Press Release from Shadow Minister David Davis

Melbourne’s east and south in the gun for Daniel Andrews’ forced densification

Communities in Melbourne’s east and south should be afraid – very afraid – of the “densification” outlined in Daniel Andrews’ Infrastructure Victoria Draft 30 Year Infrastructure Strategy. The “rebalancing” outlined to achieve densification and the re-direction of growth will chill those in the south and east.
The reports says “this rebalancing is unlikely to occur without intervention”. This draconian approach is consistent with Planning Minister Richard Wynne’s statements when he foreshadowed in February “big changes to planning rules” when the State of Play reports were released.
It is also consistent with Labor’s plan to review Neighbourhood Residential Zone protections that protect the amenity, vegetation and heritage in those municipalities with NRZs.

Victoria’s Draft 30 Year Infrastructure Strategy October 2016 states (on page 41): “Land use planning decisions should factor in the capacity of existing infrastructure. For example, greater densification of housing in established areas that are already well serviced with infrastructure is more efficient than providing new infrastructure in new areas.”
Recommendation 1.1 states: “Increase the proportion of housing in areas that are well serviced with infrastructure.”
The report targets the “established areas of Melbourne’s east and south” as areas to “further intensify housing” (page 55).

Quotes attributable to the Shadow Minister for Planning, David Davis MP:
Melbourne’s liveability is dependent on protecting key strengths and amenity.

The Andrews Labor Government’s plan to force intense development on the eastern and southern suburbs will be a disaster for liveability. Council elections active this week are an opportunity for these communities to ask council candidates about their views.

My advice to those in the south and the east is to take every opportunity to reject Daniel Andrews’ forced overdevelopment. Communities have not been consulted, the Plan Melbourne refresh is late and is clearly intended to act as a battering ram for unwanted forced development and densification.