Ordinary Meeting of Council Council Chambers, Service Centre 275 Upper Heidelberg Road, Ivanhoe 7 March 2016 commencing at 7.45pm Following the public forum commencing at approximately 7.30pm and may be extended to 8pm if necessary.
AGENDA
Acknowledgement of the Traditional Owner, the Wurundjeri willam people "Our meeting is being held on the Traditional Land of the Wurundjeri willam people and, on behalf of Banyule City Council, I wish to acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners. I would also like to pay my respects to the Wurundjeri Elders, past and present, and to the Elders of other Aboriginal peoples who may be here today” Apologies and Leave of Absence Confirmation of Minutes Ordinary Meeting of Council held 22 February 2016 Disclosure of Interests 1. Petitions 1.1 Petition for Parking Restrictions - Olympic Leisure Centre ......................................3 REPORTS: 2. People – Community Strengthening and Support 2.1 Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Draft Master Plans ..............................................7 3. Planet – Environmental Sustainability Nil 4. Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment 4.1 Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan (Revised Draft) ...............................13 4.2 Substituted Plans for VCAT hearing for development of five double storey dwellings at 34 - 36 Munro Street, Macleod................................................18 4.3 Ivanhoe Grammar School - Transition to Compliance ...........................................31 4.4 Urban Planning and Building Activities Report ......................................................38 4.5 Draft Residential Parking Permit Policy - Consultation Timeframes ......................62
AGENDA (Cont’d) 5. Participation – Community Involvement in Community Life Nil 6. Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely 6.1 Items for Noting ...................................................................................................65 6.2 Councillor Strategic Planning Workshop ...............................................................66 6.3 MAV - Provision of a Recruitment Services Contract ............................................72 6.4 Election Period Policy ...........................................................................................77 6.5 14-18 Livingstone Street, Ivanhoe - Hear submissions on proposed sale of land ...........................................................................................83 6.6 Community Information and Support Services - Shop 48 The Mall, West Heidelberg ...................................................................................................89 6.7 9 John Street, Ivanhoe - Proposed lease to Ivanhoe Bowling Club Inc.........................................................................................................................95 6.8 Assembly of Councillors........................................................................................99 7. Sealing of Documents 7.1 Yarra Plenty Regional Library Supplemental Agreement ....................................103 8. Notices of Motion 8.1 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA or Drones)/Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and Model Aircraft......................................................................105 8.2 Traffic Investigation - Rushworth Street and Reeves Street, and Watsonia Primary School....................................................................................107 8.3 Funding Safe Schools Coalition Australia Program in Schools...........................108 8.4 VetRide and its support to the Vietnam Veterans................................................110 8.5 Advocacy for vital transport infrastructure in Banyule and the North East of Melbourne...............................................................................................111 8.6 Review Advocacy Approach to Bullying ..............................................................113 8.7 Banyule City Council Procurement Policy ...........................................................115 8.8 Sealing of Macleod Park Car Park ......................................................................116 9. General Business 10. Urgent Business Closure of Meeting to the Public That in accordance with Section 89(2) of the Local Government Act 1989, Council close the Meeting to members of the public and adjourn for five minutes to allow the public to leave the Chamber prior to considering the following confidential matter: 11. Confidential Matters 11.1 Contractual Matters Matters Discussed in Camera That all confidential matters and reports related to the above item remain confidential unless otherwise specified. Closure of Meeting
Ordinary Meeting of Council - 7 March 2016
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1.1
PETITION FOR PARKING RESTRICTIONS OLYMPIC LEISURE CENTRE
Author:
Ana Caicedo - Traffic & Transport Team Leader, City Development
Ward:
Olympia
File:
F2016/47
1.1
Petitions
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A petition with 34 signatures has been received from residents of Heidelberg Heights, Heidelberg West, Bellfield and surrounding areas requesting the installation of 2 hour parking restrictions for the Olympic Leisure Centre. The petition prayer is as follows: “To Banyule Council As patrons of the Olympic Leisure Centre we would request that times of parking spaces be extended so we can atten (sic) classes without fear of a fine. Most classes are an hour, Mondy (sic) yoga is 1¼ hrs, so we need parking for at least 1.5 hours.” Following the collection of signatures, the main applicant wrote: “To the Councillors, There have been mutterings at the gym about parking for some time and people say they’re afraid of fines for overstaying. Many people come early just to get a park. While collecting signatures, some people commented that they’d like to go to the bakery for coffee but couldn’t unless they get a 2hr park. Of course, not all cars in the area belong to gym patrons, but we’d like you to consider our request.” Further investigation and consultation will need to be undertaken to determine the appropriate parking arrangements required for this area. RECOMMENDATION That Council: 1.
Receives and notes the petition.
2.
Investigates the installation of short-term parking restrictions in the vicinity of Olympic Leisure Centre.
3.
Advises the primary petitioner accordingly.
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1.1
Petitions
PETITION FOR PARKING RESTRICTIONS - OLYMPIC LEISURE CENTRE cont’d DISCUSSION The petition refers to public on-street and off-street parking around the Olympic Leisure Centre, in Heidelberg West. Figure 1 shows the location of the Centre, and other community facilities in the area.
Figure 1. Locality Plan There are around 100 car parking spaces available in the vicinity of the Centre with the majority of spaces (around 40%) with no parking restrictions; some spaces with short-time restrictions during weekdays; four accessible bays; two loading zones; and other arrangement to cater for library vehicles. The signatories have requested the installation of short term (2-hour) parking restrictions to facilitate the use of the gym, and visits to the shops in the area. A breakdown of the location of petition signatories is shown in Table 1. Table 1. Suburbs of Signatories of Petition POSTCODE OF SIGNATORIES
NUMBER OF SIGNATORIES
3081 3084 3079 3085
10 10 5 3
3072 3071 3083 3094
2 1 1 1
N/A TOTAL
34
SUBURBS OF SIGNATORIES
Heidelberg Heights, Heidelberg West, Bellfield Heidelberg, Rosanna, Viewbank, Eaglemont Ivanhoe Macleod, Yallambie 28 Residents within Banyule Gilberton, Preston, Regent West Thornbury Bundoora, LaTrobe University, Kingsbury Montmorency 5 Residents outside Banyule 1 Not stated
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PETITION FOR PARKING RESTRICTIONS - OLYMPIC LEISURE CENTRE cont’d Given the number of trip generators and to maintain a balance on the provision of parking for different visitors to the area, further investigation and consultation is required to determine the appropriate parking arrangements.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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1.1
Petitions
2.1
PETRIE PARK AND RATTRAY RESERVE DRAFT MASTER PLANS
Author:
Lucia Brennan - Recreation Planner, Community Programs
Ward:
Hawdon
File:
F2016/765
2.1
People – Community Strengthening and Support
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In January 2015, Council appointed SGL Consulting Group to work with the community and Council to develop a master plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve, Montmorency. The objective of the project was to prepare a master plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve to ensure the best outcomes for the community, with improved facilities, better linkages and access, and a long term sustainable plan for the precinct. Extensive consultation occurred throughout 2015 with community and sporting groups at Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve, local schools and businesses, Councillors, Council officers and local residents of Montmorency to assist with the development of the draft plan. The draft plans are now ready for the final consultation phase and this report recommends that Council adopt the draft master plan for the purpose of public consultation between 8 March and 19 April 2016 and invite written submission during this period. RECOMMENDATION That Council: 1.
Release the Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve draft master plans for the purpose of community consultation 8 March – 19 April 2016
2.
Invite community members to submit written submissions in relation to the draft plan via communication in the Leader Newspaper (Banyule in brief), Council’s website, Facebook page, direct email to the user groups at Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve
3.
Receive a further report following the community consultation period.
OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter.
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2.1
People – Community Strengthening and Support
PETRIE PARK AND RATTRAY RESERVE DRAFT MASTER PLANS cont’d CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “promote and support health and wellbeing”. BACKGROUND In January 2015, Council appointed SGL Consulting Group Pty Ltd (SGL) as the lead consultant to work with the community and Council to develop a master plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve, Montmorency. SGL prepared the plan in partnership with Practical Ecology and Michael Smith and Associates Landscape Architects and Urban Design during the development of the Master Plan. Petrie Park is a well-developed and heavily utilised recreation reserve, on which exists a sports field, several buildings and a substantial neighbourhood level family play space. Diagonally to the south-east and almost adjacent to Petrie Park is Rattray Reserve. In contrast to the very active and highly patronised Petrie Park, Rattray Reserve has significantly less patronage. Rattray Reserve is best described as a piece of remnant bushland covering approximately 1.9 hectares. The reserve is made up of two Ecological Vegetation Communities, Box-Stringybark Woodland and Valley Grassy Forest, and contains over 150 indigenous flora species. It has limited through traffic and is bounded by the rear fences of residential properties on three of its four sides. The location of both reserves is between Mountain View Rd and Rattray Rd, Montmorency. There are several community groups, organisations, businesses and Council services that exist within Petrie Park/Rattray Reserve. Some of the activities/groups include but are not limited to are scouts, bowls, football, cricket, soccer, pigeon racing, group fitness training, calisthenics, community bushland management, maternal and child health services, gaming and ANZAC commemorations and other associated activities within the Montmorency-Eltham RSL branch. Petrie Park in particular has many different and varied groups operating out of this space across a variety of times. Some of the groups have growing needs and are looking to further develop or expand their facilities and/or times of use whilst other spaces may not be used to their full potential which was explored throughout the consultation process.
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People – Community Strengthening and Support
2.1
PETRIE PARK AND RATTRAY RESERVE DRAFT MASTER PLANS cont’d Locality Plan
Petrie Park, Montmorency. (Note: Rattray Reserve is to the south east)
Rattray Reserve, Montmorency. (Note: Petrie Park is to the north west) ADVOCACY The thoughts and ideas of the community have been reflected within the draft master plan and detailed within the Technical and Consultation Report.
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2.1
People – Community Strengthening and Support
PETRIE PARK AND RATTRAY RESERVE DRAFT MASTER PLANS cont’d HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER Victoria's Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (the Charter) outlines the basic human rights of all people in Victoria. The Charter requires that governments, local councils and other public authorities comply with Charter and to consider relevant Charter rights when they make decisions. In developing this report to Council, the subject matter has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities. It is considered that the subject matter does not raise any human rights issues. CURRENT SITUATION The Master Plan have been prepared to optimise the use of Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve for active and informal recreation and seeks to improve facilities to meet current and future community needs and expectations. The reporting for the master plan is in two sections. The main draft report titled ‘Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan – final draft report – Feb 2016’ is included in Attachment One, and a background research and consultation report titled ‘Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Technical and Consultation Report – Feb 2016 is included in Attachment Two. The key Issues and Opportunities have been identified under the following key areas: • • • • • • • • • •
Unstructured Recreation Access and Egress Pathways Sporting Facilities Community Buildings Parking Fencing Support Infrastructure Vegetation Other
A Key Direction plans which captures the recommendations under each of these key areas for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve is included in Attachment Three and Attachment Four respectively. It should be noted that there was mixed views during the consultation period in regard to the desirability of creating a connection between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. It was considered undesirable to create a connection for several reasons, firstly the only adjoining area where a connection could be considered is quite isolated and lacks casual surveillance which may present a community safety issues; secondly the challenging topography of Rattray Reserve does not allow a fully accessible pathway, particularly towards the upper western end and finally the sensitivities of the flora and fauna associated with this conservation area doesn’t support a thoroughfare into Petrie Park
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People – Community Strengthening and Support
2.1
PETRIE PARK AND RATTRAY RESERVE DRAFT MASTER PLANS cont’d FUNDING IMPLICATIONS The estimated cost to implement all elements of the master plan including a 10% contingency is $3,082,260 excluding GST. This includes a Council contribution of $1,000,000 to the proposed multi-purpose community facility within Petrie Park. Banyule City Council will need to seek partnerships and funding opportunities with various external stakeholders in order to achieve several of the proposed works identified in the master plans. CONSULTATION The project involved extensive consultation with Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve user groups, the community and Council Officers. Household surveys, stakeholder interviews, external reference group workshops and three community drop-in events were conducted to ensure the Master Plan reflects the needs of the local community. Full details of the consultation process and outputs are included in the Technical and Consultation Report. It should be noted that a petition was received for the inclusion of a skate park within Petrie Park. It was not considered appropriate to develop a skate park in this location given the topography of the site and the already high utilisation of the site. It is recognised however that currently there are limited play opportunities for older children and therefore the inclusion of an intergenerational play experience has been identified and noted for consideration in the draft plan. TIMELINES It is proposed that the draft master plan be released for final consultation and comment 8 March – 19 April 2016. A further report will be provided following the consultation period. CONCLUSION The community consultation confirmed that Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve are highly valued reserves for the Montmorency community and provide very different opportunities for the local community. The draft master plan will guide Council to ensure these highly valued community assets serve the local community for the decades to come.
ATTACHMENTS No.
Title
1
Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan - Final Draft Report - Feb 2016
118
2
Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
142
3
Petrie Park Key Directions - Feb 2016
221
4
Rattray Reserve Key Directions - Feb 2016
222
Ordinary Meeting of Council - 7 March 2016
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4.1
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
4.1
HEIDELBERG AND BELL STREET MALL PARKING PLAN (REVISED DRAFT)
Author:
Bailey Byrnes - Transport Planning Team Leader, City Development
Ward:
Griffin and Olympia
File:
F2013/611
Previous Items Council on 9 June 2015 (Item 4.5 - Draft Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan (HBSMPP) considers parking trends and strategies to manage parking in the Heidelberg Activity Centre, the Bell Street Mall area, and their immediate surrounds. The initial draft HBSMPP was prepared and released for community input in June 2016. Following feedback from the community and external stakeholders, additional work was completed to further refine the draft document. A revised draft Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan incorporating this additional work is now proposed for public consultation. Responses to the draft will help inform a final HBSMPP. A final document is planned to be presented to Council for adoption later in the year. RECOMMENDATION That: 1.
Council approve the revised draft Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan and associated parking overlays for public consultation with community feedback invited on the draft documents.
2.
A further report be presented to Council on feedback received during the consultation period. .
OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “support sustainable transport”.
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4.1
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
HEIDELBERG AND BELL STREET MALL PARKING PLAN (REVISED DRAFT) cont’d BACKGROUND The recently adopted Banyule Integrated Transport Plan 2015-2035 provides long term direction in transport and land use decisions in the municipality. One of the strategic directions under the Streets and Public Spaces theme is Parking will be approached as a limited, shared resource. The Banyule Activity Centre Car Parking Policy and Strategy (ACCPPS) was adopted by Council in November 2010 to guide the management of car parking within Banyule’s Activity Centres. One of the key initiatives of the ACCPPS is the development of a Parking Plan for each of Council’s Activity Centres, including Heidelberg, Ivanhoe and Greensborough. The development of parking plans for these centres also delivers on one of Council’s Place objectives of the City Plan to: Improve parking management in activity areas: Develop parking plans for key activity areas including Heidelberg, Greensborough and Ivanhoe. HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER In developing this report to Council, the subject matter has been considered to determine if it raises any human rights issues. In particular, whether the scope of any human right established by the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities is in any way limited, restricted or interfered with by the recommendations contained in this report. It is considered that the subject matter does not raise any human rights issues. It is considered that the draft Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan enhances and protects the following Human Rights: Your right to life (section 9) The accessibility of essential services is important in ensuring the community have access to medical care and associated facilities. This plan further enhances this right by improving accessibility to parking and increasing opportunity for parking through increased turnover. THE DRAFT HEIDELBERG AND BELL STREET MALL PARKING PLAN The aim of the Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan (HBSMPP) is to provide an insight into car parking trends and issues within the Heidelberg Activity Centre, Bell Street Mall Neighbourhood Activity Centre, and their immediate surrounds and to support a future car parking overlay in the Banyule Planning Scheme. The HBMSPP considers parking in the areas shown Figure 1. The preparation of the HBMSPP commenced at the end of 2014, with an initial draft released for public input in June 2015. During the consultation process, opportunities were identified to undertake additional work to further refine the draft HBMSPP and strengthen the strategic justification of the document.
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HEIDELBERG AND BELL STREET MALL PARKING PLAN (REVISED DRAFT) cont’d
Figure 1 – Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan Areas The additional work included:
Additional surveys of the off-street parking areas with the Heidelberg Precinct Core Area (Zone A) conducted in November 2015, to supplement the original on-street and off-street parking surveys undertaken across the study area in November 2014 and February 2015; and An analysis of the economic conditions relating to development and car parking sites within the Heidelberg Precinct Core Area (Zone A).
The revised HBSMPP has been restructured into five sections:
Part 1 reviews relevant Council Policies and strategies to understand how the HBSMPP fits into the broader local context, and considers current parking practices. Part 2 provides an updated assessment of the current conditions within the Heidelberg Activity Centre, Bell Street Mall and surrounding areas, and the current parking trends within the precincts. A snapshot of the current parking supply, utilisation and underlying issues is provided, with consideration given to the needs of all users of car parking in the area. Part 3 is a new section incorporating the assessment of planned future developments and land uses, including an assessment of future parking demand and supply. Part 4 outlines a range of strategies to manage parking and travel demand within the study area. This includes the management of on-street and off-street parking demand, use of parking technology and managing future car parking and travel demand through a parking overlay. Part 5 sets out the parking overlay including the development of parking rates and a financial contribution scheme to contribute to additional parking facilities and local transport infrastructure. This information has been used to prepare draft Parking Overlays for both the Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Activity Centres, and which are appendices to the HBMSPP (See Attachments 2 and 3).
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4.1
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
4.1
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
HEIDELBERG AND BELL STREET MALL PARKING PLAN (REVISED DRAFT) cont’d As the study of parking around Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall has progressed, changes have been made to the car parking supply within the activity centres. This includes the introduction of additional paid parking in the Warringal Parklands, the introduction of a trader permit system and changes to restriction at the Bell Street Mall and the removal of paid parking from the Melbourne Polytechnic site, adjacent to the Bell Street Mall. The parking surveys conducted as part of the HBMSPP were conducted prior to these changes; however the draft document identifies strategies to manage the associated change in parking demand. CONSULTATION Upon release of the revised draft HBSMPP, external stakeholders, traders, businesses, residents and the wider community will be invited to provide feedback on the draft document from 8 March to 23 March, through:
Notification of land owners and tenants within the study area. An update of the Banyule Website, including links to the draft HBSMPP. A consultation survey (to be available through the Banyule Website).
Community members who provided feedback during the June – July 2015 consultation period will also be notified and invited to provide further comment. The final HBSMPP will consider and incorporate additional feedback obtained through the consultation process and any further work completed through the economic analysis. The final document is expected to be presented to Council for adoption later in 2016. The draft HBSMPP includes the draft schedules to the Parking Overlays as appendices. Consultation on the draft will help inform the preparation of the Planning Scheme Amendment to introduce these schedules to the Banyule Planning Scheme. Once the final HBSMPP is adopted, a report will be presented to Council to request the Minister for Planning to authorise exhibition of the Planning Scheme Amendment. It is planned that the Amendment be publically exhibited in May/June 2016. CONCLUSION The draft HBSMPP has been prepared in response to a key initiative in Council’s City Plan. The document provides an insight into car parking trends and issues within the Heidelberg Activity Centre, the Bell Street Mall area, and their immediate surrounds. The revised document includes additional work to strengthen the strategic justification of the HBSMPP, providing an evidence-based analysis of current parking demand in the area, and identifies strategies to better manage parking demand into the future. Further consultation is proposed to inform the final document.
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Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
4.1
HEIDELBERG AND BELL STREET MALL PARKING PLAN (REVISED DRAFT) cont’d
ATTACHMENTS No.
Title
1
Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - February 2016 Draft (Under Separate Cover)
2
Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 2 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
223
3
Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 3 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
229
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4.2
SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD.
Author:
Susan Stearn - Development Planner, City Development
Ward:
Ibbott
File:
P757/2014
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The applicant has submitted revised plans for the upcoming Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal hearing (VCAT ref: P1617/2015) seeking to modify the original application from 19 dwellings over three stories in an apartment building to five double storey dwellings. Two dwellings will now present to Munro Street with three presenting to Leith Walk each provided with single vehicle crossings. A review has been lodged by the applicant against Council’s refusal of a planning permit for 19 dwellings in an apartment style typology at 34 – 36 Munro Street, Macleod. The applicant has substituted revised plans for the upcoming Tribunal hearing which modifies the proposal to five double storey dwellings. Two dwellings will now present to Munro Street with three presenting to Leith Walk. At this stage in the process, Council must form a view on the modified proposal which will then form the basis of Council’s position at VCAT. Council must also provide ‘without prejudice conditions’ to the Tribunal and all parties. These conditions will be considered in the event the Tribunal directs that a permit be issued for the modified proposal. The substituted plans represent an improved outcome, however it is considered that the modified proposal should not be supported without further changes. RECOMMENDATION PART A That Council: 1.
Note that the substituted plans represent an improved proposal for a multidwelling out come at 34-36 Munro Street, Macleod.
2.
Does not support the substituted plans due to: a)
The bulk and mass of the built form in particular with regards to sheer walls of Dwellings 1, 2 and 3 of the proposal and is contrary to both the existing and preferred character of the neighbourhood, would erode the spacious and well landscaped character and have an adverse visual impact on the streetscape contrary to Clauses 15.01-1 – Urban Design, 21.04-1 – Housing, 22.02 - Residential Neighbourhood Character Policy and Standards B1 – Neighbourhood Character and B31 – Design detail of Clause 55 (ResCode) of the Banyule Planning Scheme.
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4.2
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d
b)
The internal amenity of Bedroom 2 Dwelling 1 is considered to be compromised by poor solar access and excessive reliance on highlight windows which is considered contrary to Standard B27 – Daylight to new windows objective of Clause 55 (ResCode) of the Banyule Planning Scheme.
c)
The proposal has not demonstrated adequate storage facilities to Dwelling 1 contrary to Standard B30 – Storage Objective of Clause 55 (ResCode) of the Banyule Planning Scheme.
d)
The development incorporates a design which is considered contrary to the preferred neighbourhood character in terms of sheer walls presenting to the street, and roof forms of Dwellings 1 and 2 presenting to Munro Street, contrary to Standard B31 – Design Detail Objective of Clause 55 (ResCode) of the Banyule Planning Scheme.
e)
The proposed vehicle crossings to Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 which present to Leith Walk are insufficiently setback form the road reserve to prevent parked vehicles overhanging which is considered contrary to the Objectives and Polices of Clause 52.06.
RECOMMENDATION PART B That Council provide to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal the following draft conditions to consider in the event that the Tribunal approves the proposal: Plans 1.
Before the development permitted by this permit starts, amended plans to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority must be submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. When approved, the plans will be endorsed and will then form part of the permit. The plans must be drawn to scale with dimensions and three copies must be provided. The plans must be generally in accordance with the advertised plans submitted with the application but modified to show: (a)
One dwelling modified to comply with Councils Livable Housing Design Guidelines.
(b)
Bedroom 2 serving Dwelling 2 to be deleted with the associated reduction in the extent of upper floor.
(c)
Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 to have front setbacks to Leith Walk of 5.0m from the wall of the dwelling with associated reduction to the private open space.
(d)
The retreat room on the upper floor of Dwelling 3 to be setback from the ground footprint of the building by 1.0m.
(e)
The water tank serving Dwelling 2 be relocated to the service yard on the southern boundary.
(f)
Dwelling 1 to provide 6.0m3 of externally accessible storey.
(g)
The use of a pitched style roof applied to Dwellings 1 and 2.
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4.2
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
4.2
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d (h)
The introduction of differential building materials and colours pallets between the façades of Dwellings 1 and 2 to aid variation between the two dwellings.
(i)
Landscaping as required by Condition 2 of this permit;
(j)
Engineering plans showing a properly prepared design with computations for the internal drainage and method for of disposal of stormwater from all roofed areas and sealed areas including: (i)
The use of an On-site Stormwater Detention (OSD) system;
(ii)
The connection to the Council nominated legal point of discharge;
(k)
A schedule of external building materials and colours, including details of cladding and roofing materials which are of muted non-reflective tones; the schedule should be presented on a separate sheet and must include colour samples.
(l)
A Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) assessment using: The online Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS) or Sustainable Tools for Environmental Performance Strategy (STEPS) tool providing the STEPS report, STORM report and FirstRate certificates for each unique dwelling and any further information in support of the assessment. www.sustainablesteps.com.au
2.
(m)
The integration details and connections of all Stormwater treatment features in accordance with the endorsed Sustainable Design Assessment required by Condition 1 (j) and STORM report and a reference to further details on the landscape plan
(n)
The provision of 2 advanced street trees at the cost of the developer and to the satisfaction of Councils Parks and Gardens Department.
(o)
Corner splay areas at least 50 per cent clear of visual obstructions extending at least 2m along the frontage road from the edge of the exit lane and 2.5m along the exit lane from the frontage to each vehicle crossing, to provide a clear view of pedestrians on the footpath of the frontage road. The area clear of visual obstructions may include an adjacent entry or exit lane where more than one lane is provided.
The development permitted by this permit must not be commenced until a satisfactory detailed landscaping plan is submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. Such plan must be prepared by a person suitably qualified or experienced in landscape design and shall include: (a)
Details of planting within the secluded outdoor living areas and front setbacks;
(b)
The identification of existing vegetation (which is not intended to be removed), and nomination of vegetation for removal throughout the site;
(c)
Provision of formed garden beds with edging around the landscape zone within the front setback to prevent cars parking within those areas
(d)
Planting adjacent to driveways and within landscaping zones to consist of varying heights and species;
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d (e)
Provision of replacement planting for vegetation that is to be removed including a minimum of (4) large canopy trees (mature height of at least 12m) planted at a semi-advanced state (minimum pot size 40 litre) within the front setback of Dwelling 1 and 2 fronting Munro Street and the seclude outdoor living area of Dwelling 4 and 5, and (2) medium canopy trees (mature height of at least 10m) planted at a semi-advanced state (minimum pot size 16 litre) along the northern boundary and (5) small canopy trees (mature height of at least 8m) planted throughout the site;
(f)
An indigenous and/or drought tolerant planting theme;
(g)
A schedule of all proposed trees, shrubs and ground cover, which includes the location and size at maturity of all plants, the botanical names of such plants and the location of all areas to be covered by grass, lawn or other surface material as specified;
(h)
Location and details of paving, steps, retaining walls, water tanks, clotheslines, fence design details and other landscape works including cut and fill.
(i)
Location, details and cross section drawings of all Water Sensitive Urban Design features in accordance with the endorsed Sustainable Design Assessment/Sustainable Management Plan and STORM report required by Condition 1(j) of this permit, with reference to connection details on the engineering plans.
General 3.
The development as shown on the endorsed plans or described in the endorsed documents must not be altered or modified except with the written consent of the Responsible Authority.
4.
Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Responsible Authority the development permitted by this permit must not be occupied until the development has been completed to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority in accordance with the permit and endorsed plans (including, but not limited to built form and layout, parking, landscaping, drainage, street numbering, replacement of street trees).
Urban Design / External Appearance 5.
The walls of the development on the boundary of adjoining properties must be cleaned and finished in a manner to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.
Car Parking / Access 6.
Areas set aside for the parking of vehicles together with the aisles and access lanes must be properly formed to such levels that they can be utilised in accordance with the endorsed plans and must be drained and provided with an all weather seal coat. The areas must be constructed, drained and maintained in a continuously useable condition to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d 7.
Areas set aside for the parking and movement of vehicles as shown on the endorsed plans must be made available for such use and must not be used for any other purpose.
8.
Vehicular access or egress to the subject land from any roadway or service lane must be by way of a vehicle crossing constructed in accordance with Council’s Vehicle Crossing Specifications to suit the proposed driveways and the vehicles that will use the crossings. The location, design and construction of the vehicle crossings must be approved by the Responsible Authority. Any existing unused crossings must be removed and replaced with concrete kerb, channel and naturestrip to the satisfaction of the Council prior to occupation of the building. All vehicle crossing works are to be carried out with Council Supervision under a Memorandum of Consent for Works which must be obtained prior to commencement of works.
Tree Protection / Landscaping 9.
Except with the further written consent of the Responsible Authority, no vegetation (other than that indicated on the endorsed plan, or exempt from planning permission under the provisions of the Banyule Planning Scheme) shall be damaged, removed, destroyed or lopped.
10.
Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Responsible Authority, prior to the commencement of works (including demolition) on the site Tree Preservation Zones must be established around Council Street tree within the road reserve on Munro Street. You must contact Council’s Development Planning Arborist on 9457 9878 once the Tree Preservation Fencing is erected so that an inspection of the fencing can be carried out. Once installed and inspected the Tree Preservation Zones must be maintained to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority, and meet the following requirements: (a)
Extent Tree Preservation Zones are to be provided to the extent of the canopy of the trees indicated as being retained on the endorsed plan within the road reserve.
(b)
Weed control Any weeds located within the Tree Preservation Zone are to be removed and the area mulched with 100mm of composted coarse grade woodchips.
(c)
Fencing (i)
Vegetation Preservation fences with a minimum height of 1.2 to 1.5 metres of chain mesh or like and a top line of high visibility plastic hazard tape must be erected around the perimeter of the zone.
(ii)
The posts must be strong enough to sustain knocks from on site excavation equipment.
(iii)
The fences must not be removed or relocated without the prior consent of the Responsible Authority.
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d (d)
Signage Fixed signs are to be provided on all visible sides of the Tree Preservation Fencing, stating “Tree Preservation Zone – No entry without permission from the City of Banyule”.
(e)
Irrigation The area must be irrigated during the summer months with 1 litre of clean water for every 1 cm of trunk girth measured at the soil / trunk interface on a weekly basis.
(f)
Access to Tree Preservation Zone (i)
(ii)
(iii) (iv)
No persons, vehicles or machinery are to enter the Vegetation Protection Zone except with the consent of the Responsible Authority; No fuel, oil dumps or chemicals are allowed to be used or stored within the Vegetation Preservation Zone and the servicing and refuelling of equipment and vehicles must be carried out away from the root zones; No storage of material, equipment or temporary building is to take place within the Vegetation Preservation Zone; Nothing whatsoever, including temporary services wires, nails, screws or any other fixing device, is to be attached to any tree.
Time Limits 11.
In accordance with section 68 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, this permit will expire if one of the following circumstances applies: (a)
The development is not commenced within two years of the date of this permit;
(b)
The development is not completed within four years of the date of this permit.
In accordance with section 69 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, the Responsible Authority may extend the periods referred to if a request is made in writing: (a)
Before the permit expires, or
(b)
Within six months afterwards, or
(c)
Within 12 months afterwards if the development started lawfully before the permit expired. n the endorsed plan within the road reserve.
(g)
Weed control Any weeds located within the Tree Preservation Zone are to be removed and the area mulched with 100mm of composted coarse grade woodchips.
(h)
Fencing (i)
Vegetation Preservation fences with a minimum height of 1.2 to 1.5 metres of chain mesh or like and a top line of high visibility plastic hazard tape must be erected around the perimeter of the zone.
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d
(i)
(ii)
The posts must be strong enough to sustain knocks from on site excavation equipment.
(iii)
The fences must not be removed or relocated without the prior consent of the Responsible Authority.
Signage Fixed signs are to be provided on all visible sides of the Tree Preservation Fencing, stating “Tree Preservation Zone – No entry without permission from the City of Banyule”.
(j)
Irrigation The area must be irrigated during the summer months with 1 litre of clean water for every 1 cm of trunk girth measured at the soil / trunk interface on a weekly basis.
(k)
Access to Tree Preservation Zone (i)
(ii)
(iii) (iv)
No persons, vehicles or machinery are to enter the Vegetation Protection Zone except with the consent of the Responsible Authority; No fuel, oil dumps or chemicals are allowed to be used or stored within the Vegetation Preservation Zone and the servicing and refuelling of equipment and vehicles must be carried out away from the root zones; No storage of material, equipment or temporary building is to take place within the Vegetation Preservation Zone; Nothing whatsoever, including temporary services wires, nails, screws or any other fixing device, is to be attached to any tree.
Time Limits 12.
In accordance with section 68 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, this permit will expire if one of the following circumstances applies: (c)
The development is not commenced within two years of the date of this permit;
(d)
The development is not completed within four years of the date of this permit.
In accordance with section 69 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, the Responsible Authority may extend the periods referred to if a request is made in writing: (a)
Before the permit expires, or
(b)
Within six months afterwards, or
(c)
Within 12 months afterwards if the development started lawfully before the permit expired.
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d Planning Permit Application:
P757/2014
Development Planner:
Susan Stearn
Address:
34 – 36 Munro Street, Macleod
Proposal:
Development of five double storey dwellings
Existing Use/Development:
Double storey office building
Applicant:
Mr Shamsher Dahiya
Zoning:
General Residential Zone 2
Overlays:
Vegetation Protection Overlay – Schedule 5
Notification (Advertising):
Original Notification 5 December 2014
Objections Received:
Seventy (70) objections received
Ward:
Ibbott
OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. BACKGROUND/HISTORY P133/2014 26 February 2014 – Application for a multi-dwelling development for the construction of six (6) dwellings which subsequently lapsed. P757/2014 30 June 2014 – Application lodged with Council for multi-unit development (19 apartments and 22 basement car spaces). 28 July 2014 – request for further information – Council correspondence raised issues with the built form, layout, services and access. 5 December 2014 – Advertising of application commenced. 24 July 2015 – Refusal to Grant Planning Permit issued. 24 July 2015 – Application for Review appeal lodged by applicant with VCAT. 4 February 2016 – The applicant submitted substituted plans to VCAT which reduced the development from 19 apartments to five double storey dwellings. The resubstituted plans are now those being considered by the Council and the Tribunal.
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d Amended Plans The plans revised as part of this assessment are those received by Council on the 4 February 2016 which includes the development of the site for 5 double storey dwellings. The plans are those submitted as revised plans to the pending VCAT hearing (VCAT ref: 1617/2015)
SUBJECT SITE AND SURROUNDING AREA The subject site consists of a disused community hall with a car park and some scattered shrub plantings and small trees. Due to the topography of the site, the building presents as a single storey built form towards the north and a two-storey built form to the south and has 55.4% site coverage. The building predominately consists of cream brick walls with pitched iron roofing. The car parking is located in the north-western portion of the site with a driveway coming off Munro Street. The surrounding area is predominantly characterised by a mixture of single and double-storey dwellings with face brickwork walls and pitched tiled roofs. The properties in the surrounding area consist of either single dwellings or two-dwelling developments. However, there is a three-dwelling development at no. 29 Munro Street, a four-dwelling development at no. 65 Braid Hill Road, and a large scale development along Braid Hill Road and Erskine Road. The streetscape along Munro Street is made up of frontages that generally consist of lawn and shrubs, with some properties containing small trees and/or low brick or timber picket front fences. The frontages along Munro Street are predominately between 7 metres and 10 metres. Site area Subject to flooding?
1393.5m2 No
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d MODIFIED OUTCOME FOR FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 – 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD The modified plans seek to reduce the proposal from an apartment style building of 19 dwellings to five double storey townhouses over the two lots.
Dwelling 1 Dwelling 2 Dwelling 3 Dwelling 4 Dwelling 5
Secluded private open space 49m2 and service area 16m2 44m2 and service yard 18m2 40m2
Car parking provision
Bedrooms
Height
2 Car Garage
4 and retreat room
Double storey
2 Car Garage
4 and retreat room
Double storey
2 Car Garage
3 and retreat room
81m2
2 Car Garage
3 and retreat room
84m2
2 Car Garage
3 and retreat room
Double storey Double storey Double storey
Dwellings 1 and 2 will present to Munro Street to the west while dwellings 3, 4 and 5 will front Leith Walk to the south. As it presents to Munro Street Dwellings 1 and 2 have a 9.0m front setback. Double garages are provide to the northern side of each dwelling and the ground floors contain bedrooms, bathrooms and open plan living/dining/kitchen areas. Secluded outdoor living is provided to the east by way of courtyards. Upper floors both contain three bedrooms and retreat spaces. Dwellings 2, 3 and 4 present to Leith Walk to the south and have front setbacks backs of 3.0m increasing to 4.0m. These dwellings are also provided with double garages and entranceways presenting to the street. The ground floor contains a bathroom and open plan living/kitchen/dining areas. Courtyards are provided directly to the north. Upper floors contain three bedrooms each, associated bathrooms and retreat rooms. The proposed building site coverage is 44%. PUBLIC NOTIFICATION When an applicant seeks to amend an application that is the subject of review at the Tribunal, it must circulate the modified proposal to all parties to the review, all objectors to the application and any person that was given notice of the original proposal. The Tribunal requires that this occur at least 30 days prior to the review hearing date.
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d At this stage in the process, Council and objecting residents are separate parties in the matter, although they may share views and positions on elements of the modified proposal. Given the limited timeframes and that this is now a Tribunal and not a Council process, there is limited opportunity for Council to host public consultation. However, a meeting was convened at the request of a small group of objecting parties with the Ward Councillor and representation from the Development Planning unit. The majority of the concerns raised in objections to the original proposal are no longer applicable to the current substituted plans given the departure from an apartment style built form to residential town houses. Nonetheless, a number of concerns were raised with regards to access, parking and traffic safety. A full response to objections raised is discussed and included in Attachment 1. The resubstituted plans have not been re-advertised. However, they were available for review at a public consultation meeting held on the 12 February 2016. The following is a summary of the concerns raised at the meeting. • • • • • • • •
Extent of garages excessive; Extent of building coverage and built form presenting to the surrounding properties and street excessive; Insufficient landscaping to soften built form; Waste management not sufficiently considered; Double storey nature of the development inconsistent with surrounding area; Leith Walk is inappropriate to provide access to the site; Insufficient services demonstrated to each dwelling; No visitor parking space provided.
REFERRAL COMMENTS ENGINEERING SERVICES Council’s Engineering Services Section have reviewed the proposal and raised no major concerns. Formal comments are available on file. Standard conditions relating to access, parking areas and drainage requested should be included on any approval issued. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING SERVICES The revised proposal has been considered by Councils Traffic Engineering Services. The following comments are made in relation to the proposal. The development demonstrates compliance in terms of the standards of Clause 52.06 Car Parking and Access. In relation to the use of Leith Walk the following comments are made: •
Leith Walk is currently in the process of receiving submissions on the proposal to permanently close this road between Munro Street and Braid Hill Road.
•
A report was submitted to Council on the 21 September 2015, and a public notice was advertised requesting submissions.
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d •
The extent of road closure by the provision of bollards to restrict vehicles only will be determined on review of the submission process. The location of the bollards is undetermined at this time. Should any development be approved on the subject site which may be impacted by the road closer this will form part of the report review on conclusion of the advertising period.
•
A report informing Council as to whether the road will be closed or not is to be considered at the meeting on the 4 April 2016. This meeting will also determine whether the portion of the road required will remain accessible to this development.
•
The width of the Leith Walk is considered sufficient for the expected traffic generated by Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 which will have access to it.
PLANNING CONTROLS RESPONSE TO POLICY FRAMEWORK The proposed development has demonstrated a number of variations to the relative State and Local Planning Policies seeking urban consolidation and housing diversity in appropriate locations. Both levels of policy also require an appropriate response to neighbourhood character and residential amenity which is discussed within the attached Clause 55 and Residential Neighbourhood Character Policy assessment. OVERLAY PROVISIONS The subject site is affected by Schedule 5 to the Vegetation Protection Overlay. As the subject site does not consist of any trees that are either greater than 12 metres in height and/or have a trunk diameter of greater than 40cm when measured at 1.4 metres above the base of the tree. As such, the proposed development is of no consequence having regard to this overlay. RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBOURHOOD CHARACTER POLICY ASSESSMENT (CLAUSE 22.02) The proposal does demonstrate compliance with some of the objectives of the Garden Suburban 2 however, on balance there are a number of variations to which a modified design proposal should be considered. A detailed assessment of the variations is attached. RESCODE ASSESSMENT (CLAUSE 55) An assessment against the provisions of Clause 55 (ResCode) of the Banyule Planning Scheme has been undertaken and is included as an attachment to this report. The proposal seeks to vary a number of standards of this clause. The proposal seeks to vary the following standards: •
Residential Policy Objectives (Standard B2)
•
Accessibility Objective (Standard B25) – a permit condition can require that one of the dwellings (Dwellings 1 or 2 are suggested) is modified internally to comply with the Councils Livable Design Guidelines.
•
Daylight to new windows objective (Standard B27) – permit conditions can require the reconfiguration of Bedroom 2 of Dwelling 1 to improve solar access to this living space and internal amenity.
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SUBSTITUTED PLANS FOR VCAT HEARING FOR DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE DOUBLE STOREY DWELLINGS AT 34 - 36 MUNRO STREET, MACLEOD. cont’d •
Storage Objective (Standard B30) – Dwelling 1 has not demonstrated the provision of external storage. This can be provided by way of a permit condition.
•
Design Detail Objective (Standard B31) – the development introduces a number of roof forms and sheer wall elements. Permit conditions could require that the built forms be modified to improve articulation and introduce pitched roof forms.
CAR PARKING ASSESSMENT (CLAUSE 52.06) Each dwelling is provided with the necessary two onsite car parking spaces within a secure garage parking. No concerns have been raised with regards to the access arrangements and permit conditions will require crossings and sealed and formed with associated splay areas to ensure pedestrian safety. The proposal demonstrates compliance with the requirements of Clause 52.06. The proposal does not provide a visitor car parking space. The reduction in this visitor parking space is supported by Councils Traffic Engineers. It is considered that given the dual interfaces as well as the retention of street parking on Munro Street that 1 visitor space can be easily accommodated within the surrounding road network with no adverse impacts to the safe and efficient operation of the surrounding road network. Conclusion The proposal has taken advantage of the large nature of the lot, dual frontages and solar access. The scale and nature of a multi-unit development particularly for five dwellings could be considered in this location and within the context of the established residential neighbourhood. However, there are a number of variations to the relative state and local planning policy in particular the neighbourhood character policy and Clause 55 which would need to be addressed by a number of variations to the design. A number of permit conditions would be required in order to ensure the development on balance complies with the relevant objectives and policies sought in this location.
ATTACHMENTS No.
Title
1
Response to Original Objections
233
2
Neighbourhood Character Assessment
238
3
Clause 55 Assessment
245
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4.3
IVANHOE GRAMMAR SCHOOL - TRANSITION TO COMPLIANCE
Author:
Andy Wilson - Team Leader - Development Planning, City Development
Ward:
Griffin
File:
P777/1999
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The development of Ivanhoe Grammar School is currently transitioning between the old development plan (February 2000) and the new plan approved in June 2015 and now recently endorsed. There are expectations set under the previously approved development plan that have not been fulfilled, such as the provision of car parking. These expectations will be resolved with the completion of projects scheduled under the newly approved development plan. The school has also provided written confirmation that its staff and student numbers are in excess of the maximums allowed under the February 2000 Development Plan. Council, at its meeting on 5 October 2015, resolved to extend the existing development plan for a transitional period on the condition that Ivanhoe Grammar School carry out certain actions (including increasing on site car parking) by the commencement of school in Term 1 of 2016. As these conditions have not been satisfied by the school within the specified timeframe, an alternative outcome is required. On 8 February 2016, Council was asked to consider a plan for the school to transition to compliance however, the matter was deferred to allow time for the school to provide some further detail, particularly with regards to the location of additional car parking spaces on site. This report outlines a number of methods the school can use to reduce the demand for onsite car parking and while it will not reach complete compliance, a smaller shortfall can be achieved. The school has asked Council to consider accepting a reduction of 41 car parking spaces (based on the statutory rate, which can be reduced to 30 based on the empirical rate used under the 2000 development plan) for an additional period until the commencement of term 1 2017. It is considered that it is reasonable to accept this shortfall for this period. RECOMMENDATION That Council: 1.
Agree to additional staff and student numbers until the commencement of term one 2017 on the basis that: a.
The additional staff increase of 43 (total of 254 as of 17 February 2016) is reduced to no more than 31 additional staff onsite at any one time.
b.
An agreed car parking plan showing a total of 152 car parking spaces available for all staff at the Ridgeway Campus is accepted.
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IVANHOE GRAMMAR SCHOOL - TRANSITION TO COMPLIANCE cont’d c.
Student numbers do not exceed a total of 1505 (an excess of 105 students) for the transition period.
d.
The school further explore opportunities to provide additional parking which will be available to staff during the period of transition and also during construction of buildings under the new development plan.
2.
Agree to transition arrangements which vary the plan including an additional shortfall of 41 on-site car parking spaces until the commencement of term one, 2017.
3.
Where the transition arrangement agreed to in 1 above is not met, undertake appropriate action to ensure that the transition arrangement or any other formal approval as appropriate that applies to the land is met. This includes the principle of limiting the increase in staff (above the maximum approved under the 2000 Development Plan) to 0.833 to each new car parking space (above the number of spaces required under the 2000 Development Plan).
4.
Write to the school to inform them of Council’s decision.
5.
Write to residents in the locality to inform them of Council’s decision.
Planning Permit Application:
P777/1999
Development Planner:
Andy Wilson
Address:
41 The Ridgeway, Ivanhoe
Proposal:
Development Plan approval
Existing Use/Development:
Ivanhoe Grammar School
Applicant:
Whiteman Property and Accounting
Zoning:
Neighbourhood Residential Zone 3, General Residential Zone 2
Overlays:
Development Plan Overlay 4, Environmental Significance Overlay 4, Vegetation Protection Overlay 3, Significant Landscape Overlay 2, Land Subject to Inundation Overlay, Heritage Overlay (HO69)
Notification (Advertising):
No
Ward:
Griffin
This report outlines how Ivanhoe Grammar School aims to satisfy Council’s expectations during the period of transition between the end of the existing 2000 development plan and the commencement of the new development plan approved in 2015. The school was asked to comply with certain requirements, particularly as it relates to car parking and staff numbers, by the commencement of Term 1, 2016. It is now apparent that the School has not met these requirements and therefore an alternative solution is required.
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IVANHOE GRAMMAR SCHOOL - TRANSITION TO COMPLIANCE cont’d OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. BACKGROUND/HISTORY On 9 June 2015, Council resolved to approve a Development Plan for Ivanhoe Grammar School until 2021. The approval was granted subject to a number of changes including provision of additional information such as the provision of census information to confirm the current student and staff numbers. The approval was also subject to a series of recommendations to achieve compliance in the interim period between the expiry of the existing development plan and the commencement of the new. The first Ivanhoe Grammar School Development Plan was approved on 1 February 2000 (P777/1999). This plan has been extended several times with the most recent extension through until July of 2015. Without an extension to this plan and in absence of the new plan formally commencing, there is uncertainty about which development plan should be adhered to. On 5 October 2015, Council resolved to extend the existing Development Plan timeframe so as to ensure it remains enforceable in the interim before the new plan is finalised. However, Council resolved to do this on the condition that Ivanhoe Grammar School meet particular expectations including that the school (from item 1): a.
b.
c.
Increase on site car parking by 47 spaces to the satisfaction of Council by the commencement of Term 1 2016 to meet the statutory demand for the number of staff that exceeds the number of staff permitted under the 2000 development plan. Alternatively, the School must ensure its staff and student numbers do not exceed that permitted under the 2000 development plan by the commencement of Term 1 2016. Provide a plan that demonstrates how vehicles can enter the site and exit again through Russell Street for early morning drop offs to the Council’s satisfaction by December 2015. Provide a Tree Care Management Plan to Council’s satisfaction by December 2015. This plan must outline the current outstanding compliance matters relating to replacement tree planting for trees removed without planning permission.
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4.3
IVANHOE GRAMMAR SCHOOL - TRANSITION TO COMPLIANCE cont’d
Figure 1: Locality Plan
SUBJECT SITE AND SURROUNDING AREA Ivanhoe Grammar School is located on the southern side of Lower Heidelberg Road, to the east of its intersection with Upper Heidelberg Road. It is bounded by The Boulevard to the south and The Ridgeway and Russell Street to the east and west respectively. The area is typically characterised by residential development set within established gardens. The site is located approximately 500m from the centre of Ivanhoe and is set between Darebin (450m) and Ivanhoe (350m) train stations.
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IVANHOE GRAMMAR SCHOOL - TRANSITION TO COMPLIANCE cont’d TECHNICAL CONSIDERATION Provision of additional onsite car parking Ivanhoe Grammar School has advised Council that it was not able to satisfy item 1(a) of Council’s resolution from 5 October 2015 which requires the provision of an additional 47 spaces on site or reduce staff and student numbers to accord with the approved 2000 development plan. The school proposes the construction of an underground car park which will ensure compliance with regards to on-site car parking in the long term. However, before this is constructed, to ensure that the school provides an appropriate number of car parking spaces on site in the interim, a combination of measures is required. The school has been non-compliant with regards to staff numbers and associated onsite parking for some time however, with the completion of the underground car park, the school will have a surplus of onsite car parking spaces which will bring it into compliance. The requirement for an additional 47 spaces to be provided on site (as required in the resolution from 5 October 2015) was partly based on the current shortfall of car spaces on site which was identified as 12 at the time the report was written. However, the school has now confirmed that it has 152 car parking spaces available on site which is outlined in a detailed site plan, clearly delineating the spaces. These spaces have been verified onsite and represents a shortfall of 4 spaced from that required under the 2000 development plan. Of greater significance is the car parking demand generated by additional staff working on site in excess of that approved under the 2000 development plan. The 2015 staff census revealed an excess of 37 staff. However, the Principal of Ivanhoe Grammar School has confirmed in a letter to Council that its current staff number (as of 17 February 2016) is 254, an excess of 43 staff. The school has indicated that this number is somewhat fluid and may vary throughout the year but due to budgetary constraints, is not likely to exceed this. The 2016 staff census is required in August 2016 at which time Council will be able to reassess the staff number to determine if it is within an acceptable range. This excess in staff generates a statutory demand of 51 additional on-site car parking spaces (1.2 spaces x 43 additional staff). However, when assessing an appropriate number of car parking spaces under the 2000 development plan a rate of 0.87 spaces per staff was used. This was based on a survey which confirmed that 87% of staff drove to work. By applying this empirical rate, the statutory requirement for 51 spaces could be reduced to 37 which would ensure that a consistent methodology is applied. In addition, the school has noted a number of options to reduce the demand for onsite parking. Firstly the school has advised that its maintenance staff are now required to park at Chelsworth Park, freeing an additional 3 spaces on site. Similarly, three staff included in the overall staff number are employed at a site on Lower Heidelberg Road, outside the DPO area. These staff park at the offsite location and therefore do not generate demand on the main school site.
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IVANHOE GRAMMAR SCHOOL - TRANSITION TO COMPLIANCE cont’d Lastly, the school has indicated that it can better manage its part time staff so as to coordinate the sharing of specific parking spaces on site. It has submitted a table outlining its part time staff and the days/hours they work and the opportunity that exists to have staff share spaces. They have identified the ability to have 12 staff share spaces, therefore reducing the demand by a further 6 spaces. By combining these measures, 12 additional car parking spaces can be made available on site, reducing the excess staff on site from 43 to 31. By applying a rate of 0.87 car parking spaces per staff, a shortfall of 26 spaces is derived. Table 1 below demonstrates this: Table 1 Excess staff Car parking required Car parking required (Statutory rate 1.2) (empirical rate 0.87) 2015 Census staff 37 44 32 number February 2016 43 51 37 staff number Staff number as a 26 31 37 result of above measures Therefore, noting that the school is 4 spaces short of the requirement under the 2000 development plan (156) and by applying an empirical rate of 0.87 car parking spaces per staff in excess of the 2000 development plan (211), the school has a shortfall of 30 car parking spaces (a statutory shortfall of 41 spaces). Ivanhoe Grammar School has therefore requested that Council accept a reduction in on site car parking for the outstanding amount and instead require compliance by the beginning of term one 2017. It is considered acceptable to allow the school to maintain its current level of excess staff as it does not result in an unreasonable impact on car parking in the locality. Further measures including moving staff to an offsite location or imposing fines for non-compliance are unlikely to result in an appreciable improvement in parking and traffic conditions in the locality. In addition, and given the further increase staff numbers reported to Council on 19 February 2016, Ivanhoe Grammar School should explore pursue further to increase onsite parking for a temporary interim period. Furthermore, it is noted that the new development plan (2016-2021) has now been endorsed which provides for a total of 270 on site car parking spaces (128 new spaces) which constitutes an overall surplus of 55 car parking spaces (based on the statutory rate of 1.2 spaces x 49 new staff and minus the shortfall of four spaces). In the context of the approval of the new development plan, if the transitional arrangements are not met, appropriate action should be undertaken to ensure that the transition arrangement or any other formal approval as appropriate that applies to the land is met. It is also noted that: •
Any additional car parking spaces made available during the transition period (up until commencement of term 1 of 2017) will not provide for a further increase in staff; and
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IVANHOE GRAMMAR SCHOOL - TRANSITION TO COMPLIANCE cont’d •
At the commencement of term 1 of 2017, any increase in staff above the maximum approved under the 2000 Development Plan must be accompanied by an increase in car spaces at the statutory rate of 1.2 per staff member (0.833 staff per car parking space).
Student numbers IGS has provided an extract of its student census data to the Education Department as at 15 August 2015. The extract lists students by grade with a total of 1505 being a surplus of 105 students for the transition period. The school has indicated that the numbers have not increased since this census date and this would be verified with the provision of the August 2016 results to Council. Other items Item 1(b) of Council’s resolution from 5 October 2015, requires alterations to the south ground car park to ensure vehicles can enter the site and exit again via Russell Street for early morning drop offs. The school has demonstrated that this has now been achieved. With regards to current traffic movement between Elphin Street and Fairy Street, it is noted that the new development plan has been approved on the basis that access control be specified including restricting vehicle access through these gates to staff between the hours of 7.30am – 6pm weekdays (no access on weekends). With the endorsement of the new development plan, these access controls can be applied. CONCLUSION The school has acknowledged that it has not complied with item 1(a) of Council’s resolution from 5 October 2015, which required an additional 47 car parking spaces be accommodated on site. However, a number of opportunities have been identified to ensure the school can provide an appropriate number of onsite spaces for an interim period. The result will be a shortfall of 41 statutory spaces or 30 spaces based on an empirical parking rate which the school has asked be accepted until the commencement of term 1 2017.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT
Author:
Joel Elbourne - Manager of Urban Planning & Building, City Development
File:
F2014/1825
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report presents and provides commentary on the activities of the Urban Planning and Building Department (consisting of Development Planning, Strategic Planning and Banyule Building Permits and Inspections (BPi)) for the period July – December 2015. For Development Planning, detail is provided in relation to applications received and determined, the backlog of undetermined applications, processing timeframes, planning investigations including infringements and planning appeals. Key highlights for the first half of the 2015-16 financial year include: • • • • • • •
Reduction in the live backlog of planning applications from 488 to 431 over the 6 month period. Less applications were received and more determinations made. 77% of VicSmart applications were determined in less than 10 business days which is an improvement from 50% in the 2014-15 financial year). There was greater complexity in the applications received and more activity shown with a 30% increase in multi-dwelling applications and a 41% increase in subdivision applications compared to the previous 6 months. The number of tree removal and pruning applications lodged reduced by 17% compared to the previous 6 months. The backlog of live planning investigations was reduced from 454 to 106 over the 6 month period. Less appeals were lodged at the Tribunal (reduction from 43 by 4) and a greater number of appeal decisions were upheld in the previous 6 months compared with the previous financial year.
BPi has continued to generate a financial return for Council, by operating a business building surveying arm, as well as subsidising the statutory Building Regulation requirements of the building service. Profit for the half year has exceeded expectations, highlighting the efforts of the building team in continuing to perform at a high level, while maintaining a quality service. Key highlights for the first half of the 2015-16 financial year include: • • • •
An increase in permits processed of 12% based on annualised performance of July – December 2015 compared with the previous financial year. Continued growth in operating profit to date, with current profit showing as almost that of the previous full financial year. Closure of significant level of outstanding building investigations with reduction in live backlog by 11% over the 6 month period. Progressed development of electronic lodgement of applications and record storage plan.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d Strategic Planning has seen the conclusion to the Ivanhoe Structure Plan while delivering the Picture Watsonia Vision. The team has also made substantial progress in relation to Urban Design Guidelines for a number of precincts within the Greensborough Activity Centre which will form the basis of a Planning Scheme Amendment Exhibition while managing the Special Building Overlay up to a Planning Panel which was convened in July 2015. RECOMMENDATION That Council note the Urban Planning and Building Activities Report for the period July – December 2015. OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “maintain and improve Banyule as a great place to live” and “maintain and improve Banyule as a great place to live”. BACKGROUND Regular six (6) monthly reports are provided on the activities of the Urban Planning and Building Department which comprises Development Planning, Strategic Planning and Banyule Building Permits and Inspections (BPi). The following report provides general information about changes in population and housing development in banyule as well as specific updates on activity in the Urban Planning and Building Department for the period July to December 2015. Population and housing change in Banyule Banyule has been shaped by suburban housing growth around shopping streets. Post-war subdivisions established detached dwellings along suburban streets. As the local housing stock has aged, in the last twenty years townhouses and units have replaced some of the older homes. This pattern of gradual medium density development has started to change in recent years. In the last two years the proportion of apartments in Banyule has increased. This has occurred partly due to population growth and changing land economics which are attracting more people to live in (mainly) Heidelberg, as well as Greensborough and Ivanhoe.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d Banyule’s long-term population forecast estimates 148,000 people will be living locally by 2036. This is an increase of 16%. Much of this increase is expected to happen in and around Banyule’s larger activity centres where the suburban apartment market has gained some initial momentum in the last two years.
Forecast population change for Banyule 2001 to 2036 160,000 150,000 140,000 130,000 120,000 110,000 100,000 90,000 80,000
2016
2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031 2036
The State Government’s metropolitan planning strategy, Plan Melbourne, has recently included Banyule and Darebin as preferred places in Melbourne’s northern region for more jobs in the LaTrobe National Employment Cluster. Medical and allied industry investment in Heidelberg has already established 10,000 more jobs in this location over the last 10 years. For the future, Banyule can expect the recent shift towards apartment developments to continue. These are expected for defined locations around the bigger shopping streets – with an ongoing focus on Burgundy Street and Bell Street in the immediate years ahead. The Government’s plan to put the LaTrobe Cluster on the ‘investment attraction’ map, has potential to bring forward more investment and generate more growth than what is currently projected. DEVELOPMENT PLANNING PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AND DETERMINED High numbers of applications and related requests continued to be submitted during the second half of 2015, with the total number of such requests lodged being similar to the 2014 calendar year.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Figure 1 – Comparison with previous years Work carried out reducing the backlog of applications within the system has continued, with a residual of 400 applications and 31 related requests being active as at 31 December 2015. This compares with target figures of 330 and 80 respectively.
Figure 2 – Live planning applications and related requests by month While there were less applications received in the 2015 calendar year than in the previous year, as detailed in Figure 3 below, live applications were reduced despite the numbers of applications received generally exceeding the average for the previous 3 years.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d Significant reductions in backlog were able to be achieved through the second half of the calendar year in particular, and can be attributed in part to the additional staff resources available from the beginning of the financial year.
Figure 3 – Applications and requests by month PROCESSING TIMEFRAMES The second half of 2015 has seen a significant improvement in the proportion of VicSmart applications dealt with within the statutory timeframe (10 business days), with improvements also in the processing times for other applications (and in particular a reduction in the number of applications dealt with in more than 90 days from 214 to 194), although there is further work to be done to reduce the latter. Figure 4 provides information in relation to processing times for 2015, with 59% of applications (77% of VicSmart applications and 52% of standard applications) and 59% of amendments to permits being dealt with within the statutory timeframe in 2015. This is a reduction in the number of applications dealt with within the statutory timeframe from 65% in 2014, with the reduction attributed to the proportion of applications now within the VicSmart system. The total number of applications with a statutory processing time of more than 60 days has remained static at approximately 450.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Figure 4 – Decision times for 2015 In an effort to reduce the number of older applications that have not yet been determined, the Development Planning Team continues to review the status of all live planning applications on a regular basis, and is specifically seeking to finalise those applications which have been with Council the longest. However, this needs to be balanced against the ongoing challenge of improving the proportion of applications determined within the Statutory Timeframe. APPLICATIONS BY TYPE Figure 5 details the planning permit applications received by type including applications for tree removal, multi dwelling applications, subdivision and other permit requirements. As indicated: • • • •
The number of applications for tree removal and pruning appears to have stabilised at approximately 300 per year (or 40% of applications); Applications for multi dwelling development were slightly higher in the second half of the year, and remain above previous years (with the execption of 2014). The number of subdivision applications was also slightly higher in the second half of the year; and The number of amendments to existing permits continues to grow from year to year.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Figure 5 - Planning permit applications received by proposal During 2015 high numbers of applications and related requests were finalised. When subdivision certifications are included, a total of 2169 such applications were determined, compared with approximately 2032 in 2014 and 1849 in 2013.
Figure 6 – Requests received by type annually (including certification)
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Figure 7 – Requests determined by type annually (including certification) Tree Permit Applications As detailed in Figure 5, there was a drop in the number of applications for tree removal received in the last quarter of 2015. Preliminary figures for January 2016, however, would indicate that this is not ongoing. Notwithstanding the lower figures for September – December, applications for tree removal and pruning continue to represent a significant proportion of the total applications received by Council. The number of applications lodged and determined for tree removal are shown in Figure 8 below against the actual and target outstanding workload. An average of 43 applications per month were lodged for the year, with the number of applications live in the system reducing significantly toward the end of the year when compared to the previous two years.
Figure 8: Tree Permit applications received and determined by month
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d PLANNING INVESTIGATIONS An average of 26 breaches per month of Planning Permits and the Planning Scheme were brought to the attention of the Development Planning Unit each month in the 2015 calendar year which is an increase of three per month compared with 2014. These breaches relate to built form (such as development, overlooking and signage), land use and vegetation removal. During the course of the third quarter of 2015 a review of outstanding complaints was undertaken to understand which matters could be considered as active having regard to statutes of limitations. A contractor was utilised to action older matters as appropriate. As a result, there has been a significant reduction in the number of live investigations during the time period, as detailed in Figure 9.
Figure 9 – Planning complaints/investigations initiated and finalised
Figure 10 – Planning complaints/investigations and Infringement Notices initiated and finalised
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d As detailed in Figure 10 above, 311 planning investigations were instigated in 2015, 37 higher than in 2014. There has been a significant increase in the number of investigations finalised during the course of the year, and this has also included finalisation of a greater number of Planning Infringement Notices. The number of outstanding Infringements was raised in the previous Activities Report as a matter which required attention. A review of notices issued has resulted in the withdrawal of a number of older Notices, resulting in a significant drop in the number of outstanding Notices in the final quarter of 2015, as detailed in Figure 11. Concurrently, however, there has been a higher number of Planning Infringement Notices issued in the final quarter of 2015. Process improvements to following up payment and remedial action required on Planning Infringement Notices are currently being considered.
Figure 11 – Planning Infringement Notices Issued and Paid/Withdrawn PLANNING APPEALS APPEALS LODGED The total number of appeals received for each six month interval since 2009 is detailed in Figure 10 below. There have been fewer appeals lodged in the last six months than any but two previous half yearly periods recorded (these being the first half of 2009 and the first half of 2014).
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Figure 12 – Total appeals received by year As detailed in Figure 13, the majority of appeals lodged continue to be lodged by permit applicants. However there were significantly less appeals lodged against Council’s failure to determine applications within the statutory timeframe during the last six months. This is important considering the potential for applicants to request the Tribunal direct Council to reimburse appeal fees.
Figure 13 – Appeals lodged by type
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d DECISIONS RECEIVED As detailed in Figure 14 below, Council has traditionally lost the majority of appeals against the refusal of applications, and this has continued to be the case in the last six months. A greater number of appeal decisions were upheld in the previous 6 months compared with the previous financial year.
Figure 14 – Outcome of refusal appeals A total of 40 Tribunal decisions were received in the second half of 2015, with Council having limited success with respect to appeals by permit applicants overall. As detailed in Figure 15, Council’s decision was set aside with respect to the majority of appeals against refusal, however Council’s decision was upheld or a mediated outcome achieved in relation to half of the appeals lodged against Council’s failure to determine an application within the statutory timeframe (these applications are usually, but not always, subject to advice that Council would have refused the application given more time).
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Figure 15 – Appeal outcomes The figures, however, do not indicate where an appeal results in an improved outcome when compared with an advertised proposal, and in particular improvements to proposals made in substituted plans lodged prior to appeal hearings. OUTCOMES OF DEPARTMENTAL STRUCTURE AND REVIEW As previously reported, a review of the structure of the Development Planning Unit was finalised in 2015. The provision of a new team leader overseeing administration, technical, arboricultural and investigations staff as well as additional administration support has resulted in: • • •
Process improvements. Significant reduction to tree removal/pruning applications backlog and planning investigations backlog. Significant improvements to processing timeframes for VicSmart applications which has contributed to Banyule placing 3rd in Victoria under the State Government’s “Know Your Council” Performance Reporting.
The following measures to address workload concerns are being pursued: • • •
The implementation of electronic lodgement and processing of planning applications. Ongoing review of internal processes. Improvements to processes in relation to planning enforcement including recovery of unpaid infringements
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d BANYULE BPI (BUILDING SERVICES) Banyule Building Permits and Inspections (BPi) has continued to provide building permit services commercially, both locally and statewide, an enterprise that subsidises department costs associated with the statutory functions of the Municipal Building Surveyor. With the separation of statutory and building surveying services within the unit, the unit has continued to fulfil business and statutory functions successfully, with a strong customer service focus. Highlights from July – December 2015 half financial year include: • •
Profit has exceeded expectations Continued growth in operating profit to date, with current profit in line with that of the full previous financial year
•
Closure of significant level of outstanding building investigations with a reduction of 11% over the 6 month period.
•
Reached final stage of development of electronic record storage plan for external private building surveyor Building Permit lodgements.
•
Created digitisation plan in anticipation of move to new temporary offices, to resolve issues with building file storage limitations
Financial performance The Building Permit business arm of the Banyule Building Department has started the financial year with a considerable profit, between July – December 2015, figures reached $352,000 – almost the sum of the entire profit amount from the previous full financial year ($364,263). This half yearly achievement is in line with the steady increase seen in BPi profitability since the financial downturn in 2011. (See Figure 16) This increase is significant and should be noted. Profit for the 2015-16 financial year is projected at $550-600K.
Comparative Building Department Profit $400,000.00 $350,000.00 $300,000.00 $250,000.00 $200,000.00 $150,000.00 $100,000.00 $50,000.00 $0.00
$364,263.00
$352,000.00
$237,000.00
$75,000.00 $18,000.00 2011/12
2012/13
2013/14
2014/15
July - December 2015
Figure 16: BPi Profit by financial year
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d Building Permit Activity A total of 867 permits were issued by Banyule BPi between July – December 2015. Of these 867, there were 223 permits for properties within the Banyule municipality. Figure 17 shows BPI on track to match or possibly exceed the number of permits issued in the previous financial year. A total of 1570 permits a projected for the 2015-16 financial year.
Building Permits issued yearly 1800
1554
1600
1585
1426
1400
1545
1200 1000
867
800 600 400 200 0 2011/12
2012/13
2013/14
2014/15
July - Dec 2015
Figure 17: Building Permits issued by financial year.
Breakdown of Building Permits issued 180 160 140 Permits issued by BPi outside Banyule
120 100 80
114
128 101
105
110
86
60
Permits issued by BPi within Banyule
40 20
33
35
26
Jul-15
Aug-15
Sep-15
0
45 Oct-15
47
37
Nov-15 Dec-15
Figure 18: Building permits issued by BPi within Banyule compared to building permits issued in other Victorian municipalities.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Building Permits issued by BPi 1800 1600 1400 1200 1000 800
1166
1053
1117
Issued by Bpi outside Banyule Issued by Bpi in Banyule
600
644
400 200
373
419
428
2012/13
2013/14
2014/15
223
0
July - Dec 15
Figure 19: Breakdown of building permits issued by half financial year, compared to prior financial year. Building permit applications received by Banyule BPi for works inside and external to the municipality were predominantly for alterations/additions to existing dwellings (572 applications), with 172 new dwelling permits being applied for and 40 demolition permit application submissions.
Building Permits July - Dec 2015 (Breakdown of works description) 31 40 46
Commercial 172
Demolition New Dwellings Extensions/Alterations
572
Unit Developments
Figure 20: Building permit types for July – December 15. Building Inspections Building inspections for building surveying projects remained high throughout the first half of the 2015/16 financial year, an indication of the expected increase in inspections required per permit, due to more complex building projects, additional site visits for advice, and increased site enquiries (ie; complaints from neighbours) contributing to overall inspection figures. Overall, 5351 inspections were conducted throughout July – December 2015, (Figure 20.1) approximately 800 more inspections than those undertaken in a comparable time period in the preceding financial year; July – December 2014 (see Figure 20.2).
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d Not-approved inspection reports will be sent to the builder with direction for rectification and subsequently reinspected for compliance. On average, there will be at least one re-inspection required for all permit projects. Still, approved inspection figures approximately treble not-approved figures each month.
Building Inspections July - December 2015 1200 1000
1001 860
800 600
605
603
400
793 719
257
747
940
727
871
Inspections approved
650 Inspections not approved
188
200
886
254
167
213
221
Inspections undertaken overall
0 Jul-15
Aug-15 Sep-15
Oct-15 Nov-15 Dec-15
Figure 20.1 – Building inspections July – December 2015
Building inspections July - December 2014 900 817
800 700
635
600
570
778
746
745 579
587
595
729
595
738
500
Inspections approved
400
Inspections not approved
300 200
182
175
167
191
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
134
143
Nov-14
Dec-14
Inspections undertaken
100 0
Figure 20.2 Comparative building inspections July – December 2014
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Annual inspections comparison 10000 9000 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0
9498
8924 6300
2011/12
2012/13
7007 5351
2013/14
2014/15
July - December 2015
Figure 21 – Annual inspections comparison OTHER REQUESTS In addition to the processing of building permit applications and investigation of building complaints which will be addressed later in this report, the building department has a statutory obligation to process a range of information requests which are outlined below and detailed in figures 22 and 23. Report & Consent Applications Report & Consent applications involve assessment of proposed deviation from building regulatory requirements, including supporting reasons, consultation with neighbours, and site inspections to assess impacts of the proposal on the surrounding area. From July – December 2015, there were 152 dispensation applications submitted. (See Figure 22). Section 29a Applications Section 29A applications are submitted in conjunction with a request to demolish a property within the municipality, or to alter the façade of a property. The application process identifies any heritage restrictions or overlays which may prevent demolition or alteration on site, and provides direction in the form B as to whether demolition consent can be granted. There were a total of 152 Section 29A applications processed between July – December 2015. (See Figure 23). Building Permit Particulars (Regulation 326 certificates) Building Permit Particulars are requested for details of Building Permits issued on a property in the preceding ten years, details of any outstanding Building Notices and Building Orders issued on a Property, and, occasionally, details of the following property information: whether the property is subject to termite infestation, flooding, bushfire or snowfall.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d A total of 931 Regulation 326 (1) requests for information were processed between July – December 2015, with applications following the usual trend of increasing around October then declining towards the end of year period. (See Figure 23). Requests for Building Permit documentation Building Permit plans and documentation can be requested from Council archives by the owner of the property, with archival Building Permit files being made available to the applicant. There were 151 requests for archival Building Permit documentation processed between July – December 2015. (See Figure 22).
Statutory applications received monthly 350 300 20 31 27
250 200 150 100
192
50
25 21 22
27 26 27
32 24 36
Section 29a applications Dispensation applications
24 28 26
24 18 13
226 153
140
137
83
Copies of documentation applications Reg 326 certs issued
0 Jul-15
Aug-15
Sep-15
Oct-15
Nov-15
Dec-15
Figure 22 – Statutory applications received monthly
Yearly statutory applications 3000 2500 2000 1500
237 232 283
243 230 260
1000 500
1442
275 238 317
1413
1558
2012/13
2013/14
268 275 326
1529
Section 29a 152 148 151
Dispensation Applications
931
Reg 326
Copies of Documentation
0 2011/12
2014/15
July December 2015
Figure 23 – Yearly statutory applications
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d COMPLAINTS INVESTIGATION There were a total of 159 complaints received and logged into the BPi complaints management system between July – December 2015, and 163 complaint investigations closed, with 156 complaints currently outstanding (see Figure 24). Some of these “outstanding” complaints include ongoing issues from previous years that are yet to be resolved or have been referred for prosecution.
Open complaints investigations by month 200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
181 160
179
171
155
169
Complaints received Complaints closed 56 21
16 18 Jul-15
31
Aug-15
Complaints outstanding 33
Sep-15
24 28
Oct-15
25
32
17 21
Nov-15
Dec-15
Figure 24 – Open complaints investigations by month
Complaints received and closed yearly 300 250 200
202
227
246
228
234 184
159 163 Complaints received
150
Complaints outstanding
100 50 0 2012/13
2013/14
2014/15
July - Dec 2015
Figure 25 – Annual complaints received and closed The volume of closed complaints between July – December 2015 is almost equal to the number of complaints closed in the full 2014/15 financial year. The efforts of the building enforcement officer appointed since July 2015 should be acknowledged as partially responsible for this achievement.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d Figure 26 below outlines complaints response timeframes, indicating that approximately 80% of all complaints received monthly are acknowledged and actioned within the requisite timeframes.
Monthly Complaints Response Timeframes 60 50
161
182
176
172
169
33
31 30
26 16
17 16
21
22
29
24
24
28
25 26 25
102 24 21
100 17
21
17 17
60 20 0
Jul-15
Aug-15
Sep-15
Received within the month Acknowledged within the month Complaints Outstanding
Oct-15
Nov-15
Dec-15
Closed within the month Actioned within 14 days
Figure 26 – Monthly complaints response timeframes MAGISTRATES COURT HIGHLIGHTS There were no new matters brought before the Courts between July – December 2015. Some minor cases were referred for prosecution and subsequently resolved. BUSINESS IMPROVEMENTS Between July – December 2015, Banyule BPi put greater emphasis on business procedural developments to facilitate the move from 9 – 13 Flintoff Street to the temporary office in Watermarc. This involved creating digitisation plans for existing building permit documentation stored on and offsite, and allocation of files for offsite storage. The business unit has maintained a focus on customer service, delivering a consistent building permit service. Business developments designed to enhance the customer service offering across the unit include:
•
80 40
0
•
160 120
32
10
•
180 140
38
40
20
200
53
A draft five year business plan, with focus on a steady growth plan for the unit going forward. Ongoing implementation of business unit procedural refinements in accord with advice from the Victorian Building Authority. Continuing professional development certificates issued by the Victorian Building Authority to all registered building inspectors and building surveyors.
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URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d •
Registration with the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors for professional services listing.
STRATEGIC PLANNING During the 2015/16 financial year the Strategic Planning Unit achieved Ministerial Approval for planning scheme amendments that had been under consideration by the State Government for some time. In addition to this, the Strategic Planning Unit started work on projects to improve the function of the Banyule Planning Scheme such as a Strategic Framework for Developer Contribution Schemes, a Heidelberg Parking Overlay and a Municipal Wide Open Space Contribution Fee. Key highlights for the Strategic Planning Unit for the first half of 2015/16 financial year include; • •
• • • • • • •
Achieved Ministerial Approval of Amendment C73 to introduce an Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) policy into the Banyule Planning Scheme. Achieved Ministerial Approval of Amendment C71 to make various planning scheme changes, including MSS (reference to current City Plan, Improved list of Reference Documents, Community Profile as Reference Document and greater consistency for (tree trigger) overlays. Commenced consideration of a Planning Scheme Amendment to introduce a municipal wide Public Open Space Contribution of 5%. Adopted the ‘Greensborough Activity Centre - Urban and Landscape Design Guidelines for Precincts 2, 5 and 6’ which will form the basis of Planning Scheme Amendment C110. Commenced work on the Watsonia Pop-Up Park that was an initiative of ‘Picture Watsonia – A Vision for Watsonia Village’. Participated in a Review by Planning Panels Victoria of Amendment C101 to introduce a Special Building Overlay and adoption by Council. Commenced work on a Strategic Framework for Developer Contribution Schemes in Banyule. Completed a review of council’s Outdoor Advertising Policy. Contributed to State Government projects such as the Framework for the LaTrobe National Employment Cluster (NEC) and the Review of the Middle Yarra Corridor.
The Urban Planning and Building - Activities Report is produced six monthly. The Strategic Planning Unit has not had any planning scheme amendments on public exhibition in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act (the Act) since the last report in September 2015. The Strategic Planning Department has however continued to consult with the community about projects such as the Watsonia PopUp Park, the Review of Advertising Signs at Sporting Clubs and pre-amendment consultation for Amendment C110 – the Greensborough Structure Plan Review. Figure 27 below shows the number of people who have been consulted about projects being done by the Strategic Planning Department. The results for these projects can be explained as follows:
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Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
4.4
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d Watsonia Pop-Up Park The approach taken for the Watsonia Pop-Up Park involved door knocking houses in the surrounding area. This approach was manageable given the target number and provided a higher response rate than the direct mail approach used for the Greensborough Structure Plan Review. Review of Sporting Club Signage The low response rate for the Review of Sporting Club Signage can be attributed to the nature of the proposal which was to expand the advertising potential and revenue for Banyule sporting clubs. The few responses that were received from sporting clubs supported the proposed review. Greensborough Structure Plan Review The approach taken for pre-amendment consultation for the Greensborough Structure Plan Review was a direct mail-out to all landowner in and surrounding Precincts 2, 5 and 6. This approach was taken given the number of properties involved. Further consultation in accordance with the requirements of the Act will be held during this reporting cycle. 300 250
Project Consultation
200 150 100 50 0 Greensborough SP Review
Watsonia Pop Up Park
Number consulted
Review of Sporting Club Signage
Response received
Figure 27 – Consultation on non-statutory projects and the response received Figure 28 below shows the distribution of strategic planning projects across five different categories. The greatest proportion of work done by the Strategic Planning Department is driven by initiatives identified in the City Plan. Other strategic planning work is fairly evenly distributed across the other four categories, with State Government Projects/Reviews needing slightly more involvement.
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4.4
URBAN PLANNING AND BUILDING ACTIVITIES REPORT cont’d
Project Type City Plan Initiatives
Proponent Led
State Government Projects/Reviews
Other Banyule Projects
14% 19% 57% 10%
Figure 28 – Distribution of Strategic Planning Projects across project categories CONCLUSION In the first half of the 2015-16 financial year, the Development Planning team continue to reduce the live backlog of planning applications (from 488 to 431 over the 6 month period) in the context of increasing numbers and complexity of planning applications. Servicing timeframes have improved in relation to VicSmart applications and there has been a significant resetting of planning investigations with this backlog reducing from 454 to 106 investigations. Less planning appeals were lodged and this included a large reduction in the number of appeals against Council’s Failure to Determine a planning application within the statutory timeframe. Banyule BPi has achieved an outstanding result in profit between July – December 2015, (see Figure 14) through business operations in building surveying. Profit surplus for the half year has well exceeded expectations, highlighting the efforts of building staff in continuing to perform at a high level, while maintaining a quality service. Banyule BPi is also positioning itself for a greater reliance on electronic files, improved options for its customers and for relocation to the WaterMarc building. The Strategic Planning Department has continued to focus on those initiatives identified in the City Plan through Council led planning scheme amendments and policy development. The Strategic Planning Unit has also continued to ensure that Council is represented and heard in respect to important State Government planning projects such as the La Trobe National Employment Cluster and the Middle Yarra River corridor. These projects are managed alongside proponent led amendments which continue to be received for various re-zonings.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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4.5
Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
4.5
DRAFT RESIDENTIAL PARKING PERMIT POLICY - CONSULTATION TIMEFRAMES
Author:
Bailey Byrnes - Transport Planning Team Leader, City Development
File:
F2013/617
Previous Items Council on 22 February 2016 (Item 4.2 - Draft Residential Parking Permit Policy) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Consistent with the Council resolution of 22 February 2016, the draft Residential Parking Permit Policy is currently open for public comment. Due to delays with the printing and delivery of the document to Council’s customer service centres, it is proposed to extend the consultation period to 24 March 2016. RECOMMENDATION That Council extend consultation on the draft Residential Parking Permit Policy to 24 March 2016. OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “support sustainable transport”. BACKGROUND The Banyule Residential Parking Permit Policy 2011-2015 was adopted in August 2011. This policy included provisions to assist in managing the availability of onstreet parking spaces in a given street or area through a Residential Parking Permit Scheme (RPPS). The parking permit scheme prioritised parking for residents and their visitors in identified streets, in accordance with the key directions set out in the policy. The current RPPS has been reviewed and the draft Banyule Residential Parking Permit Policy 2016-2020 (RPPP) has been prepared. At its meeting on 22 February 2016, Council considered a report on the draft RPPP, and resolved: “That Council: 1.
Approve the draft Residential Parking Permit Policy for consultation until 18 March 2016;
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Place – Sustainable Amenity and Built Environment
2.
Propose the fees as follows: Permit Type First Residential Permit Second Residential Permit First Visitor Permit Second Visitor Permit
3.
4.5
DRAFT RESIDENTIAL PARKING PERMIT POLICY - CONSULTATION TIMEFRAMES cont’d
Current Fee $25 per annum $40 per annum $40 per annum $60 per annum
Proposed Fee Free $25 per annum $40 per annum $60 per annum
Receive a further report on the feedback received during the consultation.”
The consultation process is currently underway. CONSULTATION Community feedback is currently being sought on the draft document. Council’s website has been updated to include a copy of the draft RPPP and links to the consultation survey, and public notice advising of the consultation period was provided in the Heidelberg Leader on 1 March 2016, and the Diamond Valley Leader on 2 March 2016. Copies of the draft RPPP were made available for public viewing at each of Council’s customer service centres and libraries from 25 February 2016. While it was intended that the document be available at Council’s customer service centres and libraries on Tuesday 23 February this did not eventuate. Accordingly to provide sufficient time for community members to comment on the draft RPPP, it is proposed to extend the consultation period to 24 March 2016. This will provide four weeks from the date the draft RPPP was made available at Council’s customer service centres, and provide additional opportunity for public feedback on the draft. CONCLUSION Consultation on the draft Residential Parking Permit Policy 2016-2020 is currently underway. Due to delays with the document not being available at Council’s customer service centres, it is proposed to extend the consultation period to 24 March 2016.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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6.1
6.1
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
ITEMS FOR NOTING
Author: John Milkins - Environmental Sustainability Co-ordinator, City Development File:
F2016/476
RECOMMENDATION That Council note the following minutes/reports: 1.
Banyule Environment Advisory Committee February 2016 Notes
The following Minutes or Reports are presented for noting: 1
Report/Committee Name: Officer: Brief explanation:
Banyule Environment Advisory Committee February 2016 Notes John Milkins/ Daniel Kollmorgen BEAC addressed the following items at its February meeting. Introduction Cr Mark Di Pasquale - BEAC Councillor Representative Item 14.34 Divestment Item 15.26 Waste Minimization in Banyule Item 16.01 Beyond Paris (Climate summit) Item 16.02 draft State of Environment Report Item16.03 Appreciation for departing staff and Councillors Item 16.04 Waste & litter avoidance at Banyule Festivals Full BEAC Notes are provided in the attachment.
ATTACHMENTS No.
Title
1
BEAC February 2016 Notes
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6.2
COUNCILLOR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP
Author: Services
Gina Burden - Manager Governance & Communication, Corporate
File:
F2015/1032
6.2
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY It is important for Councillors to have access to conferences, forums and other training opportunities to develop their skills and ability to represent and engage with their constituents. There is also an expectation that Councillors, as part of their strategic role, make time to plan for the ongoing viability and long term direction of the municipality. As part of the training and development program for Councillors at Banyule, a facilitated weekend workshop was held offsite between 20 – 21 February 2016, involving the Councillors and key Senior Officers. The focus of this year’s Strategic Planning Workshop was to review review Council’s achievements over the past term and to discuss the challenges, areas for improvement and key deliverables for the future. This report has been prepared to provide an overview and record of the Strategic Planning Session. RECOMMENDATION That: 1.
Council note the report on the Councillor Strategic Planning Workshop held 20 – 21 February 2016; and
2.
Officers report back to Council on the development and implementation of any strategies or initiatives, resulting from the Strategic Planning Workshop, which will either require Council endorsement or a budget allocation.
OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “provide responsible financial management and business planning processes”.
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6.2
COUNCILLOR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP cont’d BACKGROUND The Councillor Strategic Planning Workshop held on the weekend of 20 - 21 February 2016, was the second offsite development/planning workshop of its type to be held by the incumbent Banyule Council and was attended by: Councillors: Craig Langdon (Mayor); Jenny Mulholland Tom Melican; Mark Di Pasquale; Rick Garotti; Wayne Phillips Apology – Steven Briffa (Interstate due to family commitments) Officers: Simon McMillan (CEO); Allison Beckwith (Director Community Programs); Geoff Glynn (Director Assets and City Services); Scott Walker (Director City Development); Marc Giglio (Director Corporate Services); Gina Burden (Manager Governance & Communication); Peter Utri (Manager Organisational Systems); James Kelly (Manager Assets and Infrastructure). Facilitator: Lydia Wilson (Consultant) HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER In developing this report to Council, the subject matter has been considered to determine if it raises any human rights issues. In particular, whether the scope of any human right established by the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities is in any way limited, restricted or interfered with by the recommendations contained in this report. It is considered that the subject matter does not raise any human rights issues. DISCUSSION A number of key themes and issues were discussed and workshopped over the course of the two day Strategic Planning Workshop. Prior to the workshop, the facilitator undertook preparation by consulting with Councillors to develop the themes and topics to be covered. During the workshop, the role of the facilitator was to assist with setting the scene, to keep things moving, and to focus discussions and synthesise feedback and input. Staff present contributed to the workshop by preparing the relevant background information and data for the Councillors to work through, making presentations on key issues and to provide clarification, information, and support as required. The themes and issues explored during the course of the weekend, included: • • • • • • • • •
Capital works and initiatives Key achievements and ongoing / future challenges Portfolio updates – city development, community programs, assets and city services, corporate services. Planning for the future Key issues Key advocacy priorities Key priorities and deliverables Community and communication Governance and recent local government legislative changes
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6.2
COUNCILLOR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP cont’d Capital Works and Ongoing Initiatives. A detailed discussion was held on the progress and delivery of projects outlined in the current Capital Works program. A presentation on capital projects and service provision initiatives was provided including a workshop on what Council considered to be achievements for the community and ongoing challenges. A discussion was held on whether the City Plan continues to reflect Council’s Vision. There was general consensus about the key achievements of the Council during the past term of the current Council and on the areas of further opportunity, these included: Key Achievements • • • • • • • •
Key achievements including WaterMarc, Ivanhoe Aquatic Centre and One Flintoff; overall the ability council has had to deliver on what it has set out to achieve. Planning: A good result for the community in a tough environment - this also creates opportunities as listed below. Maintenance and development of our highly valued natural environment and overall the focus on environmental initiatives that have been achieved. Greater financial sustainability – the focus on prudent investments that provide community benefit as well as financial return. Environmentally sustainable initiatives water harvesting, solar panels, efficient street lighting Community programs for the community particularly the work done in areas such as Positive Ageing, GLBTI, Multicultural, inclusion and disability committee. Relationships, amongst Councillors and the executive and the positive way we are able to achieve things together. Community satisfaction results continuing to show high levels of satisfaction within the community
Opportunities • • • • • • •
Increased advocacy to other levels of government Enforcement in areas of planning, building, local laws and environment Matching community expectations with consultations (particularly around structure plans) and the quality of consultations Procurement – considering shared procurement Financial sustainability and the opportunities for ongoing efficiencies Planning control and issues associated with density and diversity. Transport problems facing our municipality
Portfolio Updates: Each Portfolio Councillor and relevant Director presented a detailed overview of the four portfolios including key issues, vision, achievements, opportunities and challenges looking forward.
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6.2
COUNCILLOR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP cont’d The four portfolios include: •
City Development
•
Community Programs
•
Assets and City Services
•
Corporate Services
City Development identified the following key themes and ongoing community issues as follows: •
• • •
•
A substantial increase in planning applications, maintaining neighbourhood character, multi storey development and the general complexity of planning applications. Community consultation processes and community expectations in the planning area is in constant demand. Issues identified related to the need to ensure sufficient resourcing in planning enforcement, development impacts on residential amenity, maintaining heritage and treed character car parking demand. Discussion on the La Trobe Employment Cluster and ongoing activity centre planning highlighted the need for associated overlays for development contributions and car parking. Maintaining consistent high levels of community / customer service was critical given the complexities facing the community in the planning and building areas. In regard to transport, engineering and municipal laws the key themes related to managing a substantial increase in community enquiries relating to roads, traffic and drainage improvements, car parking in local streets, managing construction sites, barking dog complaints and managing animal collection. In regard to the environment, issues discussed related to Council’s continued objective to reduce utility costs, be a leader in environmental stewardship and a key community advocate to State and Federal Governments.
Community Programs identified the following key themes and ongoing community issues as follows: • • • • • •
Seeking to deliver key quality services in a sustainable way Prioritising renewal of aging infrastructure particularly in the area of sports and leisure. Increased demands and capacity of sports fields. The roll out of the NDIS and associated implications on the local government sector. Banyule will be in the first round of the NDIS roll out mid-2016. Discussion on the Aged Care reforms and any implications on the local government sector. Reviewing the procurement processes to achieve ongoing value for money.
Assets and City Services identified the following key themes and ongoing community issues as follows: • •
Maintaining high quality service delivery in the areas of waste management, cleansing, parks and capital works delivery. Maintaining a large capital work program in timeframes that meet community demand.
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6.2
COUNCILLOR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP cont’d • • •
Managing aging infrastructure through a detailed asset management planning process to delivered through a 4 year budget. Develop long term capital plans. Shared procurement where possible.
Corporate Services identified the following key themes and ongoing community issues as follows: • • • • • • •
Managing our key resource around human capital – identifying the mix of talent across the organisation, emerging leaders, aging staff profile. Identify best practice and processes that help streamline delivery of services including identifying eService opportunities. Use of and investment in technology to help deliver efficient and best practice models of service. Enhancement and streamlining of performance and management reporting. Eliminate manual processes through use of innovative technology solutions. Continue to review and develop Council’s long term financial plan, IT and Communications Strategy. Review procurement processes and ensure ongoing value for money.
Current Context and Local Government Sector Implications: Councillors focused discussion on: • • •
Strategic Financial Planning in the context of Rate Capping The NDIS and implications on local government and broader community services sector. Implications of the Local Government Amendment Act, Local Government Reporting requirements.
Financial Overview: Information and discussions related to: • • • •
Long term financial strategy Rating Strategy (to be reviewed noting Rate Capping) Debt strategy Capital Expenditure Program
Opportunities for Improvement: This included detailed discussion and ideas sharing related to ways in which Council can continue to improve its operational efficiency, possibilities for cost savings, sharing of resources, potential revenue generation, and capacity building. Governance The Governance session covered the following areas: • • • • •
Key timelines pre and post-election Development of the Election Period Policy Getting ready for the 2016 Elections Reviewing the Councillor Code of Conduct Induction and training of Councillors
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•
6.2
COUNCILLOR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP cont’d Improving Governance – The recent LGA Amendments and what this means for Councillors
Deliverables and future actions: A summary of the suggestions and actions which resulted from the two day planning workshop is listed below. A number of these will require further development and reporting back to Council. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Maintain level of community consultation and Maintain and drive City Plan objectives and plan for extensive review with incoming Council in November / December. Promote delivery of capital projects, services and initiatives through all forms of communication and media channels. Monitor and improve social media as a growing avenue for community access to Council information. Seek MAV to articulate its vision and key performance indicators for the sector. Maintain the strong working relationship amongst Councillors. Continue working on developing strong professional relationship with the Executive and establish new working with staff protocols as required by legislation Review and adopt a new Code of Conduct. Prepare and Adopt an Election Period Policy. Develop a training program for incoming Councillors including what training is available through the MAV. Continue to update Council’s advocacy program and Councillors to ensure items of community interest are forward for consideration. Consistently review council services for best practice and opportunities for improvement. Continue and improve on Council reporting as it relates finance, governance and services. Continue to work with the sector on shared service initiatives. Acknowledge the good work that staff across the organisation provide through service delivery.
CONCLUSION The recent two day Councillor Strategic Planning Workshop was considered a successful and productive event by both the Councillors and Officers present as it allowed an opportunity for these two groups to focus on the important strategic issues that will face this Council over its remaining term and into the future. A number of actions and strategies were discussed and formulated as part of the workshop, many of which will now require further development and reporting back to Council.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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6.3
MAV - PROVISION OF A RECRUITMENT SERVICES CONTRACT
Author:
Angela Johnson - Manager Human Resources, Corporate Services
File:
.
6.3
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In order to ensure effective and continuous service delivery across Council, operational and administrative areas engage temporary agency labour when requirements dictate. Temporary labour usage is driven primarily to: • • • • • •
Meet legislative requirements for carer/child ratios in Early Childhood services when staff are absent due to illness or annual leave; Operate waste collection trucks when drivers are absent to due to illness or annual leave. Backfill staff who are subject to modified duties or absent as a result of WorkCover; Maintain operations in vacancies during the time between resignation and recruitment of a new starter. Satisfy peak demands as a result of seasonal work, for example, Parks and Gardens and Cleansing have additional demands in Spring and Autumn. Replace vacancies temporarily in areas that are undergoing change processes, such as Local Laws.
Temporary labour is accessed through 15 different agencies. Each operational area manages its own budget, suppliers and requirements which ensures quick and appropriate turnarounds. Good relationships exist between client and suppliers. The disadvantage with such a decentralised approach is that real time reporting on agency staff numbers and length of assignment is currently unavailable or time consuming to construct. MAV Procurement have recently tendered for the provision of a Neutral Vendor Managed Service for temporary labour supply in accordance with S186 of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act). The successful tenderer was Comensura Pty Ltd ABN 30 120 725 902 (Comensura). Comensura operate like a broker and provide cost efficiencies through competitive rates, consolidated invoicing, on demand reporting on activity and expenditure as well as the efficiencies that come from improved accountability and oversight. RECOMMENDATION That: 1.
Council approve Banyule City Council entering into a Client Services Agreement with Comensura Pty Ltd (ABN 30 120 725 902) under the Municipal Association of Victoria contract RS8017-2015NV for the provision of a Recruitment Neutral Vendor Managed Service suppling agency labour for temporary or short term requirements.
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MAV - PROVISION OF A RECRUITMENT SERVICES CONTRACT cont’d 2.
The Service Agreement be effective from the date of signing until 9 November 2018, and will be in accordance with the MAV contract of an initial 3 year period with two extension options of 2 plus 2 years, at Council’s discretion, noting the MAV contract having taken effect on 9 November 2015.
3.
The Common Seal of Banyule City Council be affixed to the Client Services Agreement between Council and Comensura Pty Ltd (ABN 30 120 725 902.
OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Act requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “plan and manage the systems and assets that support Council’s service delivery”. BACKGROUND In October 2015, MAV contacted councils to advise that they had awarded Comensura sole supply contract for the provision of a Recruitment Neutral Vendor Managed Service and that an information session would be available to interested councils. The information session provided a detailed overview of the model and highlighted the following benefits: • • • •
Reduced cost of temporary labour hire Ability to streamline processes across Council Enhanced safeguarding procedures Consolidated workforce and expenditure data.
Officers commenced an expression of interest discovery process with Comensura. HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER Victoria's Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (the Charter) outlines the basic human rights of all people in Victoria. The Charter requires that governments, local councils and other public authorities comply with Charter and to consider relevant Charter rights when they make decisions. In developing this report to Council, the subject matter has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities.
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6.3
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
6.3
MAV - PROVISION OF A RECRUITMENT SERVICES CONTRACT cont’d CURRENT SITUATION The recruitment of temporary agency staff within Council is currently decentralised. Each Service Unit determines their own requirements and engages temporary labour directly with individual agencies. Agencies used are drawn from the Procurement Australia panel, which expired on 31 December 2015. The ability to effectively monitor the use of temporary staff and the associated costs and performance is limited. The lack of control and accountability of negotiated rates and the lack of supplier performance management exposes Council to increased financial and reputational risk. The lack of reporting results in inefficient use of temporary staff; and presents risks in relation to the quality of candidates and management of longer term placements. PROPOSAL Under this model Comensura enters into arrangements with a wide range of agencies at preferential rates. Financial savings are achieved by reducing supplier mark ups which is possible as a result of the competitiveness that comes with economies of scale. Comensura is a dedicated Vendor Managed Services Provider, not a recruitment agency, and therefore has no vested interest in which of its on-boarded agencies supplies the successful candidate. Agencies are all engaged at a local branch level allowing for local, niche or specialist agencies to compete on a level footing with larger agencies. Comensura currently has in excess of 100 clients and relationships with 3,500 agencies globally – over 150 of which operate in Victoria. The company currently manages over 72,000 placements per day. A number of Victorian councils have successfully engaged Comensura to manage their engagement of recruitment agencies including: • • • • • • • •
City of Melbourne Wyndham City Council Kingston City Council City of Moreland Council City of Whittlesea Council City of Yarra Council City of Moonee Valley Council Melton Shire Council
All of the councils above report ongoing savings of 6-15% per annum in addition to process efficiencies, improved visibility and control. CAPABILITY AND BENEFITS Comensura is accessible via a web based management system known as c.net which would be directly accessible to individual service units to place orders and produce reports. In addition to the cost savings anticipated, Comensura will provide the following benefits:
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MAV - PROVISION OF A RECRUITMENT SERVICES CONTRACT cont’d • • • • • • • • •
100% visibility and control of expenditure to improve oversight, monitor usage and seek efficiencies. Allow improved demand management and opportunities for synergies in deployment across Departments. Increase access to a wider range of recruitment agencies Reduce the number of cold calls from agencies to staff, Reduce the number of individual invoices, payments and vendors processed through accounts payable as weekly invoices will be consolidated and coded automatically. Improve capacity to engage with niche or specialist agencies including agencies that promote employment opportunities for candidates with varying abilities and diverse cultural backgrounds. Enable more robust pre-employment checks to ensure consistent quality of candidates with confidence that accreditations and licences are valid. Maintain operational areas autonomy in relation to service delivery needs in community and quick responses to staff shortages. Enables consistent on boarding processes for candidates in relation to employment expectations, values and code of conduct.
Comensura also offers training online, in person and through their helpdesk which is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. REFERENCES Reference checking was conducted on Comensura by MAV Procurement and also the Eastern Metropolitan Region Procurement Network. Responses indicated that the system is well supported and all referees were happy with the product and have found that anticipated efficiencies have been realised. FINANCIAL AND CONTRACTUAL In the previous financial year 31 individual Service Units within BCC independently dealt with 15 different agencies to meet operational labour requirements, with annual expenditure over $2.0m. The discovery process with Comensura was commenced in January 2015 and involved verification of Council’s annual expenditure and supplier list. As a result of the discovery process Comensura estimate a savings of 7.4% ($150,000) per annum for BCC. The engagement of Comensura to undertake a workforce supply service will be via a Client Services Agreement between Council and Comensura under the MAV Contract RS8017-2015NV. MAV will receive 1% of Council’s expenditure with Comensura. The contract term will be for an initial 3 period with two extension options of 2 plus 2 years, at council’s discretion. If both options are exercised the contract term would be 7 years. The cost saving of 7.4% stipulated above is inclusive of the 1% to MAV. CONCLUSION The use of Comensura, via the MAV contract has the ability to provide financial savings of approximately $150,000 per annum and satisfy two important business imperatives:
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6.3
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
6.3
MAV - PROVISION OF A RECRUITMENT SERVICES CONTRACT cont’d • •
Allows operational areas to continue to quickly and independently source temporary labour directly from current suppliers so continuity of service to the community can be maintained, and Provides the organisation with improved visibility and reporting of temporary labour spend to drive accountability and efficiency.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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6.4
ELECTION PERIOD POLICY
Author:
Vivien Ferlaino - Governance Co-ordinator, Corporate Services
File:
F2016/53
6.4
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY All levels of Government in Australia accept that during the period leading up to an election that the Government assumes a ‘caretaker role’. During the caretaker period, the business of government continues and ordinary matters of administration still need to be addressed. However, successive governments have followed a series of practices, known as the ‘caretaker conventions’, which aim to ensure that their actions do not bind an incoming government and limit its freedom of action. The recent amendments to the Local Government Act 1989 (Act), section 93B now requires all councils to adopt and maintain an ‘Election Period’ policy. The Election Period policy requires that councils publicly explain to their communities how they will conduct their business immediately prior to an election. This is to ensure council elections are not compromised by inappropriate electioneering by existing councillors and to safeguard the authority of the incoming council. The policy must cover the three matters outlined below: 1. 2. 3.
Preventing inappropriate decisions and misuse of resources Limiting public consultation and council events Equitable access to council information
For the 2016 general elections, the Election Period policy must be adopted by the 31 March 2016. The changes are in addition to the current requirements that prohibit councils from making ‘major policy decisions’ during the election period. The Policy must be published on the Council’s website. RECOMMENDATION That Council adopt the Banyule Election Period Policy.
OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter.
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ELECTION PERIOD POLICY cont’d CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “enable good governance and accountability with minimal risk”. BACKGROUND The Local Government (Improved Governance) Amendment Act 2015 has made many amendments to the Act. The requirement for councils to adopt an Election Period policy is one of the first provisions to have been proclaimed and each council must adopt such policy by the end of March 2016. For subsequent general elections, it must be reviewed not later than twelve months from the commencement of the election period for the next election. Election Period The election period begins 32 days prior to a general election – this is the period in which the policy applies. The Federal and State governments also have similar provisions prior to an election. Existing Provisions Existing provisions under Section 93A prohibit councils from making ‘major policy decisions’ during the election period – including decisions to award contracts beyond the threshold that requires a competitive tender process, decisions on certain entrepreneurial activities and decisions about the CEO’s employment and remuneration. The existing provisions also provide for restriction on publications and the requirement for the CEO to certify any publications published during the election period do not contain any electoral material. New Provisions The election policy must be transparent and accessible. This means it must be made public on the council’s website and available in hardcopy for public inspection. All councils must ensure that copies are given to each Councillor. These requirements are expected to achieve greater consistency and rigour in council procedures and reduce ambiguity and confusion surrounding caretaker arrangements in the 32 days leading up to the conduct of general elections. The Draft Policy incorporates the new requirements including advice from Local Government Victoria who provided guidance on the requirements to be included in an election period policy. The Policy must cover: 1. 2. 3.
Preventing inappropriate decisions and misuse of resources Limiting public consultation and council events Equitable access to council information
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ELECTION PERIOD POLICY cont’d HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER Victoria's Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (the Charter) outlines the basic human rights of all people in Victoria. The Charter requires that governments, local councils and other public authorities comply with Charter and to consider relevant Charter rights when they make decisions. In developing this report to Council, the subject matter has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities. A Human rights assessment is attached. (Attachment 2). •
Your right to recognition and equality before the law (section 8)
Everyone is entitled to equal and effective protection against discrimination, and to enjoy their human rights without discrimination, this policy enhances this right. The Policy as it provides for equality of all candidates to access information along sitting Councillor candidates. •
Your right to privacy and reputation (section 13)
Everyone has the right to keep their lives private. Your family, home or personal information cannot be interfered with, unless the law allows it. This right is impacted as all candidates requests for information will be published on Councils website, however candidates’ names will be publically available once they nominate on the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) website and available in the public domain. The Limitation is considered reasonable. •
Your right to taking part in public life (section 18)
Every person has the right to take part in public life, such as the right to vote or run for public office. The Policy enhances this right by providing equal opportunity to all candidates. LEGAL CONSIDERATION The Local Government Act 1989 (Act) section 93B requires all councils to adopt and maintain an ‘election period’ policy. Sections 55D and 93A place certain limits on decisions being made and publications. Section 76D of the Act, imposes serious penalties on a Councillor who misuses his or her position for private benefit, identified improper use of public resources as a misuse of position. POLICY IMPLICATIONS Draft Election Period Policy A draft Election Period Policy is attached and incorporates current legislative requirements and is largely based on Council’s previous Election Caretaker Guidelines.
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ELECTION PERIOD POLICY cont’d For the 2012 General Election the Local Government Investigations Inspectorate audited every council’s caretaker policies. The findings were published with best practice policies made available on the Inspectorate’s website. Banyule’s Election Caretaker Guidelines were reviewed in line with the best practice examples and minor amendments were made at the time. The Inspectorate’s findings have been addressed in the Improved Governance Amendments to the Act. In summary the policy covers: 1.
Preventing inappropriate decisions and misuse of resources
Council’s current practice is to avoid Council Meetings during the election period, the draft policy provides that no Council meetings will be held during this period, and where a meeting is required in urgent circumstances, a Special meeting can be called. The policy also covers the mandatory provisions of councils not making major or significant decisions. Criteria is provided should a meeting be required. Use of resources Council resources, including offices, vehicles, staff, hospitality, services, property, equipment and stationery must be used exclusively for normal Council business during the election period and must not be used in connection with any election campaign or activity. Misuse of Position Council resources are not to be used for campaigning by sitting councillors to increase advantage over other candidates or to influence voters. Councillors cannot use their current position to gain access to information or resources that would otherwise not be available. Councillors and candidates will be given equal access to support and information Section 76D of the Act, imposes serious penalties on a Councillor who misuses his or her position for private benefit, identified improper use of public resources as a misuse of position. The penalty for Misuse of Position is 600 penalty units or imprisonment, or both. 2.
Limiting public consultation and council events
The draft policy requires that Council not conduct any public consultation or Council events, where these are required criteria is provided and include that Councillors must not give speeches at council events and invitations will be issued by the Banyule City Council. 3.
Equitable access to council information
Councillors will be able to obtain reasonable information that is needed to perform their roles as Councillors but only in regards to issues that have previously been brought before the Council
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ELECTION PERIOD POLICY cont’d During the election period all candidates for the Council election will be treated equally. All election related enquiries from candidates, whether Councillors or not, will be directed to the Returning Officer, or where the matter is outside the responsibilities of the Returning Officer, to the Chief Executive Officer or a designated member of Council staff. An Information Request Register will be maintained by Governance commencing on the opening of nominations. This Register will be a public document (available on the Council website) that records all requests for information of a non-election nature by all candidates, and the responses given to those requests. 4.
Council Publications and Communications
Section 55D of the Act imposes limitations on Council publications during the election period. This is to ensure the Council does not publish material with public funds that may influence, or be seen to influence, people’s voting decisions. Relevant Council publications must be certified by the CEO before they may be printed, published or distributed during the election period, whether by the Council or by anyone acting for the Council. This may require certification before the election period for some material to be issued in the election period. The best practice guidelines indicate that councils should cease certain publications where possible. For Banyule this will include the Banner and Councillor Ward newsletters, Mayoral Column and Mayoral Facebook. Social media posts will need to be moderated. Councillor contact information will remain available on the Councillor profile pages but will be limited to names, contact details, date elected and membership of committees. There will be no photographs, profiles or policy statements. Any reference to the election on the website will be restricted to process only. Media releases will not mention or quote any Councillor(s) during the election period. The CEO will be the spokesperson for the Council during this period. TIMELINES The Election Period Policy must be adopted by 31 March 2016. The election period commences 32 days prior to Election Day. For the 2016 Council Elections, the election period will be 20 September to 22 October 2016. CONCLUSION A draft Election Period Policy has been drafted in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1989, recent amendments to the Act and guidance from Local Government Victoria. The Policy must include how Council will conduct its business prior to the election and must be adopted by Council by the 31 March 2016 and published on Councils website and available at Council’s service centre for viewing.
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ELECTION PERIOD POLICY cont’d ATTACHMENTS No.
Title
1
Election Period Policy - Draft
253
2
Election Period Policy - Human Rights Assessment
268
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14-18 LIVINGSTONE STREET, IVANHOE HEAR SUBMISSIONS ON PROPOSED SALE OF LAND
Author:
Jeanette Kringle - Property Co-ordinator, City Development
Ward:
Griffin
File:
F2014/4167
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Under section 189 of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) statutory procedures were commenced to give public notice of Council’s intention to sell the Council owned land and improvements, being a two level car park, at 14-18 Livingstone Street, Ivanhoe, to Seacrest Pty Ltd. Public notice was given in the “Heidelberg Leader’ on 19 January 2016, with submissions on the proposal invited in accordance with section 223 of the Act. The submission period closed on 16 February 2016. Ten submissions were received, including one late submission. Five submitters requested to be heard in support of their submission and one submitter has indicated that she will be represented by another person. The purpose of this report is for Council to consider the written submissions received and to hear from the submitters who have requested to be heard in support of their submission. The submitters have been advised that Council will hear oral submissions at its Ordinary Meeting of 7 March 2016 and make a decision on whether or not to sell the land at a future meeting. RECOMMENDATION That: 1.
Council receive and note that ten submissions, including one late submission, were received in response to the public notice given, pursuant to sections 189 and 223 of the Local Government Act 1989, of Council’s intention to sell the land and improvements, being a two level car park, on the Council owned land at 14-18 Livingstone Street, Ivanhoe (land).
2.
Council consider the submissions received and hear from the five submitters who have requested to be heard in support of their submission, noting that one submitter will be represented by another person.
3.
At its Ordinary Meeting on 4 April 2016, Council determine the proposal to sell the land to Seacrest Pty Ltd, noting that ten submissions including one late submission, on the proposal were received and considered, and the submitters heard by Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 7 March 2016.
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14-18 LIVINGSTONE STREET, IVANHOE - HEAR SUBMISSIONS ON PROPOSED SALE OF LAND cont’d OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “develop and deliver best value services and facilities”. HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER Victoria's Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (the Charter) outlines the basic human rights of all people in Victoria. The Charter requires that governments, local councils and other public authorities comply with the Charter and to consider relevant Charter rights when they make decisions. In developing this report to Council, the subject matter has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Charter, in particular, section 20 which provides that “A person must not be deprived of his or her property other than in accordance with law”. It is considered that the subject matter does not raise any human rights issues because the power to sell land is conferred on Council pursuant to section 189 of the Act. Any person who considers that they have been deprived of their rights may make a submission in accordance with section 223 of the Act with respect of a proposal to sell land. BACKGROUND Council is the owner of a constructed two level car park at 14-18 Livingstone Street, Ivanhoe (the land) identified in the locality plan in Figure 1. The car park was constructed in the 1980’s by the Bond Corporation (the developer) of the adjoining Ivanhoe Plaza Shopping Centre (Plaza) at its cost. The land was then leased by the former Heidelberg Council to the developer for a nominal fee, conditional on the upper floor of the car park being available for public use. There was also an agreement in place with the developer which provided that, after the expiry of the lease, Council would ensure that it would maintain the car park for use as a car park for as long as the Plaza remains as a retail shopping centre. The initial 30-year lease was assigned to various owners over the years including ultimately to Seacrest Pty Ltd (Seacrest), the current owner of the Plaza. The lease expired on 24 January 2013 and there have subsequently been protracted negotiations with Seacrest’s representatives relating to the proposed commercial terms of a new lease. During this time Council ratified a number of short extensions of the lease until 23 January 2015.
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14-18 LIVINGSTONE STREET, IVANHOE - HEAR SUBMISSIONS ON PROPOSED SALE OF LAND cont’d Seacrest is currently over holding under an expired lease. This means that Seacrest has the same responsibility to observe and perform all its obligations under the lease as if it had not expired, including payment of rent (of $1.00 per annum) and payment of outgoings, including Council rates and charges, Yarra Valley Water rates and charges, consumables, including water and electricity usage and service charges. Seacrest is also responsible for maintaining the improvements on the land.
Figure 1: Locality plan Under the terms of the original development agreement, regardless of a lease being in place or not, Seacrest have use of the car park for as long as the complex continues to operate. Protracted negotiations to enter into a new lease have been underway between Council and Seacrest. Whilst the lease discussions have not been successful, with a suitable arrangement not close to being reached, an alternative arrangement has been negotiated which involves the sale of the land subject to Council undertaking it’s statutory processes to sell the land. The proposed sale of the land protects Council’s potential ongoing costs in respect of outgoings which currently amount to approximately $75,000 annually in addition to any litigation costs associated with the lease of the land if a new lease was unable to be secured. Importantly, the proposed sale makes full provision for the ongoing preservation of 117 public parking spaces (on the site) in perpetuity regardless whether the site continues to remain in its current state or if the site is ever redeveloped. Under the proposed sale arrangement, just as now, any member of the public will be able to continue to park within the car park making use of the broader Ivanhoe shopping precinct. Furthermore, Council will also continue to monitor the car park to ensure compliance with parking restrictions.
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14-18 LIVINGSTONE STREET, IVANHOE - HEAR SUBMISSIONS ON PROPOSED SALE OF LAND cont’d POLICY CONSIDERATIONS SALE OF LAND The Guidelines for the Sale and Exchange of Council land, adopted by Council in April 2009, provide that the sale of Council-owned land should be conducted through a public process, unless circumstances justify an alternative method of sale. The Guidelines acknowledge that in some circumstances it may be more advantageous for the sale of the property to be negotiated with one party. The Act does not restrict Council from selling or exchanging Council-owned land by private treaty. Generally it will be: • • • •
the nature of the Council-owned land that is proposed to be sold or exchanged; and or how the proposed sale of exchange of council-owned land is initiated, e.g. often it is an external person who has initiated discussions with Council with regard to the sale or exchange of the Council-owned land; when the price offered is substantially more than the valuation; or evident that there is likely to be only one purchaser for the Council-owned land;
that will determine whether the sale or exchange of Council-owned land by private treaty is appropriate. LEGAL CONSIDERATION STATUTORY PROCEDURES Section 189 of the Act confers on Council the power to sell or exchange land, subject to complying with section 223 of the Act, which provides that Council must give public notice and invite submissions from the public before exercising such power. Public notice of the proposal was given in the “Heidelberg Leader’ on 19 January 2016, with submissions on the proposal invited in accordance with section 223 of the Act. The submission period closed on 16 February 2016. SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED Ten submissions were received, including one which was received after the submission period of 28 days had expired. Copies of written submissions received have been provided to Councillors under separate cover. Issues raised in each of the submissions have been paraphrased and a response is outlined in below. ISSUES The submitters, all being Banyule residents, have raised concerns about the loss of free community parking spaces, unease about the height of future development on the land and whether the land will be developed in accordance with the Ivanhoe Structure Plan.
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14-18 LIVINGSTONE STREET, IVANHOE - HEAR SUBMISSIONS ON PROPOSED SALE OF LAND cont’d Some submitters questioned the timing of the giving of public notice and the form of such notice, suggesting that signage should have been placed at the Ivanhoe Plaza Shopping Centre and more prominently in the foyer of the Ivanhoe Service Centre rather than in the reception area. One submitter has also suggested that, instead of offering to sell the land to Seacrest, Council re-open lease negotiations. RESPONSE The planning permit to use and operate the Ivanhoe Plaza Shopping Centre requires 372 car parking spaces be provided to the satisfaction of Council. Irrespective of whether the land is developed in the future, the owner/operator of the Plaza must comply with the car parking requirements of the planning permit, that is by providing 372 car parking spaces to Council’s satisfaction. These 372 car parking spaces are currently provided by way of 71 car parking spaces on land owned by the Plaza owner and 301 car parking spaces on the land, under a lease with Council. Seacrest is currently over holding under an expired lease. This means that Seacrest has the same responsibility to observe and perform all its obligations under the lease as if it had not expired, including payment of rent (of $1.00 per annum) and payment of outgoings, including Council rates and charges, Yarra Valley Water rates and charges, consumables, including water and electricity usage and service charges. Seacrest is also responsible for maintaining the improvements on the land. Under the terms of the original development agreement, regardless of a lease being in place or not, Seacrest has use of the car park for as long as the complex continues to operate. For the purposes of giving public notice for this proposal, Council determined to give public notice in the “Heidelberg Leader” in accordance with its Official Newspaper Policy. The public notice was also published on Council’s website, together with a downloadable fact sheet (refer attachment 1). Furthermore, a copy of the public notice, a plan indicating the location of land and a copy of the fact sheet were placed on the “Public Notice” display boards in the reception areas at each of Council’s Service Centres. In this instance, more opportunities, than were simply required under the Act, were provided for interested parties to find out about the proposal. REQUEST TO BE HEARD Five submitters have requested to be heard in support of their submission. One submitter has indicated that she will be represented by another person. The submitters have been advised of the time, date and place of the meeting at which Council will hear submissions.
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14-18 LIVINGSTONE STREET, IVANHOE - HEAR SUBMISSIONS ON PROPOSED SALE OF LAND cont’d CURRENT SITUATION Legal advice makes it clear that litigation will not resolve the stalemate in relation to lease negotiations, particularly if Council wishes the land to be developed in accordance with the Ivanhoe Structure Plan in the future. This is likely to only be achieved if the and is sold to Seacrest. Therefore practically speaking, due to the complicated and unique encumbrances in Seacrest’s favour, there is only one buyer for the land. The giving of public notice does not compel Council to sell the land. Council is merely complying with its statutory obligations under the Act. Before making any decision Council must give public notice, invite submissions, hear and consider any written and oral submissions received from submitters who have requested to be heard in support of their submission. CONCLUSION Having considered the written submissions received, and heard from the submitters, Council must now fix the date, time and venue at which it will make its determination, on whether or not to sell the land. ATTACHMENTS No.
Title
1
Community Bulletin - 14-18 Livingstone Street - Fact Sheet
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COMMUNITY INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES - SHOP 48 THE MALL, WEST HEIDELBERG
Author: Giovanna Savini - Manager Youth & Family Services, Community Programs File:
BS34/035/003
Previous Items Council on 22 April 2013 (Item 2.1 - Relocation of Banyule Support and Information Centre (BANSIC)) Council on 14 April 2014 (Item 6.3 - Community Information and Support Services Review) Council on 5 May 2014 (Item 6.3 - Community Information and Support Services Review) Council on 7 September 2015 (Item 5.2 - Community Information and Support Services - Integrated Service Model) Council on 21 September 2015 (Item 5.3 - Community Information and Support Services - Service Model) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Council resolved on 21 September 2015 to reconfirm its commitment to a Community Information and Support Service model with a service presence in the geographic locations of Heidelberg West and Greensborough and seek a service provider for the new West Heidelberg site via a public tender process. Following an unsuccessful public tender outcome, Council proceeded to engage a consultant as Facility Manager, to deliver on the Community Information and Support Service objectives for Shop 48, The Mall, West Heidelberg, including the development of a strategic plan for the facility and overseeing the establishment of the overall service centre. Shop 48 is planned to commence service operations in late March 2016 building to a full suite of services over the next 18 months with the view to ultimately handing over a well-established and dynamic service centre to a community based model. In the interim, following completion of refurbishment works at Shop 48 in October 2015, Council in partnership with the community continues to run a series of planned programs activating the public access spaces at Shop 48. A community consultation process to name the new West Heidelberg centre was undertaken late 2015. There were clear common themes presented representing the location and community’ views for the ethos of the space going forward, with the centre name being confirmed as “SHOP 48 – The Harmony Centre” Full consideration of the options proposed by Banyule Support and Information Centre (BANSIC) and Volunteers of Banyule (VOB) has been undertaken in context with the service establishment progress of Shop 48, and it is proposed the agencies be supported with an extension to their current lease arrangements at 80 Hawdon Street, Heidelberg, until 30 June 2016.
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COMMUNITY INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES - SHOP 48 THE MALL, WEST HEIDELBERG cont’d RECOMMENDATION That Council: 1.
Reconfirm its commitment to a consistent Community Information and Support Service model across Banyule municipality with a service presence in the geographic locations of Heidelberg West and Greensborough.
2.
Following the establishment of the new service centre in West Heidelberg, enter into new service level agreements across both service centres that ensure consistent service outcomes across the municipality for both the north and south service locations.
3.
In relation to the lease at 80 Hawdon Street, Heidelberg, currently occupied by Banyule Support and Information Centre (BANSIC) and Volunteers of Banyule (VOB), give formal notice of Council’s intent to extend the current lease arrangements for a further three months until 30 June 2016.
OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “develop and deliver best value services and facilities”. BACKGROUND On 5 May 2014, Council resolved to move toward an integrated community information and support service model with consideration to be given to service locations across the municipality on preferred service sites in the north and south moving forward into the future. Further to this at the 21 September 2015 meeting, Council resolved the following: That Council: 1.
Acknowledges that its commitment to an integrated community information and support service model with the existing agencies being Banyule Support and Information Centre (BANSIC), Diamond Valley Community Support (DVCS) and Volunteers of Banyule (VOB) is no longer possible.
2.
Reconfirm its commitment to a community information and support service model with a service presence in the geographic locations of Heidelberg West and Greensborough.
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COMMUNITY INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES - SHOP 48 THE MALL, WEST HEIDELBERG cont’d 3.
Advertise via a public tender process for the delivery of an Information and Support Service from the new Heidelberg West service location.
4.
Confirm continuation of community information and support service delivery from the existing Greensborough location by the existing service provider Diamond Valley Community Support (DVCS).
5.
At the completion of the tender process, enter into new service level agreements that ensure consistent service outcomes across the municipality for both the north and south service locations.
6.
Enter into a service level agreement defining service outcomes and funding and lease arrangements with Banyule Support and Information Centre (BANSIC) and Volunteers of Banyule (VOB) for the continuation of services to the Banyule community during the tender process, including the full acquittal of allocated funding received.
7.
Formally thank the Committees of Management, the staff and volunteers of the Banyule Support and Information Centre (BANSIC), Diamond Valley Community Support (DVCS) and Volunteers of Banyule (VOB) for their commitment and community service over the years and formally advise them of Council’s intention regarding future service delivery inviting them to participate in the public tender process.
8.
Following the finalisation of the tender for the Heidelberg West service consider a further report on the facility at 80 Hawdon Street, Heidelberg.
To deliver on this resolution, the following projects were undertaken over the subsequent months: 1.
Establishment of Community Services Hub at Shop 48 The Mall, West Heidelberg
Naming the space Council ran a “name you space” campaign late 2015 inviting the community to visit the site and suggest a name for the new service centre. This campaign was met with a strong level of interest from the community with many suggestions being put forward. There were clear common themes presented that represented the location and community’s views for the ethos of the space going forward. The centre name being confirmed as “SHOP 48 – The Harmony Centre” Service establishment Council is seeking to establish a service operating out of the refurbished Shop 48 The Mall, West Heidelberg, site, that represents community information and support services and volunteer resource management and support, underpinned by a strong volunteer base. The service also includes the establishment of a range of co-located services that are complementary and meet the requirements of the local community, and community access to Shop 48’s public facility spaces.
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COMMUNITY INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES - SHOP 48 THE MALL, WEST HEIDELBERG cont’d The service is to be delivered across the Southern end of the municipality, specifically to the population located in postcodes 3079, 3081, 3084 and 3085 and work in collaboration with Diamond Valley Community Support (DVCS), the service provider to the Northern end of the municipality. A public tender seeking a suitable service provider was advertised in October 2015. However as no suitable tender responses were received the tender process was subsequently abandoned and a changed service establishment model proceeded. A consultant has since been engaged by Council as Facility Manager to deliver on the overall service objectives including development of a strategic plan for the facility and overseeing the establishment of service operations which are scheduled to commence late March 2016, building the service over the next 18 months with the view to ultimately handing over a well-established and dynamic service to a community based model. Banyule Housing Support Group and the Somali Australian Council of Victoria will commence operation from the site in March 2016 as planned. In the interim, following completion of refurbishment works at Shop 48 in October 2015, Council in partnership with the community have been running a series of planned programs activating the public access spaces of Shop 48. Management of existing services BANSIC, VOB and DVCS. On 24 September 2015, Council officers wrote to the three respective agencies advising of 21 September 2015 Council Resolution and inviting their participation in the upcoming tender process for service provision at Shop 48. All three agencies determined to not submit a tender proposal for the new service provision at West Heidelberg for council consideration. Further action progressed as follows: DVCS As resolved, DVCS’s existing partnering agreement has been extended until 31 March 2016, after which it will be reviewed to align with Shop 48 service objectives to ensure consistent service outcomes for both the north and south service locations is achieved into the future. BANSIC and VOB As resolved Council officers wrote to BANSIC and VOB advising extension of partnering agreement until 31 March 2016 as well the revised funding allocation for 2015 – 2016 financial year for the 40 week period from June 2015 – March 2016. BANSIC and VOB through the engaged services of Glenburn Consulting wrote to Council in December 2015 seeking consideration by Council for a series of service and support proposals. Council officers met with the respective agencies in December 2015 to gain clarity on considerations being sought from Council with the following revised proposals being presented to Council for consideration in January 2016.
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Agency Proposal BANSIC & VOB (combined proposal)
Commentary
Form a specific council subcommittee or working group to objectively review and consider a structured strategic plan proposal to be prepared and presented by BANSIC/VOB no later than 31 March 2016
Council is open to reviewing any and all proposals presented by agencies.
Work proactively with VOB/ BANSIC to encourage DVCS to return to the merge discussion table.
Council resolved on 2 September 2015 to abandon this model.
Appropriately support approaches which may be made by BANSIC /VOB to other synergistic network /service organisations
It is Council best practice to support agency collaboration and partnerships across Banyule community.
Allow BANSIC/VOB to continue operating from the current 80 Hawdon St facility or other suitable premises until at least 1 January 2017 under a nominal rental agreement
Propose supporting BANSIC & VOB lease at 80 Hawdon St be extended from 31 March 2016 until 30 June 2016.
Provide partial operational cost funding beyond April 2016 sufficient to allow a realistic timeframe for VOB and BANSIC to identify, evaluate and develop alternative funding sources.
Council resolved on 5 May 2014 to redirect the current budget allocation to the new service in West Heidelberg. Further on 21 September 2015 Council resolved to continue funding arrangements for BANSIC & VOB until funding allocation transfers to new service in West Heidelberg effective April 2016.
Agree to the BANSIC/ VOB proposal that they work closely with Banyule City Council to: • catchment wide Emergency Relief funding strategy
All identified service objectives to be delivered by Shop 48 Community Information Support Service.
• develop a whole of catchment comprehensive strategy and plan for volunteer resource management. • Seek efficiency opportunities in provision of support services
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COMMUNITY INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES - SHOP 48 THE MALL, WEST HEIDELBERG cont’d Continuing to acknowledge the efforts and good will of both BANSIC and VOB agencies and volunteers more broadly, in considering the proposals put forward, it is officer recommendation that an extension to their current lease arrangements at 80 Hawdon Street, Heidelberg, be extended until 30 June 2016, however the proposal for additional funding is not supported due to the available budget being redirected and required for establishment and operations of the new service in West Heidelberg. HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER Victoria's Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (the Charter) outlines the basic human rights of all people in Victoria. The Charter requires that governments, local councils and other public authorities comply with Charter and to consider relevant Charter rights when they make decisions. In developing this report to Council, the subject matter has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities. It is considered that the subject matter does not raise any human rights issues. TIMELINES Council officers are working closely with the engaged consultant in the establishment of the community information and support service in West Heidelberg. The project program is on track to achieve operational commencement by April 2016 for the new service. CONCLUSION With the engagement of a consultant as Shop 48 Facility Manager, Council aims to deliver on the overall Community Information and support service objectives for Shop 48, The Mall, West Heidelberg, including development of a strategic plan for the facility and overseeing the establishment of overall service. Shop 48 is planned to commence service operations in late March 2016 building to a full suite of services over the next 18 months with the view to ultimately handing over a well-established and dynamic service centre to a community based model. Banyule Housing Support Group and the Somali Australian Council of Victoria will commence operation from the site in March 2016 as planned. In the interim, following completion of refurbishment works at Shop 48 in October 2015, Council in partnership with community continue to run a series of planned programs activating the public access spaces at Shop 48. Further, considering the various options proposed by BANSIC and VOB, in continuing to acknowledge the efforts and good will of both agencies and their volunteers more broadly, it is proposed the agencies be supported with an extension to current lease arrangements at 80 Hawdon St Heidelberg until 30 June 2016.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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9 JOHN STREET, IVANHOE - PROPOSED LEASE TO IVANHOE BOWLING CLUB INC
Author:
Jeanette Kringle - Property Co-ordinator, City Development
Ward:
Griffin
File:
F2013/1249
6.7
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
Previous Items Council on 22 February 2016 (Item 6.1 - Proposed Leases for Montmorency, Rosanna and Ivanhoe Bowling Clubs) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Ivanhoe Bowling Club Inc (Club) currently operates from Council-owned land at 9 John Street, Ivanhoe. The former Heidelberg Council leased the land and improvements to the Club. That lease has now expired. The proposal, which is to enter into a new lease with the Club, triggered the need to give public notice under section 190 of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act). Public notice was given in the “Heidelberg Leader” on 12 January 2016 with the public invited to make submissions on the proposal in accordance with section 223 of the Act. The submission period closed at 5:00pm on 10 February 2016, with one submission being received. The submission was received and considered by Council at its meeting of 22 February 2015. This report seeks Council’s decision on the granting of the lease to the Club for the term of five (5), with no further term, for the commencing rent of $104.00 per annum plus GST and annual CPI increments. RECOMMENDATION That: 1.
Having complied with sections 190 and 223 of the Local Government Act 1989: a. by giving public notice in the “Heidelberg Leader” on 12 January 2016; and b. by recording that one (1) submission was received; and c. by providing an opportunity to those who have requested to be heard at Council’s Ordinary Meeting of 22 February 2016 to be heard at that meeting; and d. noting that the submitter’s concerns had been satisfied; Council grants to the Ivanhoe Bowling Club Inc (Club), a lease of the Councilowned land and improvements currently occupied by the Club at 9 John Street, Ivanhoe, for the term of five (5) years at the commencing rent of $104.00 per annum plus GST and annual CPI increments.
2.
The necessary documentation to effect the lease to the Club be signed and sealed at the appropriate time.
3.
The submitter be advised of Council’s decision and the reason for that decision.
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6.7
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
9 JOHN STREET, IVANHOE - PROPOSED LEASE TO IVANHOE BOWLING CLUB INC cont’d OFFICER DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act) requires members of Council staff, and persons engaged under contract to provide advice to Council, to disclose any direct or indirect interest in a matter to which the advice relates. Council officers involved in the preparation of this report have no conflict of interest in this matter. CITY PLAN This report is in line with Council’s City Plan key direction to “develop and deliver best value services and facilities”. BACKGROUND The Ivanhoe Bowling Club Inc (Club) currently operates from Council-owned land at 9 John Street Ivanhoe. The Club has operated from these premises for many years. An aerial plan showing the location of the premises is shown in Figure 1. The former Heidelberg Council leased the land and improvements to the Club. This lease has now expired.
Figure 1: Aerial plan
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9 JOHN STREET, IVANHOE - PROPOSED LEASE TO IVANHOE BOWLING CLUB INC cont’d HUMAN RIGHTS CHARTER Victoria's Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (Charter) outlines the basic human rights of all people in Victoria. The Charter requires that governments, local councils and other public authorities comply with the Charter and to consider relevant Charter rights when they make decisions. In developing this report to Council, the subject matter has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Charter. In particular, Section 20 provides that “A person must not be deprived of his or her property other than in accordance with law”. It is considered that the subject matter does not raise any human rights issues. Any person who considers they have been deprived of their rights may make a submission in accordance with Section 223 of the Act with respect to a proposal to grant a lease. LEGAL CONSIDERATION The proposal to enter into the new lease triggered the need to give public notice under section 190 of the Act. Public notice of the proposal was given in the “Heidelberg Leader” on 12 January 2016, with the public invited to make submissions on the proposal in accordance with section 223 of the Act. The submission period closed at 5:00 pm on 22 February 2016, with one submission being received. SUBMISSION RECEIVED The submitter, being an existing co-tenant at 9 John Street Ivanhoe (tennis club), sought an alteration to the proposed “lease plan” to reduce the common area shared with the club. The proposed alteration to the “lease plan” does not affect access to and around the bowling club building but simply allows recognition of the existing circumstances including maintenance responsibilities. The co-tenant, being the bowling club, has agreed to the alteration proposed by the submitter and has clarified certain use and maintenance responsibilities in relation to the common area. CURRENT SITUATION The giving of public notice does not obligate Council to approve the proposal to grant the lease. It is merely an invitation to the public to make a submission in respect to the proposal. Having considered the written submission and noted that the concerns of the submitter have been satisfied by altering the “lease plan” to recognise the existing circumstances, Council must now decide whether or not to grant a lease to that club.
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6.7
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
6.7
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
9 JOHN STREET, IVANHOE - PROPOSED LEASE TO IVANHOE BOWLING CLUB INC cont’d CONCLUSION The proposal to grant a new lease to Ivanhoe Bowling Club Inc for the term of five (5) years, for an annual rental of $104.00 plus GST and annual CPI increments, should be supported. ATTACHMENTS Nil
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6.8
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS
Author:
Ellen Kavanagh - Governance Officer, Corporate Services
File:
F2015/337
6.8
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Under the Local Government Act 1989 an Assembly of Councillors is defined as: A meeting of an advisory committee of the Council, if at least one Councillor is present or; A planned or scheduled meeting of at least half of the Councillors and one member of Council staff which considers matters that are intended or likely to be: a) b)
the subject of a decision of the Council or; subject to the exercise of a function, duty or power of the Council that has been delegated to a person or committee.
In accordance with Section 80A of the Local Government Act 1989 Council is required to report as soon as possible to an Ordinary Meeting of Council a record of any assemblies of Councillors held. Below is the latest listing of notified assemblies of Councillors held at Banyule City Council. RECORD OF ASSEMBLIES 1
Date of Assembly:
20-21 February 2016
Type of Meeting:
Councillor Strategic Planning Workshop
Matters Considered:
• • • • •
Councillors Present:
Staff Present:
Current Local Government sector context and associated implications Key priorities/deliverables over the next 12 months Key advocacy priorities over the next 12 months – Budget/City Plan Priorities Portfolio Updates Planning for the future, key issues, Opportunities and Challenges Governance (Councillor Code of Conduct review, election Period Policy, Local Government Act Amendments)
Mark Di Pasquale Rick Garotti Craig Langdon Tom Melican Jenny Mulholland Wayne Phillips Simon McMillan – Chief Executive Officer Allison Beckwith – Director Community Programs Scott Walker – Director City Development Marc Giglio – Director Corporate Services Geoff Glynn – Director Assets & City Services Gina Burden – Manager Governance & Communication Peter Utri – Manager Organisational Systems
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6.8
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS cont’d James Kelly – Manager Assets & Infrastructure
2
Others Present:
Lydia Wilson - Facilitator
Conflict of Interest:
Nil
Date of Assembly:
22 February 2016
Type of Meeting:
Multicultural Advisory Committee
Matters Considered:
• •
Overview of Multicultural Advisory Committee Discussion with Mary Wooldridge MP and Inga Peulich MLC • Bell Street Mall Cultural Precinct • Bus Tour for new arrivals in Banyule – update • Engagement with Victorian Multicultural Commission • Cultural Diversity Week 2016 – Activities • 2016 Census • Banyule Litter Strategy • Banyule Safe Travel Plan Councillors Present: Steve Briffa Mark Di Pasquale Craig Langdon Tom Melican Jenny Mulholland Staff Present: Allison Beckwith – Director Community Programs Theonie Tacticos – Team Leader Community & Social Planning India Mortlock – Community & Social Planner Margaret Morgan – Waste Education Coordinator Michelle Herbert – Senior Transport Engineer Others Present: Inga Peulich MLC Mary Wooldridge MP Karen Cosson – Consultant Committee Members: Uma Vijay Rosemary Crosthwaite Ryoko Williams Bev Moss Jane Grace Albert Fatileh Conflict of Interest: Nil 3
Date of Assembly:
22 February 2016
Type of Meeting:
Councillor Briefing
Matters Considered:
2.1 2.2 4.1 4.2 4.3
Ordinary Meeting of Council - 7 March 2016
Watsonia Pilot Busking Project Northern Region Trails Strategy Taxi Rank Safety Program 2015-2016 Draft Residential Parking Permit Policy Victorian Government Review of the New Residential Zones
Page 100
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS cont’d
Councillors Present:
Staff Present:
4
5.1 Community Development Grants Proposal 6.1 Proposed Leases for Montmorency, Rosanna and Ivanhoe Bowling Clubs 6.2 Proposed Lease to The Scout Association of Australia, Victorian Branch 6.3 Quarterly Financial Management Report for Period Ended 31 December 2015 6.4 Assembly of Councillors 7.1 Sealing of Documents 22 February 2016 8.1 75th Anniversary of Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital 8.2 Bell St Mall Improvements Steven Briffa Mark Di Pasquale Rick Garotti Craig Langdon Tom Melican Jenny Mulholland Wayne Phillips
Others Present:
Simon McMillan – Chief Executive Officer Allison Beckwith – Director Community Programs Scott Walker – Director City Development Marc Giglio – Director Corporate Services Geoff Glynn – Director Assets & City Services Daniel Kollmorgen – Manager Transport, Sustainability & Municipal Laws Joseph Tabacco – Manager, Property & Economic Development Peter Benazic – Manager Parks & Gardens Jeff Parkes – Open Space Planning Co-Ordinator Vivien Ferlaino – Governance Co-ordinator Ellen Kavanagh – Governance Officer Nil
Conflict of Interest:
Nil
Date of Assembly:
29 February 2016
Type of Meeting:
Councillor Briefing
Matters Considered:
2016/17 Budget: Capital Works Fees and Charges Budget Timetable Steven Briffa Mark Di Pasquale Rick Garotti Craig Langdon Tom Melican Jenny Mulholland Wayne Phillips
Councillors Present:
Staff Present:
Simon McMillan – Chief Executive Officer Allison Beckwith – Director Community Programs
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6.8
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
6.8
Performance - Use Our Resources Wisely
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS cont’d
Others Present:
Scott Walker – Director City Development Marc Giglio – Director Corporate Services Geoff Glynn – Director Assets & City Services James Kelly – Manager Assets & Infrastructure Tania O’Reilly – Manager Finance & Procurement Nil
Conflict of Interest:
Nil
RECOMMENDATION That the Assembly of Councillors report be received.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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7.1
Sealing of Documents
7.1
YARRA PLENTY REGIONAL LIBRARY SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT
Author:
Allison Beckwith - Director - Community Programs, Community Programs
File:
D16/9027
RECOMMENDATION That the Common Seal of the Banyule City Council be affixed to the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Supplemental Agreement. The following documents require the affixing of the Common Seal of Council: 1
PARTY\PARTIES: OFFICER: FILE NUMBER: DOCUMENT: ADDRESS: BRIEF EXPLANATION:
Banyule City Council, City of Whittlesea and Shire of Nillumbik Allison Beckwith D16/9027 Yarra Plenty Regional Library Supplemental Agreement Civic Centre, Ferres Boulevard, South Morang On 14 December 1995, Council entered into an Agreement with Nillumbik and Whittlesea Councils to form a regional library. The Agreement established the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service (YPRLS) and provided for the management and operation of the Library. The Primary Agreement requires that the member Councils and the Board of the YPRLS review the operation of the Agreement at least once in every five years. The most recent review undertaken in late 2015 focused particularly in the apportionment of the income and expenditure to each of the member Councils. An independent consultant was engaged to undertake this review, which was comprehensive in nature and included two workshops with Board Members and senior library and Council staff. The resultant changes have been considered and resolved upon by the Library Board at its Meeting of 26 November 2015 and requires the formalisation by Banyule City Council by the signing and sealing of the Supplemental agreement by the affixing of Council’s Common Seal.
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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8.1
REMOTELY PILOTED AIRCRAFT (RPA OR DRONES)/UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES (UAV) AND MODEL AIRCRAFT
Author:
Cr Craig Langdon
File:
F2014/1342
8.1
Notice of Motion
TAKE NOTICE that it is my intention to move: “That Banyule City Council advocate to the Australian Government to: 1.
commence a public education program on Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and model aircraft used for sport and recreation, eg., heavily promote the brochure “Flying with Control?”
2.
require sellers of RPA’s, UAV’s and model aircraft used for sport and recreation to either attach: (a) (b)
the brochure, “Flying with Control?”, or a sticker on “Flying with Control?”
to the packaging of the RPA, UAV or model aircraft upon sale. 3.
investigate opportunites to change/tighten the legislation, eg., enabling State Police to become Authorised Officers who can enforce the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998, Part 101.”
Explanation Recent newspaper articles on “selfie drones” which are often smaller and lighter than commercial models are starting to be promoted for sale at prices around $250. These drones are controlled by a smart-phone app and will be able to recognise faces to follow people around and take action shots. It is possible that this sort of activity might impact other members of the public who may be concerned about safety and privacy. The Australian Government’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is the body responsible for regulating and enforcing all unmanned aeronautical activities via the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998, Part 101. CASA has developed a brochure called “Flying with Control? – Get to know the rules”. This brochure is an excellent document and provides all the essential information for members of the public who may have purchased a remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or model aircraft for sport and recreation purposes. A copy of this brochure is attached for information. The use of these RPA’s, UAV’s and model aircraft is becoming very popular. It is a concern that their increased popularity may affect the safety and privacy of the public. This safety and privacy for the public is a very sensitive issue and one that all councils take very seriously.
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8.1
Notice of Motion
REMOTELY PILOTED AIRCRAFT (RPA OR DRONES)/UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES (UAV) AND MODEL AIRCRAFT cont’d Currently, Banyule City Council doesn’t have a problem with RPA’s, UAV’s or model aircraft but it is possible in the future. As a result, I would like to move that Banyule City Council advocate to the Australian Government to commence a public education program, place requirements upon sellers of these “drones” and investigate tighter enforcement opportunities.
CR CRAIG LANGDON Olympia Ward
ATTACHMENTS No.
Title
1
Brochure - Flying with Control?
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8.2
TRAFFIC INVESTIGATION - RUSHWORTH STREET AND REEVES STREET, AND WATSONIA PRIMARY SCHOOL
Author:
Cr Rick Garotti
Ward:
Grimshaw
File:
F2016/47
8.2
Notice of Motion
TAKE NOTICE that it is my intention to move: “That Council: 1.
Note the road safety concerns raised by residents at the intersection of Rushworth Street and Reeves Street, Watsonia.
2.
Note the actions that Council officers are already pursuing in response to these concerns, namely to: a. Seek approval from VicRoads to install 40km/h sign limits along Nell Street West, Knight Street and Meagher Street in Watsonia adjacent to Watsonia Primary School; b. Investigate introducing short-term parking at the southern end of Meagher Street between Nell Street West and the school crossing; c. Review the line marking, sight distance and turning circles at the intersection of Rushworth Street and Reeves Street; d. Undertake traffic speed and volume counts along Rushworth Street; e. Request from VicRoads an area-wide 40kph speed zone in local streets bounded by Grimshaw Street, Watsonia Road and Greensborough Highway.
3.
Report back to Council on possible treatment options at the intersection of Rushworth Street and Reeves Street, Watsonia that would be suitable for installation on a trial basis and to seek funding for a trial in the 2016-17 budget.
4.
Write to local residents on this resolution and include the Ward Councillor’s contact details in the correspondence.”
Explanation During the last “Movies on the Move” event in January, residents raised concerns in relation to the design of the intersection of Rushworth Street and Reeves Street, Watsonia, and requested the installation of a roundabout. In addition, residents also voiced their concerns in relation to the lack of 40km/h speed limit signs in some of the streets adjacent to Watsonia Primary School.
CR RICK GAROTTI Grimshaw Ward ATTACHMENTS - Nil
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8.3
FUNDING SAFE SCHOOLS COALITION AUSTRALIA PROGRAM IN SCHOOLS
Author:
Cr Craig Langdon
File:
F2016/745
8.3
Notice of Motion
TAKE NOTICE that it is my intention to move: “1.
That Banyule City Council advocate and write to the Federal Minister for Education, Senator the Hon Simon Birmingham to continue funding the Safe Schools Coalition Australia program in schools.
2.
Council write to all Federal Members outlining this resolution.”
Explanation On 23 February 2016, the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull ordered a review of the Safe Schools Coalition Australia programme in schools. The review will be conducted by independent consultants and completed by 11 March. The Australian Government provides $8 million over four years to implement the program in schools across Australia and the review may influence whether this funding is continued. The Safe Schools Coalition Australia programme aims to reduce the harm and risks that confront same sex attracted or gender diverse students. It does this by providing teaching and learning resources that aim to assist teachers to increase students’ understanding and awareness of gender diversity, sexual diversity and intersex topics. The resources are aligned to the Health and Physical Education learning areas of the Australian Curriculum. There are currently eight schools in Banyule who are registered members of the Safe Schools Coalition Australia. These schools are: • • • • • • • •
Bundoora Secondary College Greensborough Secondary College Ivanhoe Grammar Ivanhoe Girls Grammar Montmorency Secondary College The Pavilion School Viewbank College Primary School School
The strong uptake of the program by schools in Banyule suggests that it provides valuable and important support to schools. Indeed the program originally came about due to demand from schools, and research (conducted by La Trobe University) showing that young people who are same sex attracted (or questioning) suffer high levels of verbal and physical homophobic abuse in the community, and particularly at school. These experiences have serious consequences for their health and wellbeing, attendance at school and academic achievement.
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8.3
Notice of Motion
FUNDING SAFE SCHOOLS COALITION AUSTRALIA PROGRAM IN SCHOOLS cont’d Research has also established that a supportive and inclusive school environment is essential for all students to be healthy and happy and achieve their potential. We also note that the Safe School Coalition program is an evidenced based program which has been shown to be effective. The Banyule and Nillumbik Youth Services Network Executive works closely with schools in Banyule and Nillumbik and will also write a formal response supporting the Safe Schools Coalition Australia program. Banyule Council has demonstrated a strong commitment to advocating for the rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) communities in Banyule, in consultation with the LGBTI Advisory Committee. Previous advocacy has included advocating to all members of Federal Parliament to support changes to the Marriage Act 1961 to allow same sex couples to marry. In light of the strong uptake of the Safe Schools Coalition Australia programme by schools in Banyule as well as Banyule’s established record of advocating on behalf of LGBTI communities, I would like to move that Banyule City Council advocate to the Federal Minister for Education, Senator the Hon Simon Birmingham to continue funding the Safe Schools Coalition Australia program in schools.
Reference: Hillier, L., et al. (2010). Writing themselves in 3: The 3rd national study on the sexual health and wellbeing of SSAGQ young people. Melbourne: ARCSHS.
CR CRAIG LANGDON Olympia Ward
ATTACHMENTS Nil
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8.4
VETRIDE AND ITS SUPPORT TO THE VIETNAM VETERANS
Author:
Cr Jenny Mulholland
File:
F2016/745
8.4
Notice of Motion
TAKE NOTICE that it is my intention to move: “That: 1.
Council acknowledges its support for VetRide and the work it does in looking after the welfare of Vietnam Veterans and considers making a donation towards the Service and the Sacrifice Tour 2016.
2.
A report be presented to Council on the possible allocation of $5000 towards the Sacrifice Tour 2016.�
Explanation VetRide is an organization dedicated through cycling, to the welfare of all service and ex-service personnel of the Australian Defence Forces. It provides something meaningful that older veterans can do for their younger compatriots, consistent with closely held values, given rise to in uniform. VetRide endeavours are supported widely by government agencies and by many organizations and people from all walks of life, in partnership with Victorian State Government who are supplying the major financial support for the event, to the Prime Minister who has provided a message of support and VetRide operates under the auspices of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia (Victorian Branch). VetRide conducts an annual ride event, the Service and Sacrifice Tour being planned for 2016. It is an all points tour to Canberra, culminating in a final ride and ceremony in Canberra, on Sunday 20th March 2016. The Victorian ride starts Sunday 13th March 2016 at Seymour and ends Sunday 20th March 2016 in Canberra ride via the War Memorial and the Vietnam Memorial to Old Parliament House, for the Ride Finish Ceremony. Preference will be given to service and ex-service personnel, however the event is open to any rider who would like to support the worthwhile cause. The report to Council should advise on the allocation of funds given that this donation is unbudgeted.
CR JENNY MULHOLLAND Griffin Ward ATTACHMENTS
Nil
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8.5
ADVOCACY FOR VITAL TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE IN BANYULE AND THE NORTH EAST OF MELBOURNE
Author:
Cr Mark Di Pasquale
File:
F2015/5557
TAKE NOTICE that it is my intention to move: “1.
That Banyule Council strongly advocates for vital transport infrastructure improvements within Banyule and the wider North East of Melbourne with a focus on the following priorities: a) b)
c)
d)
Direct orbital connection of the Metropolitan Ring Road to Eastlink via a new north east link; Duplication of the Hurstbridge Railway Line through to Eltham (Heidelberg to Rosanna and Greensborough to Eltham) and provision of High Capacity Signalling to improve service frequency to at least 10 minutes throughout the day; Completion of the north east principal bicycle network with a focus on the link between Yallambie Road and Grimshaw Street adjacent to the Greensborough Highway; Public transport improvements in the north east of Melbourne including a new rail line to Doncaster, extension of the South Morang Rail line through to Whittlesea, orbital connecting bus services to rail and tram corridors and other public transport initiatives as outlined in the Banyule Integrated Transport Plan and Northern Horizons Infrastructure Strategy.”
Explanation The population of Melbourne is rapidly growing with the population expected to be more than 8 million people by 2051 and more than 700,000 additional people expected in Melbourne’s Northern region by 2050. Transport is a vital part of the planning for our future population. The expected growth in Banyule alone will add 5,000 car trips to our road network by 2031 during peak hour. To accommodate this growth and ensure that the overall liveability and sustainability of our community, it is important that we seek sustainable transport alternatives but also manage key road based transport in a way to ensure that Banyule remains vibrant, economically competitive and a great place to live. To help guide our strategic transport directions and actions Council has developed the Banyule Integrated Transport Plan (2015-2035) – (BITP). Whilst there is a lot that Council can do the State and Federal Governments are ultimately responsible for the critical key infrastructure projects which will shape our transport future. Many of these projects are identified in the BITP. Key projects for the north of Melbourne are also outlined in Northern Horizons which is a 50 year infrastructure strategy for Melbourne’s North prepared as a partnership between the northern region Councils, NorthLink, Regional Development Australia and LaTrobe University in 2014. Some of the vital key transport infrastructure projects which should be advocated for are:
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8.5
Notice of Motion
8.5
Notice of Motion
ADVOCACY FOR VITAL TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE IN BANYULE AND THE NORTH EAST OF MELBOURNE cont’d a)
Duplication of the Hurstbridge Railway Line as outlined at A38 of the BITP. This would include grade separation of Lower Plenty Road at Rosanna Station, double tracks in all sections and upgrading of the signalling system to enable at least 10 minute frequency of trains throughout the day;
b)
Extension of the South Morang Rail line through to Whittlesea which is beyond the current planned extension to Mernda;
c)
Provision of a new rail line to Doncaster with a new station to service the former Paper Mills redevelopment in Fairfield;
d)
Support the implementation of the Northern Region Trails Strategy to improve links through and beyond Banyule as outlined in Action A28 of the BITP. This includes completion of the north east principal bicycle network with a focus on the link between Yallambie Road and Grimshaw Street adjacent to the Greensborough Highway;
e)
Direct orbital connection of the Metropolitan Ring Road to Eastlink via a new north east link as outlined at Action A51 of the BITP;
f)
Upgrading and maintenance of the main road network within Banyule including ensuring safety and amenity on our arterial roads as outlined at Action A49 of the BITP.
CR MARK DI PASQUALE Bakewell Ward ATTACHMENTS Nil
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8.6
REVIEW ADVOCACY APPROACH TO BULLYING
Author:
Cr Craig Langdon
File:
F2016/745
8.6
Notice of Motion
TAKE NOTICE that it is my intention to move: “1.
That Council receives a report on the 4 April 2016 regarding promotional opportunities to school and the wider community in the documented affects associated with bullying.
2.
The report identifies locally produced documentaries based on the impacts of bullying in the community.
3.
That Council receive advice on the best approach to advocate on the issues associated with bullying.”
Explanation Bullying is when an individual or group repeatedly and intentionally use words or actions against an individual or a group to hurt, abuse, and harass them. This can be quite traumatising for the victim, affecting them emotionally, socially and psychologically as they are made to feel oppressed and powerless. Bullying can occur in school, the workplace, a sporting club, community organisation or online. A one-off dispute or incident may not be considered bullying behaviour and may resolve itself, however when these incidents become repetitive, they are likely to be classed as bullying and should be dealt with promptly. Approximately one in four Year 4 to Year 9 Australian students (27%) report being bullied every few weeks or more often (considered to be frequent) during the last term at school. A recent example of a locally produced documentary is “The Story of Jack”. This is a short 15 minute film on the life of a boy who is affected by bullying. The film focused on the life of a boy, Jack who is severely bullied from a young age through to his teenage years. The story focuses directly upon how the actions of those around him impact upon his life and aims to give a moral perspective on the effects and implications that bullying causes in society through one boy’s account. The film is also seen as a multi-faceted story, which focuses not only on the victim, but also the effects upon family members and the bully himself. The primary purpose of the film is to act as an educational medium for teachers and community to expand knowledge and awareness of students on the implications of behaviours and attitudes toward bullying.
CR CRAIG LANGDON Olympia Ward
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Notice of Motion
8.6
REVIEW ADVOCACY APPROACH TO BULLYING cont’d ATTACHMENTS Nil
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8.7
BANYULE CITY COUNCIL PROCUREMENT POLICY
Author:
Cr Rick Garotti
File:
F2015/1565
TAKE NOTICE that it is my intention to move: “That Council: 1.
Takes into consideration the ethical business activities of our service providers when assessing the procurement of goods and services.
2.
Incorporate the requirement for Council officers to consider ethical business activities of service providers when conducting the annual review of Council’s Procurement Policy scheduled for August 2016.”
Explanation Banyule City Council’s Procurement Policy recognises that developing a procurement strategy and adopting appropriate best practice contracting and procurement principles, policies, processes and procedures for all goods, services and works by Council, will enhance achievement of Council objectives such as sustainable and socially responsible procurement; bottom-line cost savings, supporting local economies; achieving innovation; and better services for communities. The policy demonstrates Councils commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) including minimising the negative aspects of their activities in the community. The annual review of Banyule’s Procurement Policy provides the opportunity to review and update Council’s procurement practices to incorporate any legislative requirements and changes to Council objectives. This will include the consideration of incorporating ‘ethical business activities’ in the assessment of service providers to strengthen our commitment to CSR. The next annual review is scheduled for August 2016.
CR RICK GAROTTI Grimshaw Ward ATTACHMENTS Nil
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8.7
Notice of Motion
8.8
SEALING OF MACLEOD PARK CAR PARK
Author:
Cr Tom Melican
File:
F2016/225
8.8
Notice of Motion
TAKE NOTICE that it is my intention to move: “That Council, as part of the 2016/17 budget, consider the allocation of funding to seal the car park at Macleod Park, to improve safety and accessibility for all users.� Explanation As Macleod Park is a junior football venue, during the season each game is between a different away team and home team. This causes chaos as the car park is not line marked and people park in a disorganised manner blocking vehicles and is hazardous for pedestrians. The club has tried to organise the car parking, but this is extremely difficult due to the number of visitors, the odd shape of the car park, the gravel surface and the slope on the western side. If the car park was sealed and line marked, it would increase the capacity, ensure vehicles are not blocked and improve pedestrian safety.
CR TOM MELICAN Ibbott Ward ATTACHMENTS Nil
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ATTACHMENTS
2.1
Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Draft Master Plans Attachment 1 Attachment 2 Attachment 3 Attachment 4
4.1
Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan (Revised Draft) Attachment 2 Attachment 3
4.2
Election Period Policy - Draft ......................................................... 253 Election Period Policy - Human Rights Assessment ...................... 268
14-18 Livingstone Street Ivanhoe - Hear submissions on proposed sale of land Attachment 1
8.1
BEAC February 2016 Notes .......................................................... 250
Election Period Policy Attachment 1 Attachment 2
6.5
Response to Original Objections ................................................... 233 Neighbourhood Character Assessment ......................................... 238 Clause 55 Assessment.................................................................. 245
Items for Noting Attachment 1
6.4
Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 2 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016 .............................. 223 Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 3 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016 .............................. 229
Substituted Plans for VCAT hearing for development of five double storey dwellings at 34 - 36 Munro Street, Macleod. Attachment 1 Attachment 2 Attachment 3
6.1
Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan - Final Draft Report - Feb 2016 ......................................................................... 118 Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016..................................................... 142 Petrie Park Key Directions - Feb 2016........................................... 221 Rattray Reserve Key Directions - Feb 2016................................... 222
Community Bulletin - 14-18 Livingstone Street - Fact Sheet .......... 270
Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA or Drones)/Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and Model Aircraft Attachment 1
Brochure - Flying with Control?...................................................... 272
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Attachment 1
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SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd Adelaide ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 119
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2a Mellor St West Beach SA 5024 Phone: +61 (08) 8235 0925 Fax: +61 (08) 8353 1067 Email: sa@sglgroup.net
Attachment 1
Brisbane PO Box 713 Mount Gravatt Queensland 4122 Mobile: +61 (0) 416 235 235 Email: queensland@sglgroup.net Melbourne Level 6, 60 Albert Road South Melbourne VIC 3205 Phone: +61 (03) 9698 7300 Fax: +61 (03) 9698 7301 Email: victoria@sglgroup.net Perth 19 Clayton Street East Fremantle WA 6158 Phone: +61 (0) 8 9319-8991 Mobile: +61 (0) 407 901 636 Email: gmcneill@sglgroup.net Sydney 1/273 Alfred St Nth North Sydney NSW 2060 Mobile: +61 (04) 17 536 198 Email: mking@sglgroup.net SGL also has offices in: • Auckland • Christchurch • Wellington
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Table of Contents Executive Summary .................................................................................................. i 1 Introduction and Background............................................................................ 1 1.1 1.2
Introduction ............................................................................................................. 1 Project Site Overview .............................................................................................. 2
2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 3 2.2 Master Plan Design Petrie Park .............................................................................. 3 2.2.1 Unstructured Recreation ...................................................................................... 3 2.2.2 Access and Egress .............................................................................................. 4 2.2.3 Pathways............................................................................................................. 4 2.2.4 Sporting Facilities ................................................................................................ 4 2.2.5 Community Buildings ........................................................................................... 4 2.2.6 Parking ................................................................................................................ 5 2.2.7 Fencing................................................................................................................ 5 2.2.8 Support Infrastructure .......................................................................................... 5 2.2.9 Vegetation ........................................................................................................... 6 2.2.10 Other ................................................................................................................... 6 2.3 Master Plan Design Rattray Reserve...................................................................... 8 2.3.1 Vegetation and Habitat ........................................................................................ 8 2.3.2 Access and Egress .............................................................................................. 8 2.3.3 Fencing................................................................................................................ 8 2.3.4 Other ................................................................................................................... 8 2.4 Weed Management Priorities and Program for Rattray Reserve ....................... 11 2.4.1 Introduction........................................................................................................ 11 2.4.2 Developing a Weed Management Program and Conclusions ............................ 11
3 Implementation of Master Plan ........................................................................ 12 3.1
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 12
Appendix 1................................................................................................................ 1 Indicative Master Plan Cost - Petrie Park............................................................... 1 Appendix 2................................................................................................................ 4 Indicative Master Plan Cost – Rattray Reserve ..................................................... 4
Directory of Tables TABLE 5.3 ESTIMATED COSTS AND TIMEFRAME FOR RECOMMENDED WORKS.................12 OPINION OF PROBABLE COST FOR RECOMMENDED WORKS AT PETRIE PARK .......................1 OPINION OF PROBABLE COST FOR RECOMMENDED WORKS AT RATTRAY RESERVE ............4
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Attachment 1
2 Master Plan Design............................................................................................. 3
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Executive Summary Banyule City Council has commissioned this study to complete a Master Plan to guide the future development of Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve in Montmorency.
Attachment 1
In January 2015 SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd in partnership with Practical Ecology and Michael Smith and Associates Landscape Architects and Urban Design were commissioned to undertake the development of the Master Plan. The objective of the project was to prepare a master plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve to ensure the best outcomes for the community, with improved facilities, better linkages and access, and a long term sustainable plan for the precinct. The vision for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve is “Petrie Park/Rattray Reserve Precinct provides many opportunities for the community and provides for leisure, recreational and sporting activities in a safe environment�. The project involved extensive consultation with Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve user groups, the community and Council Officers. Household surveys, stakeholder interviews, external reference group workshops and three community drop-in events were conducted to ensure the Master Plans reflect the needs of the local community. The Master Plans have been prepared to optimise the use of the Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve for active and informal recreation and seeks to improve facilities to meet current and future community needs and expectations. A Technical and Consultation Report has been prepared for this project and provides full details of all background research and consultation undertaken in the preparation of the master plans. This report is a summary of the actions identified from the community, club, and Council Officer consultations and the recommendations for the Master Plans prepared for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. The works identified in the Master Plans have been costed and indicative timelines set for works to be undertaken. The estimated cost to implement all elements of the master plans including a Council contribution of $1,000,000 to the proposed multi-purpose community facility and a 10% contingency is $3,082,260 excluding GST. Banyule City Council will need to seek partnerships and funding opportunities with various external stakeholders in order to achieve several of the proposed works identified in the master plans.
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1 Introduction and Background
Banyule City Council commissioned this study to prepare a Master Plan to guide the future development of Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve in Montmorency and in January 2015 SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd in partnership with Practical Ecology and Michael Smith and Associates Landscape Architects and Urban Design undertook the development of the Master Plan. A separate report titled the Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report has been prepared and is to be referenced for specific detail in relation to the consultation and preparation of the master plans for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. The Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report includes the following: • • • • • • • • •
Project Background Project Site Overview Previous Research Review Site Assessment Community Consultation Stakeholder Consultation Issues and Opportunities Draft Master Plans Resident Survey
This report includes a high level summary of the following: • • • • • •
Project Site Overview Petrie Park Master Plan Rattray Reserve Master Plan Weed Management Plan Summary - Rattray Reserve Implementation Plan Funding Opportunities
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1.1 Introduction
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1.2 Project Site Overview
Attachment 1
Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve are located between Mountain View Rd and Rattray Rd, Montmorency. Petrie Park is described as a well-developed and heavily utilised recreation reserve, on which the following facilities are provided: •
Maternal and Child Health Centre
•
Montmorency RSL
•
Community Hall
•
Sports oval (junior size) with concrete cricket wicket
•
Sports pavilion (small)
•
Two lawn bowls greens (2 synthetic)
•
Montmorency Bowling clubrooms
•
Diamond Valley Pigeon Clubrooms
•
Montmorency Scout Hall
•
Neighbourhood level playground
•
Barbecue and picnic facilities
Located to the south-east and almost adjacent to Petrie Park is Rattray Reserve. Rattray Reserve is an area of remnant bushland covering approximately 1.9 hectares. The reserve is made up of two Ecological Vegetation Communities, Box-Stringybark Woodland and Valley Grassy Forest, and contains over 150 indigenous flora species. It has limited through traffic and is bounded by the rear fences of residential properties on three of its four sides. The location of both reserves is between Mountain View Rd and Rattray Rd, Montmorency.
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2 Master Plan Design
The following section details the design options and key elements of the recommended Master Plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve following extensive community consultation. Based on the recommended actions within the Master Plans an implementation plan indicating indicative costs and development priorities has been prepared.
2.2 Master Plan Design Petrie Park The following section provides a summary of the key directions identified for Petrie Park within the Master Plan following exploration of the issues and opportunities identified in the Technical and Consultation Report. It should be noted that the Montmorency community are interested in having input into specific design aspects of what has been proposed in the master plan. In particular, the opportunity for creative and artistic expression through park features should be considered in order to ensure that Petrie Park reflects the aspirations and interests of the local community.
2.2.1 Unstructured Recreation •
The natural topography of the site provides opportunities for developing a unique intergenerational play/activity experience. • Incorporate exercise/play opportunities with custom designed park furniture at the Robert St end of the park. • Plant trees on the north west side of the playground and install shade sail to increase shade. • Install more seating on the north side of the playground e.g. raised benches and at the eastern end of the sports ground. • Use more natural materials in the playground and surrounds, such as rocks, planting, boulders, logs etc. • Create a barrier between the playground and the road using indigenous plant species or logs. • Level the space between the picnic shelter and public toilet to provide a better quality grassed picnic area/space. Comment Whilst a petition was received for the inclusion of a skate park within Petrie Park, it was not considered appropriate to develop a skate park in this location given the topography of the site and the already high utilisation of the site. It is recognized however that currently there are limited play opportunities for older children and therefore intergenerational play experiences will be considered for the future. The exact nature of this to be determined following a community consultation process when funding becomes available.
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2.2.2 Access and Egress • •
Install raised walkways and line marking as vehicle slow points where appropriate throughout the park. Highlight that pedestrians have priority of access. Reshape and remove part of the existing cenotaph site to increase visibility when exiting the carpark behind the RSL and children’s centre.
2.2.3 Pathways
Attachment 1
•
Develop a path network throughout the park ensuring a path runs from Mountain View Road to Roberts Street. • Widen the footpath on Mountain View Road and install a safe crossing point on Mountain View Rd and Bridge Crescent. Comment The proposed switch back path from Mountain View Road will improve accessibility. There will be challenges in achieving the necessary gradient required under the Disability Discrimination Act due to the steepness of the slope. This will be further understood when detailed designs are developed for the path network. It is recommended that hand rails are installed along the switch back path. As there may be the possibility of a bike path along the railway line which would connect the Plenty River to the Diamond Creek Trail in the future, the proposed path network does not limit this possibility.
2.2.4 Sporting Facilities •
Redevelop the internal layout of the existing pavilion to incorporate a kitchenette and storage. Add a verandah on the eastern side and install external bench seating. • Install sports ground lighting to training standard (minimum 50 lux) in order to spread wear and tear across the whole playing surface. • Replace the goal posts. • Upgrade the ground surface with drainage and irrigation. Comment In order to increase the amenity and functionality of the pavilion internal modifications are required. The addition of a verandah will provide weather protection for sporting clubs, personal training groups as well as the general community. With the continuing high growth of junior sport in Banyule, and the heavy utilisation of all sporting grounds across Banyule, Petrie Park provides a valuable space for junior sports training. In particular, there has been a rapid increase in female football participation in Montmorency in recent years and Petrie Park would provide a suitable training venue for these participants. Full sports ground lighting for training purposes and an upgrade to the playing surface is required in order to facilitate the effective use of the sports ground. In addition, when in use sports ground lighting for structured activity also offers opportunities for residents to safely use the park at night for unstructured activity such as walking, exercising and walking the dog for example.
2.2.5 Community Buildings •
•
That a feasibility study be undertaken to determine the viability of consolidating the pigeon club and the scout hall with the bowling club to create a larger multi-purpose community facility servicing all three groups as well as other community needs. The study should consider the north east side of the bowling club and utilise the slope to create a two storey facility. The building form is to minimise the shadows cast on to the bowling greens. This feasibility will also include car parking and traffic management of the overall site. If a new multi-purpose facility servicing bowls, scout and pigeon club activities were developed on the north side of the bowling greens, the area on the east side of the bowling
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greens could be used for car parking. The pigeon club site could be considered for additional car parking. Comment
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A feasibility study will be required to ascertain the ideal location and the necessary components for the consolidation of the three facilities into a single building. Each of the clubs have specific needs and due to the nature of the scout group catering to children this group will require their own toilets and kitchen facilities within their designated space, thus limiting the possibilities of sharing such facilities with other user groups.
Council should consider selling the rectangular parcel of land behind the Montmorency Bowling, adjacent to the rear property of 1 Allens Rd. This parcel of land is difficult to use in a meaningful way and through the master plan process interest to purchase the land has been raised. Proceeds from a potential sale could be used to offset improvement works in the park.
2.2.6 Parking •
Increase the number of carparks where possible without significant impact on green space. Depending on whether community facilities at the eastern end of the reserve are consolidated there could be an opportunity to utilise the current location of the bowling and pigeon club racing club rooms. • Provide sufficient disabled car parking spaces throughout the park. Comment The possibility of additional car parking at the eastern end of the bowling club will relieve some of the pressure on the middle car park. It is also desirable for Council to consider time restrictions in the carpark to deter all-day parking by train commuters, particularly towards the Mountain View Rd end of the park.
2.2.7 Fencing • Installation of vegetation fencing around the junior playground given proximity to driveway. • Install fencing along the south side of the sports ground, along the new path. Comment It is recommended that the existing pipe and rail fence is removed and replaced with a fence between the new pathway and the road. Park user groups expressed interest in being consulted during the planning/design of a new fence.
2.2.8 Support Infrastructure • • •
Installation of security lighting throughout the park. Install a recycling bin near the picnic shelter. Install a rubbish bin and drinking fountain at the eastern end of the park and relocate a bin from the picnic area closer to the playground. • Upgrade the public toilets to reflect contemporary access standards relevant to the parks level of use. • Replace wooden picnic tables and consider installing additional tables closer to Mountain View Road. • Replace the blue stone stairs. • Locate seating throughout the reserve particularly around the sports field. Comment
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Attachment 1
In addition, the location of the building needs to be carefully considered in order to ensure that the bowling greens are not in shadow as this will create undesirable conditions for the surface which may result in algae and mould growing on the synthetic surface.
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Attachment 1: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan - Final Draft Report - Feb 2016
Whilst it is desirable to install recycling bins near the picnic shelter the viability of this needs to be considered in the context of the logistics of Banyule City Council’s recycling service. Council is currently preparing a Dumped Rubbish and Litter Strategy and recycling at reserves will be considered within this strategy.
2.2.9 Vegetation •
Attachment 1
• • • •
Increase planting across the reserve particularly along the railway line to enhance the bush corridor. Increase planting to create habitat opportunities particularly at the eastern end of the park. Retain the dead swamp gum at the eastern end of the park for habitat. Continue to work with the Friends of Petrie Park group and other interested community groups for revegetation works. Preserve the olive tree.
2.2.10 Other • •
Install interpretative signage (using QR codes) at strategic locations throughout the park to inform and educate park users about the history of the site. Where possible work in partnership with the community to ensure the design of future works provides an opportunity for creative/artistic input to reflect Montmorency.
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•
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2.3 Master Plan Design Rattray Reserve
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The following section provides a summary of the key directions identified for Rattray Reserve within the Master Plan following exploration of the issues and opportunities identified in the Technical and Consultation Report.
• • • •
Continue to work with Friends of Montmorency Bushland group and other interested community groups to continue revegetation works and weed removal works. Retain the bush character. Incrementally eradicate weeds. Continue to plant ground cover and shrubs.
2.3.2 Access and Egress •
Explore pedestrian access across private property from Allens Road to Rattray Reserve on a 12-month trial basis. This would involve negotiation and agreements with two land owners. • Provide an informal path/track between Rattray Road and Allens Road to service walkers (through slashing). • Construct a sealed footpath on the western side of Rattray Road. Comment There was mixed views during the consultation period in regard to the desirability of creating a connection between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. It was considered undesirable to create a connection for several reasons, firstly the only adjoining area where a connection could be considered is quite isolated and lacks casual surveillance which may present a community safety issues; secondly the challenging topography of Rattray Reserve does not allow a fully accessible pathway, particularly towards the upper western end and finally the sensitivities of the flora and fauna associated with this conservation area doesn’t support a thoroughfare into Petrie Park. The provision of an access point at Allens Road has been recommended on a trial basis (this will require negotiation and agreement with adjoining land owners as the access point will need to cross private property). A review is to be undertaken at 12 months in regard to the impact of anticipated increased use of Rattray Reserve on the environmental values of the reserve.
2.3.3 Fencing •
Remove existing fence within the site and construct a new post and rail fence along Rattray Rd along the front of the site. • Install bollards to define driveway entrance to adjoining property. Comment The relocation of the existing fence to the front of the reserve on Rattray Road will open up the reserve and will eliminate the separation between the front of the site and the rest of the reserve. The installation of bollards to define the driveway to the adjoining property will prevent people from parking within the reserve.
2.3.4 Other • • •
Council to undertake a study on the impact of dogs in reserves such as Rattray Reserve that are zoned ‘public conservation and resource’. Educate the community through appropriate signage and programs about the sensitivities of the reserve and the importance of picking up after dogs. Install interpretation signage (using QR codes) at strategic locations throughout the reserve to inform and educate reserve users about the history of the site and the vegetation and habitat that exists on site.
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Attachment 1
2.3.1 Vegetation and Habitat
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•
Attachment 1: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan - Final Draft Report - Feb 2016
Install natural looking seating in the reserve.
Comment There was some community concern in regard to the practice of allowing dogs off lead in a designated conservation zone. Given this is also the practice in other conservation zones across Banyule Council it is recommended that Council consider this issue more broadly and determine whether this is a practice which should continue.
Attachment 1
Until this is resolved, dog owners are to be educated about the sensitivities of the reserve and the importance of picking up after their dogs. This is considered preferential to the installation of bins and dog waste bags. The inclusion of water to this site was suggested however further discussion with Council’s Bush Crew has highlighted that this is unnecessary infrastructure as water is brought in on site as needed for planting days.
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2.4 Weed Management Priorities and Program for Rattray Reserve 2.4.1 Introduction
Attachment 1
A Weed Management Plan for Rattray Reserve (WMPRR) was part of the project scope. This section provides a summary of the WMPRR and the full plan is included in the Technical and Consultation Report. Rattray Reserve is dominated by native bushland and has been managed by Banyule City Council’s Bushland Crew for many years. It is a sloping site with a higher drier section to the north sloping down to Rattray Road to the south, still dry but with deeper soils. The condition of the vegetation is quite typical of sites in the Nillumbik Hills with its shallow nutrient-poor clay soils and is particularly influenced by the history of the site since European settlement. Council’s Bushland Crew has managed the site over their tenure by slashing firebreaks on most boundaries, conducting ongoing weed control and planted some shrubs. The current weed infestations are limited to some degree which is an indication of extensive works over time. Very few woody weeds are present and it is quite likely that more were present at the point of reservation however the bush crew has logically addressed these more substantial weeds first. Very few woody weeds remain but substantial groundstorey weeds remain to be addressed. Many groundstorey weeds remain as they are the most pernicious and difficult to control. They can also have the most substantial impact because all indigenous flora species, herbs to trees, must germinate on the soil surface and thick cover of groundstorey weeds can inhibit germination of many indigenous flora species and prevent the maintenance of bare spaces in between grass tussocks where delicate indigenous herbs and soil crusts occur. Once woody weeds are controlled in bushland then the more difficult issue of groundstorey weeds must be addressed and this reserve is at that stage after many years of good management work by the Banyule Bush Crew.
2.4.2 Developing a Weed Management Program and Conclusions The Banyule Bush Crew has likely eliminated much of the weeds in the site over time. However, as is typical in bushland reserves that were formerly grazed and disturbed over time there are many significant weed problems remaining. Controlling weeds is the most critical action for facilitating vegetation recovery as eliminating competition and creating ecological space for regeneration of indigenous flora is the most important task in restoring an ecosystem after disturbance. Determining an appropriate weed management program is the highest priority for management in Rattray Reserve.
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3 Implementation of Master Plan
The following section summarises an implementation plan with indicative costs of the recommended actions within suggested timeframes. Detailed probable costings for the implementation of the Petrie Park Master Plan can be found in Appendix 1 and for the Rattray Reserve Master Plan in Appendix 2. Funding opportunities and recommendations have also been identified in this section. It should be noted that the availability of funding from internal and external sources may impact the timeframes for implementation of elements of the master plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. Table 5.3
Estimated Costs and Timeframe for Recommended Works
Year
Item
Cost
Yr 1-4
Community building – possible consolidation of the bowling, scout and pigeon clubs into a single multipurpose building. Feasibility study, concept plans, community consultation, car park design and detailed building design.
$200,000
Yr 1-4
Sports pavilion - detailed design of internal modifications and verandah
$20,000
Yr 1-4
Sports pavilion - implementation of internal modifications and verandah
$200,000
Yr 1-4
Playground - increased shade with sail and tree planting, new vegetation barrier and seating
$45,000
Yr 1-4
Sports field - training lights
$200,000
Yr 1-4
Detailed design - Petrie Park pathing, footpaths (along Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve), crossing points, drainage and security lighting
$20,000
Yr 1-4
Petrie Park pathing, drainage and security lighting
$269,900
Yr 1-4
Pedestrian safety - 3 new vehicle slow points and cenotaph reshaping
$65,000
Yr 5-7
Pedestrian safety - footpath improvements along Mountain View Rd and Rattray Rd, including safe crossing points on Mountain View Rd and Bridge St
$147,525
Yr 5-7
Petrie Park planting - along railway line and eastern end
$7,000
Yr 5-7
Rattray Reserve – fencing/bollard works and natural seating
$9,130
Yr 5-7
Rattray Reserve educational signage
$5,000
Yr 5-7
Petrie Park - blue stone stair replacement
$20,000
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3.1 Introduction
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Attachment 1: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan - Final Draft Report - Feb 2016
Year
Item
Cost
Yr 5-7
Rattray Reserve trial access at Allens Rd - consultation and construction
$20,000
Yr 5-7
Community building - Council contribution towards construction of a new building
$1,000,000
Yr 5-7
Sports field - improvement works including installation of irrigation and drainage, conversion to warm season grass, fencing and new goal posts
$259,500
Yr 5-7
Playground - consultation, design and implementation of new intergenerational play experiences and exercise opportunities use of natural materials.
$105,000
Yr 5-7
Petrie Park tables and seating
$40,000
Yr 5-7
Interpretive signage - Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve
$35,000
Yr 5-7
Dog Study - investigation into impact of dogs in Banyule conservation zones
$15,000
Yr 8-10
Petrie Park public toilet - upgrade
$100,000
Yr 8-10
Levelling and improvements to grassed area between the picnic shelter and public toilets
$19,000
SUB TOTAL
$2,802,055
CONTINGENCY 10%
$280,205
TOTAL
$3,082,260
Based on the above, the estimated cost to implement all elements of the master plan including a Council’s contribution of $1,000,000 to the proposed multi-purpose community facility is $3,082,260 excluding GST. The proposed schedule of works would be re-evaluated annually with Council’s annual budget process and the priority of works may shift dependent on the availability of external funding. There are currently two state government and one federal government grant programs that Council may consider submitting applications for, for some of the works listed in the above implementation plan. These are: State Government Community Facilities Funding Program Major Facilities. The Community Facility Funding Program provides grants for planning and building new and improving existing facilities where communities meet, interact and participate in sport and recreation. The total amount available per application is $650,000. State Government Community Facilities Funding Program Minor Facilities. The Community Facility Funding Program provides grants of up to $100,000 to develop or upgrade community sport and recreation facilities. Council’s may submit three applications and could receive a total of $200,000 per funding round. Federal Government - National Stronger Regions Fund. This program sits in the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development. The Government is committing $1 billion over five years from 2015-16 for this competitive grants program to support the construction, expansion and enhancement of infrastructure across Australia. Council needs to demonstrate its commitment to the project through allocation of appropriate funds in Councils long term financial plans (capital works program). Most funding programs specify the
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Attachment 1
funding ratio contributions. In most cases Council needs to provide a minimum of 50% of funds – this could be via other external funding sources.
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Appendix 1 Indicative Master Plan Cost - Petrie Park
Attachment 1
This table highlights a likely order of cost at February 2016 for works suggested by the Master Plan for Petrie Park. Calculation of actual costs will require further design development of the Master Plan design elements. It should be noted that costs for the following element have not been included in the table below: Full construction of a new consolidated multipurpose community facility and associated car park have not been included in these estimated costings. Instead, a contribution of $1,000,000 from Council has been allowed for. Opinion of Probable Cost for Recommended Works at Petrie Park
ITEM 1
UNIT
RATE ($)
QTY
COST ($)
Playground
1.01
Intergenerational play experiences
$50,000
1.02
Exercise/play opportunities custom designed
$50,000
1.03
Trees and shade sails over swings
1.04
Seating on North West side of playground and eastern end of oval
1.05
Item
10
2000
$20,000 $20,000
1.07.1
Use of natural materials around playground Vegetation barrier between playground & road Level and grass the area between the picnic shelter and clubrooms 380m2 area. Cultivate site soil.
1.07.2
Supply and spread 133m3 of fill (190m3 is uncompacted volume).
m3
1.07.3
150mm depth imported topsoil.
m3
1.07.4
Seeding and maintenance of 3 months.
Item
2
2.01.1
Access and Egress Install raised walkways as vehicle slow points Childcare facility
Lm
12
$20,000
2.01.2
Memorial to playground
Lm
7
$20,000
2.01.3
Memorial to RSL
Lm
8.5
$20,000
1.06 1.07
2.01
2.02 3
3.01
Item
$5,000 $5,000
$500 $9,500 190
50
60
100
$6,000 $3,000
Reshape area around cenotaph
$5,000
Pathways Construct a 2 m wide path leading from Mountain View Road to the children’s centre, including demolition, disposal and sub-base preparation.
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Lm
80
300
$24,000
Attachment 1: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan - Final Draft Report - Feb 2016
2.1
Item: 2.1
UNIT
QTY
RATE ($)
3.02
Demolish asphalt paths from Mountain View Road to the oval (all paths north of roadway), including demolition, disposal and sub-base preparation. Construct a 2m wide concrete path
Lm
210
300
$63,000
3.03
2m wide reinforced concrete zig zag path near Mountain View Road, includes trimming, cutting, boxing out, crushed rock and reinforced concrete path.
Lm
110
300
$33,000
3.04
2m wide reinforced concrete path around the oval to Robert Street
Lm
183
300
$54,900
3.05
Detailed design of roads/park crossing points
3.06
Mountain View Road - Mayona Road to Bridge Crescent
Lm
3.07
Mountain View Road - Bridge Crescent to car park at Petrie Park
Lm
86
225
$19,350
3.08
Mountain View Road - Car park at Petrie Park to McFarlane Street
Lm
33
225
$7,425
3.09
Mountain View Road - McFarlane Street to Rattray Road
Lm
92
225
$20,700
3.10
Safe crossing point on Mountain View Road & Bridge Street
$50,000
3.11
Drainage
$25,000
Sporting Facilities Detailed design of internal modifications and verandah Redevelop pavilion within existing envelope
$20,000
4 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05
COST ($)
Attachment 1
ITEM
$20,000 70
225
$15,750
$140,000
Install bench seating in front of pavilion Install a verandah on the east side of pavilion Install training lights in accordance with AS2560 (50 lux)
$10,000 $50,000 $200,000
4.06
Convert to warm season grass & level
4.07
Install irrigation
$100,000
4.08
Install drainage, 3m spacing with sand slits
$100,000
4.10
Replace goal posts
5
5.01
5.02 6 6.01
$40,000
$8,000
Community Buildings Community building – possible consolidation of the bowling, scout and pigeon clubs into a single multipurpose building. Feasibility study, concept plans, community consultation, car park design and detailed building design. Council contribution to new building
Item
$200,000
$1,000,000
Parking Additional car parking to be considered within feasibility study (5.01)
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ITEM 7
UNIT
QTY
RATE ($)
COST ($)
Fencing
7.01
Remove pipe and rail fence
7.02
Install new fencing along roadway adjacent to path
8
Attachment 1
Attachment 1: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan - Final Draft Report - Feb 2016
$1,500 $10,000
Support Infrastructure
8.01
Install security lighting throughout the park and along the pathways
8.02
Upgrade public toilets
8.03
Replace wooden picnic tables
$20,000
8.04
Replace the blue stones stairs with DDA compliant steps
$20,000
8.05
Install additional seating throughout the park
$20,000
9
$70,000 $100,000
Vegetation
9.01
Increase planting along the railway line fence
$5,000
9.02
Increase planting to create habitat at eastern end
$2,000
10 10.01
Other Install interpretive signage (using QR codes)
SUB TOTAL (Excluding GST) 10% Contingency Sum
TOTAL (Excluding GST)
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$20,000 $2,703,625 $270,362
$2,973,987
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Appendix 2 Indicative Master Plan Cost – Rattray Reserve This table highlights a likely order of cost at February 2016 for works suggested by the Master Plan for Rattray Reserve. Calculation of actual costs will require further design development of the Master Plan design elements. Opinion of Probable Cost for Recommended Works at Rattray Reserve
ITEM
1.01
2
QTY
RATE ($)
COST ($)
Vegetation Plant ground cover & shrubs and remove weeds
Access & Egress
2.01
Access to Allens Road and negotiation and construction works.
2.02
Provide an informal path/track between Rattray Road and Allens Road to service walkers and dog owners (through slashing).
2.03
Prepare detailed design of footpath and crossing points on western side of Rattray Road to determine if viable
2.04
Rattray Park grassed frontage to Rattray Road
l/m
35
160
included within design work in Petrie Park costings 5,660
2.05
Rattray Park (private property driveway) to Robert Street
l/m
179
160
28,640
lm
120
24
2,880
lm
30
63
1,890
lm
140
24
3,360
3 3.01 3.02 3.03 4
associated
$20,000
Fencing Supply and install timber bollards at 1.4 metre centres. Demolition and removal of existing timber post and rail fence. Supply and construct a timber post and rail fence.
Other
4.01
Study into impact of dogs in conservation zones in Banyule
15,000
4.02
5,000
4.03
Install signage to educate about value of reserve & dogs Install interpretive signage (using QR codes)
4.04
Install natural seating
15,000 1,000
SUB TOTAL (Excl GST)
$98,430
10% Contingency Sum
$9,843
TOTAL (Excl GST)
$108,273
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Attachment 1
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2.1
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report Feb 2016
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SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd Adelaide ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 143
2.1
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
2a Mellor St West Beach SA 5024 Phone: +61 (08) 8235 0925 Fax: +61 (08) 8353 1067 Email: sa@sglgroup.net
Attachment 2
Brisbane PO Box 713 Mount Gravatt Queensland 4122 Mobile: +61 (0) 416 235 235 Email: queensland@sglgroup.net Melbourne Level 6, 60 Albert Road South Melbourne VIC 3205 Phone: +61 (03) 9698 7300 Fax: +61 (03) 9698 7301 Email: victoria@sglgroup.net Perth 19 Clayton Street East Fremantle WA 6158 Phone: +61 (0) 8 9319-8991 Mobile: +61 (0) 407 901 636 Email: gmcneill@sglgroup.net Sydney 1/273 Alfred St Nth North Sydney NSW 2060 Phone: +61 (02) 8011 0725 Fax: +61 (02) 8011 0720 Mobile: +61 (04) 17 536 198 Email: mking@sglgroup.net SGL also has offices in: • Auckland NZ • Christchurch NZ • Port Moresby PNG
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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Table of Contents 1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 1 1.2 Background to the Study ........................................................................................ 1 1.3 Project Objective ..................................................................................................... 1 1.4 Project Aims ............................................................................................................ 2 1.4.1 Project Opportunities and Challenges.................................................................. 2 1.5 Project Site Overview .............................................................................................. 2 1.6 Project Methodology ............................................................................................... 3 1.7 Previous Research Review ..................................................................................... 4 1.7.1 Banyule City Plan 2013-2017 .............................................................................. 4 1.7.2 Recreation Plan 2013-2017 ................................................................................. 5 1.7.3 Banyule Public Open Space Strategy 2007 to 2012............................................. 7 1.7.4 Active Reserves Study 2010................................................................................ 8 1.7.5 Sports Facilities - Capital Works Priority Plan Facility Review 2013 ..................... 9
2 Project Site Assessment .................................................................................. 10 2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 10 2.2 Review of Petrie Park ............................................................................................ 10 2.2.1 Vehicle Access .................................................................................................. 10 2.2.2 Pedestrian Access ............................................................................................. 11 2.2.3 Parking .............................................................................................................. 11 2.2.4 Sporting Facilities .............................................................................................. 12 2.2.4.1 Sports Oval and Pavilion................................................................................. 12 2.2.5 Community Facilities.......................................................................................... 13 2.2.6 Playground ........................................................................................................ 14 2.2.7 Public Amenities ................................................................................................ 14 2.2.8 Vegetation ......................................................................................................... 15 2.2.9 Site topography ................................................................................................. 15 2.3 Rattray Reserve ..................................................................................................... 15 2.3.1 Site topography ................................................................................................. 16 2.3.2 Access and Egress ............................................................................................ 16 2.4 Preliminary Site Assessment of Ecological Values ............................................ 17 2.4.1 Geology and Soils.............................................................................................. 17
Rattray Reserve ...................................................................................................... 18 2.4.2 2.4.3 2.4.4
Petrie Park......................................................................................................... 20 The Local Ecological Context ............................................................................ 21 Opportunities and Potential Design Components Summary............................... 21
3 Consultation and Community Engagement.................................................... 23 3.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 23 3.1.1 Council Officers ................................................................................................. 23 3.1.2 Bushland Crew – Rattray Reserve..................................................................... 25 3.1.3 Maternal and Child Health Centre & Montmorency Children’s Centre................ 25 3.1.4 Immunisation Session........................................................................................ 25 3.1.5 Montmorency Bowling Club ............................................................................... 26 3.1.6 Montmorency RSL ............................................................................................. 27 3.1.7 Montmorency Junior Football Club .................................................................... 27 3.1.8 Montmorency Cricket Club................................................................................. 29 3.1.9 Diamond Valley United Soccer Club .................................................................. 29 3.1.10 Diamond Valley Racing Pigeon Club .............................................................. 29 3.1.11 Montmorency Scout Group ............................................................................. 30
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1 Introduction and Background............................................................................ 1
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3.1.12 Pro-Active ....................................................................................................... 31 3.1.13 Slice of Life Fitness......................................................................................... 31 3.1.14 Eltham Calisthenics ........................................................................................ 31 3.1.15 Submission from Friends of Petrie Park .......................................................... 32 3.1.16 Friends of Montmorency Bushlands (FOMB) .................................................. 34 3.1.17 Eltham Historical Society ................................................................................ 36 3.1.18 Mums Group - Person 1.................................................................................. 36 3.1.19 Mums Group – Person 2................................................................................. 39 3.1.20 Person 3 ......................................................................................................... 39 3.1.21 Person 4 ......................................................................................................... 40 3.1.22 Person 5 ......................................................................................................... 40 3.1.23 Person 6 ......................................................................................................... 40 3.1.24 Person 7 ......................................................................................................... 41 3.1.25 Person 8 ......................................................................................................... 41 3.1.26 Person 9 ......................................................................................................... 42 3.1.27 Person 10 ....................................................................................................... 43 3.1.28 Person 11 ....................................................................................................... 43 3.1.29 Residents Via Facebook Page........................................................................ 43 3.2 Resident Consultation – Drop in Event................................................................ 44 3.2.1 Petrie Park......................................................................................................... 44 3.2.2 Rattray Reserve................................................................................................. 46
4 Issues and Opportunities................................................................................. 47 4.1 Key Issues and Opportunities .............................................................................. 47 4.2 Summary of Issues and Opportunities Petrie Park............................................. 47 4.2.1 Unstructured Recreation .................................................................................... 48 4.2.2 Access and Egress ............................................................................................ 48 4.2.3 Pathways........................................................................................................... 49 4.2.4 Sporting Facilities .............................................................................................. 49 4.2.5 Community Buildings ......................................................................................... 50 4.2.6 Parking .............................................................................................................. 50 4.2.7 Fencing.............................................................................................................. 51 4.2.8 Support Infrastructure ........................................................................................ 51 4.2.9 Vegetation ......................................................................................................... 51 4.2.10 Other .............................................................................................................. 51 4.3 Rattray Reserve ..................................................................................................... 51 4.3.1 Vegetation and Habitat ...................................................................................... 51 4.3.2 Access and Egress ............................................................................................ 51 4.3.3 Fencing.............................................................................................................. 52 4.3.4 Other ................................................................................................................. 52
5 Project Master Plans......................................................................................... 53 5.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 53 5.2 Petrie Park Master Plan Framework..................................................................... 53 5.2.1 Unstructured Recreation .................................................................................... 53 5.2.2 Access and Egress ............................................................................................ 54 5.2.3 Pathways........................................................................................................... 54 5.2.4 Sporting Facilities .............................................................................................. 54 5.2.5 Community Buildings ......................................................................................... 54 5.2.6 Parking .............................................................................................................. 55 5.2.7 Fencing.............................................................................................................. 55 5.2.8 Support Infrastructure ........................................................................................ 55 5.2.9 Vegetation ......................................................................................................... 56 5.2.10 Other .............................................................................................................. 56 5.3 Master Plan Design Rattray Reserve.................................................................... 56 5.3.1 Vegetation and Habitat ...................................................................................... 56
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5.3.2 Access and Egress ............................................................................................ 56 5.3.3 Fencing.............................................................................................................. 57 5.3.4 Other ................................................................................................................. 57 5.4 Draft Master Plans ................................................................................................. 58 5.5 Community Response to Draft Master Plan ........................................................ 61 5.5.1 Drop In Forum ................................................................................................... 61 5.6 Draft Master Plan Resident Survey Results......................................................... 62 5.6.1 Respondent Profile ............................................................................................ 63 5.6.2 Petrie Park......................................................................................................... 63 5.6.3 Rattray Reserve................................................................................................. 65 5.7 Weed Management Priorities and Program for Rattray Reserve ....................... 66 5.7.1 Introduction........................................................................................................ 66 5.7.2 Rattray Reserve Conditions ............................................................................... 66 5.7.3 Weed Species Present: Extent, Distribution, Ecology and Control Methods....... 67 5.7.4 Perennial Herbs with Bulbs or Corms ................................................................ 68 5.7.5 Perennial Grasses ............................................................................................. 68 5.7.6 Annual Grasses ................................................................................................. 69 5.7.7 Developing a Weed Management Program and Conclusions ............................ 69 5.7.8 Proposed Weed Control Program ...................................................................... 70
Directory of Tables TABLE 1.1 PROJECT METHODOLOGY ...............................................................................................3 TABLE 1.2 BANYULE CITY COUNCIL GUIDING OBJECTIVES ..........................................................5 TABLE 5.1 RESIDENT SURVEY RESPONDENT PROFILE ...............................................................63 TABLE 5.2 MAIN REASONS FOR USE OF PETRIE PARK ................................................................63 TABLE 5.3 TRANSPORT TO PETRIE PARK.......................................................................................64 TABLE 5.4 PETRIE PARK PROPOSED CHANGES ...........................................................................64 TABLE 5.5 PETRIE PARK PROPOSED ACCESS POINTS ................................................................64 TABLE 5.6 PETRIE PARK INCREASE FUTURE USE WITH PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS ..........65 TABLE 5.7 MAIN REASONS FOR USE OF RATTRAY RESERVE.....................................................65 TABLE 5.8 RATTRAY RESERVE PROPOSED CHANGES ................................................................65 TABLE 5.9 RATTRAY RESERVE INCREASE FUTURE USE WITH PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS ........................................................................................................................................................66 TABLE 5.10 PROPOSED ANNUAL WEED CONTROL PROGRAM ...................................................70
Appendices APPENDIX ONE: BANYULE WILDLIFE CORRIDOR APPENDIX TWO: PETRIE PARK DRAFT MASTER PLAN – OPEN COMMENTS APPENDIX THREE: RATTRAY RESERVE DRAFT MASTER PLAN – OPEN COMMENTS
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1 Introduction and Background
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1.1 Introduction Banyule City Council has commissioned this study to prepare a Master Plan to guide the future development of Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve in Montmorency. In January 2015 SGL Consulting Group Australia Pty Ltd in partnership with Practical Ecology and Michael Smith and Associates Landscape Architects and Urban Design were commissioned to undertake the development of the Master Plan. This report contains the background review and market research undertaken in the preparation of the draft master plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. The final master plan including the implementation plan and indicative costings is the subject of another report.
1.2 Background to the Study Petrie Park is a highly developed and heavily utilised recreation reserve, on which exists a sports field, a range of buildings and a substantial neighbourhood level family play space. Located to the south-east and almost adjacent to Petrie Park is Rattray Reserve. In contrast to the very active and highly patronised Petrie Park, Rattray Reserve has significantly less patronage and is classified as a piece of remnant bushland. There are several community groups, organisations, businesses and Council services that are based within Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. Some of the activities/groups include scouts, bowls, football, cricket, soccer, pigeon racing, group fitness training, calisthenics, community bushland management, maternal and child health services, gaming and ANZAC commemorations (and other associated activities within the Montmorency-Eltham RSL branch). Petrie Park in particular has many different and varied groups operating out of the facilities across a variety of times. Some of the groups have increasing needs and are looking to further develop or expand their facilities and/or times of use. Other spaces may not be used to their full potential. The completion of a master plan will allow for the identification of improved facilities and associated infrastructure as well as identify best use of facilities. The two reserves are not currently linked by any formal or informal access and are presently separated by one small block of privately owned land. The development of the master plan is to explore possibilities of providing a physical link between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve along with also required to identify improved access into and throughout both sites. It will also identify best use of active and passive open spaces offering a long-term plan for the entire precinct.
1.3 Project Objective To prepare a master plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Precinct to ensure the best outcomes for the community, with improved facilities, better linkages and access, and a long term sustainable plan for the precinct. The vision for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve is “Petrie Park/Rattray Reserve Precinct provides many opportunities for the community and provides for leisure, recreational and sporting activities in a safe environment�.
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Item: 2.1
1.4 Project Aims
Explore opportunities and determine the feasibility of providing a physical link between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve.
Determine whether it will be possible to accommodate the needs and aspirations for all tenant groups within Petrie Park.
Establish synergies amongst users at Petrie Park and provide for multi-purpose facilities and in doing so consider displacement challenges.
Protect the bushland integrity of Rattray Reserve and its fauna and flora.
Improve existing facilities and infrastructure to accommodate community needs appropriately.
Create an interesting location that contributes to the lifestyle opportunities and programs of the local community.
1.4.1 Project Opportunities and Challenges A list of opportunities/challenges for the site were identified and assessed through the project:
Multipurpose facilities to be shared by various groups.
Upgrade to existing community facilities to accommodate the needs of existing and/or new users.
Improved connections between the two reserves and the impact this has on residents, user groups, bushland management practices and resources.
Improved public lighting around the reserve and car parking areas creating a safe place for users.
Improved sports lights to allow for safe outdoor training.
Assessment of ground suitability for junior sport and if opportunities exist, adjust the sports field size to accommodate for a variety of sports and recreational pursuits effectively.
Improved off field functional open spaces to accommodate multi-use by community groups both competitive and non-competitive.
Improvements to parking and traffic management.
Improved landscaping and connecting pathways.
Improved communication amongst tenant groups.
Consideration for the possible displacement of existing users.
1.5 Project Site Overview Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve are located between Mountain View Rd and Rattray Rd, Montmorency. Petrie Park is a well-developed and heavily utilised recreation reserve, on which the following facilities are provided: •
Maternal and Child Health Centre
•
Children’s Centre
•
Montmorency/Eltham RSL
•
Community Hall
•
Sports oval (junior size) with concrete cricket wicket
•
Sports pavilion (small)
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Attachment 2
The following aims were identified in the project brief:
Attachment 2
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
•
Two lawn bowls greens (2 synthetic)
•
Montmorency Bowling clubrooms
•
Diamond Valley Pigeon Clubrooms
•
Montmorency Scout Hall
•
Neighbourhood level playground
•
Barbecue and picnic facilities
Located to the south-east and almost adjacent to Petrie Park is Rattray Reserve. Rattray Reserve is an area of remnant bushland covering approximately 1.9 hectares. The reserve is made up of two Ecological Vegetation Communities, Box-Stringybark Woodland and Valley Grassy Forest, and contains over 150 indigenous flora species. It has limited through traffic and is bounded by the rear fences of residential properties on three of its four sides.
1.6 Project Methodology The methodology was used to undertake the Master Plan was based on two inter-related stages and is detailed in the following table. Table 1.1 Project Methodology STAGE Stage One: Needs Assessment and Analysis
1. 2. 3.
TASK Project Clarification
DETAIL The consultant team met with the Project Manager to confirm the agreed methodology, and project timeframes.
Review Existing Documentation Internal Consultation
A review of relevant documentation was undertaken. A workshop was held with relevant Council staff to discuss key issues and opportunities as well as any other information that will impact on the future direction and provision of services at Petrie Park/Rattray Reserve. The project team met onsite with Council Officers to undertake a detailed site assessment and audit of the reserve.
4.
Site Assessment and Audit
5.
Field Surveys
A site assessment was undertaken to collect information on existing conditions including flora, fauna habitat, scattered trees, vegetation types and zones and suitable management practices for the site.
6.
Public Submission
7.
Community Drop In Stakeholder Consultation Stage One Summary Paper
Residents and groups submitted written comments in relation to the future development of the Reserves The consultant team held a community drop in event at Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Interviews were held with each of the tenant and interest groups.
8. 9.
A summary paper was prepared of all tasks and findings from Stage 1 including issues and opportunities for discussion and exploration.
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TASK 10. Component Schedule
DETAIL Following the findings of Stage 1 a priority components schedule for the Master Plan was developed.
11. Master Plan Draft Concept
A draft master plan using an aerial photograph as the base was prepared for review and comment by the Project Management Group.
12. Building Components Schedule 13. Resident Survey 14. Community Drop In
A components schedule of a multi-use community facility was developed.
15. Revised Draft Master Plan 16. Cost Estimates 17. Prioritised Recommendations & Costings and Funding Options 18. Draft Report 19. Public Display Revised Draft Master Plan 20. Final Report
An online resident survey was developed and distributed to identified residents A community drop in event was held to provide residents the opportunity to comment on the draft master plan Following feedback from user groups and residents a revised master plan was prepared. Pre design opinion of probable costs was developed for the plan. A prioritised list of recommended development options and staging and funding opportunities was prepared.
A draft report was prepared. Based on the review of the draft Master Plan relevant feedback received was incorporated and a final master plan prepared which is the subject of a separate document. Following client feedback, a final master plan report was completed.
1.7 Previous Research Review The following summarises the range of project reports and previous studies that were reviewed to identify key issues and recommendations which may influence the development of a Master Plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. The following reports were reviewed: • • • •
Banyule City Plan 2013-2017 2013-2017 Recreation Plan Banyule Public Open Space Strategy 2007-2012 Sports Facilities - Capital Works Priority Plan Facility Review 2013
1.7.1 Banyule City Plan 2013-2017 The Council Plan includes the goals, outcomes and strategies which will guide Council 2013 to 2017. There are five interlinked strategic objectives – People, Planet, Place, Participation and Performance. The Banyule City Plan’s relevance to the Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plans is through the People objective and the key direction to promote and support health and wellbeing. Other impacting strategic objectives are outlined in the table on the following page.
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2.1
STAGE Stage Two: Master Plan Development
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Attachment 2
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2.1
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Table 1.2 Banyule City Council Guiding Objectives Banyule City Plan Objective People Planet Place Participation Performance
Objectives that guide Petrie Park/Rattray Reserve Master Plan 1.1 Promote and support health and wellbeing 2.5 Act as environmental stewards 3.1 Maintain and improve Banyule as a great place to live 3.4 Enhance Banyule’s public open spaces 4.2 Encourage diverse and inclusive community participation 4.4 Provide outstanding communication and customer service 5.1 Develop and deliver best value services and facilities
Attachment 2
1.7.2 Recreation Plan 2013-2017 The Recreation Plan includes a four year action plan which sets key directions and priorities for sport, leisure and recreation facilities and services. The vision for Recreation in Banyule is: “To create a safe, healthy and inclusive community by encouraging people to actively participate in a diverse range of recreational opportunities to improve health and wellbeing.” Through the research and consultation process several key themes were identified: • Community Events and Festivals • Outdoor Spaces and Playgrounds • Accessibility and Inclusion • Access to Facilities • Environment and Sustainability • Participation • Awareness of Programs and Services Goal 1: Opportunities for All Banyule will have affordable, accessible and inclusive opportunities for the whole community to participate in a variety of activities. • Support clubs and community groups to become more inclusive. • Continue to support and provide sport and recreation opportunities for our diverse communities. • Upgrade Council’s facilities to be accessible and ensure new facilities are built in accordance with the relevant Building Codes (BCA 1428). Action • Continue to advocate and implement a schedule of works specifically targeting access issues at Council’s recreation and leisure facilities, including public open space. Goal 2: Environmental Sustainability Banyule will be a source for community groups and sporting clubs to gain knowledge, ideas and funding opportunities to become more sustainable. • Advocate for improved and increased recycling opportunities at recreational club facilities. • Implement a range of sustainable programs, practices and initiatives for Council sporting facilities and public open space. Action • Continue to implement water harvesting projects to enhance the future of green parks and sporting grounds. Goal 3: Participation and Community Connection Banyule will strengthen community connections with a variety of groups to create a wide range of opportunities for participation. To achieve this goal we will: • Provide opportunities for the community to connect on a local level.
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• Develop park activity centres and regional playgrounds within the municipality. Action • Adopt and implement the Playground Strategy (draft) which includes a schedule of works for the redevelopment of existing infrastructure, rationalization of existing playgrounds and the construction of supporting facilities such as shade, seating and toilets. • Work with Parks and Gardens to deliver an appropriate number of fenced off dog parks (other than sporting grounds)in Banyule including awareness programs to educate dog owners on the use and maintenance of such facilities but also educate on the use of active sporting reserves. • Advocate for greater opportunities for the community to engage in physical activity. Action • Investigate opportunities for alternative sports and recreation in less structure capacities.
2.1
Item: 2.1
Banyule will be proactive in maintaining and upgrading Council’s wide range of sporting facilities. To achieve this goal, we will: • Ensure existing and future sport and leisure infrastructure is renewed, upgraded, maintained and operated to meet the needs of the community. Action • Seek funding to undertake an audit of all sports field lighting for compliance with Australian Standards including the development of a Sports Field Lighting Policy. • Adopt and implement the Recreation Facilities 10 year Capital Works Priority Plan and further investigate the current recreation facilities audit on gaps in the priorities. • Continue to improve and upgrade our shared trails and bike paths. Action • Continue to work with Parks Victoria, Bicycle Victoria and neighbouring Councils to develop; partnerships for the upgrade of bike tracks and shared trails in Banyule. • Provide a diverse range of sporting facilities across Banyule. Action • Support the installation of outdoor fitness equipment and alternative sporting infrastructure in open spaces. Goal 5: Informing the Community Banyule will have quality communication processes with the community and Council partners, and empower our community groups and clubs to govern effectively • Support clubs and community groups to become more sustainable and of high quality. • Provide information to our clubs and groups around Council process.
1.7.3 Banyule Public Open Space Strategy 2007 to 2012 This strategy provides a strategic framework to help guide Council’s decision making in relation public open space for the next five to ten years. This framework and the recommendations of the Strategy are based on a vision for public open space and a set of key principles, which relate to a wide range of relevant issues from environment protection and enhancement to the development of quality community facilities and infrastructure. Council manages over 600 hectares of public open space and Parks Victoria managers a further 285 hectares of parklands within Banyule. The Strategy also includes a precinct by precinct analysis of public open space in Banyule and related issues as well as a planners’ guide. Relevant recommended actions from the Banyule Public Open Space Strategy include: 1. Internal and External Consultation - Ensure that the community is consulted and all relevant Council departments are involved.
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Attachment 2
Goal 4: Facilities
2.1
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
2. Diversity of Need- In planning public open space, give consideration to the diverse needs of the various groups in the community 3. Social Interaction - That appropriate public open space be identified for developing “park activity centres” which cater for large groups and provide diverse facilities for social and cultural activities and events, including activities for older adults, children, teenagers and other family members and enhance usability for all members of the community, by including appropriate ancillary facilities, such as paths, seating, shelters, drinking fountains etc.
Attachment 2
In addition to principles and recommendations, the strategy also assessed public open space by precinct. Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve are located within the Montmorency Precinct. Below is the assessment of public open space in the area. Montmorency - Access to Parks and Reserves Amount of Public Open Space (parks and reserves) 13.7 hectares. Comparative level of provision (a) Access to parks and reserves. From a quantity perspective Montmorency is well catered for with public open space. It has over 13 hectares of local and municipal level parks, as well as direct access to a further 59.2 hectares of parklands along the Plenty River Corridor. This effectively means that the residents of Montmorency have access to 8.16 hectares per 1000 residents, which is significantly above the standard quantitative benchmark of 1 hectare per 1000 people. Montmorency also has direct access to the Plenty River Trail which in turn is connected to the Main Yarra Trail and consequently the broader Metropolitan Trails Network. Open Space Issues Infrastructure in many of the neighbourhood (local) parks needs to be upgraded and expanded. Much of the park infrastructure is old. • Access between two of the area’s major parks, Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve, is currently blocked by one residential property. Consideration should be given to placing a compulsory acquisition overlay on that property. • There is a need to review opportunities for improving open space in this precinct. • The need to manage bush land, which is included in public open space throughout this precinct, for its conservation values, as well as for recreation. • Lilies, orchids and other indigenous plants in Montmorency bush land reserves (Wooded Way, Belmont Reserve, Rattray Reserve, etc) should continue to be protected.
1.7.4 Active Reserves Study 2010 The purpose of the study was as follows: •
Optimise the usage of Banyule’s active sporting reserves to meet the community’s needs by developing an active reserves strategy outlining optional ground capacity and determining the most suitable activity for each ground.
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Develop a process for determining the carrying capacity of active sporting reserves in Banyule to ensure Council’s active sporting reserves are used to their optimal capacity whilst ensuring their long term sustainability for the future.
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Ensure a fair and equitable allocation process for Council’s active sporting reserves whilst also ensuring the most appropriate sport or activity is allocated to the most suitable active sporting reserve in Banyule.
In relation to Petrie Park, the study found that based on actual usage in winter 2010 that Petrie Park has low use with 8 hours of use per week and that based on the reserves condition at that time that it was only suitable for low use. Since this report was prepared use at Petrie Park has significantly
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
increased as a training venue for junior sport in the winter and for competition and training for junior cricket in the summer. The playing surface is fully irrigated.
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The short term maintenance works identified for Petrie Park included aeration and herbicide. The long term maintenance works identified for Petrie Park was to promote existing warm season grasses. In addition to the above, the report made the following comments in relation to training strategies that could be used by all clubs.
•
Conduct rotating repetitive drills and activities on different areas of the sports field to minimise high traffic area wear (e.g. goal squares, centre corridor, in front of the pavilion).
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Avoid training on weak areas - once damage has occurred, it is often irreparable, and more easily damaged to beyond repair.
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Use the entire sports field rather than small areas.
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As soon as one area starts to show signs of wear, shift the training to another area so that the area can recover.
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Avoid shots at goal from the same point; move around to spread the wear.
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Do not use the main turf wicket for cricket training.
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Rotate the practice cricket wickets to avoid irreparable damage to both the run-ups and the creases.
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Avoid training on a wet surface or during wet weather as any damage will likely be greater and often irreparable.
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Avoid running around the boundary line - move in and out on different nights.
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Where limited lighting exists, use other areas during the daylight savings period that are not normally used.
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Where possible conduct activities off the sports field.
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Utilise lighting around the entire sports field to assist spreading wear.
1.7.5 Sports Facilities - Capital Works Priority Plan Facility Review 2013 Council has developed a capital works priority plan following a review of sports facilities across Banyule. Petrie Park was not assessed using the matrix assessment system developed and therefore has not yet been included within this plan. Petrie Park was recorded as TBA – To be advised.
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Clubs need to adopt strategies to reduce on-ground usage to limit surface damage. The following were recommended:
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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2 Project Site Assessment
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2.1 Introduction SGL in association with Landscape Architects Michael Smith and Associations and Practical Ecology undertook a detailed site assessment of the Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve during February 2015. The assessment identified the key opportunities and constraints under the following key headings: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Vehicle access Pedestrian access Roadways and pathways Fencing Car parking Lighting Sporting facilities Community facilities Unstructured recreation facilities Public amenities Vegetation and landscaping Site topography
2.2 Review of Petrie Park Petrie Park developed as a site of contrasts in terms of character and function and is well utilised with a range of good (Community Hall) to fair facilities (Scout Hall).
2.2.1 Vehicle Access Petrie Park is accessed by vehicles from Mountain View Road at the west end of the park. The park is elevated at the west end with a considerable slope on the asphalt access road. The site shares parking spaces to either side of the road therefore making parking somewhat difficult. The lack of pathways sometimes causes traffic issues as pedestrians may use the road for access.
2.2.2 Pedestrian Access Pedestrian access is possible from multiple entry points to the park. There is a steep path into the reserve from Mountain View Road at the west end of the park on the northern side of the roadway. This asphalt path stops just past the sporting pavilion. There is a concrete path on the southern side of concrete pedestrian path which stops midway around the south side of the oval.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Pedestrian issues include no safe crossing points between the playground and the cenotaph or the RSL. There is not a continuous path on the southern side providing safe pedestrian access to the Maternal and Child Health Centre and the Montmorency Children’s Centre.
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2.2.3 Parking There are various parking areas within Petrie Park servicing the facilities located within the park. The park has several formed parking areas of approximately 35 cars each (with a total capacity of 30 cars, plus 5 disabled spaces). There is car parking located at the vehicle entrance of the reserve on both sides of the road way. This area primarily services playground and picnic area users as well as those attending children’s facilities. This parking is set out as 90 degree parking.
There is parallel parking available on the northern side of the roadway commencing from the playground area and down towards the sport oval.
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Attachment 2
Pedestrian access is also available from Ripper Street on the south side however there is no defined pathway. The same is true from Robert Street at the Eastern end of the park.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Parking to the rear of the Montmorency-Eltham RSL Club and Community Hall is quite steep and visibility for both motorists manoeuvring and pedestrian accessing cars and buildings is poor.
Attachment 2
This car park also services the Maternal and Child Health Centre and the Montmorency Children’s Centre.
2.2.4 Sporting Facilities There are a range of sporting facilities within the park including a sports field and a bowling club. These are summarised as follows: 2.2.4.1
Sports Oval and Pavilion
There is a junior sized oval with a synthetic cricket wicket and a single training light. The oval is serviced by a small pavilion. The oval surface is worn in places and the surface is uneven. The goal posts require painting and those located at the eastern end were bent. The oval has irrigation. There is minimal seating amenity for spectators and the general presentation is poor, particularly at the east end.
The playing field has a very sub-standard surface given the growing conditions over the past twelve months has been favourable for turf grasses. There is a mix of bare areas and grass cover of kikuyu, poa, fescue and winter grass. It appears Capeweed may have been recently herbicide sprayed. There is a pipe rail fence in poor condition on part of the southern side of the oval.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Montmorency Bowling Club The Montmorency Bowling Club consists of two synthetic bowling greens and an older style club house at the eastern end of the facilities.
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2.2.5 Community Facilities There are five community facilities at Petrie Park and these include: 1. Community Hall The community hall is owned and managed by Banyule City Council and in good condition. The hall consists of a hall, stage, toilet, kitchen facilities and storage. There is a viewing platform outside the hall used by the RSL for Anzac Day services. The hall is used regularly by: • • • •
Eltham Calisthenics Group Pro Active Outdoor Group Training Zumba Classes Banyule Council for immunisation sessions 2. Montmorency Eltham RSL The Montmorency Eltham RSL is a two storey brick structure located on the south side of the driveway into the reserve. The RSL incorporates dining areas, gaming machine area, meeting rooms and amenities.
3. Montmorency Children’s Centre and Maternal and Child Heath Centre The Montmorency Children’s Centre and Maternal and Child Health Centre are brick structures approximately 50 years old that are in good condition. There is a fenced playground as part of the children’s centre which was a former kindergarten facility.
4. Petrie Park East Pavilion
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Pedestrian access from the northern side of the bowling club is via a steep ramp that is not compliant with DDA standards. There is also rear vehicle access to the clubrooms via a steep driveway which is in very poor condition.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Petrie Park East Pavilion is home to the Diamond Valley Racing Pigeon Club. The single level brick structure is basic and is approximately 50 years old.
5. Petrie Park Scout Hall The Petrie Park Scout Hall is owned by Scouts Victoria. The building which is approximately 50 years old is a wooden structure and is in very poor condition.
2.2.6 Playground
The relatively new playspace (approximately 4 years old) has a large range of equipment and play choices allowing a large number of children with access to play on equipment simultaneously. The playground is a district level playground catering primarily to younger children. There is limited afternoon shade over the playground.
2.2.7 Public Amenities A brick toilet block is set across the slope just above the playing field.
There is a picnic shelter with four tables and a separate table outside of the shelter. An electric barbeque is located within the shelter. Drainage is required on the west side of the shelter. There is an amphitheatre of scalloped bluestone pitchers to the west end dropping down from
Mountain View Road. Lighting throughout the park is limited with no security lighting at the eastern end of the park.
2.2.8 Vegetation
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The other trees such as the Eucalyptus spathulata (Swamp Mallet) at the western end are from Western Australia. Eucalyptus sideroxylon (Iron bark) on the mid slope is indigenous to areas nearby, such as Hurstbridge and Christmas Hills. There is a large dead swamp gum located at the eastern end of the reserve.
2.2.9 Site topography The site is hilly and steep running downhill from west to east.
The Montmorency to Eltham railway line as a single line runs parallel to the park’s northern boundary. There is a relatively steep grassed embankment leading up to the rail reserve. Erosion has occurred close to the rail bridge of Mountain View Road.
2.3 Rattray Reserve Rattray Reserve is located on Rattray Road in Montmorency and is approximately 1.9 hectares in area. The reserve has varied terrain with a crown toward the west end then sloping down to Rattray Road. It supports scattered Eucalypts, mainly Yellow Box, Red Stringybark, Long Leafed Box and some River Red Gums to the lower section near Rattray Road. To the upper area, there has been a recent controlled burn and there is considerable regeneration of Wallaby grass and other indigenous phorbes.
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The park has a range of native trees, and notably is Eucalyptus melliodora (Yellow Box) an indigenous species of which there are a number of significant-sized specimens, particularly located to the railway line edge. There is several Eucalyptus polyanthemos (Red Box) that are also indigenous to the area. There is a large olive tree 18m x 18m to the south-west corner.
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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There are a number of tree clumps and fallen branches that are protected from slashing of weed grasses. These clumps provide opportunity for native grasses and phorbes to grow. There were minor occurrences of Vinca major and Opuntia elatior minor occurrence.
2.3.1 Site topography The site is hilly and steep running downhill from west to east with a flat section adjacent to Rattray Road.
2.3.2 Access and Egress Access is limited to entry from Rattray Road. There is evidence that there is desire for people to access Rattray Reserve from Allens Road as is evident from regularly broken fences and preparedness of the land owners in Allens Road allowing residents to enter their properties to allow access to the reserve.
.. There is a driveway into the reserve to provide private access to the residential property located on the northern side of the reserve on Rattray Road. This is a dirt road which is also used by Council vehicles for maintenance.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
2.4 Preliminary Site Assessment of Ecological Values
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This section was prepared by Practical Ecology and summarises the ecological values of Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve in Montmorency. The specific values of each reserve have been considered, as has the ecological context of the reserves in the local area and region. The assessment methods used included a literature review and a site inspection. The site inspection undertaken was to provide a general overview of the values of the reserves, with more detail to be provided in subsequent stages.
The geology of both reserves and the local area comprises sedimentary rocks of Silurian age as the geology map below illustrates.
The Silurian rocks were laid down over 450 million years ago and have been uplifted and leached of nutrients over the millennia since then. The soils are usually dominated by clay, sometimes with gravel intermixed, very low in nutrients and bed rock is often close to the surface on dry hilltops and slopes. Soils are deeper on lower slopes where soil has slumped. In local river and creek valleys there are richer deeper soils deposited by streams in the last million years but these more fertile soils do not occur in either reserve. The nutrient poor soils are essential to recognise in the way they support native vegetation and the significant limitations they impose on any ornamental plantings proposed. It is important to use local indigenous flora appropriate to the original vegetation types to ensure planting success. Any ornamental planting must consider improvements to soil texture and nutrients to be successful.
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2.4.1 Geology and Soils
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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Source: Geological Survey of Victoria (1981). Yan Yean Map Part 7922 Zone 55 Rattray Reserve Rattray Reserve is dominated by bushland and already managed by Banyule City Council’s Bushland Crew. It is a sloping reserve with a higher drier section to the north sloping down to Rattray Road to the south, still dry with deeper soils. The Council’s Bushland Crew has managed the site by slashing firebreaks on most boundaries, conducted ongoing weed control and planted some shrubs. It is clear that the indigenous vegetation was disturbed in the past: 1. There are very few large old trees and smaller trees that have likely regenerated in the last 50 years dominate the site. 2. The shrub layer is sparse with little species diversity. 3. The understorey is dominated by native grasses and a scattering of indigenous herbs with many exotic grasses, mostly annual, mixed in. These conditions suggest that land was likely selectively cleared in the past and used for grazing before being made a bushland reserve when this area of Montmorency was subdivided. Despite the past disturbance of the native vegetation it is recovering well and would be recognised by most people as reasonable quality bushland. The vegetation is mapped as Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC) 22 Grassy Dry Forest, which is usually dominated by Long-leaf Box Eucalyptus goniocalyx and this tree is certainly common in the bushland in the reserve. However, the presence of two eucalypts more typical of EVC 46 Valley Grassy Forest, Red Stringybark E. macrorhyncha and Candlebark E. rubida, would indicate that the lower slopes in the reserve would more likely have Valley Grassy Forest. This variation from large scale mapping is typical because the complexity of real sites is hard to predict when mapping EVCs on a wide scale as DSE did to develop the layer.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Source: DSE’s Biodiversity Interactive Mapping – Map created on 29 January 2015 There are some weeds present in the reserve including: •
Agapanthus *Agapanthus praecox
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Large Quaking Grass *Briza maxima
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Cocksfoot *Dactylis glomerata
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Panic Veldt *Ehrharta erecta
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Kikuyu *Pennisetum clandestinum
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Ribwort *Plantago lanceolata
These are all groundstorey weeds that are difficult to control because natural regeneration of native groundstorey flora must be facilitated to replace these species and the past disturbance won’t necessarily have left good conditions for such regeneration. The Kikuyu is limited in extent but can be an “ecosystem transformer” so should always be removed as a high priority in bushland. The lack of shrub weeds is probably a good indicator of the ease of removing such weeds for bush crews and their removal has helped reduce fuel loads. Public consultation indicated that there was concern about dogs being let off lead in Rattray Reserve and being allowed to run within its fenced boundaries. This can easily have an impact on any wildlife present as dogs will disturb many native animals and even cause native animals to avoid areas where they have been. Dog and human traffic may also be trampling indigenous plants. Use of the reserve by dogs off lead may also be causing concern for the safety of reserve visitors without dogs. Banyule City Council does have the latitude within their local laws to ban dogs within areas of environmental significance but there will often need to be practical works like fences in some cases to help facilitate different zones for dog management. A possible approach to reconcile dog use and environmental protection will be presented below. Rattray Reserve is reasonable quality bushland that needs good management over time to reduce weed cover and expand indigenous flora diversity. Perception of fire risk, existing to some degree but often over imagined for small bushland reserves in urban contexts, is always a factor to manage around and using firebreaks on the edge as access tracks can achieve two aims at once while minimising impacts on vegetation.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
2.4.2 Petrie Park This park is mostly cleared of native vegetation with several buildings used by community groups and interspersed with play and sport infrastructure. In among the buildings, lawns and oval there are many trees, mostly indigenous and/or native with a few exotic ones planted near the buildings. Trees are common around some of the buildings and provide shade and amenity but provide little opportunity for any habitat above the mowed lawns. As is typical in the poor soils of the Nillumbik Hills some of the grass cover in the reserve is native, such as Weeping Grass Microlaena stipoides, but is limited in extent because of past disturbance.
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The edge of the reserve along the railway corridors has the most ecological values as the sometimes steep embankment has scattered trees and some areas of indigenous understorey. The following pictures illustrate the edge on the railway:
Mulch around the dead indigenous in the northeastern corner with weedy Desert Ash Fraxinus sp. coming up, likely from the mulch.
The far northeast corner of Petrie Park with a large Yellow Box E. melliodora along the railway line.
More Yellow Box in between the football oval and railway line.
The embankment along the railway line with large eucalypts and indigenous understorey.
There is a good deal of open lawn in the reserve that could be replanted with tree cover for habitat and amenity in balance with other uses. If removing and replacing buildings is considered the opportunity should be taken to protect the larger trees in areas distant from buildings. The greatest opportunities for habitat management and enhancement is along the railway line where it could contribute to the linear habitat corridor along the line although a framework of indigenous trees across all areas of the reserve would be good for habitat in the local area. The EVC map presented above indicates that Valley Grassy Forest might have occurred near the reserve and along the railway. This makes sense as Petrie Park includes lower slopes and a gully broadened and flattened for use as an oval. The remnant Yellow Box and other trees are possible indicators of that EVC but there are few other diagnostic species left to be conclusive.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
2.4.3 The Local Ecological Context The introduction to the Vegetation Protection Overlay for the Plenty River East Area including Montmorency in the Banyule Planning Scheme, i.e. Clause 1.0 Statement of nature and significance of vegetation to be protected, describes the local situation very well:
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The continued viability of the area as a significant environmental resource is under threat from the continued urban development of the area. Many areas of vegetation have been lost or radically altered, despite tree protection covenants in the most recently subdivided areas. The remaining areas of native vegetation have become increasingly fragmented and their habitat value is threatened. Accordingly the protection of the native vegetation and maintenance and enhancement of the habitat for indigenous fauna are of vital importance. The Montmorency area is like many other areas of eastern Melbourne where areas with bushland or remnant trees were subdivided into small lots with the idea that conservation of some of the bush or the indigenous canopy was possible over time. Unfortunately time shows that conservation of remnant eucalypts in urban contexts is difficult and Montmorency is an excellent case study. When only house occurs on a block the remnant trees are often retained but blocks are mown and no natural regeneration occurs and as trees age they are removed. When the demand for units in an attractive suburb like Montmorency starts and the planning scheme generally allows them then trees become even rarer on private land. Both reserves are also part of the larger recognised habitat corridors across Banyule as the Banyule Habitat Corridor Strategy recognised as shown in Appendix 1. Two significant factors come together to indicate that habitat protection and management in both reserves is a priority, among other objectives of course. The reserves are part of a larger system of habitat corridors in Banyule and are nodes along the linear corridor along the Hurstbridge rail line. The increasing pressure on habitats on private land in Montmorency mean that habitat on public land will become more important over time.
2.4.4 Opportunities and Potential Design Components Summary Both Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve represent to some degree important remnants of native vegetation and linking habitats in the local area. The bushland in Rattray Reserve is by far the most significant patch in the local area. The area along the rail line in Petrie Park represents an existing and potentially enhanced habitat corridor of local significance. With these and other ecological issues considered the following recommendations are provided: • • •
Protect remnant indigenous trees wherever possible in Petrie Park when considering new infrastructure. Consider replanting indigenous vegetation around remnant indigenous trees in Petrie Park and extend corridors of native vegetation between Rattray Reserve and the rail line if possible. Restore and regenerate the embankment along the rail line as the highest priority for indigenous vegetation restoration in Petrie Park because of the local habitat corridor, the lack of conflict with other uses and the opportunity to enhance the amenity of the park.
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This area contains developed and developing urban areas which have significant natural, habitat and environmental qualities. In recent studies the area has been identified as including areas of State, Regional and local faunal and habitat significance. It includes predominantly residential areas supporting substantial remnants of indigenous vegetation of at least local conservation significance, providing habitat for a variety of native birds and arboreal mammals threatened with local extinction. The native vegetation is also recognised as a major contributor to the landscape of the area, its distinctive local character and visual amenity.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Consider separating out use zones in Rattray Reserve and creating new connections within the reserve and to Petrie Park. Creating a path from the entrance off Rattray Road and along the east side and up the slope creating better access from Allens Road to the corner of Petrie Park and fencing it off from the rest of the reserve could create the opportunity to create a different management focus. Fencing off a track along the edge would create connecting access and a firebreak all at once while creating a dog free area where flora and fauna conservation could be the primary management objective.
Attachment 2
The follow plan indicates one possible approach:
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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3 Consultation and Community Engagement
The following section summarises the consultation undertaken. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Detailed consultation was undertaken with the following groups. Council Officers Maternal and Child Health Centre & Montmorency Children’s Centre Montmorency Bowling Club Montmorency Junior Football Club Montmorency Cricket Club Diamond Valley United Soccer Club Diamond Valley Racing Pigeon Club Montmorency Scout Group ProActive Personal Trainer Slice of Life Fitness Friends of Montmorency Bushland Montmorency Community Group Friends of Petrie Park Two community drop-in events were held on Saturday 21 March 2015 (one in Petrie Park and one in Rattray Reserve). Public submissions and written comments received.
It should be noted that residents who provided input into the consultation process have been deidentified for privacy purposes.
3.1.1 Council Officers Key comments and considerations are listed below following meetings with relevant Council Officers held on the 10 February 2015. Traffic Management, Parking and Pathways • Traffic statement / parking surveys – 5 • Car parking continues to be an issue. • Entry into and out of the site can be difficult. • Playground used as a pick up zone for school kids because of parking and access difficulties around St Francis Xavier Primary School. • Increase safety and physical access with lighting and pathways • Speed management within the reserve is of concern • Pedestrian access between buildings on site is of concern • There is a possibility of a bike path connecting Plenty River to Diamond Creek Trail • Possibility of developing walking, cycling track along with railway line • If access is provided to Rattray Reserve, should it be dogs on lead only? • Public Liability – pathways and lighting required • Playground – needs barrier between road and playground for safety reasons Community Facilities • RSL currently seeking 15 or more gaming machines and have submitted a planning permit application. They need more gaming machines to increase club financial viability.
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3.1 Introduction
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•
More information has been requested from the RSL by Council on the application. This will then be publicly advertised and may result in a need to increase site parking by 5 or 6 more car spaces. • Complaints from residents along the back wall of hall and RSL – noise reducing options th th st th • The Community Hall is used for 16 , 18 , 21 , 30 , fundraisers, football clubs, trivia – security is always used. • Petrie Park – already heavily used, consider relocation of some of the groups • Scouts and Pigeon Club – smaller groups could be easier to move • Emergency Relief Centre space – biggest issue is we break out • Computer access is required if the Community Hall was to be used as an Emergency Relief venue. Sports Facilities • Junior and female participation in junior sport is growing • Consider redeveloping the oval • Consider redevelopment of the sports field change rooms to support increased use based on increasing needs for junior sport in Banyule. • Auskick and Montmorency Cricket Club are current users • Increasing use in future / sportsground / lighting / general reserve lighting • Historically the tennis club wanted to expand courts into Petrie Park at Roberts Street end Vegetation and Landscaping • There are significant trees in the eastern end of Petrie Park • Increase environmental values at Petrie Park Cultural • Anzac Day Parade – over 1,000 people attend • School Carols by Candlelight held in Petrie Park • Interest in cultural event on site – to meet needs of north Other • Interface with railway line • Stormwater harvesting survey completed 2008 • No boosters – water flow water servicing • Stormwater modelling • Consider age-friendly city protocols • Potential for public art • Demographics have changed – further increase in population
3.1.2 Bushland Crew – Rattray Reserve The consultation identified: • Need to ensure that the conservation aspects of the reserve are maintained and improved. • If path is required for connectivity to Petrie Park, ensure the maintenance budget is increased so it can be adequately maintained. • If path is desirable, ensure that it is a soft material (such as granitic sand) and via a route that least disturbs habitat. Bordering the reserve on the north site would be preferred. • Interpretative signage should be incorporated in the Reserve to educate the community about the history of the site and the habitat values of the Reserve.
3.1.3 Maternal and Child Health Centre & Montmorency Children’s Centre The consultation identified: • The Maternal and Child Health Centre is a double unit and operates full time. • The centre is viable in its current location. • There are designated parking spaces for the nurses however on occasion the delivery trucks to the RSL block them in. • The Montmorency Children’s Centre is an underutilized facility. (It was a former kindergarten facility). • This space is licensed to independent playgroups including Try Australia, Multiple Births Association and 2 private closed playgroups.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Try Australia operate Occasional Cere on Wednesday from 8.30am-12.30 and Fridays 8.30am-2.00pm. The new mums groups use the centre on a Wednesday afternoon. The groups like the natural looking environment and have a focus on redeveloping the play space to a natural play space however there is currently no budget for this. Signage is required at the top of the hill with information about the Children’s' Centre. People are reporting that they don't know that the Centre is located within the park.
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3.1.4 Immunisation Session th
The consultation identified: • • • • • • • • • • •
Difficult to walk to immunisation with a pram Often use the carpark at drop-off and pick-up times for school No pedestrian crossing at Bridge St and yet lots of kids cross there. Huge hill is an obstacle and path doesn’t make sense Petrie Park is not very accessible from the top going down. Exercise equipment would be handy Enjoys going to exercise classes in the park and mothers group Not enough shade around playground, oval and general surrounds Toilets at the playground aren’t the best Better drink fountains would be good Need places to tie up dogs that are in shade and near water near the playground – some dog owners dog keep dogs off the playground area
3.1.5 Montmorency Bowling Club The consultation identified: • The Montmorency Bowling Club occupies the facility under an over holding lease since 1998. The last lease ran from 11/1/1993 – 11/1/1998. • The Montmorency Bowling Club is the largest affiliated club in the area with approximately 250 members made up of 90 women and 156 men. Membership has been stable over the last three years. They are one of the few clubs that have a viable women’s section and the women are represented on the Board. • The facility is used almost seven days a week during the bowling season.
• • •
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Monday 11.30 am-5.30 pm - Competition
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Tuesday 9.00 am- 3.00 pm - Mid week pennant
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Wednesday 12.30 pm-5.30 pm - Social Competition
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Thursday 10.00 am – 3.00 pm - Ladies Social Competition
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Thursday 4.00 pm-6.00 pm – Practice
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Friday 5.00 pm- 9.30 pm – Barefoot bowls
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Saturday 10.00 am- 5.00 pm Competition
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Sunday – Club Championship/Social bowls
The club is fully responsible for all aspects of their operations including replacement of the synthetic greens when required. All members’ fees are invested in the club facilities for the benefit of the members. The club is open to the possibility of a multi-purpose facility but needs to ensure that only members can access the clubrooms and the greens from a security perspective. They would happily share meeting rooms, toilets etc. One option considered was a two storey facility on the northern side of the greens which would house the bowling club on the top and the scout group and pigeon club below.
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Attachment 2
Consultation was undertaken during the immunisation session held in the Petrie Park Hall on 27 February 2016 between 10am – 11am.
Attachment 2
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
If a multi-purpose facility is not possible, the club will investigate the option to extend in the rear or put on a second story over the existing clubrooms.
Issues • The current facilities are old and require significant redevelopment e.g. toilets and kitchen facilities require updating. • There is no meeting space. • The office is too small. • There are no shower facilities which deter members from participating when it is hot or they go straight home after a match instead of showering and staying to enjoy the club activities. • The clubrooms face west over the two greens which makes them hot in the summer and difficult to watch afternoon matches taking place on the greens also located to the west of the clubrooms. • The green at the eastern end is two metres short which means they can’t bowl both ways thus increasing wear. • The rear of the facility is poorly maintained. • Car parking is often an issue on competition days.
Future needs • The club will continue to require vehicle access to the greens.
3.1.6 Montmorency RSL The consultation identified: • The Returned & Services League of Australia (Victorian Branch) Inc (as Trustee for the Montmorency RSL Sub-Branch Building Patriotic Fund) own their building and occupy Council owned land in Petrie Park under lease. The current lease is from 1/1/2011 to 31/12/2016. • The RSL also have a licence agreement over the viewing platform for exclusive use of this area five days per year. This licence is current from 24/4/2012 – 31/12/2016. • The RSL provides function space, bistro, bars, pokie machines and meeting spaces. The Heidelberg and Eltham RSL’s now use the Montmorency facility as their base. • The club operates 7 days a week with the busiest times being Friday and Saturday nights. Functions are only run on a Saturday night. The building has capacity for approximately 600 people. • In 1983 the RSL built the rear car park which is available for all users within Petrie Park. • The RSL have plans to slightly expand the existing footprint of the building (still within their leased area) and undertake internal modifications to the building. • There are also plans to increase the number of pokies machines by 15 however this is the subject of a planning permit application before Banyule City Council at the time of writing this report (March 2015) • The RSL use underneath the pigeon club for storage. Issues • There are concerns about the safety and compliance of the bluestone stairs which provide rear access to the RSL and from the top car park to the Community Hall. These stairs are very slippery in the winter and when it is wet. • There are safety concerns with regard to the speed of cars coming into the reserve. The existing speed humps are ineffective. Many children and parents cross between the playground and the cenotaph to view the fish. This area also has a blind spot for cars exiting the rear car park and could be remodelled in order to increase safety, The RSL have developed a plan to address this by reducing and reshaping the area around the cenotaph.
3.1.7 Montmorency Junior Football Club The consultation identified: • There are approximately 400 junior players including 3 girls teams • The club use the ground as a secondary training facility to their primary facilities at Para Road and Simms Road, particularly now that Simms Road has been developed.
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• • Issues • • • • • •
Petrie Park is used primarily for 8-12 year olds on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 4.30-7.30pm. 10 teams x 20 children in each team. −
3 x U9’s
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1 x U 10’s
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3 x U 11’s
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2 x U 12’s
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1 x U 13’s
Club have experienced significant growth in female participation from 1 junior team in 2012, to 3 under age teams in 2013 and now fielding 2 senior team and 3 underage teams in 2015. Parking is reasonable. They use the area near the pigeon club.
They did not use the training light in winter – a single light whilst adequate is limiting. The lock to turn lights on is very high and is quite inaccessible. The surface is not great – it is patchy and hard. There is no storage at the venue – coaches had to bring equipment each session. There was no access to the change rooms – children had to use the public toilets. The ground is not used for match play because it is not suitable – competition requires a better surface and possibly a larger ground.
3.1.8 Montmorency Cricket Club • • •
Montmorency Cricket Club use Petrie Park for Friday night competitions for juniors including U10’s and U 12’s. The junior section of the club has grown from five teams in 2008 to 12 teams in 2014. The facility is not used for training as there are no nets. There is no access provided to club rooms and as the sports ground is very small it is used as the sports ground of last resort.
Issues • •
Change rooms not made available. The existing change rooms do not include any kitchen facilities so parents are unable to make a drink. Hot and cold running water would be desirable. More car parking is desirable
3.1.9 Diamond Valley United Soccer Club The consultation identified: • The Diamond Valley United Soccer Club have used Petrie Park in previous winter seasons as a secondary reserve from their home ground which is Partingtons Flats, but have not been granted an allocation for Winter 2015. • The ground is a suitable ground for juniors • Car parking at Petrie Park is fine Issues •
The sportsground lighting is inadequate
3.1.10 Diamond Valley Racing Pigeon Club The consultation identified: • The Diamond Valley Racing Pigeon Club have occupied the facility under an over holding lease since 1998. The last lease ran from 1/1/1993 – 30/9/1998. They have operated for over 50 years. • There are four clubs who have combined to share the facility.
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Attachment 2
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
2.1
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These are:
• • • •
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Issues • • • • • • •
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Diamond Valley
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Greensborough
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Plenty
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Heidelberg
These four clubs make up approximately 40 people The pigeon racing season is July – November each year The group meets each Thursday night from 6.30 pm-10.00 pm for basketing and setting clocks. They also meet on Saturday afternoons from 2.00 pm-10 pm to present clock and get results
Mobile phones don’t work in the building because of the tin roof The club run an aerial out the door as they set the clocks electronically Better ventilation is required The loading bay could do with repair People park both sides at entrance near the RSL and this area can become congested People cross from one side to the other and this is a safety concern particularly on Thursday night and Saturday night. Parking is an issue on Saturday afternoons when bowling is on and there are cars parking on the nature strips.
Future facility requirements • • • • • •
The group is open to sharing facilities in the future The size of the current facility is adequate The floor needs to be substantial Access is required for a tray truck to pull up to the facility Parking needs to be in close proximity to the venue as members are carrying baskets of birds to and from the car park and many members are elderly. Kitchen and toilet facilities would be required.
3.1.11 Montmorency Scout Group The interview identified: • The Montmorency Scout Group have occupied the facility under an over holding lease since 1998. The last lease ran from -/10/1994 – 30/9/1999. The facility itself is owned by Scouts Victoria. They have operated for over 50 years. • Two years ago this scout group was considering closing, however strong efforts have been made to attract new children into scouting. There are currently 30 youth members. • The current scout group have been joined with the Lower Plenty group but will return to Petrie Park in Term 2 2015. • Cubs operate on a Tuesday evening and Scout on a Thursday evening. • The groups use the oval for games and have used the trees in the park for some activities. • The scouts group hire their hall out to training organisations and other groups during the week and receive an income for this. Issues • •
There are security issues as there is no security lighting at the back and side of the hall. The hall is in poor condition and needs upgrading.
3.1.12 Pro-Active The interview identified:
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
This personal trainer usually has a group of about 10 people and uses the Community Hall in Petrie Park in the winter. His group training sessions are held Monday and Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings. In the summer he operates from Westerfolds Park. Whilst the government is investing in health and fitness there are rarely any undercover places to exercise. An undercover area of about 3-4metres from the sports pavilion would be suitable. The hall at Petrie Park suits his needs but can be a bit small if there are more than 10 people in the group.
2.1
Item: 2.1
The interview identified: • Slice of Life Fitness has operated a personal training business from Petrie Park for more than four years. Classes run on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 8.30am and Friday mornings at 9.30 am. There is also a Thursday evening class at 7.00pm. • The water pipe fence is used as a stable area to lean on during classes however bollards or other stable structures such as seating would be equally as useful. • The reserve suits current needs Issues • • • • • •
The sporting oval is usually wet from watering in the morning and so the class uses the area near the pigeon club. They sometimes train near the playground however the drainage is bad near the covered picnic area particularly when there has been heavy rain. Parking can be an issue on a Tuesday morning when bowling is on. More trees could be planted to increase the shade throughout the park and improve the physical appearance of the reserve. The playground needs shading More seating is required around the reserve
3.1.14 Eltham Calisthenics The interview identified: • The Eltham Calisthenics Group uses the Community Hall four times a week and has used the hall for over forty years. • The hall is used every week for calisthenics at the following times: − Monday 4.30 pm-8.30 pm − Tuesday 7.00 pm-10.00 pm − Thursday 4.30 pm-10.00 pm − Saturday 9.30 am- 2.30 pm • There are approximately 100 members • The hall meets their needs Issues • • • • • • •
The light globes on the stage need replacement Query whether the power points on the stage are safe Improved with heating and cooling and has improved over the years On occasion the contract cleaners have not been in to clean hall after a function. Where this has occurred Council has waived the hire fee for that week. Parking is not good particularly when parents are collecting their daughters from the later classes, especially the 8.00 pm class and on Friday nights. Would like their name on the entrance signage into the reserve (have used the hall for 40 years)? Would like to make more use of the hall but the hire fee is prohibitive and the booking process is a barrier to increasing use at short notice.
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Attachment 2
3.1.13 Slice of Life Fitness
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
3.1.15 Submission from Friends of Petrie Park The submission identified: • Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve are the lungs of Montmorency - a green space in the middle of a road locked suburb. • Petrie Park retains some environmental and heritage qualities from its early days as a farm. Photographs dating from the 1960s show the bowls Club under construction and how the old road into the Petrie's farm became the driveway used today. Early photographs also reveal the thick canopy of trees in Rattray Reserve. The vegetation in this reserve continues to provide important habitat and aesthetic and environmental amenity for local residents. • Banyule's vegetation protection overlay has ensured that the vista from Mountainview Road down through Petrie Park remains largely unchanged since the 1960s when Petrie Park was first acquired from the Petrie family by Council, and managed by a volunteer Committee of local residents. • Petrie Park is used by fitness groups, children's football and cricket clubs. It is also used by large numbers of people for passive and individual recreation, such as walking, picnics, children's playground and dog walkers. • Petrie Park is a safe place for families with young children and a popular place for parents and their preschool and primary age children to meet in after school drop off and pick up. Many children's parties are held at the bbqs on weekends. Children also enjoy riding down the grassy banks of the bowling club on pieces of cardboard. • Cyclists use Petrie Park and Robert Street to get through to Eltham and Greensborough and to access the Diamond Creek and Plenty River Trails. • Many commuters use Petrie Park as they walk to and from the nearby train station. • With increased subdivision in our suburb the tree canopy is being significantly reduced, which makes our bushland reserves and opens spaces all the more precious as aesthetic and visual passive spaces for residents to enjoy and also preserve important habitat for insects, birds and our native mammals. Subdivision has led to an increased population and more impermeable surfaces; therefore it is crucial we retain the environmental values of our suburb so that our increased population, with smaller gardens and green spaces, have open spaces and bushland to enjoy. • After a decade of drought, and the loss of understory, many mature remnant trees have died. Bollards and chains round the lower carpark have rotted and there are no rubbish bins. The Robert Street end of the Park now looks unkempt and untidy. Litter is often left on the ground in this area. • However a project to regenerate and preserve the remnant vegetation in the park will create a space of beauty, and encourage native fauna. • Petrie Park could be the green hub of our suburb. Montmorency does not have a community house or meeting space. It’s our community heart. It needs to be preserved and nurtured. The Friends of Petrie Park wish to advocate strongly for the following: Enhance existing environmental and heritage features: • • • • • • • •
Remnant farmland and bush in Petrie Park to be preserved as open parkland. The understory in Petrie Park to be increased, and more large trees to be planted especially along the train line in order to extend the Montmorency Habitat Corridor. The restoration of a habitat corridor in a suburban context is exciting and forward thinking. Mulch and understory to be planted under the 250 year old swamp gum, which has now died. Tree to be lopped to alleviate risk of large limbs falling. Retain as much of swamp gum as possible for nesting habitat. Possibility of interpretive sign to communicate to community the significance of the tree, and the creek that it used to grow beside. (NB: Friends of Petrie Park have already committed to the planting project.) Preserve original farm planting - the large olive tree up near Mountain View Road. New Interpretive signage to communicate the history of Petrie Park. Continue to enhance the park for passive users. At present the park is safe for children from one end to the other but increased traffic and parking will change this. No more infrastructure. Mr Petrie always intended that one third of the park would be for amenities and the remainder for open space.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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Item: 2.1
Improve existing infrastructure: • • •
Create adequate terracing on the slope above the playground and picnic area so that mulch and stones do not wash into these areas after rain If the pigeon club building is to be demolished, construct a shed or shelter for community use as a garden and tool shed for community planting days or festivals Reinvigorate and utilise the bluestone amphitheatre on the slope up from the playground.
•
•
•
The pedestrian access from Mountain View Road is poor. The two paths are narrow and then they converge and it drops steeply down to the playground area. It's difficult coming up the current path with a pram, on a bike, even walking for those less able and extremely difficult for those in a wheelchair. The footpath along Mountain View Road next to the Park is also appalling. It affects how people access and get to the park and whether they feel comfortable walking/cycling or feel they have to drive. It is narrower than the standard footpath, yet heaps of kids and parents make their way along it each day to and from St Francis Xavier Primary School. The "nature strip" next to these footpaths is also very narrow and hence it's unsafe for pedestrians as cars zoom along the road. Also the train bridge crossing may need guard fence along the footpath/road interface. There is no permanent safe crossing for Mountain View Road, which would be highly beneficial for connectivity between Petrie Park and the station/shops precinct. The school crossing further north is obviously only staffed during school times and not weekends.
Ideas for improved access to Petrie Park: • Construct a pedestrian friendly path along Mountain View Road wider than standard footpaths as it's a high use area. A wide path which is colourful and has landscaping will act as an entrance and welcoming invitation into Petrie Park. • Install a guard fences along the train bridge. • Construct a permanent pedestrian crossing for Mountain View Road, at the location where the trail enters/exists Petrie Park (there are currently gutter indentations for crossing). Also investigate broadening the footpath along Binns Street down to the shops/station. • The trail that leads from Mountain View Road down to the playground, then around past the toilets stops at the road next to the oval. This path could be continued around the edge of the oval to provide an off road pedestrian and bike connection to Robert Street. • Improve pedestrian/bike access from the end of Ripper Street, widening the entrance and then once inside Petrie Park, finding a way to connect to the trail around the oval, without having to use the road/carpark. Maybe bike lanes from Rattray Road down Ripper Street to the Park? Signage on Rattray Road pointing down Ripper Street to say pedestrian/bike access to Petrie Park is down there? • Allow for future trail connection from Petrie Park to Rail Trail. (a proposed route has been developed by a resident and was submitted for consideration with the master plan process.)
3.1.16 Friends of Montmorency Bushlands (FOMB) The submission identified: •
Friends of Montmorency Bushlands (FOMB) group is made up of 45 local residents who enjoy nature study in Rattray Reserve- birdwatching, identifying unusual plants, insects etc and nature photography.
•
Groups of 6 to 30 members attend working bees 3-4 times per year- mainly to remove weeds to allow native plants to regenerate. The group also undertake planting throughout the reserve and remove litter.
•
Residents of adjoining properties look out on pleasant bushland.
•
People walk their dogs along dirt track.
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Attachment 2
Notes about improved access to Petrie Park:
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Walkers get exercise in the fresh air, away from hard concrete footpaths and young people sit under large trees to socialise.
Attachment 2
What FOMB value about Rattray Reserve •
It is a nature reserve.
•
Its location: As an urban reserve, it provides easy access to native flora and fauna in an urban setting - a very precious asset to Montmorency.
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Protects remnant trees indigenous to area- Woodland box/Stringybark.
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Habitat – shelter and food source for native wildlife.
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Biodiversity.
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Rattray Reserve is listed as part of Banyule’s Wildlife Corridor- essential part of habitat links.
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Future potential- Council has long term plan for the restoration of the Rattray Reserve to its natural state, through species regeneration, assisted by planting.
•
Upkeep costs are minimal.
•
It is a secluded peaceful area away from noise, pollution and traffic dangers.
•
Rattray Reserve is generally clean, quiet and safe - no snakes, not enough weed infestation to create refuges for foxes and other feral species. Littering and vandalism rates are low, no bushfires reported going back 15 years, even in drought years. Being surrounded by houses makes it safer, not less safe- residents see what is happening there.
•
Community involvement- work of volunteers in conjunction with Bush Crew. Over the past 12 years, regular working bees have been held to clear weeds and revegetate with local species. Now almost free of invasive weeds, replaced by hundreds/ thousands of new plants, creating a bushy screen along the top and a grassland of ground cover plants and grasses. Any problems reported to Council- neighbour members keep an eye out.
•
Nature reserves are good for health of the community and for all ages.
What FOMB want in the master plan •
More recognition for Rattray Reserve and its importance as a significant nature reserve, providing habitat for a range of species and as a link in wildlife corridor across Montmorency. -E.g. more signage, listing on Council website, with photos etc, promotion to residents to educate the community about the function of this reserve.
•
Continued planting of ground cover plants and shrubs; consult with Bush Crew re planting of middle-storey to bring back a more balanced ecosystem.
•
Consider the future of the vegetation in the long run, consider the replacement of eucalypts as many are in poor health.
•
Investigate the practicality of a small ephemeral watercourse dependent on runoff diagonally across upper section where reeds are already growing- water source for birds, perhaps more plant species would grow and insects attracted.
•
Retain dead trees and some of the logs from fallen trees on site for habitat.
•
Install water sources adjacent to or just inside the reserve, to enable watering of plants when small/ young.
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Encourage visitors to the reserve, but for the right purposes, consistent with its function.
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If approved by Bush Crew, small school groups could be engaged in educational activities based on the reserve.
•
Perhaps some rustic seating for walkers to rest and to enjoy the surroundings.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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Interpretive signage, highlighting it’s (and Montmorency’s) flora and fauna values.
•
Encourage adjoining neighbours to grow indigenous species.
2.1
Item: 2.1
What we don’t want Direct public access from top of Rattray Reserve to Petrie Park. We believe these adjacent Council properties should not have direct access, because their functions are totally different. Access would lead to: − − − − −
•
Increase in dog numbers- with anticipated detrimental environmental effects, e.g. dog poo, noise. Dogs off leash. This would be contrary to the purpose of the Rattray Reserve. It is not designed for domestic animals to roam, but for native fauna. Unwanted activities such as littering, graffiti and vandalism would increase- they are very prevalent around this suburb but so far Rattray Reserve’s seclusion has protected it. The advantages that current residents and visitors enjoy e.g. safety, peace, quiet and natural surroundings would be affected. If a path was created along the perimeter fence, residents of adjoining properties would be affected by having it along their rear fences- privacy, trespass and safety concerns may arise.
A new path built to connect Rattray Road and Petrie Park − − − −
Would downgrade the status of Rattray Reserve as a conservation area. Would need maintenance – would be washed away because of the slope. Difficult for walkers because of steep slope- better route is along Rattray Road to Wellington Street or along Allens Road- (consider new entrance from Allens Road) Bike riders would take advantage of any access path, causing further damage to vegetation, soil compaction and erosion (slopes are less of a concern to some bike-riders than walkers) - likelihood of riders going off the path.
•
The extension of activities from Petrie Park into Rattray Reserve - e.g. parking or sporting, playground or picnic facilities- or any other kind of infrastructure. Earthworks or building of hard surfaces.
•
This is a very small and fragile reserve, which cannot afford to lose any of its area.
•
In effect, the already small land area of Rattray Reserve would be reduced if any of it was sectioned off for a different purpose from what Rattray Reserve is there for. Even building a pathway would do this. If reduced in size, it would lose its viability as a nature reserve.
•
Related earthworks would ruin the topsoil and involve removal of vegetation.
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FOMB has worked in Rattray Reserve for 12 years- on the understanding that Rattray Reserve is an area for nature conservation only and that their work is not spoiled.
3.1.17 Eltham Historical Society • • • • • • • •
Henry Petrie owned the land – donated it to Eltham Shire, granddaughter still lives in Nillumbik. In 1968 – evidence shows Scouts and Pigeon Club were there. The ‘Henry Petrie Community Centre’ was also there. 1970’s – foundation was being laid for future hall. There was a hall in Rattray Rd (derelict) and the RSL took it over. Pigeon Club was once in between Were St and Station St, they dismantled their building, picked it up and moved it to Petrie Park. Cows used to graze on Petrie Park. Bowling Club was originally designed to be more forward towards the hall. There were plans for an amphitheatre at the Robert St end car park.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
3.1.18 Mums Group - Person 1 The interview identified:
Attachment 2
My family would visit Petrie Park twice a week on average. It’s the closest park to our home and walking distance. It seems to attract plenty of families with babies, toddlers, preschoolers and only gets heavily used by primary kids at the end of the school day. A lot of families seem to meet their primary age kids there for collection. As it is also the closest park to Were St village shopping strip it is convenient for people who have done their shopping and promised their kids some play time in the park afterwards. The proximity of the Maternal and Child Health Centre, the shops, Petrie Park’s centrality in Montmorency - all these things make it a meeting point for families. Several people I know, myself included, have made lasting friendships with other families met at the play equipment there. What do you like about it? The play equipment is the key drawcard for the regular visits. The MCHC is now secondary. That is has toilets is great, but the toilets themselves are not that great. There are no baby change facilities. I’d rather use my station wagon’s boot. That it has a shelter nearby is helpful in winter. The play equipment has tanbark put down regularly which I appreciate. There is some variety in play styles and suitability for several age groups. I don’t think the park overall is as attractive or inspiring as it could be but for the above reasons it’s my regular. My other favourite local park… When I have time to go to Alistair Knox Park in Eltham, that’s a much friendlier playspace than Petrie, and has more charm. Wombat Bend in Templestowe / walkable from Lower Plenty is great too. If you go to Petrie Park primarily for the playground, what do you like about it specifically? There is nothing especially dangerous or evidently out of date as there is in other nearby parks in Briar Hill and the western park at Eltham Lower. The equipment has weathered well. There is an OK variety of equipment for different ages. I really appreciate the high-backed toddler/baby swing with the proper three point harness- it’s very well used and has given my daughter great confidence in the swing. The multiple ways to climb up to and over the bridge, and the bridge itself are great, well used. And it’s the closest playground to home. About Petrie Park as a site, what would you like to see changed or improved, if anything? The picnic shelter: If this ran along the rail line it would not block the long view to the rest of the park. The BBQs seem looked after but it would be good to have a sign for how long each stays on for (15mins, we learned after the sausages took ages to cook). Some kind on semi-opaque window in the roof would let in more light. Picnic tables: good number - they all get used. In fact sometimes they get staked out at 6.30am in the morning for kids’ birthday parties. Toilets: More natural materials other than heavy ugly brick would be good. Even corrugated iron and timber, hayshed like, with a floating roof and clean or tiled walls, with good light, baby change facilities, accessible facilities. Car parking: seems adequate though given how many of us are opening doors to strap in babies and kids they are very, very narrow. The steepness of the car park combined with the narrowness of each car park slot invites unwitting car damage from neighbouring cars’ swinging doors. Dog walking, I welcome dogs in the park on a lead though some I know would prefer the play area fenced off.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Rubbish Bins: Near the shelter is great though one could have recycling to encourage sustainable practices.
2.1
Item: 2.1
Parking and paths: I appreciate being able to park my car nearby if needs be, though the uneven paths are hard work with a pram, let alone more than one kid in a pram. My 74-year-old Mum finds it a tenuous journey down those paths when hanging onto a pram. Steep and uneven.
If there was a walking path between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve, we might use because we enjoy walking the neighbourhood, but we have no particular need for it. About the play equipment, what would you like to see changed or improved, if anything? The current equipment does the trick but it does look a bit tired and out of date, so this seems a good opportunity to provide something well considered and new. This is an opportunity to expand the kinds of equipment on offer for a spread of age ranges: the ‘just walking’ / toddler / 3-4 year old. sets. This would be great as kids’ skills and interests change so rapidly. It’s wonderful to find the piece of equipment that challenged your child and helps gives them something safe but testing to encounter and practice. And if this is your local park you’ll be visiting through all of these stages, week in week out. I guess the primary kids might like something more challenging too though as they attend school and likely enjoy other after school activities their options are far greater and time spent there would perhaps be less than those of us with preschool age kids. For us the visit to Petrie Park can be THE event of the day, especially when kids are very young. The slope of the park could be leveraged in a creative slide or good looking landscaping. Instead it just looks dry, raw and under attended. Good landscaping could offer better seating for parents, a clear view of the play equipment from a few sides, and low, wide, flat wooden seating can double as picnic tables - see those at Alistair Knox in Eltham. A place to sit / prop / chat / feed snacks to your kid. What do you want from Petrie Park now / from the masterplan? I think this is a tremendous opportunity to make Petrie Park a creative, vibrant, attractive and wellloved destination rather than just the most convenient park we have in Monty. There are few others at all, let alone others that compete. Make it colourful, clever, charming and user friendly for all ages. Great design is not necessarily costly to achieve. Don’t give us the same stuff but brand new and expect us to be excited. People love Monty because it has a village feel, lots of trees, birdlife, friendly neighbours, hills and vistas. Lots of people have solar cells on their roof. Consider the demographic and interests of those most likely to be using Petrie Park and use materials, concepts and designs that are likely to inspire the outdoor activity of those people. How does Petrie Park make you / your family feel? It feels safe and visibility is good. The trains are far from a disturbance; the kids get excited and like to wave to them as they pass by. There are no dark or dangerous zones, though I wouldn’t say I feel safe in the toilet block - it’s just not very appealing. In summer it’s baking hot, the ground dry and cracked. The paths are easy to trip on as they are so uneven. How do you want the Park’s upgrade to make you/your family feel? Or, what qualities should it possess, positive or negative?
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Attachment 2
Landscaping: Right now it looks as if the person who designed Petrie Park ticked the relevant boxes, plonked stuff where it would fit and quickly paved a path between road and playground. There is little cohesion or sense of design. It doesn’t say: gorgeous Monty, trees and hills and charm, which a lot of Monty is. And it’s what so many of us live here; what the locals love about it. Trees and birds and views. It desperately needs shelter. Any child in the swing faces the western sun in summer- you just roast there after 25 degrees. Sail cloths would be greatly appreciated as an immediate solution, plus trees for visual appeal, natural shade and longer term benefit.
2.1
Item: 2.1
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
I want to love it. I want to say to my friends, ‘you’ll love coming out to Monty to visit me because we have the most fantastic park. It inspires the kids to be adventurous and try new things so they never get tired of it and neither do I’. The RSL and more Poker machines
Attachment 2
I find the idea of more pokies nearby repellent. Does anyone really think they contribute anything worthy to anyone except those who own them? They are insidious and provide a lazy and shallow idea of recreation and entertainment. The fact the RSL wants them is their choice, but they are located in a family friendly park and the RSL is the only pub for miles. Why don’t they want to embrace more of the community? If they need to earn extra money they should set out an external access café for the families who visit the park and recreation facilities and show themselves to be community leaders, not drainers of the last 5c from the pockets of our elderly and less educated. Gambling is not known for its social benefits. Our community deserves better. A list of fantastic, inspirational playground ideas: See Monstrum, a Danish group; their ideas concerning what constitutes play blows most playgrounds out of the water. http://www.monstrum.dk/en TinyMe’s collection of great playgrounds listed recently: http://www.tinyme.com/blog/10-ridiculously-cool-playgrounds-part-5/ More realistically perhaps, see these awards for great public playgrounds from KidSafe http://www.kidsafensw.org/playground-safety/2012-awards/ http://www.kidsafensw.org/imagesDB/wysiwyg/PublicPlayspaces500k-1m_1.pdf I love the idea of a slide like this from almost Mountain View Road into the new playground: http://www.kidsafensw.org/imagesDB/wysiwyg/PublicPlayspaceslessthan500k_1.pdf The pod Playground at the ACT National Arboretum, It features acorn cubbies at various heights that are connected by rope tunnels and tube slides as well as climbing nets for younger children and banksia cubbies with music-making activities. http://www.nationalarboretum.act.gov.au/visit/highlights/pod-playground And finally I’ve attached some photos from the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens which won a kidsafe award in the last few years. We visited recently and it was brilliant. It uses local motifs and reflects these in the play equipment: oak leaves and trains, while providing plenty of options for every age group. The high-roofed, light-filled picnic shelter was based on an old market design and there was a sign with simple, clear interpretation and an illustration of the original model. Lots of landscaped, flat seating areas and textured plants. Squishy rubbery path fabric meant easy travel with a pram and safe running for kids.
3.1.19 Mums Group – Person 2 The interview identified: • A big focus on agility equipment that is natural looking e.g. the mounds that kids have to run up to get to the slide (like at butterfly park at Lower Eltham or Wombat waterhole in the Kidsafe awards doc), logs to walk/run along that aren't perfectly cut and sanded, less plastic and more wood, love the wooden cubby type houses on stilts • Easy access to water tap that works. • Install a flying fox. • Somewhere to tie the dog up on the outskirts of the park would be helpful. • Toilet facilities a must, with easy pram access. • A flat area with basketball/netball ring and space to safely play on little kid’s scooter/bike (not skate park), or maybe a few little tracks to ride on that link parts of the park. Other parks I like: wombat bend, Lower Eltham, Ruffey Lake playgrounds x 2, Possum Bend Park Heidelberg.
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3.1.20 Person 3 •
There have been problems with people jumping and cutting fences over the years.
•
Likes having wire fencing – visual appeal, prefers to be able to see the Reserve.
•
People don’t always pick up after their dogs.
•
Has noticed kids have built bonfires with the wood in the Reserve – has called Council and they’ve been quick to react.
•
They tend to mow a strip of grass in Rattray Reserve along their fence line.
•
Resident watched kids going to and from school jumping the fence at the end of Allens Rd into and out of Rattray Reserve.
•
Has noticed junk starting to pile up behind properties near Bowling Club – this happens from time to time. Believes if there was to be access made from Allens Rd that it would need to be gated.
•
3.1.21 Person 4 The interview identified: • Connection between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve is desirable. • Connection between the two areas would improve access through to the train station and improved pedestrian access. • Would like to see less car parking in Petrie Park. • Trees need replacing. • The big dead tree located at the eastern end of the Petrie Park should be retained for habitat. • Consider a bike path alone the train line to connect with the Eltham, Diamond Creek and Plenty River bike trails. • A water feature in Petrie Park is desirable. • Weed removal is required in Rattray Reserve
3.1.22 Person 5 The interview identified: •
This resident is very interested in the development and treatment of both of these parks (Petrie & Rattray). The appeal of moving here was it was a treed/bush environment and they are keen that this aspect is not compromised by inappropriate development.
Rattray Reserve • Would like to see this reserve maintained in as natural state as possible with any actions to be related to safety (fire etc). The main aim should be to bring this reserve back to as close to possible as what the area was like before development and farming. Hence any planting should reflect this goal. • Any structures should be restricted to simple, blending seats. Petrie Park • There are effectively 4 zones of activity. − recreation: oval activities/passive − commercial: RSL/Community Hall/Bowling Club/Pigeon Club − playground: children's playground equipment − treed/bush areas: some original trees and bush mainly along the rail easement. • Development of Petrie Park should attempt to isolate and clearly define these zones. The area that needs the greatest development is the natural vegetation zone, extending and developing the environmental pathway that allows the movement of animals/birds etc. from Diamond Creek along the bush zones to Petrie Park. • Please note that on three separate occasions over the last two weeks the resident has seen a wedge tailed eagle sitting in a tree overlooking the north/eastern end of the rail easement.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Attachment 2
Item: 2.1
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Item: 2.1
3.1.23
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Person 6
The interview identified: • •
Attachment 2
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Would like Rattray Reserve left as natural bushland. There have been cars lurking in the Reserve and there is concern that this presents a potential danger to children playing in the back Reserve. Some people who come to the Reserve to walk their dogs drive over the grass and there are now dead patches. Would like clarity around cars parking in Rattray Reserve Would like no parking signs up. Would like signs reminding people to take their rubbish with them. Would like Rattray Reserve to be kept as it – no through traffic. Would like a path on Rattray Rd. Would like the area used for carparking to be re-grassed as it used to be. Would like educational signage. Would like to re-position chain fence higher up drive away to deter parking. Would like beautification of entrance to Rattray-planting along entrance and embankment. Bench seating in the reserve would be ok. There are now only 28 species of birds down from 148. Resident has noticed people taking wood from Reserve.
3.1.24 Person 7 The interview identified: • Fencing of the playground area: Whilst, not an issue on the N or W side necessarily, many kids often wander eastwards and out of sight from their parents. Also it would help prevent unleashed dogs wandering into the playground area. Whilst this requirement for dogs not to be within 5m of the playground is current (poorly) signed, there have been multiple occasions dogs not on leads wander through the playground close to children. • The provision of bins around the playground area: The nearest bins are at the undercover BBQ area some 50-100m away. • The provision of seating on the north side of the playground. On warm days, there is no shaded seating areas. The northern side of the playground is provided with adequate shade from the tree canopy on the railway reserve. • Additional parking. At times there is a shortage of car parking in the area, especially at school drop-off pick up times, where many parents of St.Francis Xavier schoolchildren will drop off and pick up their children. Parking is also a problem if there is a function or event on at the Park (such as Christmas Carols or school/kinder events), or at the adjacent RSL. • New parking could be provided in the currently un-used cleared area immediately west of the playground. The area would need to be levelled but could provide for what I believe could be up to 30 additional car spaces, which could alleviate the parking issue. • A general expansion of the play equipment to provide for older children. It is currently suited to the 18 month-4 year old age bracket. • The installation of some small scale landscaping (e.g. native garden beds) between the driveway and the playground (currently lots of bare earth – i.e. muddy in winter, dusty in summer). • Linking Rattray Reserve to Petrie Park: Even if this was just via a footpath. I understand both areas were linked several years ago, but are no longer so. This would be considerable benefit to residents in the Montmorency South area as it would provide a quicker and safer route to Petrie Park. • Consideration of a picnic/BBQ area for Rattray Reserve. It is a lovely bush area and it would nice to see it more utilised. We are not suggesting a picnic area be installed as part of this master plan, but something that could be considered in future. I appreciate there would be issues relating to parking/access, noise to neighbours, rubbish, impact to wildlife etc.
3.1.25 Person 8 The interview identified:
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• • • • • • •
Rattray Reserve is one of the reasons the family moved here. The closeness of the woodland and the fauna that inhabit the reserve was appealing. The proximity to this secluded area of natural growth in Montmorency has enabled the family to encounter native fauna in their own backyard for example, sugar gliders, ringtail possums, tawny frogmouths, king parrots, magpies, and blue tongued lizards. It is a precious area which is crucial to the wildlife corridor and is a conservation reserve. The Friends of Montmorency Bushlands has spent the last 12 years clearing weeds and debris and replanting with native species to regenerate the area as a native nature reserve. It would be a great shame to undo all the work that they have done and continue to do. The reserve is used by many walkers, also for animal and bird spotting, for sitting and relaxing, and is a very peaceful part of the area. For us, being able to look out from our balcony to a beautiful woodland area is beneficial for our health and well-being in this busy world. They are concerned about the possibility of a connecting pathway between Rattray Reserve and Petrie Park. They feel this would destroy the character and purpose of the reserve and would ruin the fragile plant life and upset the animal life. It would encourage litter, vandalism and graffiti. Bike riders are more prone than walkers to veer off the path thus damaging the plant life and disturbing the native animals that already inhabit the bush. With the extra people passing through, the security and safety of the residents on the perimeter of the reserve would also be at risk. There is already access to the reserve from Rattray Road and other gates around the reserve. The only purpose of access from Petrie Park would be for a short cut through to Rattray Road which would downgrade Rattray Reserve's status as a nature conservation area. The character of a nature reserve is that it is passive. Therefore, no constructed paths, no playgrounds nor other types of structures would be appropriate for this parcel of valuable land.
3.1.26 Person 9 The interview identified: Rattray Reserve • • •
There needs to be access from Allen’s Road for walkers to enter Rattray Reserve. One entry point is not enough. The installation of below-ground composting bins for dog poo, with a lid, and biodegradable dog poo bags available in Rattray Reserve and Petrie Park. No concrete paths in Rattray Reserve – keep it wild and natural. Don’t open it up for development. It’s Montmorency’s secret place for kid’s cubbies, bush lovers and walkers. Please keep it as it is.
Petrie Park • • • • • • • • • •
Outdoor gym equipment for people to use whilst supervising children at the playground. There are some fantastic ones at Binnak Park in Watsonia with this sticker on them www.fitforparks.com.au. They are in constant use. A drink fountain near Robert Street end for use by kids using the oval. A more natural playground space (e.g Wombat Bend or the big logs at Westerfolds Park), or maybe just some giant logs placed near Robert Street end for climbing on. Lots more planting around the playground area, which is currently not very appealing. A water tank to supply water for the toilets, catching water from the toilet block and/or bbq shelter. No more carparking. Please keep the green areas green and not asphalted. No more pokies. If fact, no pokies at all… Community garden space on the terraced area above the playground. A part-time paid person to develop this and to oversee its maintenance and use. Signs with fines for cigarette droppers Recycling bins.
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• • •
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Attachment 2
Item: 2.1
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Item: 2.1
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
3.1.27 Person 10 The interview identified: •
Would like the parking/driveway widened and access to and from made easier. At the top of the park (near Mountainview Rd) nobody really uses that lawn area, since it’s so steep and too close to the road for playing. You could widen the carpark by an extra 2m incursion into this space down to the point where the maternal health centre is, without any real impact on useable park space. The other spot where traffic can snarl is in front of the RSL when they have deliveries or the courtesy bus is there. The road really needs widening at this point and the parking should be removed from this bottleneck until it is.
•
Traffic through and around St Francis Xavier School is of concern. Ideally a pedestrian bridge or underpass between the end of Bridge St (bottom of school driveway, near tennis courts) and into Petrie Park. This would encourage more people to allow their children to walk to and from school, since it would avoid the heavy traffic in Mountainview and Mayona Rds, particularly coming out of Bridge St. The shelter and tables are great, but the tables are dirty and uncomfortable and the whole area is rather drab. A good scrub of the whole space and some bright paint or murals on the side of the toilet block would be nice. The playground is fantastic for little kids, but only the climbing frame is of interest to kids over 5 years old. Some more play equipment catering to older kids would be appreciated. On a Friday after school, there are up to 50 St Francis Xavier School kids at any time. They get bored with the playground but there is no line of sight from the shelter shed to the oval, so they're trapped in the little kids’ playground. Demolish the existing public toilets and move them to the fence line, creating a line of sight to the oval. The toilet block itself is pretty basic, some soap in the hand basins would be desirable. The carpark at the Roberts Road end of the park requires repair. The Butterfly Playground at Eltham Park (near the miniature trains) is a great kid’s playground and communal park space. Clean, well laid out and visible, with plenty of shelter and adequate, accessible parking and clean toilet facilities. It would desirable to see something like this at Petrie Park. The upper range of the park is really quite wasted space - too steep for playing and no appealing spaces. Consider some low walls with mosaic like in Were St, to give somewhere to sit and a pleasant outlook. Consider a fence along the top section (Mountainview Rd) and an additional, older kid’s playground in this area. Some long slides or climbing frames and more swings away from where the small children play could be good.
• •
• • •
•
3.1.28 Person 11 The interview identified: • Resident would like to see an area designated to improving fitness, chin up bars and the like or a circuit in and around the park to help promote heathy living habits through fitness training.
3.1.29 Residents Via Facebook Page The following comments were received: • •
“It's a great park and I agree a shade sail would be a great help as well as a fenced in area, much safer for the kids.” “Please...just leave it the way it is.”
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
3.2 Resident Consultation – Drop in Event
2.1
Item: 2.1
A resident consultation event was held in the playground area on Saturday 21 March 2015, 10:00am – 11.15 am at Petrie Park with approximately 45 people attending and 11.30 am - 12.30 pm at Rattray Reserve with approximately 30 people attending.
3.2.1
Petrie Park
Attachment 2
Community Drop In Event – Petrie Park
Ideas •
Exercise equipment x 3
•
Enclose the oval to make it dog park friendly or create a separate dog park in space near Robert St
•
A bike path
•
Sandpit/digging area for kids
•
Fairy garden for kids
•
Skate Park*
*A petition with fifty-five (55) signatures was received from residents of Banyule and surrounding municipalities and presented to the Ward Councillor Briffa at the community drop in event. The petition prayer is as follows: We the undersigned request Banyule Council to build a Skate Park in Petrie Park Montmorency and include the Skate Park in the Petrie Park Master Plan. A Council report was prepared with the following recommendations: RECOMMENDATION 1.
That Council receives and notes the petition.
2.
That the petition be considered as a submission for the Petrie Park/Rattray Reserve Master Plan.
Unstructured Recreation
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Attachment 2
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Item: 2.1
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
•
Consider bench seating on north side of playground similar to that on east side so that parents can sit in the shade in the afternoon.
•
Shade cloth over playground x 3
•
Oval is great for running dog’s x 2
•
Not enough seating in shade near playground x 3
•
Prefer a fence area around playground to protect kids from road and dogs – natural barrier ok x3
•
A barrier is required behind the swings to stop people walking behind and getting knocked over
•
Half-court basketball and ring x2
•
A petition was received for a skate park
Access and Egress •
A pedestrian crossing or refuge is required at the top of the pathway at Mountain View Road.
•
Cars travel too fast through the park.
•
Don’t open Roberts Street as an entrance.
•
Parking out front of RSL is very congested.
•
In support of keeping one way in to reserve – not interested in other access points particularly from Robert St x 3
Pathways •
Support for a bike path along the railway line
•
The paths are poorly maintained and narrow.
•
A safe path is required through the reserve
•
Lack of path where road narrows.
Sporting Facilities • Move the clubrooms and public toilets closer to the railway line, thus opening up a line of sight between the playground and the sports ground Fencing • •
A fence between the playground and the road is desirable. Natural fencing would be beneficial between the playground and the road x 3.
Support Infrastructure •
New toilets would be good x 4.
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•
The wooden picnic tables are very dirty and need replacing x 2.
•
Install drinking fountains, seats and bins at Roberts Street end x 2.
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No more carparks.
•
Bins so close to playground cause an issue with keeping dogs away from playground – relocate some of the existing bins to other areas away from playground.
•
Recycling bin x 3.
•
Concerned with additional parking needed due to RSL proposal – but happy with the RSL actually extending.
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No lighting where road narrows.
•
Concerned about possibility of more parking at Robert St end.
•
More lighting required particularly at Roberts St end.
Vegetation •
Would like more trees planted along the railway line.
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Plant an understorey.
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More trees throughout the park.
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Consider the development of a community garden at the top near Mountain View Road.
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Consider a food forest – nuts fruit herbs – similar to Ashburton Food Forest.
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Dead tree could be converted to extra car space.
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Preserve as a park.
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Environmental opportunity to enhance the area with more green space.
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Use herbs as a border.
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Plant orchard trees like the pears that used to be in Petrie Park.
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More trees.
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More native planting on Mountain View Rd.
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Bush garden and interesting seating at the top of the playground.
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Like to see natural barriers not formal fencing/barriers.
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More planting near fencing.
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Protect the olive tree x 2
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
•
Don’t take over green space for car parks.
•
Concerned with the big dead tree – looks dangerous.
Attachment 2
Other •
There is a need for some overarching principles e.g. maintaining the same amount of open space and retain native trees and plant more.
•
Don’t overbuild.
•
People often mill around at top of car park (at night more so when leaving).
•
More maintenance of storm water drains required (ends up being a mini river flowing down towards Robert St after heavy rains).
•
Any new buildings or change to buildings should reflect the look of the area eg; Eltham Library.
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Keep Petrie Park natural looking with natural design products.
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Keep room for dogs.
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Keep open space – preserve it especially with higher density living on the rise.
•
Petrie Park is used by undesirables doing drugs, therefore a connection to Rattray Reserve may mean they move into Rattray Reserve as there are more places to hide.
3.2.2 Rattray Reserve Community Drop In Event Rattray Reserve
Ideas •
Perhaps a bush playgroup should be offered at the reserve.
•
Install a dispenser for dog poo bags and a bin.
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The reserve should be mandated to stay as a nature reserve.
•
Educational signage on flora and fauna x 3.
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Rattray Reserve is not listed on Council’s website nor about any of the other nature reserves. Putting the nature reserves on the website will increase community awareness about the sites and their value. This information could be supplied by Friends of Montmorency Bushland Group.
Attachment 2
•
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Pathways •
Don’t want footpaths in reserve.
•
Pavement along reserve side of Rattray Rd needs formalizing x 3.
•
Happy to have gate or access through to Allens Rd x 5.
•
Happy to have small thoroughfare to Petrie Park x 2 (as long as natural environment not adversely impacted).
•
Can’t cross Rattray Rd safely to get to Rattray Reserve.
•
Another access point would be good.
•
Don’t won’t another access point x 2.
•
Some discussion about opening up the access points on a trial basis to determine whether desirable or not. Support Infrastructure e.g. parking •
Dog poo an issue – dog bag/bin x 2 and signage.
•
Bench seats, natural x 5.
•
Not sure if I can park in driveway area to Rattray Reserve or not.
•
Would like interpretative signage about the history of the site as well as information about the flora and fauna – suggest made to use QR codes.
Vegetation/Landscaping •
Valued for its remnant vegetation.
•
Additional clearing in spring to deter snakes.
•
Fragile environment x2.
•
Any soil disturbance invites weeds.
•
Love to preserve as a nature park but still accessible to public.
•
What is the value of excess branches on the ground in Rattray Reserve?
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Love this beautiful reserve.
•
Keep as natural bushland x 3.
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Introduce native grasses to attract butterflies.
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Clear undergrowth.
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Make leash only x 2.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Leave fallen branches for natural decay for habitat.
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Item: 2.1
•
Back fence from property on Rattray Rd needs attention x 2.
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Love the space.
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Slow point of speed bumps near roundabout on Rattray to stop speeding cars.
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Concerned about overdevelopment.
•
Concerned about dogs in 1 Allens Rd – don’t feel safe to be in Rattray Reserve anymore x 2.
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Keep dog off-leash.
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Enjoy having a piece of bush land in close proximity to residences.
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Don’t want development.
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Others were opposed to any additional access points.
•
Some residents are interested in connecting Petrie Park to Rattray Reserve, whilst others are concerned that this will have a detrimental effect.
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Attachment 2
Other
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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4 Issues and Opportunities
Attachment 2
4.1 Key Issues and Opportunities Following the review of previous literature, site assessment and stakeholder and resident consultation a broad range of issues and opportunities have been summarized and are outlined in Section 4.2 for Petrie Park and Section 4.3 for Rattray Reserve.
4.2 Summary of Issues and Opportunities Petrie Park Following the review of previous literature, site assessment and stakeholder and resident consultation the following issues and opportunities have been summarised and identified for Petrie Park.
4.2.1 Unstructured Recreation Issues • The playground equipment primarily caters for younger children with limited opportunities for older children. • The playground is considered by many parents/carers to be too hot in summer as there is limited shade. • There is concern about the proximity of the driveway to the playground.
Opportunities • The natural topography of the site provides opportunities for developing a unique intergenerational play/activity experience. • Incorporate exercise/play opportunities with custom designed park furniture at the North West side of the playground and Robert St end of the park. • Consider the inclusion of a skate park – petition for a skate park to be built at Petrie Park was submitted to Council. • Install more seating on the north side of the playground e.g. raised benches • Plant trees on the North West side of the playground to increase shade and consider a shade sail. • Increase play opportunities. • Use more natural materials for play equipment. • Plant low shrubs to act as a barrier between the playground and the road. • The space between the picnic shelter and public toilet could be levelled to provide a better quality grassed picnic area/space.
4.2.2 Access and Egress Issues • There is only one vehicle access point making the park entry/exit area very busy. • The speed of cars down the driveway is of concern due to the proximity to the playground. • Visibility to the west is poor when exiting from the carpark servicing the RSL and children’s centre.
Opportunities
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• • •
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Consider opening an access point from Robert St to service the facilities at the eastern end of the reserve. This would not provide access through to Mountain View Road but would rather separate and zone each end of the reserve for vehicle access. Make Petrie Park more pedestrian friendly. Use line marking and raised walkways that double as vehicle slow points where appropriate throughout the park. Highlight that pedestrians have priority of access. Reshape and remove part of the existing cenotaph site to increase visibility when exiting the carpark behind the RSL and children’s centre.
2.1
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Issues • There is not an effective pedestrian path network throughout the park. • The path on the southern side of the driveway leads into parking bays rather than to the RSL and Montmorency Children’s Centre. • The paths are narrow and uneven and poorly constructed and maintained. • There are safety concerns where the northern path meets the Mountain View Road footpath. • There is no permanent safe crossing from Mountain View Road and Bridge Crescent into the park. • The footpath on Mountain View Road is too narrow given the level of use. Opportunities • Develop a path network throughout the park ensuring a path runs from Mountain View Road to Roberts Street. • Ensure any development in Petrie Park does not limit the possibility of a bike path along the railway line which would connect the Plenty River to the Diamond Creek Trail. • Consider widening the footpath on Mountain View Road and installing a safe crossing point on Mountain View Rd and Bridge Crescent.
4.2.4 Sporting Facilities Issues • The sportsground is undersized and only suitable for junior sport. • There is strong growth in junior sport in Banyule requiring continual investment in sporting facilities. • The grass cover is patchy. • There is only one light tower and the on switch is too high. • The pavilion is very small and includes no kitchen or storage facilities and the change rooms are very small. • The goal posts are in poor condition. • The pipe and rail fence only extends on the south east side of the oval and is in poor condition. • The sports pavilion restricts views into the reserve and blocks line of sight between the playground and the sportsground. • The eastern bowling green is two metres short. • There is no verandah attached to the pavilion which would provide shade from both hot and rainy weather. Opportunities • • • • • •
Improve grass cover on the oval surface. Redevelop the internal layout of the existing pavilion to incorporate a kitchenette and storage. Add a verandah on the eastern side and install external bench seating. Install sports ground lighting to training standard (minimum 50 lux) in order to spread wear and tear across the whole playing surface. Remove the pipe rail fence. Replace the goal posts. Consider the possibility of Petrie Park being the training base for women’s football for the Montmorency Football Club.
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Attachment 2
4.2.3 Pathways
Attachment 2
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
4.2.5 Community Buildings Issues • The bowling clubrooms are dated and too small for the existing club. There is limited office and storage space and updated kitchen and change rooms are required. • The bowling clubrooms face west which makes them very hot and not well orientated for watching bowling. • The scout hall has no external security lighting. • The pigeon club is outdated and poorly ventilated. • The loading bay at the pigeon club requires repair. • The pigeon club has to run an aerial out of the door of their clubrooms in order to set their clocks (used for racing pigeons) as they are unable to get reception due to the tin roof. Opportunities • Consolidate the pigeon club and the scout hall with the bowling club to create a larger multipurpose community facility servicing all three groups as well as other community needs. Consider the north east side of the bowling club and utilize the slope to create a two storey facility. • If a new multi-purpose facility servicing bowls, scout and pigeon club activities were developed on the north side of the bowling greens, the demolition of the existing bowling club rooms opens up the opportunity to provide a connection between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve.
4.2.6 Parking Issues • Car parking on site is intensively used at busy times and there is not enough parking. • No disabled car parking spaces near the Bowling Club access ramp. Opportunities • Increase the number of carparks where possible without significant impact on green space. Depending on whether community facilities at the eastern end of the reserve are consolidated there could be an opportunity to increase car parking at the Robert Street end utilising the existing pigeon club and scout hall areas. • Provide sufficient disabled car parking spaces throughout the park.
4.2.7 Fencing Issues • Lack of fencing around the playground • Water pipe fence on the oval is in poor condition • Occasional vandalism of railway line fencing
Opportunities • Installation of vegetation fencing around the junior playground given proximity to driveway • Install fencing along the new path.
4.2.8 Support Infrastructure Issues • • • • • •
Poor lighting throughout the park particularly at the eastern end No recycling bins in the park Drinking fountain in the playground area is in poor condition There are concerns about the safety and compliance of the blue stone stairs behind the RSL used to access the community hall. No access to water at the eastern end of the reserve for drinking or to water plants (requested by Friends of Petrie Park who would like to vegetate that area). There are no bins at the eastern end of the park or within the playground
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
• There are drainage issues on the west side of the picnic shelter • Wooden picnic tables are very worn/dirty • Public toilets are very basic Opportunities
• • •
Installation of security lighting throughout the park Install a recycling bin near the picnic shelter Install a rubbish bin and drinking fountain at the eastern end of the park and relocate a bin from the picnic area closer to the playground. Upgrade the public toilets to reflect the level of use of the park Replace wooden picnic tables and consider installing additional tables closer to Mountain View Road. Replace the blue stone stairs
4.2.9 Vegetation Issues • There is limited understory planting throughout the park • There has been no planting of large trees Opportunities • Increase planting across the reserve particularly along the railway line to enhance the bush corridor. • Increase planting to create habitat opportunities particularly at the eastern end of the park • Retain the dead swamp gum at the eastern end of the park for habitat • Continue to work with the Friends of Petrie Park group and other interested community groups for revegetation works. • Preserve the olive tree
4.2.10 Other Opportunity • There was strong interest from the community in installing interpretative signage (using QR codes) at strategic locations throughout the park to inform and educate park users about the history of the site. • Community members expressed some interest in developing a community garden or food forest.
4.3 Rattray Reserve Following the site assessment and stakeholder and resident consultation the following issues and opportunities were identified for Rattray Reserve.
4.3.1 Vegetation and Habitat Issues • Environment and soil is fragile and easily disturbed • Weed infestation is of concern • Restrictive site in terms of tree cover and canopy. Opportunities • Continue to work with Friends of Montmorency Bushland group and other interested community groups to continue revegetation works and weed removal works. • Retain the bush character • Incrementally eradicate weeds • Continue to plant ground cover and shrubs
4.3.2 Access and Egress Issues
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Attachment 2
• • •
2.1
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2.1
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• • •
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Lack of pedestrian access at Allens Road resulting in some reserve users entering private property to access the reserve. No connectivity between Rattray Reserve and Petrie Park There is no sealed footpath on the western side of Rattray Road
Opportunities • • •
Consider pedestrian access from Allens Road on a 12-month trial basis. This would involve negotiation and agreements with two land owners. Provide an informal path/track around the perimeter of the reserve (through slashing) Construct a sealed footpath on the western side of Rattray Road
Attachment 2
4.3.3 Fencing Issues • There are perceived safety concerns from the dogs in adjoining properties that are visible through wire fencing. Opportunities • •
Remove existing fence within the site and construct a new fence along Rattray Rd along the front of the site. Install bollards to define driveway entrance to adjoining property
4.3.4 Other Issues • • • • •
Conflicting use between bushland status of reserve and allowing dogs off lead Dogs off lead are defecating throughout the reserve and some owners are not picking it up Dogs off lead are a likely disturbance to native animals and flora in the reserve Dumping of rubbish in the reserve Lack of water source to water plants
Opportunities • • • • • •
Council to undertake a study on the impact of dogs in reserves such as Rattray Reserve that are zoned ‘public conservation and resource’. Educate the community through appropriate signage and programs about the sensitivities of the reserve and the importance of picking up after dogs. Install a bin and doggy bags to facilitate dog walkers to clean up after their dogs. A below ground composting bin and biodegradable dog poo bags were suggested by residents. There was strong interest from the community in installing interpretation signage (using QR codes) at strategic locations throughout the reserve to inform and educate reserve users about the history of the site and the vegetation and habitat that exists on site. Install natural looking seating in the reserve Install a water source.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
2.1
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5 Project Master Plans
The following sections detail the design options and key elements of the recommended Master Plan for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. Based on the recommended actions within the Master Plans an implementation plan indicating indicative costs and development priorities has been prepared. Michael Smith Landscape Architects and Urban Design have developed a Master Plan for Petrie Park (Section 5.2) and Rattray Reserve (Section 5.3).
5.2 Petrie Park Master Plan Framework The following section provides a summary of the key future master plan directions identified for Petrie Park within the Master Plan following exploration of the issues and opportunities as identified in Section 4.2 of this report. It should also be noted that the Montmorency community are interested in having input into specific design aspects of what has been proposed in the master plan. In particular, the opportunity for creative and artistic expression through park features should be considered in order to ensure that Petrie Park reflects the aspirations and interests of the local community.
5.2.1 Unstructured Recreation • • • • • • •
The natural topography of the site provides opportunities for developing a unique intergenerational play/activity experience. Incorporate exercise/play opportunities with custom designed park furniture at the Robert St end of the park. Plant mature trees on the North West side of the playground to increase shade. Install more seating on the north side of the playground e.g. raised benches. Use more natural materials in the playground and surrounds, such as rocks, planting, boulders, logs etc. Create a barrier between the playground and the road using indigenous species or logs. Level the space between the picnic shelter and public toilet to provide a better quality grassed picnic area/space.
Consultant Team Comment Whilst a petition was received for the inclusion of a skate park within Petrie Park, it was not considered appropriate to develop a skate park in this location given the topography of the site and the already high utilisation of the site. It is recognized however that currently there are limited play opportunities for older children and therefore intergenerational play experiences will be considered for the future. The exact nature of this to be determined following a community consultation process when funding becomes available.
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Attachment 2
5.1 Introduction
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
5.2.2 Access and Egress • •
Install raised walkways and line marking as vehicle slow points where appropriate throughout the park. Highlight that pedestrians have priority of access. Reshape and remove part of the existing cenotaph site to increase visibility when exiting the carpark behind the RSL and children’s centre.
5.2.3 Pathways •
Attachment 2
•
Develop a path network throughout the park ensuring a path runs from Mountain View Road to Roberts Street. Consider widening the footpath on Mountain View Road and installing a safe crossing point on Mountain View Rd and Bridge Crescent.
Consultant Team Comment The proposed switch back path from Mountain View Road will improve accessibility. There will be challenges in achieving the necessary gradient required under the Disability Discrimination Act due to the steepness of the slope. This will be further understood when detailed designs are developed for the path network. It is recommended that hand rails are installed along the switch back path. As there may be the possibility of a bike path along the railway line which would connect the Plenty River to the Diamond Creek Trail in the future, the proposed path network does not limit this possibility.
5.2.4 Sporting Facilities • • • •
Redevelop the internal layout of the existing pavilion to incorporate a kitchenette and storage. Add a verandah on the eastern side and install external bench seating. Install sports ground lighting to training standard (minimum 50 lux) in order to spread wear and tear across the whole playing surface. Replace the goal posts. Upgrade the ground surface with drainage and irrigation.
Consultant Team Comment In order to increase the amenity and functionality of the pavilion internal modifications are required. The addition of a verandah will provide weather protection for sporting clubs, personal training groups as well as the general community. With the continuing high growth of junior sport in Banyule, and the heavy utilisation of all sporting grounds across Banyule, Petrie Park provides a valuable space for junior sports training. In particular, there has been a rapid increase in female football participation in Montmorency in recent years and Petrie Park would provide a suitable training venue for these participants. Full sports ground lighting for training purposes and an upgrade to the playing surface is required in order to facilitate the effective use of the sports ground. In addition, when in use sports ground lighting for structured activity also offers opportunities for residents to safely use the park at night for unstructured activity such as walking, exercising and walking the dog for example.
5.2.5 Community Buildings •
That a feasibility study be undertaken to determine the viability of consolidating the pigeon club and the scout hall with the bowling club to create a larger multi-purpose community facility servicing all three groups as well as other community needs. The study should consider the north east side of the bowling club and utilise the slope to create a two storey facility. The building form is to minimise the shadows cast on to the bowling greens. This feasibility will also include car parking and traffic management of the overall site.
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•
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
If a new multi-purpose facility servicing bowls, scout and pigeon club activities were developed on the north side of the bowling greens, the area on the east side of the bowling greens could be used for car parking. The pigeon club site could be considered for additional car parking.
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Consultant Team Comment
In addition, the location of the building needs to be carefully considered in order to ensure that the bowling greens are not in shadow as this will create undesirable conditions for the surface which may result in algae and mould growing on the synthetic surface. Council should consider selling the rectangular parcel of land behind the Montmorency Bowling, adjacent to the rear property of 1 Allens Rd. This parcel of land is difficult to use in a meaningful way and through the master plan process interest to purchase the land has been raised. Proceeds from a potential sale could be used to offset improvement works in the park. In response to the proposed car park on the plan, it was requested that council make the section of the common fence on the council side unscaleable. In addition, that council place thick posts (bollards) at intervals along the fence dug and cemented into the ground to prevent any cars accidently nudging into the common fence and causing damage to this property.
5.2.6 Parking •
•
Increase the number of carparks where possible without significant impact on green space. Depending on whether community facilities at the eastern end of the reserve are consolidated there could be an opportunity to utilize the current location of the bowling and pigeon racing club rooms. Provide sufficient disabled car parking spaces throughout the park.
Consultant Team Comment The possibility of additional car parking at the eastern end of the bowling club will relieve some of the pressure on the middle car park. It is also desirable for Council to consider time restrictions in the carpark to deter all-day parking by train commuters, particularly towards the Mountain View Rd end of the park.
5.2.7 Fencing • •
Installation of vegetation fencing around the junior playground given proximity to driveway. Install fencing along the new path.
Consultant Team Comment It is recommended that the existing pipe and rail fence is removed and replaced with a fence between the new pathway and the road.
5.2.8 Support Infrastructure • • • •
Installation of security lighting throughout the park. Install a recycling bin near the picnic shelter. Install a rubbish bin and drinking fountain at the eastern end of the park and relocate a bin from the picnic area closer to the playground. Upgrade the public toilets to reflect contemporary access standards relevant to the parks level of use.
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Attachment 2
A feasibility study will be required to ascertain the ideal location and the necessary components for the consolidation of the three facilities into a single building. Each of the clubs have specific needs and due to the nature of the scout group catering to children this group will require their own toilets and kitchen facilities within their designated space, thus limiting the possibilities of sharing such facilities with other user groups.
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Item: 2.1
• • •
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Replace wooden picnic tables and consider installing additional tables closer to Mountain View Road. Replace the blue stone stairs. Locate seating throughout the reserve particularly around the sports field.
Consultant Team Comment Whilst it is desirable to install recycling bins near the picnic shelter the viability of this needs to be considered in the context of the logistics of Banyule City Council’s recycling service. Council is currently preparing a Dumped Rubbish and Litter Strategy and recycling at reserves will be considered within this strategy.
Attachment 2
5.2.9 Vegetation • • • • •
5.2.10 • •
Increase planting across the reserve particularly along the railway line to enhance the bush corridor. Increase planting to create habitat opportunities particularly at the eastern end of the park. Retain the dead swamp gum at the eastern end of the park for habitat. Continue to work with the Friends of Petrie Park group and other interested community groups for revegetation works. Preserve the olive tree.
Other Install interpretative signage (using QR codes) at strategic locations throughout the park to inform and educate park users about the history of the site. Where possible work in partnership with the community to ensure the design of future works provides an opportunity for creative/artistic input to reflect Montmorency.
5.3 Master Plan Design Rattray Reserve Following the site assessment and stakeholder and resident consultation the following issues and opportunities were identified for Rattray Reserve.
5.3.1 Vegetation and Habitat • • • •
Continue to work with Friends of Montmorency Bushland group and other interested community groups to continue revegetation works and weed removal works. Retain the bush character. Incrementally eradicate weeds. Continue to plant ground cover and shrubs.
5.3.2 Access and Egress • • •
Explore pedestrian access across private property from Allens Road to Rattray Reserve on a 12-month trial basis. This would involve negotiation and agreements with two land owners. Provide an informal path/track between Rattray Road and Allens Road to service walkers and dog owners (through slashing). Construct a sealed footpath on the western side of Rattray Road.
Consultant Team Comment There was mixed views during the consultation period in regard to the desirability of creating a connection between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve. It was considered undesirable to create a connection for several reasons, firstly the only adjoining area where a connection could be considered is quite isolated and lacks casual surveillance which may present a community safety issues; secondly the challenging topography of Rattray Reserve does not allow a fully accessible pathway,
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
particularly towards the upper western end and finally the sensitivities of the flora and fauna associated with this conservation area doesn’t support a thoroughfare into Petrie Park.
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Item: 2.1
The provision of an access point at Allens Road has been recommended on a trial basis (this will require negotiation and agreement with adjoining land owners as the access point will need to cross private property). A review is to be undertaken at 12 months in regard to the impact of anticipated increased use of Rattray Reserve on the environmental values of the reserve.
5.3.3 Fencing •
The relocation of the existing fence to the front of the reserve on Rattray Road will open up the reserve and will eliminate the separation between the front of the site and the rest of the reserve. The installation of bollards to define the driveway to the adjoining property will prevent people from parking within the reserve.
5.3.4 Other • • • •
Council to undertake a study on the impact of dogs in reserves such as Rattray Reserve that are zoned ‘public conservation and resource’. Educate the community through appropriate signage and programs about the sensitivities of the reserve and the importance of picking up after dogs. Install interpretation signage (using QR codes) at strategic locations throughout the reserve to inform and educate reserve users about the history of the site and the vegetation and habitat that exists on site. Install natural looking seating in the reserve.
Consultant Team Comment There was some community concern in regard to the practice of allowing dogs off lead in a designated conservation zone. Given this is also the practice in other conservation zones across Banyule Council it is recommended that Council consider this issue more broadly and determine whether this is a practice which should continue. Until this is resolved, dog owners are to be educated about the sensitivities of the reserve and the importance of picking up after their dogs. This is considered preferential to the installation of bins and doggy bags. The inclusion of water to this site was suggested however further discussion with Council’s Bush Crew has highlighted that this is unnecessary infrastructure as water is brought in on site as needed for planting days.
5.4 Draft Master Plans The first draft master plans for Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve are documented on the following pages.
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Attachment 2
Remove existing fence within the site and construct a new fence along Rattray Rd along the front of the site. • Install bollards to define driveway entrance to adjoining property. Consultant Team Comment
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Attachment 2
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
5.5 Community Response to Draft Master Plan A number of master plan review options were set up to enable residents to comment on the draft master plans. These included: •
A drop in consultation forum was held on 25 July in the Montmorency Scout Hall.
•
Written submissions were invited.
•
An online community survey was set up and was accessible to interested persons.
th
Attachment 2
A summary of these draft master plan feedback sessions is detailed as follows:
5.5.1 Drop In Forum th
A drop in consultation forum was held on Saturday the 25 July in the Montmorency Scout Hall with approximately 20 people attending. Below is a summary of the views expressed by those who attended the drop in session. Petrie Park •
Place bollards or fence to slow cyclists and children on skate boards at the entry to the park from Roberts Street.
•
Signage to remind dog owners to collect dog poo.
•
Retain current vehicle access to park as the only access.
•
I think it is fantastic that you are looking to improve Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve.
•
I love the community consultation that is being done.
•
Supportive of all suggestions especially the improvements to the playground, lighting and the fitness experiences.
•
Shade for the playground and formalised access path is desirable.
•
Great job Council!
•
Huge upright logs for jumping and parkour look great.
•
Proposed carparking on the current bowling club room’s area needs to be well lit.
•
Support from owners of 1 Allen’s Road for a land swap for the small parcel of land currently used by the bowling club for parking.
•
Need for removal of the possum ring now that the swamp gum is dead.
•
Support for planting at Roberts Street end of reserve.
•
Support for spinal path through the park. Three people attending the drop in supported this with each of them also commenting on the need for lighting.
•
Support for a pedestrian connection between Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve.
•
Need to install more park seating particularly around the sports field.
A number of people left written documentation and these were documented as written submission.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Petrie Park Submission 1 I am at 3 Allens Road, Montmorency and as such my property adjoins with the proposed car park addition behind 1 Roberts Street. Our common fence, which is a paling fence construction and the rails are on the council side which make it easy for anyone in the carpark to scale the fence and come into my property uninvited. This would create a security threat to my property.
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Given this possible security threat by the change in the use of the land, I would like for the council to make that section of our common fence on the council side unscaleable please.
Other than the above I have no objections to the land being converted to car parking. Petrie Park Submission 2 A written submission was received from the Montmorency Senior Football Netball Club and the Montmorency Junior Football Club confirming their interest in the use of Petrie Park as a training venue for their women’s football teams. The club are requesting the following works: 1. Install sport field lighting in accordance with AS2560 and AFL Guidelines 50 lux (training standard only). 2. Drainage and irrigation to compliment increased training opportunities under sports field lighting. 3. Secure change rooms, redevelop the existing envelop to establish modest change rooms. Rattray Reserve Submission 1 Land owner at 1 Allens Road is supportive of providing access to the park from Allens Road and is willing to negotiate with Council to provide this access,’ Five residents were supportive of the proposed footpath along Rattray Road.
5.6 Draft Master Plan Resident Survey Results An online resident survey was set up and letters distributed to 322 households within the catchment of Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve to promote the drop in or survey response form. The survey was also advertised on Council’s consultation page of its website. The survey was available for completion th th from Monday 20 July 2015 to Sunday 9 August 2015 to seek resident’s views to the draft master plan. The survey was completed by 22 people providing information on: • Respondent profile • Current use of Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve • Draft Master Plan • Opinions on the proposed changes to the areas Please note: Respondents completed the survey online via SurveyMonkey. (Set up/administered by SGL)
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Attachment 2
Also could the council place thick posts (bollards) at intervals along the fence dug and cemented into the ground to prevent any cars accidently nudging into the common fence and causing damage to my property please?
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
5.6.1 Respondent Profile The following table summarises the respondents that completed the survey: Table 5.1 Resident Survey Respondent Profile CATEGORY Gender
Attachment 2
Age Range
SUB-GROUP Male Female Under 20 years of age 20 – 30 years of age 31 – 50 years of age 51 – 65 years of age 66+ years of age
NUMBER 6 14 1 3 7 7 2
% of Respondents 30.0 70.0 5.0 15.0 35.0 35.0 10.0
A review of the survey respondent sample indicates that: • 22 people completed the survey. Two people chose not to record their gender or age. • More females than males completed the survey (70% compared to 30%) • The age groups that represented that largest proportion of the survey pool were 31 to 50 years of age and 51 to 65 years of age (both 35% of the survey pool)
5.6.2 Petrie Park All 22 survey respondents identified they had made use of Petrie Park in the previous year. Respondents were then asked to identify the main reasons for their use of the park. Table 5.2 Main Reasons for Use of Petrie Park Reason Enjoying the outdoors Using the RSL Walking through the park on the way to somewhere else (thoroughfare) Using the playground Walking for exercise Walking the dog Meeting friends For a BBQ/Picnic Playing on the sporting reserve (informal use) Using the children’s centre Jogging Using the Maternal and Child Health Centre Participating in competitive sport (playing and/or training) Personal Training activity Using the Community Hall Meeting point for school pick up Using the Scout Hall Watching competitive sport
% of Respondents 45.5 45.5 45.5 40.9 27.3 27.3 27.3 22.7 18.2 13.6 13.6 13.6 13.6 9.1 9.1 4.6 4.6 4.6
The majority of the top reasons for vising Petrie Park were related to informal use of the area including enjoying the outdoors (45.5%), using the playground (40.9%) and walking the dog and for exercise (both 27.3% of respondents). Other top answers included using the RSL (45.5%) and using the park as a thoroughfare to get to somewhere else (45.5%). Eighteen per cent of respondents (18.2%) identified that their primary reason for using Petrie Park was as a thoroughfare to somewhere else. Survey respondents were asked to identify their most common mode of travel to Petrie Park.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
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Table 5.3 Transport to Petrie Park Transport Mode Walk Car Bike
% of Respondents 50.0 45.5 4.6
Half of the survey respondents walk to Petrie Park (50.0%) while 45.5% drive to the park. Survey respondents were supplied with a copy of the Draft Master Plan and asked on their opinions on the proposed changes to the area.
I support providing additional play/exercise opportunities I support a path network through the park I support the construction of the switchback path from Mountain View Road to the main path through the park to increase accessibility I support the consolidation of the Bowling Club, Pigeon Club and Scout Hall into one multi-purpose community facility I support upgrading the sports ground lighting to comply with training light standards I support the proposed car parking configuration I support additional planting of indigenous plants to increase habitat values within the park I support the installation of educational signage about the history of Petrie Park
Agree
Disagree
No opinion
85.7%
0.0%
14.3%
85.7%
0.0%
14.3%
81.0%
0.0%
19.1%
47.6%
4.8%
47.6%
71.4%
14.3%
19.1%
42.9%
19.1%
38.1%
95.2%
0.0%
4.8%
81.0%
0.0%
19.1%
Of the eight changes that were identified, the majority of respondents agreed with six. There were however two that split the respondent sample. Respondents were uncertain about the consolidation of the bowling club, pigeon club and scout hall into a single multi-purpose facility. Only 47.6% agreed with this change, while 4.8% disagreed and 47.6% had no opinion. The proposed car parking configuration was the change that was disagreed with the most. 42.9% agreed with this change, however 19.1% disagreed and 38.1% had no opinion. There were a number of changes relating to pedestrian priority access points and speed bumps within the park. Respondents were asked on their opinions relating to each one. Table 5.5 Petrie Park Proposed Access Points I agree with the proposed location of pedestrian priority access points/speed bumps‌ Between the path on the southern side near the maternal and child health centre and the northern side Between the RSL and the playground Between the RSL and the Cenotaph Between the bowling club and the oval
Agree
Disagree
No opinion
61.9%
0.0%
38.1%
70.0% 60.0% 55.0%
0.0% 0.0% 5.0%
30.0% 40.0% 40.0%
Of the four proposed changes to access and speed bumps, three did not face opposition with respondents either selecting agree or no opinion. The changes between the bowling club and the oval were identified as the only area that faced objection with 5% of respondents disagreeing with the location. Survey respondents were presented with a list of proposed improvements and asked which would be likely to result in an increased use of Petrie Park. The following improvements were listed.
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Table 5.4 Petrie Park Proposed Changes
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Table 5.6 Petrie Park Increase Future Use with Proposed Improvements Proposed Improvement Intergenerational play/exercise equipment Path network Installation of security lighting Improved picnic facilities Installation of full sports ground training lighting Additional Planting Reduction in speed of vehicles in the park Barrier between road and playground Improved parking facilities I don’t use the reserve My use will not change
% of Respondents 61.9 47.6 38.1 33.3 28.6 28.6 23.8 19.1 14.3 4.8 4.8
The proposed improvements that would be most likely to change the frequency of use of residents is the installation of intergenerational play/exercise equipment (61.9%), the development of a path network (47.6%) and the installation of security lighting (38.1%).
5.6.3 Rattray Reserve Of the survey respondents, 60% had made use of Rattray Reserve in the preceding year. The main reasons they had used the Reserve were: Table 5.7 Main Reasons for Use of Rattray Reserve Enjoying the outdoors Walking the dog Walking for exercise Observing the local flora and fauna Informal play Meeting with friends
% of Respondents 81.8 63.6 54.6 45.5 27.3 18.2
More than 8 out of ten respondents (81.8%) have used Rattray Reserve as a way to enjoy the outdoors, while walking the dog and walking for exercise are both common reasons for using the site (63.6% and 54.6% respectively). Survey respondents were supplied with a copy of the Draft Master Plan and asked on their opinions on the proposed changes to the area. Table 5.8 Rattray Reserve Proposed Changes Council should trial an access point at Allen’s Road I support the installation of educational signage in relation to the flora and fauna of Rattray Reserve
Agree
Disagree
No opinion
65.0
10.0
25.0
100.0
0.0
0.0
Respondents were unanimous in support of the installation of educational signage in the Reserve. They were however more divided over the potential access point at Allen’s Road. Only 65% agreed with this change, while 10% disagreed and 25% had no opinion. Survey respondents were presented with a list of proposed improvements and asked which would be likely to result in an increased use of Rattray Reserve.
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The following improvements were listed. Table 5.9 Rattray Reserve Increase Future Use with Proposed Improvements Proposed Improvement Construction of a footpath on Rattray Road Access point from Allen’s Road Additional planting Information signage about flora and fauna I don’t use the reserve My use will not change
2.1
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
% of Respondents 50.0 40.0 40.0 25.0 20.0 5.0
The improvements that are most likely to lead to an increase in usage of Rattray Reserve are the construction of a footpath on Rattray Road (50%), an access point from Allens Road (40%) and additional planting (40%).
5.7 Weed Management Priorities and Program for Rattray Reserve 5.7.1 Introduction This section of the draft master plan reviews the weeds that occur in the bushland at Rattray Reserve that may have a significant impact over time so control measures may be required. Weeds with potential to compete with and replace indigenous flora were assessed by inspecting the reserve and recording weed species that are known to have significant impacts in native vegetation. By definition the weeds listed and discussed in this report are the weed species for control although priorities within the listed group will be defined to some degree below. The extent and distribution of the significant weed species present has been summarized and general control approaches discussed, and finally a program for five years of works proposed.
5.7.2 Rattray Reserve Conditions Rattray Reserve is dominated by native bushland and has been managed by Banyule City Council’s Bushland Crew for many years. It is a sloping site with a higher drier section to the north sloping down to Rattray Road to the south, still dry but with deeper soils. The condition of the vegetation is quite typical of sites in the Nillumbik Hills with its shallow nutrient-poor clay soils and is particularly influenced by the history of the site since European settlement. The site was likely cleared and grazed for most of its history since European settlement however it was likely never substantially cleared and ploughed. Cutting the trees and grazing for decades in a bushland site will substantially modify the vegetation even if removing the logging and grazing pressure allows significant regeneration to occur. The uniformly small tree cover is an indication of almost complete tree clearing at some point in the past with regeneration of trees occurring in the last few decades. The indigenous shrub layer is substantially absent which is an indication of a long history of grazing as shrubs are particularly susceptible to extirpation by grazing animals. The majority of the groundstorey in the reserve is dominated by Weeping Grass Microlaena stipoides and various Wallaby Grasses. This is typical of areas grazed but generally left unploughed. There are small patches of native grasses with some resilient wildflowers such as Chocolate Lily Arthropodium strictum remaining; the minimal area of this condition is typical of formerly grazed horse paddocks where sensitive species such as daisies, orchids and lilies are selectively impacted and extirpated from such sites. Then there are areas of weed cover with groundstorey weeds scattered through the reserve with small patches where disturbance was likely more thorough completely dominated by exotic groundstorey weeds.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Overall, the site is typical of many formerly grazed “bush paddocks” in the Nillumbik Hills region with a significant cover of native grasses but relatively species poor compared to original conditions.
Attachment 2
The Council’s Bushland Crew has managed the site over their tenure by slashing firebreaks on most boundaries, conducting ongoing weed control and planted some shrubs. The current weed infestations are limited to some degree which is an indication of extensive works over time. Very few woody weeds are present and it is quite likely that more were present at the point of reservation however the bush crew logically addressed these more substantial weeds first. Very few woody weeds remain but substantial groundstorey weeds remain to be addressed. Many groundstorey weeds remain as they are the most pernicious and difficult to control. They can also have the most substantial impact because all indigenous flora species, herbs to trees, must germinate on the soil surface and thick cover of groundstorey weeds can inhibit germination of many indigenous flora species and prevent the maintenance of bare spaces in between grass tussocks where delicate indigenous herbs and soil crusts occur. Once woody weeds are controlled in bushland then the more difficult issue of groundstorey weeds must be addressed and this reserve is at that stage after many years of good management work by the Banyule Bush Crew. Weed control is necessary to facilitate natural regeneration of the limited indigenous flora species that are still present while also potentially creating the opportunity of “gaps” in the groundstorey where reintroduction of flora species formerly present can be done through nursery stock or direct seeding. Weed control will also usually facilitate regeneration of indigenous flora without further intervention except for the species eradicated through past grazing and disturbance.
5.7.3 Weed Species Present: Extent, Distribution, Ecology and Control Methods The weeds found in the reserve are common in the Silurian hills of Melbourne. This section will list the significant weeds species in typical life form groups with descriptions of their extent and distribution. The life form groups can be useful because they usually lead to clear priorities and control strategies that work on groups of similar species. Control techniques, timing and other considerations are also discussed as these issues help define when and how control works should be implemented. The discussions presented in this section have been translated to a weed management program below. 1. Woody Weeds Sallow Wattle *Acacia longifolia Cootamundra Wattle *Acacia baileyana Only a small clump of these species were observed on the site, i.e. in the centre of the slope in the east central part of the reserve, which is probably because the Banyule Bush Crew has been working on removing larger infestations. These last clumps of introduced wattles will still be adding acacia seeds to soil seedbank which can germinate for many years to come so should be a high priority for control. 2. Radiata Pine *Pinus radiate A few large Pines remain in the reserve on the western edge with minimal regeneration of new trees. These trees may not been removed because they provide amenity for some neighbours and costs may be prohibitive. Delaying their removal is not a significant issue as the species doesn’t accumulate soil stored seed and the minimal regeneration that may occur would be easy to address over time. Nonetheless, removal of the Radiata Pines should be programmed in at some point because it is a weed and out of character with the indigenous bushland in the reserve. Ringbarking or drilling and filling and leaving a standing dead tree is not a good option because dead trees are dangerous later so removal of the whole tree is likely required.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
3. Sweet Pittosporum *Pittosporum undulatum There are likely many specimens of this native weed in local gardens and many birds are probably eating the fruit with seeds and then depositing those seeds in the reserve. There are many small plants in the reserve and a small effort of hand pulling each year will allow the crew to keep them from establishing larger plants. Ongoing control is a priority because adult Sweet Pittosporum will transform and eliminate indigenous understorey through the significant shade cast by its canopy.
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These plants are typical of Mediterranean climates with perennial bulbs or corms that resprout after autumn rains, flower and set seed in mid-winter exhausting their food stores in their bulbs then spending the rest of winter and spring restoring their bulbs before losing their above ground leaves, with some exceptions, and going dormant over the hot summer. This ecological and physiological behaviour is critical to consider in the control process. 1. Agapanthus *Agapanthus praecox Agapanthus is the less typical weed in this group as it is a large perennial bulb with substantial permanent leaves. It is also already uncommon but has the potential to spread in wetter portions of the site. Control with herbicide such as glyphosate is possible but it is likely just as efficient and more effective to simply remove the plants by hand and dispose of safely. Pink Shamrock *Oxalis debilis var. corymbosa Soursob *Oxalis pes-caprae Onion Weed *Romulea rosea Watsonia *Watsonia meriana var. bulbillifera The above four weeds do have significant similarity in their ecology and required control techniques. These weeds are common across the site but their abundance is sometimes underestimated because they are unseen for half of each year. They will be competing directly with indigenous flora species that have similar ecological characteristics such as lilies and orchids. They all have corms or bulbs and have leaves that are deciduous dying off in the summer. Each autumn the corms send up fresh leaves with autumn rains and then flower, exhausting their bulbs by the time they begin to flower. Once they are done flowering and producing seed in late July or August they start to restore the energy in their bulbs for the next year. The “bulb exhaustion phase” when leaves have grown and 10-20% of the flowers are present, usually late July but varies with seasonal conditions, is when these species are susceptible to glyphosate. The bulb exhaustion phase is the only time that spraying will be effective with these species. Oxalis spp. and Watsonia can be effectively controlled by sensitive spot spraying at bulb exhaustion but Onion Grass requires a more nuance approach. The small leaves of Onion Grass are so abundant and thin that spraying is very difficult. The best approach for Onion Grass is to use a wick wiper to apply herbicide across the leaves. Onion Grass will easily turn out to be the most difficult weed on the site because of its abundance and difficulty to control but reducing its abundance after addressing the other less abundant bulbs will still be useful over time.
5.7.5 Perennial Grasses These include: • • • •
Sweet Vernal *Anthoxanthum odoratum Cocksfoot *Dactylis glomerata Panic Veldt *Ehrharta erecta Kikuyu *Pennisetum clandestinum
These are all groundstorey weeds that can dominate the groundstorey and inhibit regeneration of indigenous species. The Kikuyu is limited in extent, generally in limited small patches in the southeast corner, but is the highest priority because it is an “ecosystem transformer”, i.e. it changes the structure
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Attachment 2
5.7.4 Perennial Herbs with Bulbs or Corms
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
of the ecosystem over time by preventing regeneration of most indigenous flora, so should always be removed as a high priority in bushland. Control of these species is most efficient with sensitive spot spraying in different seasons according to the species and its ecological adaptations. Sweet Vernal, Cocksfoot and Panic Veldt are all cool season grasses so can be spot sprayed all through the cool months of the year when there is enough rain to keep them green and actively growing. Kikuyu is a warm season grass and can only be effectively killed with glyphosate in late spring when there is usually enough moisture and warmth for it to be actively growing.
5.7.6 Annual Grasses
Attachment 2
These include: • •
Large Quaking Grass *Briza maxima Annual Veldt Grass *Ehrharta longiflora
These exotic annual grasses are cool season grasses that sprout with autumn rains, grow through winter, set seed and then die and drop seed in the first heat waves each spring. They are common across the reserve and limit their growth to the cool seasons and their impact may be underestimated because of their limited life span. However, they dominate the spaces between grass tussock where indigenous herbs and soil crusts would usually grow and may increase the rate of water loss from the soil above natural conditions by having delicate leaves elevated and drying out each spring. These species can be controlled through spraying a grass selective contact herbicide or with handheld weed burners that can scorch and kill young seedlings or older plants. The best time for control is between their emergence as small green shoots and before they start to dry out and die off in spring when spraying or burning will be ineffective. Control efforts between June and September are usually effective. Populations of these species can be effectively extirpated with well-timed control work over time because their seeds have limited life, from one to two years, and once new seed production is prevented with thorough works in any one site for one to two years the populations can be eliminated.
5.7.7 Developing a Weed Management Program and Conclusions The Banyule Bush Crew has likely eliminated much of the weeds in the site over time. However, as is typical in bushland reserves that were formerly grazed and disturbed over time there are many significant weed problems remaining. Controlling weeds is the most critical action for facilitating vegetation recovery as eliminating competition and creating ecological space for regeneration of indigenous flora is the most important task in restoring an ecosystem after disturbance. Determining an appropriate weed management program is the highest priority for management in Rattray Reserve. This section outlines a proposed weed management program for five years that considers the priority weeds listed above, their ecological characteristics, most effective control techniques and potential labour resources required. The table below will list recommended weed control works distributed over five years with estimates of the person days required. The priority areas in the reserve for these works have not been defined because of the lack of mapped data of weedy and indigenous flora cover. Control efforts for uncommon weeds, such as the introduced wattles should be done where they occur, but control of more common weeds such as bulbs, perennial and annual grasses should be done in areas of better quality groundstorey as a high priority. The Banyule Bush Crew indicated that they were well aware of the better areas where works can be concentrated initially and extended out as those areas improve. It will also be useful to implement works in discrete blocks across the reserve over time so that weed control works are done thoroughly in any one area before extending to other areas. Implementing works with the limited labour resources available will also inevitably create a staged approach which is most appropriate for ensuring that weed control is effectively built on over time and facilitates natural regeneration of indigenous flora.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Estimates of person days required are also approximate. Any weed control work should be staged so that natural regeneration that usually occurs in episodic bursts over time according to conditions can also occur in stages. A good deal of “fiddly” weed control work can be done in one or two person days but if labour resources are available it would be more than reasonable to double the efforts each year for works on the abundant groundstorey weeds present.
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Please note that it is anticipated that some of the “legacy” weed issues, such as the last introduced wattles and Pine trees, can likely be implemented in the first year or two. Subsequently, works will either be in the maintenance category, i.e. preventing Sweet Pittosporum from establishing despite the ongoing introduction of seeds by birds, or staged and ongoing control of the abundant and pernicious groundstorey weeds that are present. There will also be the need to integrate other works, such as fire break slashing into an annual works program.
The following table summarises the weed control program and estimated number of person days. Table 5.10 Proposed Annual Weed Control Program Year
Season
Task
2016
Summer/ Autumn
Removing Woody Weeds – Cutting and painting introduced wattles before another season of seed production and hand pulling Sweet Pittosporum seedlings Remove any Agapanthus tussocks Spot spray bulb weeds at bulb exhaustion phase Spot spray perennial grasses Spot spray or scorch young annual grasses Spot spray Kikuyu Remove Pine Trees Hand pull Sweet Pittosporum seedlings Remove any remaining Agapanthus tussocks Spot spray bulb weeds at bulb exhaustion phase Spot spray perennial grasses Spot spray or scorch young annual grasses Spot spray Kikuyu Hand pull Sweet Pittosporum seedlings Remove any remaining Agapanthus tussocks Spot spray bulb weeds at bulb exhaustion phase Spot spray perennial grasses Spot spray or scorch young annual grasses Hand pull woody weed seedlings Remove any remaining Agapanthus tussocks Spot spray bulb weeds at bulb exhaustion phase Spot spray perennial grasses Spot spray or scorch young annual grasses Hand pull woody weed seedlings Remove any remaining Agapanthus tussocks Spot spray bulb weeds at bulb exhaustion phase Spot spray perennial grasses Spot spray or scorch young annual grasses Hand pull woody weed seedlings Remove any remaining Agapanthus tussocks Spot spray bulb weeds at bulb exhaustion phase Spot spray perennial grasses Spot spray or scorch young annual grasses
Winter
2017
Spring Summer/ Autumn Winter
2018
2019
2020
2021
Spring Summer/ Autumn Winter
Summer/ Autumn Winter
Summer/ Autumn Winter
Summer/ Autumn Winter
Estimated Person Days 0.5
4
0.5 Tree crew cost unknown 0.5 4
0.5 0.5 4
0.5 4
0.5 4
0.5 4
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Attachment 2
5.7.8 Proposed Weed Control Program
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Appendix One:
Banyule Wildlife Corridor
Attachment 2
• Excerpt from: Banyule City Council (2000.) Banyule Wildlife Corridor Program.
• • Railway Link Location: Extends along the Hurstbridge Railway Line across Banyule from Ivanhoe through to Montmorency. Habitat features: The continuous reserve along the railway line provides opportunities for links between adjoining residential areas supporting habitat remnants across the Darebin Creek, Plenty River and Diamond Creek catchments. Scattered remnant indigenous vegetation occurs along the railway line between Ivanhoe and Greensborough. Indigenous vegetation is virtually continuous along the railway line and adjoining residential areas east of Greensborough and through Montmorency. A stand of Studley Park Gums occurs around the car park at Eaglemont Station.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Land ownership: The State Public Transport Corporation manages the railway line reserve. A number of additional reserves are scattered along the railway line. The link incorporates adjoining residential areas in Ivanhoe, Eaglemont, Heidelberg, Rosanna, Macleod, Watsonia, Greensborough, Briar Hill and Montmorency.
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Vegetation types: Sedimentary Plains Woodland, Dry Sclerophyll Forest, Yellow Box Valley Forest and Box Woodland.
Requirements: • •
Planting of indigenous trees and understorey vegetation in reserves and along roadsides, Protection and re-establishment of indigenous vegetation within residential properties, including trees and understorey vegetation, • Establishment of regeneration areas around remnant River Red Gums within reserves in Macleod and around remnant trees in Mountain View Road Reserve in Montmorency, • Incorporation of indigenous plants in landscaping around railway stations. • Also refer Appleby et al. (1992) and BEAC (1996)
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Attachment 2
Key sites: Darebin Parklands (Committee of Management), Darebin Station (PTC), Ivanhoe Station (PTC), Eaglemont Station (PTC), Warringal Place Reserve, Heidelberg Station (PTC), Rosanna Station (PTC), Rosanna Parklands, Macleod Station and Railway Reserve (PTC), Macleod Park, Macleod High School, Harry Pottage Reserve, Watsonia Station (PTC), A.K. Line Reserve, Kalparrin Gardens, Whatmough Park, Greensborough Station (PTC), Poulter Avenue Reserve, E.J. Andrew Reserve, Montmorency Station (PTC) and Petrie Park.
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Appendix Two: 1. 1. 2. 3.
Attachment 2
Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Petrie Park Draft Master Plan – Open Comments
2. 3. I don't believe that the RSL patronage should be a priority consideration when developing this park. I believe sport and recreation should be the focus. 4. Would like to see an access point to Petrie Park from Rattray Park. 5. 1. Recommend change in wording for point 11 on the Plan to remove the word 'consider'. The footpath on Mountain View Road is too narrow and widening it should be prioritised within this Plan to facilitate safe access to and from Petrie Park. Its current narrow width doesn't even allow for an adult and child to walk safely side by side along it. Furthermore, a large and increasing number of children cross Bridge Crescent before and after school as parents from St Francis Xavier Primary School drop and pick up their children at Petrie Park in order to avoid and help reduce the traffic congestion associated with school start and finish times. Installation of a safe crossing point here would improve safety for the children. 2. I suggest that drinking fountains should be installed at the oval to supplement those already located at the playground.
4.
6.
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6. 7.
8. 9.
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9.
11.
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12.
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3. I support the proposed additional mature planting to increase afternoon shade at the playground. This space gets very hot in the summer. Have you considered overhead shade cloth? Whilst item 3 to plant mature trees at the north west end of the playground will help to shade the train play equipment, our concern previously raised was for shading of the swings which may not be shaded by these trees. The train play equipment has its own roof and its own shade whereas the swings are in full sun and used by younger children. Shade sails would be ideal and give the proper shade. Has the skate park been considered and what is the outcome? There are only 2 skate parks in Banyule, this is not enough. Please install shade sails over the playground. Please put a well-lit access track through Rattray Reserve into Petrie reserve for a quicker route to the station for the houses off Anensen Court and environs Playground is very ugly and I wish I had become involved in its upgrade a few years ago. Natural materials and a toning down of the awful gaudy colours would create a much more aesthetically pleasing and imaginative space. More than happy to help with ideas! Currently there is no appropriate outdoor basketball half court with lights in Monty - I would like to see one installed at the Eltham end of the oval next to the dead tree The status of the ground surface needs to be improved. If possible the length of the ground to also be addressed If you install security lighting it needs to be the kind with zero light spill, lateral and vertical. The park is home to nocturnal animals and they need the dark just to exist. Personally, I would only increase my use of the park if there were more planting, outdoor seating, clean toilets and shady trees, as I like to visit parks in summer to relax in a natural setting and to see the flora and fauna. I don't need any other facilities or safety features.
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Attachment 2: Petrie Park and Rattray Reserve Master Plan Technical and Consultation Report - Feb 2016
Appendix Three: Rattray Reserve Draft Master Plan – Open Comments
2.1
Item: 2.1
Footpath along Rattray Road is essential for greater ease of access to park. A connection to Petrie Park would certainly increase access and usage to the reserve and provide a passage through to Mountain View Road.
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
A clearly marked and levelled pathway throughout the reserve Lastly, Barriers along Rattray Road to allow off leash dog activities and training and also to prevent children from running onto the road. I see no need to provide the pedestrian link from Allens Road. The main priority for pedestrians needs to be the construction of the path along Rattray Road. Also, restrict the parking in front of the Reserve to 1 hour so that people who drive there have somewhere to park rather than churning up the Reserve. Would use Rattray Reserve more if had access point direct to Petrie Park The proposed footpath will be a lifesaver! Would like access to Petrie Park from Rattray Reserve Consider the skate park this petition seems to have been ignored. A trail through Rattray Reserve to Petrie Park for quicker and flatter access to train station at Monty. Please keep it wild and natural. Any change must not impinge on wildlife in the reserve
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Attachment 2
1.
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Attachment 3: Petrie Park Key Directions - Feb 2016
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Attachment 4
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Attachment 4: Rattray Reserve Key Directions - Feb 2016
4.1
Attachment 2: Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 2 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
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Attachment 2: Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 2 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
Attachment 2
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Attachment 2: Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 2 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
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Attachment 2: Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 2 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
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Attachment 3: Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 3 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
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Attachment 3: Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 3 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
Attachment 3
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4.1
Attachment 3: Heidelberg and Bell Street Mall Parking Plan - Draft Schedule 3 to the Parking Overlay - Feb 2016
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Attachment 1: Response to Original Objections
4.2
Item: 4.2 ATTACHMENT #1:
The following is a response to the original objections on the basis of an assessment of the revised plans. Over development of the site, including excessive site coverage, height (greater than ResCode), scale and bulk. The resulting number of dwellings would be too intense given the size of the site. The proposed development is a vast reduction in the overall building footprint and more consistent with the scale and intensity of dwellings within the area. The double storey nature of the proposal is consistent with the presence of double storey dwellings already on Munro Street. It is considered that the current proposal addresses this concern. •
Increased traffic (and associated noise from vehicles), car parking demand (inadequate provision of car parking), and impacts on vehicles movements for surrounding properties. The current proposal will reduce the development to five dwellings which is easily able to be accommodated for within the surrounding network. No concerns have been raised from Councils engineers with regards to the number of vehicles. The proposal utilises the duel frontages of the site and as such reduces the concentration of vehicle movements which is more able to be absorbed into the surrounding road network. The applicant does not provide a visitor parking space. However, no concerns with regards to this reduction have been raised by Councils engineers. Given the site accesses two street frontages and is for five dwellings all of which provided the required onsite parking it is considered that the parking space can be accommodated for within the street. The layout of the development does not provide any reasonable areas whereby a visitor space can be practically located to reasonably service the development and would also detract and remove the ability for landscaping to be achieved on site.
•
Leith Walk is not wide enough to accommodate two-way traffic. The closure of Leith Walk is presently being considered. Should Leith Walk be maintained to the extent of the road serving the subject site it is considered that the impact of six vehicles can be accommodated for by the narrow road. Council’s engineers have no concerns with regards to the current scale of the proposal.
•
Inadequate provision of bicycle facilities. The current proposal is for five dwellings. No communal bicycle parking facilities are required.
•
Inconsistent with the existing neighbourhood character, this is made up of detached, low-density dwellings. The proposal has been amended to propose detached double storey dwellings. Given the site encompasses two large residential lots the provision of five dwellings is considered reasonable and reflective of the established and emerging scales of development in the area. The proposal is considered consistent with the existing neighbourhood character. ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 233
Attachment 1
•
4.2
Item: 4.2
•
Attachment 1: Response to Original Objections
The development will set a precedent for other development that is greater than twostoreys. The proposal has been amended to be double storey.
•
Increased demand on power, water and sewerage infrastructure, and the need to accommodate back-up generator.
Attachment 1
The application has been reviewed by Councils development engineers. The existing infrastructure is capable of supporting the proposed scale of development. •
Impacts on pedestrian safety, particularly along Leith Walk. The proposal will include three crossings to Leith Walk, adequate sightlines are proposed on either side of each crossing to ensure adequate sightlines are maintained. Councils engineers have raised no additional concerns with regards to the access onto Leith Walk. Permit conditions will also require Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 have minimum street setbacks of 5.0m to aid articulation and limit any potential overhang of parking to Leith Walk.
•
Impacts on visibility to and from the driveway due to the retaining walls along the edge and the location of courtyards. No issues of visibility are created by the current proposal which ensures adequate sightlines from the driveways with recessed fencing and open front setbacks.
•
Leith Walk is a walkway, not a road. Leith Walk is identified as a local road. As discussed previously, the scale and design of the current proposal is considered suitable.
•
Poor access for emergency vehicles. Emergency vehicles will continue to be able to access the site from Munro Street or Leith Walk.
•
The size of the dwellings is inadequate and more consistent with apartments in the CBD and surrounding inner-suburban areas. The size of the dwellings has been reduced and is consistent with traditional residential development particularly the scale and nature of dwellings in Munro Street and the wider residential area.
•
The location of air-conditioning units is unknown and will cause noise pollution. The location of the solar gas boosted hot water systems are also unknown. Given the scale and nature of the proposal it is not considered there is likely to be any unreasonable detriment as a result of normal residential services.
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•
Attachment 1: Response to Original Objections
The courtyards and balconies are too small (including non-compliance with ResCode) and will cause noise issues on neighbouring properties.
4.2
Item: 4.2
•
Overlooking, particularly from Unit 13. The development no longer includes Unit 13. Overlooking complies with the requirements of Clause 55 and where necessary screening measures are applied to upper floor windows.
•
Overshadowing. Given the orientation of the site and the setbacks from adjoining properties the development will comply with the overshadowing requirements of Clause 55.
•
Car space no. 1 does not meet the Australian Standard as it should be 300mm wider dues to the obstructing wall. The modified plans comply with the car parking standards of Clause 52.06.
•
The courtyard for Unit 1 protrudes into the frontage and would be clearly visible from the neighbouring property. No courtyards are proposed within either frontage of the site.
•
Inconsistency in the plans including dimensions of rooms and permeability. The proposal has submitted amended plans.
•
The site forms a prominent ridge line. The development will be double storey and responds to the fall of the land accordingly. The provision of substantial tree replacement planting will further ensure the proposal sit below the natural tree canopy line and does not become prominent within the surrounding area.
•
The subject site is not a strategic redevelopment site given its distance from the Macleod shopping strip. The current proposal does not demonstrate a development which would constitute a strategic redevelopment and is consistent with the scale and nature of the established residential character. ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 235
Attachment 1
The provision of secluded outdoor living areas is considered suitable and complies with the requirements of ResCode. The Courtyard serving Dwelling 2 complies with the northern setback requirements however, it is considered appropriate for a condition to require the building footprint of Dwelling 2 to be set to the south an additional 1.0m to the Leith Walk frontage. Additionally, a permit condition will require that bedroom 2 of Dwelling 1 be relocated to the front with the associated deletion of the retreat room. The removal of this part of the building will also open up daylight access to Dwelling 2. The intention of this condition provides additional solar access to this space while maintaining an appropriate side boundary setback and retaining a small service yard to this dwelling.
4.2
Item: 4.2
•
Attachment 1: Response to Original Objections
Impacts on the area during excavation and construction, including a lack of details on how this is to occur without compromising the surrounding properties. The development of the site will be subject to construction management practices dealt with by the building permit.
•
Insufficient space for rubbish bins and lack of clarity as to how bins will be collected.
Attachment 1
The current scale of the proposal does not require a waste management plan and can be collected by normal waste services. •
This kind of development is targeted towards elderly people yet the development does not accommodate the appropriate access and facilities for the elderly. One of the dwellings will be required by way of permit conditions to comply with Councils Livable Housing Design Guidelines.
•
The size of the previous building is irrelevant when determining the appropriate scale of the new building. The scale and nature of the existing building has no bearing on the consideration of the revised application.
•
Unclear as to how the front hedge will be retained and maintained during the excavation and construction process. The front hedge will not be retained by the current proposal. The hedge does not constitute protection under the Vegetation Protection Overlays affecting the site. Permit conditions will require substantial replacement planting which will positively contribute to the neighbourhood character.
•
The weight carrying capacity of Leith Walk is unknown. The capacity of Leith Walk is not a planning consideration. The scale of the current proposal is more in keeping with traditional residential activities and is considered suitable in terms of the existing road network.
•
The driveway ramp gradient would compromise visibility for short drivers and be challenging to avoid stalling a car. The driveway ramp is no longer proposed.
•
It is unclear as to how the visitors will access the basement carpark and details of the carpark door. The basement carpark is no longer proposed.
•
Bicycle storage facilities protrude into open areas and compromise access. The bicycle storage is no longer proposed.
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 236
•
Attachment 1: Response to Original Objections
The laundries provide no provision for the drying of wet washing, including a lack of clotheslines.
4.2
Item: 4.2
Each site will be provided with external clotheslines. •
Poor security due to low courtyard walls.
•
Leith Walk is an integral part of the Macleod Golf Links estate and is compromised by the proposal. It is not considered that Leith Walk will be compromised by the current proposal. Pedestrian access will continue to be provided.
•
It is unclear as to which apartments accommodate the liveable housing requirements. Permit conditions will require one dwelling demonstrates compliance with the Councils Livable Housing Design requirements.
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 237
Attachment 1
The proposal does not include any low courtyard walls presenting to the street.
4.2
Item: 4.2
Attachment 2: Neighbourhood Character Assessment
CLAUSE 22.02: RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBOURHOOD CHARACTER POLICY ASSESSMENT – Garden Suburban 2 APPLICATION NO: P757/2014 DEVELOPMENT ADDRESS:
36 Munro Street MACLEOD, 34 Munro Street MACLEOD
PROPOSAL:
Multi-dwelling development - Construction of nineteen (19) dwellings
This precinct includes parts of the Heidelberg Specialised and Major Activity Centres are in this precinct. The detailed landscaping and vegetation outcomes for residential sites in these Activity Centres are guided by this policy. The preferred future built form character of residential sites in these Activity Centres is guided by the Design and Development Overlay Schedule 5, where applicable.
Attachment 2
Outside Accessible Areas These areas will protect and enhance the garden suburban character of the precinct with an emphasis on protecting trees and creating new opportunities for vegetation throughout sites. They will provide for a mix of well-designed single dwellings and medium density dwellings in garden settings, with space around and between dwellings to create an attractive, treed landscape setting. Objective To ensure new buildings and extensions are sympathetic to the current building form and architectural style. Design Response 1. Incorporate the main themes, in correct proportions and scale from the 1950s and 1960s era as appropriate to the street, ie.: low pitched, hipped roof forms with a second or third hipped roof fronting the street; narrow, boxed eaves.
Complies? Conditions
Conditions
2.
Second storey additions should reflect the architectural style and form of the existing building.
Yes
3.
In accessible areas, upper levels should be positioned towards the street frontage and recessed from the lower level wall surfaces.
N/A
4.
Period detailing is not encouraged, but if used should complement the architectural style and scale of the building.
N/A
5.
Variation should be provided between each dwelling of a development that faces the street. This can be achieved through varied roof pitches, window and door placement, materials, façade articulation and other design detailing.
Conditions
Discussion The proposed development is for contemporary style double storey dwellings. The surrounding area is largely characterised by the original post war single storey, redbrick and pitched tile dwellings intermingled with a few examples of weatherboard and more modern double storey development. The dominant roof form is pitched concrete tiles. The contemporary design of the proposal introduces a mixed skillion and flat roof. It is considered that this style of roof is at odds with adjoining properties and a more considered approach to the roof treatment should be included in the design. In particular with regards to the interface with Munro Street. Permit conditions could be applied to a decision which would require pitched roofs applied to those dwellings which interface with the existing residential dwellings. The materials suggested by the proposal include brick work on the lower level and a mix of timber cladding render on the upper floor. The suggested materials are considered consistent with the traditional brick dwellings as well as the more modern dwellings which exist on Munro Street. The use of lightweight and light colour finishes on the upper floor also reduces the significance of the upper floor. The second stories of each dwelling are generally articulated from the lower level walls. In particular Dwellings 1 and 2 which present to the street have recessed upper floors and Dwellings 4 and 5 are constructed so as to appear as one built form. Dwelling 3 which occupies the centre of the site and is narrow introduces sheer wall elements on either side, however given this interfaces is to the adjoining dwellings of the proposal it is
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 238
Attachment 2: Neighbourhood Character Assessment
considered appropriate. The upper floor scale of the dwelling is considered to reflect the variety of architectural styles present in Munro Street. The retreat space on the upper floor of Dwelling 3 is sheer with the lower level. A permit condition will require this is setback form the ground level by at least 1.0m so as to reduce the overall bulk and mass of this dwelling from the street.
4.2
Item: 4.2
As they present to Munro Street, Dwellings 1 and 2 are varied. Both dwellings are physically separated. While these two dwellings are identical they do not mirror one another and Dwelling 2 sits at a slightly lower elevation. Both dwellings have clearly defined entrances areas with porches, double garages and habitable room windows which present to the street. It is considered that permit conditions could require the building materials between these two dwellings to be modified and porches varied to aid visual interest.
On balance it is considered that subject to conditions to the roof forms and materials the proposal on the whole is sympathetic to the current and emerging built forms and styles within this locality.
Objective To ensure that household services are not a visually prominent feature. Design Response 6. Solar panels should be located to minimise their visual impact. Air conditioning, rainwater tanks, bins and storage should be located and/or screened so they are not visually obtrusive in the streetscape. 7.
In accessible areas, rooftop plant equipment should be screened and/or located to minimise their visual impact and integrate with the roof form.
Complies? Yes Yes
N/A
Discussion All services are proposed within the courtyard or secluded outdoor living areas and are not visible from the street or surrounding properties.
Objective To maintain consistency of current front setbacks whilst enabling tree planting in front gardens.
Complies? Yes
Design Response 8. Dwellings should be setback in line with the predominant front setback of dwellings along the street.
Conditions
9.
In accessible areas only, a reduced front setback for new buildings (including basements) may be acceptable, if this respects the predominant front setback of nearby dwellings and supports the planting and future growth of a large tree to maturity.
10. For corner sites, the front setback of a dwelling facing the side street should be at a transition
N/A
Yes
between the predominant setback along the side street, and the side setback of the dwelling facing the front street. Discussion The adjoining property to the north at 38 Munro Street has a front building setback of 9.6m. The current proposal seeks a building setback of 9.0m and a side setback of 3.0m. Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 which present to Leith Walk have front setbacks of 3.0m increasing to 4.0m. In order to provide additional landscaping and also improve the parking areas for Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 a permit condition will require all three dwellings are setback from Leith Walk by at least 5.0m. It is considered that this condition will enable areas for landscaping and tree planting to be achieved and remain consistent with the established streetscape character. In relation to Leith
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 239
Attachment 2
As the development presents to Leith Dwelling 4 and 5 typically mirror one another, potential variations in the building materials could also be introduced onto this elevation to further distinguish the two dwellings.
4.2
Item: 4.2
Attachment 2: Neighbourhood Character Assessment
Walk the setback of 5.0m will provide a transition for the corner lot to the adjoining properties. It is considered that the proposal ultimately maintains a consistency in setbacks to the two street fronts and provides ample opportunities for meaningful tree planning and associated understory planting to be achieved which will contribute to the streetscape character.
Attachment 2
Objective To ensure buildings and extensions do not dominate the streetscape or the building, and do not adversely affect the outlook and amenity of neighbouring dwellings. Design Response 11. Second storey portions of buildings should be recessed from ground level wall surfaces, incorporated within roof spaces where possible and minimised in height.
Complies? Yes
Conditions
12. Buildings at the rear of a site should be designed to follow the topography of the land and
Yes
13. In accessible areas, all upper levels should be positioned towards the street frontage and recessed
N/A
respond sensitively to each interface. Second storeys (where appropriate) should be modest in size, have generous side and rear setbacks and be screened with vegetation. from ground level wall surfaces.
14. Developments should minimise the need for cut and fill throughout the site.
Yes
Discussion The upper floors of each of the proposed five dwellings demonstrates recession and articulation which are satisfactory when viewed from adjoining properties in terms of setbacks and bulk and mass. Dwelling 1, 2 and 3 do incorporate elements of sheer walls. In the case of Dwellings 1 and 2 the sheer wall element presents to the east and is internal to the development therefor not have any adverse impacts on the streetscape or adjoining properties. In order to further reduce the bulk and mass particularly of Dwelling 1 and to further improve solar access to the south, a permit condition will require the deletion of the retreat space and the associated relocation of bedroom 2 to the front of the site. This modification will reduce the upper floor, aid articulation and solar access and eliminate a sheer wall element as it presents to the south. Dwelling 3 being a narrower built form includes sheer wall elements to the rear and for a small portion of the frontage. It is considered that at the rear of this dwelling the sheer wall elements will have negligible impacts on any adjoining properties and are largely obscured by the presence of the adjoining built forms. As it present to the street it is considered a permit condition will require this wall to be setback at least 1.0m to improve articulation and reduce the apparent bulk and mass of this dwelling to the street. The overall scale of the development is in keeping with the traditional double storey nature of residential development as well as a number of existing properties on Munro Street which are already double storey. From the northern boundary the development has provided the secluded outdoor living areas which provide a generous setback to the adjoining property. From the east, Dwelling 5 is provided with a garage on the boundary which aligns with the carport and car parking area of the adjoining property at 2/51 Leith Walk. The built form is further recessed increasing the ground floor setback to 2.6m from the eastern boundary. The upper floor eastern elevation of Dwelling 5 proposes generous setbacks again extending from 1.6m up to 4.3m. The setbacks from the northern and eastern elevation allow opportunities for tree planting and landscaping which will contribute to softening and screening the built form from adjoining residential properties. The subject site experiences a gradual fall in the topography from the north to the south which will require the proposal to have some excavation. The extent of the required excavation as proposed is considered appropriate. A small retaining wall is proposed within the secluded outdoor living areas of Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 and as the development presents to the west on Munro Street Dwelling 2 will be set at a slightly lower elevation.
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 240
Attachment 2: Neighbourhood Character Assessment
It is considered again, that the proposed extent of excavation is appropriate and necessary and will not cause the development to become overbearing when viewed from the surrounding environment. The excavation works required will ensure the development sits comfortably within the context of the site.
4.2
Item: 4.2
Objective To minimise loss of front garden space, and the dominance of vehicle access, vehicle storage facilities and built form as viewed from the street. Design Response 15. Buildings should be sited to allow for the planting and growth of trees and shrubs.
Complies? Yes
Conditions
16. Locate carports and garages behind the line of the dwelling.
Yes
17. Dedicated car parking spaces should not be provided between the front wall of a dwelling that
Yes
18. Encourage outcomes that consider the Banyule City Council Residential Vehicle Crossing Policy
Yes
faces the street, and the front property boundary. Landscaping such as large shrubs and trees in the front setback and garden beds along driveway edges should be provided to discourage car parking in this location. 2012.
19. Driveways should include curves and bends that provide sufficient room for landscaping at varying
Yes Conditions
20. Driveways should be finished in muted tones that soften their appearance and blend with
Yes Conditions
heights.
vegetation. Discussion
Both setbacks to the respective frontages have provided areas for meaningful landscaping including tree planting. The setback to Munro Street is provided at 9.0m. The frontage width of this boundary is over 30.0m and includes two single crossings. The Leith Walk frontage is over 45m in length and provides three double crossovers. Permit conditions will require the frontages of Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 to be at least 5.0m from Leith Walk. The setbacks on both frontages will therefore be easily able of supporting large and medium tree planting as well as understorey vegetation. The extent and number of crossings is also consistent with the Vehicle Crossings Policy 2012. All dwellings are provided with double garages which are set behind the front wall and thus remain subservient to the entrance areas. No tandem parking is proposed which would require vehicles to parking within the driveway areas. The crossings serving Dwellings 1 and 2 which extend across the frontage are curved which also provides space for varied landscaping. Permit conditions will require a 5.0m setback to be provided to Leith Walk from Dwellings 3, 4 and 5. It is considered minor variations to the driveway could be introduced to enable curves or bends as well as permit conditions for landscaping to be provided at varying heights. The materials and colours of the finished driveway are unspecified at this time, however, permit conditions can ensure they are constructed in muted tones to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority. Overall, the proposal gives preference to landscaping and tree planting within the front setback ensuring parking and driveways remain subservient when viewed from the street.
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 241
Attachment 2
On balance it is considered that the layout of the development, respective setbacks and excavation with associated permit conditions will not result in a built form which will adversely affect the outlook and amenity of neighbouring dwellings. The development is generally orientated away from the properties to the north and east with articulated upper floors where necessary. Ample opportunities have been provided on the site to achieve meaningful landscaping which will both contribute to softening and screening the development as well as positively contributing to the landscaped character.
4.2
Item: 4.2
Attachment 2: Neighbourhood Character Assessment
Objective To maintain the openness of front boundary treatments the view of established front gardens and tree lines streets, and the presentation of dwellings to the street Design Response 21. Buildings should be sited to allow for the planting and growth of trees and shrubs. Front gardens should contain at least one (1) large tree and understorey landscaping. 22.
Secluded private open space should be located behind the line of a dwelling that faces the street.
23. Provide for open style fences appropriate to the era of the dwelling.
Complies? Yes
Yes Yes N/A
Attachment 2
Discussion No front fences have been suggested by the proposal. The front setback to Munro Street enables the opportunity for a large tree to be planted as well as medium and small trees. Secluded outdoor living areas are all orientated to the site or rear of the dwellings and obscured from the view of the street.
Objective To maintain and strengthen the garden dominated streetscape character and landscaped setting of the precinct. Design Response 24. Retain existing trees wherever possible. If this cannot be achieved, or a tree is considered appropriate for removal, the site should provide adequate space for offset planting of indigenous or native trees that will grow to a mature height similar to the mature height of the tree to be removed. 25. One (1) medium to large tree should be provided for every 400 sq.m of site area, with a
preference for large trees. This may include existing trees that are worthy of retention. At least one of the large trees should be provided in the front setback.
26. Buildings (including basements) should be a sufficient distance from at least one side or rear
Complies? Conditions
Yes
Conditions
Yes
property boundary to enable the planting and growth of medium to large trees. These setbacks should provide sufficient area for future growth of the mature canopy of trees, and understorey planting. 27. If more than one dwelling is proposed on a site outside an accessible area, sufficient separation
Yes
should be provided between each dwelling to allow for the planting and future growth of small to medium trees and understorey vegetation. 28. Tree species and planting locations should be carefully selected to avoid canopy or root conflicts
Conditions
29. Building site coverage should not exceed 40% to enable sufficient pervious site area for planting,
Variation
with overhead wires, easements and existing trees.
growth and retention of vegetation. This may be varied if the proposal is in an accessible area and demonstrates that the vegetated character of the site and Precinct is protected and enhanced by retaining existing vegetation and providing sufficient area for the planting of additional trees and other vegetation. 30. If there is no street tree within the frontage of a dwelling, a new street tree should be proposed.
Discussion
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 242
Conditions
Attachment 2: Neighbourhood Character Assessment
The revised proposal has not been submitted with a landscaping concept plan however, the permeable areas on site enable tree planting opportunities. No significant vegetation is present on site which is worthy of retention and as such, the site provides an opportunity for replacement planting which will improve the landscape quality of the site and contribute to the vegetated character of the area.
4.2
Item: 4.2
2
The site is 1376 m in area and as such, the policy seeks a total of 3 medium to large trees on site. The front setback to Munro Street is capable of supporting two large canopy trees and the outdoor living areas afforded to the north of Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 can support large and medium tree planting.
Permit conditions can ensure a landscaping plan prepared by suitably qualified architect is submitted which will ensure vegetation is selected and located appropriately. The overall, building coverage proposed is 44% which exceeds the recommended 40% sought. The proposal utilities the unique opportunity afforded to it by presenting dwellings to both street frontages. Both front setbacks provide opportunities for tree planting. The orientation of the site means that secluded outdoor living and open areas are to the north of the dwellings which both mitigate the effect of built form as it presents to adjoining properties and provides opportunities for meaningful tree planting. The extent of landscaping able to be achieved on site aids to both soften the built form and contribute to the landscaped character sought by the policy. Permit conditions have recommended extensive replacement planting including four large canopy trees which will on balance improve the current side conditions and have a positive outcome for the future tree canopy for the neighbourhood. No street trees are presently provided within either frontage and again, permit conditions can require street planting to be provided at the expense of the applicant. It is considered that the proposal will provide an opportunity for landscaping and tree planting which will contribute too and improve the landscaped character of the site and surrounding precinct and the extent of building coverage is mitigated both by the layout and setback of built forms but also the opportunities for meaningful tree replacement planting.
Objective To ensure that developments on or near ridgelines retain existing trees, sit below the tree canopies, minimise excavation, and enable further tree planting to form a continuous canopy, so that the scenic quality is maintained and enhanced. Design Response 31. New buildings at or near ridgelines should be designed and sited so that cut and fill is minimised and the building sits below the height of trees along the ridgeline. 32. New buildings at or near ridgelines should have muted colours and tones, and non -reflective materials. 33. Trees and vegetation that contribute to the landscape should be retained. New native or indigenous trees should be planted on or near the ridgeline to form a continuous canopy.
Complies? Yes
Yes Conditions Yes
Discussion
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 243
Attachment 2
Setbacks to respective boundaries particularly to the north and east enable areas where smaller tree and understorey planting can be achieved.
4.2
Item: 4.2
Attachment 2: Neighbourhood Character Assessment
The proposal presently has not included a colour schedule for the proposed materials but by way of permit conditions the development can be limited to muted and non-reflective tones further insuring it does not become visually dominant.
Attachment 2
The site is presently does not contain any significant vegetation or any large canopy trees. By way of permit conditions and a landscaping plan the development enables opportunities for four large trees within the front setbacks to Munro Street and within the secluded outdoor living spaces of Dwellings 4 and 5. Medium trees can also be provided within the secluded living areas of dwellings 3, 4 and 5. As such, in terms of landscaping and tree planting the proposal will enhance the contribution of this site to the character of the area. It is considered that he proposal will not adversely impact the surrounding area and will not be a prominent feature of the ridgeline. The scenic quality of the site will be improved by the landscaping opportunities afforded by the design of the proposal.
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 244
Attachment 3: Clause 55 Assessment
4.2
Item: 4.2
ASSESSMENT AGAINST CLAUSE 55 APPLICATION NO.: DEVELOPMENT ADDRESS.: PROPOSAL:
P757/2014 36 Munro Street MACLEOD, 34 Munro Street MACLEOD Multi-dwelling development - Construction of nineteen (19) dwellings
Neighbourhood Character objectives
Complies
•
The proposal has demonstrated a suitable response to existing and preferred neighbourhood character and the relative site constraints.
•
To ensure that the design respects the existing neighbourhood character or contributes to a preferred neighbourhood character. To ensure that development responds to the features of the site and the surrounding area Standard B1
It is considered that on balance the proposal will result in a positive contribution to the area.
Residential policy objectives
Does not comply.
•
Refer to response in delegate report.
•
To ensure that residential development is provided in accordance with any policy for housing in the State Planning Policy Framework and the Local Planning Policy Framework, including the Municipal Strategic Statement and local planning policies. To support medium densities in areas where development can take advantage of public transport and community infrastructure and services. Standard B2
Dwelling diversity objective •
N/A
To encourage a range of dwelling sizes and types in developments of ten or more dwellings. Standard B3
Infrastructure objectives
Conditions Required
•
The application will be required to be referred to Councils engineers to provide recommended permit condition in relation to the service and infrastructure connections.
•
To ensure development is provided with appropriate utility services and infrastructure. To ensure development does not unreasonably overload the capacity of utility services and infrastructure. Standard B4
Integration with the street objective
Complies
•
Each dwelling has a pedestrian entrance direct to the respective street frontage. Pedestrian footpaths are provided and sheltered porch entrances. Habitable room windows are provided on the lower and upper floors which overlook the street and provide passive surveillance and integrate with the street.
To integrate the layout of development with the street. Standard B5
Clause 55.03 (Site Layout and Building Massing) Street setback objective
Complies – Conditions
•
As it presents to Munro Street the frontage will be 9.0m which complies with this standard. The setback to Leith Walk is 3.0m for Dwelling 3 and 4.0m to Dwelling 4 and 5.
To ensure that the setbacks of buildings from a street respect the existing or preferred neighbourhood character and make efficient use of the site. Standard B6
In order to improve landscaping opportunities, built form presentation and vehicle parking and sightlines, permit
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 245
Attachment 3
Clause 55.02 (Neighbourhood Character and Infrastructure)
Attachment 3
4.2
Item: 4.2
Attachment 3: Clause 55 Assessment conditions will require Dwellings 3, 4 and 5 are provided with a 5m setback to Leith Walk. The setback will also provide a greater transition between the built forms on Leith Walk and those dwellings to the east.
Building height objective
Complies
•
The maximum building height of the dwellings is no more than 7.9m.
To ensure that the height of buildings respects the existing or preferred neighbourhood character. Standard B7
Site coverage objective
Does not Comply
•
The specified building coverage complies with the requirements of Clause 55 however, is a variation of the maximum building coverage sought by the Local Policy.
To ensure that the site coverage respects the existing or preferred neighbourhood character and responds to the features of the site. Standard B8
Permeability objectives
Complies
•
The proposal complies with the minimum permeable surface requirements.
•
To reduce the impact of increased stormwater run-off on the drainage system. To facilitate on-site stormwater infiltration. Standard B9
Energy efficiency objectives
Complies
•
The site has an east to west orientation. Where feasible living areas and outdoor living spaces are provided to the north. The proposal has taken advantage of solar orientation where possible.
•
To achieve and protect energy efficient dwellings and residential buildings. To ensure the orientation and layout of development reduce fossil fuel energy use and make appropriate use of daylight and solar energy. Standard B10
Open space objective •
N/A
To integrate the layout of development with any public and communal open space provided in or adjacent to the development. Standard B11
Safety objective
Conditions Required
•
All entrances are clearly identifiable from the street and the proposal does not incorporate any obscure or isolated access ways.
To ensure the layout of development provides for the safety and security of residents and property. Standard B12
Habitable room windows present to both streetscapes which provide passive surveillance. Permit conditions associated with the deletion of Bedroom 2 of Dwelling 1 could require its relocation to the front of the dwelling thus providing passive surveillance over the street and further contributing to streetscape amenity. No public thoroughfares are achieved onsite.
Landscaping objectives
Conditions Required
•
The proposal is capable of providing meaningful landscaping and tree planting on site. Permit conditions can require a landscaping plan which demonstrates compliance with this objective.
• • •
To encourage development that respects the landscape character of the neighbourhood. To encourage development that maintains and enhances habitat for plants and animals in locations of habitat importance. To provide appropriate landscaping. To encourage the retention of mature vegetation on the site. Standard B13
Access objectives
Complies
•
Two single crossings are provided to Munro Street which has a frontage of over 30m. Three double crossings are provided to Leith Walk which has a frontage width of over 45m. The percentage of crossing to each frontage is 20% and
•
To ensure vehicle access to and from a development is safe, manageable and convenient. To ensure the number and design of vehicle crossovers respects the neighbourhood character. Standard B14
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 246
33% respectively. Both frontages have less than the maximum 40% of street frontage sought by this objective.
Parking location objectives
Complies
•
Secure double garage parking is provided to each dwelling which has internal access.
• •
To provide convenient parking for resident and visitor vehicles. To avoid parking and traffic difficulties in the development and the neighbourhood. To protect residents from vehicular noise within developments. Standard B15
Clause 55.04 (Amenity Impacts) Side and rear setbacks objective
Complies
•
The upper floor of Dwelling 5 to the eastern boundary is recessed 1.5m increasing to 3.1m with a maximum wall height of less than 5.0m.
To ensure that the height and setback of a building from a boundary respects the existing or preferred neighbourhood character and limits the impact on the amenity of existing dwellings. Standard B17
Walls on boundaries objective
Complies
•
The garage serving Dwelling 1 is set against the northern boundary for a distance of 6.4m with a maximum wall height of 3.0m.
To ensure that the location, length and height of a wall on a boundary respects the existing or preferred neighbourhood character and limits the impact on the amenity of existing dwellings. Standard B18
The garage serving Dwelling 5 is set against the eastern boundary for a distance of 6.4m and maximum height of 3.0m.
Daylight to existing windows objective
Complies
•
The development provides adequate setbacks to adjoining habitable room windows.
To allow adequate daylight into existing habitable room windows. Standard B19
North-facing windows objective •
N/A
To allow adequate solar access to existing northfacing habitable room windows. Standard B20
Overshadowing open space objective
Complies
•
Shadow diagrams have been submitted demonstrate compliance with this standard.
To ensure buildings do not significantly overshadow existing secluded private open space. Standard B21
which
Overlooking objective
Complies
•
Upper floor windows with views to adjoining properties are demonstrated to be provided with fixed obscure glazing to a height of 1.7m above finished floor level.
To limit views into existing secluded private open space and habitable room windows. Standard B22
Internal views objective
Complies
•
Upper floor windows with views to internal outdoor living areas are demonstrated to be provided with fixed obscure glazing to a height of 1.7m above finished floor level.
To limit views into the secluded private open space and habitable room windows of dwellings and residential buildings within a development. Standard B23
Noise impacts objectives
Complies
•
The proposal does not contain any noise sources likely to cause amenity impacts to adjoining properties.
To contain noise sources in developments that may
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 247
4.2
Attachment 3: Clause 55 Assessment
Attachment 3
Item: 4.2
4.2
Item: 4.2
•
Attachment 3: Clause 55 Assessment
affect existing dwellings. To protect residents from external noise. Standard B24
Attachment 3
Clause 55.05 (On-site Amenity and Facilities) Accessibility objective
Conditions Required
•
In accordance with Councils living housing guidelines one dwelling is capable of being modified to comply. Dwellings 1 and 2 include ground floor bedrooms and associated bathroom areas which can be modified to demonstrate compliance.
To encourage the consideration of the needs of people with limited mobility in the design of developments. Standard B25
Dwelling entry objective
Complies
•
Each dwelling is provided with a sheltered porch entrance which provides a sense of identity and is identifiable from the street.
To provide each dwelling or residential building with its own sense of identity. Standard B26
Daylight to new windows objective
Conditions Required
•
Dwelling 4 has living room windows presenting to the west with a 1.0m setback to the wall of Dwelling 3, with the introduction of eves these windows would not comply with this standard. However, additional windows are provided to the north of these living areas which ensures adequate solar access.
To allow adequate daylight into new habitable room windows. Standard B27
With regards to Dwelling 1, Bedroom 2 is required to provide highlight windows which present to the east and south. It is considered that a permit condition which deletes this bedroom and thus requires it to be relocated to the front of the site (in place of the retreat room) would result in improved internal amenity and more satisfactory solar access. As such, permit conditions could ensure compliance with this standard.
Private open space objective
Complies
•
Dwelling 1: Courtyard 49m 2 Dwelling 2: Courtyard 44m and additional service yard 2 18.0m 2 Dwelling 3: Courtyard 40.0m 2 Dwelling 4: Courtyard 93m 2 Dwelling 5: Courtyard 84m
To provide adequate private open space for the reasonable recreation and service needs of residents. Standard B28
2
All courtyards demonstrate widths of 3.0m and comply with this standard. Courtyards are all accessed from main living areas.
Solar access to open space objective
Complies
•
Dwellings 1, 3, 4 and 5 have courtyards with orientation to the north.
To allow solar access into the secluded private open space of new dwellings and residential buildings. Standard B29
Dwelling 2 has a courtyard set to the south of Dwelling 1. The wall height of Dwelling 1 is approximately 6.1m, as such the required southern boundary setback of the open space to Dwelling 2 should be 7.49m, the setback is 7.6m approximately. As such, the proposal complies with this standard.
Storage objective
Conditions Required
•
Storage has been demonstrated within the outdoor area or
To provide adequate storage facilities for each
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Attachment 3: Clause 55 Assessment
dwelling. Standard B30
garages of all dwellings with the exception of Dwelling 1. A permit condition can require storage shown to Dwelling 1 in the service area provided.
4.2
Item: 4.2
Design detail objective
Conditions Required
•
Conditions would be necessary to modify the roof form to be more in keeping with the traditional pitched concrete tile. Conditions would also require the submission of a colours schedule to ensure muted and non-reflective tones are used.
To encourage design detail that respects the existing or preferred neighbourhood character. Standard B31
Permit conditions associated with modifying the front wall of Dwelling 3 to have it recessed from the ground floor by 1.0m also aid articulation and improve the façade design. The mix of brick and render is consistent with emerging building forms. Habitable room windows present to the streetscape. Porched entrances provide a sense of address and create identifiable properties in the sense of the streetscape. However, the proposal introduces a number of sheer walls in particular to Dwelling 2 and Dwelling 1. In the case of Dwelling 2 the sheer wall element presents to the street and is considered to be contrary to the established and preferred built forms in the area. The sheer wall element attributed to Bedroom 2 of Dwelling 1 could be addressed by the deletion of this bedroom. The deletion of the bedroom would result in the reduction in the overall bulk of the upper floor, deletion of the shared wall and improved solar access to the south. The bedroom could by relocated to replace the retreat space and thus be provided with better outlook to the street. It is considered that permit conditions in part could address this variation.
Front fences objective •
N/A
To encourage front fence design that respects the existing or preferred neighbourhood character. Standard B32
Common property objectives • •
N/A
To ensure that communal open space, car parking, access areas and site facilities are practical, attractive and easily maintained. To avoid future management difficulties in areas of common ownership. Standard B33
Site services objectives
Complies
•
Mail boxes, clothes lines, refuse storage, rain water tanks and other services are all demonstrated as provided to each dwelling. Services are obscured from the street and are easily maintained.
•
To ensure that site services can be installed and easily maintained. To ensure that site facilities are accessible, adequate and attractive. Standard B34
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Attachment 3
Clause 55.06 (Detailed Design)
Attachment 1: BEAC February 2016 Notes
6.1
Item: 6.1
BANYULE ENVIRONMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Attachment 1
MEETING NOTES 09 February 2016 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Community Representatives:
(Interim Chair) Kate Roberts, Alan Leenaerts, Jonathan Thom, Matt Hall, Denise Fernando, Maree Keenan, Peter Castaldo.
Council Officers:
Daniel Kollmorgen, John Milkins
Councillor Representatives/Attendees:
1. Apologies
Cr Mark Di Pasquale, Cr Steve Briffa, Cr Craig Langdon
John D’Aloia
2. Call for Interim Chair KR nominated. DF, AL carried. 3. New BEAC Councillor representative Cr Mark Di Pasquale was introduced as the BEAC Councillor Representative with Cr Steve Briffa as the Deputy. 4. Confirmation of October meeting notes AL, JT 5. Disclosures of Interest NIL 6. Matters arising from previous meetings 14.34 Divestment BEAC noted that articles on Council’s Divestment Policy had appeared in the Leader newspaper (front page) and in the Banyule Banner. BEAC encouraged further opportunities be sought to promote Council’s position such as through the MAV, and on electronic display boards in Council offices. 15.26 Waste Minimisation in Banyule (PC) PC noted that the local business ReUp needed support to continue its operation and the positive impact of precycling hard to recycle materials. 20 waste streams are currently being precycled. Actions PC to provide further information regarding the business model of ReUp and its needs. ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 250
Attachment 1: BEAC February 2016 Notes
DK to refer to Manager Economic Development to determine if Council can provide advice.
6.1
Item: 6.1
DK to invite Manager Waste to upcoming BEAC to provide an overview of Banyule Waste service.
7. New Business
AL addressed a precis of the Paris climate summit as per the following media report: https://theconversation.com/the-paris-climate-agreement-at-a-glance-50465 The key points: 1/ all countries now agree we have a really big problem with carbon pollution. 2/ we must leave > 80% of remaining fossil fuels in the ground 3/ we must strive for zero emissions if the planet is to be habitable in 100 years time! 4/ rich countries must contribute more financially from now forward 5/ a whole of society response is reqd. BEAC discussed 10 points from the University of Melbourne:
http://sustainable.unimelb.edu.au/post-paris BEAC noted its concern that there might be a shift in emphasis to adaptation rather than continued mitigation efforts. Cr Di Pasquale encouraged the communication of practical everyday energy saving measures that the broad community could understand. AL noted that Beyond Zero Emissions have mitigation solutions in the stationery energy, transport, Building and land use sectors that would significantly progress climate action. BEAC encouraged Council to regularly report on its energy performance. JM noted that Council has an adopted Energy Plan, developed with BEACs input. This has a target of Carbon Neutrality in Council operations by 1919/20. Council reports its progress in the annual State of Environment report and Annual Report. Actions AL to bring a Beyond Zero Emissions case study to BEAC and note its relevance to opportunities mitigation in across Council and community activities. JM to provide an estimate of the cost to Council to increase its purchase of accredited Greenpower for electricity use from 10%- 100%. BEAC to draft an advocacy position regarding the closure of Hazelwood Power Station for consideration at the next meeting. 16.02 State of Environment Report (All) BEAC provided input in to the draft 2014-15 State of Environment Report in each of the category areas. ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL ON 7 MARCH 2016 Page 251
Attachment 1
16.01 Beyond Paris (AL)
6.1
Item: 6.1
Attachment 1: BEAC February 2016 Notes
Action JM to incorporate BEAC input into the SoE where possible for presentation to Council before publishing on the Banyule website.
Other business
Attachment 1
16.03 Appreciation for departing Council staff and BEAC Councillor Representatives BEAC noted that the Environmental Sustainability unit positions of Environment Officer (Fleur Anderson) and the Resource Conservation Officer (Clayton Simpson) were soon to become vacant as staff moved to new jobs in other municipalities. BEAC expressed heartfelt appreciation to Fleur and Clayton for their efforts at Banyule, and wishes them all the best in their new roles. BEAC also expressed its sincere thanks for the contribution to the Committee by Crs Briffa and Langdon as the BEAC Council Representatives. Action KR to prepare letters of appreciation for JM to forward. 16.04 Waste and litter avoidance at Banyule Festivals and Events BEAC discussed waste avoidance and minimisation including litter reduction, plastic use and balloons at Banyule festivals and events, and recommended that Council continue to investigate methods to improve event waste outcomes. Action: DK to Advise on current Council policy with regard to waste avoidance at festivals.
Meeting Finished 9.33 pm Contact John Milkins on 9457 9834 for further information Next meeting: Wednesday 9 March, 2016 Rosanna Offices
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6.4
Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
6.4
Item: 6.4
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6.4
Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 1
6.4
Item: 6.4
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6.4
Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
6.4
Item: 6.4
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6.4
Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
6.4
Item: 6.4
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6.4
Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 1
6.4
Item: 6.4
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6.4
Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
6.4
Item: 6.4
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6.4
Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
6.4
Item: 6.4
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6.4
Attachment 1: Election Period Policy - Draft
Attachment 1
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 2: Election Period Policy - Human Rights Assessment
Attachment 2
6.4
Item: 6.4
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6.4
Attachment 2: Election Period Policy - Human Rights Assessment
Attachment 2
Item: 6.4
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Attachment 1: Community Bulletin - 14-18 Livingstone Street - Fact Sheet
Attachment 1
6.5
Item: 6.5
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6.5
Attachment 1: Community Bulletin - 14-18 Livingstone Street - Fact Sheet
Attachment 1
Item: 6.5
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Attachment 1: Brochure - Flying with Control?
Attachment 1
8.1
Item: 8.1
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8.1
Attachment 1: Brochure - Flying with Control?
Attachment 1
Item: 8.1
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