A proposal for an eight-storey apartment complex in Moreland Street, Footscray, has been met with opposition from residents concerned about its potential impact on the surrounding area.
A planning application for the development at 38-40 Moreland Street by Ali Enterprise Development Pty Ltd was lodged with Maribyrnong council on Friday, June 13.
On the same day a petition circulating on local Facebook groups objecting to the planning application was also lodged.
The petition objects to the apartment complex on the grounds of overdevelopment, arguing that there were already several other high-rises within a 500m radius, including another being built next door.
The petition argues that if the 45-apartment complex went ahead, it further would reduce visitor parking, impact nearby infrastructure and public transport services and cause extended disruption during construction.
The petition also argued that vehicle access via Yewers Street would impact a busy footpath and that the tower would overshadow neighbouring properties and infringe on the privacy of nearby residents.
It’s not clear how many people signed the petition and neither those behind it, nor Ali Enterprise Developments Pty Ltd responded to Star Weekly’s requests for comment.
Someone who was prepared to comment on the proposal was local resident Stephen Hunter.
In a post on Facebook, Mr Hunter, who lives in nearby Saltriver Place, voiced similar objections to those in the online petition, including it’s potential impact on Yewers Street, surrounding properties and prolonged construction disruption.
“Yewers Street is a vital pedestrian link, there is no footpath and introducing regular vehicle traffic will mean no safe access to the existing businesses there, and risks disrupting its safe, walkable nature,” Mr Hunter said.
“Nearby properties may be impacted by overlooking windows and blocked natural light. Reduced sunlight, the proposed height may significantly block light to neighbouring homes and public spaces.
“Local residents face the prospect of continuous construction for years to come, with little to no reprieve from noise, dust, and heavy vehicle traffic.”
