By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Greater Dandenong Council will seek a ‘please explain’ after the State Government rejected its request to increase the minimum size of backyards in Keysborough’s new townhouses.
Under planning scheme Amendment C212, the council sought to rezone the area bounded by Chandler Road, Dandenong Bypass, Tatterson Park, Hutton Road and Greenview Terrace.
It would increase the minimum area of private open space for townhouses from 40 square-metres to 50 per lot, with secluded private open space up from 25 to 30.
Though much of the area is already developed, it’s not too late for the remaining land and for future redevelopment at existing sites, Greater Dandenong councillor Matthew Kirwan said.
It may also influence any future rezoning of the nearby Keysborough Golf Club for housing.
“The issue is private open space for intimate family gatherings.
“Despite the fact that this a family area and the townhouses that are getting built are three and four-bedroom townhouses as a result, they are being built (because of the zoning) with less private open space than equivalent parts of Noble Park and Dandenong.
“That is the lunacy of the situation.”
Somerfield Estate resident Pablo Rodriguez said the last thing residents want is “more of the same” for future developments.
He pointed to the density of townhouses – some with ludicrously short driveways that can’t fit a small car.
These are just examples of developer greed, Mr Rodriguez said.
“The main issue is the overall density and the lack of appropriate car spots.”
As a result, traffic gridlock in the narrow streets, with cars parked on both sides, is a daily bug-bear.
Keysborough CFA has also warned that its trucks are struggling to squeeze through the estate’s roads.
It could be alleviated by widening roadways within the expansive adjoining nature strips, Mr Rodriguez said.
Planning Minister Richard Wynne told the council in March there was a lack of studies, reports and “strategic justification” to make an informed decision.
He was also concerned about existing owners’ ability to extend their buildings.
“The council is encouraged to conduct further strategic work on these proposed changes to ensure they deliver the best outcomes for all landowners in the area.
“Any future requests for a zoning change will be considered on its merits and will be subject to a thorough assessment when received.”
Cr Kirwan, with the support of a majority of councillors on 8 April, successfully moved for the council to write to Mr Wynne for what “strategic justification” is required.
