CLIMATE RESILIENT NORTHCOTE 2020 STRUCTURE PLAN
SPECIAL MENTION I would like to make special mention of the Urban Design Precinct Studio I was so lucky to be apart of this year. During these unprecedented times I’m grateful for my tutor Madhu, for pushing each of us to address unique issues with an expansive and innovative perspective on what urban planning can look like in the future. Lastly, I would like to make special mention of my group who helped be lay the foundations of this report, Helena, Hannah and Emma.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY
I acknowledge the Wurundjeri Willam people as the traditional custodians of this land on which Northcote stands. We acknowledge that this land was stolen from them and pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
Stella Madden| 996044 Urban Precint Studio 2020 C3 Final Structure Plan
STRUCTURE
PART 1. INTRODUCING NORTHCOTE
PART 4. A RESILIENT NORTHCOTE
THE CONTEXT
5
VISION
29
THE HISTORY
8
OBJECTIVE SUMMARY
30
THE PEOPLE
8
CONNECTED
31
EXISTING STRATEGIES
10
GREEN
39
CLIMATE READY
49
INCLUSIVE
55
PART 2. ANALYSING NORTHCOTE 12
BUILT FORM
13
HOUSING
16
PART 5. HOW CAN THIS BE ACHIEVED?
TRANSPORT
18
IMPLEMENTATION
64
ENVIRONMENT
21
MONITORING AND REVIEWING
66
GOALS
66
PART 4
ZONING
PART 1 CLIMATE RESILIENT NORTHCOTE
ANALYSING NORTHCOTE
PART 3
KEY TERMS/ STRUCTURE
PART 3. EVALUATION ISSUES
26
PART 6. CONCLUSIONS
OPPORTUNITIES
27
SUMMARY
68
REFERENCES
69
PART 5
1 2 3
PART 6
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS CLIMATE RESILIENT NORTHCOTE
INTRODUCING NORTHCOTE
PART 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A key introduction to the context, demographics and existing planning policy and strategies that shape Northcote today.
An observation of climate resilience, steming from a comprehensive framework based of the green urbanism and resilient cities.
EVALUATION
An examination of issues and opportunities within the precinct creates a basis of future objective outputs and responsive objective formulation.
A RESILIENT NORTHCOTE
This section outlines the direction in which Northcote can realise its vision for a climate resilient precinct and how to put our vision into action.
HOW CAN THIS BE ACHIEVED?
Implementation, revieiwing and monitoring of policy objectives outlines the way in which objectives can become reality.
CONCLUSIONS
This section takes a final look at the outcomes of the 2020 structure plan
2
CLIMATE RESILIENT NORTHCOTE PURPOSE
The purpose of the 2020 Climate Resilient Northcote structure plan is to redefine and distinguish the future projections and aims of Northcote as a precinct. Major challenges facing Northcote’s future vary from population growth cultural inclusivity and climate change. Resilience, and climate resilience particularly focuses on how urban environments can not only adapt and absorb such challenges but can flourish in the face of changes in climate and weather events in the future. The Arup Resilience Index (2014) highlights a variety of factors that define what resilience means for the future. The report outlines the importance of considering “all levels from local to global”, when responding to and harnessing a places resilience. It highlights how a resilient city not only aims for immunity to future challenges, but also can learn from previous events. The existing challenges and assets that underpin Northcote’s urban fabric serve as the catalyst for the shaping a comprehensive vision, structured objectives, actions, and strategic goals to achieve a ‘Climate Resilient Northcote’. This structure plan is a cohesive, comprehensive tool of reference for future implementation strategies and actions taken in the formation of Northcote as a precinct. This report aims to ensure that Northcote becomes a connected, inclusive, green and climate ready suburb in the future, and overall a precinct that is resilient, adaptive, and prosperous in the face of future climate threats.
INTRODUCING NORTHCOTE
THE CONTEXT THE HISTORY THE PEOPLE EXISTING STRATEGIES
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THE CONTEXT
Metropolitan Context Map
KEY Melbourne CBD Darebin Metropolitan Melbourne Regional Victoria
METROPOLITAN The City of Darebin is situated 5-15km north-east of the Melbourne Central Business District. Darebin is perceived as progressive and vibrant (City of Darebin, 2017) council area and has become an increasingly sought after as a place to live and work. Darebin is located on the land of the Wurundjeri Woi rrung people of the Kulin Nation and houses important natural assets such as Merri Creek which boarders the western portion of the council area. The demographic composition of people within the suburb varies across ethnicities, faiths, abilities, and occupations (City of Darebin, 2018), hosting 33% of people born overseas (City of Darebin, 2018). Today Darebin is defined as a particularly progressive and gentrified area of inner metropolitan Melbourne.
City of Darebin Context Map
DAREBIN The City of Darebin comprises of the suburbs Alphington, Bundoora, Coburg, Fairfield, Keon Park, Kingsbury, Macleod, Northcote, Preston, Reservoir and Thornbury (City of Darebin, 2018) . As Northcote lies at the southern base of Darebin, it is a defining transit corridor between the city and Darebin’s northern suburbs. The presence of La Trobe University Bundoora campus enhances Northcote as a key transit corridor, as the univeristy houses 30,000 students annually (La Trobe University, 2020). Other key landmarks within the council area are defined by commercial precincts such as Northcote Plaza, Preston Market and the recent development of Northland Shopping Precinct. The City of Darebin was the also the first council worldwide to declare a “Climate Emergency” in December 2016.
Figure 1, Northcote Townhall
Figure 2, Northcote Plaza
NORTHCOTE Northcote lies 5km from the Melbourne CBD and houses a total population of approximately 24,500 people (ABS, 2016). The suburb has a high concentration of multimodal transit, hosting the 86 trams along High Street and 11 trams along St Georges Road. The Hurstbridge and Mernda line also pass through different portions of the suburb thus establishing 5 train stations: Croxton Station, Northcote Station, Merri Station (Mernda Line), Westgarth Station and Dennis Station (Hurstbridge Line).
PART 1
6
Northcote Amenities Map
AMENTITIES The activity centre lies at the heart of the suburb, concentrated around the High Street, Separation Street intersection. This core commercial region is also defined as a major activity centre within the City of Darebin. Key landmarks that contribute largely to the suburbs character are Northcote Plaza (see Figure 2), Northcote Library, Northcote Recreation and Leisure Centre and Northcote Townhall (see Figure 1). Other amenities also focus on the Indigenous and Torres strait islander community, as the suburb hosts a total of 0.8 % population of Indigenous sand Torres Strait Islander peoples, a higher recording average than surrounding inner metropolitan areas (0.6%, ABS, 2016). Northcote also hosts 6 schools spanning across various age intake such as Westgarth Kindergarten, Westgarth Primary school, Northcote Primary School, Northcote High School , Croxton Primary School and St Joseph’s Primary School.
THE HISTORY TRADITIONAL OWNERS
Pr ior to 18 35, the City of Darebin was inhabited by its Traditional Owners Wurundjeri Woi- Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation (City of Darebin, 2008) . The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community remains prevalent within Northcote today and it is important to acknowledged that the natural assets of Northcote such as Merri creek pay homage to the original indigenous communities within the areas, and remain a key part of local aboriginal community today.
COLONISATION
THE PEOPLE POPULATION TRENDS Northcote’s total population as marked by the 2016 census is over 24,142 people (ABS, 2016) . This is predicted to increase by approximately 24 percent from 2021-2040 (Id, 2020), while Darebin as a whole is expected to have an increase of 35 percent in total. Figure 4 highlights that majority of population growth into Northcote in future will having varying driving factors such as migration and then progressing to longer life expectancy of residents.
In 18 35, Batman claimed ownership of 600,000 acres of land (City of Darebin, 2008). This land was acquired through the Batman Treaty and was subsequently divided. In the following years masses of immigrant population from Britain, arrived and populated the Darebin area, and land was bought and sold creating the foundations of the city.
LAND BOOM
In 1870 Melbourne experienced what was known as the ‘Land Boom’, where development and growth took place in large numbers. This brough about increased prosperity for the city of Darebin as a whole and led to a period of economic advantage for the region. Following this period of population and economic influx, the township of Northcote was established, on May 25t h, 188 3 (City of Darebin, 2008).
BECOMING A CITY
In 1914, Northcote was proclaimed as a city a defining moment in the suburb’s history (City of Darebin, 2008). Following this in the 1920, Aboriginal population migrated to Northcote as well as considerable number of immigrants. Immigrants were defined as predominantly, Greek, Italian and Macedonians who settled following the war. The formation of Northcote as its own township, led to investments in local infrastructure such as the tram network functioning simultaneously with the expansion of High Street shopping strip.
A CLIMATE EMERGENCY
In De ce mbe r 2016 City of Darebin became the first council worldwide to declare a climate emergency (City of Darebin, 2016), highlighting the attention and awareness of the community, of the increasing risks climate change has on not only the world but urban environments.
NORTHCOTE TODAY Today, Northcote remains a multicultural and attractive suburb, housing a high proportion of working professionals, transforming from what once was a predominantly industrial based working industry. Northcote is known the progressive character of its residents, and its housing of significant array of schools, art and aboriginal health and community facilities.
Figure 3, Population Change
Births
National Increase
Deaths
Net Migration
Figure 4, Components of Population Change
POLITICAL TRENDS The Northcote community shares progressive attitudes as highlighted in changing political voting. Northcote’s voting history reveals that the current community predominantly votes for the Green Party (ABC, 2018). This demonstrates a large percentage of residents prioritise sustainability and climate change, as these are major policies the Greens Party supports.
Figure 5, Northcote Voting Trends
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SOCIAL PROFILE The average age of Northcote’s residents is 36 years (ABS, 2016), similar to the state average (see Figure 7). Household composition varies from predominantly single household making up 25.9 percent of all residences, while couples with children make up 26.2 percent and couples without children make up 22.7 percent. The high population of households with children can be attributed to the high concertation of schools in the area (as shown on page 7). Lone person households are suspected to remain the most dominant household type up until 2041 (Id, 2020) , highlighting that while the population is expected to increase the demands on housing structure will remain the same.
ECONOMIC PROFILE
HOUSHOLD TYPE Couples with children Couples without children One parent families Other families
Figure 7, Comparitive Analysis (ABS, 2016)
Group holsehold Lone person Not classified
The cultural background of Northcote’s residents is defined most dominantly by Irish, Australian, Scottish Greek and English origins. However, measurements from the 2011 and 2016 census highlight there has beena significant decrease in people with Greek ancestry within the suburb, and a significant increase in ancestry from English, Australian, Irish and Scottish heritage (Id, 2020). There has also been an increase in ethnic backgrounds outside of the five most common within the precinct, such as Italian, German Chinese and Dutch, highlighting Northcote’s evolving multiculturalism (see Figure 6).
To demonstrate Northcote’s economic profile, Figure 7 highlights a comparative analysis between Reservoir located within Darebin City Council, 13 kilometres from the CBD and Ascot Vale located in Melbourne’s west, at a similar distance from the city as Northcote. Northcote holds a high average household income of $1,836 per week in comparison with both the Victorian average and similar suburbs. This strong economic profile is substantiated in the high rate of Northcote residents holding a bachelor’s degree or above (46.7 percent, ABS, 2016). The occupation profile of the suburb also reiterates such factors as Northcote currently has 42 percent working professionals (see graphic below) , while the Victorian average per suburb lies at 25 percent (ABS, 2016). Northcote also has low rates of unemployment as the suburb currently holds unemployment of 4.7 percent, while Victoria records an average of 6.6 percent and the nationwide average is 6.9 percent (ABS, 2016).
OCCUPATION
CULTURAL BACKGROUND Change in Ancestry 2011 to 2016
Irish Australian Scottish Greek English
English Australia Irish Scottish Greek Italian German Chinese Dutch Indian
25%
42%
Professionals Managers Administrative Workers Community Workers Trades Sales Labourers Drivers
-200
-100
0
100
Figure 6, Change in Ancestry
200
300
400
500
600
700
NORTHCOTE
VICTORIA
EXISTING STRATEGIES GLOBAL
METROPOLITAN
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (2015)
Plan Melbourne (2017)
Published in 2015, the United Nations Development Goals outlines a 2030 agenda toward sustainable development that can be accomplished on a international scale. Goals that are relevant and prioritised for the future of Northcote climate resilience are aims such as Goal 11 “Sustainable Cities and Communities” which focuses on forging cities that are inclusive, safe , resilient and sustainable. Goal 13 “Climate Action” also aims for cities to strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate related hazards, which is the key focus of this structure plan (UN, 2020).
Plan Melbourne produced in 2017 considers a timeline of Melbourne’s projected outcomes up until 2050. Relevant areas within the structure plan range from transport, housing and the environment. Specifically, the theme of the environment considers extreme and other related extreme weather events that will affect the liveability of Melbourne as a city in the future.
Rockefeller Foundation 100 Resilient Cities (2013) This report works hand in hand with the Arup Resilient Cities Index outline, which demonstrates how a city’s resilience can be measured and thus responded to appropriately. The 100 Resilient Cities itself is an 160 million dollar effort to build urban resilience across the world, focusing on the “physical, social, and economic challenges that are a growing part of the 21st century” (Rockefeller Foundation ,2013).
Resilient Melbourne Strategy (2016) Resilient Melbourne is a joint project including the 32 metropolitan Melbourne councils as part of the goalto become a part of the 100 Resilient Cities project. Its main focus is on the themes viable, sustainable, liveable and prosperous and how these pillars translate into actions of “adapt”, “survive”, “thrive”, “embed”. This report highlights how community-based resilience can be realised and highlights actions that can start at a neighbourhood level, thus influencing the shaping of this structure plan.
NATIONAL LOCAL National Climate Resilience and Adaptation Strategy (2015) The nation-wide Climate Resilience Strategy focuses on the three key areas of “communities, the economy and the environment.” Primarily the strategy focuses on how climate resilience and economic prosperity can be intrinsically linked in the future. The strategy is most relevant to Northcote’s structure plan through its focus on the reduction of future climate risks through the minimisation of emissions.
STATE Victoria’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan (2017-2020) Released by the Andrews Government in 2017, Victoria’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan “lays out a blueprint” of how the state will combat challenges of climate change. It addresses areas of sustainability and creating an adaptable place for people to live work and play. The reports key principles focus on informed and integrated decision making, risk management, equity and community engagement.
PART 1
Darebin Climate Emergency Action Plan (2017) Following 2016, the hottest year on record the City of Darebin released a Climate Emergency action plan “to provide maximum protection for the community of Darebin” to future climate threats. This followed the consideration that national and state government actions were currently “insufficient for achieving future sustainability targets”. Key goals within the plan that relate to this report specifically are “Energy Efficiency”, “Adaption and Resilience” and “Engaging the Community”
City Of Darebin Council Plan( 2017-2021)
One of the key goals of this council plan is “a sustainable city” which aims to create “innovative projects that address climate change.” This goal considers how active transport, solar energy, reduced waste and strategy water management are key concerns of Northcote’s sustainable and resilient future. As this is at a local level and addressing local implementation goals, this report provides a key influence in the shaping of Northcote’s future strategic directions within this structure plan.
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ANALYSING NORTHCOTE
ZONING BUILT FORM HOUSING TRANSPORT ENVIRONMENT
ZONING
Northcote Zoning Map
ZONING Northcote’s current zoning is dominated primarily by residential land use making up a total 80% of the suburb. These residential areas as shown in shades of pinks on the accompanying map, can be broken down into various categories, which differ in regulation of building heights and density. Neighbourhood residential zoning which is more predominant in the west of the suburb, encapsulates land area dominated by Victoria and Edward style buildings, while comparative general residential zoning includes Victorian, Edwardian and Inter-war mix style dwelling types (City of Darebin, 2017). Commercial zoning is allocated in areas to enhance retail, office, business, entertainment and community uses (VPA, 2018). Currently, commercial zoning is concentrated within the precincts core at the intersection of High Street, Arthurton Road and Separation Street. This creates increased dependence on commercial activity within the precincts centre and can be attributed to a lack of secondary commercial district that is accessible to other areas of the suburb. This in turn largely minimises walkability, increasing car usage and thus increasing carbon emissions. St George’s Road is also categorised by pockets of commercial zoning, however due to the lower densuty and inconsitent commercial land use, much of the existing commercial land plots lay dormant and underutilised.
MIXED USE Mixed use is a key element of urban sustainability and resilience as it offers the potential maximise walkability, minimise car dependence, and thus reduce air pollution and urban heat vulnerability (Bahadure & Kotharkar, 2015). As highlighted by the shades of red on the map, Northcote currently houses significantly minimal mixed used development making up less than 10% of current land use zoning. The current allocation of mixed use is spread sparsely across suburb, highlighting no specific integration with the existing urban fabric or commercial districts. Thus, such land use allocation could be increased in future to enhance the walkability and spatial allocation of commerical catchment areas.
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Northcote Building Heights Map
BUILT FORM
C
D
BUILDING TYPOLOGY Building typology and land parcel size varies across the suburb, ranging from small scale permeable residential land plots, to large scale industrial zones (see Figure B and C). Northcote Plaza, located at the heart of suburb (see Figure 10), highlights a 20th century large scale shopping development, dominated by surrounding car parks and epitomising poorly established permeability. High Street rather, has smaller blocks with adjoined frontages that define the commercial strip. Larger plots characterised by current or previous industrial use centre around the Merri Creek and Arthurton Road, these land areas pose considerable challenges for appropriate land use allocation, poses risks toward urban heat and poor implementation of green space and environmental resilience initiatives.
A B
Building heights are defined by the strategic zoning implemented on residential development across the suburb. Building heights present as lower, of a maximum building height of 9 metres in the western and south western region, designated at lower lying typographical areas. Unique building height allocation lies in residential growth zones at the north western corner of the precinct, highlighting the need to accommodate increase demand and population. The commercial district focused on the central axis has become a focus of high-density development, creating more congestion and pressure on the suburb’s primary commercial centre. A
PART 2
HIGH STREET
50m
B
RESIDENTIAL BLOCKS BORDERING MCDONELL PARK
POST INDUSTRIAL
C SITE
NORTHCOTE PLAZA
D AND ALDI
Northcote Heritage Overlay Map
HERITAGE A unique asset of Northcote’s character is the presence and preservation of its heritage buildings. A high concertation of heritage buildings within the suburb surround the southern portion of High Street, where majority of Northcote’s first commercial precinct was established in 1883 (see map right). The Darebin 2013 housing strategy (City of Darebin) places importance on respecting heritage buildings within its 6 key objectives. It outlines that future housing must “protect areas of recognised building character and heritage and promote high quality residential amenity and outcomes.” The report also outlines that due to Darebin’s prevalent heritage overlays, future development is limited to areas such as brownfield and infill redevelopment. Loss of specific architecture could dissolve the robustness and variety of the existing built landscape, however the sustainable standards of existing heritage buildings should be optimised to accomdate a future sustainable and resilient precinct.
C A
Figure 8, Victorian Style Home
Figure 10, Northcote Plaza
B
Figure 9, Edwardian Style Home
Figure 11, Industrial Land
A
Figure 12, Townhall
B
Figure 13, Northcote Theatre
C Figure 14, Heritage Building
14
Design and Development Overlay Map
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT The Design and Development Overlay is defined as areas that require specific design treatment. Commonly it is delegated to areas of future increased development and possible intensification of density and use. Development in these areas is restricted to specific requirements regarding building setbacks, building height, plot ratio and landscaping. As highlighted in map (see right image) the current focus of design and development within Northcote is concentrated on key commercial corridors such as St Georges Road and High Street and the surrounding activity centre. These areas are also focussed along key transit corridors such as the 86 and 11 tram routes. Related design and development contributions currently taking place in these areas is the redevelopment of Northcote Plaza into a high-density apartment focussed area, with enhanced walkability established through separated high-density blocks (see Figure 17) St Georges Road rather is defined as a strategic corridor by the City of Darebin “is to enable north south traffic movement to fringe areas of suburban Melbourne� (2013) this also serves to facilitate surrounding infrastructure and growth. The 2013 St Goerges Road Urban Study also projects that future roles of the corridor will be to serve regional transit roles and evolving into areas of concentrated development. These areas are also projected to offer opportunities of built intensification consisting of mainly 4-6 storey apartment style developments (City of Darebin, 2013) . Future development along the corridor would enhance walkability in the west of the suburb, and alleviate the pressure of residents to community to the central activity centre for basic commercial needs.
HIGH STREET
East Elevation, Lawry Street to Mitchell Street
ST GEORGES ROAD
West Elevation, Beavers Road to Gladstone Avenue
Figure 16, Northcote Plaza
NORTHCOTE PLAZA
Figure 17, Northcote Plaza future development
HOUSING DENSITY AND DEVELOPMENT Due to demand for living within Northcote and population increase, pockets of intense high and mid storey development have begun taking shape across the suburb. Higher density such as Northcote Plaza Apartments, Bell Street apartments and Robs parade demonstrate compact development taking place within the precinct’s activity centre (see map page 17). Urban renewal developments such as Merri Green and the Gadd Street have replaced industrial use land plots, demonstrating strategic urban renewal. These developments also increase sustainable land allocation, through improving landscaping and the presence of street level greening within the developments. While much of St Georges Road lays dormant to higher density development, Victoria Road at the east of the precinct, has been a recent focus of higher density (shown in figure F and H, page 17). This draws attention to whether mixed use and commercial industry should be allocated along Victoria Road, as it has been along St Georges Road to cater to increased population in the east of the suburb.
Figure 20, Walker Street Development projected visualisaton Walker Street social housing estate in the south of the precinct (see map page 17) has also recently become the focus of future development. The Victorian Government recently committed to replacing the existing 86 dwellings with a minimum of 106 new social houses and approximately 140 house dwellings (Victoria Government, 2020) . The projected development thus will house private dwelling in conjunction with uplifted social housing. The prospected construction is also committed to fulfilling a 5 Green Star rating, to enhance sustainable built form in the area.
SOCIAL HOUSING
SUSTAINABILITY STANDARDS
Creating a suburb that accommodates all socio-economic standards is a key element in climate resilience. Currently Northcote offers an extremely low percentage of social housing. Northcote Rental Housing Co- Op located on Separation Street is the only active and existing social housing cooperative. The rental housing project offers “inclusive and member governed” (Housing Co-Op, 2020) quality affordable homes for members of low- and moderate-income groups.
A key aspect of facilitating climate resilience is through the implementation of sustainable built form regulations. The Darebin 2017-2021 structure plan outlines a key goal of “a sustainable city”. Objectives within this goal, focus on reducing greenhouse emissions throughout the City of Darebin. One such scheme implemented is Darebin os Solar Saver Scheme, whereby the council buys solar panels and then sells them to residents to pay over a ten-year period free of interest (City of Darebin, 2020) . This also coincides with the council’s goal to double solar power usage within the suburb from approximately 18,000 kilowatts to 36,000 kilowatts by 2025 (City of Darebin, 2020). In 2014 Darebin council published a series of reports outlining the environment sustainable development principles across various dwelling types. The reports outline recommendations for dwellings such as “maximise natural ventilation” “minimise west facing windows to limit heat gain” and “install fixed shading” , in an aim to target eco-friendly residential dwellings. However, the standards do not specify laws or regulations on future development to maximise sustainability goals. Such issues are evident in the construction of higher density development across the precinct. Beavers Road mid density apartments (see figure 18 and 19) highlight how development is presented green and sustainablebut once constructed, attributes to increase in urban heat and minimisation of street level greening capacity.
Figure 18, Beavers Road development visualised outcome. PART 2
Figure 19, Beavers Road development realistic outcome
16
Northcote Dwelling Density Map
G
A
406/17 Robbs Parade 8 storey mid-high rise
E
B
D
E
A B
Northcote Plaza Apartments Highrise apartments
H F
Merri Green Development High density townhouse
121 Victoria Road Mid density
F
C C
30 Pearl Street (Helix Development) Townhouse
D 302/ 1 Bent Street 8 storey mid-high rise
G
H
Gadd Street Redevelopment Townhouse
168 Victoria Road High density townhouse
TRANSPORT Public transport is a key element in a resilient city. As the Darebin Transport Strategy (2007) outlines motorised transport is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the leading cause of climate change. Successful adaption to future climate risks requires a robust transport network. Thus, Northcote’s current transport can be assessed through considering quality by means of infrastructure, access, and frequency.
BUS NETWORK
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
TRAIN NETWORK
Through analysing an 800-metre catchment from bus, tram and train stations and stops, areas with low level transport access can be identified. Currently the north eastern region of Northcote is restricted to the bus network. As highlighted on the bus network map, majority of the existing bus routes function on an east -west axis. This limit residents’ living the north eastern ability to travel directly toward the CBD or toward north Darebin to commercial regions such as Preston Market and Northland Shopping Centre. The bus networks also demonstrate minimal integration with train station across the suburb that would support a multi-modal approach for user when travelling to places such as the CBD. Currently the 251/250 bus is the only route that travels in notable proximity to a train station. None of the existing bus routes are directed directly to a train station, indicating clear gaps in the multimodal capabilities of the network.
TRAM NETWORK
ACCESS
ENTIRE NETWORK
MERNDA LINE
Northcote Bus Network Map
HURSTBRIDGE LINE
11 TRAM (route 11)
86 TRAM (route 6)
18
INFRASTRUCTURE Current infrastructure of the bus network is very poorly established lacking street furniture and cyclist infrastructure. This is also evident across each of the train stations as they lack bike infrastructure, public toilets, and customer service stations. The train stations are also extremely dated, dominated by asphalt finishes, making them unappealing for commuters during hot weather events. 8 89
The quality of tram infrastructure varies across the suburb. The street hierarchy of St Georges (see figure 23 and 25), aims to create a safe transition for commuters onto the 11 tram, however as stops are stationed in the middle of the busy vehicle corridor, pedestrians are left often competing with oncoming traffic. High Street highlights a variety of investment in tram stop infrastructure (see figure 22). South of Separation Street traffic calming strategies such as a raised bike lanes improve pedestrian tram integration. However, north of Separation Street, tram stops have minimal signage and no evident investment in the integration of commuters within the street hierarchy.
589
589
58 8
86
589
Figure 22, High Street tram stop hierarchy
Figure 21, Transort frequency analysis
FREQUENCY Figure 21 highlights the frequency distribution across the train, tram and bus network. The Darebin Transport Strategy (2007), emphasises that current service frequency is poorly distributed as “different forms of transport virtually duplicate each other” as they offer similar services at similar times. This is evident in the current bus network ,where buses function on similar routes and frequencies. Each mode of transport also has poorly distributed frequency on both Saturdays and Sundays. This is a particular issue for residents within the north eastern portion of the suburb who desire to use public transport on the weekends. It also implies that residents aiming to commute to the precinct’s activity centre through services such 567 and 508 would be more inclined to use motor vehicle as a primary transport option. Thus creating an increased demand for parking and car use within the central activity centre across weekends. Clear improvements and enhanced frequency would alleviate demands on car use within the suburb and support climate resilient, sustainable and connected approach to urban living.
Figure 23, St Georges Road
Figure 25, St Georges Road bike route
Figure 24, Northcote station
Figure 26, Suburban bus stop
ACTIVE TRANSPORT Active modes of transport such as cycling and walking are key elements of forging a resilient and climate ready urban precinct. Active modes of transport diffuse car use, and thus minimise carbon emissions, however these modes are only viable if supported by safe, accessibility and well established infrastructure.
Figure 27, Cyclist route along Mernda Line
CYCLABILITY The Darebin Cycling Strategy produced in 2013 outlines Darebin as “ one of Melbourne’s most popular places to cycle.” This is reiterated by the increased proportion of bike use to and from work within Northcote in recent years, rating the highest of all suburbs within the City of Darebin at 16% (ABS,2016). Currently there is a significant lack of bike infrastructure such as bike racks, parking facilities and sheltered parking at tram stops, and train stations. This subtracts from the opportunity for Northcote to offer a multidimensional transport system and detracts from the attractiveness of bike ridership within the suburb.
Figure 28, Gadd Street
Figure 29/ 30 Level Crossings along Mernda Line
Northcote Cyclist Map
Currently Northcote cyclist network is extremely disjointed. Many lanes end abruptly or compete highly with motor vehicle traffic. Key examples of this are highlighted on both Arthurton Road and St Georges Road. Bike Spot (2020), an online open forum for cyclists, highlights areas of cyclist’s unsafety particularly across intersections of St Georges Road, where cyclist have commented on the competition between drivers across the speedway. Subsequently, while there is a variety of bike paths established on main roads such as High Street and St Georges Road, there is no clear linkages from these routes onto adjoining side streets. Cyclability is not only determined by cycling lanes and infrastructure but also the comfort of the user and aesthetics of the cyclist trip. Revisions to the cyclist network to invest in routes on side streets or along ecological corridors, such as Merri Creek and along well canopy covered train lines, may offer a more protected and attractive cyclist network in future.
WALKABILITY The design and quality of pedestrian paths is integral in enhancing and encouraging walkability. Currently lack of pedestrian level greening throughout the suburb, particularly on main arterial roads such as Arthurton Road and Separation Street contribute to inadequate streetscapes for walking. This can also be attributed to harsh pavement finishes such as asphalt and concrete, which become increasing deterrent during hot weather, as they increase surface temperature and heat vulnerability. Inconsistent thoroughfares for users such as level crossings or discontinuous paths, also create unattractive areas to walk. This is evident along the Hurstbridge and Mernda train line corridorsencompassing a high concentration of level crossings.
PART 2
20
THE ENVIRONMENT
Canopy Cover, Green Space, Community Space Map
COMMUNITY SPACE
COMMUNITY SPACE A study by Arup (2014) outlines that the design of communities on a local and neighbourhood scale plays an integral role in establishing resilient and sustainable communities. Northcote’s progressive and sustainability-focused community attitudes are evident in the community gardens, parks and vegetated nature strips spread throughout the western portion of the precinct (see map right). Land parcels surrounding the Mernda line corridor host a variety of inclusive community foci. One of which is the Northcote Community Garden (see Figure 31), which encourages residents to contribute to sustainable initiatives such as a community composting system. Other spaces along the train line offer opportunities to re-invigorate already established spaces, such as tennis courts, basketball courts and playgrounds. A unique asset of the suburbs is residents’ enthusiasm to develop nature strips into both garden patches or vegetable gardens. This is concentrated most predominantly around Croxton Primary School and Northcote Station.
CANOPY COVER Adequate canopy cover is a key element of a climate ready precinct. Canopy cover significantly reduces both carbon emission and urban heat. A 10% increase in canopy cover and vegetation can also reduce surface temperatures by 1 degree when exposed to daytimesunlight (Norton, et al. 2015). Over the last 4 years Northcote has experienced an increase in vegetation cover of 5-10% across the entire suburb. Majority of canopy cover is prevalent along Merri Creek and Northcote Golf Course. However, due to the expected increasing in global temperatures, it is integral that canopy cover is focussed on areas such as streetscapes and small scale vegetation integration, as well as implementing increased canopy cover in existing open spaces.
Figure 31, Vegetable gardens (Left to Right, St Georges Road, Northcote Community Garden, Bird Avenue)
OPEN SPACE Green spaces within a region can be assessed through the theory of corridor, patch and matrix (Coutts, 2016). This specifies how the interplay of large open spaces (patches) and elongated narrower patches (corridors) creates a connected system in what is known as a matrix. The establishment of a matrix is a key element of creating a functional and cohesive network of green spaces. As shown by the isometric map, Northcote currently holds a high concentration of green space patches, however access to these green spaces is limited in areas due to their functions. This is evident in the variety of green spaces that are defined as part of school lots, thus not accessible to a high proportion of public use. Northcote private golf, is also not open for public use creating a lower variety of accessible open space in the northern portion of the suburb. Corridors between these green spaces also have the capacity to be greatly improved as both land parcels that follow St Georges Road, the Mernda Train Line and Hurstbridge Line, offer minimal levels of vegetation and canopy cover on largely vacant land parcels. Merri Creek however offers a shaded and dense ecological corrdior within the subrb, however it currently lacks clear pathways, signage and lighting for users.
All Nation Park approx. 13.9ha
McDonell Park approx. 8.87ha
Merri Park approx. 5.85ha
Johnson Park approx. 2.08ha
Gumbri Park approx. 1.64ha
Northcote Golf Course approx. 25.7ha
PART 2
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Flooding and Erosion Map
Figure 32, Merri Creek
FLOODING AND EROSION Due to Northcote’s undulating typography, the precinct is subject to areas of flooding and inundation. This poses challenges toward the management of storm water run-off particularly around Merri Creek which has undergone a process of ecological rehabilitation in recent years. Other areas of considerable inundation risks surround north High Street and McDonnell Park. This is reiterated in the special building overlay(VPA, 2018) allocated to areas subject to flood and inundation risks. Thus, presenting challenges to the integration of mixed use and higher density development within these areas. Erosion and erosion management is also a subsequent issue within inundation and flooding of Merri Creek. There is currently areas of mixed use and development allocated within erosion zones, which must be managed strategically in future to ensure a climate resilient and adaptive built environment.
Land Contours Map
Northcote Urban Heat Map
Figure 33, Gadd Street Carpark
Figure 34, All Nations Park Car Park
URBAN HEAT AND HEAT VULNERABILITY Urban heat and increased areas of heat vulnerability pose major threats to the climate resilience of urban areas. Northcote experiences high levels of urban heat, of temperature 5-10 degrees higher than rural surroundings (Sun et al, 2019). This can be attributed to the concentration of dark impervious services evident in carparking across the suburb. In particular sites such as Northcote Plaza and Northside Boulders, maintain considerably high surface temperatures during daylight hours due to asphalt finishes, and lack of vegetation (see upper right map). Heat vulnerability conversely is measured using a heat vulnerability index and whereby stakeholders are considered within rating the heat vulnerability of an area. St Joseph’s Home, an aged care facility in the centre of the precinct, is thus rated the highest HVI, due to the vulnerability of its elderly residents (see Figure 36). Thus, strategic greening of both the aged car facility and existing car parks should be considered to improve resilience in future.
Figure 35, Seperation Street
Northcote Heat Vulnerability Index Map
Figure 36, St Joseph’s Aged Care Home
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EVALUATION
ISSUES OPPORTUNITIES
ISSUES
LEVEL CROSSING/ POOR BIKE INFRASTRUCTURE
POOR STREET HIERARCHY
Northcote Issues Map
Poor street hierarchy is evident across the suburb, leading to compromised pedestrian accessibility and user friendliness. This is a particular issue along St Georges Road where pedestrians and cyclists currently compete with motorists driving at high speeds. This could be minimised by actions such as decreasing car speeds in given areas.
Along both the Mernda and Hurstbridge train line there is a high variety of level crossings. This not only compromises pedestrian safety but creates unattractive and incohesive pedestrian and bike networks for cyclists and pedestrians.
AREA OF LOW CYCLIST SAFETY As recorded from cyclists themselves, areas along St Georges Road, and southern areas of High Street hold diminished perceptions of cyclist safety. Encouraging cyclability leads to decreased carbon emissions through diffused car use, and thus minimises impacts of climate change. These areas should thus be facilitated to enhance bike ridership in the area.
POOR STREET LEVEL GREENING Canopy cover and small-scale street level vegetation is an important part of decreasing urban heat and heat vulnerability, and increasing the walkability of urban areas. Increasing street level greening, particularly canopy cover is recorded to also impact on decreased car speeds within areas, thus greening should be focussed within main roads in commercial areas.
POORLY ESTABLISHED BUS STOP Well established and appealing bus infrastructure is a key element in enhancing and encouraging commuters to use public transport. Across the suburb there is currently minimal seating, greening and bike infrastructure established at bus stops.
BUS ONLY CATCHMENT AREA SUBJECT TO INNUNDATION The north eastern portion of the suburb is restricted to a bus only catchment of 800m. This means that residents are restricted to the infrequency and unreliable bus network, that currently has minimal linkage with other modes of public transport. This also creates issues such as car reliability.
Areas subject to inundation pose a unique threat to Northcote’s climate resilience. Due to increased extreme weather events, strategies should aim to manage risks inundation have on areas built form and native ecology.
HIGH URBAN HEAT MINIMAL MIXED USE Mixed use is an integral part of creating a walkable precinct. Walkability is a main driver of sustainable urban form, through its minimisation of car use. Areas of mixed used should thus be increased to provide for future population increase, and also aim to provide a secondary commercial district.
18%
Darebin total carbon emission also highlight issues 46% within the suburbs as the highest contributor to total carbon emissions are residential energy and commercial industry. This highlights a need to establish 35% stronger regulations in both commercial and residents areas to minimise the contribution Northcote’s Commercial/ Industrial emissions have on global warming (City of Darebin, 2020). Residential energy Transport
PART 3
Concrete dominated areas across Northcote such as All Nations car park and Arthurton Road exemplify issues surrounding increased temperatures. It is integral that the urban heat and heat vulnerability of these areas be minimised to ensure Northcote can adapt to future temperature increase.
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OPPORTUNITIES IMPROVE STREETSCAPES
Northcote Opportunities Map
IMPROVE BIKE INFRASTRUCTURE Bike infrastructure is a key element in encouraging residents to consider cycling. Bike racks and shelter bike facilities should be increased throughout the suburb. Train stations provide a strong opportunity to increase the interaction between active and public transport, through improving bike infrastructure.
Improving streetscapes targets issues such as poor street hierarchy and street scapes in main commercial areas. By providing street enhancement active transit can be optimised and attractiveness of commercial areas.
ENHANCE COMMUNITY SPACE Climate resilient cities should seek to adapt to projected changes in weather events. By increasing water gardens and blue infrastructure in areas currently subject to flooding and inundation risks, Northcote can ensure it will be climate ready.
ESTABLISH GREEN CORRIDORS Establishing green corridors along they public transit areas, with not only improve ecology but also reduce the risk of urban heat. Creating green corridors in these areas will also enable enhanced pedestrianisation and cyclability through improving cooling and street aesthetics.
WATER GARDENS & BLUE INFRASTRUCTURE Northcote currently has a variety of community spaces and community gardens. To ensure inclusivity of all residents, existing run down community spaces should be enhanced and revitalised to prepare for the future.
IMPROVE GREENSPACE Improving streetscapes targets issues such - Existing green spaces across the suburb offer the opportunity to enhance existing land use composition This can be achieved through increase in small scale vegetation and tree canopy cover, making spaces more attractive for users and minimising threats of urban heat.
PART 3
IMPROVE CYCLIST ROUTE INCREASE DENSITY & MIXED USE Mixed used is a key element of activating commercial areas and enhance access and walkability to commercial areas across a precinct. Through delegating more mixed use within both High Street and St Georges Road, walkability o the suburb can be enhanced.
As bike ridership has increased significantly within Northcote across the last decade, it is important to support residents with evolved and strategic bike networks. Cohesive links should be established surrounding existing cyclist corridors, particularly on side streets, to encourage bike use.
A RESILIENT FUTURE
VISION OBJECTIVE SUMMARY CONNECTED GREEN CLIMATE READY INCLUSIVE
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OUR VISION Climate Resilient Northcote: a collective mindset for a climate ready future. Demonstrating how a connected, inclusive, green and climate ready suburb can adapt and prosper.
PART 4
OBJECTIVE SUMMARY CLIMATE RESILIENCE Resilient cities not only aim to adapt to future risks but aim to prosper in the face of adversity. For Northcote to prosper and flourish in the future, strategic objectives and actions must be taken to ensure this progressive and vibrant suburb is prepared for the impeding threats of climate change.
THE COLLECTIVE The Melbourne Resilient Strategy outlines that the strengths of our “diverse communities” “are stronger together” (2016) when faced with the challenges of the future. Northcote is built upon established community and thus, by creating a vision that focuses on the power of the collective, Northcote can take advantage of existing inclusive community.
OUR OBJECTIVES This vision is built on the 4 themes of connected, green, climate ready, and inclusive. All harbouring specific needs from different urban elements, empowering Northcote, to adapt and thrive. These themes a the key catalyst for 7 strategic objective that target all key areas of enforcing a climate resilient Northcote. These objectives are: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7)
Enhance multimodal transport Create a place that is pedestrian friendly Promote sustainable built form Prioritise a green suburb Future proof Northcote to flooding Create opportunities for community interaction Ensure the inclusion of social minorities
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#01 CONNECTED
OBJECTIVE 1.1
Enhance multimodal transport. Northcote will be a suburb that creates strong links between active transport modes. Effective allocation of transit services and revised transport infrastructure will encourage residents to prioritise public transport use over the motor vehicle optimising the suburbs potential to achieve minimised carbon commissions for a climate ready future.
WHAT IS CONNECTED? To be connected is an important part of climate resilience, as carbon emissions from road transport currently contribute %25.10 of all emissions produced in the City of Darebin (2019). A focus on empowering Northcote to be connected both through public and active transport, will foster a sustainable suburb, minimise emissions, and target issues of urban heat.
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#01 CONNECTED A COHESIVE LOOK AT NORTHCOTE’S IMPROVED CONNECTIVITY.
KEY INTENSE STATION UPGRADE AND LEVEL CROSSING REMOVAL LOW LEVEL STATION UPGRADES REVITALISED BUS STOPS MERRI CREEK BIKE AND PEDESTRIAN PATH MERNDA TRAIN LINE RAISE NEW 40 ZONE, INCREASED COMMERICIAL AREA WELL ESTABLISHED BIKE PATHS NEW BUS ROUTE
ACTION 1.1.1
CATALYST PROJECT:
MERNDA LINE UPGRADE
Raise the Mernda train line, creating a protected and inclusive transport corridor for cyclists and pedestrians as well as reinvigorating dated train stations.
Existing Croxton Station
The raising of the Mernda line is a major catalyst project, anticipated to redefine transit and connectivity across Northcote. The project draws largely from the Dandenong to Caulfield train line raise. The project outlines the raising of the Mernda Line and subsequent revitalization of factors such as: Improve bike infrastructure at major stations by creating uncovered bike racks and bike lockers, and storage facilities
No bike paths or access Pedestrain level crossing
Administer a newly established additional service desk a Northcote station to allow improved support for commuters
Pedestrain level crossing Current rail seperates green recreational spaces
Enhance existing community gardens at both Croxton and Northcote Station Create new and invigorated train stations, which minimize the existing use of asphalt Create a modern and innovative transit, ecological, and recreational corridor that binds the east and west of the suburb, by reinvigorating previously underutilized land parcels as native corridors with dense canopy cover
CURRENT
Bike path on central axis
Removal of all pedestrian level crossings
Remove all level street crossings for pedestrians creating a cohesive pedestrian and cyclist network Create a cohesive and protected cyclist thoroughfare that runs done the Mernda Line north- south axis , relieving pressure on cyclists on St Georges Road
Use of blue ashpalt reduces urban heat island effect
Protective walls creating prospect and refuge relationship with road
Large open green space connecting both sides
End of trip facilities such as toilet and showers at each transit to enhance bike ridership to and from stations Remove level crossing for motorists reducing traffic congestion along Arthurton Road
Run down tennis courts (blue) and playfground (orange)
Renewed public tennis courts on larger scale
PROJECTED OUTCOME
Re- establish recreational spaces the surrounding Croxton station such as local tennis courts, playground and basketball court B A
B
A Coloured over head structures to protect cyclists from weather conditions. Train line runs cohesively over recreational spaces
PROJECT OUTCOMEDE INCLUDING RAIL ABOVE
Find on objective map
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ACTION 1.1.2
ACTION 1.1.4
Improve existing bus networks by re-allocating services to accommodate demands and peak hour volumes, particularly in the suburb’s north west.
Revitalise and redesign existing bus stops particularly in bus only catchment areas.
CURRENT NETWORK FREQUENCY
PROJECTED NETWORK FREQUNECY
This action outlines the increased frequency of bus networks across the suburb. Importantly frequencies will be significantly boosted across weekends to increase access to the activity centre. This will also aim to diffuse car use and thus parking demands within the activity centre at peak periods. Frequencies will encounter a trial period where demands for new bus services will be recorded and thus implemented where needed, to stop the potential offer supply of buses.This aims to support residents using public transport, and reduce carbon emissions from private vehicle use.
This action outlines the revitalization and renovation of bus stop infrastructure across the suburb. New bus stops along selected areas (see objective map page 33), will support commuters particularly in the north western portion of the suburb who lie within the bus only catchment. Not only will these bus stops provide bike racks and disability access but will also include innovative green roofs, to counteract effects of urban heat, and increase greening within the suburb.
ACTION 1.1.3 Provide a new bus route on the north-south access of the suburb.
Figure 37, Seperation Street bus stop
Find on objective map
A new bus route will be established on the north south axis in the eastern region of the suburb. This route will aim to enhance residents’ access to the CBD and activity centers in north Darebin such a Northland Shopping Centre and Preston Market. The route also provides residents with a direct line to the Hurstbridge line, as it planned to stop as Westgarth station. This critically enhances Northcote’s multimodal connectivity.
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PRECEDENT: UTRECHT, HOLLAND Utrecht implemented the renovation of 316 bus stop across the city and outfit them with “green roofs” to support street level greening and ecology of native plants, flowers and bee colonies.
ACTION 1.1.5
Projected Bike Network Map KEY MERRI CREEK PATH
Reduce all speeds along St Georges Road to a 40.
FUTURE BIKE PATHS A
Through the reduction of speed limits along St Goerges Road from Merri Creek to Bird Avenue to 40 kilometres, this action aims to restore cyclists’ perception of safety across this route. Currently there is a unanimous opinion among cyclists that motorists are unobservant to existing signage to give way to cyclist at key intersections. By minimizing speed limits, this action serves to restore the street hierarchy on St Georges Road to prioritizes both cyclist and pedestrians.
ACTION 1.1.6
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Establish a cohesive and protected bike network by linking side streets to main arterial roads.
A significant action within this structure outlines investment in cohesive bike networks across the entirety of the suburb. As cyclist ridership has increased in recent years this is a key action to facilitate enhanced use of active transport. Key routes where considerable cyclist infrastructure will be established are along Merri Creek, the Mernda Train Line and across a variety of side streets that serve to connect riders along the east-west axis of the suburb without feeling confined to compete with bus and motorist traffic along Arthurton Road. Find on objective map
PRECEDENT MELBOURNE CBD Melbourne is currently implementing a protected bike lanes project for Melbourne cyclists across the city. The initiative includes the installation of more than 500 metres of new protected bike paths, as part of the aim to create 40km of new bike lanes over the next two years.
A
Figure 38, West Gadd Street
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ACTION 1.2.1 Activate St Georges Road as key commercial corridor and residential development hub that employs mixed use.
ACTION 1.2
Create a place that is pedestrian friendly.
A key contributor to an areas walkability is land use mix (Dovey & Pafka ,2020) This action focuses on the activation of St Georges Road as a key commercial corridor, achieved through allocation of mixed use zoning . This will replace the existing industrial and neighborhood residential zoning that occupies majority of the major transit strip. As shown in sections below this presents the opportunity to administer high density sustainable development and reduce reliance on the major activity centre as the only major commercial area within the suburb.
CURRENT West Elevation, Beavers Road to Gladstone Avenue
Walkability is a defining attribute in creating a sustainable urban area. Pedestrianisation of Northcote will be achieved to the integration of robust connectivity, permeability, and mix (Dovey & Pafka, 2020), thus making Northcote a vibrant and attractive precinct for pedestrians. PROJECTED OUTCOME
Find on objective map
ACTION 1.2.2 Establish Merri Creek as a safe and viable pedestrian and cyclist route through establishing clear signage, lighting, and pavement finishes.
While the Merri Creek trail is frequently used it has no existing supporting signage, pavement or lighting to support pedestrians. This action aims to support walkability surrounding Merri Creek through the development of a paved walkway, with adequate street lighting and signage. This also serves to connect green spaces along the west of the suburb more substantially. The walkway will also create a viable route for cyclists through the north south axis of the suburb and will service as protected corridor from hot weather events due to the pre-existing dense tree canopy cover that provides adequate shading.
Figure 40, Projected building standards for Northcote’s future public realm.
ACTION 1.2.3 Deliver building interfaces that are pedestrian focussed (low walls as edges maintaining , clear site lines to help orient pedestrians, entry ways, pavement materials, sunlight, ratio between buildings).
ACTION 1.2.4 Establish development standards that ensure the scale, height, setbacks and interfaces of new development create a high-quality public realm.
Both action 1.2.3 and 1.2.4 focus on the importance of built infrastructure to incorporate design standards that respond to pedestrianized and cohesive integration of built form within streetscapes. Each action is influenced by the Fishermans Bend Framework (2018) which focuses on executing a high-level public realm through built form regulations. Both 1.2.3 and 1.2.4 can be negotiated when administering future mid- and high-rise development along commercial strips, particularly along High Street. It is integral that accommodating for increase in population does not diminish sunlight access and strategized setbacks for an optimal public realm.
CURRENT
Find on objective map
Figure 39, Visualisation Merri Creek path revitalised
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#02 GREEN
OBJECTIVE 2.1
Promote sustainable built form. Promoting sustainable built form is a key objective in ensuring both existing and future built structure within Northcote, enhances the suburbs sustainability. A sustainable and climate resilient suburb can be realised to providing actions that implement strong built form regulations and standards that incorporate innovative and environmentally sensitive design practices.
WHAT IS GREEN? A green Northcote means a place that is not only eco-friendly, and sustainable, but also a suburb that demonstrates how a lush green urban landscape can be realised. A focus on green across both the built and natural environment means that Northcote will be counteracting future threat rising temperatures, and urban heat have on urban living.
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#02 GREEN THE FUTURE OF NORTHCOTE’S GREEN URBAN FABRIC.
KEY IMPROVED GREEN SPACE QULAITY REDEFINED LAND USE AND MINIMISE UHI MAIN FOCUS OF SUSTINABLE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS COMMERCIAL AREAS SUBJECT TO INCREASE GREEN STAR RATING ECOLOGICAL CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT IMPROVED STREET LEVEL GREENNING
ACTION 2.1.1 Require the inclusion of private green open space in all developments, including private gardens, communal gardens, civic squares, balconies, and rooftop spaces.
All future commercial developments will include green space and integrate urban ecology. This action will not only enhance the variety and aesthetic of the suburb but will target the key threat high density development poses to urban heat and heat vulnerability. This requirement is specific to buildings above 4 stories.
PRECEDENT ARDEN STRUCTURE PLAN Such strategies have been integrated into the Arden renewal plan whereby future built for is required to follow the 1:3 ratio rule. This outlines that any building above 4 stories by delegate 40% of the land parcel to green space contribution.
Find on objective map
Dalziel Lane Northcte
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ACTION 2.1.2
ACTION 2.1.4
Revitalise the green rating of existing residential and commercial building by promoting a “ Green Buildings Funding Scheme” across the suburb in an aim to achieve energy balanced retail and homes.
This action largely coincides with Darebin Council’s existing Solar Saver Scheme aiming to double solar power from approximately 18,000 kilowatts to 36,000 kilowatts by 2021 through the installation of solar panels. The Green Building Scheme is directed toward funding the retro-fitting and retro-commissioning of existing commercial, and residential building across the suburb. This will increase the climate resilience of Northcote by decreasing release of carbon emissions,.This action targets both commercial industry and residential energy as they are the largest contributor to emissions across the City of Darebin .
Retrofit 75% of existing heritage buildings with solar pannnels or other sustainable intiatives to increase overall green star ratings by 2050.
As a high variety of Northcote’s built form is categorised as heritage portected buildings. It is important to integrate such structures into the future of Northcote’s resilient and sustainable urban landscape. This action aims to target existing issues within heritage buildings in relation to eco-friendliness and Green Star rating. Such standards can also instill innovative approaches of integrating heritage buildings into the community, through initiativees such as publicly accessible green roofs and internal courtyards.
Find on objective map
ACTION 2.1.3
ACTION 2.1.5
Require a 6-star green rating across all commercial buildings and a 5-star rating across all future residential building.
This action focusses on the administration of sustainable built form in the future. It draws largely on the United National Sustainable Development Goal 11 of creating “sustainable cities and communities”, as it focuses on eco-friendly design and built form. Green Star rating provide verification of both commercial and residential buildings design, and fit outs to highlight the sustainability standard of built infrastructure. Regulating such rating standards for future development with ensure that Northcote’s future is forged in a sustainable direction.
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Require all new buildings to use materials that minimise the urban heat island effect with a standard that at least 75 per cent of total project site areas should comprise of building or landscaping elements that increase the solar reflectance of the site.
PRECEDENT ECO- FRIENDLY SKYSCRAPER SYDNEY A recently constructed skyscaper in central park Sydney epitomizes use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials, for innovative and environmentally sensitive high scale development. This skyscraper includes a green façade coated in native ecology in order for the building harness the potential of green walls and green roofs have to reduce urban heat and create responsive, innovative and robust design.
ACTION 2.1.6
PROJECTE MIXED USE
Increase mixed use land allocation in strategic areas.
Mixed use development integrates different land use functions such as residential, commercial and office spaces. This action aims to vastly improve the mixed land use allocation across the suburb which is currently very poorly integrated with the cityscape. Mixed uses creates enhanced walkability, access, decreased car use and furthermore decreases carbon emissions. Mixed use within this action has been allocated with the commercial activity centre where pockets of mixed use have recently been established. Mixed use has also been allocated along St Georges Road replacing existing strips of industrial and residential land use. This will ensure increased accessibility to commercial areas for residents and hopes to alleviate existing stressors placed on access to the central activity centre. Industrial land across the suburb has also been redefined as mixed land use within this action. Smaller parcels along Victoria Road have also been rezoned as mixed yse to accommodate for increase mid-storey townhouse development within the region. Future mixed use will however be administered to respect the existing character of Northcote and incorporate a variety of architectural styles to create variety and robustness within the public realm. All built structures will also ensure sustainable built form standards as outlined within the previous actions.
CURRENT MIXED USE
ROOFTOP
RESIDENTIAL
RETAIL
OFFICE
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ACTION 2.2.1 Open Northcote Golf Course as a community space during allocated periods
ACTION 2.2
Prioritise a green suburb.
Northcote Golf Course is the largest open space area within the suburb of Northcote, and also has the highest recorded canopy cover and lowest urban heat rating. Thus, highlighting how attractive it is as a publicly accessible space. During the 2020 period of COVID 19 lockdown the golf course was open to the public while golfing was prohibited (The Age, 2020). This highlighted the demand for open space within the area. Currently 800m catchment also reiterate the need for more open space in the north western region of the suburb, as there is no accessible green space within an 800 m catchment for many of these residents. This action outlines that during off peak golf periods such as weekday afternoons the golf course will be open to the public. The park will also go through a trial phase of being open every 2 Sunday of each month, to record how many patrons use the area.
Find on objective map
Green space access and quality is a vital party is a vital element of establishing a resilient future for Northcote. Through enhancing existing public space while simultaneously estbalishonh ecological corrdior and tree covered streetscapes, Northcote can foster a resilient urban landscape.
Figure 41, Local residents using Northcote Golf pass as a park 2020
ACTION 2.2.2 Increase the quality of existing green open spaces by increasing canopy cover at parks across the suburb particularly
This action aims to increase the quality of green space throughout Northcote through increasing canopy cover across all publicly accessible open space. This aims to make public space more attractive to residents while also reducing urban heat, and improving air quality. The accompanying map highlights how canopy cover can be increased in areas such as McDonell Park. It is important however when implementing canopy cover increase, that landscaping considers elements of prospect and refuge, so that users of the park very exposed to surrounding areas to encourage feelings of safety. Find on objective map
McDonell Park Canopy Cover Increase Map
Figure 42, Canopy cover increase map
Figure 43, Visualisation of potentional vegetation increase McDonell Park
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Greenscape Increase Map
ACTION 2.2.3 Improve street level greening and canopy cover, connecting green spaces.
Increased canopy cover leads to improved air quality, enhances walkabillity decreases car speeds and minimized the effects of urban heat island effect. Thus, it is integral that canopy cover is enhanced across the suburb by 2050. This action outlines the integration of increased street level greening of both canopy cover and vegetation across all streets in Northcote. The streets of particular focus (see map right) aim to link green spaces and commercial strips through a pedestrian friendly, cool streetscape through the inclusion of trees. This action coincides with the City of Darebin goal (2020) , to “grow our urban forest by 7 600 trees to increase tree coverage on public land by 15%”. This action also mirrors the City of Melbourne’ s major Urban Forest strategy, seeking to manage city chapes against future heat vulnerability threats (2020). Find on objective map
PRECEDENT: GREEN CORRIDORS SOUTHBANK A key precedent for this strategic action is the implementation of the Southbank Urban Forest Precinct Plan in 2015 (City of Melbourne). The Plan aims to integrate South as an urban forest with will house “water sensitive design and innovative green corridor for pedestrians”. It aims to provide a immersive, sensory experience at a street level, which is an inspiring precedent for Northcote to create a walkable and ecological suburb.
ACTION 2.2.4 Restore and nurture the local natural environment through indigenous planting and land management practices developed in collaboration with Traditional Custodians.
This action aims to work in conjunction with the Merri Creek committee to continue to rejuvenate and accommodate for Australian native ecology across the suburb. Such initiatives will play a key role in the Mernda Line Upgrade, where ecological corridors are aimed to be developed underneath the path of the train line. Climate Resilient Northcote is committed to working with Traditional Custodian to achieve the most cultural sustainable ecological outcomes
CONTRIBUTES TO:
MERNDA LINE UPGRADE
Figure 44, Vegetation plaque showing native plants, Merri Woodland Garden
ACTION 2.2.5 Enhance use of green parcels as native, mid-storey ecological corridors, along St Georges road, The Mernda Train Line and Hurstbridge Line.
Vacant and underutilized land along St Georges Road, The Mernda Line and Hurstbridge train line will take on new form within the proposal of this action. This action hopes to enhance urban ecologicy while also create a cohesive link of green space that will join the east and west of Northcote. Transit routes highlight pre-establishing consistent linear strips within the suburb that have the capacity to house a significant amount of increased vegetation and canopy cover. The visualization on the right highlights how areas such as seated square outside Northcote Station can be revitalized through the integration of native plantings. This will improve urban ecologicy and support a climate resilient precinct. Find on objective map
PRECDENT: THE GREEN LINE TORONTO The Green Line Toronto is a ecological and park based projected conceived in 2019. It outlined the regeneration of approximately 5 kilometers of vacant green space to create a Green Line (City of Toronto, 2019). This Green Line is a proposed linear system in a hydro corridor, to create a ecological park strip and expand the broader network of open space access.
CURRENT Figure 45, Visualisation of potentional ecological corridor outcome in seating area on the eastern side of Northcote Station
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#03 CLIMATE READY
OBJECTIVE 3.1
Future proof Northcote to flooding.
WHAT IS CLIMATE READY? While greening the suburb looks at minimizing the risks of urban heat and sustainable use practices, climate ready looks at the unique challenge Northcote faces in terms of inundation and flooding. This is due to low lying land contours surrounding Merri Creek and across smaller portions of the suburb. Climate Ready aims to combat future risks of extreme weather events in these areas and combat issues flooding may pose to storm water run-off and managment.
Global trends highlight that population growth and economic development in flood prone areas threaten to exacerbate the rising global flood risk trends. Thus, flood risk and storm water management must be integrated into Northcote’s climate resilient future. it is integral that storm water and inundation risks are managed with a holistic approach across the suburb, thus these actions outline integrative complete strategies to create an adaptive and flood proof Northcote.
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#03 CLIMATE READY NORTHCOTE’S ADAPTATIONS TO FUTURE FLOOD RISK.
KEY INDUSTRIAL LAND SUBJECT TO CHANGE CATALYST PROJECT SITE RAIN WATER GARDEN DEVELOPMENT IN EROSION ZONE EROSION MANAGEMENT STRATEGY
ACTION 3.1.1 Redevelop drainage systems using rainwater gardens and urban design along key residential and commercial floodways to limit future risks.
This action ensures a holistic integration of storm water management across the suburb of Northcote. The action strongly coincides with existing actions presented by the City of Darebin Council Plan (2017) outlining an aim to “install rain gardens/ water sensitive urban devices to improve the condition of our waterways.� Rainwater gardens will improve ecology by reusing water. Rainwater garden installation across key streets (see map page 51) will minimise inundation of local streets and main roads such as High Street and Arthurton Road following extreme weather events. This action will also improve water quality that can be reused to support and maintain local ecology and park land, or be sent into Merri Creek free of storm water remnants.
Find on objective map
PRECEDENT: PHILADELPHIA INTEGRATED STORM WATER DESIGN This year the City of Philadelphia released a comprehensive storm water management plan which aimed to minimise the risk extreme weather effects had on water quality across the city (2020). A key goal within the pan was the installation of integrated stormwater design initiatives such as storm water gardens. This are aimed to be installed within major civil spaces and along key roads to limit storm water run-off and achieve a more sustainable balanced city.
CONTRIBUTES TO:
FLOODWAY RESILIENCE PROJECT
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ACTION 3.1.2
CATALYST PROJECT:
FLOODWAY RESILIENCE PROJECT
Transform industrial land adjacent to Croxton Primary school into a water sensitive green space sport facility.
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT BUILT FACING PARK TO INCREASE SAFETY
STEPPED RECREATIONAL SPACES, CREATES GRADUATED FLOODING LEVELS ROAD SET AT RAISED LEVEL TO STOP FLOODING OVER ROAD UNDERWATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM CONNECTING WATER TO STORM WATER DRAIN SYSTEMS NATIVE VEGETATION
BOULDERS CREATE PERMEABLE INTERFACE FOR WATER COLLECTION MERRI CREEK
RECREATIONAL SPACES WITH UNDERGROUND WATER COLLECTION SYSTEM
ROAD
This action focuses on a large-scale innovation project outlining the redevelopment of industrial land along Merri Creek currently subject to high inundation and flood risks. The action will create an integrative recreational space, that provides increased outdoor space for the community, particularly students at Croxton primary school. This stepped system will allow for flooding at specified intervals that can than be stored and removed of contaminants before going into Merri Creek. The space will also be integrated with newly design rain-water garden s across the precinct to minimise flood risks along High Street and Arthurton Road by redirecting storm water into this strategized catchment. The activation of green space in the area will also increase open space accessibility for the north western portion of the suburb. The main precedent of this project was flood resiliency projects in parks around New York, following the damage attributed to Hurricane Sandy (2018). These projects considered the replanning of park spaces to be resilient against future flood risks in these areas.
Find on objective map
Figure 46, Visualisation of future recreational space along Merri Creek.
PROPERTY
ACTION 3.1.3 Create a cohesive storm water management plan to facilitate the protection of Merri Creek and help mantain open space.
Northcote holds significant natural assets such a Merri Creek, which have been attentively revitalised in recent decades. This action aims to protect the rich water biodiveristy and natural ecology within Merri Creek through the design of strategic storm water management plan. This plan will integrate the proposed rainwater gardens and innovative floodway sports facility as storm water storage areas.. The plan will also attribute to the reuse of storm water to maintain open space and increased canopy cover throughout the suburb.
PRECEDENT ARDEN STRUCTURE PLAN A key precdent of this action is the approach taken within the Arden Structure Plan (2020) as it prioritises significant planning to storm water management processes through an integrative deisgn approach. This was achieved through administering storm water management standards within planned open space.
ACTION 3.1.4
Figure 47, Integrative strom water managment plan for the future of Northcote.
Establish strong erosion management strategies to protect existing mixed use and social housing within the erosion boundary.
Future developments such as Walker Street Housing Development and Meri Green are located within Northcote’s erosion zone. To ensure Northcote is climate resilient to future environment risks this action highlights a thorough revision of current erosion management strategies. The revised strategy should integrate the potential of mid and high density development to be located within Northcote’s erosion zone and how building recommendations and regulations can minimise risks erosion potentional has on built form. Find on objective map
ACTION 3.1.5 Require all new developments to meet the City of Melbourne’s waste management guidelines.
This action aims to ensure the minimsation of pollution and rubbish across the suburb. This is an integral response to waste management and is important in ensuring that future storm water run-off contaminants are minimised.
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#04 INCLUSIVE
OBJECTIVE 4.1
Create opportunities for community interaction.
WHAT IS INCLUSIVE? Creating an inclusive Northcote is an integral part of not only a happy, healthy and livable place, but also a community that holds a united front when targeting issues such as climate change. Thus, inclusivity will create a flow of effect to enhance Northcote’s climate resilience in the future. and reiterates the focus of creating a collective community across Northcote.
Place making and place attachment theory outlines that by fostering a community sense to place, residents are more inclined to hold integrity and be invested in the outcomes and prosperity of an area (Stevenson-Hinde, 1982). By fostering opportunities for community interaction, Northcote can facilitate a place based community where residents can harbour a sense of place and place attachment. This will enhance residents’ investment in the adaptability and prosperity of Northcote and thus, at a human level increase Northcote’s climate resilience.
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#04 INCLUSIVE NORTHCOTE’S FUTURE INTIATIVES FOR INCLUSIVITY.
KEY ENHANCED AGED CARE FACILITY SPACE FOCUS OF AFFODABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS COMMUNITY SPACE DEVELOPMENT AREAS FOR TRADITIONAL NAMING ALLOCATED VEGETABLE GARDEN AREAS
ACTION 4.1.1
ACTION 4.1.2
Revitalise the existing Northcote Townhall Civic Square as vibrant and attractive community spaces.
The existing Townhall square serves as a commemorative space for Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander art and traditional ceremony. Thus, rather than redevelopment this space and remove its cultural significance this action aims to bring new life into an area that is currently underutilised. This action strategies that community activities, markets and pop up activities can be integrated into the square to create a communal area for the community. This can also instil further sense of place for the community as it runs adjacent to Northcote Townhall, a defining landmark for the suburb. Find on objective map
Allocate nature strips as garden streets that allow opportunities for sustainable community gardens.
This action aims to encourage and enhance community attitudes toward vegetable garden and creative nature strips. This action offers revisions to existing nature strip guidelines in designated areas. Designated areas for such peramtres (see map page 58) have been selected as they highlight an existing attitude toward garden nature strips ad are focussed in residential areas off main roads. Figure 48 below highlights how these areas will no longer need to apply for a permit to build planter boxes on their nature strips. Revised standards also allow these specified areas to build planter boxes above 30cm in height and can cover 80% of their nature strip, following an application process and administration of a free written permit. Find on objective map
PRECEDENT BETTER BLOCK
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Better Block movement is an engaging place making foundation. Its main focus is creating community engagement projects that transform a chosen space , while also involving te community in the design process. Commonly these projects are pop-up based and stand for a short time period to breath new life into an area. Better Block most commonly works within Brunswick, highlighting the capacity for such initiatives to be adapted in the neighbouring suburb of Northcote
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Figure 48, Revised nature strip permit and regulation standards.
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ACTION 4.1.3 Re-establish the High Street and Separation Street intersection as a communal civic space at the heart of Northcote.
PRECEDENT KLYDE WARREN PARK , DALLAS TEXAS This project highlights how the a public square was revitalised through increased canipy cover, street design and attractive surface finishes to enhance the use and attractiveness of the previously concrete dominated public space.
R EE T HIGH ST
Setback of building in north- western corner of the intersection. Stones uses for public areas to allow for permeable street finishing, maximinsing cooling of the area.
A R T HUR
Increased greening and canopy cover outside of Northcote Plaza, to minimse existing dominance of ashpalt and concrete within the intersection.
Clearer street signage highlighting where bike lanes are. Raied pedestrian crossing to create speed bump effect for cars, thus diffusing car speeds at the intersection.
TON RO
AD
S EPER A TION ST
R EE T
Increased canopy cover along each street, creates passive traffic calming effect. Canopy cover also enhances street aesthetics, urban cooling and walkability.
R EE T
Find on objective map
Removal of slip lane to make way for open blic square space.
HIGH ST
This action aims to enhance community interaction and sense of place though the reconfiguration and redesign of the Separation Street, High Street intersection. This aims to create an attractive place for residents and visitor to ponder rather than pass through. This will be achieved through the removal of the slip lane in the north west corner of the intersection, and enforcement of future buildings setbacks to allow for a seated area and an attractive civic space. This will also be enforced by reducing car speeds through the implementation of traffic calming devices such as raised pedestrian crossings and increased canopy cover.
Street hierarchy reconfigured to prioritise pedestrians and cyclists and allow for disability access onto trams. (Same street hierarchy adopted at tram stops north of this intersection along High Street.)
ACTION 4.1.4 Repurpose existing large-scale carpark adjacent All Nations Park as communal civic spaces and opportunities for weekend markets and inclusive community activities
The All Nations Park car park is currently an underutilised, large land parcel within the suburb. Due to the high proportion of people that access both Aldi and Northcote Plaza shopping centre, the car park is exposed to a considerable about of people and foot traffic. Thus, the land parcel is projected to be a perfect host to future interactive activities and community markets for the area. Both Alphington and Coburg offer Sunday Farmers Market activities, and highlights how such activities could be adapted into the Northcote context.
Find on objective map
PRECEDENT POINT COOK REGENERATIVE PROJECT This project focuses on creating socio-ecological connection through placemaking in areas within Point Cook. One of the major projects was a 2020 pop-up park and an integrative activity space for community members to come together. The project invites temporary design initiatives such as a popup parks, cinemas and markets to revitalise or give new meaning to public spaces.
ACTION 4.2
Ensure the inclusion of social minorities. This objective considers that while Northcote is continually becoming gentrified and more attractive to working professionals, it is important to consider the disadvantaged in the formation of the precinct in the future. Social cohesion and inclusion of minorities is a key aspect or establishing a community’s resilience (Arup, 2014).
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ACTION 4.2.1
ACTION 4.2.2
Ensure a social housing uplift , which enables developers to exceed the defined Dwelling Density Ratios in exchange for the provision of a defined public housing.
Replenish green landscaping of St Josephs Aged Care facility to reduce urban heat rating and its effects on vulnerable residents.
This action considers that while Northcote is continually becoming gentrified and more attractive to working professionals, it is important to consider the disadvantaged in the formation of the precinct in the future. This can be ensured through a housing uplift program, where any building above 4 storeys must include 15-20 % social housing. This action coincides with smart growth initiatives (Addison et al, 2013) as outlined 2003 ‘Melbourne 2030—Planning for Sustainable Growth’ strategy, outlining the need to support affordable housing within future high density development (Beer et al, 2007).
This action targets the highest rated heat vulnerability area within the suburb, being the St Joseph’s aged care home. Through government funding the now gravel carpark will be replenished into a large- scale garden. Funding will go toward significant increases in vegetation and canopy cover within the designated land parcel and create an inclusive outdoor space for aged care residents and visitors. Find on objective map
Single storey housing
Mid-storey housing
20% Affordable housing
Figure 49. Find on objective map
PRECEDENT FISHERMANS BEND FRAMEWORK This is influenced by actions within the Fishermans Bend Framework (2019) outlines a social housing uplift program that “enables the developer to exceedas it the defined Dwelling Density Ratios in exchange for the provision of a defined public benefit.” This enable developed construct an additional eight dwellings for private sale for every social housing unit delivered and transferred to a registered housing association.
Figure 50, Visualistion of St Joseph’s Home enhanced green space.
ACTION 4.2.3 Continue to promote Indigenous, health, housing and community facilities within the suburb to emulate the importance of the indigenous community.
A valued part of Northcote’s community is its indigenous population and the high concentration of Indigenous health, wellbeing and cultural facilities within the suburb. This action outlines the protection of existing facilities within the suburb by ensuring such facilities are eligible for increased government funding on an annual basis, to protect these programs from increase density development and demands of gentrification.
ACTION 4.2.4 Create opportunities to embed Aboriginal language, design and names in streets, parks and public buildings in consultation with Traditional Custodians.
Batman park was recently renamed to Gumbri park to highlight Northcote’s consideration and respect to their indigenous community. This is an integral piece in the suburbs history and highlights there is always opportunity to integrate indigenous language, culture and ecology within future naming, design and urban planning. This action outlines that the council will make significant efforts to include Traditional Custodians in the shaping of the community through direct consultation. This can be encorporated to projects such as the Mernda Line Upgrade, where new sports spaces and parks will be created and need to be named and deisgned. Find on objective map
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HOW CAN THIS BE ACHIEVED
IMPLEMENTATION MONITORING & REVIEWING GOALS
IMPLEMENTATION Short term: 0 - 5 years
Mid term: 5 - 10 years
Long term: 10 - 15 years
Ongoing
#01 CONNECTED
#02 GREEN
PART 5
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#03 CLIMATE READY
#04 INCLUSIVE
PART 5
MONITORING AND REVIEWING
A vital element that maintains integrity of a structure plan is the monitoring and reviewing of objectives and outcomes. This is to ensure our vision of a Climate Resilient Northcote can be achieved. At 5-year intervals this plan will be reviewed, and amendments can be made in response to rising temperatures, population increase and evolution of specific trends within the precinct. Short term goals specifically will be reviewed to analyse whether the adaptability and prosperity of Northcote is being addressed and managed effectively. Four key goals have also been outlined that work simultaneously with the actions presented in this report. These goals highlight major steppingstones, projecting Northcote into a climate ready precinct within the next 5 years.
GOALS Increase canopy cover by 40 percent
30% of Northcote is solar powered
All new developments achieve a 5 green star rating
Increase cyclist paths by 15%
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CONCLUSIONS
SUMMARY REFERENCES
SUMMARY SUMMARY
Climate change and the changes it brings in weather and global temperatures, is an increasing challenge and risk to urban communities. The Northcote 2020 structure aims to pave the way for a climate resilient future, through analysising existing opportunities and threats that shape Northcote as a suburb today. Northcote holds expansive richness in its history, demographics and urban fabric and through instilling a strong focus on connectivity, inclusivity, green and climate resilient the precinct can adapt and flourish in the future.
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