Highton townhouse plan returns

DEVELOPERS have returned with plans to convert a large Highton property into a townhouse project.

Plans lodged with the City of Greater Geelong would build 19 new homes at 2 Morven Court, Highton.

The block is a 9,361sqm site just off South Valley and south of Highton Reserve that currently has one house at its north-western corner.

Residences would range from three to five bedrooms in single and double-storey buildings across the site.

Proponents say the proposal meets Geelong’s objective for infill development in existing suburbs with access to services.

“The proposal represents a significant urban infill opportunity, given the Site’s unique size, location and proximity to established services,” planning documents stated.

“The subdivision and development of the Site facilitated by this application will contribute towards meeting the density and sustainability targets within the City of Greater Geelong, whilst also providing a respectful response to established residential interfaces.”

The $10-million plan would also include extension of Morven Court to service the new homes and removal of native vegetation.

The planning proposal aims to remove most existing trees from the well-vegetated site, except for protected areas at the far edges of the property.

The proposal is scaled back from an earlier plan for 27 townhouses that drew objections in 2021.

COGG had refused to grant a permit earlier that year but proponents took the plan to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

The proposal had drawn 108 objections during exhibition and prompted a community petition in opposition and a crowdfunding campaign for a legal challenge.

Opponents had objected to the clearing of trees at the site and feared it could set a precedent for more dense development in Highton and surrounding suburbs.

The property last sold for $3 million in December 2019, ahead of the planning process.