Lewis Land locks in its first land lease community

Australia’s oldest private property developer has secured approval for its over-55s project within its Sovereign Hills master-planned community in Port Macquarie, NSW. 

Lewis Land states the Sovereign Rise over-55s development at Port Macquarie, revealed by The Weekly SOURCE in February, is the first of a new portfolio of land lease projects planned by the group. 

The 135-dwelling Sovereign Rise is part of a $4.5 billion mixed-use development pipeline for the Sydney-based company, which was founded by the late Bernie Lewis in 1957. 

“We’ve invested in leading architecture and urban design to create places exclusively for the over-55s market that feel open, green and connected,” Lewis Land’s Head of Development Michael Long said.  

“That means larger lot sizes, 10-metre boulevard-style streets, extensive landscaping, generous driveways and a mix of two-bedroom and three-bedroom house types perfect for this growing demographic, alongside premium lifestyle and recreation spaces to promote healthy living through community and wellness facilities including resort-style lap pool, bowling greens, pickleball courts, gym, sauna, hot tub, cinema and library.” 

Sovereign Hills is a 2,000-lot master-planned community which has been under development for the past 17 years and is anchored by the Sovereign Place Town Centre. The 350ha development is home to more than 2,500 people, who are also serviced by a school and childcare centres within the project. 

“The inclusion of a premium over-55s lifestyle estate adds further diversity and choice within the masterplan to cater to the growing number of downsizers in the region, who want to retire close to family and social networks,” added Michael. 

“Stage one will commence in early 2026 and will deliver 60 homes and the lifestyle and recreation amenities, which includes a central clubhouse and wellness centre, resort-style pool, bowls green, pickleball courts, cinema and library. Based on the current construction program, we’ll be welcoming our first residents by mid-2027.”