The Victorian Government has been consulting with local communities about its Activity Centre Program, which affects multiple Boroondara suburbs. Its goal is to enable greater housing density to allow more people to live close to transport and services.
Council supports this aim but not the planning approach being taken by the government or the way it's consulted the community.
Here's what we know about the latest consultations.
Final consultation for Hawthorn and Kew
In October, the government closed its consultation about Activity Centres around Hawthorn, Glenferrie and Auburn train stations and Kew Junction.
During this consultation, Council planners hosted online Q&A sessions for people wanting to know more about the government's plans.
What we heard
Many of the questions and concerns we heard centred on:
- how infrastructure and services will keep up with a growing population
- heritage protection and building heights
- traffic and parking impacts
- protecting the tree canopy
- affordable housing.
Council gave its own feedback on this consultation, with a submission that reaffirmed our ongoing advocacy for:
- greater collaboration from the Department of Transport and Planning to achieve the best planning outcomes for Boroondara
- a place-based approach to planning - and new planning controls - that understands Boroondara's unique qualities and opportunities for growth and change.
Riversdale, Willison and Ashburton
In November the government also conducted a survey seeking input from people living around Riversdale, Willison and Ashburton train stations. This was the first of a 2-part consultation, asking what's important to people about these areas.
Council planners held an in-person information session and 2 online Q&A sessions for local community members - before the consultation closed on 30 November.
Next steps and staying informed
Details and timings for the next steps in the Victorian Government's Activity Centres Program haven't been released. We're continuing to advocate for better planning and keep you informed. For updates and to read our full submission to the government, visit our Victorian Government changes to planning page.
