By Tate Papworth
Brimbank council has knocked back another planning application for a development in Derrimut Street, Albion.
The proposal to grant a planning permit for five double-storey dwellings at 47 Derrimut Street was recommended by a council officer.
However, Cr John Hedditch raised an alternate motion at last month’s council meeting, calling for the application to be refused. Cr Hedditch said he had a number of concerns surrounding the proposal.
“This particular development proposes five small homes be included on this particular site,” he said.
“When Albion was built, federation homes were the style and there’s been a whole heap of those homes retained.
“The character of the new development is innovative and new – but it’s five small homes on one corner block and that has a real impact on character in that particular area, so for me it doesn’t pass the character test.
“Also, I think there’s a whole range of issues surrounding the impact of five small houses on one corner block on the streetscapes … they create difficulties for traffic, safety and flow.
“The sight line is within about 250 metres of a local school, so there’s a lot of traffic at certain points of the day, a lot of carparking goes on and vehicle movement.
“These issues need to be thought about and talked about when these particular developments come forward.”
Cr Hedditch said he had every confidence in the development of small homes and alternative housing options but this site was not the right fit.
Cr Bruce Lancashire supported the proposal for 47 Derrimut Street as recommended by council officers.
“The proposed development is consistent with the existing development of the area and as such will integrate into the streetscape,” he said.
“The site is just over 400 metres from the Albion station and is close to jobs, services and transport.”
In November last year, the council rejected a similar proposal for 63 Derrimut Street after a community outcry.
