A ‘greedy’ plan to redevelop a Footscray street has been sent packing by Maribyrnong councillors.
Council officers had recommended approving five two-bedroom townhouses at 47-49 Stafford Street, despite only three car spaces being included in the plans.
Speaking for the applicant, town planner Mark Waldon told councillors the proposal was “a very good fit” for council policies and the streetscape.
“We felt this respects the modest cottages along Stafford Street,” he said.
“We think this is respectful of the neighbourhood character.”
But speaking on behalf of residents, Russell Hunt said the proposal was “a lazy design” and an overdevelopment of the site.
“We are getting a great number of these lazy developments that undermine the fabric of the community and the fabric of the street,” he said.
Councillors unanimously agreed, and rejected the development application.
Mayor Catherine Cumming said the proposal was out of keeping with the prevailing neighbourhood character and did not include enough parking.
“There is definitely a lack of car parking in the area,” she said.
“This development could easily accommodate three or even four townhouses, but when you are putting five two-storey units with two bedrooms each and only have three car spaces without a big enough driveway, then this is an overdevelopment.”
Councillor Sarah Carter said a better design could have come up with more suitable parking solutions.
“We see this time and time and again – it’s greedy,” she said.
“This is a street where parking is in great demand.”
