Apartment building planned for Highton block

A HIGHTON house would be bulldozed to make way for a three-storey, 10-apartment building on Barrabool Road under a present planning proposal.

Developers have submitted their $3.5-million plan for the site near Barwon River and Highton Village, and say the proposal would provide affordable housing options in the sought-after suburb.

The project would include a basement level car park with 20 spaces and storage space, ground and first floor each with four apartments (three three-bedroom and one two-bedroom) and the top floor with wo larger three-bedroom properties.

Proponents also argue that the site’s proximity to activity centres and similar medium-density developments receiving approval in recent years supported their case.

“The objective for this proposal has been to respond to a need in the community by providing quality affordable dwellings in this area of Highton,” planning documents stated.

“The apartments will create opportunities for residents to live in this area by pricing them within reach of many residents who otherwise could not afford to live in the area.”

Objectors to the proposal in its early stages have complained that it is an “overdevelopment” in an area and say it will negatively impact neighbourhood character due to traffic increases and loss of vegetation.

The City of Greater Geelong is advertising plans until April 5.