Take two for townhouse project

DEVELOPERS have returned to plans to build a Latrobe Terrace townhouse complex in a bid to boost housing supply near the city’s centre.

Rage Developments would build 13 triple-storey, two-bedroom homes at 232 Latrobe Terrace, Geelong West under the $6-million plans being advertised by the City of Greater Geelong.

The presently empty block has dual frontage to McNicol Street to the west and is opposite The Gordon TAFE site on the main thoroughfare.

Developers have tweaked plans public consultation and council reviews after the proposal was publicly advertised mid-last year.

Changes include removing one dwelling from the site from the original plan of 14, and increased setback from Latrobe Terrace from 3.9 metres to 9.2 metres, and increased garden areas to comply with the city’s residential requirements.

The plans also have a reduced building height to limit overshadowing to neighbouring properties.

Planners say the proposal “will positively contribute to the character and built form of this area whilst also being considerate of the site’s residential interfaces and the broader public realm”.

Documents also state the location at the edge of the Central Geelong Activity Centre and about 200 metres away form its main railway station made it ideal to cater for the medium-density development.

“The design response contributes towards the positive evolution of the Latrobe Terrace ‘rail corridor’, providing diversity in housing choice and lifestyle for future residents who will be able to readily take advantage of the locational attributes in a site responsive and architecturally designed building.”

The city is advertising the plans for public comment until January 19.