By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Residents in a Berwick estate fear that a proposed rezoning will lead to “slum dwellings” spoiling their quiet, leafy streets.
Casey Council is proposing to allow apartments of up to four storeys in some parts of Timbarra Estate under its proposed planning amendment C198.
As a result, the estate’s serenity – notable for its large property setbacks, cul-de-sacs and predominantly single-storey homes – could be destroyed, residents say.
A shocked resident Declan Foley moved into the area 20 years ago because of its ambience.
He says the area had been unspoiled since then, and been a popular settlement for young families and retirees.
The area’s narrow roads and cul-de-sacs couldn’t cope with extra traffic, the taller, bulkier buildings were out of character and the area was at greater risk of stormwater floods, he said.
Mr Foley is leading a 48-signature petition by residents to oppose the rezoning.
He warned ward councillors Tim Jackson and Susan Serey in an emailed letter that “I am sure you do not wish to go down in history as the council responsible for the creation of slum dwellings in a family-friendly and elderly-friendly urban area.”
According to the Amendment C198 explanatory notes, Casey is targeting several residential areas near activity centres and railway stations.
Mr Foley says the estate was out of walking range of the closest railway stations and major activity centres in Narre Warren, Fountain Gate and Berwick.
Under the change, Allardice Parade and Lyrebird Gardens would be rezoned as Residential Growth Zone, paving the way for four-storey developments.
Neighbouring streets such as Samuel Close and Dylan Court would be rezoned as General Residential Zone 2.
This allows for a more dense mix of three-storey apartments and townhouses.
Casey councillor Tim Jackson said the amendment was part of a strategy for more housing diversity.
“The area was selected for increased urban development as properties in that location are generally within 400 metres of Parkhill Plaza Activity Centre.”
Cr Jackson said the estate’s present zoning allowed for houses up to three storeys “although this is probably not well known”.
“As always residential development needs to reflect the neighbourhood character objectives of the area.”
He said the Amendment C198 residential densities would be developed over 20 years or more. It would give Casey and the State Government time to respond to parking and traffic capacity issues, he said.
Casey Council is accepting late submissions on Amendment C198 until 31 January.
