new design and development overlays on exhibition now

Yes, sorry for the planning speak, but it's important council gets your views on what's known as Amendment C126, as this is all about the built form of new developments in our townships. I know that built form and township character have been key issues for some very controversial applications in the Lyster Ward so I encourage you to have your say on this consultation. The eventual outcome in this process is for Amendment C126 to be incorporated into the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme to give more weight to local design priorities.

Where does the amendment apply?

The amendment applies  Design and Development Overlays (DDO’s) to the following town centres:

Belgrave, Belgrave South, Coldstream, Kallista, Kilsyth, Healesville, Monbulk, Montrose, Mt Dandenong, Olinda, Sassafras, Seville, Tecoma, Upwey, Wandin North, Warburton, Woori Yallock, Yarra Glen and  Yarra Junction. 

What will the DDOs do?

The new overlays will provide design guidelines for new developments in these town centres. So they are all about the built form component of new developments. The design guidelines will make it easier for potential applicants and other interested parties to understand Council’s design objectives for the future development of town centre areas.

 The design guidelines will be used in the assessment of planning permit applications and in pre- application discussions with potential planning applicants. The new overlays will not increase the number of matters that currently require planning permits.

What information is available?

The Amendment info includes maps highlighting where the proposed DDOs will apply and a 'schedule' which details the sorts of things that are being considered to be included in the DDO. This includes things such as a character statement describing the town, the design objectives describing what's important to the town, what things are exempt, design requirements which has specific information detailing the town centre character, landscaping, the interface with public places and residential areas, car park design and if applicable design guidelines for key redevelopment sites. 

How can you find out more?

Community members can view the proposed design guidelines and other Amendment C126 documents at the following locations:

~ Council’s Community Links - our closest Monbulk or Upwey
~ Council’s website here

The closing date for submissions is 26 April 2013.

Submissions should be addressed to the Manager, Strategic Planning, PO Box 105 Lilydale 3140 or mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au, quoting Amendment C126.