KNOX CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
STRATEGIC PLANNING
COMMITTEE
Meeting held
at the Civic Centre,
511 Burwood Highway
Wantirna South
on
Tuesday 9 August 2011
STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
9 August 2011
Meeting Opened at 7.04 pm
Present
Cr S McMillan (Mayor & Chairperson)
Cr P Cole
Cr J Mortimore
Cr A Gill
Cr J Cossari
Cr A Walter
Cr D Cooper
Cr M Van de Vreede
Dobson Ward
Baird Ward
Chandler Ward
Dinsdale Ward
Collier Ward
Friberg Ward
Scott Ward
Tirhatuan Ward
Mr G Emonson
Chief Executive Officer
Mr I Bell
Director – Engineering &
Infrastructure
Mr A Kourambas
Director - City Development
Mr M Dupe
Director – Corporate Development
Ms K Stubbings
Director – Community Services
Mr R McKail
Manager - Governance
Apologies
Cr D Pearce
Declarations of Conflict of Interest
Nil
STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
9 August 2011
INDEX
Page No.
Item 1.
Confidential Information Register
1.
Item 2.
Lease of Land within 437 Stud Road, Wantirna South
for the Purpose of a Shared Path for Use by the Public
(Melway Ref: 72 J2)
4.
Item 3.
Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy – Review
7.
Item 4.
Bayswater Triangle Master Plan
22.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
9 August 2011
ALL WARDS
ITEM
1.
CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REGISTER
SUMMARY:
Manager – Governance (Rodney McKail)
This report seeks a Council resolution to declare information
confidential in accordance with the requirements of section 77(2)(b) of
the Local Government Act 1989.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council in accordance with section 77(2)(b) of the Local
Government Act 1989
1. declare the information referred to in Confidential Appendix A as
confidential information on the grounds as specified in the
attachment.
2. declare Confidential Appendix A as confidential information in
accordance with the grounds specified in section 89(2)(h) of the
Local Government Act 1989, as a matter which the Council considers
would prejudice the Council or any person.
1.
INTRODUCTION
Section 77(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1989 enables the Chief
Executive Officer to designate information that is confidential, specifying the
relevant ground/s applying under section 89(2) of the Act. Such information is
designated confidential for a period of 50 days only and requires a Council
resolution in order to remain confidential in perpetuity.
2.
DISCUSSION
The definition of ‘confidential information’ in section 77 of the Local
Government Act is as follows:
“(2) For the purposes
information” if-
of
this
section,
information
is
“confidential
(a)
the information was provided to the Council or a special
committee in relation to a matter considered by the Council or
special committee at a meeting closed to members of the public
and the Council or special committee has not passed a resolution
that the information is not confidential; or
(b)
the information has been designated as confidential information
by a resolution of the Council or a special committee which
specifies the relevant ground or grounds applying under section
89(2) and the Council or special committee has not passed a
resolution that the information is not confidential; or
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
1.
9 August 2011
Confidential Information Register (cont’d)
(c)
(3)
subject to sub-section (3), the information has been designated in
writing as confidential information by the Chief Executive Officer
specifying the relevant ground or grounds applying under section
89(2) and the Council has not passed a resolution that the
information is not confidential.
Confidential information referred to in sub-section (2)(c) ceases to be
confidential at the expiry of the period of 50 days after the designation is
made unless sub-section (2)(a) or (2)(b) applies to the information.”
Under section 77(3), if the Chief Executive Officer has designated in writing
that the information is confidential information, the information will cease to be
confidential at the expiration of 50 days after the designation was made.
A Council resolution is now required to ensure the confidential status and
legislative protection of documents designated as confidential by the Chief
Executive Officer in accordance with Section 77 of the Act. It is important to
note, that confidential information can, by subsequent resolution of Council,
become non confidential.
3.
CONSULTATION
No consultation has occurred in relation to the preparation of this report,
however, a Council resolution to declare information confidential in
accordance with the requirements of section 77(2)(b) of the Local Government
Act 1989 is consistent with Council’s Confidential Information Policy and
Procedure.
4.
ENVIRONMENTAL/AMENITY ISSUES
There are no environmental/amenity issues associated with the preparation of
this report.
5.
FINANCIAL & ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
6.
SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no social implications associated with this report.
7.
RELEVANCE TO COUNCIL PLAN
This process supports the Key Result Area of Sound Stewardship by ensuring
good governance through the application of appropriate processes and
protocols to facilitate effective and democratic government.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
1.
9 August 2011
Confidential Information Register (cont’d)
8.
CONCLUSION
In adopting the attached confidential schedule, Council ensures that
documents that have previously been declared confidential by the Chief
Executive Officer remain confidential in perpetuity.
9.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Due to the confidential nature of the information to be included in the register,
a detailed listing of the documents for adoption by Council has been circulated
separately as Confidential Appendix A.
COUNCIL RESOLUTION
MOVED:
SECONDED:
CR. COOPER
CR. COSSARI
That Council in accordance with section 77(2)(b) of the Local
Government Act 1989
1. declare the information referred to in Confidential Appendix A as
confidential information on the grounds as specified in the
attachment.
2. declare Confidential Appendix A as confidential information in
accordance with the grounds specified in section 89(2)(h) of the
Local Government Act 1989, as a matter which the Council
considers would prejudice the Council or any person.
CARRIED
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
9 August 2011
SCOTT WARD
ITEM
2.
LEASE OF LAND WITHIN 437 STUD ROAD, WANTIRNA SOUTH FOR
THE PURPOSE OF A SHARED PATH FOR USE BY THE PUBLIC
(MELWAY REF: 72 J2)
SUMMARY:
Coordinator – Property Services (Angela Mitchell)
This report recommends that Council sign and seal the lease between
Knox City Council and Stud Road Property Pty Ltd (trading as Knox
Mitsubishi) for the use of land adjacent to the western boundary of
437 Stud Road for a shared path to be used by the public.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council sign and seal the lease between Knox City Council and
Stud Road Property Pty Ltd (trading as Knox Mitsubishi) for the use of
land adjacent to the western boundary of 437 Stud Road, Wantirna South
for the purpose of a shared path.
1.
INTRODUCTION
At the Council meeting on 26 November 2008, Council resolved to end
Section 173 Agreement S445097D applying to 437 Stud Road, Wantirna
South subject to a number of conditions in planning permit P/2008/6399 being
met, included in this was:

“A 2.5 metre shared path to be constructed along the west boundary of the
site, to the satisfaction of Council. All costs associated with this including
any legal fees are to be borne by the developer/owner.”
Planning Permit P/2008/6399 was issued on 12 May 2009 and included
design parameters giving effect to the above requirements.
Since the issue of Planning Permit P/2008/6399, a number of mediations have
been undertaken at VCAT between Council, VicRoads and the applicant.
At the Council meeting on 27 January 2010, Council resolved (amongst
others) to:

“Agree to maintain a minimum 2.5 metre wide shared pedestrian and cycle
pathway to be constructed to Council’s standards within private property at
437 Stud Road, Wantirna South as well as within Tree Reserve 602 and
Stud Road reserve, with no costs associated with the path construction
and maintenance agreement to be borne by Council.”
It is necessary to construct this shared path partially through private property,
as there is not an adequate area within the road reserve and the 1.5 metres
wide Council owned tree reserve (adjacent to the western boundary of the
site), to accommodate a shared path of adequate width.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
2.
9 August 2011
Lease of Land Within 437 Stud Road, Wantirna South for the
Purpose of a Shared Path for Use by the Public (cont’d)
Subsequent further mediation at VCAT was successful and VCAT issued an
order by consent on 28 May 2010 giving effect to Council’s resolution
including a permit condition stating:

“Prior to commencement of construction of the shared path, the owner
must enter into a licence agreement with the Council covering that part of
the shared path which protrudes into the subject land. The licence shall (in
addition to normal licence terms) provide for:
o A right for Council to occupy the subject site for the purpose of a
shared path for use by the public and to enter the subject land to
maintain and repair the path.
o Indemnities and releases in favour of the owner.
o The holding of insurances.
The cost of preparing, negotiating and executing the agreement is to be
borne by the owner.”
In accordance with the above conditions, solicitors have now prepared a lease
agreement which is now presented for signing and sealing by Council. It
should be noted that whilst the resolution states a licence agreement, it is
appropriate in this instance that Council proceeds with a lease, as such an
agreement will remain with the property for the term of the lease. A lease will
also accord with the resolution.
The proposed lease is for 50 years with consideration of $1 (on demand) with
all appropriate insurances and indemnities being undertaken by Council.
2.
DISCUSSION
The proposed lease agreement gives effect to previous Council resolutions
indicated in this report and will result in the provision of a shared path for use
by the public across the frontage of the site.
Council’s Traffic Department advised that the shared pedestrian and bicycle
path is of importance as this section of footpath is the ‘missing link’ between
the ‘Austral Bricks Site’ and Knox Central Activity Centre.
The proposal is consistent with the Knox Integrated Transport Plan which
includes the following:


3.
Provide an accessible on-road and off-road bicycle network that provides
for safe and continuous travel throughout the municipality.
Maximise resident access to a connected path network.
CONSULTATION
Consultation has been undertaken with the property owners, VicRoads and
internal Council stakeholders.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
2.
9 August 2011
Lease of Land Within 437 Stud Road, Wantirna South for the
Purpose of a Shared Path for Use by the Public (cont’d)
4.
ENVIRONMENTAL/AMENITY ISSUES
There are no environmental issues associated with this lease. By providing
functional connectivity and landscaping, in accordance with approved permits,
this will improve the amenity of the area.
5.
FINANCIAL & ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS
In accordance with VCAT’s order (28 May 2010), all costs associated with
construction of the 2.5 metre path and for the preparation of the associated
lease agreement are to be borne by the developer/owner. Whilst there are no
immediate costs to Council, there will be ongoing maintenance which will be
the responsibility of Council.
6.
SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The subject section of footpath, traversing the front of 437 Stud Road,
Wantirna South is the ‘missing link’ between the ‘Austral Brick Site’ and Knox
Central Activity Centre. The proposal will have a positive social impact in that
provision of the shared path will improve connectivity for residents using
sustainable forms of transport.
7.
RELEVANCE TO COUNCIL PLAN
The construction of this shared path will meet Council’s transport options of
connectivity between transport modes supported by high quality local
transport infrastructure.
8.
CONCLUSION
This report finalises the conditions endorsed by VCAT and recommends that
Council sign and seal the lease between Knox City Council and Stud Road
Property Pty Ltd to deliver the shared path adjacent to the western boundary
of 437 Stud Road, Wantirna South.
9.
CONFIDENTIALITY
There are no confidential issues associated with this report.
COUNCIL RESOLUTION
MOVED:
SECONDED:
CR. COOPER
CR. VAN DE VREEDE
That Council sign and seal the lease between Knox City Council and
Stud Road Property Pty Ltd (trading as Knox Mitsubishi) for the use of
land adjacent to the western boundary of 437 Stud Road, Wantirna
South for the purpose of a shared path.
CARRIED
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
9 August 2011
ALL WARDS
ITEM
3.
NATIVE VEGETATION NET GAIN POLICY - REVIEW
SUMMARY:
Manager – Sustainability (Gary Topp)
This report provides a three year review of Council’s Native Vegetation
Net Gain Policy and seeks formal endorsement of the revised policy
(attached) in line with the issues outlined below.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council adopt the revised Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy as
shown as Attachment A to this report, noting the following key
amendments from the original policy:
1. utilise funds collected under the terms of the Policy to create a
reserve fund to purchase land containing existing high quality
remnant vegetation rather than for revegetation purposes;
2. utilise Council’s contribution of $50,000 per annum to cover ‘net gain’
costs for single householders as a capped annual contribution to the
above reserve fund; and
3. incorporate Council’s obligation to ‘off set’ its own tree removal work
into existing bushland management budgets as part of future year
budget considerations to achieve ‘net gain’ outcomes.
1.
INTRODUCTION
In 2008 Council adopted a local Net Gain Policy in response to the State
Government’s Native Vegetation Framework. This policy forms part of
Council’s statutory planning role. It has a simple core purpose; to prevent the
ongoing loss of native vegetation in the municipality as a result of urban
development and change. The Net Gain Policy is an important way that
Council expresses the community’s value of a ‘green and leafy’ municipality.
Current State Government guidance for the enforcement and delivery of net
gain is complex and Knox City Council has joined with other Councils in a
concerted approach to seeking practical solutions to the issues. Knox City
Council was not only an ‘early adopter’ of the Policy but also chose to adopt a
set of local interpretations that have further added to the delivery complexities.
In short, we have a Policy that is proving difficult to deliver at the ‘offset’ stage.
The Policy requires a pragmatic overhaul that more adequately meets the
basic intent of the Policy.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
3.
9 August 2011
Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy (cont’d)
2.
DISCUSSION
Council adopted a Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy in April 2008 in
accordance with State Government policy. The Native Vegetation Net Gain
Policy is fundamentally a policy to protect and enhance native and indigenous
vegetation threatened by city development land use pressures.
Native Vegetation Net Gain utilises a three stage process:

Avoid – removal of remnant native vegetation.

Minimise – if avoidance of remnant vegetation is not possible, minimise
removal.

Offset – any permitted losses where any remnant native vegetation
removed would require a Net Gain offset.
Where offsetting, it should be with the same ecological vegetation community
(EVC) lost or one of similar or greater conservation significance.
The Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy effectively forms part of Council’s
Planning role and the front end of the process is managed on a day to day
basis by the Statutory Planning Team. In simple terms, as planning requests
for development are received, an assessment is made to ascertain whether
Native Vegetation Net Gain considerations are applicable.
The Policy continues to perform effectively at the assessment stage of the
process and it has proved to be a workable interpretation of the State
guidelines. The Policy allows the necessary identification of ‘at risk’ vegetation
and provides an assessment mechanism for quantifying the required offset
and associated costs.
(It should be noted that on sites where 15 trees that are under 40cm diameter
at breast height (DBH) or 5 trees that are over 40cm DBH are being removed,
DSE also form part of the assessment process. The process itself requires an
‘offset management plan’).
It is possible after three years of operation to describe the three main types of
applicant that net gain applies to as:
Single dwellings: typically when a private home owner wishes to extend or
otherwise develop their property in such a way that it requires the removal of
native vegetation including trees.
Small scale developer: typically a single or consolidated lot development
involving the removal of an existing property to be replaced with units/
townhouses or apartments.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
3.
9 August 2011
Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy (cont’d)
State Agencies: An example of this would be VicRoads undertaking work as
part of their ongoing development of transport infrastructure in the
municipality.
In addition to the above, under the adopted policy Council itself is subject to
Net Gain considerations when working on, for example, road reserves or other
land in Council ownership.
It can be concluded that Council’s current policy and the delivery mechanisms
associated with it adequately identify and provide an opportunity to fulfil the
‘avoid’ and ‘minimise’ aspects of the three stage process.
However, Council’s Net Gain Policy cannot be delivered in its current form at
the ‘offset’ stage of the process. Again, in simple terms; this means identifying
the correct land sites in the city that are suitable to be revegetated or
protected to ensure they meet the Net Gain Policy requirements.
As the Policy has been applied over the past three years, it has become clear
that there are a number of interrelated issues that collectively contribute to
making the ‘offset’ stage of the process impractical.
It should be noted that considerable work and analysis, both internally and
externally (including legal advice, cross municipality discussions, joint CEO
letters and numerous other considerations) have occurred in the last few
months to try to unravel a complex situation and arrive at a practical delivery
solution for the current policy position.
The following core issues continue to undermine the successful delivery of the
current Policy in terms of the ‘offset’ phase:
1.
It has not been possible (except in minor cases) to identify suitable land
in the municipality to use for the offset.
2.
Land must be protected ‘in perpetuity’. In practice this means that the
land needs a form of ‘title’ or ‘zoning’ that prevents future disturbance.
There is ongoing debate about whether Public Park Recreation Zone is
sufficient and an inconclusive discussion about the ability to apply legal
agreements.
3.
Any identified land needs to meet strict habitat (EVC) criteria to ensure
that the offset matches the original vegetation.
4.
Any offset will need to meet a ten year audit requirement - this is likely to
become more onerous as the State-wide policy matures.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
3.
9 August 2011
Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy (cont’d)
In addition to the above, Council adopted a policy with two local issues that
are not required by the State Government policy:
1.
Council made it a requirement to offset its own tree removal and bushfire
works. Whilst it has been possible to account (quantify in ‘offset’ terms)
for this work, it has not proved possible to put in place a workable
delivery solution including the need to identify additional funds and
suitable land.
2.
Council decided not to apply charges to private single dwellings and
agreed to contribute $50,000 per annum to its own Net Gain Policy
reserve fund to cover these costs. In fact, ongoing analysis puts the
annual figure at between $350-500,000. Notwithstanding this shortfall, it
has not been possible to undertake any offsets to date for the reasons
outlined above.
It is proposed therefore, that as part of the scheduled three year Policy review,
the following three changes to the Policy are adopted:
1.
Utilise funds collected under the terms of the Policy to create a reserve
fund to purchase existing land with high quality remnant vegetation
rather than for revegetation purposes.
2.
Utilise Council’s contribution of $50,000 per annum to cover ‘net gain’
costs for private single households as a capped annual contribution to
the above reserve fund.
3.
Incorporate Council’s obligation to ‘off set’ its own tree removal work into
existing bushland management budgets as part of future year budget
considerations to achieve ‘net gain’ outcomes.
These changes represent a pragmatic approach to the delivery of the Policy
moving forward and recognise the ‘on the ground’ delivery experience of the
past three years work.
The most significant of the three proposals, to move from ‘offset planting’ to
‘purchase’, will mark a considerable improvement in the Policy in line with its
overall purpose. This approach will create greatly improved opportunities to
protect and manage important existing native vegetation sites in Knox (for
example Bateman’s Bush) rather than continuing to seek hard to find local
sites for revegetation. This simple premise recognises that it is more important
to protect what already exists rather than try to recreate it.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
3.
9 August 2011
Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy (cont’d)
3.
CONSULTATION
Consultation has occurred with Councillors, the Environment Advisory
Committee, the Department of Sustainability and Environment, as well as a
number of staff within the organisation that have an understanding of the
Native Vegetation Framework and the net gain process.
4.
ENVIRONMENTAL/AMENITY ISSUES
This policy will have a positive influence on environmental/biodiversity and
amenity issues such as:
Biodiversity
 Knox currently supports many rare and endangered flora and fauna
species. Additional habitat loss and failure to close habitat gaps will
threaten survival of endangered species and will lead to possible
extinction.
Pollution
 Trees absorb vast amounts of toxic chemicals from the air including
sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon dioxide and carbon
monoxide. One study cites that 100 trees can remove approximately 450
kilograms of pollutants from the air and 5 tons of carbon dioxide.
 Trees absorb urban noise reducing background noise pollution.
Greenhouse and Heat Island Effect
 The removal of trees from urban areas can increase the temperature in
that area by up to four degrees Celsius.
 Removal of vegetation results in an increase in greenhouse gas.
Habitat corridors
 By protecting remnant vegetation and strategically placing offset sites to
enhance habitat corridors it will:
 allow movement of fauna such as birds, insects, and mammals,
 allow movement of pollens and propagules,
 improve amenity, and
 enhance ecological benefits.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
3.
9 August 2011
Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy (cont’d)
Amenity
 It can provide a unique landscape which can help define a unique
Australian culture.
 The Knox community consistently expresses their appreciation of the
“green leafy image” of the municipality. During the community
consultation process for Vision 2025, 97% of the surveyed residents
expressed the natural environment as very important or important.
5.
FINANCIAL & ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS
The three proposed amendments to the Policy do not significantly alter the
current, and previously adopted, costs for delivery. Indeed the proposed
‘capped’ approach to single dwellings provides an additional level of financial
certainty.
There are ongoing cost implications for the management and custodianship of
bushland in the municipality and this Policy recognises that as both the
complexity and number of bushland sites increases there will be an ongoing
need for additional funding.
6.
SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There is a clear link between the physical and mental health of communities
and that of individuals through contact with nature. Discussion regarding
these benefits has previously been included in reports to Council on open
space and linear corridors.
Council has a role of providing positive leadership in the application of the
Native Vegetation Framework to all of its activities, as part of requiring
individuals to comply with the State Native Vegetation Framework, as well as
actively promoting the benefits to the community of protecting biodiversity and
the ‘green leafy image’.
The application of a Council subsidised program to single lot residential works
reinforces the concept of there being a broader community benefit derived by
applying the principles of net gain being to avoid, minimise then as a last
resort offset, with the offset being paid by the broader community ensuring
that all residents of Knox pay for the protection of biodiversity, rather than the
few who have remnant vegetation on their property.
7.
RELEVANCE TO COUNCIL PLAN
Protecting and enhancing the biodiversity values of Knox is a key objective of
the Knox 2001 -2010 Sustainable City Plan.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
3.
9 August 2011
Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy (cont’d)
In the Community and Council Plan 2006 - 2010, under the Key Result Area of
a Vibrant and Connected Community, Council’s objective of a Sustainable
Natural Environment will be achieved through the following key strategies:
 Promote and educate communities and developers about sustainability
and environmental conservation.
 Identify further Sites of Biological Significance and seek to protect and
enhance through linking these to other sites of significance and best
practice bushland management.
Knox Vision 2025 aspires to no further extinctions of flora and fauna or
ecological vegetation classes.
8.
CONCLUSION
In keeping with the above discussion a revised version of the Net Gain Policy
is attached that captures the recommended changes in a pragmatic manner.
This report seeks Council’s approval for these changes to provide
endorsement for a revised Native Vegetation Net Gain in line with the three
year review period.
9.
CONFIDENTIALITY
There are no matters of a confidential nature associated with this report.
COUNCIL RESOLUTION
MOVED:
SECONDED:
CR. MORTIMORE
CR. GILL
That Council adopt the revised Native Vegetation Net Gain Policy as
shown as Attachment A to this report, noting the following key
amendments from the original policy:
1.
utilise funds collected under the terms of the Policy to create a
reserve fund to purchase land containing existing high quality
remnant vegetation rather than for revegetation purposes;
2.
utilise Council’s contribution of $50,000 per annum to cover ‘net
gain’ costs for single householders as a capped annual
contribution to the above reserve fund with consideration to
increasing the capped contribution being referred to the 2012/13
Budget Program.
3.
incorporate Council’s obligation to ‘off set’ its own tree removal
work into existing bushland management budgets as part of
future year budget considerations to achieve ‘net gain’
outcomes.
CARRIED
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
Attachment A/1
9 August 2011
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
Attachment A/2
9 August 2011
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
Attachment A/3
9 August 2011
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
Attachment A/4
9 August 2011
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
Attachment A/5
9 August 2011
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
Attachment A/6
9 August 2011
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
Attachment A/7
9 August 2011
21
STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
Attachment A/8
9 August 2011
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
9 August 2011
COUNCILLOR VAN DE VREED VACATED THE CHAMBER AT 7.30PM DURING
DISCUSSION ON ITEM 4
COUNCILLOR VAN DE VREEDE RETURNED TO THE CHAMBER AT 7.33PM
DURING DISCUSSION ON ITEM 4
COUNCILLOR WALTER VACATED THE CHAMBER AT 7.35PM DURING
DISCUSSION ON ITEM 4
COUNCILLOR WALTER RETURNED TO THE CHAMBER AT 7.40PM DURING
DISCUSSION ON ITEM 4
DINSDALE WARD
ITEM
4.
BAYSWATER TRIANGLE MASTER PLAN
SUMMARY:
Nicole Vickridge (Coordinator – Strategic Planning)
On the 14 June 2011 Council deferred consideration of this report to
enable amendments to be made to the Master Plan – these amendments
have now been made. The Bayswater Triangle Master Plan details the
preferred future land uses and built form for the Bayswater Triangle. The
triangle is defined by Scoresby Road, Mountain Highway, and Station
Street in Bayswater. The Master Plan was identified as an initiative of the
adopted Structure Plan (Bayswater 2020). The Master Plan is consistent
with the Structure Plan, and takes the recommendations of the Structure
Plan to a greater level of detail for this area. The Master Plan will provide
guidance for use and development within the Triangle.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1.
Endorse the Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (February 2011) and
option C contained there in as the preferred option.
2.
Note the Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (February 2011) will be
used to guide use and development within the Triangle as an
approved Master Plan under Clause 22.05 (Bayswater Major Activity
Centre including key redevelopment sites) of the Knox Planning
Scheme.
3.
Provide a copy of the endorsed Bayswater Triangle Master Plan
(February 2011) to all owners and occupiers in the Bayswater
Triangle for their reference.
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STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE
4.
9 August 2011
Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (cont’d)
1.
INTRODUCTION
This report was previously presented to the Strategic Planning Committee on
14 June 2011. At this meeting Council resolved to defer consideration of the
Bayswater Triangle Master Plan, to enable amendments to be made to the
Plan in accordance with previous discussions held at the working group
meetings. These amendments (which specifically show Station Street as the
preferred location for the Bayswater Library and Multipurpose Community
Facility in Option C) have been made to the Master plan and are reflected in
Appendix B (Master plan options).
The Bayswater Triangle Master Plan February 2011 (‘The Master Plan’) was
prepared to detail preferred future land uses and built forms for the Bayswater
Triangle prior to any major development. The triangle is defined by Scoresby
Road, Mountain Highway, and Station Street in Bayswater (refer to Appendix
A).
At present the Triangle is dominated by car parking and the railway line forms
a strong barrier between Station Street and the rest of the site. Commercial
premises and advertising dominate the character of the site from a number of
viewpoints, particularly facing the high volumes of traffic along Scoresby Road
and Mountain Highway.
The adopted Structure Plan (Bayswater 2020) encourages use of this area for:
‘community facilities, entertainment, bulky goods and education uses’. The
Structure Plan identifies the need for a Master Plan to provide further detail on
how the area should be used and developed in order to maximise
opportunities within this site and respond to other actions including
development of the Bayswater Library and Multipurpose Community Facility,
and investigations into the feasibility of placing the railway underground.
Hard copies of the full Master Plan have been placed in the Councillors suite
and the Master Plan is available on the Council website (search ‘Bayswater
2020’). Further hard copies of the Master Plan are also available on request to
the Strategic Planning team.
2.
DISCUSSION
The Master Plan provides an opportunity to improve the functionality of the
Triangle site and improve access to and within the site. The Triangle site
should be active and vibrant with a real sense of identity, and an improved
public realm - a place where people want to work and socialise.
One of the strengths of the Master Plan is a detailed site analysis. This
includes information on: existing conditions; opportunities and constraints; and
the planning context.
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4.
9 August 2011
Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (cont’d)
The Master Plan highlights the assets of the Triangle site and opportunities to
build on and strengthen these. Assets include: access to public transport (the
station and the bus interchange); views to the Dandenong Ranges and
existing native vegetation. There are opportunities to improve links to nearby
open space and recreation facilities; make better use of internal space
(reducing the visual dominance of car parking within the site); and link the
station to the retail core on the other side of Station Street.
A detailed market analysis is included as an Appendix to the Master Plan and
was critical in informing the mix of land uses and building massing.
The Master Plan outlines three possible development scenarios for the future
use and development of the Triangle Site - consistent with the adopted
Structure Plan. All of the options include a mix of land uses and proposals to
realign the internal road network. The three options include different
assumptions regarding the future location of the Bayswater Hotel (within the
site) and realignment of railway infrastructure.
Option A assumes the Bayswater Hotel is relocated to the corner of Mountain
Highway and Scoresby Road. Central to this option is a pedestrian bridge over
the railway line close to the station improving access to the site, creating
space for a plaza adjacent to the preferred location of the Bayswater Library
and Multipurpose Community Facility.
Option B assumes the Bayswater Hotel remains in its current location – with
opportunities for expansion to include a conference centre. Similar to option A
this option includes a pedestrian bridge over the railway line close to the
station improving access to the site, creating space for a plaza adjacent to the
preferred location of the Bayswater Library and Multipurpose Community
Facility.
Option C is dependent on major modifications to the railway line and station,
including placing the railway line and station underground and relocating the
rail maintenance facility. This maximises the links, and access between the
retail core and the Triangle Site. This option also assumes the Bayswater
Hotel is relocated to the corner of Mountain Highway and Scoresby Road. The
location for a public plaza and open space is reconfigured further to the west
and Station Street remains the preferred location for the Bayswater Library
and Multipurpose Community Facility. Realisation of Option C also requires
the relocation of the Knox Community Arts Centre from the Triangle Site.
Planning for a new Arts Centre is part of the Knox Central Investment and
Development Program.
The Master Plan report recommends staged implementation working towards
the preferred option C (which includes undergrounding the railway line).
The three options are included in Appendix B.
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4.
9 August 2011
Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (cont’d)
Part of the aspirational vision for this site – which was a driver in the creation
of the Master Plan was to lower the railway line and place the train station
underground to maximise development opportunities and improve the
connections between the Triangle site and the retail core. Since the Master
Plan was finalised the State Government has committed $16.5 million for
planning work on level crossing removal on ten of the busiest level crossings.
This includes funding for planning the removal of level crossings at Mountain
Highway and Scoresby Road, Bayswater. The Master Plan supports removal
of these level crossings and should be used to inform this planning process.
The Master Plan is an aspirational document and delivery of the preferred
option C will require significant investment from the private sector and the
State Government to deliver substantial upgrades to transport infrastructure.
The Master Plan will be used to guide decisions on future development within
the Triangle site.
A planning scheme amendment is not required to implement the Master Plan.
Local Planning policy Clause 22.05 (Bayswater Major Activity Centre including
key redevelopment sites) identifies a number of key redevelopment sites
within the Bayswater Activity Centre to act as catalysts for attracting
investment and development. Site ‘F’ includes the Bayswater Triangle site.
Under this clause, use and development within the site should be guided by
an approved Master Plan. The Bayswater Triangle Master Plan will form the
approved Master Plan and will be used to guide use and development within
the Triangle site.
3.
CONSULTATION
Discussions with key stakeholders were held in the preliminary stages of
preparing the Master Plan. These discussions provided valuable input to the
appreciation of the preferred opportunities and outcomes that arise from the
current mix of activities in the site.
The former Committee for Bayswater identified a need for the Triangle site to
be better integrated with the Bayswater Activity Centre. In the long term, the
Committee advocated that the railway line and station be lowered, removing
rail crossings that create traffic congestion in the area to the detriment of the
amenity of the activity centre. This would create opportunities for retail and
office development above the rail line and new pedestrian links between the
activity centre and the Triangle site.
The Committee proposed that the activity centre have a focal point and a civic
square on the corner of Mountain Highway and Station Street. Views to the
Dandenong hills should be retained. The Committee supported further office
development and restricted retail development in the Triangle site to provide
additional employment opportunities and to broaden the range of services
available to people visiting Bayswater. The Committee also supported locating
a multi-purpose facility in the Triangle site; and acknowledged that the CFA
wish to remain within the Triangle site.
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4.
9 August 2011
Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (cont’d)
Vic Track is a key landowner and stakeholder in the centre. Their interests
include the on-going operation of the rail station and the convenient provision
of commuter car parking and the operations of the train maintenance centre.
The provision of a multipurpose community facility - including a library - is
earmarked in the Bayswater Structure Plan for a central location in the activity
centre, with high accessibility to public transport. The multi-purpose facility
report (January 2010) concluded there is strong demand for community
meeting spaces and services in Bayswater which respond to social isolation
and socio-economic disadvantage. The preferred site for the Bayswater
Library and Multipurpose Community Facility is on Station Street close to the
entrance to the Station.
The owner and operators of the Bayswater Hotel were consulted during the
development of the Master Plan. They have indicated that they may consider
the redevelopment of the Hotel.
The CFA provided feedback on a draft Master Plan report and have indicated
a preference to remain within the Triangle site. All options within the Master
Plan do not preclude the CFA remaining on site.
Implementation of the Master Plan will require an integrated approach by the
stakeholders that have an interest in the Triangle site. With numerous
landholders within the Triangle site implementation of the Master Plan will
require further communication and collaboration with both land owners and a
range of government departments and authorities including the Department of
Transport; Department of Sustainability and Environment (Crown Land);
Department of Transport; and Vic Track.
4.
ENVIRONMENTAL/AMENITY ISSUES
All of the options within the Master Plan seek to protect and enhance existing
native vegetation (a recognised asset of the site) with the aim of retaining a
‘leafy’ open feel on the site, complementing the existing character
(characterised by mature native vegetation and views to the Dandenongs) and
the proposed ‘Bush Boulevard’ treatment along Mountain Highway.
The preferred Master Plan option C includes lowering the railway line and
station. These improvements have the potential to support greater use of
public transport and enhance the attractiveness of Bayswater Station.
5.
FINANCIAL & ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS
The Master Plan was delivered within the project budget of $48,000. The
Master Plan will be used to guide use and development within the Triangle.
This can occur within existing strategic planning budgets.
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4.
9 August 2011
Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (cont’d)
6.
SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The Bayswater Structure Plan sets out a number of objectives under the
heading of ‘Vibrant Community Spaces’. Many of the actions listed will occur
within the Triangle site; and these are reflected within the Master Plan.
The preferred site for the Bayswater Library and Multipurpose Community
Facility (on Station Street close to the entrance to the Station) is within the
Triangle site; and the Master Plan reflects this.
The preferred Master Plan option C includes lowering the railway line and
station. An upgraded public transport interchange will provide a focal point for
the community, and become an important gateway into the activity centre.
These improvements will support greater use of public transport and enhance
the attractiveness of Bayswater Station.
7.
RELEVANCE TO COUNCIL PLAN
The Bayswater Master Plan February 2011 will contribute to a number of
themes within the Council plan including:






8.
Healthy, connected communities - through improvements to
accessibility;
Culturally rich & active communities – through identification of possible
locations for the Bayswater multi-purpose hub within the Bayswater
Triangle;
Accessible transport choices - through supporting advocacy for
improved integrated transport options for the Knox community –
specifically undergrounding of the railway line at Bayswater Road;
Sustainable natural environment – through recognising and seeking to
protect environmental assets (Vegetation) within the Bayswater
Triangle;
Attractive and vibrant places – through supporting implementation of
the Bayswater Structure Plan; and supporting and encouraging
appropriate high quality built form within the Bayswater Triangle; and
A prosperous and modern economy – through creating an attractive
and vibrant environment; and encouraging improved links between
public transport to employment precincts – through undergrounding of
the railway line at Bayswater Road.
CONCLUSION
The Bayswater Triangle Master Plan provides an opportunity to improve the
functionality of the Triangle site and improve access to and within the site. The
Master Plan provides detailed guidance on the preferred use and
development for a key redevelopment site identified in the Bayswater
Structure Plan.
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4.
9 August 2011
Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (cont’d)
The preferred Master Plan option C is dependent on major modifications to
the railway line and station, including placing the railway line and station
underground and relocating the rail maintenance facility. The Master Plan
should be used to inform the planning for this. Option C also assumes
relocation of the Knox Community Arts Centre from the Triangle Site.
The provision of a multipurpose community facility - including a library is
earmarked in the Bayswater Structure Plan for a central location in the activity
centre. The Master Plan builds on this and identifies the preferred site for the
Bayswater Multipurpose Community Facility is on Station Street close to the
entrance to the Station (informed by a detailed report on the multi-purpose
facility report).
Endorsing the Bayswater Triangle Master Plan will mean that it will be used to
guide use and development within the Triangle site.
9.
CONFIDENTIALITY
There are no matters of a confidential nature associated with this report.
COUNCIL RESOLUTION
MOVED:
SECONDED:
CR. GILL
CR. MORTIMORE
That Council:
1.
Endorse the Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (February 2011)
and option C contained there in as the preferred option.
2.
Note the Bayswater Triangle Master Plan (February 2011) will be
used to guide use and development within the Triangle as an
approved Master Plan under Clause 22.05 (Bayswater Major
Activity Centre including key redevelopment sites) of the Knox
Planning Scheme.
3.
Provide a copy of the endorsed Bayswater Triangle Master Plan
(February 2011) to all owners and occupiers in the Bayswater
Triangle for their reference.
CARRIED
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Appendix A Map of the Bayswater Triangle
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Appendix B/1 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/2 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/3 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/4 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/5 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/6 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/7 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/8 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/9 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/10 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/11 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/12 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/13 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/14 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/15 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/16 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/17 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/18 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/19 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/20 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/21 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/22 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/23 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/24 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/25 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/26 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/27 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/28 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/29 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/30 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/31 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/32 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/33 Master Plan options
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Appendix B/34 Master Plan options
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MEETING CLOSED AT 7.41PM
Minutes of Meeting confirmed at the
Ordinary Meeting of Council
held on
Tuesday 23 August 2011
…………………………………
Chairman
9 August 2011