An energy company subsidiary is selling several small, unusual blocks of land containing live electricity substations as potential home sites across Sydney’s north shore, including a property in Longueville that has drawn significant community attention.
Unusual Properties Hit Market
Slivers of land measuring only around 100 square metres are being sold in desirable suburbs such as Hunters Hill, Longueville, Willoughby, Mosman, and Chatswood. These narrow lots feature installed active green electricity boxes and legal easements allowing maintenance workers continued access for upkeep and repairs. It is understood an Ausgrid subsidiary is selling the properties, which are zoned R2 for low-density housing, because the energy provider no longer needs them.
Three of the eight sites identified were scheduled for auction over the weekend following the report, while a 101-square-metre Mosman block, marketed as offering “untapped potential”, was set for auction on April 30 with a $475,000 price guide. While official price guides were not issued for most properties ahead of auction, local sources suggested at least one could sell for upwards of $700,000.
Community Voices Concerns
The sales have sparked bemused and angry reactions online. Some community members commenting on social media have labelled the decision to sell the land for housing as “disgusting” and an example of “greed”. Concerns about the possible noise and disruption associated with living next to functioning electricity infrastructure were also raised.
The Longueville listing on Kenneth Street, promoted as a “compact block” offering “endless potential”, attracted particular online commentary, ranging from puzzled to furious responses. One social media user questioned if the listing was a joke, while another expressed dismay, stating, “God they are desperate”.
A frequent point of disappointment raised online was that the small blocks were not being converted into public green spaces or parks for wildlife and local residents instead of being sold for what would likely be very small homes. Humorous comments were also made, ironically referencing the “Australian dream” and joking about potential dangers.
Agent Notes Buyer Interest
While coordinating most of the sales, Belle Property agent Simon Harrison described the sites as “too unique” to easily set a price, stating he had never sold anything comparable. Despite the challenges, he reported the properties were attracting “a lot of interest”, partly because they offered a chance to buy into popular suburbs at a potentially lower price point.
Mr Harrison indicated interest came from first-home buyers and established families looking to build. However, he acknowledged that constructing a home on such small plots would require considerable creativity, likely resulting in smaller one- to two-bedroom dwellings. He also stated that the electricity kiosks do not make noise and are safe.
Strong interest was noted from direct neighbours looking to purchase the land to expand their existing properties. This was reportedly the case for the Hunters Hill site on Foss Street, described as a trickier L-shaped block, and a Lane Cove West site considered potentially wide enough for a driveway.
Published Date 14-April-2025
