By YASEMIN TALAT
THE INTRODUCTION of a Design and Development Overlay is planned for Keilor Village to sustain and respect the area’s character and history.
Brimbank City Council last week proposed the introduction of the Design and Development Overlay, which will require an amendment to the Brimbank Planning Scheme.
The proposed planning control would include: restricting building heights to two or three storeys, depending on the site’s location; introducing design guidelines for new developments, and specific design guidelines for shop fronts, signage and alterations to the public realm; and specific requirements for applications to demonstrate how new developments within the centre meet the objectives of overlay.
“By introducing this overlay to the activity centre, council will help realise the objectives of the Keilor Village Vision Document that was adopted in 2012 following extensive community consultation,” Chair of Brimbank Administrators John Watson said.
“The Keilor Village Vision Document provides guidance for potential future development and land use within the Keilor Village Town Centre,” he said.
“The document reflects the aspirations of local residents and their desire for an attractive and sustainable community which provides a broad range of retail opportunities and services, while enhancing its distinctive natural, historic and semi-rural character,” he said.
Mr Watson said an amendment to the Brimbank Planning Scheme would result as an introduction of the overlay and would also include changes to the Vision Document to clearly identify the relevant precincts and controls and correct some minor anomalies.
“This amendment is another positive step forward in helping to preserve Keilor’s unique and much-loved character and history that is revered by locals and visitors alike,” he said.
Amendment C162 will include an exhibition process and the opportunity to lodge submissions about the amendment.
Mr Watson said an information session was planned and relevant stakeholders involved in the development of the Vision Document would be notified.
