Zoe Moffatt
Residents have spoken out against a planning permit for the three lot subdivision in Gisborne, questioning what the Macedon Ranges council’s intention is for the area.
The application seeks to remove two native trees and subdivide the land into 1851, 1171 and 1027 metres squared lot sizes at 35 Cherry Lane, Gisborne.
Five objections were received, with some of the concerns regarding the lot sizes, impact on neighbourhood character, increased noise and traffic and lack of consideration for strategic context.
Speaking at a council planning meeting on November 9, a submitter questioned whether allowing this application to subdivide would open the door for other applications to subdivide.
“If this were given approval, why would this then not allow all previous subdivisions in the precinct to resubmit further applications to subdivide again,” they said.
“If you’ve gone into two, can you go and split the two again?
“Unless that’s council’s intention for the area which is a yes or no question I’d really like to propose given the more recent planning developments for Gisborne.”
The submitter said the approval of the application would really demonstrate a significant lack of consistency from the council.
“In council’s own words, developers don’t get to lead the discussion on what’s suitable for Macedon Ranges, and not particularly here.
“My position is council’s first duty is to protect the environments of its inhabitants, not specifically the flora and fauna, but… its existing residents.”
The council was unable to respond to the concerns, with it to be addressed at a later council meeting.
A submitter, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said the proposal is appropriate for the area and a minor increase in traffic is not expected to impact the road network.
“The proposal will fit with the existing character and respect for existing character does not demand replication,” they said.
“Three lots are proposed ranging from 1000 to 1800 roughly square metres, respecting the subdivision pattern yet providing lot diversity [and] there are minimal vegetation impacts.”
The submitter said three trees are earmarked for removal for a driveway and tree protection plans are provided for the remaining 12 trees.
Council officers will prepare recommendations based on relevant information and submissions, for consideration and determination at a council meeting on December 6.
