Maribyrnong councillors have unanimously rejected Yarraville Village’s first four-storey residential development, despite a report recommending its approval.
Council’s city development special committee last week rejected the planning application at 66 Wilson Street after receiving 29 objections to the proposal.
Developer Marwood Construction had proposed 14 dwellings in a series of two-, three- and four-storey buildings.
A report to the council suggested there would be limited impact to the amenity of adjoining properties, a claim rejected by residents.
The report noted council’s housing strategy encouraged medium density and apartment-style developments on large-sized allotments.
“The site is large, located in proximity to the Yarraville Neighbourhood Activity Centre and train station, which are positive attributes that should be considered as part of any design response for development.”
But Wilson Street resident Dr Gary Au said residents held three main concerns about the development, including a lack of respect for neighbourhood character, overwhelming visual bulk and unacceptable impact on amenities.
“We are not against development. However, what we advocate is sustainable development.”
Dr Au said the proposal would be the first four-storey development in the Yarraville Village, in a narrow cul-de-sac without visitor parking.
“All the houses in the street are either one or two storeys,” he said. “A jump to a four-storey would be out of character … and present a massive visual bulk.”
Residents are calling for the development to be limited to three storeys.
