Maribyrnong council has backed a new 15-storey apartment building in Footscray despite the project exceeding the 12-storey cap it recommended for the area.
Council officers recommended the $20 million, 135-dwelling tower at 4 Neilson Place be approved because of its “acceptable built form and design response for the site”.
If supported by Planning Minister Matthew Guy, the project could join a growing number of approved towers of up to 32 storeys in the riverside Joseph Road precinct.
The proposal by SJB Planning is deemed to meet Plan Melbourne objectives, with its proximity to Footscray railway station one of the factors behind the council supporting it.
Cr Cameron McDonald told last week’s council meeting the development appeared to be a reasonable response to the site.
“At the moment, this area looks horrible, but I’m excited about the opportunities for Footscray if the development goes ahead.”
Cr Michael Clarke said the “classy piece of architecture” was in keeping with council’s vision for the area. “This is the type of development this council applauds,” he said.
The Joseph Road precinct could eventually house about 4000 new high-density dwellings in up to 20 high-rise apartment towers.
Recent controversy over the minister’s approval of buildings up to 32 storeys, against the council’s wishes, has led to calls for planning powers to revert to the council.
