Sandgate Road in Ascot, on property that used to be a service station.

Dan Band Holdings Pty Ltd lodged DA A006008025 in May 2022 detailing plans to redevelop the demolished service station as a childcare centre with a striking brick design.

The facility has been designed to accommodate 69 kids who will be able to take advantage of six activity rooms, an elevated outdoor play area, and sections of undercover play areas.

Childcare Centre Sandgate road — Photo Credit: DA A006008025/BCC

Urban Strategies helped with the building’s U-shaped layout that provides a piazza at the centre of the property, accessible to all the activity rooms.

“This central piazza areas are seen to be a design which allows for increased interaction of children between play rooms whilst also being respectful of neighbouring properties through orientating a large play area internal to the site and hence minimising any potential acoustic concerns,” the development application stated.

The childcare centre will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during weekdays and will have 14 car parking areas.

However, Council has asked for more information based on the initial assessment, given that the bulk and scale of the building exceeds the low to medium-density residential zone code of the area. The planners have been asked to amend the plans and reduce the building’s height and appearance which should be in line with the streetscape of Sandgate Road.

Sandgate Road — *Photo Credit: DA A006008025/BCC*

In September, the planners filed for a Notice to Stop the Current Period for 130 days to prepare the amended plans.

Meanwhile, the DA has received one submission from a resident opposing the childcare centre.

“I oppose the development as the flow on effect of traffic issues this will cause on both Sandgate Road and Butler street will be extensive. Living on Butler street currently it is almost impossible to get a carpark outside my own house at the best of times let alone during school drop off and pick up (St Margaret’s) and this proposed child care centre will make the situation even worse,” the local stated.