A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Joel Robinson

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

Metropolitan Planning Authority

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The NSW Government plans to call Sydney’s new hi-tech city at Bringelly Bradfield, in honour of the engineer John Bradfield who helped shape Sydney. 
The city centre will be built on the doorstep of the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport. 

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317]

It will grow into Sydney’s third city, to take its place alongside Sydney and Parramatta.

<img alt="" height="1560" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/bradfield_map.jpg" width="1600"> 
  
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said Bradfield will define Australia’s first 22nd Century City, which will be a key driver of economic growth and deliver up to 200,000 jobs across the Western Parkland City. 
  
Bradfield was a renowned engineer who designed and oversaw the construction of both the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney’s original railway network.

The area has been referred to as the Aerotropolis Core until now.

<img alt="" height="895" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/amrf.jpg" width="1600"> 
  
“This area will be transformed into a thriving city centre, home to advanced manufacturing, research, science and education," she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227] 
  
Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the area to be named Bradfield is more than 100 hectares north of the existing suburb of Bringelly.  
  
The NSW Government has 18 foundation partner commitments, including with Suez, Siemens, Hitachi, Sydney Water and Northrup Grumman, and continues to formalise relationships with a number of other partners, including FedEx, Romar Engineering and Quickstep.
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Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the area named Bradfield is more than 100 hectares, north of the existing suburb of Bringelly. 

jchancellor

Bradfield, Sydney's newest city

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Victoria's Metropolitan Planning Authority (MPA) is readying two additional National Employment Clusters that will look to build upon the already robust local economies surrounding both La Trobe University and Sunshine.

Both Clusters maintain a mixed-use employment base underpinned by health, manufacturing, services and education. Designated National Employment Clusters, the MPA intends to allow for the creation of new employment opportunities within both Clusters via enhanced policies, amenities and transport links.

La Trobe Cluster which is the more advanced of the two includes the business and industrial areas surrounding Heidelberg, Bundoora and Preston. Key areas earmarked for change include La Trobe University, the Heidelberg/Austin Hospital medical precinct, Heidelberg West industrial precinct and the Northland Urban Renewal Precinct.

The latter site overlaps with Darebin City Council's earlier plans to <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/darebin-council-plans-highrise-housing-and-job-hub-for-east-preston/story-fnglenug-1226704903995%5C">create a high-rise residential zone abutting Northland</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/image6mpa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The La Trobe Cluster. Image: Metropolitan Planning Authority"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="469" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6mpa.jpg?itok=WanRb0H3" title="The La Trobe Cluster. Image: Metropolitan Planning Authority" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The La Trobe Cluster. Image: Metropolitan Planning Authority</figcaption></figure>Key ideas behind the La Trobe Cluster include modernising employment areas, providing a ‘turn-up-go’ bus service for people to get around the cluster, attracting additional allied health services to the precinct and rezoning current industrial land for future mixed-use developments, including a diverse range of housing. 

Whilst controversial at the time of its approval, Bundoora's Parc Vue development seen below looks to be the template for many higher density developments that will invariably call La Trobe Cluster home in the future.  

<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/v10_-_park_vue_stage_3_-_v10_aerial_-_final_2000_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Parc Vue presents as the first of many. Image: Future Estate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v10_-_park_vue_stage_3_-_v10_aerial_-_final_2000_1.jpg?itok=7CD7WaoR" title="Parc Vue presents as the first of many. Image: Future Estate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Parc Vue presents as the first of many. Image: Future Estate</figcaption></figure>To Melbourne's west and the Sunshine National Employment Cluster is taking shape. Including neighbouring St Albans, the Sunshine Cluster is set to receive a massive boost in jobs, following on from the recent $2 billion in investment in the area.

Among recent projects are the Sunshine Station upgrade through Regional Rail Link, the creation of the Victoria University Construction Futures facility and what shapes as the $200 million Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital. These are in addition to projects such as ABD Group's Foundry complex which has given Sunshine its first taste of high density living and the new $52 million Brimbank Community and Civic Centre.

The MPA has been working with Council to create a series of key ideas that will underpin the Sunshine Cluster. Rezoning sites to promote commercial uses, greening the suburb and increased services are all on the agenda.

The MPA will now initiate a period of community feedback in order to create the principles that will underpin the Sunshine Cluster.

<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/image4su.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Foundry and the Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital. Images: ABD Group and Western Health"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="231" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4su.jpg?itok=d6nUNCrY" title="Foundry and the Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital. Images: ABD Group and Western Health" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Foundry and the Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital. Images: ABD Group and Western Health</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
We are confident the Sunshine Cluster has and will continue to attract significant development and be a focus of healthcare services, research, education, transport business and retail services for Melbourne’s West.

Brimbank City Council looks forward to continuing to work with the Metropolitan Planning Authority and the State Government on this important project.
<cite>Chair of Brimbank Administrators, John Watson</cite>
</blockquote>

Both the La Trobe and Sunshine Clusters follow in the footsteps of the <a href="/news/consultation-begins-for-the-monash-employment-cluster">Monash National Employment Cluster</a> which was outlined previously on Apartments.com.au. Visit <a href="http://shapevictoria.vic.gov.au/">Shape Victoria</a> to view further information on the Clusters and provide feedback.
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silvermb

MPA initiates two further National Employment Clusters

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The Metropolitan Planning Authority has turned to the combined areas of Huntingdale, Clayton, Mulgrave, Notting Hill and Springvale; this area has been dubbed the Monash Employment Cluster.

Consultation has now kicked off ahead of changes to planning rules across commercial and industrial land that aims to encourage development in order increase jobs and services throughout the area.

A Victorian Government media release talks of the broader Monash area having the capacity to draw more investment through smart planning, improved amenities and better transport connections in addition to new plans that will encourage more cafes, hotels, services and entertainment to be built in the east as well as cycle ways and pedestrian links.

<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/monash_cluster.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Map of the employment cluster from the MPA's brochure"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="619" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/monash_cluster.png?itok=MZ25ZGq5" title="Map of the employment cluster from the MPA's brochure" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Map of the employment cluster from the MPA's brochure</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
We are changing the planning rules for the broader Monash area with input from the community so there is a long-term plan for jobs growth in place. Well-planned employment clusters give people living in the middle and outer suburbs good access to jobs close to where they live and also increases local services.
<cite>Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning</cite>
</blockquote>

The MPA-driven website has <a href="http://shapevictoria.vic.gov.au/monash-employment-cluster">four draft principles and ideals</a>: create better places to work and do business, better connections within the south east corridor, better connect people to places in Monash employment cluster and support a greener and more attractive place with better community services.

The Monash Employment Cluster is currently underpinned by Monash University, with surrounding commercial and research uses also prevalent. Testament to the popularity of the area is Frasers Property's 211 Wellington Road development which has seen a rapid uptake and delivery of various commercial buildings over a 3.47 hectare site, with the latest commercial build seen below.

These commercial builds are in addition to Monash University itself which has rolled a out a string of major developments on campus in recent years.

<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/img_0393.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Frasers Property has found success with 211 Wellington Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0393.jpg?itok=uPBHmjZC" title="Frasers Property has found success with 211 Wellington Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Frasers Property has found success with 211 Wellington Road</figcaption></figure>The first upcoming event on May 4th will be a Monash Business and Investment Seminar and Networking event and there is an <a href="http://www.shapevictoria.vic.gov.au/index.php?cID=191">online survey</a> seeking responses from the community on their thoughts and ideas for the Monash Employment Cluster. The survey closes on May 31st 2016.

Public engagement on the draft framework plan is expected during early 2017 and implementation in mid 2017.

http://shapevictoria.vic.gov.au/monash-employment-cluster
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Alastair Taylor

Consultation begins for the Monash Employment Cluster

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Last week's announcement of funding for various Broadmeadows infrastructure projects has cast the often maligned suburb back into the urban renewal spotlight.

Designated a Major Activity Centre on the Metropolitan Planning Authority's citywide <a href="http://planvic.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Viewer/index?appid=b9ac624e3b344a4db2cefaa7a39bea2d">interactive project map</a>, the heart of Broadmeadows is set to receive $14.3 million from the State Government in order to continue its revitalisation, with Broadmeadows Train Station and Boadmeadows Town Hall accounting for the lion's share of funding.

More specifically the funding will:

<ul>
<li>Add $7m toward the $20.2 million refurbishment price tag for the Broadmeadows Town Hall, creating a community focused hub</li>
	<li>Contribute $4m to a new Broadmeadows Station northern entrance, concourse and toilets, and partial pedestrian subway upgrade</li>
	<li>Allow beautificalion works to commence along Pascoe Vale Road with $1 million for tree planting and improved crossings</li>
	<li>Add a further $2.1m to Meadowlink, the 3.2km bicycle, pedestrian and open space link that traverses Broadmeadows town centre</li>
</ul>
<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/image67_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Broadmeadows town centre from above. Image: MPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="627" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67_1.jpg?itok=whyfOC56" title="Broadmeadows town centre from above. Image: MPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Broadmeadows town centre from above. Image: MPA</figcaption></figure>Whilst not necessarily a startling figure, the $14.3 million investment set aside in the 2016/2017 Budget does confirm the State Government's ongoing commitment in pushing Broadmeadows through as an activity centre. The measured flow of capital into Broadmeadows does carry similar traits to the Revitalising Central Dandenong project where the heart of Dandenong received considerable State funding in order to upgrade infrastructure.

Thus far, both the State Government and Hume City Council have already invested heavily in Broadmeadows, with projects such as Hume Global Learning Centre, the Hume School Regeneration project, the state-of-the-art basketball stadium and the local aquatic centre recent additions.

All vested parties will hope that Broadmeadows will follow a similar path as Dandenong in that the south eastern suburb has since managed to attract a considerable level of private investment post public expenditure, with both commercial and apartment developments flowing into the suburb.

<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/image70_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Future Broadmeadows and surrounds. Image:MPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="528" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_3.jpg?itok=3n_MUPGN" title="Future Broadmeadows and surrounds. Image:MPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Future Broadmeadows and surrounds. Image:MPA</figcaption></figure>On a grander scale, redevelopment surrounding Broadmeadows' town centre will eventually encapsulate areas known as Northmeadows and Eastmeadows. With up to 60 hectares of underutilised industrial land on the agenda, the prospects for the creation of new urban villages is high.

Northmeadows is situated east of Broadmeadows proper and according to planning documents has scope to include essentially the full gamut of uses - namely housing, employment, commercial, recreation and leisure. Eastmeadows is potentially a long term regeneration area with a mixture of housing options and diverse employment earmarked for the area.

It is likely that both zones will incorporate a higher degree of housing density.

The Metropolitan Planning Authority and Hume City Council are calling for public feedback during the initial Community Engagement Phase, with the intention of creating a structure plan for Broadmeadows and surrounds which accommodates public expectations.

Information on Broadmeadows' regeneration can be found <a href="http://www.shapevictoria.vic.gov.au/broadmeadows">here</a>, with an associated <a href="http://shapevictoria.vic.gov.au/broadmeadows/survey">public consultation survey</a> also available.

<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/image74_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A conceptualised new Broadmeadows. Image: MPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="256" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image74_0.jpg?itok=tEIj0K3Q" title="A conceptualised new Broadmeadows. Image: MPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A conceptualised new Broadmeadows. Image: MPA</figcaption></figure>
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Broadmeadows receives a boost as urban regeneration beckons

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The term ‘urban sprawl’ often used in media commentary conjures up images of desolate new suburbs on the urban fringe disconnected from their local environment.

The reality – as with most urban myths – is quite different. More than 50 new suburbs have been delivered through the state’s greenfield program, helping Victoria keep pace with Melbourne’s thriving population and providing affordable housing options for families.

The current growth of Melbourne is largely to the south east in Clyde, Cranbourne and Officer – to the north and north west in Mernda, Mickleham, Sunbury and to the west and south west around Rockbank, Werribee, Point Cook and Wyndham Vale.

The Metropolitan Planning Authority has learnt from past planning mistakes, and designs these new suburbs with the aim of making them some of the greenest in Melbourne.

For instance, more than 20 per cent of land in greenfield areas is dedicated to open space – the majority being waterways, conservation, sports-fields and local parks. It should also be noted that many of the greenfield areas have some of the best bike paths in Victoria.

In greenfield areas, biodiversity values are not only maintained but enhanced, with creeks and wetlands being protected and in many cases rehabilitated. Planning for greenfield areas also provides strategic protection and a clear framework for the management of native vegetation, and the habitat of threatened species such as the Growling Grass Frog.

Access to transport is critical to encouraging active transport – that’s why our new suburbs are now well designed and walkable. It is a little known fact that 90% of dwellings are built within 1 km of a local town centre that has all the things you need: a supermarket, primary school, medical clinic – even a wine bar!

Greenfield suburbs are also designed to reduce car dependence.

For instance, two recently approved plans for new suburbs in Wyndham and Whittlesea directed the building of houses close to current and future railway stations, providing more sustainable travel options for future residents.

The design of our new suburbs also create a greener lifestyle by:

<ul>
<li>Providing options for alternative modes of transport via walking, cycling and nearby bus links, therefore reducing carbon emissions;</li>
	<li>Supporting housing construction with appropriate solar orientation to reduce reliance on fossil fuels for heating, cooling and lighting; and</li>
	<li>Promoting the conservation, reuse and recycling of water through the use of recycled water.This all helps protect Melbourne’s status as one of the world’s most liveable cities.</li>
</ul>
Lastly, achieving greater housing density is often cited as critical to preventing sprawl and achieving a more sustainable community. In most greenfield areas the average density of development is at least 16.5 dwellings per hectare. That’s the same as some of Melbourne’s old inner suburbs and is achieved by providing a mix of detached and medium density housing.

While there is always room for improvement, our newest suburbs are being designed to provide families with a modern and more environmentally sustainable lifestyle than ever before.

Peter Seamer is CEO of the <a href="http://www.mpa.vic.gov.au/">Metropolitan Planning Authority</a>, the body entrusted to implement the initiatives and vision set out in the Victorian Government’s metropolitan planning strategy, Plan Melbourne.
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peterseamer

Greenfield suburbs: greener than you think

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The recent news that the State Government will proceed with a review of the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan means it's time to have a look at the current state of play up to this point.

The City of Port Phillip have been listing the majority of all proposed and approved planning applications within Fishermans Bend as part of any planning application that is lodged with the council within their part of the urban renewal area.

The latest applications which have been lodged and are currently being assessed by the City of Port Phillip are 165-167 and 179 Gladstone Street in South Melbourne.

<h2>Approved</h2>

<ul>
<li>161 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</li>
	<li>164 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne</li>
	<li><a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">6-78 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/15-85-gladstone-street-south-melbourne">15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/buildings/normanby-199-201-normanby-road-southbank">199-201 Normanby Road, Southbank</a></li>
	<li><a href="/buildings/gravity-tower-89-montague-street-south-melbourne">89-103 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/134-buckhurst-street-south-melbourne">134-150 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
</ul>
<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/main_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The approved 15-87 Gladstone Street for sale. Image courtesy CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/main_3.jpg?itok=ch8KM3mt" title="The approved 15-87 Gladstone Street for sale. Image courtesy CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The approved 15-87 Gladstone Street for sale. Image courtesy CBRE</figcaption></figure>Approved by the Planning Minister during 2010, prior to the rezoning of Fishermans Bend

<ul>
<li><a href="/new-apartments/400-430-city-road-southbank">400-430 City Road, Southbank</a></li>
</ul>
​These eight projects provide for 4,349 dwellings or roughly 8,000 new residents for Fishermans Bend should they be built. This equates to approximately 10% of the envisaged final population of around 80,000 residents.

<h2>Proposed</h2>

City of Port Phillip have given their provisional decision on the majority of all outstanding planning applications which have yet to be ruled upon by the MPA. Projects which have Council support include:

<ul>
<li><a href="/new-apartments/60-82-johnson-street-south-melbourne">60-82 Johnson Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/228-238-normanby-road-southbank">228-232 Normanby Road, Southbank</a></li>
	<li>101 Salmon Street, Port Melbourne</li>
	<li>165-167 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</li>
	<li>179 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</li>
</ul>
Applications which have not gained support or in which City of Port Phillip have marked concerns include:

<ul>
<li><a href="/buildings/134-142-ferrars-street-south-melbourne">134-142 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li>2-4 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</li>
	<li>​​320-332 Plummer Street, Port Melbourne</li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/171-183-ferrars-street-south-melbourne">171-183 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li>261, 271-281 Ingles Street Port Melbourne</li>
</ul>
It's worth noting that 60-82 Johnson Street is according to the MPA website close to a final decision, although their latest update was provided during January. It's believed the project is either approved or very close to.

<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/image-tools_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="60-82 Johnson street. Image courtesy Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image-tools_0.jpg?itok=cFzNy-jZ" title="60-82 Johnson street. Image courtesy Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>60-82 Johnson street. Image courtesy Rothelowman</figcaption></figure><h2>And of the rest?</h2>

City of Port Phillip are not listing any Lorimer Precinct project within their <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/FBURA_Planning_Apps_-_MPA_-_Apr_15.pdf">April application summary</a>, given the area falls within the City of Melbourne. All the applications below essentially abut Docklands, with ten towers spread across four development sites.

<ul>
<li><a href="/new-apartments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">351-387 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/150-turner-street-port-melbourne">150-160 Turner Street, Port Melbourne</a></li>
	<li>85-93 Lorimer Street, Port Melbourne</li>
	<li><a href="/developments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">850-858 Lorimer Street, Port Melbourne</a></li>
</ul>
Very much present on either respective architect's website as being active, yet not present on either the MPA register or City of Port Phillip's summary are both South Melbourne projects seen below. One wonders where the fortunes of these two developments lie?

<ul>
<li><a href="/new-apartments/166-168-buckhurst-street-south-melbourne">166-168 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
	<li><a href="/buildings/south-15-thistlethwaite-street-south-melbourne">15-35 Thistlethwaite Street, South Melbourne</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>Addendum</h2>

There are indeed two April PDFs in circulation at the moment, showing either MPA or COPP delegated projects. Safe to say both above projects and a handful of newly found planning applications are alive and well.
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Fishermans Bend proposals: an overview

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Following on from <a href="/news/matthew-guy-on-the-mpa-transport-advice-and-pans-ops">Alastair's article on Monday</a>, Apartments.com.au continues its coverage of the Plan Melbourne Strategy by today taking a look at the Reformed Zones, particularly the new Residential Zones - setting the scene for what is effectively Part 2 of our interview with Planning Minister Matthew Guy.

July 1st 2013 saw the introduction of five new zones across the state - Residential Growth Zone, General Residential Zone, Neighbourhood Residential Zone, Commercial 1 Zone and Commercial 2 Zone. Replacing the nine previous zones, in an effort to streamline the planning process and encourage and enable ..."a broader mix of new businesses nearer to existing services and where people choose to live. The reformed residential zones also aim to better manage growth and protect liveability and neighbourhood character."

The strategy behind the new residential zones is best summarised by the following paragraphs, taken from Plan Melbourne:

<blockquote>
Reformed residential zones were introduced across Victoria on 1 July 2013 to better manage growth and protect liveability and neighbourhood character. The certainty provided by the reformed residential zones enables local governments to clearly determine the scale and location of new unit, townhouse and apartment development, and greatly improves local governments’ ability to plan for this type of development with confidence that the zones will influence outcomes on the ground.
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The new zones are the Residential Growth Zone, General Residential Zone and Neighbourhood Residential Zone. The Reformed Zones Advisory Committee has suggested that metropolitan local governments seek to apply each of the zones together, to provide a balance between protecting local attributes and addressing ongoing housing needs. In locations where the community is seeking to promote housing diversity and housing supply, it might apply the Residential Growth Zone. Alternatively, for locations where the community is seeking to limit housing change and population growth, it might apply the Neighbourhood Residential Zone. It is challenging for communities to clearly define locations for housing growth and locations for protection from change. However, the reformed residential zones will ensure that change will occur according to community expectations.
</blockquote>

<div class="rtejustify">See table below for a summary of each new zone.</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify"><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/Reformed%20Zones%20Table.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Reformed%20Zones%20Table.jpg?itok=Xu03Mw_0" typeof="Image"></a></div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">And a look at how these zones may be applied, for example, to Dandenong:</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify"><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/Dandenong%20Zones.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Dandenong%20Zones.jpg?itok=rl9Id4WS" typeof="Image"></a></div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">And now a word from the Minister:</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">UM: One of the issues with Melbourne 2030 is basically that it had the same broad aims of reducing development in suburban streets away from transport and concentrating development within activity centres. One of the things that happened was councils said we don't need development in backstreets so we'll discourage that but also they used the structure planning process to introduce controls that were so harsh that they were basically saying they don't want growth in activity centres and also don't really want growth anywhere. So we're not sure whether with the new zones some councils will try and propose very low or no growth areas. Can you explain how the new zones will be implemented?</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">MG: The new zones, in particular the C1 (Commercial 1) zone, is like (the) Capital City Zone throughout every Municipality. The C1 is very flexible and it is a zone that encourages growth within it. Someone in the development industry said to me "well why do you allow Glen Eira to put 76% of their residential areas into Neighbourhood Residential (Zone)? You've locked the whole place up!". Well I say to them you've got to view it within the context of all the zone structure within the municipality. They've got a decent amount of C1, which again, residential has a right of use, the ability to build in that area is strong. There's the urban renewal precinct in Caulfield, then there's two sites down south which are quite significant and you look at the population trends in there,and you look at the Bureau of Statistics forecasts and they can almost get 60% more dwelling numbers (than) what they need to the year 2030 in the areas that they've got than they would under the current system. They can get it through the C1, through the Urban Renewal Precincts and they can get it through the General Residential Zone. So it's about looking at all the zones in the municipality rather than just bits of it.</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">I was in Banyule today and the council there is again saying that they'll probably only have a third of the municipality that they'll ask for Neighbourhood (Residential Zone), most will be in General (Residential Zone) and they'll tweak the General - there'll be a General Plus if you like, and a General Minus. So a general with a little less development and a general with a bit of a development focus to it and they'll use the (Residential) Growth Zone in a number of strategic sites and they're saying in the Structure, in terms of estimates on dwellings vastly exceed what we've been told to (provide) even under previous Governments and they've dropped off. So it's just about making sure they've got the right...not just the right mix but the right ability to get supply... and they do but it's in the defined areas which the C1 has helped enormously.</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">Look out for Nicholas Harrison's conclusion to Apartments.com.au's epic "Conversations with Matthew Guy" Trilogy in the coming days. Peace out.</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div> </div>
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Laurence Dragomir

Conversations with Matthew Guy, Episode II - In the Zone

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As the first in a series of articles revolving around an interview held with State Planning Minister Matthew Guy in the wake of the <a href="http://www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au/" target="_blank">Plan Melbourne</a> strategy release, today's article centres around the <a href="http://www.gaa.vic.gov.au/" target="_blank">Metropolitan Planning Authority</a> (MPA) which was similarly launched last week; as a successor to the Growth Areas Authority .  Whilst still in its infancy, the Metropolitan Planning Authority's website carries the following description:

<blockquote>
The MPA has been created to implement the initiatives and vision set out in the Victorian Government’s metropolitan planning strategy, Plan Melbourne. As well as working with its partners in planning, the MPA will implement plans to achieve real outcomes. It will also focus on planning and infrastructure coordination in key strategic areas that are of significance to the state, throughout Melbourne’s inner and outer suburbs as well as regional centres. The MPA is an independent statutory body with a broad, facilitative role to work with local councils, other government agencies and the planning and development industry to help deliver exciting Greenfield and Urban Renewal projects across Victoria.
</blockquote>

The MPA will have a wide-ranging city development policy brief to advise Spring Street on, and one area of particular interest is transport.  As stated by the Planning Minister in our interview last week, currently there are multiple agencies - the likes of VicRoads and PTV to name a few - which advise Government on infrastructure investment priorities.  

Going forward this is set to change with a single body - the MPA - assuming the role of primary provider of advice once analysis drawn from existing agencies is complete.  

<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/mpa-slider.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="http://urbanmelbourne.info/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/mpa-slider.jpg?itok=86LMLUPd" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

The Minister's words from Friday:

AT: Will government decisions on how to prioritise large transport infrastructure projects - both in designated urban renewal areas and in areas which councils rezone - be influenced by the Metropolitan Planning Authority?

MG: Very much so, one of the key reasons to establish the MPA is because in the past we've had transport projects that are being funded to areas that are being developed in say 10 years time, but areas that are being developed now having no transport infrastructure projects underway - we need to refocus priorities in this area. Current advice comes from a range of sources: PTV, VicRoads, The Department, Growth Areas authority, Water Authorities - it comes from so many bodies.

It [the MPA] is the first time we've actually said the advice on transport infrastructure priorities will come into one body - the Metropolitan Planning Authority - and the single authority will then provide advice to Government to say for example "it's Government's decision but we (the authority) would recommend Government should look at putting A, B and C project into a given area because population growth is coming through now or in two years time". It's about having one agency give advice to government on how to co-ordinate infrastructure.

AT: So that advice provided by the MPA, will that also include funding options for individual projects as well?

MG: No.

Editor's note: An answer to a separate follow up question - post interview - on which authority or mechanism will explore funding options for projects which the MPA advises the Government to proceed on received after original publish time, the answer provided by a spokesperson for the Planning Minister is provided:

The Treasury department will remain responsible for determining funding options for transport projects, including public transport, road and cycling projects. However the MPA will be able to propose options. For instance, the Growth Areas Authority (now MPA) already does long-term planning and projections of DCP and GAIC revenues in growth areas, and how they can fund a planned roll out of infrastructure.

On the topic of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PANS-OPS" target="_blank">PANS-OPS</a> and its impact on tall buildings in Central Melbourne, the Planning Minister made it quite clear he intends to work with the new Federal Government to rectify aviation-related issues which recently dogged the <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> proposal.  It is the Minister's strong view development in Central Melbourne should not be constrained by aviation regulations.  

The Minister stated (on the topic of Australia 108) "The PANS-OPS issue hasn't gone away, I have been up before the Federal election and will go again to talk with Warren Truss because in our view the CBD and Southbank should be treated like a geographic constraint"  The Minister went on to clarify the issues for height in Central Melbourne only relate to the potential scenario of "a twin engine aircraft taking off in distress from Essendon airport's East-West runway - Melbourne airport was never an issue".  

 

On Friday Laurence Dragomir will be back with our <a href="/news/conversations-with-matthew-guy-episode-ii-in-the-zone">next installment on our conversation with the Planning Minister</a>.
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