Three stage 76 lot subdivision

A 76-lot subdivision is set to expand the offer of residential properties in Yarragon.

Baw Baw Shire Council has issued a notice of decision to grant a permit for the multi-lot subdivision at 71 Rollo St.

Developers propose the subdivision will be completed in three stages.

Lots will range between 539 square metres and 930 square metres, with an average of 653 square metres.

The subdivision will be accessed from Rodier Rd in the north and Rollo St to the east.

The application was submitted by land development consultants Millar and Merrigan Pty Ltd of Croydon South.

A report to council said a linear reserve is proposed along the southern boundary of the site and will be a continuation of the existing reserve to the west.

All vegetation on the site is proposed to be removed. A permit condition requires the developer to undertake street tree plantings and landscaping of the reserve.

Officers said the proposal met state and local planning policy and provided a diversity and supply of land within the municipality which increased housing choice for residents,

“The proposal will support Yarragon’s population growth as it will provide for housing growth while being respectful of the existing character of the area,” officers said.

There were 11 objections to the development relating to the layout of lots, lack of pedestrian and bicycle path links, no provision for green space; and fails to consider overall improvement to biodiversity, neighbourhood character and landscape and environmental quality.

Objectors also said the application should be considered in conjunction with a proposed residential development to the east of Rollo St and Yarragon-Leongatha Rd.

They said the subdivision “should set an example as a place for happy and healthy people in all stages of life and retain its attraction as a tourist town.”

Cr Peter Kostos said Yarragon was a thriving business community and future residential development would continue to enhance those opportunities.

Cr Kostos said he understood the concerns about green space and connectivity of the subdivision to the town.

“The most important thing is the development of Yarragon for business purposes.

“This is part one of where Yarragon is going to head in the future,” he said.

Cr Joe Gauci said this was a natural progression of where residential living should go to.

“The development is a solution to take drainage flow to the opposite direction, with a retardation basin opposite the development.

“Regardless of whether the other side is developed or not, this stands on its own merit,” he said.

Cr Danny Goss said there were some objections to this application but a lot of the concerns had been ironed out.

“This land is shown as future residential and it meets proper residential design,” he said.