Northcote Structure Plan - Urban Precinct Studio - ABPL30060 by Ella Anderson

NORTHCOTE STRUCTURE PLAN A social and ecological systems approach to planning for development

Prepared by Ella Anderson

NORTHCOTE STRUCTURE PLAN Urban Precinct Studio ABPL30060 Semester 2, 2019 Melbourne School of Design, The University of Melbourne Ella Anderson 757195

Acknowledgement of Country This plan analyses, strategises and was produced on land whose Traditional Custodians are the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. It is acknowledged these people have a long history and ongoing relationship with this land. This report seeks to create a vision for Northcote’s future, in which all First Nation’s people are given due recognition, involvement and support. It is also noted no direct consultation for this plan has involved Traditional Custodians due to the plan’s hypothetical nature, yet this plan aims to research and appropriately interpret Indigenous perspectives throughout.

CONTENTS PART ONE: INTRODUCTION 1

PART THREE: DIRECTION

STRUCTURE 1

POLICY 27

OVERVIEW 1

VISION 29

PURPOSE 2

PRINCIPLES 31

CONTEXT 3

OBJECTIVES 32

THE PRECINCT

HISTORY 7 DRIVING FORCES

PART TWO: ANALYSIS 9

PART FOUR: PROPOSAL

STRUCTURE PLAN

USE AND DENSITY

BUILT FORM REGULATIONS

SOCIAL PROFILE

MOVEMENT AND ACCESS

ECONOMIC PROFILE

STREETS AND SPACES

ZONING 12 BUILT FORM

TRANSPORT 15 GREEN SPACE

NATURAL FEATURES

ISSUES 23 OPPORTUNITIES 25

PART FIVE: IMPLEMENTATION 59 PROCESS 59 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

SCHEDULE 61

PART SIX: CONCLUSION

SUMMARY 63 REFERENCES 65

Acknowledgements I would like to thank my tutor Madhu Lakshmanan for his invaluable guidance and support throughout this subject. Thank you to my group members Anita Ye and Felicity Karakiklas for their enthusiasm, hard work and contribution to parts one and two of the plan.

PART ONE: INT

STRUCTURE

OVER

PART ONE

INTRODUCTION This section provides a contextual background of Northcote over time.

‘Northcote will be a thrivin accessible, connec

PART TWO

ANALYSIS This section analyses Northcote’s social and economic profile as well as physical characteristics.

The Northcote Structure Plan proposes a social and ecological vision for Northcote’s future growth. This plan analyses past and

PART THREE

DIRECTION The vision and objectives for Northcote’s future growth is discussed.

current social, environmental and urban conditions as well as local and global driving forces to reach this conceptual vision. Strong political and community values towards climate

PART FOUR

PROPOSAL Key actions that aim to achieve the vision are illustrated.

PART FIVE

change action have also aided the formation of this approach. The premise of a social and ecological system is to integrate human and natural

IMPLEMENTATION

environments to create mutually beneficial

The process of applying the actions into practice is proposed within the planning system.

outcomes. The three principles of access, connectivity and sustainability are intended

PART SEVEN

CONCLUSION This section provides an overview of the plan.

PART ONE - INTRODUCTION

TRODUCTION

PURPOSE

RVIEW

ng social ecological system: cted and sustainable.’

to permeate throughout the plan. These principles envisage a Northcote that is accessible for all, connected by land use, transport and greening networks with sustainable living practices and development approaches. The plan provides a framework based on the key themes of use and density, built form regulations, movement and access, and streets and spaces. The resulting actions aim to provide practical planning proposals specific to Northcote’s local concerns and global responsibility. The goal of the proposal is to enable a future Northcote which functions as a

The Northcote Structure Plan is intended to create a vision for Northcote’s future with clear strategic directions and actions regarding global trends and local issues. As stated in the Darebin Planning Scheme (2019) structure planning aims to ‘facilitate the orderly development of urban areas (Clause 11.02-2S). Specifically, the areas of environment, transport, housing, development and social infrastructure are interrogated in terms of existing conditions and proposals to achieve the vision. The development of this Structure Plan is necessary as the Northcote Activity Centre Structure Plan (2007) was published in 2007, 12 years ago, and was specifically relevant for the activity centre (City of Darebin). Additionally, there has been no comprehensive and specific Structure Plan for the suburb of Northcote, as the recent Darebin Council Plan (2017-2021) provides guidance for the entire municipality. Global and local issues are constantly changing and so strategies must reflect current community values and address relevant issues. Therefore, a current, comprehensive and site-specific PSP is needed to strategise for Northcote’s future to ensure a positive outcome for community and environment.

thriving social and ecological system.

CONTEXT Northcote is an inner-ring northern suburb situated in the council area of the City of Darebin in Melbourne. The precinct is located approximately 7km from the Central Business District of Melbourne (CBD) (City of Darebin, 2019). Northcote is located 6km from the key economic and employment centres of La Trobe and 6km from Parkville, both designated as National Employment and Innovation Clusters in Plan Melbourne 2017-2050. Darebin is an inner council area with strong connections to the CBD, via train and tram, and to northern and north-eastern outer and fringe suburbs. The City of Darebin is characterised by its diverse population, health, education and industrial areas and significant parklands (DEWLP, 2018, Clause 21.01-1). Notably, Darebin features significant ecological assets, concentrated around Merri Creek forming the western boundary and

Darebin Creek the east, flowing into the Yarra River at the south. Northcote is the most southern suburb of Darebin and encompasses Darebinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s key characteristics. The northern region of Melbourne has a significantly growing population particularly on the urban fringe (DJPR, 2019). A comparative analysis was conducted of Northcote, Reservoir and Epping all within the northern region and located at varying points along the CBD-Mernda train line. Comparatively, it is evident Northcote is a densely populated suburb with a significant proportion of highly educated individuals and resulting high household income. Reservoir and Epping appear at a contrasting points in their suburb lifecycle, Northcote being an established affluent area, Reservoir gentrifying and Epping being newly established.

01.01: GREATER

MELBOURNE CONTEXT 2 AREA = 9990km + POPULATION = 4.9 million + DENSITY = 2 497 people per km AGE = 36 years old HOUSEHOLD INCOME = $1,542 p/w

Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) Inner Ring Middle Ring Outer Ring

PART ONE - INTRODUCTION

NORTH

12.5

50KM

Comparative Analysis

FACTOR

GREATER MELBOURNE

NORTHCOTE (Darebin)

RESERVOIR (Darebin)

(Whittlesea)

POPULATION DENSITY Per hectare

4.97

45.49

28.77

6.88

27.5%

46.7%

22.7%

18.1%

$1,542

$1,868

$1,197

$1,409

EPPING

AGE Average

EDUCATION Bachelor degree or above

HOUSEHOLD INCOME Average per week

0102: DAREBIN

2 AREA = 53km + POPULATION = 161,609 + DENSITY = 2 3,024 people per km AGE = 36 years old HOUSEHOLD INCOME = $1,432 p/w

0103: Northco

THE PRECINCT The Northcote precinct totals an area of 6km2 and is approximately 3km in width and length. Northcote borders the inner suburbs of Clifton Hill, North Fitzroy, Brunswick East, Thornbury and Fairfield. The suburb is relatively well connected by public transport including two train, two tram and multiple bus services.

2 3

3 4 The precinct is characterised by the undulating topography of Northcote. High Street forms a ridge between two local valleys known as Ruckerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hill. One valley drains south-west into Merri Creek while the other drains south-east towards the Yarra River and Darebin Creek. These areas feature significant native vegetation and are habitats for wildlife. Merri Creek forms the western and southern precinct boundary.

5 Path Edge Node Landmark DISTRICT

PART ONE - INTRODUCTION

NORTH

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ote Context Northcote is characterised by its heritage buildings, dating from the early colonial settlement of Melbourne, and consisting of Victoria, Edwardian and Inter-War architecture (City of Darebin, 2008). Northcoteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s was formerly an industrial area yet as economic conditions change high-density development is emerging, resulting in contemporary architectural styles (DELWP, 2018, Clause, 21.01-2).

7 8

8 7

9 Commercial, retail, community and educational services are concentrated in central Northcote, located along High Street and Northcote Plaza. The Northcote Activity Centre is classified as a Major Activity Centre being one of 121 within as stated in Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 (p.53). The activity centre is a focal node of the neighbourhood and includes a catchment area of Clifton Hill, North Fitzroy, Brunswick and Ivanhoe.

10 6

HISTORY Traditional Custodians Before 1835

GAYIP

The Aboriginal Period

Spiritual beliefs were developed from the eagle, known as Bunjil, and cultural practices and social systems are intrinsically connected the landscape which is known to have been cultivated by Indigenous people for millennia.

SETTLER

The Convict Period

Colonisation 1835 - 1870

MELBOURNE BEAUTY

The Traditional Custodians of the land on which Northcote sits are the Wurundjeri people, who are part of the larger cultural and linguistic group the Kulin Nation.

The Gold Rushes

The site of initial contact between Aboriginal people and John Batman is believed to be in Darebin, which led to the colonisation of Melbourne and resulting massacres and displacement of Aboriginal people. The earliest surviving buildings in Northcote were built during the establishment of Northcote as a suburb. Churches and cemeteries are significant as they provide evidence of the early settler immigrant groups in Northcote.

Assisted Migration

Economic Boom 1870 - 1910

WALKER + HIS TUCKER BAG

URBAN WHEEL European Migration

Refugees

The development of railways and the tram network had a significant influence on the pattern of settlement that extended north along the key routes of St Georges Road, the north-south railway line and High Street.

Becoming a City

1910 - 1950

RUNNING COUPLE

Economic prosperity increased and people sought residential lands which expanded urban areas.

During the inter-war period, Darebin entered its most significant phase of development and by 1914 Northcote had been proclaimed a city. The ‘Garden Suburb’ housing estates were constructed along key transport and High Street developed into a major retail area. Indigenous people were moving back into Darebin in search of opportunities, driven by the 1930s Depression and Second World War.

BUTTERFLY GIRL

WALKING SUN Australian Multiculturalism

1950 - present

Asian and Middle East Migration

Socio-Cultural Awareness Cultural institutions in Northcote are significant as they reflect the multicultural character of the area and highlight social change such as: Social clubs demonstrate the development of Northcote into a culturally diverse suburb Places of worship that display the influence of immigration The conservation movement that actively protects Northcote’s waterways and parklands

01.04: Karim Nadim. (2006). The Traveller’s: Sandridge Bridge, Melbourne.

PART ONE - INTRODUCTION

Based on the information provided by the City of Darebin Heritage Study (2007).

DRIVING FORCES

Climate Change As global temperatures rise all urban communities face the effects of a more severe climate and must adapt to cope with this change (ARUP Foresight, 2014, p.26). Within the Melbourne region this is expected to result in more extreme weather as well as pressure on food and services availability, human and animal health, water scarcity and the economy (City of Darebin, 2017, p.13). In 2016 Darebin unanimously agreed upon declaring a climate emergency, being the first council in Australia to do so, meaning the ‘council recognises that we are in a state of climate emergency that requires urgent action by all levels of government, including by local councils’ (City of Darebin, 2016, p.46). Strong community values of environmental sustainability and climate activism underly council actions, which is evident in the community organisation of the ‘Drown-In’ protest on the 29th September advocating for climate justice on a wider scale and closing off High Street for hours.

Population Growth Greater Melbourne is experiencing population growth, consisting of a high birth rate and significant overseas migration, with a forecast of an additional 4 million residents by 2056 (DELWP, 2019, p.4). Melbourne’s reputation as one of the most ‘liveable cities’ in the world is under threat if this growth is not appropriately planned for. Northcote’s population is estimated to increase by 27% by 2041, with an additional 7,415 residents (IDCommunity, 2019). As stated in the Darebin Planning Scheme (DELWP, 2019) population growth will have flow on effects, with increased strain on housing supply, affordability and infrastructure (Clause 21.01-2).

Indigenous Recognition Significantly, Indigenous people living in Darebin make up 5% of the larger Indigenous population in Melbourne (City of Darebin, 2017, p.39). Darebin advocates for Indigenous rights and recognition, which is evident in the council opposing Australian Day on January 26th due to the day marking the ‘beginning of invasion and dispossession’ rather calling a different day for celebration (City of Darebin, 2019). Also, the council is promoting a name change for the electorate of Batman and Batman Park to ensure a name that better reflects Wurundjeri people rather than a settler-colonialist (City of Darebin, 2019).

01.05: All images of posters taken around Northcote.

PART TWO: ANALYSIS

SOCIAL PROFILE 27,445 people were living in Northcote in 2018, and this number is expected to increase by 27% with an additional 7,415 residents by 2041 (ProfileID, 2018). Significantly, the 25-49 year old age range accounts for 45% of the total population (ProfileID, 2018).

Household Type 2016

2041

Age Structure FEMALE MALE

85+

Couple Families with Dependents Couple Families without Dependents Group Households Lone Person Households One Parent Families Other

70-84 60-69

Couple Families with Dependents Couple Families without Dependents Group Households Lone Person Households Lone households are expected to One Parent person Families Other remain the most dominant household type

50-59 35-49 25-34 18-24 12-17 5-11 0-4 -15.00% -10.00%

-5.00%

0.00%

5.00%

10.00%

15.00%

Northcote’s population is ageing, with 65 years and over age groups increasing, yet the ‘young workforce’ and ‘parents and homemakers’ groups are expected to remain the most dominant (ProfileID, 2018). Population Forecast

into the future, yet couples with dependents are expected to decrease and couples without dependents gradually increase (ProfileID, 2018). This trend illustrates how household structures change as dependents move out, and although this trend is incremental, this change may affect housing demand. Population Change 5000 4500 4000 3500 3000 2500

250000

2000 1500

200000

1000 500

150000

DAREBIN 100000

50000

NORTHCOTE

2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031 2036 2041

PART TWO - ANALYSIS

0 2017-2021 2022-2026 2027-2031 2032-2036 20137-2041 Net Migration

Natural Increase/Decrease

Births

Deaths

Northcote’s population change due to migration is forecast to decline (ProfileID, 2018). The Australian Bureau of Statistics found in the 2016 Census 35% of Northcote residents were born overseas.

Demographics

Community Facilities

Darebin prides itself as being home to a diverse population, with 5% of Indigenous Melbourne residents living in the municipality (City of Darebin, 2017, p.39). Northcote, is one of Darebinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most multicultural suburbs with ancestry from England, Ireland, Scotland and Greece as well as languages spoken other than English including Greek, Italian, Mandarin, Vietnamese and Arabic (ABS, 2016).

Northcoteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community facilities include schools, places of worship and Indigenous and community support organisations. The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage area designates country that is particularly significant to Indigenous groups (DELWP, 2019, Clause 15.03-2S), yet this spatial approach may not necessarily convey all aspects of Indigenous spirituality and culture.

0201: Community

Facilities

1 2 PLAZA

RECREATION CENTRE

LIBRARY

4 TOWN HALL

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage

Precinct

Victorian Aboriginal Community Services

Major Locations

Community Health Initiative

Community Facilities

Merri Outreach Support Group

Schools

4 5

Victorian Aboriginal Education Association

Medical Facilities Places of Worship

Jika Jika Community Centre 400 Metre Catchment

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ECONOMIC PROFILE 47% of Northcote residents have a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree or higher, this is significant as it is 19% above the Greater Melbourne average (ABS, 2015). This correlates with the main occupation types being within the skilled labour force (ABS, 2016). 4.7% of Northcote residents are 100% unemployed less than the Melbourne average (Profile ID, 2016). 90%

Income 30

15 80%

Occupation

60%

100%

100% 10 90% 100%

100% 50%

90%

80% 5 90%

90% 40%

80%

70% 80%

80% 30%

70%

0 60% 70%

70% 20%

60%

50% 60%

60% 10%

50%

40% 50%

40%

30% 40%

70%

50% 0% 2006

2011

2016

Machinery Operators and Drivers

30%

Labourers Sales Workers 2006 Workers Technicians and Trades

40%

20% 2011

20% 10% 2016

10% Community and Personal Service Workers Machinery Operators and Drivers 0% 2006 2016 2011 2016 Clerical2006 and Administration Workers 2011 0% Labourers 2006 Managers Machinery 2016 2011 Machinery Operators Operators and Driversand Drivers Sales Workers Professionals Machinery Operators and Drivers Labourers Labourers Technicians and Trades Workers Labourers

Northcote

Darebin

Household income in Northcote is significantly than the Darebin and Greater Melbourne 10% average (ProfileID, 2016). Just over half of 20% residents own their own home while 37% of 0% 10% residents rent (ABS, 2016). The vast majority of 0% mortgage and rent payments, upwards of 88%, are considered affordable being below 30% of total household income. 20% 30% higher

Sales Workers Sales Workers Community and Personal Service Workers

Sales Workers Technicians Trades Workers TechniciansClerical and Trades Workers and and Administration Workers Technicians and TradesCommunity Workers and Personal Service Workers Community and Personal Service Workers Managers

Place of Employment

Community and Personal Service Workers Clerical and Administration Clerical andProfessionals Administration Workers Workers Clerical and Administration Workers Managers Managers Managers Professionals Professionals The majority of Northcote

residents work outside of the City of Darebin, with a significant proportion commuting into Melbourneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre (ABS, 2016). There is an employment mismatch between residents skill set and local jobs offered as some of primary industries within the Darebin include retail and manufacturing compared with a large proportion of Northcote residents being professionals (EconomyID, 2016). Professionals

Melbourne

Other

Whittlesea Moreland Yarra

PART TWO - ANALYSIS

Darebin Banyule

ZONING The land use of the Northcote Precinct is primarily residential, accounting for approximately 70% of the total area. As shown in figure 11.01, the Northcote Activity Centre encompasses the concentration of commercial activity occurring along the north south axis of High Street and the primary retail centre of Northcote Plaza situated beside All Nation’s Park. This Major Activity Centre is recognised as a ‘suburban focal

point for services, employment, housing, public transport and social interaction’ as defined by Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 (2016, p.139). Additionally, mixed use and retail activity occur along the major roadway of St. George’s Road. Industrial areas occupy only 1.4% of the precinct and are mainly located on the periphery. Public use and recreation zones, such as parks and schools, occupy the edge of the southern and western precinct boundary as defined by Merri Creek.

02.02: Zoning

Precinct

Road Zone RDZ

General Residential GRZ

Industrial INZ

Neighbourhood Residential NRZ

Public Park and Recreation PCRZ

Residential Growth RGZ

Public Use PUZ

Mixed Use MUZ

Urban Floodway UFZ

Commercial C1Z

Northcote Activity Centre

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1203: Building

BUILT FORM Northcote is characterised by its colonial residential architectural styles, with earlier styles such as Victorian and Edwardian clustering around train and tram lines as shown in figure 12.03. The heritage overlay also reflects this trend as heritage buildings are primarily located in Northcoteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s west. Warehouses are often located on the periphery, and some sites of which are being redeveloped into medium density residential resulting in a significant typology shift. The single-storey sprawling Northcote Plaza, constructed in the 1980s, contrasts the fine grain retail shops of High Street. 0203: Built

B A

Main street attached retail

Low rise detached house

0205: Neighbourh

Form Overlays

A Precinct

Heritage HO 0204: Maximum

Design & Development DDO

Building Heights

Dwelling Density

Substantial housing chang

Precinct

13 PART TWO - ANALYSIS

11m

13.5m

Precinct

Inter-War/Post-War

Victorian/Edwardian

Post-War

Victorian/Edwardian/Inter-War

1990-2000s

Victorian/Edwardian/Inter-War/Post-War

Mixed Styles

Inter-War

Heritage Overlay

g Typologies

Factory/ warehouse

Sprawling shopping centre

hood Character

Planning policy, as stated in the Darebin Planning Scheme, limits building heights in Northcoteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s west due heritage constraints and low-rise character (DELWP, 2018, Clause 32.09). However, the High Street and St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road corridors, both located in the west, are marked as substantial change areas (City of Darebin, 2013, p.75). This continual trend of redevelopment along public transport routes generates the need for further consideration of how protected heritage characteristics are integrated with contemporary architecture, as acknowledged in the Darebin Housing Strategy (City of Darebin, 2013, p.58). Additionally it is noted the need to strengthen the Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) framework within the planning scheme (City of Darebin, 2013, p.64).

NORTH

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TRANSPORT 0207: Travel

NORTHCOTE AVERAGE

to Work Composition

VICTORIAN AVERAGE

Northcote’s public transport system is highly used with usage of trains, trams and bikes above the Victorian average (ABS, 2016). As is evident by figure 14.02 the catchment of the train, tram and bus network results in the vast majority of residents within a walkable distance of public transport. Residents living along St. George’s Road and High Street particularly benefit from northsouth routes of trains and trams. Darebin’s Transport Strategy 2017-2027 considers the need to locate developments close to existing transport infrastructure, to increase active transport modes and improve social inclusion through transport equity (2007, 0208: Public

Precinct Train Station 800m Train Catchment Tram Stop 400m Tram Catchment Bus Stop 400m Bus Catchment

15 PART TWO - ANALYSIS

NORTHCOTE AVERAGE

VICTORIAN AVERAGE

p.5-6). The lack of transport infrastructure east to west results in residents in Northcote’s northeast being particularly disadvantaged as buses are the most dominant form of transport yet the most infrequent, as shown in figure 15.01. The strategy also identifies safety for pedestrians, cyclists and cars as an issue particularly at the intersection of Merri Parade and St. George’s Road and Separation Street and High Street (City of Darebin, 2007, p.19). A strategy to increase cycling trips is to ‘complete missing links throughout the network’ which is evident as a continuing problem in Northcote as shown in figure 15.01 (City of Darebin, 2007, p.15).

Transport Catchment

0208: Public

Transport Frequency

Precinct Frequency Good Moderate Poor Usage

Route Train Tram

High

Bus

Moderate

Bike (on-road)

Low

Bike (separate path)

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0209: Gree

GREEN SPACE Northcote’s green space accounts for 12% of the total precinct area or 75 hectares, consisting of parks, nature trails and sporting facilities. Green space is concentrated along Merri Creek and primarily in the form of nature trails. One of the largest parks, All Nation’s, is centrally located adjacent to Northcote Plaza and comprises of 12.19 hectares with basketball courts, a skating park, playgrounds and barbeque facilities with significant natural vegetation. This network of large parks also includes small local parks dispersed throughout the precinct.

Northcote Public Golf Course

Gumbri Park Northcote Station

Peter’s Reserve

Merri Park

Baden Morgan Reserve Green Reserve

2 Green space is well catered for, as the vast majority of residents are within a five minute walk as per Plan Melbourne 2017-2050’s policy of ‘network of accessible, high-quality, local spaces’ (p.103). As discussed in previous sections, the trends of population growth and higher density residential development will have effects on green space. The City of Darebin emphasises the need for land acquisition for parks and upgrading existing green space (2019, p.102). Additionally, as stated in Darebin’s Open Space Strategy (2018) with population growth expected to increase in the 65+ age bracket this must be catered for in terms of facilities and accessibility (p.105). 17 PART TWO - ANALYSIS

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Precinct

Community Garden

Park

Outside Green Space 400m Catchment

Sporting Facility

Green Space outside of Precinct

Nature Trail

24.34

All Nation’s Park

12.19

McDonnell Park

6.13

Oldis Gardens and Northcote Park

5.73

Johnson Park

2.10

Rubie Thomson Reserve

1.75

Gumbri Park

1.64

Northcote Station

0.36

Baden Morgan Reserve

0.26

Peter’s Reserve

0.17

Derby Reserve

0.07

Access

Northcote Public Golf Course

Ecology

Area (ha)

Aesthetic

Green Space Quality

Maintenance

Field observations concluded Northcote’s green spaces range in quality. While some, such as Gumbri Park, are highly catered for in terms of facilities, access, maintenance, ecology and aesthetic, other parks were poorly maintained with rubbish, inconsistent planting and lack of plant care.

Facilities

en Space

All Nation’s Park

McDonell Park

1 Rubie Thomson Reserve

Derby Reserve

Very Good

Good

Fair

Poor

Very Poor

Johnson Park

Oldis Gardens and Northcote Park

4 City of Darebin (2014) supports community gardens, as a way of promoting healthy eating, encouraging positive community connections and a means to improve food security (p.2). City of Darebin facilitates these community initiatives through programs such as Sustainable Homes

and Communities the Food Harvest Network and the Nature Strip Program. The Nature Strip Program, particularly, encourages locals to get involved in growing their own food as well as actively beautifying their street (City of Darebin, 2014). 18

NATURAL FEATURES Northcote is characterised by undulating topography and is centrally positioned atop Rucker’s Hill, a natural promontory at an elevation of 64m. High Street passes along Rucker’s Hill creating an impressive view of Melbourne’s CBD. A valley drains south west into Merri Creek while the other drains south east towards the Yarra River and Darebin Creek. Merri Creek is an important area for native wildlife and vegetation and its interests are protected by the community group Friends of Merri Creek (Friends of Merri Creek, n.d.). Extensive trails run along the Merri Creek, connecting north and south, yet the creek may act as a barrier preventing access across to adjacent western suburbs. It should also be noted that human intervention, such as the train lines and St. George’s Road, have significantly altered the natural topography. Northcote is categorised within the Victorian Volcanic Plain bioregion of which most of Northcote is within the ‘Plains Grassy Woodland’ Ecological Vegetation Class which describes pre-contact ecological conditions (DELWP, 2019). Plains Grassy Woodland is characterised as ‘open, eucalypt woodland’ with a ‘sparse shrub’

0210 Environmental

understorey and rich grassland (Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2004, p.35). The land surrounding Merri Creek is categorised as ‘Swampy Riparian Woodland’ featuring Swamp Gum, Blackwood and Wattle (Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2004, p.55). The Nature Kit developed by DELWP classifies the land surrounding Merri Creek as being of Strategic Biodiversity Value and highlights the fragmentation of biodiversity in urban areas (DELWP, 2019). Environmental overlays as classified by the Darebin Planning Scheme respond to the potential risk and strengths of the natural features of the precinct. It is evident that specific areas are risk of flooding due to topography and land formerly used for industrial purposes may be contaminated. Although Northcote has an established tree canopy, as stated in Darebin’s Climate Emergency Plan (2017) it is imperative to further ‘increase suitable tree canopy coverage to reduce the urban heat island effect’ to align with the council’s goal of responding to climate change (p.6).

Overlays

02:11:: Tree

10% Environmental Significance ESO Environmental Audit EAO

19 PART TWO - ANALYSIS

Special Building SBO Land Subject to Inudation LSIO

20%

30%

Canopy Cover

40%

50%

60%

B View from High Street towards CBD

View from All Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park

View along Merri Creek

0212: Natural

Features

Precinct Medium Tree Density Scattered Tree Density

NORTH

Contours Watercourse

0.25

0.5

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PUBLIC REALM Urban Heat Effect

0•C

2-5•C

5-10•C

10-15•C

15•C+

Interfaces

Street Infrastructure

High Street 21 PART TWO - ANALYSIS

Wimble Street, parallel to High Street 22

Lack of Pedestrian Priority Despite a significant proportion of residents cycling to work, bicycle infrastructure is not prioritised as is evident by informal or unsafe bicycle lanes and poor bicycle storage at train stations. Upon observation there appears to

ISSUES

Carbon Emissions The composition of carbon equivalent emissions is illustrated in figure 25.01 (City of Darebin, 2017, p.22). Although the municipalities’ has made progress to decrease emissions since 2009 these efforts must be furthered, especially considering population growth, to fulfil Darebin’s role in tackling the global issue of climate change (City of Darebin, 2017, p.23). 02.13: Darebin

Transport

0214: Issues

Emissions

Commercial/ Industrial Gas

Waste Commercial/ Industrial Electricity

Residential Electricity

Residential Gas

City of Darebin. (2019). Darebin Community Emissions 2015.16.

Urban Heat Effect Northcote Plaza and industrial areas of Arthurton Road are particularly prone to the urban heat effect, which describes urban areas experiencing higher temperatures due to lack of permeable surfaces or cooling mechanisms (ARUP, 2014, p.106). This issue is likely to become more evident with more extreme weather, such as hot summers and heatwaves, with the potential to result increased energy demand, detrimental health, effects and contaminated air and water (ARUP, 2014, p.106). Urban heat 10-15•C

23 PART TWO - ANALYSIS

Neglected Neighbourhood Retail Areas Northcote’s retail activity, commercial and community services are concentrated along the central axis of High Street, yet smaller neighbourhood retail areas appear to be neglected. The retail areas of St. George’s Road, Victoria Road and Dennis appear uninviting

& Oppo

be a lack of consideration of the pedestrian experience, especially at major intersections as illustrated by 24.02, due to vehicle dominance and contributing to poor pedestrian safety and accessibility Crossings with poor pedestrian amenity

Recognition and Inclusivity The effectiveness of governmental planning policy, at multiple levels, with regard to Indigenous culture is contentious. The academic Porter (2018) describes planning as maintain its settler-colonialist origins and not rightfully catering for other worldviews, especially in regard to land ownership and management practices.

ortunities Analysis Poor Transport Options Transport options in Northcote’s north-east are limited due to being outside of the train and tram catchment. Additionally, residents living in this area are disadvantaged by infrequent bus services as well as bus user generally by poor bus stop infrastructure. Poor bus frequency Missing cycling paths in network

Poor Integration of Green Space Green spaces within the inner precinct are largely disjointed, as opposed to the strong northsouth and south-east connections of the Merri Creek Trail. Yet there is little consideration of how movement is enabled between green spaces and functions as a network, such as between the key nodes of All Nation’s Park and McDonnell Reserve which includes the recreation centre. Additionally, there are areas with little tree canopy coverage especially located in key retail areas where walking is encouraged. Tree canopy coverage below 20% Lack of green connections

NORTH

0.25

0.5

due to vacant shops, lack of diversified use and poor public realm amenity resulting in lack of distinctive neighbourhood character. Residents living outside of the activity centre are disadvantaged due to lack of proximate and quality services. Neglected neighbourhood retail areas

Connections and Interfaces Key nodes lack visual and walkable connections, such as between High Street, Northcote Plaza and All Nation’s Park. There are little wayfinding devices, such as signs, marks in footpaths or sight lines to aid the readability of the streetscape. Also there are street frontages which lack visual engagement that could be improved upon through activation and increasing permeability which may contribute to neighbourhood character. Inactive/unattractive interface Lack of wayfinding

OPPORTUNITIES Refer to figure 021.14 Issues and Opportunities Analysis on page 23.

Reinvigorate Retail Areas There is an opportunity to maximise the prime position of Northcote Plaza to more effectively connect with other key nodes such as High Street, Separation Street and the adjacent All Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park. There is an existing network of neighbourhood retail areas that may be revitalised. St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, Victoria Road and Dennis are positioned in proximity to quality public transport services. Further development in these areas may contribute to the local economy of neighbourhoods and ease development Reinvigorate neighbourhood activity areas

Maximise Land Potential The sites that are vacant, disused or underutilised are identified as having the capacity to be developed for residential, green space or community uses are illustrated in figure 22.02. Particularly it is noted the prevalence of council owned car parks along High Street which may have greater community benefit as activated space alongside public transport improvements. Additionally, trainline corridors have the potential to be vegetation corridors and providing a buffer to housing while also increasing greenery. Under-utilised land

Build Upon Community Strengths Build upon local knowledge: empower Indigenous Australians through incorporating local knowledge and culture and further support local community groups. Consider future needs: plan and accommodate for future demographics, such as ageing population and reduced migration, in advance to ease pressure on services.

25 PART TWO - ANALYSIS

Activate Edges, Interfaces & Development Activate edges: create wayfinding strategies and activate the frontage of Northcote Plaza. Active edge

Create an architectural character: capitalise on development through encouraging an aesthetic style for this time period. Develop unique and diverse community spaces: encourage a range of user groups to freely linger in spaces for longer.

Make Connections There is an opportunity to create linkages between key nodes and develop an integrated streetscape. This would aim to particularly focus on accessible pedestrian paths, cycling routes and greening to form a cohesive network. The Merri Creek trail is an important asset and facet of Northcoteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character which could be further strengthened through integrating with other greenspaces. Develop networks: fill existing gaps in networks, such as the lack of cycling paths along Arthurton Road and Separation Street, and improve the frequency of buses, particularly on Victoria Road. Bike infrastructure at train stations could be improved to encourage multi-modality. Bike infrastructure improvements

St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road

Mernda Trainline Crossing Near Northcote Station 26

GOALS, PLANS AND STRATEGIES GLOBAL GOALS

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

STATE STRATEGY Sustainability Victoria Strategic Plan 20152020

METROPOLITAN MELBOURNE STRATEGY

PART THREE: DIRECTION

POLICY The Northcote Structure Plan is positioned within an existing hierarchy of policies that provide guidance on how to plan for global, state, metropolitan and council scale driving forces. This plan seeks to create a vision with objectives specific to the suburb of Northcote yet also respond to concerns on a larger scale.

Plan Melbourne 2017-2050

COUNCIL PLAN Darebin Council Plan 2017-2021

COUNCIL STRATEGIES Darebin Climate Emergency Action Plan Darebin Open Space Strategy Darebin Housing Strategy Darebin Transport Strategy

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals The United Nations the Sustainable Development Goals (2019) are shared global aspirations aimed to be reached by 2030. These goals target a range of worldwide issues, yet the goals relevant to the Northcote Structure Plan concern sustainable urban growth, resources and climate change such as (United Nations, 2019, p.10, 14, 16): ‘Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all’ ‘Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable’

PLACE-BASED COUNCIL STRATEGIES Northcote Activity Centre Structure Plan (2007) St. George’s Road Urban Design Framework (2013)

THE PLANNING SCHEME STATE PROVISIONS Planning Policy Framework

LOCAL PROVISIONS Local Planning Policy Framework (Darebin) 27 PART THREE - DIRECTION

‘Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts’

Sustainability Victoria Strategic Plan 2015-2020 This strategy proposes the vision ‘a sustainable, thriving Victoria’ with the focus on ‘enabling Victorians to act on climate change and to use resources efficiently’ (Sustainability Victoria, 2017, p.5). The strategy targets stakeholder including communities, households, businesses and schools with the aim to assist action on climate change and efficient resource use (Sustainability Victoria, 2017, p.9, 11). The following aims form the basis of the strategy (Sustainability Victoria, 2017, p. 10): ‘Increase energy efficiency and productivity’

‘Move to a clean electricity supply including 40% renewable energy by 2025’

‘Dramatically improve cycling and walking’

‘Electrify our economy and switch to clean fuels’

‘Establish a new Darebin Heritage Trust to create more open space across Darebin’

‘Reduce non-energy emissions and increase carbon storage’

‘Renew the Northcote Recreation and Aquatic Centre’

‘Build our resilience to climate change’

‘Increase our tree canopy and urban forest’

Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 is the Metropolitan Melbourne strategy to guide Melbourne’s growth into the future shaped by the vision ‘Melbourne will continue to be a global city of opportunity and choice’ (DELWP, 2017, p.1). This strategy acknowledges the driving forces affecting Melbourne’s future; population growth, economic change, housing affordability, transport infrastructure projects and climate change (DELWP, 2017, p.7-9). Particularly, the principles of ‘environmental resilience and sustainability’, ‘living locally’, ‘strong and healthy communities’ and ‘infrastructure investment that supports balanced city growth’ have informed the vision for Northcote (DELWP, 2017, p.10-11). Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 proposes a network of complimentary metropolitan and major activity centres to Melbourne’s CBD, of which the Northcote Activity Centre is categorised as major activity centre (DELWP, 2017, p.52)

‘Advocate for better public transport’

‘Expand our land subdivision levy to fund more open space’ ‘Create a developer contributions scheme to ensure developers contribute financially to our infrastructure as our city grows’

Darebin Climate Emergency Action Plan 2017-2022 The Darebin Climate Emergency Action Plan 2017-2022 acknowledges the council’s environmental responsibility and declares the council’s commitment to take climate change action (City of Darebin 2017, p. 12). This plan proposes the ambitious aim of ‘zero greenhouse gas emissions’ by 2020 with resulting actions from the following themes (City of Darebin, 2017, p.5, 28): Climate emergency mobilisation and leadership Energy efficiency Renewable energy and fuel switching Zero emissions transport

Darebin Council Plan The Darebin Council Plan 2017-2021 describes the vision for the municipality as ‘a greener, bolder more connected city’ (City of Darebin 2017, p.4). This strategy positions the City of Darebin as aiming to be socially and ecologically progressive. The strategy is based on the themes of climate change action, wellbeing and opportunity, sustainable development, economic diversity and social equity (City of Darebin, 2017, p.3). The council plan proposes the following actions relevant to Northcote (City of Darebin, 2017, p 8-9):

Consumption and waste management Fossil fuel divestment Adaptation and resilience Engaging the community Darebin Energy Foundation The Darebin Climate Action Emergency Plan is a formative document for the creation of the Northcote Structure Plan which builds upon these strategies.

‘Double solar power in Darebin’ 28

VISI

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Northcote wi

social ecolo

accessible, connect

29 PART THREE - DIRECTION

ION

ill be a thriving

ogical system:

ted and sustainable.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

PRINCIPLES ACCESSIBLE Socially inclusive, proximate to everyday needs, efficient movement CONNECTED Diversified uses, ecologically linked, integrating urban and nature SUSTAINABLE Climate conscious, comforting microclimates, low energy

Why a social ecological system? The concept of ‘socio-ecological systems’ is based upon the understanding of social and ecological systems as intrinsically connected (Heymans et al., 2019, p.3). This concept, applied to urban planning, aims to connect the built and natural environments with the human realm. The social aspect refers to social capital, cohesion, physical and mental wellbeing. Social capital and cohesion involve the individual, community and institutions, often referring to strength of relationships, participation, perceptions of norms, social mobility, human rights and the lack of social conflict (Fonseca et al., 2019, p.247). The ecological aspect refers to non-human aspects, including plants and animals yet also the reliance on outside sources of sustenance and materials as well as waste, pollution and emissions (Schliephake, 2014, p.11). This envisages an environmentally sustainable

city, referring to the minimisation of a cities’ environmental impact such as ‘carbon emission, waste production and resource consumption’ within a global perspective (Schliephake, 2014, p.45). Therefore, socio-ecological cities aim to balance and connect these aspects to create a ‘harmonious relationship’ (Heymans et al., 2019, p.1). Socio-ecological systems, having been popularised recently, are often referred to as ‘dynamic, integrated, non-linear and complex’ and largely reject previously dominant approaches to urban planning (Heymans et al., 2019, p.8). Rather than the traditional rationalist planning approach of asserting human control and over utilising natural systems, socioecological systems rather positions humans within the environmental sphere (van der Leer et al., 2018, p.298).

Why Northcote? This vision is drawn from existing Northcote community values yet formulates these values into a new conceptual and systematic approach. The Northcote community is characterised by its willingness to hold government accountable, take climate change action and celebrate social and cultural diversity. This is evident at governmental level, through the 31 PART THREE - DIRECTION

political ideologies behind the currently sitting councillors, and at a street level, through the posters on street posts as well as community groups and events. It is apparent the Northcote community is aware of its influence and responsibility locally, domestically and globally therefore this vision seeks to tackle issues at many scales.

OBJECTIVES 1

Support diversified land use and development proximate to existing services

USE & DENSITY

2 BUILT FORM REGULATIONS

3 MOVEMENT & ACCESS

Integrate development within ecological systems, existing character and climate conditions

Facilitate an integrated, accessible and sustainable transport system

Deliver a high quality and climate sensitive public realm

STREETS & SPACES

PART FOUR:

STRUCTU This Framework Plan provides an overview of the proposed actions within the themes of land use and density, built form regulations, mobility and access, and streets and spaces. The framework indicates the areas of change specifically located around activity centres etc.

Use & Density Actions A1.1

Rezone Northcote Activity Centre to the Activity Centre Zone

A1.2

Rezone the small neighbourhood activity centres of St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, Westgarth, Dennis and Victoria Road to the Mixed-Use Zone

A1.3

Increase maximum building height requirements along density corridors to encourage medium density development

Built Form Regulations Actions

NORTH

0 33 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

0.25

0.5

1KM

: PROPOSAL

URE PLAN Movement adn Access Actions

Streets & Spaces Actions

USE AND DENSITY Objective O1

Support diversified land use and development proximate to existing services Actions

A1.1

Rezone Northcote Activity Centre to the Activity Centre Zone

A1.2

Rezone the small neighbourhood activity centres of St. George’s Road, Westgarth, Dennis and Victoria Road to the Mixed-Use Zone

A1.3

Increase maximum building height requirements along density corridors to encourage medium density development

Northcote is forecast to increase in population by 7,415 people in the next 20 years (ProfileID, 2018). This growth of 27% is significant and must be considered when planning for land use and density. Currently, Northcote’s population lives primarily in low-density separate houses with only 20% living in apartments or flats (ABS, 2016). Melbourne’s low-density density suburban neighbourhoods are found to consume more operational and embodied energy as well as resulting transport outputs when compared with higher-density housing (Stephan et al., 2013, p.48). Higher density development also can contribute to wellbeing through improving walkability, access and creating vibrancy (Lehmann,

2014, p.2, 12). However, it is noted high density development must be managed carefully to not adversely affect privacy, the urban climate and neighbourhood character. Mixed use development aims to support a diversity of activities in a concentrated area, resulting in greater access to services, convenience and sense of community (Sim, 2019, p.12). The horizontal layering of building uses can facilitate these effects such as through ground level active retail spaces, above services and offices and higher up residential uses (Sim, 2019, p.78). Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 supports ‘mixeduse neighbourhoods at varying densities’ which the following actions aim to achieve (p.99).

Case Study: Curitiba, Brazil

04.11: ICLEI. (2016). Curitiba’s Axes: High Density Transit Corridors.

35 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

Curitiba began to use land use and transport planning in the 1960s to effectively plan for a growing population (International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), 2016, p.1). This included promoting mixed-use higher density development along public transport corridors (Gustafsson, et al., 2016, p.83). Corridors formed a cohesive transport network with a hierarchy of density applied relative to public transport proximity (Gustafsson, et al., 2016, p.83-84). This approach has resulted in reduced carbon emissions and increased quality of life (ICLEI, 2016, p.7).

04:12: Rezoning

Proposal

2 5

4 3

Rezoning

Northcote

2 St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road 3 Westgarth 4 Dennis 5 Victoria Road

Precinct

Road Zone RDZ

General Residential GRZ

Industrial INZ

Neighbourhood Residential NRZ

Public Park and Recreation PCRZ

Residential Growth RGZ

Public Use PUZ

Mixed Use MUZ

Urban Floodway UFZ

Commercial C1Z

Activity Centre ACZ

NORTH

0.25

0.5

KM 36

ACTION 1.1 USE AND DENSITY

Rezone Northcote Activity Centre to the Activity Centre Zone The Activity Centre Zone aims to encourage mixed-use concentrated development and stimulate economic activity. The rezoning of the activity centre aims to rationalise the regulations of the existing eight zones within this area. The rezoning seeks to create a comprehensive and consistent planning approach and allow greater development potential to meet the requirements of the future population. This zone will be applied to the core of the activity centre, excluding the Public Use, Public Park and Recreation Zone and Road Zone as recommended by DELWP (2015, p.3). The Activity Centre Zone is realigned along the western train line and southern extent to protect heritage and preserve neighbourhood character. Additionally, the zone is extended towards Thornbury and centred along Separation Street due to the high development potential of this area. Rezoning activity centres is encouraged by DELWP as a land use tool and requires a Development Framework Plan (2015, p.1,3). Activity Centre Zones have been applied to neighbourhood activity centres similar to Northcote including Chapel Street, Coburg and Moonee Ponds during recent years. Chapel Street is facing significant intensified development, therefore zoning is a tool to carry out the Chapel reVision Structure Plan and emphasise ‘employment generating uses on lower floors’ and ‘minimum floor to floor heights’ to allow flexibility in future use (City of Stonnington, 2017). The purpose of the Activity Centre Zone is to (DELWP, 2018, Clause 37.08): Concentrate development and encourage mix-use Collocate business, shops, work, housing, leisure and community facilities

Facilitate diversity of housing types at higher densities to ensure high level of service provision Create a high-quality public realm that is attractive, pleasant, walkable and safe

ACTION 1.2 USE AND DENSITY

Rezone the small neighbourhood activity centres of St. George’s Road, Westgarth, Dennis and Victoria Road to the Mixed-Use Zone This action aims to reinvigorate small neighbourhood activity centres and create a mixed-use network to compliment the Northcote Activity Centre. The locations specified in figure 04.02 will be rezoned to MUZ2 ‘Strategic Corridors – Commercial Focus’ which aims to activate ground floor frontages through encouraging commercial activity as well as higher density housing (DELWP, 2016, Clause 32.04). This aim aligns with the concept of layering uses as illustrated by figure 04.03. This action aims to encourage greater commercial activity, such as business and office space, to reflect Northcote’s high proportion of professionals. The proposed locations for the Mixed Use Zone are currently used for commercial purposes yet appear largely underutilised. The rezoning aims to encourage growth due to the existing proximity to public transport infrastructure.

ROOFTOP

RESIDENTIAL OFFICE RETAIL

Encourage the use of active transport modes such as public transport, cycling and walking 04.13: Layering of uses.

37 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

04.14:

ZONE

Land Use Budget

CURRENT AREA (m2)

PROPOSED AREA (m2)

CHANGE %

Activity Centre

ACZ

734,409

+12.2%

General Residential

GRZ

2,442,644

40.5%

2,132,344

35.3%

-5.2%

Neighbourhood Res

NRZ

1,848,985

30.6%

1,706,252

28.3%

-2.3%

Residential Growth

RGZ

41,502

0.7%

41,502

0.7%

Mixed Use

MUZ

53,251

0.9%

88,906

1.47%

+0.57%

Commercial

301,072

35423

0.6%

-4.4%

Road

RDZ

304,381

Industrial

INZ

84,676

1.2%

70,011

1.16%

-0.04%

Public Park and Recreation

PCRZ

639,981

10.6%

639,981

10.6%

Public Use

PUZ

319,366

5.4%

319,366

5.4%

Urban Floodway

UFZ

6,837

0.1%

6,837

0.1%

*Calculations are approximate

PUZ

ACZ

PPRZ

PUZ GRZ

RDZ GRZ

PPRZ C1Z MUZ

RDZ C1Z MUZ

NRZ

CURRENT

NRZ

PROPOSED

04.15: Maximum

High Street Corridor - Northcote Plaza

Building Height Proposal

High Street Corridor - Westgarth

St.Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corridor - North

Precinct Low Density (up to 3 storeys) Low-Medium Transition (up to 5 storeys) Medium Density (preferred 5 storeys or above)

39 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

NORTH

0.25

0.5

ACTION #1.3

USE AND DENSITY Increase maximum building height along density corridors to encourage medium density development

Transforming Australian Cities details the following considerations (Victorian Department of Transport 2010, p.4-5): Properties with a public transport frontage Maintaining Public Use and Public Park and Recreation Zones Half of buildings within the Heritage Overlay have development potential Current population density and development capacity

EXISTING

PROPOSED

This action aims to designate growth corridors along St. George’s Road and High Street through increasing maximum building height. These corridors are selected based on existing public transport infrastructure with the intention of further developing mixed land uses and higher public realm quality to improve economic and recreational opportunity, enhance walkability and reduce car dependency. This action aims to provide a comprehensive approach to height controls on a suburb scale and identify key areas of transition between low density and medium density. This method of development aims to limit impact on low density residential neighbourhoods preserve heritage character. Additionally, industrial areas located on Northcote’s periphery are recognised as having development potential but currently lack public transport infrastructure therefore should not be designated as high density.

The concept of growth corridors is situated under the Plan Melbourne policy to ‘support new housing in activity centres and other places that offer good access to jobs, services and public transport’ (2017, p.50). Woodcock et al. (2010) argue Melbourne’s built form does not have to drastically change to accommodate population growth (p.94). A study by the Victorian Department of Transport argues for infill development specifically along ‘urban corridors’ (2010, p.9). The implementation of preferred building heights, including medium density in activity centres and 4-5 storeys along transport corridors, has the potential to accommodate this growth (Woodcock et al., 2010, p.94).

04.16: Possible

design outcome for increasing density along High Street, Westgarth 40

BUILT FORM REGULATIONS Objective O2

Integrate development within ecological systems, existing character and climate conditions Actions

A2.1

Introduce a Design and Development Overlay to land adjacent to the Merri Creek

A2.2

Develop Urban Design Guidelines for the Activity Centre and Mixed Use Zone

A2.3

Advocate for further requirements of the Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) guidelines

A2.4

Encourage retrofit of heritage properties to improve energy efficiency

A2.5

Continue the Darebin Solar Saver program and fund solar panels for community facilities

Case Study: Freiburg, Germany

04.21: Vauban Estate in Freiburg, Germany.

41 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

Freiburg is known for its innovative green buildings, which have resulted from a sustainability movement beginning in the 1970s enforcing strict building regulations specific to thermal insulation and passive solar energy (Fasenrath and Braun, 2018, p.323). The neighbourhood of Vauban was planned by the local government and in collaboration with community and the private sector to trial passive solar housing based on the design concepts of quality insulation, glazed windows, ventilation systems, appropriate siting and solar energy (Fasenrath and Braun, 2018, p.345).

04.22: Built

Form Regulations Proposal

Proposed Design and Development Overlay Existing Environmental Significance Overlay Activity Centre and Mixed Use Zone

NORTH

Heritage Overlay

0.25

0.5

KM 42

04.23: Built

Form Requirements for Merri Creek DDO at Beavers Road

Maximum building height

w red vie

Filte

Setback

Merri Creek

Waterway Corridor

Minimise impervious surfaces

Property

Adapted from Yarra RIver Planning Protection Control.s

ACTION 2.1 BUILT FORM REGULATIONS

Introduce a Design and Development Overlay to land adjacent to the Merri Creek This action seeks to introduce a Design and Development Overlay (DDO) to properties beside Merri Creek, as shown in figure 04.23. Merri Creek is recognised as environmentally significant, as stated in Clause 42.01 – Schedule 1 of the Darebin Planning Scheme, yet this policy is outdated and does not specify built form requirements (DELWP, 2006). As stated in Issues (p.23), upon observation there is a lack of wayfinding devices and vegetation connections between Merri Creek and Northcote’s residential areas. Additionally. as identified in Opportunities there are key sites for development situated along Merri Creek including beside the Northcote Public Golf Course and Green Reserve. The proposed DDO would introduce a development criterion that specifies design and built form requirements and would aim to create greater integration between the creek and urban areas and protect the creek from inappropriate development. 43 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

A new DDO has recently been introduced to the land adjacent to the Yarra River in Richmond and Abbotsford as a response to the threat of inappropriate development and as part of the Yarra River Action Plan (DELWP, 2019). Similar objectives to DDO1 of the Yarra Planning Scheme may be applied to Merri Creek in Northcote, including considerations for (DELWP, 2017, Clause 43.02): Landscape protection: ‘Minimise the visual intrusion of development’ and ‘ensure sufficient space is provided between buildings to maintain views.’ Siting and design: ‘Ensure public views of buildings are filtered through vegetation and trees’ and ensure building is positioned in relation to and subordinate to the river. Site coverage and permeability: ‘Minimise impervious surfaces’ and ensure visually permeably interface between private and public open space.

ACTION 2.2 BUILT FORM REGULATIONS

Active interfaces particularly at highly visible street corners

Develop Urban Design Guidelines for the Activity Centre and Mixed Use Zone This action aims to develop Urban Design Guidelines that assist in integrating higher density development with existing neighbourhood character or establishing preferred neighbourhood character. An Arthurton Road property currently functioning as a warehouse yet marked for development illustrates principles to be incorporated into the Urban Design Guidelines. These principles are based upon the Urban Design Guidelines for Victoria by DELWP (2017) and recommendations in Soft Cities by David Sim (2019) and aim increase streetscape amenity, integrate with adjacent heritage character and consider climate conditions.

Greater site permeability through landscaping and green rooves to create cooler microclimate

Permeable sites through deconstructed building footprint to create walkable connections

Smooth transitions of typology and height between new developments and heritage buildings

Large setbacks in narrow streets to improve visual streetscape amenity

Minimise vertical surface area of buildings to reduce urban heat island effect

04.24: Arthurton Road Urban Design Guidelines Diagrams

ACTION 2.3 BUILT FORM REGULATIONS

Advocate for further requirements of the Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) guidelines Darebin is part of the Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment (CASBE) which is incorporated into the planning scheme in Clause 22.12 – Environmentally Sustainable Development (DELWP, 2018). This clause requires residential developments above 3 dwellings and nonresidential developments above 100m2 in floor area to satisfy a criterion demonstrating alignment with planning objectives (DELWP, 2017, Clause 22.12). This assessment includes the following objectives: ‘Energy performance: reduce operating greenhouse gas emission, appropriate siting’ ‘Waste minimisation: encourage collection of stormwater, reduce operating potable water use’ ‘Indoor environment quality: sustainable materials, thermal comfort’ ‘Stormwater management: reduce stormwater run-off, incorporate water sensitive urban design’ ‘Transport: minimise car dependency, promote low emission vehicle technologies’ ‘Waste management: durability of building materials, composting and green waste facilities’ ‘Urban ecology: minimise the urban heat island effect, encourage planting of indigenous vegetation’ These objectives are measured through rating systems such as Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard and Green Star.

45 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

This policy provides a comprehensive approach to statutory planning procedures to sustainable development, yet only specifies that developers must ‘demonstrate’ the fulfilment of these objectives. This policy may be improved upon through requiring developers to be accountable for the sustainability of a building’s operation. Freiburg introduced building energy requirements on a city level in the 1980s, comparatively more stringent than federal policy at the time (Fasenrath, & Braun, 2018, p.343). It is necessary for Darebin to further advocacy and research building requirements incorporating environmental sustainability as a member of CASBE.

04.2?: Existing solar panels on top of the heritage listed Northcote Town Hall

ACTION 2.5 BUILT FORM REGULATIONS

Continue the Solar Saver program and fund solar panels for community facilities

ACTION 2.4 BUILT FORM REGULATIONS

Encourage retrofit of heritage properties to improve energy efficieny This action recognises the character contribution of heritage buildings yet seeks to upgrade buildings to energy efficient technology. The Heritage Council of Victoria argues the retention of heritage buildings is environmentally beneficial as there is no detrimental effects from demolition, such as disposal of materials and sources new materials, and the life cycle of the building is lengthened (2008, p.1). Sustainability Victoria (2010) conducted a study into the energy efficiency of Victorian residences and found that building constructed before 1990 could greatly improve energy efficiency through quality insulation and simple appliance upgrades (p.5, 99, 100).

Darebinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total emissions include 23% resulting from residential electricity use between the 2015/2016 year (City of Darebin, 2017, p.22). The Darebin Solar Saver program aims to reduce carbon emissions from non-renewable forms of energy through paying the upfront costs of solar panels for households and businesses who repay the loan interest-free (City of Darebin, 2019 p.4). The program was also aimed at potentially vulnerable members of the community including pensioners, low-income households and renters (City of Darebin, 2017, p.23). The City of Darebin states the program has resulted in avoiding â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;11,000 tonnes of emissionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (2017, p.23). This action will continue the Solar Saver program through working with government agencies to install solar panels on all state, council and community buildings. This will include working with the Department of Education and Training and Housing Victoria to deliver solar panels for local schools and social housing respectively. Additionally, the City of Darebin is responsible for delivering solar panels to council facilities such as the Northcote Library and Northcote Recreation Centre.

This action targets buildings located within the heritage overlay and seeks to encourage the retrofitting of contemporary energy efficiency practices to reduce energy usage and improve thermal comfort. This action requires further research into what energy efficient technology are most viable for Northcote, yet initiatives may include: Establish an energy efficient heritage buildings for household within the Heritage Overlay to compliment the existing Solar Saver program Reduce the restrictions of the Heritage Overlay permit requirements for solar panels visible from the street (DELWP, 2018, Clause 43.01.01)

04.2?: Existing solar panels within an 800m2 area of Dennis near Westgarth Primary School

MOVEMENT & ACCESS Objective O3

Facilitate an integrated, accessible and sustainable transport system Actions

A3.1

Work with Public Transport Victoria (PTV) to extend bus route 552 and improve bus frequency on routes 250 and 251

A3.2

Deliver publicly accessible electric car vehicle points

A3.3

Upgrade the intersection of High Street and Separation Street to establish a transport cohesive interchange

A3.4

Work with Yarra Trams to ensure all tram stops along High Street are accessible

A3.5

Improve bus stop accessibility and implement green rooves along Separation Street and Arthurton Road

Northcote’s forecasted population growth is likely to place further pressure on existing transport services, of which all trainlines, all tramlines and Victoria Road bus routes form part of Melbourne’s Principal Public Transport Network (PPTN) (Department of Transport, 2019). Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 supports states the policy to ‘improve local transport choices’ and provide high quality transport services along the PPTN (p.67,73). The following actions support Plan Melbourne’s aim of increasing the integration and quality of public transport along the PPTN to ensure greater accessibility to varying modes of transport.

The accessibility of the transport system must consider social inclusion such as vulnerable user groups who face transport inequity, such as the elderly, parents with children, those with mobility aids as well as residents living in poorly serviced areas (Saghapour, 2015, p.274). The following actions target public transport stop quality and system efficiency. Carbon emissions resulting from transport use account for 17% of Darebin’s total carbon emissions (p.22). Facilitating greater public transport through improving quality aims to increase transport sustainability (Saghapour, 2015, p.274).

Case Study: Utrecht, the Netherlands

04.31: Utrecht Ecological Bus Stop

47 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

The Dutch city of Utrecht prioritises transport equity through ensuring public transport is accessible, reliable and adheres to a modal hierarchy (Civitas, 2019). Utrecht has implemented a number of policies and projects including improvements to bus reliability to outer suburbs, encouraging ‘clean cars’ through discounted parking rates and street infrastructure upgrades to ensure safety and prioritisation for active transport users (Civitas, 2019). The city has introduced an ‘environmental zone’ that restricts diesel car access to improve air quality (City of Utrecht, 2019).

and Access Proposal

TO LA TR OBE

TO PRES TON

TO MERNDA

04.32: Movement

TO BRUNSWICK

AST

E RTH-

O TO N

Transport Interchange

Bus Route Increased Frequency Bus Route Extension Potential Electric Vehicle Charging Hubs

NORTH

Tram Stop Access Upgrades Bus Stop Infrastructure Upgrades

0.25

0.5

KM 48

BUS

250

251

START

CBD

END

La Trobe

Northland Shopping Centre

ROUTE

High St, Westgarth St, Victoria Rd

CURRENT FREQUENCY

21-60 MIN

PROPOSED FREQUENCY

11-20 MIN

ACTION 3.1 MOVEMENT & ACCESS

Work with Public Transport Victoria (PTV) to extend bus route 552 and improve bus frequency on routes 250 and 251 This action aims to provide more efficient and connected public transport services for the poorly serviced north-east of Northcote and contribute to a more equitable transport system across Northcote. This area is outside of the 800m train catchment and 400m tram catchment therefore buses are the only easily accessible form of public transport. Yet bus usage in Northcote is low which may be linked to poor frequency and stop quality. This action aims to work with Public Transport Victoria to increase frequency on bus routes 250 and 251 which provide connections to key activity areas including Melbourne’s CBD, Northland Shopping Centre and the La Trobe Employment and Innovation Cluster. This action also aims to promote multi-modal transport use through increased bus frequency to match train and tram frequency. Extending the bus route 552 from the All Nation’s Park stop to High Street aims to further connect the bus network to tram services. Further investigation is required with Public Transport Victoria to determine increases in bus frequency for specific times and days of the week. 49 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

ACTION 3.2 MOVEMENT & ACCESS

Deliver publicly accessible electric vehicle charging points This action acknowledges the functionality of private vehicles and seeks to encourage community to adapt to electric vehicles (EV) powered by renewable energy to lower carbon emissions. Introducing EV charging points into public space aims to target the ‘range anxiety’ meaning the ‘fear of being stranded without battery life’ (Parliament of Victoria, 2018, p.22). Currently within the City of Darebin there are two EV charging points both outside of Northcote, therefore this action supports the strategy to ‘purchase and install public electric vehicle charging points’ as stated within Darebin’s Climate Emergency Action Plan (p.66). The adjacent council Moreland City Council has invested in 10 charging points powering by renewable energy which are located proximate to council facilities, recreation centres and public open space (Moreland City Council, 2019). The potential EV charging points are illustrated in figure 04.32, located next to Northcote Plaza, Northcote Recreation Centre and public open space.

04.33: EV Charging Point at CB Smith Reserve, Moreland

04.34: High

Street and Separation Street Intersection Proposal

Footpath platform for tram access and traffic calming device

HIGH S TREET

Curb extension

RTON ROAD SECTIO N

ARTHUR TON ROA

SEPARAT

ION STR

Pedestrian prioritised crossing and signals

ACTION 3.3 MOVEMENT & ACCESS

Upgrade the intersection of High Street and Separation Street to establish a cohesive transport interchange This action seeks to create a cohesive public transport interchange on High Street where Arthurton Road and Separation Street join. This intersection is significant as it is situated on the primary retail street, adjacent to Northcote Plaza and All Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park, within walking distance of Northcote Station and includes bus and tram stops. The layout of this intersection is currently dominated by cars as both streets are four lanes

12.5

EET

Signage displaying route information

Clearly defined bus stop and lane

HIGH S TREET

Bicycle parking

Shade for a comfortable walking envrionment

ARTHU

Removal of car parks

Clear sight lines connecting tram and bus stops

Places to rest and shelter from weather

Bus stop relocated closer to intersection

SECTIO

50M

in width with narrow footpaths. Additionally, existing bus stops lack visibility due to no shelter and being located slightly away from the intersection. The tram stops are inaccessible for those with limited mobility. The proposed intersection design prioritises pedestrians and public transports users. This design incorporates principles outlined by Sim (2019) In Soft Cities including curb extensions promoting safety, footpath platforms enabling access and integrating street trees to provide climate comfort (p.113, 123, 192). The Transit Street Design Guide (2019) by National Association of City Transportation officials also provided principles of pedestrian safety such as efficient crossings and direct routes. 50

04.35: High

Street Town Hall Accessible Tram Stop

ACTION 3.4 MOVEMENT & ACCESS

Work with Yarra Trams to ensure all tram stops along High Street are accessible This action proposes to upgrade the remaining tram stops that are currently not identified as ‘accessible’ which are Separation Street, McCutcheon Street, Dennis Street and Darebin Road on route 86, as well as Clarke Street on route 11. This aims to improve upon socially inclusive infrastructure through enabling access for all especially users such as parents with

This action requires collaboration with PTV and Ýarra Trams to implement their goal of ‘improve access to stops’ and ‘improve waiting environments at stops’ as stated in the Accessibility Action Plan 2015-2018 (p.16).

Street Section

HIGH STREET SECTION

04.36: High

children, the elderly and those with mobility aides. This action includes a footpath platform for level boarding, establishing shelters with seating for weather protection and rest and improving visual and auditory signage. This is illustrated in the High Street Section and Separation Street Intersection Proposal.

Footpath

51 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

Platform for tram access and roadway

Tram corridor and roadway

Platform for tram access and roadway

Footpath

ACTION 3.5 MOVEMENT & ACCESS

Improve bus stop accessibility and implement green rooves along Separation Street and Arthurton Road This action aims to deliver a bus shelter at every bus stop with appropriate signage, to provide a place to rest and protection from weather. Bus shelters also seek to function as wayfinding devices, as indicated by 04.37, the High Street bus stop lacks visibility due to being marked only by a street sign. The existing bus stops currently without shelters are indicated in figure 04.32 of which improving the Arthurton Road and Separation Street stops are of high priority due to these routes being the primary east to west public transport link. This action aims to investigate the applicability of green roofs for bus stop shelters, as implemented by Dutch city of Utrecht (City of Utrecht, 2019). Utrecht includes 316 bus stops with green rooves made of sedum which provide habitat for bees and birds and include the following benefits (City of Utrecht, 2019): capturing particles and storing rainwater providing cool microclimates promoting biodiversity and creating habitat visually engaging urban design Further investigation is required to implement bus stop green rooves, with the potential to introduce biodiverse native vegetation to create habitat for native animals. Furthermore, implementing bus stop green rooves throughout Northcote has the capacity to provide ecological linkages through utilising the existing structure of the bus network.

04.37: Existing

High Street Bus Stop

STREETS AND SPACES Objective O4

Deliver a high quality and climate sensitive public realm Actions

A4.1

Develop and implement a Streetscape Master Plan for Victoria Road, Westgarth, St George’s Road and High Street North

A4.2

Further develop the urban forest through increasing canopy cover and biodiversity

A4.3

Increase requirements for Public Open Space Contribution

A4.4

Ensure naming of new open spaces reflects cultural and linguistic diversity

Case Study: Hamburg, Germany

04.41: Hamburg Green Network Map

53 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

In 2014, the city of Hamburg proposed an open space network of ‘parks, allotments, forest, field marks and cultural landscapes’ to reinvigorate the existing landscape, provide habitat and improve recreational value (Hamburg City, 2019). This approach functions on a city-wide scale with concentric rings of open space connected by corridors with active transport routes, with the intention of creating a car-free half green and blue city (de Oliveira, 2017, p.195-198). This project forms part of the city’s larger goals of tackling climate change and health related issues (Fischer, 2016, p.293-294).

04.42: Streets

and Spaces Proposal

SEPARATION STREET PRECINCT

Potential Sites for Contribution to Green Space Existing High Street Streetscape Master Plan Potential Streetscape Master Plan Sites

NORTH

0.25

0.5

KM 54

Shrub planting in median strip

ACTION 5.1 STREETS AND SPACES

Develop and implement a Streetscape Master Plan for Victoria Road, Westgarth, St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road and High Street North This action aims to upgrade the public realm of small neighbourhood retail areas to be more visually engaging, safe and environmentally sustainable. The urban design of High Street is relatively established along High Street between James Street and Separation Street, including seating, bike hoops and street trees, resulting from the Northcote Activity Centre Structure Plan (2007, p.47). This proposal seeks to develop a Streetscape Master Plan for Victoria Road, Westgarth, St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road and High Street North as illustrated in figure 04.42. Figure 04.43 illustrates the elements the Streetscape Master Plan may include applied to Victoria Road neighbourhood activity centre.

Continuous footpaths for traffic calming and pedestrian priority Widened pavement for retail activity

Car parking removed to create pocket path for resting

Introducing more trees to increase canopy cover

Coloured bike lane

Upgrading crossing with colour demarcation

Curb extension to enlarge and provide safe crossing

Introduce second trainline crossing to improve access

04.43: Streetscape

55 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

Trainline planting

Master Plan Proposal for Victoria Road

Existing Conditons on Victoria Road 56

Refer to figure 04.42 Streets and Spaces Proposal Map on page 54 for location 56.01: Separation

Street Precinct: Potential design outcomes from increasing public open space contribution

ACTION 5.3 STREETS AND SPACES

Increase requirements for Public Open Space Contribution Currently the entirety of Northcote is affected by the Development Contributions Plan Overlay (DCPO), as found within Clause 45.06 of the Darebin Planning Scheme, which states the percentage of developer expenditure towards open space (DELWP, 2016). This action proposes to increase the percentage of greenspace area when subdividing a lot which is at a maximum of 5% for 5 or more additional lots (DELWP, 2018, Clause 53.01). Specifically subdivisions of 10 or more lots will be required to contribute 8% of total area to green space. This action aligns with the recommendation made in the Darebin Open Space Strategy

which states the acquisition of open space should consider the location in relation to higher population density, filling a gap in the network, enlarging existing open space and remnant vegetation (2019, p.37). By acquiring green space through development, new green space aims to provide proximate green space for residents of higher density developments. Key sites are highlighted in figure 04.42 of potential developments sites of which new green space may be acquired, many of which are located proximate to existing green space potentially creating further green connections. Additionally, this action builds upon the action stated in the Darebin Council Plan 2017-2021 to ‘create a developer contributions scheme to ensure developers contribute financially to our infrastructure as our city grows’ (p.9).

04.43: Baden Morgan Reserve adjacent to a five storey residential development on Robert’s Street.

57 PART FOUR - PROPOSAL

Gumbri Park 58

PART FIVE: IMPLEMENTATION

PROCESS

05.01: Based on: VPA, (2009), Planning Process Flowchart & DELWP, (2018), Amending a Planning Scheme.

This Structure Plan is positioned as a hypothetical draft for the City of Darebin. The planning process involves a previous stage with community consultation and research to produce a background report, then this Structure Plan is situated as a report to be released for community comment and editing (City of Darebin, 2007). This Structure Plan has utilised and is situated within state government and City of Darebin plans, strategies and policy that stipulates and informs appropriate planning strategy. The final stage involves implementing proposed policy through formally incorporating the Structure Plan into the Darebin Planning Scheme through the

59 PART FIVE - IMPLEMENTATION

Planning Scheme Amendment Process, involving approval by the Minister for Planning, as stated in the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (DELWP, 2018). The implementation of the actions proposed within this Structure Plan must be monitored and reviewed in reference to the vision. DELWP (2018) recommends reviewing Structure Plans every 4 years to align with the review of the Municipal Strategic Statement. This review would provide valueable feedback on the effectiveness of the Structure Plan and whether its vision should be maintained or altered.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT ACTION ?.? OBJECTIVE 2

Establish a Citizen’s Assembly as part of the engagement phase of the Northcote PSP A citizen’s assembly is a form of deliberative and participatory democracy, involving a group of citizens who are representative of the diversity of their community, in age, gender and socio-cultural backgrounds, to discuss a key issue. Citizen’s assemblies, similar to juries, are provided with expert advice and then collectively deliberate to form recommendations and actions to government. This process is facilitated by non-government organisations and aims to offer transparency, but directly positions community on the level of government decision-making.

This action will be a means of testing the community support for the Precinct Structure Plan as a proposed incorporated document and be in place of the typical community consultation process. Although City of Darebin has significantly high council approval ratings, this action aims to further connections between community and government and provide citizens with a formal platform and voice.

Case Study: Future Melbourne 2026, City of Melbourne Citizen’s assemblies have been run on a federal scale in Ireland on the issue of climate change which found XXX. This has also been run on a council scale by the City of Melbourne, involving community to deliberate on the Future Melbourne 2026 strategy. The global climate activist group Extinction Rebellion, which is run on community scale in Darebin, advocates for citizens assemblies as one of three core goals, intending to support their cause of government ‘telling the truth. Community Protest to advocate for climate change action 60

SCHED

ACTION

USE AND DENSITY

1.1

Rezone Northcote Activity Centre to the Activity Centre Zone

1.2

Rezone the small neighbourhood activity centres of St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, Westgarth, Dennis and Victoria Road to the Mixed-Use Zone

1.3

Increase maximum building height requirements along density corridors to encourage medium density development

BUILDING FORM REGULATIONS

2.1

Introduce a Design and Development Overlay to land adjacent to the Merri Creek

2.2

Develop Urban Design Guidelines for the Activity Centre and Mixed Use Zone

2.4

Advocate for further requirements of the Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) guidelines

2.3

Encourage retrofit of heritage properties to improve energy efficiency

2.5

Continue the Solar Saver program and fund solar panels for community facilities

TRANSPORT

3.1

Work with Public Transport Victoria (PTV) to extend bus route 552 and improve bus frequency on routes 250 and 251

3.2

Introduce publicly accessible electric car vehicle points

3.3

Upgrade the intersection of High Street and Separation Street to establish a transport cohesive interchange

3.4

Work with Yarra Trams to ensure all tram stops along High Street are accessible

3.5

Improve bus stop accessibility and implement green rooves along Separation Street and Arthurton Road

STEEETS AND SPACES

4.1

Develop and implement a Streetscape Master Plan for Victoria Road, Westgarth, St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road and High Street North

4.3

Increase requirements for Public Open Space Contribution

TIMEFRAME

Short: 0-5 years

61 PART FIVE - IMPLEMENTATION

Medium: 5-10 years

Long 10-15 years

Ongoing

DULE

RESPONSIBILITY/STAKEHOLDER

TIMEFRAME

City of Darebin, landowners

City of Darebin, landowners (adjacent to Merri Creek) City of Darebin, developers City of Darebin, landowners, CASBE, Green Buillding Council of Australia

City of Darebin, heritage property owners

ACTION

O O

City of Darebin, Department of Education and Training, Housing Victoria

A O

City of Darebin, PTV

City of Darebin

City of Darebin, PTV, Yarra Trams

City of Darebin, PTV

City of Darebin, landowners (shop owners)

City of Darebin, landowners, developers

D D

D O

ACTION

Delivery

Policy

Research

Advocacy 62

PART SIX: CONCLUSION

SUMMARY

The Northcote Structure Plan provides a

mixed-uses. The plan incorporates action on

strategy in which Northcote will build upon its

climate change including furthering building

existing character through continuing to provide

requirements to combat the urban heat effect and

amenity for current residents and while allowing

energy usage.

for significant population growth. The plan prioritises increased accessibility for

The Northcote Structure Plan utilises the conceptual basis of social and ecological

all Northcote residents, including people with

systems to ground the intent behind these

differing levels of mobility as well as locations of

actions. Northcote will advocate for and practice

residence. The plan aims to improve connections

ecologically sustainable development practices

such as between the Northcote Activity Centre

to reach socially equitable outcomes.

and smaller neighbourhood activity areas, through creating a transport interchange, and between existing and future green space. The plan argues for the establishment of urban corridors in association with intensified areas of

63 PART SIX - CONCLUSION

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Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2018). Victoria Planning Provisions. Retrieved from http://planning-schemes.delwp.vic.gov.au/schemes/vpps

City of Darebin. (2019). Breathing Space: The Darebin Open Space Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.yoursaydarebin.com.au/ openspacestrategy

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2017). Plan Melbourne 2017-2050. Retrieved from https://www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0007/377206/Plan_Melbourne_2017-2050_Strategy_.pdf

City of Darebin. (2019). Darebin Solar Saver and Bulk Buy. Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/media/ cityofdarebin/Files/Darebin-Living/CaringfortheEnvironment/ EnergyandClimate/SolarPrograms/FAQ-SolarSaverBulkBuyNEWNov2018.ashx?la=en City of Darebin. (2019). Northcote. Retrieved from http://www.darebin. vic.gov.au/en/Discover-Darebin/Suburb-spotlight/Northcote

Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2017). Urban Design Guidelines: Element 5 Buildings. Retrieved from https://www.urban-designguidelines.planning.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0006/440988/UDGV-05-Buildings.PDF

City of Darebin. (2018). Streets for People Draft Strategy. Retrieved fromhttps://www.yoursaydarebin.com.au/ streetsforpeople?tool=news_feed

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2015). Planning Practice Note 58: Structure Planning for Activity Centres. Retrieved from https://www. planning.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0029/97319/ PPN58-Structure-planning-for-activity-centres.pdf

City of Darebin. (2017). Darebin Climate Emergency Plan 2017-2022. Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic.gov. au/-/media/cityofdarebin/Files/Darebin-Living/ CaringfortheEnvironment/EnergyandClimate/ClimateChange/ DarebinClimateEmergencyPlan2017-2022.ashx?la=en

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2015). Planning Practice Note 56: Activity Centre Zone. Retrieved from https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/__data/ assets/pdf_file/0025/97315/PPN56-Activity-Centre-Zone_ June-2015.pdf

City of Darebin. (2017). Council Plan 2017-2021. Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/media/cityofdarebin/Files/ YourCouncil/HowCouncilWorks/CouncilPlan/Council-Plan/ CouncilPlan2017-2021-June2017_A.ashx?la=en

Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions: Victorian Government. (2019). Northern Region. Retrieved from https://www. suburbandevelopment.vic.gov.au/regions/northern-region

City of Darebin. (2016). Council Meeting Minutes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 December 2016. Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/ media/cityofdarebin/Files/YourCouncil/HowCouncilWorks/ MeetingAgendasMinutes/CouncilMeetings/2016/5Dec/ Minutes-5December2016.ashx?la=en

Department of Sustainability and Environment: Victorian Government. (2004). EVC Bioregion Benchmark for Vegetation Quality Assessment. Retrieved from https://www.environment.vic. gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0029/48755/VVP_EVCs_ combined.pdf

City of Darebin. (2013). Darebin Housing Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.yoursaydarebin.com.au/darebin-housing-strategy

Department of Transport: Victorian Government. Principal Public Transport Network. Retrieved from https://transport.vic.gov.au/ about/planning/principal-public-transport-network

City of Darebin. (2008). Heritage Study: Thematic Environmental History. Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/ media/cityofdarebin/Files/Building-and-Business/ PlanningandDevelopment/Heritage/Historic_Heritage_Places_ Darebin_2011.ashx?la=en

Fastenrath, S. & Braun, B. (2018). Sustainability transition pathways in the building sector: Energy-efficient building in Freiburg (Germany). Applied Geography 90, 339-349. doi: 10.1016/j. apgeog.2016.09.004

City of Darebin. (2007). Northcote Activity Centre Structure Plan. Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/ media/cityofdarebin/Files/Building-and-Business/ PlanningandDevelopment/Strategic-Planning/AdoptedStrategies-and-Plans/Northcote_Activity_Centre_Structure_ Plan_April_2007.ashx?la=en City of Darebin. (2007). Darebin Transport Strategy 2007-2027: Going Places. Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/ media/cityofdarebin/Files/YourCouncil/HowCouncilWorks/ CouncilPlan/CouncilStrategies/Transport-StrategyOctober-20072027.ashx?la=en City of Stonnington. (2017). New Planning Controls for Chapel Street Activity Centre. Retrieved from https://www.stonnington.vic.gov. au/Lists/Media-Releases/New-planning-controls-for-ChapelStreet-Activity-Centre City of Utrecht. (2019). Mobility. Retrieved from https://www.utrecht. nl/city-of-utrecht/mobility Civitas. (2019). Utrecht project: Making Innovation in Mobility and Sustainable Actions. Retrieved from https://civitas.eu/content/ utrecht De Oliveira, F. L. (2017). Green Wedge Urbanism: History, Theory and Contemporary Practice. Retrieved from https://books.google. com.au/ Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). Nature Kit. Retrieved from http://maps. biodiversity.vic.gov.au/viewer/?viewer=NatureKit Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). Yarra River Planning Controls. Retrieved from: https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/policy-and-strategy/ waterways-planning/yarra-river-controls Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). Victoria in Future Population Projections 2016-2056. Retrieved from https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/__ data/assets/pdf_file/0032/332996/Victoria_in_Future_2019. pdf Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2018). Schemes and Amendments. Retrieved from https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/schemes-andamendments/amending-a-planning-scheme

65 PART SIX - CONCLUSION

Fischer, T. B. (2016). Health and Hamburgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grunes Netz (Green Network) Plan. In Coutts, C. (Eds), Green Infrastructure and Public Health (286-298). Retrieved from https://www. taylorfrancis.com/books/9781315647623 Fonseca, Z., Lukosch, S. & Brazier, F. (2019). Social cohesion revisited: a new definition and how to characterise it. Innovation: The European Journal of Social Science Research 32 (2), 231-253. Doi: 10.1080/13511610.2018.1497480 Gustafsson, H-R. & Kelly, E. A. (2016). Developing the Sustainable City: Curitiba, Brazil, as a Case Study. In Brescia, R. & Marshall, J. T. (Eds.), How Cities Will Save the World: Urban Innovation in the Face of Population Flows, Climate Change and Economic Inequality (81-96). Retrieved from https://www.taylorfrancis. com/books/e/9781315587158 Hamburg City. (2019). Green Networking. Retrieved from https:// www.hamburg.de/gruenes-netz/13046992/karte-gruenvernetzen/ Heritage Council Victoria. (2008). Heritage Buildings and Sustainability. Retrieved from https://www.heritage.vic.gov. au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0018/61533/Sustainability_ Heritage_tech_-leaflet.pdf Heymans, A., Breadsell, J., Morrision, G. M., Byrne, J. J. & Eon, C. (2019). Ecological Urban Planning and Design: A Systematic Literature Review. Sustainability 11 (3723). doi: 10.3390/ su11133723 ID Community. Profile (2019). City of Darebin Community Profile: Northcote. Retrieved from https://profile.id.com.au/darebin/ population-estimate?WebID=260 International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives. (2016). Curitiba, Brazil: A model for Transit Oriented Development. Retrieved from https://urban-leds.org/wp-content/ uploads/2019/resources/case_studies/ICLEI_cs_190_ Curitiba_Urban-LEDS.pdf Lehmann, S. (2014). Low Carbon-Cities: Transforming Urban Systems. Retrieved from https://ezp.lib.unimelb.edu.au/login?url=http:// elibrary.worldbank.org/doi/book/10.1596/30611 Moreland City Council. (n.d.). Electric Vehicles. Retrieved from https:// www.moreland.vic.gov.au/parking-roads/transport/electricvehicles/

National Association of City Transportation Officials. (2019). Transit Street Design Guide. Retrieved from https://nacto.org/ publication/transit-street-design-guide/stations-stops/stationstop-principles/ Parliament of Victoria. (2018). Inquiry into Electric Vehicles. Retrieved from https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/images/stories/ committees/SCEI/Electric_Vehicles/EIC_58-13_Text_WEB.pdf Porter, L. (2018). From an urban country to urban Country: Confronting the cult of denial in Australian cities. Australian Geographer 49 (2), 239-346. doi: 10.1080/00049182.2018.1456301 Saghapour, T., Moridpour, S., & Thompson, R. G. (2016). Public Transport Accessibility in Metropolitan Areas: A New Approach Incorporating Population Density. Journal of Transport Geography 54, 273-285. Doi: 10.1016/j.jtrangeo.2016.06.019 Schliephake, C. (2014). Urban Ecologies: City Space, Material Agency and Environmental Politics in Contemporary Culture. Retrieved from https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/unimelb/detail. action?docID=1901090 Sim, D. (2019). Soft Cities: Building Density for Everyday Life. Washington DC, USA: Island Press Books. Stephan, A., Crawford, R. H., & de Myttenaere, K. (2013). MultiScale Life Cycle Energy Analysis of a Low-Density Suburban Neighbourhood in Melbourne, Australia. Building and Environment 68, 35-49. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j. buildenv.2013.06.003 Sustainability Victoria: Victorian Government. (2017). Sustainability Victoria Strategic Plan 2015-2020. Retrieved from https://www. sustainability.vic.gov.au/-/media/SV/Publications/Aboutus/What-we-do/Strategy-and-planning/SV2020/SV2020Strategic-Business-Plan.pdf Sustainability Victoria: Victorian Government. (2010). On-Ground Assessment of the Energy Efficiency Potential of Victorian Homes. Retrieved from https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/-/ media/resources/documents/publications-and-research/ publications/c--f/on-ground-assessment-pilot-studyapril-2012.pdf?la=en United Nations. (2019). The Sustainable Development Goals Report. Retrieved from https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2019/TheSustainable-Development-Goals-Report-2019.pdf Van der Leer, J., van Timmeren, A. V. & Wandl, A. (2018). Socio-Ecological Technical Systems in Urban Planning for a Circular Economy: An Opportunity for Horizontal Integration. Architectural Science Review 61(5), 298-304. Doi: 10.1080/00038628.2018.1505598 Woodcock, I., Dovey, K., Wollan, S., & Beyerle, A. (2010). Modelling the Compact City: Capacities and Visions for Melbourne. Australian Planner 47(2), 94-104. doi: 10.1080/07293681003767793

FIGURES 01.04: Karam, Nadim. (2006). The Traveller’s. Sculpture. Sandridge Bridge, Melbourne. Retrieved from https://www.melbourne.vic. gov.au/SiteCollectionDocuments/travellers-fact-sheet.pdf 02.13: City of Darebin. (2017). Darebin Community Emissions 2015/16. Darebin Climate Emergency Action Plan 20172022 (p.22). Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic. gov.au/-/media/cityofdarebin/Files/Darebin-Living/ CaringfortheEnvironment/EnergyandClimate/ClimateChange/ DarebinClimateEmergencyPlan2017-2022.ashx?la=en 04.11: International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives. (2016). Curitiba’s Axes. Curitiba, Brazil: A model for Transit Oriented Development (p.3). Retrieved from https://urban-leds.org/ wp-content/uploads/2019/resources/case_studies/ICLEI_ cs_190_Curitiba_Urban-LEDS.pdf 04:21: Sim, David. (2019). Vauban, Freiburg Vuban, Germany. Soft Cities: Building Density for Everyday Life (p.41). Washington DC, USA: Island Press Books. 04.23: Adapted from: Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning: Victorian Government. (2017). Yarra Protection River Planning Controls (p.2, 6). Retrieved from: https://www.planning. vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/101122/65-YarraRiver-Protection-Planning-Controls-AN65.pdf 04.2: NearMap. (2019). [Map of Dennis, Northcote]. Retrieved November 1, 2019 from: http://maps.au.nearmap.com/ 04.31: Chadwick, Lauren, (2019). Getting from A to bee: Utrecht install

environmentally friendly bus stops. Retrieved from https:// www.euronews.com/2019/07/12/getting-from-a-to-beeutrecht-installs-environmentally-friendly-bus-stops 04.33: City of Moreland. (2019). Electric Vehicle Factsheet (p.2). Retrieved from https://www.moreland.vic.gov.au/globalassets/ areas/esd/fact-sheet-electric-vehicles.pdf, p.2 04.41: Hamburg City. (2019). Green Network. Retrieved from https:// www.hamburg.de/gruenes-netz/13046992/karte-gruenvernetzen/ 05.01: Adapted from: VPA, (2009), Planning Process Flowchart & DELWP, (2018), Amending a Planning Scheme. Retrieved from https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/schemes-and-amendments/ amending-a-planning-scheme All icons from Icons8. (2019). Retrieved from: https://icons8.com/ All other figures (images, maps and graphics), unless otherwise stated, were created by the author utilising the following data: City of Darebin. (2007). Darebin Neighbourhood Character Study. Retrieved from http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/ media/cityofdarebin/Files/Building-and-Business/ PlanningandDevelopment/Strategic-Planning/ Department of Premier and Cabinet: Victorian Government. (2019). Areas of Cultural Heritage Sensitivity [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover.data.vic.gov.au/dataset/areas-of-culturalheritage-sensitivity Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). Parcel View - VicMap Property [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover.data.vic.gov.au/dataset/parcelview-vicmap-property Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). Planning Scheme Overlay [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover.data.vic.gov.au/dataset/ planning-scheme-overlay-vicmap-planning Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). Planning Scheme Zones [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover.data.vic.gov.au/dataset/ planning-scheme-zones-vicmap-planning Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). Urban Growth Boundary [dataset]. Retrieved from: https://discover.data.vic.gov.au/dataset/ planning-scheme-urban-growth-boundary-vicmap-planning Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). VicMap Admin [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover.data.vic.gov.au/dataset/vicmap-admin Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). VicMap Hydro - Watercourse Rivers [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover.data.vic.gov.au/ dataset/vicmap-hydro-watercourse-rivers Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). VicMap Transport - Arterial Roads [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover.data.vic.gov.au/dataset/ vicmap-transport-arterial-roads Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). VicMap Vegetation - Tree Density Medium & Scattered [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover. data.vic.gov.au/dataset/vicmap-vegetation-tree-densitymedium & Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning: Victorian Government. (2019). VicMap Elevation - 1-5 Contours & Relief [dataset]. Retrieved from https://discover. data.vic.gov.au/dataset/vicmap-elevation-1-5-contours-relief Public Transport Victoria. (2019). PTV: A Collection of PTV datasets [dataset]. Retrieved from https://www.data.vic.gov.au/data/ dataset/public-transport-a-collection-of-ptv-datasets Public Transport Victoria. (2019). Timetables. Retrieved from ptv.vic. gov.au/timetables Profile ID. (2019). City of Darebin Community Profile – Northcote. Retrieved from https://profile.id.com.au/darebin/ about?WebID=260 Profile ID. (2019). City of Darebin Community Profile. Retrieved from https://profile.id.com.au/darebin Victorian Environmental Assessment Council. (2019). VEAC Metropolitan Melbourne Open Space Inventory [dataset]. Retrieved from https://www.data.vic.gov.au/data/dataset/ veac-metropolitan-melbourne-open-space-inventory Victorian Government: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (2019). Darebin Planning Scheme - Clause 32.03-1. Retrieved from http://planning-schemes.delwp.vic.gov.au/ schemes/darebin

NORTHCOTE STRUCTURE PLAN Ella Anderson