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>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

City of Melbourne

<html><body>
City of Melbourne's draft 2016-17 Annual Plan and Budget was released late last week, with public submissions set to be accepted up until the Future Melbourne Committee decides upon the budget on 16 June 2016.

With total spending of $495.89 million, $399.41 million is expected to be dedicated toward programs and services, while $108.48 million is earmarked for infrastructure programs.

Council's headline project, the Queen Victoria Market, is likely to receive a further $8.45 million, in addition to the $76 million outlaid on acquiring the adjoining Munro site which forms part of the overall project.

<blockquote>
The $250 million renewal of the Queen Victoria Market Precinct is the largest project in Council’s history: a world-class regeneration of a much-loved market that will improve the trader, customer and visitor experience.

We’re now moving from planning to project delivery and this $8.45 million will allow us to implement the Queen Victoria Market Master Plan.

We will soon release a detailed plan outlining how key renewal projects will be managed. In the initial stages, this will include upgrades to trader facilities to address safety issues and better meet trader requirements.
<cite>Lord Mayor Robert Doyle</cite>
</blockquote>

In addition to Queen Vic's redevelopment, a host of further infrastructure projects slated for the forthcoming financial year include:

<ul>
<li>Energy efficient street light renewal: $5 million</li>
	<li>Major streetscape improvements and design: $4.35 million</li>
	<li>Urban landscapes climate adaptation (new streets and associated open spaces): $2.656 million</li>
	<li>Lady Huntingfield Child Care Centre Upgrade: $2.2 million</li>
	<li>Tree planting program (3000 trees): $1.5 million</li>
	<li>Bicycle Improvement Program: $1.56 million</li>
	<li>Green Your Laneway Pilot Project: $1.3 million</li>
	<li>Hawke and Adderley Street open space: $1.1 million</li>
	<li>Flood mitigation new works: $1 million</li>
	<li>Implementation of Docklands Community and Place Plan: $1 million</li>
	<li>Southbank Boulevard upgrading: $1 million</li>
</ul>
The Draft 2016-17 Annual Plan and Budget accommodates for population growth and according shifts in demand for council support and services.

<blockquote>
Melbourne has changed dramatically in the last four years and population growth is one of the biggest challenges we have faced.

Last year our city experienced a 5.5 per cent increase in population growth - an additional 6800 people brought our total population to more than 129,000 people. This is the final budget of this Council and it is focused on smart and sustainable investments.

This will ensure we have a well-planned city to meet the needs of our growing community without compromising its character and liveability.
<cite>Councillor Ken Ong, Chair of the Planning portfolio</cite>
</blockquote>

As elections will be held on Saturday, 22 October 2016 to determine Melbourne's City Council's leadership team, the Draft 2016-17 Annual Plan and Budget is the last under the current leadership regime. This final budget also concludes Council's four year vision, with an emphasis on growth, prosperity and liveability.

According to City of Melbourne, the final budget also cements the current Council’s legacy: one of a Melbourne that is a great place to work, live and visit.
</body></html>

silvermb

Queen Victoria Market advances as part of City of Melbourne's 2016-17 budget

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By both necessity and opportunity, the owners of Hotel Lindrum are seeking approval for a high-rise tower set behind their historic former Romanesque tea warehouse which fronts Flinders Street.

Entity TMG Developments Pty Ltd is pursuing the development in part due to Hotel Lindrum's pending loss of guest car parking in the adjoining multi-level car park which is subject to a development application. In addition to expanded hotel suites and residential apartments, guest car parking will be consolidated onsite under the proposal.

Bates Smart has conceived a slim tower of some 30 levels, substantially lower than the initial site application which called for 53 levels.

<h2>26-30 Flinders Street application summary</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/image5lind.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="882" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5lind.jpg?itok=uHLLjvwg" title="Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Existing 5 storey Hotel Lindrum contains 59 suites</li>
	<li>Proposed 30 level mixed-use tower at 100 metres in height</li>
	<li>Hotel suites numbers expanded to 77</li>
	<li>62 residential apartments: 12 x 1BR, 36 x 2BR, 2 x 3BR, 12 x 4BR</li>
	<li>Total Gross Floor Area: 12,448 square metres</li>
	<li>Two basement levels</li>
	<li>1 podium restaurant space at 276 square metres</li>
	<li>Capacity for 80 bicycles and 38 vehicles in a Multiparker system</li>
</ul>
<h2>What remains of the existing structure</h2>

With over 100 years of history, the existing structure was best known as a billiard and snooker centre with the niece of champion billiard player Walter Lindrum managing the business, hence the Lindrum reference within the current name.

Heritage advisory Bryce Raworth prepared a Heritage Impact Analysis as a response to Council queries toward the development of the building which is included on the heritage overlay schedule of the Melbourne Planning Scheme as HO 1034.

Under current plans it's expected that the majority of the existing structure will be demolished for the proposed tower, with the southern facade to remain intact. Approximately half the eastern and western facades will remain as will limited interior walls according to plans.

<h2>53 levels at a stretch </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/image4lind.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="222" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4lind.jpg?itok=8Bz3-uJE" title="Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>The initial version of 26-30 Flinders Street was submitted during July 2015 with revised plans put forward in recent weeks. City of Melbourne found a number of issues with the original proposal which would have spanned 183.3 metres in height and included 143 residential apartments above 83 hotel suites.

A 'facaded' outcome and a deviation from "accepted conservation standards" were chief amongst Council's concerns, with a "significant height reduction, increased setbacks and refinements to the architectural treatment of the intermediate levels of the tower" included in the revised plans.

The current version also sees an increase in separation from the existing building to tower above by way of an expanded transitional design element separation the two.

<h2>It's a trend</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/image9_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel developments proposed for significant locations"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="220" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_5.jpg?itok=GGQZQkcH" title="Hotel developments proposed for significant locations" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hotel developments proposed for significant locations</figcaption></figure>Hotel Lindrum is the fifth significant building in the eastern reaches of the CBD to see new or expanded hotel facilities proposed. Whilst some projects have faltered, others are poised to advance.

Windsor Hotel and Bourke Street's Palace Theatre are the two highest profile projects, with both now free to pursue expanded or new hotel developments.

The proposed hotel above what was Rosati Restaurant at 95 Flinders Lane failed to eventuate whilst the most recent development incarnation of the Forum Theatre had its processing suspended midway through planning with City of Melbourne.
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Hotel Lindrum the latest to seek high-rise development 

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Minister for Planning Richard Wynne will be required to make a call on one of the CBD's taller proposals after Melbourne City Council chose to reject the scheme.

Lodged during mid 2015 prior to amended planning rules being implemented, proponents for 478-488 Elizabeth Street are seeking approval for a skyscraper that hopes to slot in between two of Melbourne's tallest residential buildings. Melbourne City Council chose last week to show no support for the tower based in part upon inadequate setbacks and equitable development rights for the adjoining site.

Elenberg Fraser have designed the tower for a development team comprising entities L1-2013 Pty Ltd, L2-2013 Pty Ltd and G2-2013 Pty Ltd, with private apartments set above the lower curvaceous levels which have been reserved for a hotel operator in order to manage 198 guest suites.

<h2>478-488 Elizabeth Street planning application summary</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/image28_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As rendered with under construction towers surrounding the proposal. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="815" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_2.jpg?itok=mUobRTGh" title="As rendered with under construction towers surrounding the proposal. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>As rendered with under construction towers surrounding the proposal. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>1,168sqm site currently utilised as a showroom and office</li>
	<li>Proposed 68 level tower at 208.4 metres in height</li>
	<li>Included are 198 hotel suites</li>
	<li>383 apartments: 149 x 1BR, 222 x 2BR, 12 x 3BR</li>
	<li>88 vehicle and 243 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>193sqm cafe at ground level</li>
	<li>Hotel and residential amenities over three levels</li>
	<li>GFA: 44,628sqm</li>
	<li>Estimated project value: $140 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>From the ground up</h2>

A cafe and dual purpose lobbies front Elizabeth Street whilst hotel and residential facilities account for much of the remainder of the podium structure; included within the podium is an all-day restaurant, function spaces and 1,036sqm of communal facilities over level 6 featuring an outdoor terrace.

Hotel suites absorb the initial ten floors above the podium where the tower form is at its widest and concave in shape.

Thereafter nine floors are dedicated to low-rise residential units where the towers form transitions to an altogether more typical rectangular shape. Subsequent floors are dedicated to high-rise apartments whilst the crown is slated for four levels of penthouse living.

Externally the tower begins with a solid complexion at ground level which progressively morphs into a translucent mid section and eventually a glazed crown. Accordingly terrazzo panels are dominant lower levels, rolling into translucent and then silver facade panes. Stainless steel and bronze perforated metal sheeting are also present over the exterior.

<h2>A setback setback</h2>

Below are passages taken from the Report to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee which was tabled last week. Key points of discontent with 478-488 Elizabeth Street from Melbourne City Council's perspective include:

<ul>
<li>The appropriateness of the built form including front, side and rear setbacks</li>
	<li>The proposed tower setback to Elizabeth Street is between 1.6 metres and 4.5 metres. This will result in a dominant built form that overwhelms the street and will compound the undesirable outcome of the nearby towers with limited/no setback to Elizabeth Street..</li>
	<li>The proposal relies upon the neighbouring undeveloped sites to achieve an acceptable tower separation. In the absence of acquired air/light rights over these properties, the tower should provide greater setbacks on its own site in order to guarantee ongoing acceptable internal amenity and to ensure that it does not restrict the development potential of neighbouring sites.</li>
	<li>The proposed rear setback will have a negative impact on the laneway and the existing amenity and development potential of the site to the east.</li>
</ul>
Last week's report also notes that similar issues were raised during a pre-application meeting between the development team and DELWP, yet the development team seem to have a degree of confidence in the tower passing through planning given there has been no fundamental change to the design since its submission.

<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/image40_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Existing and proposed built form conditions. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="321" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image40_3.jpg?itok=IZUkvoZH" title="Existing and proposed built form conditions. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Existing and proposed built form conditions. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

The development team could argue that their proposal is the shortest of three substantial towers on this particular block and that they employ similar if not greater setbacks than either 452 Elizabeth Street or 500 Elizabeth Street; two buildings which in theory were judged under the same planning criteria as 478-488 Elizabeth Street and could therefore act as a precedent.

Melbourne City Council on the other hand have been consistent in recent years regarding their opposition to developments with what they deem as maintaining inadequate setbacks. That similar issues were raised by both DELWP and Melbourne City Council points towards fundamental inadequacies with the design of 478-488 Elizabeth Street.

Six and half on the face of it… and an interesting decision looming for this particular planning application.

<h2>478-488 Elizabeth Street project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: L1-2013 Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: Elenberg Fraser</li>
	<li>Town Planning &amp; Landscape Architect: Urbis</li>
	<li>EDS Consultant: ARK Resources</li>
	<li>Wind &amp; Acoustic Engineer: ViPAC</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Jonson</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: PLP</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: Robert Bird Group</li>
	<li>Services Engineer: Murchie</li>
	<li>3D Visualisation: Pointilism</li>
</ul>
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Room for one more? 478-488 Elizabeth Street in the spotlight

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Melbourne City Council are set to make the early running in 2016 in terms of providing feedback on seven high-rise towers which are still at planning at a state level. This evening's first sitting of the year for the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee will consider the merits of four separate planning applications covering Melbourne's CBD and Fishermans Bend.

In a new planning climate where Melbourne City Council's support or opposition carries a greater weight on the decision making process, the events of this evening may well provide the clearest indication yet on the fate of a number of notable Melbourne projects.

Outlined below are the four projects under consideration this evening.

<h2>850-868 Lorimer Street, Port Melbourne</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/image11_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="850-868 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_5.jpg?itok=2opb2sWu" title="850-868 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>850-868 Lorimer Street. Image courtesy Hayball</figcaption></figure>Melbourne City Council supports the proposal subject to conditions

First appearing on Apartments.com.au during mid 2014, the Fishermans Bend proposal put forward by commercial and industrial property player Goodman Group has been subject to design changes in the interim.

Initially with four towers, the revised scheme now sees three towers ranging between 28 and 44 storeys with the tallest at 144.75 metres. 1,354 apartments and 1,100 car spaces were set for the development when first submitted, although these figures have come down to 1,134 and 936 respectively.

The project has a revised value of half a billion dollars and has the ability to be built over two separate stages, with the taller two buildings forming stage 1.

<h2>111-125 A’Beckett Street, Melbourne</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/image132_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Franklin and Elizabeth perspective. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="716" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image132_0_0.jpg?itok=kJYq_HPM" title="Franklin and Elizabeth perspective. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Franklin and Elizabeth perspective. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Melbourne City Council supports the proposal subject to conditions

Singaporean developer Tong Eng Group is on the road to gaining approval for their first Australian project. 111-125 A’Beckett Street's 632 dwellings would rank it as one of the CBD's largest apartment projects.

At 210 metres the Elenberg Fraser-designed tower would feature a tinted glazing system which would see a base neutral/silver reflective glazing gradually transition to a multi-coloured tinted glazing. Spandrels over the tower would be arranged in an inverse manner giving the project a point of visual difference relative to many of its existing and future neighbours.

Planning documents show that DEWLP held an initially favourable response to the application and coupled with Melbourne City Council's support 111-125 A’Beckett Street looks set to add to the emerging forest of towers in the CBD's northern end.

<h2>478-488 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne</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/image13_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="478-488 Elizabeth Street's lower floors. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="424" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_5.jpg?itok=fGEn3FU4" title="478-488 Elizabeth Street's lower floors. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>478-488 Elizabeth Street's lower floors. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Melbourne City Council does not support the proposal

A trio of nominated entities are behind the proposal which is also the handy work of Elenberg Fraser. The proposal as it stands has fallen foul of Melbourne City Council, with issues such as acceptable tower separation and setbacks, impact upon adjoining as yet undeveloped sites, lack of a five star green star rating and parking arrangements cited.

Mixed-use in nature, 478-488 Elizabeth Street would see 383 apartments, 198 hotel suites and a variety of resident/guest-driven amenities included within the 68 storey structure that would rise 208 metres.

Apartments.com.au will highlight the planning application for 478-488 Elizabeth Street next week.

<h2>212-222 La Trobe Street and 17-25 Little La Trobe Street, Melbourne</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/image14_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A comparison of old and new. Images courtesy JCB and DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="362" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_2.jpg?itok=tiFVbfdt" title="A comparison of old and new. Images courtesy JCB and DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A comparison of old and new. Images courtesy JCB and DCM</figcaption></figure>Melbourne City Council supports the proposal subject to conditions

212-222 La Trobe Street is also subject to planning assessment as Scape Student Living seek to amend the approved scheme from residential to student accommodation use. Previous architects JCB have been replaced by DCM, having been responsible for Scape's first Melbourne project nearby at <a href="/buildings/scape-melbourne-393-swanston-street-melbourne">393 Swanston Street</a>.

Accordingly the revamped La Trobe Street towers hold similar design traits to the Swanston Street project, with 212-222 La Trobe Street gaining a lattice-like structure over its podium. The development team have sought to square off the tower floorplates with Council describing the outcome as "Effectively a ‘dumbing down’ of the building and is not acceptable."

Internally the buildings will hold a cumulative 827 student dwellings, a doubling of the previous scheme which gained approval for 413 dwellings over essentially the same floor area.

Beyond the planning process, regardless of whether the planning minister approves this application or not, there will be plenty more planning work over the next few years in this immediate area due to the CBD North station, as part of the Melbourne Metro Rail project, being mooted to have its surface buildings constructed on or near the Swanston and La Trobe Street corners.
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Melbourne City Council set the planning tone for 2016

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The campaign to green building rooftops has been championed in earnest for some time, but Melbourne City Council has taken a different tact of late by encouraging two existing buildings to install considerable solar power systems in a push toward renewable energy.

101 Collins Street as arguably Melbourne's premier commercial address has invested in the highest commercial solar panel system in the country, with a new 59.4kW system placed around the building's lift motor room. At 56 levels and 195 metres above ground the design of the $230,000 system incorporated allowances for wind loads and took some months to complete.

A modest rebate partially funded the overall cost via the City of Melbourne’s Commercial Solar Rebate Program.

<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/image29_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="101 Collins Street's new system in place. Image courtesy City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="714" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image29_3.jpg?itok=Z8FGgQb6" title="101 Collins Street's new system in place. Image courtesy City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>101 Collins Street's new system in place. Image courtesy City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The 180 panels have been installed vertically to maximise energy from the sun while taking up minimal roof space. They will generate 47,000kWh of electricity per year and will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 59 tonnes each year, which is equivalent to the annual electricity usage of more than 12 residential homes.

This blue chip building is home to some of the world’s most prominent financial institutions: they know a good investment when they see one.
<cite>Lord Mayor Robert Doyle</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
 This system, Solar PV, will generate a virtually guaranteed output of carbon free energy for years to come. It fits with one of our operating principle which is, “Do It Right and Do It Once.”
<cite>Senior Manager of Engineering and Sustainability at 101 Collins St, Ross Boreham</cite>
</blockquote>

Not to be outdone the owners of Russell Street's Hero Building have installed the largest solar system ever retrofitted to a Melbourne apartment block. Above 149 apartments, the new 50kW solar panel system will now power the lighting and ventilation systems in the common areas of the 60 year old building. 

<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/image31_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The distinctive features of Hero Apartments. Image courtesy Peter Maltezos"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image31_1.jpg?itok=TDpE5_mA" title="The distinctive features of Hero Apartments. Image courtesy Peter Maltezos" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The distinctive features of Hero Apartments. Image courtesy Peter Maltezos</figcaption></figure>The original cream brick building acted as the Russell Street Telephone exchange and Post Office and was the <a href="http://heroapartments.com.au/history/">first postwar government building</a> of any size completed after 1945. During 1999 additional floors were added as the building was repurposed into its current residential use.

Costed at $103,857, the building's new solar system was partially funded through the sale of $34,188 of small scale technology certificates (STC’s), a $3000 rebate from the City of Melbourne’s Smart Blocks initiative and financing of $30,000 from the Sustainable Melbourne Fund according to City of Melbourne.

Generating roughly 53,000 kWh of electricity per year, the 200 panels will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 66 tonnes each year with City of Melbourne equating the figure to the annual electricity usage of more than 13 residential homes.

<blockquote>
The solar panels were installed by a local business, Envirogroup. The panels will be paid off in around eight years and will produce ongoing savings on our electricity bills. We’re all proud to live in a boutique building, but now we have the feel good factor that comes from doing something good for the environment as well. We see installing solar as an investment in the value of the whole building.
<cite>Member of the Hero Owners Corporation Committee, Tricia Caswell </cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
There are 58,000 dwellings in the municipality covered by strata schemes and more than 1.5 million square meters of commercial strata titled property. Residents and businesses within these properties can access 100 per cent finance for environmental upgrades through the Sustainable Melbourne Fund. 
<cite>Councillor Arron Wood</cite>
</blockquote>

City of Melbourne has over the previous year facilitated the installation of 415.12kW of solar panels atop apartment buildings, single-family dwellings and commercial buildings within its municipal boundaries. In partnership with VECCI, the City of Melbourne also provides a free service to support businesses in assessing their solar opportunities and obtaining and comparing quotes to install a solar system on their premises.
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Two records set as retrospective solar systems power two Melbourne landmarks

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City of Melbourne have removed two entrants from the race to secure the right to develop the prized Munro site which forms part of the Queen Victoria Market redevelopment. Located at the corner of Queen and Therry streets, the development site which is expected to accommodate a 200 metre residential tower is now a race of three.

Alongside entrenched developers PDG Corporation and Cbus Property, Hansen Yuncken has been named as the third vested party with a chance to partner with City of Melbourne on the project. Traditionally a construction contractor, Hansen Yuncken shapes as the surprise contender of the trio given they have not made their reputation as a developer.

After City of Melbourne purchased the site for $76 million during late 2014, the wheels are now in motion to deliver a landmark development.

<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/site_network_connections_diagram-01_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The Munro site shaded in purple can be seen to the left of image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="419" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/site_network_connections_diagram-01_0.png?itok=5Wm02leH" title="The Munro site shaded in purple can be seen to the left of image" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Munro site shaded in purple can be seen to the left of image</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
This is a rare opportunity for the private sector to partner with Council to deliver an exemplary mixed-use development with all the hallmarks of what we consider smart development: residential apartments, including affordable housing, childcare, family services, commercial and retail uses and the latest in environmental sustainability.

There is significant public interest in the Queen Victoria Market project and we believe it is important to be transparent with the community about the renewal of this iconic site. In 2013, Council committed to the largest investment in its history: up to $250 million to renew the Queen Victoria Market. The development of this site will help fund the renewal program.
<cite>Lord Mayor Robert Doyle</cite>
</blockquote>

An evaluation panel will sit into early next year in order to consider the merits of the three bids. Design, planning, finance, law, sustainability and governance, as well as several other fields will determine which bid will be victorious although City of Melbourne expect a final development agreement will not be in place until mid 2016.

As seen above the expected tower is located adjacent to a section of the CBD which is under intense redevelopment. Nine towers in excess of 200 metres in the immediate vicinity are in development with only Vision Tower close to completion. Proceeds from the mixed-use Munro development will aid City of Melbourne in financing the remainder of Queen Victoria Market's overhaul.

<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/image6_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Projects attributable to PDG Corporation, Cbus Property and Hansen Yuncken"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="347" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_2.jpg?itok=B-EffIo7" title="Projects attributable to PDG Corporation, Cbus Property and Hansen Yuncken" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Projects attributable to PDG Corporation, Cbus Property and Hansen Yuncken</figcaption></figure>With 15 years of progressive expansion under their belt, PDG Corporation are no strangers to large scale projects with Prima Pearl on Southbank the jewel in their crown. Cbus Property too have embarked upon numerous large Melbourne developments although they of late have swung their attention to residential projects with a stable of current and upcoming developments in progress.

Hansen Yuncken which was first established in Melbourne during 1918 is one of the nation's major construction firms. Their current noteworthy build in Melbourne is the revamp of the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, although previous projects have included high-end builds such as Council House 2, Aerial Camberwell and the recently completed $126 million Deakin University Burwood Highway Frontage Building.
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Munro site's shortlist throws up a surprise contender

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Should Melbourne City Council likely provide its support for the revised 447 Collins Street proposal put forward by Cbus Property, it will then require Minister for Planning Richard Wynne to use his powers of intervention to approve the project which transgresses the recent <a href="/tag/planning-scheme-amendment-c262">Amendment C262</a> planning controls.

A joint architectural effort between Woods Bagot and New York-based SHoP Architects, the project has been heavily reduced in height form its initial 295 metre submission to 165 metres. Even so the proposal would be prohibited under Amendment C262 in that it would still cast a shadow over the north bank of the Yarra River.

The development team have requested dispensation in order to facilitate the uniquely shaped development, with the project potentially set to be the first to receive a Ministerial waiver since the September implementation of the revised planning controls.

<h2>Application summary</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/image39_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of 433-455 Collins Street. Image courtesy Woods Bagot/SHoP Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="651" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image39_1.jpg?itok=g-OxVWTA" title="Hero perspective of 433-455 Collins Street. Image courtesy Woods Bagot/SHoP Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of 433-455 Collins Street. Image courtesy Woods Bagot/SHoP Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Plans dated October 27, 2015.</li>
	<li>5,926.6sqm site, currently vacant post recent demolition.</li>
	<li>2,000sqm of new public space at ground level.</li>
	<li>Expected project cost of $1.25 billion.</li>
	<li>Dual 47 level towers connected via skybridge with an overall height of 165 metres.</li>
	<li>269 hotel suites and 315 apartments.</li>
	<li>68,365sqm of A-grade office space.</li>
	<li>500sqm of retail space.</li>
	<li>Basement allowance for 487 vehicles and 501 bicycles.</li>
	<li>161,740sqm GFA.</li>
	<li>Plot ratio of 24.2:1.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Open space for all</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/image46_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposed ground plane activation without Market Street. Image courtesy Woods Bagot/SHoP Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image46_3.jpg?itok=UJ26Odys" title="Proposed ground plane activation without Market Street. Image courtesy Woods Bagot/SHoP Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposed ground plane activation without Market Street. Image courtesy Woods Bagot/SHoP Architects</figcaption></figure>Ground level is slated to hold a tree grove, promenade and ampitheatre which will form the backbone of the project's publicly accessible spaces. Retail outlets will feature around the differing podiums and each will be individually framed with increased design presence to discern themselves form typical glass fronted retail stores which define many contemporary developments.

The natural gradient of the site will see Flinders Lane act as lower ground level with project vehicular access confined to one crossover.

In addition to contributing $500,000 to the possible discontinuation of Market Street toward Collins Street, the development team have allowed for the likelihood of the 1,500sqm parcel melding with 447 Collins Street's new public realm. For their part Melbourne City Council have indicated that the mooted discontinuation of Market Street would cost approximately $3 million and take up to two years to implement.

<h2>Bridging the divide</h2>

Both towers will be separated by a 14 metre span with the project's signature design element, a glass encased 'bridge' at the summit.

<blockquote>
The bridge link will result in a spectacular architectural form that will be uniquely Melbourne and will set this proposal apart from other contemporary architectural responses in this city.

The unique form is separated from the lower tower elements through variations in glazing type, punctuation of balconies to provide texture and the use of balustrades running vertically in line with the tower separation. The upper portion of the bridge link will also incorporate the textured chevron design to further add visual interest and break down the mass ans scale that might otherwise be experienced.
<cite>Urbis: Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>MCC planners in favour</h2>

<blockquote>
The key issues in relation to this amendment are built form, provision of publicly accessible space and overshadowing. The amendment enables the development of the site with a unique building that is generally acceptable in terms of its architecture, height, setbacks, tower separation, internal amenity and façade activation.

A significant amount of publicly accessible space is to be provided within the site which has good access to sunlight, will achieve comfortable wind conditions, incorporate (where applicable) landscaping with deep soil planting and provide true public street connections.

The proposal did comply with the sunlight to public spaces requirements prior to Amendment C262. The amendment is now prohibited because it casts additional shadow across the north bank of the Yarra (15 metres north from the Yarra River’s edge). The application documentation shadow analysis shows that the extent (length) of shadow is significantly reduced when compared with the previous amendment.

<cite>Report to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

It has been recommended that Melbourne City Council support the Master Plan for 447 Collins Street, all but clearing one of the largest hurdles toward the project becoming reality. Minister for Planning Richard Wynne now shapes as the pivotal factor in the approval process.
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A new Melbourne icon squarely in Minister Wynne's hands: 447 Collins Street

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City of Melbourne is seeking public input for a newly launched program that will see a variety of CBD laneways receive a green touch. The Green Your Laneway pilot program will redress some of the two hundred plus lanes in the central city which combined total an area of almost nine hectares.

Initially involving up to four laneways, the regeneration will see a distinctly green touch applied via the use of planter boxes, vertical gardens, climbing plants and trees.

<blockquote>
In a world first, we’ve developed online maps showing the potential to green our city’s laneways. You can use the online map to nominate which laneway in the city you would like to see improved with greenery. There are over 200 lanes in our central city but only a small number of these lanes have greenery.

This is about making Melbourne’s famous laneways more appealing, green and sustainable places. From growing vertical gardens, to planting trees and creating pocket parks, our laneways have enormous potential to become our city’s backyards.

We've got a target to cool the city’s summertime temperatures by 4c through our award winning Urban Forest Strategy and this is yet another step to green the city. By greening our laneways we can create cooler microclimates, capture stormwater and continue to combat the urban heat island effect. It’s good for the environment, good for the look of our city and great for people.
<cite>Cr Arron Wood, Chair of the City of Melbourne’s environment portfolio</cite>
</blockquote>

The online map shows which laneways are most suitable for greening, and is based upon factors such as sunlight and wind exposure. Post the public consultation period a panel of engineers, sustainability professionals, landscape architects and place makers will decide which laneways are to be chosen for the initial regeneration.

<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/com_service_prod-9372390-v1-laneway_greening_melbourne.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne City Council's take on a new green CBD laneway"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="283" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/com_service_prod-9372390-v1-laneway_greening_melbourne.jpg?itok=sDR_vzT3" title="Melbourne City Council's take on a new green CBD laneway" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne City Council's take on a new green CBD laneway</figcaption></figure>Benefits for the scheme as outlined by Melbourne City Council include:

<ul>
<li>Improving biodiversity levels in the central city.</li>
	<li>Provision of more green public open spaces in the central city.</li>
	<li>Reducing noise levels in the city.</li>
	<li>Reinvigorating laneways from waste areas to useable public spaces.</li>
	<li>Insulating buildings from heat and cold, reducing energy expenditure and carbon emissions.</li>
	<li>Reducing the <a href="/news/urban-heat-island-effect-whats-that">urban heat island effect</a> through shading and cooling.</li>
	<li>Reducing vandalism and antisocial behaviour.</li>
	<li>Increasing surrounding property values.</li>
</ul>
Visit Participate Melbourne's <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/greenlaneways">Green Your Laneway</a> page to get involved.
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Get your green on for a new CBD laneway experience

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The City of Melbourne's Future (Planning) Committee convened for their monthly meeting on Tuesday evening, delivering their recommendations on a number of planning applications within central Melbourne.

Of the five applications, four were referred to City of Melbourne for comment by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP); two received conditional support, one received City of Melbourne's objection and another was deferred to next month's meeting. The fifth application saw council express concerns with the proposal.

An overview of each case is provided below.

<h2>TP-2015-515: 383-405 King Street, West Melbourne</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/haileybury.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Haileybury College elevation. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/haileybury.jpg?itok=6Y0W2Tft" title="Haileybury College elevation. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Haileybury College elevation.</figcaption></figure>Haileybury College's plans for a city campus gained support from council with the committee resolving to issue a Notice of Decision to Grant Permit. The application lodged in June sought approval for refurbishment works to the existing building for use as an education centre, comprising of an Early Learning Facility (ages 3 and 4), Junior School (Years Prep to Year 4) and Senior School (Years 9 to 12).

The application received a total of 62 objections during the advertising period relating predominantly to traffic concerns, with council citing key issues for consideration such as the appropriateness of the proposed use in its location, proposed student numbers, potential amenity impacts for residents, proposed signage and car parking, traffic and access arrangements.

<blockquote>
The proposed use is supported as access to education services it is considered to be of benefit to the local community and wider municipality. Subject to a reduction in student numbers and standard amenity conditions being imposed on the permit, the proposed use will not have unreasonable impact on the amenity of the surrounding area.

To ensure the proposed traffic and car parking arrangements are appropriately managed and adhered to, permit conditions are included requiring a formal traffic management plan and green travel plan. Vic Roads is supportive of installing new pedestrians crossing and introducing a new school speed zone in King Street which would assist in pedestrian safety.
<cite>City of Melbourne</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Ministerial referral TPM-2014-47: 65-71 Haig Street, Southbank</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/haig.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="65-71 Haig Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/haig.jpg?itok=C852c2X9" title="65-71 Haig Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>65-71 Haig Street.</figcaption></figure><a href="/news/planning-application-65-71-haig-street-southbank">Covered by Urban.com.au</a> in April, the 55-storey 142 metre tower designed by Fender Katsalidis and abutting the West Gate freeway has received a mixed review from council; concerns relating to the appropriateness of its height and the layout of some apartments.

Despite this council believes these concerns can be addressed via conditions of permit to reduce the overall height to a maximum of 125 metres and via an improved internal layout to selected apartments within the tower.

<blockquote>
…it is acknowledged that there have been recent approvals for buildings in excess of 100 metres on Haig Street such as 57-59 Haig Street and 61-63 Haig Street which are approved at 122 metres and 120 metres respectively. The proposed height is therefore not consistent with the approvals at these sites and therefore a 145.4 metre building is not considered appropriate as it risk creating an undesirable built form character that influences future developments to proposes similar or even taller heights.
<cite>City of Melbourne</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Ministerial referral TPM-2015-1: 32-44 Flinders Street, Melbourne</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/32-44_flinders.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="32-44 Flinders Street in context."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="720" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/32-44_flinders.jpg?itok=M7YYWByX" title="32-44 Flinders Street in context." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>32-44 Flinders Street in context.</figcaption></figure>Now at 56 levels and 181 metres - down from an initial height of 65-storeys and 212 meters - the Planning Officer's report to the Future Melbourne Committee recommends that council object to the proposal on the grounds of height, plot ratio, setbacks and internal amenity to apartments and that the proposal represents an over development of the site.

This is based on a plot ratio of 30:1 across the site, despite the application not being affected by Amendment C262 which calls for a plot ratio of 24:1 and setbacks of five metres to street frontages, or the proposal sitting within a height control area. 32-44 Flinders Street's overshadowing of Birrarung Marr is also a cause of concern for council.

<blockquote>
The proposed tower would be perceived as a wall of towers lining the northern side of Flinders Street. The tower would both overwhelm and overshadow Flinders Street and overshadow one of the City’s most significant public parks - Birrarung Marr. The continuation of Spark Lane connecting to Sargood Lane is a welcome contribution to Melbourne’s laneway network.

Having regard to the immediate context, the proposed tower is considered to be an over scaled proposition. We recommend an overall reduction in car parking and for the applicant to further increase inhabited space within the podium.

For the northern component we suggest consideration for moving the entry foyer closer to Flinders Lane. For the southern component we recommend a significant reduction in height to ensure no additional overshadowing of Birrarung Marr, increased setbacks, and the exclusion of ‘saddle back (sic)’ bedrooms.
<cite>City of Melbourne</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Ministerial referral TPM-2015-12: 346-376 Queen Street, Melbourne</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/queensplace.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queens Place's highly articulated podium."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/queensplace.jpg?itok=ly1WTg9Z" title="Queens Place's highly articulated podium." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queens Place's highly articulated podium.</figcaption></figure>The twin tower proposal is known as Queens Place and allows for dual schemes: an OLS conforming scheme of 68-storeys (206 and 209 metres respectively) and an alternate non-conforming scheme 79-storeys (246 and 249 metres). The applicants submitted revised designs on September 3 with the following key changes:

<ul>
<li>Minimum five metre setbacks provided from the proposed towers to all street frontages</li>
	<li>The core of Tower 1 has shifted approximately four metres to the east</li>
	<li>Ground Level escalators have shifted to allow for improved public realm outcomes</li>
	<li>Increase in active uses adjacent to La Trobe Street</li>
	<li>Revision of A’Beckett Street connection to plaza and shifting of airlock location</li>
	<li>Increase chamfered setback to La Trobe Street podium at levels 3 and 4 to open views to Welsh Church</li>
</ul>
The proposal received a unanimous vote of support from the City of Melbourne, with the final decision to be made by the Planning Minister. An application to penetrate the OLS will need to be made to aviation authorities in order to proceed with the 79-storey twin design.

<blockquote>
The site sits within an area that is undergoing significant change with a number of high-rise developments recently completed, under construction or approved and yet to be constructed. Based on a clear understanding of the context, the proposed development is generally consistent with the emerging built form character of Hoddle Grid and the community’s vision of a bold, inspirational and sustainable city.

The proposed development offers a reasonable response to the opportunities and constraints of the site and its immediate context. However, this relies on permit conditions requiring key changes including minimum five metre tower setbacks to all street frontages, improved public realm outcomes at ground level, improved accessibility of new through block links and an increase in active uses adjacent to La Trobe Street, improved apartment layouts including deletion of long saddle back bedrooms, an increased chamfered setback to La Trobe Street podium to open views through to the Welsh Church heritage building, and alternative wind mitigation strategies to achieve walking comfort.
<cite>City of Melbourne</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Ministerial referral TPM-2013-15: 150-160 Turner Street, Port Melbourne</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/150_turner.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="150 Turner Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/150_turner.jpg?itok=ZxRWR_qs" title="150 Turner Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>150 Turner Street.</figcaption></figure>First covered on Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/urban-com-aus-top-5-picks-planning-assessment-july-2013">two years ago</a>, 150 Turner Street by Artisan Architects has been met with strong opposition from the City of Melbourne, with council objecting to the development on the basis that the concerns raised can not be addressed via permit conditions and will require a redesign.

<blockquote>
The proposed development will result in unreasonable wind tunnel effects at ground level, a poor urban design outcome with regards to wind mitigation measures and fails to provide the ground level and tower setbacks sought by the Strategic Framework Plan. The proposal lacks dwelling diversity, and a majority of apartments rely on either a ‘saddle-back’ or borrowed light arrangements for the bedrooms which results in poor internal amenity.

It is considered that these significant concerns cannot be addressed via permit conditions, in particular as the wind measures and required setbacks would require a significant redesign of the tower form.
<cite>City of Melbourne</cite>
</blockquote>
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Laurence Dragomir

The Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee makes some decisive calls

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The City of Melbourne has released its draft City Road master plan and published a plethora of documents on its <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/city-road">Participate Melbourne</a> website.

The proposed changes include introducing planted median strips in the Kings Way to Power Street section of City Road and in Alexandra Avenue. Slip lanes at the major intersection of City Road and Southbank Boulevard look set to get the chop and there are 3 new pedestrian crossings proposed at Clarke Street, Balston Street; and on Alexandra Avenue to provide a higher quality link between the Alexandra and Queen Victoria gardens.

<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/cityrd-masterplan-proposed-changes.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposed changes to City Road. Map from Participate Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cityrd-masterplan-proposed-changes.jpg?itok=-I5th8EQ" title="Proposed changes to City Road. Map from Participate Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposed changes to City Road. Map from Participate Melbourne</figcaption></figure>The intersection of Moray Street / Queensbridge Street / City Road (with Kings Way flying over the top) - which once had a proposal to have a roundabout installed dubbed 'Southbank circus' - is set to see improved pedestrian crossings. There is a proposal to reimagine the space in the Kings Way undercroft and likewise the pedestrian crossings on the Southbank Boulevard / City Road intersection are set to be improved thanks to the removal of the slip lanes.

The intersection with Sturt Street, City Road and Southgate Avenue is set to see improvements as well.

A major pan-Southbank cycling route is also proposed with cyclists being funneled toward St Kilda Road (coming from the south west) via City Road to Balston Street, then along Kavanagh Street and Southbank Boulevard.

<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/city_rd_west_existing.png" rel="gallery-all" title="City Road west, existing street cross-section. Image Participate Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/city_rd_west_existing.png?itok=pBay-GWr" title="City Road west, existing street cross-section. Image Participate Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>City Road west, existing street cross-section. Image Participate Melbourne</figcaption></figure>The western end of City Road is proposed to have a somewhat noteworthy road reconfiguration with a reduction in footpath width along the northern side, the removal of parking on the southern side and the introduction of fully separated bike lanes and bus/transit lanes.

<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/city_rd_west_proposed.png" rel="gallery-all" title="City Road west, proposed street cross-section. Image Participate Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/city_rd_west_proposed.png?itok=tXk8MMF-" title="City Road west, proposed street cross-section. Image Participate Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>City Road west, proposed street cross-section. Image Participate Melbourne</figcaption></figure>At the intersection of Sturt Street and City Road a new pedestrian bridge is proposed to enhance connectivity between St Kilda Road and City Road as well as the River. A new ramp from St Kilda Road, located to the southside of Hamer Hall, <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/city-road#btn-action-4">is also proposed</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/city_rd_st_kilda_rd.png" rel="gallery-all" title="A screenshot from Participate Melbourne of the proposed pedestrian link over City Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="208" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/city_rd_st_kilda_rd.png?itok=g51syW8b" title="A screenshot from Participate Melbourne of the proposed pedestrian link over City Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A screenshot from Participate Melbourne of the proposed pedestrian link over City Road</figcaption></figure>All in all 40 on street car spaces are set to be removed, located mainly up the western end of City Road and draft master plan predicts the main car journey impacts will be limited to an extra two minutes in travel time for westbound journeys in the AM peak.

The <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/city-road#btn-benefits">primary benefits</a> according to the draft master plan include reduced walking distances between pedestrian crossings on City Road (average distances reduced from 240m to 170m), 9,000 square metres of new public space, 1,280 square metres of new footpath space, a net gain of 108 new trees and three upgraded bus and tram stops.

The City of Melbourne will be running walking tours where participants will be able to find out more about the proposed actions in the draft master plan on Wednesday 30th September between 5:15pm and 6pm, Thursday 8th October between 1pm and 1:45pm and on Saturday 10th October between 10:30am and 11:15am. Participants need to RSVP on the Participate Melbourne website and the tours will depart from Southbank Library.

To view the draft master plan and provide your own feedback on the draft master plan, visit the <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/city-road#overview">Participate Melbourne website</a>.

Lead image credit: Participate Melbourne.
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