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We're back and we have our very first special guest, Professor Carolyn Whitzman.   

Two weeks ago the ABC kicked off a national debate on Australia's population which after a 4 Corners and Q &amp; A back-to-back, the debate was side-tracked &amp; got bogged-down in the country's immigration intake.  

Lot's of arm-flapping as Professor Whitzman describes it.

One of the biggest gaps in those two hours was the complete lack of planning, urban design or even architectural voices.  We're here to close that gap.

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Alastair Taylor

Weekly Podcast: Episode 7 - Special guest Carolyn Whitzman

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An amendment to the design and development overlay governing the Melbourne Metro project has been triggered and is now being advertised after the contractor for the tunnel and station build has refined the route the tunnels will take.

During the Environmental Effects Statement process, a DDO was applied to all land that could be directly impacted by the boring of tunnels and construction of stations as part of the rail project.

The Cross Yarra Partnership includes Lendlease, John Holland, Bouygues Construction and Capella Capital as consortium members.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
More information on draft PSA, including the DDO maps, is available for feedback on our website from today until Tuesday 17 April 2018 <a href="https://t.co/GtBbR4Ut6W">https://t.co/GtBbR4Ut6W</a>
— Metro Tunnel (@metrotunnelvic) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/metrotunnelvic/status/975554816712716288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2018</a>
</blockquote>

The new amendment seeks to add and remove various properties to the project land in the DDO which would be impacted by the slight realignment of the tunnel around Grattan and Swanston Street. 

Various other pieces of land, including streets, are also proposed to be added to the DDO - click the link in the Metro Tunnel's tweet above to see the full suite of documents.

<h2>Darebin Street tunnel civil works complete</h2>

The Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA) has announced the civil works on the duplication of the Darebin Street tunnel - a former single-track pinch point on the Hurstbridge Line between Heidelberg and Rosanna station - have been completed.

Work to start laying the track and installing the new catenary is set to commence.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hurstbridge_tunnel.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="New and old Darebin Street tunnels - image: LXRA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hurstbridge_tunnel.jpg?itok=bpM1ZKdq" title="New and old Darebin Street tunnels - image: LXRA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>New and old Darebin Street tunnels - image: LXRA</figcaption></figure>The Darebin Street tunnel works have been progressing at the same time as the new Rosanna Station &amp; elevated track over Lower Plenty Road are entering the final stages of construction (see lead image).  

The major Easter blitz, in the Hurstbridge line's case, will extend until the end of April when both the rail trench at Grange Road in Alphington and the elevated track at Rosanna are expected to be returned to service.

Thompsons Road in Cranbourne is hotting up as well with the new road bridge over the Cranbourne railway line well on its way to completion.  

VicRoads is delivering this level crossing removal as there is a broader road duplication project that extends beyond the scope of the level crossing removal.  Thompsons Road will be duplicated across the entire length between Dandenong-Frankston Road to Berwick-Cranbourne Road.  

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Metro Tunnel changes spark new planning amendment while level crossing removals power on

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The ministerial advisory committee set up as part Victorian Government's two-year Smart Planning reform program to look into and recommend improvements to the land use terms and definitions in the Victorian Planning Provisions is calling for submissions which relate to the discussion paper the committee published in late February 2018.

The Smart Planning program began life in July 2016 and has produced reforms such as streamlining regional planning policy (cutting 3000 pages from the planning schemes across the state), an interactive mapping tool for zone, overlay and other planning layer information across Victoria and began work on a new planning portal for the state which is due to be released by June 2018, according to the program's <a href="https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/policy-and-strategy/planning-reform/smart-planning-program">website</a>.

The ministerial advisory committee that is now seeking submissions was borne out of a past consultation round which recommended land use terms and their respective definitions be updated.

<blockquote>
In October 2017 the discussion paper, Reforming the Victoria Planning Provisions: A discussion paper was released which sought comment on a range of proposals to improve the system.

Proposal 5.2 of the Smart Planning discussion paper was to review and update the land use terms section of the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP). The Advisory Committee was appointed following feedback from the Smart Planning consultation to address the submissions received.
<cite>Land Use Terms Advisory Committee - <a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/application/files/1415/1970/8883/Land_Use_Terms_Advisory_Committee_Discussion_Paper_27_February_2018.pdf">Discussion Paper</a></cite>
</blockquote>

Richmond-based Ratio Consultants perhaps introduced it best in their most recent <a href="http://www.ratio.com.au/have-your-say-land-use-terms-discussion-paper-out-now">newsletter</a>. 

"Just as Shakespeare mused on the meaning of a name in Romeo and Juliet, planners and the public are being asked to turn their thoughts to the less romantic but important issue of land use terms following the release of a new discussion paper by Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DEWLP)", the opening paragraph reads.

"Recognising that not every proposal will fit a land use term like Cinderella’s slipper, the process’ guiding principles include focussing on what needs control due to particular amenity concerns and defining uses only when there is a need to aid interpretation."

Land use terms and definitions are referenced through the planning scheme and depending on the zone, certain land uses are prohibited, permitted without a permit or permitted with a permit.  Here's the current Land Use and Terms <a href="http://planningschemes.dpcd.vic.gov.au/schemes/vpps/74.pdf">document</a> in the Victorian Planning Provisions.

Individuals and organisations are free to structure their submissions how they see fit, however, the discussion paper asks 67 questions which "would assist the committee if you addressed the [following] questions".

Some examples from the discussion paper:

<blockquote>
2. Are there good reasons to change the practice that a land use listed in Clause 74 does not need to be defined, provided it has a well-defined common usage? What are these reasons?

25. Is there merit in defining Brewery, Distillery or Chocolate factory? If there is, how should they be treated in zones?

38. Is there a need to amend the definition of Medical centre, and what precise change is required?

45. Should Live music venue be listed in Clause 74, and if so how would it be defined?

57. What is the appropriate definition for Road?

65. Is there merit in defining Display village, and what should it include?
</blockquote>

To read the discussion paper, click <a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/application/files/1415/1970/8883/Land_Use_Terms_Advisory_Committee_Discussion_Paper_27_February_2018.pdf">here</a>.  Submissions can be made on the <a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/land-use-terms-advisory-committee">engage.vic.gov.au</a> website and must be received by the government by close of business on the 3rd of April 2018.
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What is a road? A solar farm? A Cafe? A Live music venue? Victoria seeks input on planning scheme land use terms and definitions

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Move over Woden, here comes Belconnen - Canberra developer Geocon Group has received approval from the ACT Government for its Republic project that is set to be the national capital's largest mix-use development which will also include the new tallest buildings in Canberra.

Construction is set to commence straight away on the $1 billion development which will be delivered over three stages.  According to the project's community consultation site, the three stages will include:

<ul>
<li>Stage 1: 387 apartments and serviced apartments with 118 public car spaces and a level 14 rooftop garden.</li>
	<li>Stage 2: 188 room hotel with 546 apartments and serviced apartments with 200 public car parks and a public observation level on the rooftop.</li>
	<li>Stage 3: 283 apartments and serviced apartments with 50 car parks.</li>
</ul>
Fender Katsalidis and Oculus Urban Planning lead the design &amp; planning team for the project and Abode Hotels will manage the hotel space.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/republic_belconnen.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Republic in Belconnen. Planning image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/republic_belconnen.jpg?itok=ObvpYEbg" title="Republic in Belconnen. Planning image" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Republic in Belconnen. Planning image</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We’re delighted that the ACT Government shares our vision on this project, and of the scope for exciting, well-planned development in town centres.

No-one can accuse Canberra of being boring or stuck in the past with this type of project going ahead. And it’s very, very timely with the rental crisis and our rapidly-growing population.

The 113-metre tower will look completely different to anything else in Canberra, with a 100 percent glazed façade. The amenities are spectacular and the views will be breathtaking
<cite>Geocon Managing Director Nick Georgalis</cite>
</blockquote>

Stage one has already sold 70 percent of its available units and stage two will start an expression of interest campaign in April.

Geocon says the entire development will include terrace houses, an amphitheatre, 'Melbourne-style' laneway shops, boutique office space, climate-controlled wine cellars, a wellness centre, spa, sauna, snow fountain, yoga and meditation spaces, concierge services, a kids wonderland and a landscape sky park with BBQ facilities.

Retail facilities will include a supermarket and the project will have good access to bus services from the nearby in Cohen Street.

The tower which will become the new tallest building for Canberra will rise in stage 2

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/republic_belconnen3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="New lanes will be implemented in Republic. Planning Image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/republic_belconnen3.jpg?itok=MZQy3M7v" title="New lanes will be implemented in Republic. Planning Image" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>New lanes will be implemented in Republic. Planning Image</figcaption></figure>
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The tallest building in the nation's capital gets the nod, starts construction

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The Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz and the local member for Williamstown Wade Noonan opened a new development designed specifically for women and children escaping family violence.

The development saw an existing set of seven units replaced with 9 x 1 bedroom units and 11 x 2 bedroom units; the building will be managed by <a href="http://womenshousing.com.au">Women's Housing Limited</a>, a specialist community provider which focuses on housing for women over 55 and victims of family violence.

Finance for the development was provided as a grant through the Victorian Property Fund which in turn is funded through licensing fees and fines paid by estate agents and conveyancers.

Rents in the units capped at 30 percent of a household's income and according to WHL's website other eligibility criteria include tenants must not own or part-own property elsewhere, must have less than $30,000 in assets and have Australian citizenship or permanent residency status.

The Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz said "Women and children escaping family violence often face the immediate challenge of finding a new home.  That's why we have stepped in to fund these units that are safe, secure and that will help rebuild lives."

<blockquote>
The Labor Government provided a $5.6 million grant from the Victorian Property Fund (VPF) to Women’s Housing Limited to build the units.

Tenants for the new development will come from the public housing waiting list. To make them affordable, rent will be set at a maximum of 75 per cent of market price, or 30 per cent of a household’s income.

The units are located close to health and community services, public transport, shops and schools, and have been designed to meet at least a 6-star energy efficiency rating. This includes features to reduce energy and water consumption, helping to keep utility bills low.
</blockquote>

Other projects that have received grants from the <a href="https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/clubs-and-fundraising/funded-services-and-grants/victorian-property-fund-grants">Victorian Property Fund</a> include the City Gate conversion project which will see 32 studio, 5 x 1 bedroom, 11 x 2 bedroom and 2 x 3 bedroom units added to the community housing stock in St Kilda.

Likewise, Housing Choices Australia received a $4.9million grant from the VPF to finance conversions and new developments in Dandenong and Williamstown.
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Newport housing for victims of family violence opens

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The progressive diversification in the nature of employment that happens in Abbotsford might get a boost with a new planning application before Yarra City council.

Across Fitzroy, Collingwood and Abbotsford, many existing semi-industrial streets are seeing a progressive diversification of employment space and the latest proposal before the council would see that trend continue, albeit on a slightly larger scale compared to more recent small-street commercial developments.

The planning application currently displayed on Yarra City Councils website seeks permission for the proponent to build an 8 level plus 1 basement office building which will include a total of 2878sqm of commercial office space.

Architects CHT have designed a building to have a ground level break-out space and the basement level would see double the amount of bike spaces than car spaces.

The ground floor will also include 60sqm of retail space and the building will include standard end-of-trip facilities including showers, lockers, a bicycle repair station and disabled toilet facilities.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The proposed development comprises an eight (8) storey building with a maximum parapet height of 30.2m, with lift overrun protruding an additional 1.7m.

The development proposes a contextual architectural response resulting in an elegantly crafted building that will set the benchmark for future development within the area. The building is apportioned into two primary components.

The podium form presents to Marine Parade as a 3-storey form, consistent with the existing 2-3 storey datum present along the southern side of Marine Parade. At 3 storeys the building can be read as a logical transition from the 1-2 storey residential properties along the northern side of Marine Parade.

The proposal seeks to enhance what is otherwise an uninspiring area through the incorporation of a highly glazed café tenancy and double-height commercial lobby. The glazed vertical street frontage juxtaposed against framed horizontal glazing reinforces the existing commercial character of the southern side of the street.

The character of the area is further reinforced at ground level through a series of punctuated glazed recesses set behind the street frontage. Above podium the building is appropriately set back to provide for a clear distinction between the lower and upper proportions of the building.

The elegantly crafted angular glazed fagade treatment sets a catalyst for the benchmark for future architectural quality within the area. To the rear of the development the corresponding angular design reinforces the architectural language of the building while capturing distant views of the Yarra River Corridor environs.
<cite>proUrban Town Planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

According to project documents lodged with the City of Yarra, the development has an estimated cost of construction value of $10,000,000.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/marine_ode_abbotsford_1.png" rel="gallery-all" title="1E Marine Parade, Abbotsford - image: CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="278" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/marine_ode_abbotsford_1.png?itok=mlPb3FNG" title="1E Marine Parade, Abbotsford - image: CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1E Marine Parade, Abbotsford - image: CHT Architects</figcaption></figure>Project team:

<ul>
<li>Proponent: NewBart Investments Pty Ltd </li>
	<li>Architect: CHT Architects</li>
	<li>Urban Planner: Pro Urban</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: Ratio</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: GIW Environmental Solutions</li>
	<li>Waste Management Consultant: Ratio</li>
</ul>
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Abbotsford's small-street commercial market set to expand

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In November 2017 City of Stonnington received amended plans for 671 Chapel Street wherein the architect for the project, Architecton, has reduced the overall height of the building which in turn has reduced the overall amount of dwellings planned for the project.

Originally lodged with Council during 2015 with 30 levels and 352 apartments, the amended plans would see 671 Chapel Street weigh in at 21 levels with a total dwelling count of 158. The 2015 proposal had an average of 12 apartments per floor, although the amended plans will see this figure average out at  9 apartments per floor.

The amended proposal maintains a rooftop garden, plus 2,940 square metres of commercial space.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/671_chapel_redesign2.png" rel="gallery-all" title="671 Chapel Street, South Yarra redesign - image: Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/671_chapel_redesign2.png?itok=sYggrfC9" title="671 Chapel Street, South Yarra redesign - image: Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>671 Chapel Street, South Yarra redesign - image: Architecton</figcaption></figure>The Stonnington Leader reported that the scale of the proposal had changed after consultation with council staff, and that the latest amendment received 30 objections. The amendment was approved by Stonnington council early in February with a 5-2 vote, however that did not stop one councillor airing his disapproval through the local newspaper.

Councillor Matthew Koce, one of the two no votes, in reference to the project located adjacent to Melbourne High School and its overall prominence in the area, told the Stonnington Leader "Melbourne High is meant to be a castle on a hill, it’s turning more and more into a sand castle."

Nonetheless proponent Lantern River Pty Ltd has gained the right to deliver the tower.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/capitol_grand_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Capitol Grand's lift cores now well and truly above street level - image: UM user redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capitol_grand_1.jpg?itok=LJNPIJXL" title="Capitol Grand's lift cores now well and truly above street level - image: UM user redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Capitol Grand's lift cores now well and truly above street level - image: UM user redden</figcaption></figure>South Yarra's Forrest Hill precinct has seen intensive development over more than a decade with one of its largest buildings, Capitol Grand located just down the street from 671 Chapel Street, attracting intense interest on the <a href="/news">Apartments.com.au Forum</a>.

Capitol Grand will be the first 'skyscraper' (a building with a roof height over 152.4 metres (that's 500 feet in the old money) outside Melbourne's CBD, Southbank, St Kilda Road or Docklands precincts.

Seen above is the latest construction image of Capitol Grand, posted by UM user redden, dated early March.
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671 Chapel Street gets a redesign, approved by Stonnington council

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<h2>Comment</h2>

The Premier has announced stage 2 of the latest round of Monash Freeway widening will include thickening the road in the midsection of the road as well as widening the road as far as Cardinia Road.

Curiously, widening works will mean outbound lanes from Warrigal Road to Eastlink will go from 4 to 5 lanes but the inbound widening from 4 to 5 lanes will only occur from Eastlink to Springvale Road. 

The second half of the old Berwick bypass section will be widened from Clyde Road to Cardinia Road on the Pakenham bypass section of the road from 2 to 3 lanes in each direction as part of stage 2 which has now been submitted to Infrastructure Australia for approval. 

O'Shea Road, a collector in Berwick South will be duplicated and extended to the Beaconsfield interchange as well.

It is well documented that Victoria (and Australia for that matter) does not have an effective demand management system or pricing regime on roads - every vehicle class pays the same level of registration and effectively the road network is a free-for-all when it comes to motorised travel - and therefore pressure is relentlessly piled on to expand major roads every 5-10 years thanks to induced demand and a growing outer south-east population.

Road planners clearly only see a need for road widening in the central part of the road, between Warrigal Road and the South Gippsland FWY interchange - the city end of the road is left untouched in this round of expansion.

With that in mind, if the perceived need is confined to such a focused area, why are we reaching for the road expansion political playbook and not looking at alternatives?

The central part of the Monash Freeway runs right through, you guessed it, the Monash employment and innovation cluster, the same area which the Victorian Planning Authority is working on a specialised structure land-use plan.

Even the most ardent public and active transport campaigners recognise roads can have productive non-commuting uses that just cannot be shifted to an alternative mode but in the context of no demand management policy, a significant amount of our road network at different times of the day is filled with single-occupant cars.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/space_emissions_institute_sensible_transport_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Emissions and space required for different forms of transport - image: Institute for Sensible Transport"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/space_emissions_institute_sensible_transport_0.jpg?itok=pvWlNzcr" title="Emissions and space required for different forms of transport - image: Institute for Sensible Transport" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Emissions and space required for different forms of transport - image: <a href="https://urban.melbourne/sustainability-environment/2018/03/17/transport-emissions-and-space-we-have-transition-targets-one-not-other">Institute for Sensible Transport</a></figcaption></figure>We're yet to see the detail of the VPA's work on the Monash cluster and what it might look like over time, however, all signs are pointing to a greater concentration of employment uses in the area.  If you start with the mindset that most people are going to continue to drive to this area, the thickening of the Monash Freeway through the central portion of the road makes sense.

The other major arterial slicing through the region is, of course, the Pakenham/Cranbourne rail lines which are seeing enormous amounts of investment, as Spring Street would hasten to point out, however we're yet to see if the new Turn-Up-And-Go (TUAG) service the state government has been spruiking for the rail line after all the projects are complete will be useful for people who don't live or work in the centre of the city.

Sure, the Melbourne Metro Tunnel will connect the western suburbs and the south eastern suburbs with a one-seat journey and will facilitate growth in the west, however the eastern side of the metropolitan area is where the majority of Melbourne's population currently lives and therefore a lot of the heavy passenger lifting will be done on the eastern section of the new metro line.

The metro tunnel + level crossing removals + new High-Capacity Metro Train (HCMT) + new signalling &amp; power infrastructure programme will unlock capacity in stages right up until the final one when the metro tunnel opens - with even more capacity on the horizon after the metro tunnel opens with a subsequent set of projects to lengthen platforms in order for 10 car trains to eventually run on the line.

But surely we can trial alternatives to never-ending freeway widening by rethinking rail feeder services?

There's scant talk of turning bus routes - whether existing or those that could be altered - into operations that compliment the TUAG nature of the new metro line. 

If passengers are forced to make two service changes in a single journey, such as bus-train-bus, the rule of thumb appears to be to shut down that kind of talk in Melbourne. 

Yet look at the new paradigm and the rail network - frequencies and passenger carrying capacity is going up - are we not about to enter into the best possible situation to at least trial a proper, high frequency rail and bus network in the middle and outer suburbs which we know are going to see more residential and employment growth?

Look at the success of bus routes when they are made more frequent (and focused) between Huntingdale station and Monash University - surely within the context of the Monash employment cluster framework, many more of these high-frequency &amp; short bus routes will need to be deployed?  
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The Monash Freeway widening juggernaut rolls on, has anyone in government thought of alternatives?

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They say a picture speaks a thousand words and in this case, it really does.  The following infographic was produced by the <a href="https://sensibletransport.org.au/">Institute of Sensible Transport</a> and shared through the Public Transport Users Association's facebook page.

It breaks down the emissions produced per person-kilometre travelled as well as the amount of space required for an occupant on a scale from dirtiest to cleanest from an emission's perspective.  And while a picture may speak a thousand words, it's worth writing a few hundred words about it.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
This terrific diagram from <a href="https://twitter.com/ElliotFishman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ElliotFishman</a> compares emissions and space consumption for different transport modes.  <a href="https://t.co/EQPWwaJJQY">pic.twitter.com/EQPWwaJJQY</a>
— PTUA (@ptua) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/ptua/status/974109029348724737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a>
</blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Anything that operates on electricity from the grid at present will have varying degrees of 'dirtiness' lurking over any respective green image due to much of our electricity produced through fossil fuels despite a transition to more renewable generation being added to the grid.

By the end of 2018, Victoria will likely have another gigawatt (1000MW) of grid-connected renewables either completed or under construction which will increase renewables in the mix as there are no fossil fuel generators under development.

Some of these projects include the 530MW <a href="https://www.stockyardhillwindfarm.com.au/">Stockyard Hill</a> wind farm located west of Ballarat, the 226MW <a href="http://www.murrawarra-windfarm.com/">Murra Warra</a> wind farm located north of Horsham and recently reached financial close, the 100MW <a href="https://numurkahsolarfarm.com.au/">Numurkah solar farm</a> and the 110MW <a href="http://www.bannertonsolarfarm.com.au/">Bannerton Park</a> solar farm located near Robinvale.  There's over 3 gigawatts worth of Wind Farms that have received <a href="https://www.energy.vic.gov.au/renewable-energy/wind-energy/wind-projects">ministerial approval or are in the process of being assessed</a>.

Bannerton Park and Numurkah grabbed headlines last year when it was announced they were both the successful renewable energy projects that tendered for the Yarra Trams power contract.

As the national grid sees more and more renewables connected, the emissions per person-kilometre travelled will decrease - we're very much on that journey right now.

<h2>For cities, the emissions problem is on the way to being solved, but what about space?</h2>

In a few decades, we might reach the point where all electricity generation in Victoria and indeed across the country has transitioned to renewable generation and storage as well as all new cars, trucks and buses are either powered by electricity or a fuel produced by renewable energy such as <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-08/worlds-largest-solar-and-wind-hydrogen-plant-proposed-for-sa/9526706">hydrogen</a>. 

It's really not hard to envision that future with wind and solar now among the cheapest forms of new generation and likewise, storage technology price reductions are driving growth at the grid level and in detached dwellings and businesses.

We have targets at the Federal and State level that have focused investment in renewable energy generation - the South Australian Labor party even announced a storage target during its election pitch - however we don't have city, state or national transport mode share targets for cities.

At a precinct level we're starting to see targets - case in point, Fishermans Bend is aiming to have 80% of all trips to, from and within handled by sustainable modes of transport (walking, cycling, public transport), but nothing at a city or state-wide level.

In the context of a Melbourne &amp; Sydney that are predicted to have their populations increase to 8 million by the middle of the century through increased densities, should we not have targets for our cities to shift away from space-hogging private transport to more space-efficient public transport and active transport modes?

 
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Transport emissions and space - we have transition targets for one but not the other

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A new organisation to represent the interests of existing businesses in Fishermans Bend has launched. 

The registered association, Fishermans Bend Business Forum, sees itself as the body for local businesses already operating in Fishermans Bend, and it has eight priorities it wishes to engage with both local and state governments.

According to the forum's rules of association, their  purpose for bring includes:

<ul>
<li>Providing businesses located in the Fishermans development precinct with a unified voice </li>
	<li>To engage with political decision-makers at the federal, state and local level to deliver real results for our members and the broader business community </li>
	<li>To provide opportunities for members to network and collaborate in improving individual businesses and the local economy </li>
	<li>To tackle issues that impact on members’ business and ensure that they are on the public policy agenda</li>
	<li>To work with developers, transport authorities, planners and investors to ensure quality outcomes that are conducive to good business outcomes for the Fishermans Bend precinct</li>
</ul>
Speaking with Apartments.com.au, interim executive officer David Weston said the new forum was awarded a small grant to build a database of existing businesses - so far the forum has identified 338 businesses and they estimate there are another 100 in the wider Fishermans Bend Area.

Like many individuals and organisations who have made a submission to the Fishermans Bend planning review process, the Fishermans Bend Business Forum, is pushing for government to invest in the public transport initiatives sooner.

Of particular concern is the Employment Precinct - the forum believes there are many businesses already operating in the area that will require large amounts of car parking, regardless of a transitionary period and that without the heavy rail component of the integrated transport plan, the forum believes some of the mode share targets will not be achievable.

The cement terminal in Fishermans Bend is a highly strategic piece of state infrastructure as much of the state's cement passes through it and with each ship which docks there, that generates up 30 truck loads on Lorimer Street.

Lorimer Street is set to have a significant focus for cycling and the forum believes more work needs to be done in this area given the strategic importance of the cement terminal &amp; the truck trips it will generate and the potential conflict this will have with an on-road cycling network.

The forum also would like to see an economic impact assessment completed with regards to businesses transitioning out of the area. The cement terminal is one of many pieces of infrastructure in the area that might come under pressure for transitioning and the forum believes it would be in the public interest to assess the impacts on a wider range of businesses possibly transitioning out of Fishermans Bend.

The Fishermans Bend Business Forum will be launched at Pier 35 tonight (March 15th) where the chair of the Fishermans Bend Ministerial Advisory Committee Meredith Sussex will also speak on the Government's vision for the area.
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New Fishermans Bend Business Forum launches

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

Alastair Taylor

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