A LAPSED height control on properties over 7.5m has been temporarily reinstated.
The Minister for Planning has temporarily reinstated the municipal wide 7.5 metre height control on residential developments which had threatened to take away the consultation rights of neighbouring residents.
Following a written request from the City of Greater Geelong the control, which had been in place as an interim measure and expired on 30 June 2011, has been extended until 31 December 2012.
The height control allows community members to be involved in the planning process for residential properties that exceed 7.5 metres in height.
Mayor Cr John Mitchell said he was pleased that the matter had been resolved.
“It’s a control that’s been in place for more than 20 years and has been widely accepted by the community. We believe it’s a fair control that provides an appropriate level of public participation in the decision making process.”
“The next step will be a public review to determine if the community believes it should become a permanent control.”
The City of Greater Geelong issues an average of 1522 planning permits per year with on average 56 of the permits being required because of the 7.5 metre height control.
The lapse in the rule was particularly felt by residents in Highivew Court. Objectors were told on the eve of their council hearing opposing a 9m development that there was no longer a restriction on the height.
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