Council support for Daniels’ subdivision

Amended plans for a multi-lot subdivision in Dollarburn and Brandy Creek Rds, Warragul have been supported by Baw Baw Shire.

A planning permit for a multi lot subdivision of 24 hectares was issued in 2013.

The subdivision sought to carve off the farming zone portion of the land to facilitate a 37 lot residential subdivision with three reserves.

The applicant, Michael Daniels, has now sought to amend the endorsed plan relating to lots nine to 19 of the subdivision.

Planners said the proposal was to reduce the number of lots from 11 to six by removing the proposed King Fern Crt and having six lots gain access from Bowen St.

The report said lots sizes would increase and the reserve would increase from 394 square metres to 5105 square metres. The proposal will result in three battle axe lots. Officers did not support the amended plans. The report said during assessment of the original application, significant consideration was given to the layout of the subdivision to the west of Bowen Street.

In particular, there were concerns relating to the battle axe lots with a clear preference for a road between lots and the reserve.

Planners said the amended design would have a negative impact on urban design and negatively impact on the community’s access to the wetland reserve.

On behalf of the applicant, Liz Daniels told council the walking trail along the creek was a gem in Warragul’s crown.

She said she had a petition signed by hundreds of people supporting extension of the linear trail.

“The linear trail is the best example of social interaction this town has.

Ms Daniels said she doubted there was a new subdivision in Warragul that provided a better amenity.

Moving council support the amended plans, Cr Danny Goss said there were other battle axe blocks south of the development.

He said the issue was whether it was desirable and whether council wanted the open space.

“The planners say it’s poor urban design but surely that is subjective.

“They are larger blocks in that area and they will be desirable,” he said.

Cr Goss said diversity of block sizes and choice for people was important.

Cr Michael Leaney said diversity of lot sizes was important.

He supported the amended design, saying it was a “good change” that fits in with the future of the area.

Cr Peter Kostos did not support the motion and foreshadowed an alternative motion that council adopt the planner’s recommendation to refuse the application.

Cr Kostos said good design was a big issue with subdivisions.

He said good design was not just about a linear park.

“We should not be approving a development that is arguably not in the best interests of the shire and based on a linear park,” Cr Kostos said.

The motion to approve the amended plans was carried. Cr Goss called for a division.

Supporting the motion were Crs Goss, Leaney, Mikaela Power, Keith Cook, Jess O’Donnell and Darren Wallace. Crs Kostos and Joe Gauci opposed the motion.