THE developer of a proposed 41 dwelling development in Wallan has defended the project, which has raised concern for several district residents.
The proposed development has received multiple objections from residents relating to increased noise, traffic, changed atmosphere and privacy.
Melbourne-based architectural and strategic project management consultancy, Bornova Projects, lodged an application for development of 141 King Street in early August.
A Bornova Projects spokesperson defended the project and clarified some details about the development last week.
He said the development proposal is in line with the Mitchell Planning Scheme which encourages the provision of affordable housing, housing to suit smaller or ageing households and compact housing.
“Wallan is identified as a growing commuter town and increased housing development within Wallan accords with the policies of the Mitchell Planning Scheme,” he said.
“Unlike Farming, Rural, Conservation or even Low density Residential Zone, this area is zoned Residential 1 and is not designated for low density living.”
He said the proposal complies with Rescode standards with respect to adequate car parking, safe and convenient turning areas, on-site amenity and provision of open space and is not an overdevelopment of the site.
As for other developments in the district, he said the company does not have interests in Sienna Ridge (Hidden Valley), and sites around Bundoora and South Morang, but did assist with works in these areas for past clients or employees.
“We do not have any land banks in these areas that we intend to develop,” he said.
He said the King Street site was a prime location and other developers have expressed their interest in the property.
The proposed 13,762 m2 site is located less than one kilometre from the town centre and is within an acceptable walking distance to local schools and public facilities such as Hadfield Park.
It is within walking distance to a bus route which connects to commuter trains at the Wallan railway station and to the town centre and schools.
Despite these details, many residents are still not convinced the King Street property is the ideal area for development.
King Street resident Mark Hilder is just one of the Wallan residents objecting to the King Street permit and voiced his concern to The Review last week.
He said his biggest concerns related to increased traffic, noise and the change of atmosphere.
Fellow King Street resident Peter Lawrence said Mr Hilder was “not the only one who should be concerned” about the development.
In a letter to the editor this week (see page 10) he argues that the state planning policy framework encourages residential developments that respect neighbourhood character and many of the homes in the street are on larger properties.
“This proposed development does not respect the neighbourhood,” he said.
“In fact if it goes ahead it will set the standard of development for the whole area.”
The Bornova Projects spokesperson said, like with almost every development, objections were expected.
“Objections are a normal part of any town planning process where a development of a site is proposed regardless of whether it is for one unit or 41 units,” he said.
“These objections are assessed by council in accordance with regulations.”
The planning application will be discussed at council where the objectors will be invited to speak and present their case.