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The RACV's On Track survey which asks respondents to detail their experience with the Melbourne train network is now open and will close on December 2nd.

The 2015 survey had more than 17,800 responses with train users - whether frequent or infrequent users - quizzed on their experiences at train stations.

Questions pertaining to how train users arrive at the station - by walking, by another mode of public transport, by bike or by car - are asked and survey respondents are asked to rate the quality of the experience they have.

<blockquote>
Through our biennial On Track survey, RACV wants to hear what you like and don't like about your train journeys, be it your daily commute on Melbourne's rail network or trips on regional V/Line services.  And if you don't catch a train at all, we want to know why.

RACV's Dave Jones says that be pin-pointing the issues that are of highest concern for train users, the On Track survey will support advocay for further improvements to the state's rail network.

The State Government has committed $1.4 billion for station upgrades over the next five years, and this is your chance to say what is needed at the stations you use, or would like to use.
<a href="https://www.racv.com.au/membership/member-benefits/royalauto/motoring/public-transport/have-your-say-on-victorias-train-network-on-track-2017"><cite>RACV</cite></a>
</blockquote>

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/footy-train_racv.jpg?itok=Az5sjs7I" title="The RACV On Track survey closes on December 2nd." width="580"><figcaption>The RACV On Track survey closes on December 2nd.</figcaption></figure>The RACV points to the 2015 survey and the responses received on the facilities at Gardiner, which has since been completely rebuilt as part of the grade separation project at Burke Road at Gardiner Station.  "Users identified shelter, station access and toilets as issues at Gardiner Station.  It has since been replaced with a new station and it has shelter for most of the length of the platforms and access from each end of the platform".

To take part in the survey, see RACV's website <a href="http://www.racv.com.au/ontracksurvey">here</a>.  The survey will close on December 2nd and the results released in February 2018.
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Alastair Taylor

RACV's biennial On Track survey opens

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On Saturday <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-draft-framework-released-uplift-controls-to-drive-affordable-housing">when the draft Fishermans Bend framework was released</a> I summarised the density controls - since then the state government has opened up an <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/documents">online library</a> of supporting documentation and one file of interest is the<a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/87069/Urban-Design-Strategy-171017_web-res.pdf"> Urban Design Strategy</a>, produced by Hodyl &amp; Co. 

If you found it hard to understand how new development would be shaped, reading that report should aid in understanding as it is complemented by each of the Capital City Zoned precincts having a visual which illustrates how they might appear.

The headline figure of 80,000 residents is addressed throughout the urban design strategy document and in summary, it effectively translates to approximately 38,000 households and with already 7,865 dwellings approved under the current planning regime a further 30,000 would need to be approved to house the 80,000 population target.

The report assumes 90% of the already-approved dwellings will eventually need to be built, and the 30,000 extra dwellings required translate into a gross floor area of 3,280,240m2.

The four non-employment precincts would also need 1,612,000m2 to house the predicted 40,000 jobs (another 40,000 jobs would located in the employment precinct), bringing the total of new floorspace required up to a cool 4,892,240m2.

As the overwhelming majority of new developments in Melbourne over the past decade have been residential in nature, the report recommends introducing a minimal commercial FAR to ensure the 4 non-employment precincts have sufficient space built to cater for those jobs.

The visuals below, taken from the Urban Design Strategy, illustrate how each precinct might look when 'building out' to each precinct's space requirements.  The main caveat is that each precinct diagram does not take into account possible uplift scenarios.

Buildings shown in red are developments that have been approved under the existing planning regime.  Pink buildings relate to new 'core' area buildings, light brown relates to new 'non-core' area buildings.

<h2>Lorimer</h2>

<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/lorimer.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Lorimer build-out diagram - Urban Design Strategy"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/lorimer.png?itok=CGwdSOpP" title="Lorimer build-out diagram - Urban Design Strategy" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lorimer build-out diagram - <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/87069/Urban-Design-Strategy-171017_web-res.pdf">Urban Design Strategy</a></figcaption></figure><h2>Montague</h2>

<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/montague_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Montague build-out diagram - Urban Design Strategy"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="391" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/montague_0.png?itok=AmPiuP4U" title="Montague build-out diagram - Urban Design Strategy" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Montague build-out diagram - <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/87069/Urban-Design-Strategy-171017_web-res.pdf">Urban Design Strategy</a></figcaption></figure><h2>Sandridge</h2>

<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/sandridge.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Sandridge build-out diagram - Urban Design Strategy"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sandridge.png?itok=OnsfK0Lf" title="Sandridge build-out diagram - Urban Design Strategy" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sandridge build-out diagram - <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/87069/Urban-Design-Strategy-171017_web-res.pdf">Urban Design Strategy</a></figcaption></figure><h2>Wirraway</h2>

<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/wirraway.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Wirraway build-out diagram - Urban Design Strategy"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="375" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/wirraway.png?itok=eBpmRPT4" title="Wirraway build-out diagram - Urban Design Strategy" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Wirraway build-out diagram - <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/87069/Urban-Design-Strategy-171017_web-res.pdf">Urban Design Strategy</a></figcaption></figure>See the full Urban Design Strategy on <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/87069/Urban-Design-Strategy-171017_web-res.pdf">www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au</a>
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Fishermans Bend's Urban Design Strategy - visuals

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The draft Fishermans Bend framework <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-draft-framework-released-uplift-controls-to-drive-affordable-housing">that was released on Saturday</a> included an integrated transport plan that seeks to address targets such as 80% of all trips to be made by sustainable transport modes that were set out in the vision and now carried through to the draft framework.

The raw numbers for the costings in the integrated transport plan are not provided however we do see a range of demand and route options analysis.  

The tone for the plan is set in the opening pages.

<blockquote>
"With over 260,000 daily trips expected to be generated by residential development alone, a mode shift to walking, cycling and public transport will have a significant impact on transport and amenity outcomes for the precinct.

Whilst the early provision of high quality pedestrian, cycling and public transport networks presents a signficant challendge, the transformation of the precinct provides an opportunity to create an enduring legacy for Melbourne similar to the Hoddle Grid.
</blockquote>

Starting with the bare bones, the new street network proposed for the entire urban renewal area would see several existing large parcels of land sub-divided, especially in the Capital City Zoned (non-Employment) precincts.  

Sandridge, Wirraway, and Lorimer would see the largest amount of new streets added and two major boulevards with trams would be created both north and south of the West Gate Freeway.

<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/transport_plan_road_network.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposed street network - Fishermans Bend Integrated Transport Plan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="360" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/transport_plan_road_network.png?itok=BleJcQUU" title="Proposed street network - Fishermans Bend Integrated Transport Plan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposed street network - Fishermans Bend Integrated Transport Plan</figcaption></figure>The first of the widened streets / new boulevards with tram routes would be along Turner Street, through the now government-owned GMH site and Wharf Road.

Turner Street has significant scope for widening/expansion thanks to an electricity distribution easement.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m0!4v1508716680931!6m8!1m7!1scaOFaTaEFzd-RNf_gjAe4A!2m2!1d-37.8237429981255!2d144.9248190500767!3f110.53873991183585!4f4.722029360175185!5f1.1924812503605782" style="border:0" width="100%"></iframe>

The second of the new boulevards is posed to be the existing Fennell and Plummer Streets.  Fennell Street would be heart of the Sandridge precinct with all three modes of public transport converging on the street between Ingles and Bertie Street.

The streetview below is the approximate location of the Sandridge station, new civic spine and tram route as shown in the plan's maps.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m0!4v1508717358527!6m8!1m7!1soMrsgXWeXZS51bWS_hYRRg!2m2!1d-37.82873348711779!2d144.9377429424271!3f36.753881335881694!4f-2.3590124121340494!5f0.7820865974627469" style="border:0" width="100%"></iframe>

A significant amount of new bridges have been foreshadowed, primarily for pedestrian and cycling links but also across the river in Docklands.  

There appears to be a particular emphasis on creating more links from the Employment precinct into Wirraway and a major bridge appears on the maps from the draft framework on the eastern side of the West Gate Freeway / Citylink interchange connecting Wirraway/Sandridge with Lorimer.  

<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/transport_plan_cycling_network.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposed pedestrian and cycling routes through Fishermans Bend"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/transport_plan_cycling_network.png?itok=TAD3XGEd" title="Proposed pedestrian and cycling routes through Fishermans Bend" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposed pedestrian and cycling routes through Fishermans Bend</figcaption></figure>The bridge across the river - an extension of Collins Street in Docklands - received particular emphasis in the integrated plan with several pages in part B of the document dedicated to explaining how the transport experts arrived at the preferred alignment.  

The preferred option would see a 6m high tram, pedestrian and cycling bridge constructed to rise in between the existing ANZ HQ and 839 Collins Street in Victoria Harbour and then sweep around to align with Hartley street in Yarra's Edge.  

<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/new_yarra_bridge.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The preferred position of a new tram, pedestrian and cycle bridge - Collins Street and Hartley Street (bottom right) - Google Earth"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/new_yarra_bridge.png?itok=2ktVefe7" title="The preferred position of a new tram, pedestrian and cycle bridge - Collins Street and Hartley Street (bottom right) - Google Earth" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The preferred position of a new tram, pedestrian and cycle bridge - Collins Street and Hartley Street (bottom right) - Google Earth</figcaption></figure>The integrated transport plan's recommendation on the light rail states initial priority is the northern boulevard/tram route, however, City of Port Phillip mayor Bernadene Voss said the council's submission to the new consultation round will seek a commitment to deliver the entire tram network within four years to ensure high-quality development and jobs are delivered in Sandridge and Wirraway

<blockquote>
We particularly welcome the sustainability objectives, focus on jobs and a knowledge economy, an affordable housing target and a land use planning approach to control density.

However question marks remain about several issues of crucial concern to our community.  There is no definitive timeline, for example, for the delivery of the much-needed tram network
<cite>City of Port Phillip Mayor, Cr Bernadette Voss<cite> </cite></cite>
</blockquote>

<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/transport_plan.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The public transport network for Fishermans Bend"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/transport_plan.png?itok=1cUbKTc_" title="The public transport network for Fishermans Bend" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The public transport network for Fishermans Bend</figcaption></figure>One other major aspect of the integrated transport plan deals with the alignment and location of stations for a second cross-town underground rail line that first appeared in the 2012 heavy rail network development plan.

Multiple routes were assessed (refer to page 34 in the <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0029/87059/Fishermans-Bend-Integrated-Transport-Plan-Final.docx.pdf">integrated transport plan</a>) however at the end of the assessment process two options for further assessment were presented.  

The first option will be familiar to some and it involves a direct route under Plummer and Fennel Streets with a station at Sandridge and one in Wirraway.  The second option maintains the station in Sandridge however it takes a more serpentine alignment westward with a station located in the heart of the government-owned GMH site.

Also of note is a new frequent bus route linking Lorimer, Sandridge (including the proposed station) and Domain station via South Melbourne on Metro 1 - the line currently under construction. 

The plan document also notes that many of the existing bus routes already serving Fishermans Bend are infrequent and alludes to upgrades to these routes in the short term, possibly within the next budget cycle.

The main surprise in the document was the inclusion of a new freight route that would see a bridge built adjacent to the Bolte Bridge on its western side.  The freight route would seek to use much of the 220kV transmission easement and would link the road and rail networks behind Appleton Dock with Webb Dock (refer to page 18 in the <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0029/87059/Fishermans-Bend-Integrated-Transport-Plan-Final.docx.pdf">integrated transport plan</a>).

<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/transport_plan_freight_network.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed freight network for Fishermans Bend"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/transport_plan_freight_network.png?itok=RH0p0xae" title="The proposed freight network for Fishermans Bend" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed freight network for Fishermans Bend</figcaption></figure>Water transport gets a mention as well with an assessment finding that the only viable routes would be from 3 points - Footscray just south of the Shepherd Bridge, Victoria Harbour &amp; Newquay in Docklands and Flinders Street/Southbank. 

Routes reaching further upstream along the Maribyrnong River as far as the defense site near Highpoint and along the Yarra River as far as Dight falls were looked at but were not found feasible.

The integrated transport plan represents one of the first public documents to be released from Transport for Victoria, the new agency set up and tasked with strategic transport planning job for Victoria.

Click <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0029/87059/Fishermans-Bend-Integrated-Transport-Plan-Final.docx.pdf">here</a> to read the integrated transport plan.

Read more: <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-draft-framework-released-uplift-controls-to-drive-affordable-housing">Fishermans Bend draft framework released, uplift controls to drive affordable housing</a>.

The Planning Minister in his own words: <a href="/news/richard-wynne-on-fishermans-bend-we-have-to-get-urban-renewal-projects-right">We have to get urban renewal projects right</a>.

Lead image credit: <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0030/87069/Urban-Design-Strategy-171017_web-res.pdf">Sandridge &amp; FAR build out - Urban Design Strategy by Hodyl &amp; Co.</a>
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Walking, bikes and public transport the big focus in Fishermans Bend's integrated transport plan

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A combination of mandatory and discretionary height limits, setbacks, floor area ratios, floor area uplift controls and detailed precinct plans will guide density and uses within new buildings in Fishermans Bend over the coming decades as the urban renewal area undergoes development.

The draft Fishermans Bend framework released today adds more meat to the bones of the vision document which was released in September 2016. 

There's still a fair way to go before amendments are made to planning schemes - today marks the start of another consultation round and detailed precinct plans will take into account the feedback received in this round - however one thing is clear: Fishermans Bend's ultimate built form will be diverse.

Simply referring to height limits in specific areas is fairly useless when attempting to convey - in text - how Fishermans Bend will develop, it's a lot more complex than that. 

<blockquote>
It starts with open space. We’ve already pressed ahead with plans for the Montague Community Park – and now we’re going further. The Framework earmarks the equivalent of two thirds the size of Docklands for open space, or 50 MCGs.

Four new AFL-sized ovals, six soccer pitches and eight outdoor courts will give local kids badly-needed space to blow off steam and embrace healthy and active lifestyles.
<cite>Planning Minister Richard Wynne - <a href="/news/fishermans-bend-draft-framework-released-uplift-controls-to-drive-affordable-housing">in his own words on Urban.com.au today</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>A closer look at the new planning controls</h2>

The 480-hectare urban renewal area straddles both the City of Melbourne and City of Port Phillip local government areas (LGAs).  Lorimer and the Employment precinct are located with the City of Melbourne LGA and Wirraway, Sandridge and Montague's precincts are located within the City of Port Phillip LGA.

Across all four non-employment precincts (to be known as the Capital City Zoned precincts) height limits weigh in as follows: mandatory 4 levels in the interface zones along Williamstown Road.  Elsewhere discretionary height limits of 4, 6, 8, 12, 24 and unlimited levels will apply in different areas.

Both Sandridge and Lorimer will see the most generous height limits. On either side of the West Gate Freeway - to the east of the Bolte Bridge - the unlimited height limit control has been proposed with multiple steps down through both 24 and 12 level limits the further a development site is located from the West Gate Freeway.

<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/fish_bend_height_limits.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposed height limits across Fishermans Bend"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fish_bend_height_limits.jpg?itok=d297Rz0k" title="Proposed height limits across Fishermans Bend" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposed height limits across Fishermans Bend</figcaption></figure>Setback rules that currently govern planning over the area will be maintained with developments that have 20 or more levels requiring mandatory tower separation of 20 metres and 10 metres from all boundaries. 

Other setback requirements are set to be introduced for developments at other height levels as well.

Height limits and setbacks - the current controls over Fishermans Bend - will have the added dimension of floor area ratio (FAR) and floor area uplift (FAU) controls and the draft framework provides some numbers.

The example provided in the draft Fishermans Bend framework and seen below assumes a floor area ratio (FAR) of 3:1 on a developable site area of 600m2.

<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/fish_bend_far_fau_example.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A floor area ratio (FAR) and floor area uplift (FAU) example"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="207" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fish_bend_far_fau_example.jpg?itok=gh4uwQpc" title="A floor area ratio (FAR) and floor area uplift (FAU) example" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A floor area ratio (FAR) and floor area uplift (FAU) example</figcaption></figure>Sandridge will be the epicentre of the most intensive development and one of the two new metro stations with what the framework calls 'Sandridge Core' having the highest proposed FAR at 8.1:1.  The non-core area of Sandridge will be 3.3:1 which has predominantly been applied to the areas which interface with other precincts to the east (Montague) and west (Wirraway).

Montague, the precinct that is the nextdoor neighbour to Southbank, sees the second highest core FAR proposed at 6.1:1 and its non-core FAR will be set at 3.0:1.  There is no distinction between core and non-core areas of Lorimer with the precinct proposed to have a FAR of 5.4:1

Wirraway will be the precinct which sees the least density with core FAR set at 4.1:1 and non-core FAR set at 2.1:1.

Each precinct also has a minimum FAR in activity centres for employment floor area 'to ensure that job targets are met' according to the draft framework.

<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/fish_bend_far.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposed floor area ratio (FAR) controls in Fishermans Bend"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fish_bend_far.jpg?itok=ahx_Ioze" title="Proposed floor area ratio (FAR) controls in Fishermans Bend" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposed floor area ratio (FAR) controls in Fishermans Bend</figcaption></figure>Crucially, the framework proposes to introduce a floor area uplift (FAU) control that focuses on providing public benefits as Fishermans Bend is redeveloped.  The framework applies the following priorities.

<blockquote>
1. Affordable housing: developers can seek to apply a FAU on their site which is transferred to registered housing associations.  For every one affordable housing unit delivered, the developer is able to construct an additional eight dwellings for private sale.

2. Community infrastructure: developers can seek to apply a FAU on their site to deliver identified community hubs.  For every 100m2 of community infrastructure delivered, developers are able to deliver an equivalent value of residential floor area.

3. Additional public open space: developers can seek to apply a FAU on their site to deliver public open space that is in addition to the identified open spaces within the draft Framework and the required 8% public open space contribution.  This public open space must be transferred across to the relevant authority.  For every 26m2 of public open space delivered, developers are able to deliver an equivalent value of residential floor areas.
</blockquote>

Each precinct will also have targets for family-sized (3+ bedroom) dwellings and as the <a href="/news/richard-wynne-on-fishermans-bend-we-have-to-get-urban-renewal-projects-right">Planning Minister states</a> "a target of 6% affordable housing is a cornerstone of the Framework".

Today marks the start of another consultation round and the draft framework's release is a precursor to the individual precinct plans for the four capital city zoned precincts in Fishermans Bend.

<blockquote>
All precincts will have their own plan that will reflect the finegraind detail of what has been oulined in this draft Framework.  The Employment Precinct, however, will follow a separate timeframe and planning process.

Precinct plans aim to:

<ul>
<li>elaborate the unique and distinct character and vision of each precinct.</li>
	<li>undertake a place making approach that spatially integrates the objectives and strategies in this draft Framework through a set of detailed design responses</li>
	<li>identify a range of priority detailed actions and initiatives to guide the deliver of key projects identified in this draft Framework</li>
</ul>
<cite>Draft Fishermans Bend Framework</cite>
</blockquote>

The framework is available to read <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/framework/fishermans-bend-draft-framework">here</a>.  Fishermans Bend now also has an online document library located <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/documents">here</a>.

Read more: <a href="/news/walking-bikes-and-public-transport-the-big-focus-in-fishermans-bends-integrated-transport-plan">Walking, bikes and public transport the focus in Fishermans Bend's integrated transport plan</a>.

The Planning Minister in his own words: <a href="/news/richard-wynne-on-fishermans-bend-we-have-to-get-urban-renewal-projects-right">We have to get urban renewal projects right</a>.
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Fishermans Bend draft framework released, uplift controls to drive affordable housing

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The state government has unveiled its <a href="http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/2017_Victorian_Infrastructure_Plan.pdf">Victorian Infrastructure Plan</a>. The plan is required to be released each time Infrastructure Victoria updates its 30-year strategy which was unveiled in December 2016.

On the whole, there aren't many surprises however one aspect of the recently released documents should not be ignored - we get a high-level, albeit brief, feel for what the government is currently thinking on the range of infrastructure recommendations IV put forward last year.

In the final section of the published infrastructure plan, the government outlines its response to each individual recommendation from Infrastructure Victoria. 

The state government supports, supports in principle, or partly supports 134 of the 137 recommendations from Infrastructure Victoria.  Energy pricing and transport network pricing are the two recommendations the state government does not support and 'brown coal transition' is the last recommendation that is subject to future consideration.

As first outlined in the 30-year strategy devised by Infrastructure Victoria, the Victorian Infrastructure Plan uses the word infrastructure in the broadest sense.  From transport to culture, education to the justice system, and many others, the government's position on each aspect is addressed.

Each supported position is categorised as follows:

<blockquote>
Supported - the recommendation is supported in full, is fully funded and will be implemented in its entirety

Supported in principle - broad direction of the recommendation is supported, but specific actions are subject to further budget to further budget consideration (either over the forward estimatesor beyond) or external factors (example: Commonwealth funding).

Partly supported - the objective of the recommendation is supported, although for optimal outcome, implementation actions may vary from Infrastructure Victoria's recommendation.
</blockquote>

In the transport realm, the Transport Priority 2 - Building for the future section of the infrastructure plan hs 5 recommendations which have been given the top 'supported' position: Employment Centre Arterial Roads, Level Crossing Removals, North East Link, Wollert Transport Links and Melbourne Metro - future stages, or as it's referred to in the IV strategy, Melbourne Metro 2.

Melbourne Metro 2 is the rail line that would divert the South Morang line into a tunnel and send it via Fitzroy, Parkville, Flagstaff, Southern Cross and into Fishermans Bend.  This project first appeared in the Napthine-era <a href="https://static.ptv.vic.gov.au/siteassets/PTV/PTV%20docs/Metro-rail-network-development-plan/PTV_Network-Development-Plan_Metropolitan-Rail_Overview_2016update.pdf">heavy rail network development plan</a>, although it has been advocated both here and elsewhere that the original proposal to terminate in Fishermans Bend be extended to cross the lower Yarra once more to bring the inner-city even closer to the south-west.

Melbourne Airport rail link, Growth area local buses, Fishermans Bend tram link, Employment centre mass transit, Melton rail electrification, 10-car metropolitan trains, City loop reconfiguration and Clyde rail extension, Smartbus network and Wallan rail electrification all scored a 'supported in principle' position.

For a look at the positions the government has taken, see the Victorian <a href="https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/2017_Victorian_Infrastructure_Plan.pdf">Infrastructure Plan document starting on page 138</a>. To read more detail about IV's recommendations on the various options, click <a href="http://infrastructurevictoria.com.au/sites/default/files/images/Options%20book%20-%20FINAL%20-%20December%202016.pdf">here</a>.

All eyes are now on the release of the draft Fishermans Bend framework as it promises 'a number of studies and expert reports [that] will support the development of the framework', including an <a href="http://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/framework">Integrated Transport Plan</a>.
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Spring Street unveils its response to Infrastructure Victoria's 30 year strategy

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Gravity Tower, the first tower to start construction, top out and reach completion with residents now calling it home has been completed in the Montague precinct in Fishermans Bend.

Developed by Blue Earth Group, designed by Plus Architecture and constructed by Hamilton Marino builders, Gravity Tower is well and truly a tower of the pre-Andrews government planning regime.

So much so, construction has completed before the imminent release of the draft Fishermans Bend Framework which will govern the development of the entire urban renewal area for decades to come.

"While there is ongoing planning uncertainty around Fishermans Bend, it's very exciting to be at the forefront of a precinct which will be integral to the future development of Melbourne's inner city" said Plus Architecture Director Ian Briggs.

<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/11541_n610_medium_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gravity Tower - image © Jaime Diaz-Berrio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="605" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/11541_n610_medium_0.jpg?itok=6vBOAk_V" title="Gravity Tower - image © Jaime Diaz-Berrio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gravity Tower - image © Jaime Diaz-Berrio</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Gravity Tower's distinctive facade of angled louvres is not just a visual motif however the solution acts as a sun shade for the apartments within without restricting views.

Designed to act as a beacon, the design references the industrial heritage of the area, providing a future gateway to Fishermans Bend.

Set on a narrow site at the top of the Montauge Precinct, Gravity was designed with the future rise of a precinct in mind, with the tower set back from Montague Street allowing the rear of the building to abut future developments on the same block.
<cite>Plus Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

<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/11541_n607_medium_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gravity Tower - image © Jaime Diaz-Berrio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="999" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/11541_n607_medium_0.jpg?itok=oI0-IrM5" title="Gravity Tower - image © Jaime Diaz-Berrio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gravity Tower - image © Jaime Diaz-Berrio</figcaption></figure>Gravity Tower has 144 one and two bedroom apartments with parking contained within its podium; the tower is located within a stone's throw of the Montague Street light rail #109 stop and ground level retail. Residents also have access to a rooftop dining and communal space.

Gravity Tower was submitted for town planning in late 2013, approved and marketed in late 2014 and early works began in late 2015.  The tower topped out in March of this year.  
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Gravity Tower in Fishermans Bend now complete

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<h2>Comment</h2>

Upon reading about Newmark Capital's intention to redevelop South Yarra's Jam Factory, my first thought was 'gee South Yarra station's going to be busy'.

Busier than it currently is in peaks, mind you.

The headline numbers are quite impressive: an end-value of $1.25 billion and 100,000 square metres of mixed-use space. 50,000 square metres will be new office space with floorplates up to 4,000sqm spread across 4 office towers up to 15 levels in height.

If approved, tenanted entirely and opened as planned, the 5,000 jobs that would exist on the site once the redevelopment is complete is not a figure to dismiss. The comments in relation to rethinking the lack of a Metro 1 stop at South Yarra have already begun and it's likely many 20:20 hindsight anecdotes will follow.

<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/jf_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Render of the proposed development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jf_2.jpg?itok=uWWG7N-2" title="Render of the proposed development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Render of the proposed development</figcaption></figure>Given the likelihood the state government would revise its earlier decision to not include an interchange at South Yarra is slim at best, focus should shift to the existing interchange at Caulfield which will be the only point at which passengers from the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines will be able to interchange with a Frankston line service to get to South Yarra station.

Caulfield station is a relic of times gone by.  The existing platforms and connecting ramps are subject to flash flooding like many other stations with the same design (looking at you Oakleigh), the track layout leaves much to be desired (and a lot of people thrown about inside the trains) plus trains are slowed right down to 25kph when they traverse the pedestrian subway which links the 4 platforms.

Ideally, Caulfield station would have a 5th platform added with a 1 track flyover at each end of the station to lift either the citybound Pakenham/Cranbourne track or the Frankston bound track over the other. 

This would allow for same-direction trains from Pakenham/Cranbourne and Frankston trains to enter Caulfield on the same island platform - facilitating a seamless platform transfer between lines - and vice versa.  Likewise, a secondary entrance build overhead with escalators and lifts would mitigate future flash flooding risks as well as provide an alternative to the pre-disability standards-era ramps.

Noting it is the second-best option compared to a full and proper interchange at South Yarra, the passenger interchange infrastructure and experience at Caulfield should be top priority, especially as more employment space is created in the inner suburbs further up the line.
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Jam Factory redevelopment piles on the pressure to upgrade Caulfield Station

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Spring Street on Sunday unveiled its package of rental reforms that will see a variety of changes to the Residential Tenancies Act (1997).

The state government has branded the reforms 'Rent Fair Victoria' and set up a website outlining the changes.

Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz said 'these changes will crack down on rental bidding, make it easier and faster for renters to get their bond back, and will hold landlords and agents to account for their actions'.

In the past, a lot of attention has focused on the drawing up and the introduction of a new optional standard long-term rental agreement that will allow tenants to sign a rental agreement lasting 5 or more years, if they so wish.  

That's present in the package of reform, but there's much more.

Landlords will now be required to disclose the known presence of asbestos in the premises prior to the signing of a contract.  Likewise, landlords will no longer be able to invoke the 120 day 'no specified reason' notice to vacate clause - going forward landlords will only be able to end a tenancy for a reason specified in the Residential Tenancies Act.

Rental bonds are also in for a shakeup.  The package would see either tenant or landlord having the ability to apply to the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority to have all or part of the bond released either with or without the other party's consent.  The Rent Fair Victoria <a href="http://www.vic.gov.au/rentfair/faster-payments-rental-bonds">website explains this further</a>:

<blockquote>
If both parties agree, the RTBA will pay out the bond in full or in accordance with instructions from the parties as to any apportionment within 14 days.

If either party has not consented to the bond being paid out, the RTBA will notify that other party, which then has 14 days to notify the RTBA if they are disputing the claim. If not the bond will be automatically paid out.

This reform will mean that, in practice, tenants will lodge their bond form and if the landlord does not dispute the bond within 14 days, the tenant will be paid out by the RTBA.
</blockquote>

The value of the bond will be capped at one month's rent for any property where rent is less than double the median weekly rent ($380) and the first month's rent requirement will also be capped at one month.  Landlords will be able to apply for an exemption on this rule from VCAT.

Rather than every 6 months, rent increases will only be able to be increased once every 12 months; likewise, landlords and agents will no longer be able to invite prospective tenants to make a rental offer higher than the fixed rental price.  Landlords and agents must only advertise a fixed rental amount, with no ranges of 'price plus' advertisements.

Correcting the current limbo that current tenants may find themselves in, tenants will be given the right of keep pets pursuant to the landlords written consent.  Outgoing tenants will be required clean and fumigate if there is pet-related damage to the property.

A new landlord and real estate agent blacklist will be introduced to allow tenants to identify landlords and agents who have previously breached their obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act.

www.vic.gov.au/rentfair
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Victorian Government takes wrapping off its rental reforms

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It is not on the state government's list of 50 level crossings to be removed, however, the Coolstore Road level crossing in Croydon is nevertheless subject to some interesting preliminary conceptual work.  

In August 2016 Maroondah City Council appropriated $40,000 and engaged consultants to look into the possibilities for the Croydon town centre and the <a href="http://webcast.maroondah.vic.gov.au/archive/video17-0626.php">report on the outcomes of the preliminary findings was presented</a> by Peter Marshall from K2 Group in June this year.

The council's Director of Planning and Communities <a href="http://webcast.maroondah.vic.gov.au/archive/video17-0626.php">stated in remarks prior to the presentation</a> that the report will be used for to assist in community consultation and for potential advocacy purposes.

The consultants found that lowering the rail track under Coolstore Road and building a new Croydon station in a trench would be cost prohibitive because the existing line's gradient is already at maximum and lowering the track even further would likely require a longer trench that directly impacts the rail bridge over Mount Dandenong Road.

Instead, the report focuses on an elevated rail solution that would include a new elevated Croydon Station and significant re-working of the street network below. 

At present Coolstore Road is the only connection to either side of the rail corridor within Croydon town centre and the report highlighted how multiple connections could be created as well as unify the two bus stops into a single interchange and likewise, 1.1 hectares of public open space would be created.

Infil next to the station building on the land to either side is also present in the report - the video below highlights all aspects that were covered.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6WKSDCMU7GU" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>Comment</h2>

The Lilydale branch of the Ringwood corridor has two level crossings on the list of 50 to be removed - Manchester Road in Mooroolbark and the Maroondah Highway in Lilydale - leaving the line with 3 level crossings: Coolstore Road in Croydon, Dublin Road in Ringwood East and Melba Avenue in Lilydale.

As stated in the June 2017 council video, Maroondah council is lobbying for this level crossing to be removed and the council ought to be congratulated for taking the initiative to identify possibilities. 

Some ratepayers might take issue with the bill however it's a relatively small price to pay to have preliminary advice presented to the council; the rail engineers and consultants were quick to rule out a trench option for crossing removal and the reasons stated - gradients and impacts on Mount Dandenong Road - pass the pub test.

The most interesting aspect of the presentation, however, is its focus on presenting a far more complete vision for the local town centre - the new elevated station &amp; its unified bus interchange, far better street connecting across the rail corridor, the enhanced and new open space and the inclusion of mocked-up in-fill development opportunities.

According to the Level Crossing Removal Authority's map, 44 level crossings have either been removed, are currently being removed or the main design and consultation process is underway.  The remaining 6 crossings are still in pre-design phase.

It's likely that before next year's election campaign kicks off, the remaining 6 crossings will be unveiled and hopefully, all the main political parties outline their plans for the level crossings that remain beyond the list of 50. 

While Croydon might not be at the top of a subsequent post-50 list, the groundwork that's already been laid puts it in good stead.  
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Croydon station and how its relationship with the local area might change

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The opening monologue in the ABC's Catalyst - <a href="http://iview.abc.net.au/programs/catalyst/SC1602H007S00">Sit back, relax; The dawn of the driverless car</a> - sets an intriguing tone for the 53 minute episode.

<blockquote>
The motor car has shrunk the world, increased personal freedom and in so many ways expanded our horizons.  But there's a flipside, cars have damaged our environment, poisoned the air we breathe and killed us in far more straightforward ways.
</blockquote>

The episode highlights the 5-<a href="http://www.wired.co.uk/article/autonomous-car-levels-sae-ranking">6 levels used to describe autonomous</a> vehicles and contains a mix of local and international guests which include technologists, journalists, and designers.

Much of the programme is dedicated to explaining the levels of autonomy and it spends a great of time on looking at where the industry has been and where it is now.   

In a nutshell, manufacturers are about to move, en masse, from level 3 to level 4, which, according to the various levels of autonomy, means that vehicles will become fully autonomous but limited to an '<a href="http://www.techrepublic.com/article/autonomous-driving-levels-0-to-5-understanding-the-differences/">operation design domain</a>'.

The regulatory environment for cars is naturally set to change to enable the introduction of level 4 and level 5 cars and it'll be an ongoing task for governments - predominantly states in the Australian context - to keep pace with the innovation that each manufacturer produces.

I'm an enthusiastic supporter of greater autonomy for vehicles in the long-run - especially if we use them to liberate people from car ownership through early implementation of shared services and perhaps most significantly tailor their regulated use to be one that provides 'last-mile' public transport access to the suburbs.  

<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/hmi.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="La Trobe University joins others in trialing autonomous buses"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hmi.jpg?itok=y3aFQqKx" title="La Trobe University joins others in trialing autonomous buses" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>La Trobe University joins others in trialing autonomous buses</figcaption></figure>La Trobe University has joined the long-list of other national trial sites where level 4 mini-buses are being trialed in controlled conditions.  The vehicle pictured above, a French-built <a href="http://navya.tech/">Nayva Arma</a>, has had 30 vehicles deployed around the world including along the southern banks of the Swan River in South Perth.

On Catalyst, Jennifer Kent from the School of Architecture, Design and Planning at the University of Sydney highlighted a very distinct problem which needs to be addressed with vision and a solid policy response from the city-thinkers. 

At present, a commuter might travel 10km to their workplace and 10km back to the home on a normal commuting day - a 20km round trip.  In an autonomous scenario where the commuter owns the vehicle, they might get ferried to their workplace 10km away as normal but the car could then be sent back to their residence to be parked during the day, sent back to the workplace at the end of the day and then ferry the commuter back home - a 40km 'driving' day for the vehicle.

In this scenario, the road-space efficiency benefits are moot as the cars would be doing double the amount of driving - and on a wider scale, with many thousands of commuters doing the same thing, it's not hard to see how this could potentially clog streets even more.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t7orQzGDF18" width="100%"></iframe>

Academics from QUT and Monash University have <a href="https://theconversation.com/driverless-vehicles-could-bring-out-the-best-or-worst-in-our-cities-by-transforming-land-use-84127">begun to highlight the areas where autonomous vehicles will transform our cities for better or worse</a> and it's a welcome addition to the discussion because, until this point, the focus has either been on the PR/wow factor of self-driving cars or the ethical questions which are raised if they were to be introduced on a grand scale.

For me the greatest benefit of the transition to an entirely autonomous fleet of cars is the changes we can make to our cities, as highlighted in the linked Conversation article above.

Removing the need to add car parks to new developments?  Fantastic.

Removing on-street car parking spaces on streets where high-frequency public transport exists? Superb.

Removing the wasted space - in the form of surface or multi-level car parks - which litters every city? Great.

Rather than take a wait-and-see approach, urban thinkers should be advocating, loudly, to use the foreseeable transition as an opportunity to right the wrongs of the past century: discouraging business models that focus on owning (and eventually depending) on your own autonomous vehicle.  

It's time to re-take the streets!

 

When you have an hour to spare, I highly recommend <a href="http://iview.abc.net.au/programs/catalyst/SC1602H007S00">watching the Catalyst episode</a> mentioned in this piece.
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Autonomous vehicles: the golden opportunity to right the wrongs of our auto-centric cities

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Alastair Taylor

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