A seven-storey apartment complex proposed for construction opposite West Footscray railway station has ben rejected by Maribyrnong council.
The council on Tuesday night rejected the proposal for an 86-unit development above retail space on the corner of Cross and Hocking streets and currently occupied by Potter’s House Christian Church.
The project plan, put forward by property consultants Spiire Australia, sought permission for 49 car spaces fewer than required, citing its proximity to the railway station.
The planned carparking area comprises 69 vehicle spaces, 72 bicycle spaces and three motorbike spaces.
A council report noted the site was located within a “substantial change area” that encourages “a new, higher-density urban character”.
Two objections were lodged, noting the lack of public realm works and inconsistencies with higher-density residential development guidelines, preferred height limits and building scale.
But the report found the site “ideal for accommodating additional housing growth with minimal impacts”.
The project was recommended for support subject to conditions including a reduction in the number of dwellings.
“The design is considered to respond effectively to its context, in policy and physical terms,” the report stated.
The proposal comes as VicTrack continues planning for intensive redevelopment on the northern side of West Footscray station.
A 5000-square-metre site north of the rail corridor was identified in 2014 for redevelopment under a plan to help pay for station upgrades.
A spokeswoman said VicTrack expected to be able to move forward with the plans in coming months.
“Our investigations involve working closely with the Melbourne Metro Rail Authority to co-ordinate our proposal with their planned works at the station,” she said.
