Brimbank council has objected to a proposed social housing development in Albion, citing non-compliance issues with the project’s draft plans.
Homes Victoria is proposing to replace two old public housing homes at 24-26 Burnewang Street in Albion, with a modern 19-unit three-storey apartment building with 11 car parking spaces.
As part of the proposed redevelopment, the building would include 15 one-bedroom apartments and four two-bedroom units.
Community consultation for the project ended on January 31, with council making a submission to Homes Victoria against the development as currently proposed for “a number of reasons”.
According to council’s city futures director Kelvin Walsh, the organisation “is very aware that the need for [social and affordable] housing continues to grow”.
However, Mr Walsh said council was also “committed to considering the needs and amenities of existing residents” and making sure any “new development is appropriately designed and located and adds to the character of the area”.
“Council was unable to support the development at 24-26 Burnewang Street, Albion, in its current form, because the proposed plans did not contain some mandatory and/or required information and did not comply with certain provisions of the Brimbank Planning Scheme,” he said.
Mr Walsh added that should the application be successful, council has requested certain measures be put in place.
“In case the planning minister decides to issue a planning permit for the proposed development, council has suggested some ‘Without Prejudice’ conditions be included on the permit, to make sure the development meets development standards,” he said.
Star Weekly understands that the development would benefit a number of older residents in the Albion area, who are looking to transition into smaller, more accessible homes where they can age in place.
To cater properly to that demographic, Homes Victoria proposes building apartments that have a range of accessibility features.
A Homes Victoria spokesperson said the redevelopment would enable older residents to live comfortably.
“We are engaging with the local community and council to refine and enhance the design to ensure the project achieves best outcomes for the community and for future residents,” the spokesperson said.
