A SIX-STOREY redevelopment of the former McCalls Tannery site on Francis Street in Yarraville has been given the nod by a state government planning panel inquiry.
The 100-apartment proposal has attracted objections over its scale, its likely impact on the Westgate golf course, its increase in traffic, and residents’ safety on the truck-plagued road.
But panel chairman Nick Wimbush and member John Ostroff nevertheless recommended rezoning 125-155 Francis Street from industrial to residential, paving the way for the redevelopment.
Francis Street resident Karena Hanlon said the proposal was out of character for the area.
“I don’t think having five storeys on Francis Street and up to six in total is at all in keeping with the surrounding area,” she said.
“They are obviously trying to yield the greatest profit, but going up to 20 metres is very high and will set a precedent.”
Ms Hanlon also questioned the 2010 decision to allow the “hasty” demolition of the historical buildings on the 4590-square-metre site.
Maribyrnong Council approved the demolition and supports the proposed residential rezoning as the site is identified as a ‘substantial change area’ in the Maribyrnong Housing Strategy.
The panel also backed the proposal as “a unique opportunity to construct a landmark building of high architectural quality”.
“The panel accepts that such a 5-6-storey-high building will be substantially taller and larger in scale than any other building in Francis Street, east of its junction with Williamstown Road.
However, its dominant appearance will be mitigated by existing trees located along the Francis Street frontage of the adjoining public open space and within the golf course, together with the rail bridge and dip of Francis Street east of the site.”
Redevelopment will include handing over 18 per cent of the site to the council to allow the continued operation of the Westgate golf course, currently occupying part of the land.
