Three units approved

By Lachlan Ellis

A three-unit development in Clarinda Street, Bacchus Marsh has been approved by Council, with a speaker representing the applicant stressing the process the application had been through.

Four objections were submitted against the meetings, with a consultation meeting taking place on 25 July 2022.

Town planner Hamish Balzan spoke on behalf of the applicant at the 21 September Development Assessment Committee, stating the application had addressed concerns such as street parking that were raised by objectors.

“It would be amiss for me not to touch on the extensive process that occurred for this application, which is for three single-storey, two-bedroom dwellings. This process included pre-application correspondence, a meeting with Council once the application had been lodged, and a consultation meeting with the objectors. This was undertaken to ensure what is before you today reflects an outcome which is in accordance with Council’s Planning Scheme, as well as mitigating potential off-site impacts,” Mr Balzan said.

“There is significant policy support for this application within Council’s strategic documents, including the Bacchus Marsh Housing Strategy 2014. With regards to car parking, which has been mentioned by all objectors, there will be no loss of on-street car parking availability.”

Cr Moira Berry mentioned a tree located along the fence line, and asked if the applicant would be willing to keep it.

“Our intention is to remove that, but we’d be more than happy to provide a suitable alternative as part of an updated plan,” Mr Balzan replied.

The recommendation to approve the development was moved by Cr Paul Tatchell and seconded by Cr David Edwards.

It was supported by Crs Ally Munari and Tom Sullivan, but opposed by Crs Berry and Tonia Dudzik.

Cr Rod Ward was an apology at the meeting, and so the motion passed 4 to 2.