WYNDHAM Council has rejected five applications for multi-unit developments, saying none was in keeping with the character of their neighbourhoods.
Councillors refused the applications at their last meeting on October 22.
The applications were for developments in Werribee’s Tyrone Street and Veronica Court, Forest Place in Tarneit and Spring Drive and Bernhardt Avenue in Hoppers Crossing. Each was supported by council officers.
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Forty-three residents opposed the Tyrone Street development, which would have included six double-storey houses on two blocks of land. Councillors cited inconsistency with neighbourhood character, inadequate parking and the inability of developers to provide residents with safe access as reasons for refusal.
Cr Shane Bourke said the development would affect the lifestyle of residents already living in the street.
Cr Bob Fairclough also cited concerns about the impact on existing residents when rejecting the application for six double-storey houses in Spring Drive. The application was opposed by 69 residents.
The Bernhardt Avenue application, for two single-storey houses on a block of land, was also rejected because of concerns about noise. The application for two single-storey units in Forest Place was rejected because councillors felt there was not enough parking for residents.
Cr Bourke said councillors always found planning applications difficult and made time to visit each site before making their decisions.
He said the lifestyle of existing residents should not be affected by multi-unit developments.
“People should be able to go into their backyard without getting hit in the eye by a double-storey unit development.
“We have to be careful not to take their choice away.”
Developers have 60 days to appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
