WHITTLESEA: 25 new homes for Lalor
A new 25-lot residential subdivision in Lalor will deliver new local homes and increase the safety of the Whittlesea Public Gardens, according to Whittlesea Council.
Councillors approved a planning permit application for the subdivision of a former road reserve along the eastern edge of the gardens for 25 residential lots.
The new residential street of new homes will deliver a key component of the Whittlesea Public Gardens Master Plan that was endorsed by Council in 2018.
“During consultation with the community on the Whittlesea Gardens Master Plan, the lack of visibility into the gardens was identified as a safety issue and barrier to community use,” said a Council representative.
“The residential subdivision will improve perceptions of public safety by increasing passive surveillance from the homes, drivers and pedestrians.
“A new 15-metre-wide local street, connecting Barry Rd and Benaroon Drive, will be constructed to provide access to the homes. The new street will have a landscape treatment, including street trees, to provide an attractive frontage to the gardens.
“Sopme 39 indented car parking bays along the road’s western side will provide additional parking options for residents.
“Nearby residents provided valuable feedback throughout the permit process and the design guidelines for the development and permit conditions will ensure the amenity of the existing neighbourhood is maintained and an attractive interface to the gardens is delivered.
“Since adopting the Whittlesea Public Gardens Master Plan in 2018, the space has undergone a significant transformation to make it a more desirable place for families to spend time.
“This includes a new playground, learn-to-ride circuit, upgraded picnic and barbecue facilities, street-style skate park, climbing wall, half-court basketball courts and more.
“Improvements to the gardens are continuing, with a soon-to-open off-leash dog park, and plans for a new car park, walking and cycling paths and water features underway.”
Pictured: Cr Martin Taylor, City of Whittlesea Mayor