A report to Council, including the results of community engagement and a recommendation on whether or not to approve the Development Plan is available to view in the meeting agenda.

Having regard to the relevant policy considerations and community feedback, the agenda report recommends that Council approve the Development Plan subject to a number of changes, including the revisions proposed by the applicant.

In summary, the following reasons allow the application to be supported:

  • As a site in Bayside designated for high density growth, the site is an appropriate location for higher density development as it is one of the five strategic redevelopment sites nominated in Bayside.
  • The site is expected to provide approximately 20% of the forecast housing growth expected in Bayside between 2021 and 2031.
  • A considerable percentage of the site is set aside for public open space.
  • Improved traffic functionality through the signalisation of the Bay Road and Graham Road intersection.
  • Impacts on the surrounding road network are able to be managed and can be further explored once an overall Development Plan has been adopted.
  • The provision of a community facility will result in positive social outcomes.
  • A contribution toward the provision of affordable housing is to be provided.
  • The impacts of increased building height are appropriately managed to minimise impacts on nearby and adjoining properties.
  • The environmental performance of the development will result in significant positive outcomes.
  • The timing for community and major infrastructure will be delivered early in the development.

For further information about the assessment of the application, please refer to the Delegates Report (Officers assessment of the Development Plan application for former CSIRO site).

All 821 submissions received from the community during the consultation period will be considered by Council at its meeting at 6.30pm on 26 October 2021. Should you wish to submit a further submission to be considered by Council at this meeting, please consider the information regarding the proposed amendments.

In accordance with the statutory processes outlined in the Bayside Planning Scheme, once a Development Plan is approved, no additional community engagement will occur for future planning permit processes for this site.

If Council decides to refuse the Development Plan, the developer will be provided with the opportunity to appeal Council’s decision at VCAT. This may result in the approval of the originally advertised plans.