Council’s Planning Committee has granted a Notice of Decision for a planning application to develop and subdivide 10 apartments at 34 Barrabool Road, Highton, subject to the approved conditions.
The land, at 993.7 square metres, is a larger than average site for the area and currently houses a single storey detached mid-20th century dwelling.
The site is within the Highton Shopping Centre Increased Housing Diversity Area, and conveniently located close to Highton Village.
The application proposes construction of a three-storey apartment building with a four-metre setback, a basement carpark and a communal outdoor area at the rear.
During public notice, the City received eight formal and two informal objections, and one submission of support.
The building has been re-designed to address the City’s concerns of overshadowing.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
The updated application features a considered design response that contributes to housing diversity in an area earmarked for increased density, diversity and choice.
The proposal satisfies the requirements of the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme.
It is conveniently located within walking and cycling distance to Highton Village and other nearby services and facilities.
The Planning Committee also rejected an application to develop a three-storey office, shop and café at 26 Hicks Street in Lara, opposite the Lara Train Station.
The proposal to use the 882 square metre site for a shop and reduce the car parking requirement triggered the need for a permit.
The application proposed a building reaching 11.6 metres high, internally illuminated signage and an underground carpark, with a reduction of 13 standard car parks.
The application was on public notice three times throughout the application process, receiving two letters of support and 125 objections.
Mayor Sullivan
The proposal is inconsistent with the neighbourhood character and amenity of the area.
The application also failed to meet car parking requirements.
The community can attend Planning Committee meetings at City Hall or view the livestream.
