The City of Stonnington has endorsed its ambitious and evidence-based Housing Strategy and Neighbourhood Activity Centre Framework (NAC) following extensive community engagement. Together, these innovative plans provide a clear roadmap to deliver the housing needed to support significant population growth in Stonnington, close to transport, shops and services, while supporting the unique character and vibrant, liveable communities that residents value.
These plans are built on a deep understanding of our local area. We heard that it is critically important to preserve Stonnington's distinct and beloved character including its architectural styles, while balancing growth close to infrastructure and facilities, and ensuring a diverse mix of housing types to cater to different demographics. Importantly, preserving open space and ensuring that the existing tree canopy and urban greening is prioritised is of crucial importance to our community.
Some of the changes made during consultation for the Housing Strategy increased height limits compared to the draft strategy, where submissions demonstrated a capacity for greater change. The NAC Framework employs an industry-leading Floor Area Ratio approach in activity centres to give flexibility to design and configuration of buildings and provides opportunities for a more context-driven response, increased urban greening and open space provision.
Importantly, this suite of plans developed by Stonnington accommodates growth of 67,000 dwellings, exceeding the Victorian Government's target for Stonnington of an extra 50,000 dwellings by 2051.
Stonnington Mayor Cr Melina Sehr said "The Housing Strategy and NAC Framework show that taking a nuanced approach that preserves what makes our city great does not limit housing supply – quite the opposite. We stand ready to shape the Stonnington of tomorrow, supporting a growing population who will benefit from our amazing infrastructure and amenity."
"We will continue advocating to the State government that the outcomes in the Housing Strategy and NAC Framework should be reflected in their 'train and tram activity centre' planning controls. We are keen to work together to support housing growth and share our detailed local knowledge from five years of thorough review."
Council thanks those who took the time to provide feedback to the consultation on these important plans. Strong support during the engagement process from neighbouring councils, experts, peak bodies and our community confirm the strength of this work and its importance to the future of our city.
