Proposal

Hindmarsh has engaged Purdon Planning to lead the rezoning of Section 66 Deakin to allow multi-unit residential development on the subject site. The rezoning process will require a variation to the Territory Plan, ACT’s key planning document.

Section 66 is currently zoned a Transport Services Zone (TSZ2), which is an uncommon industrial zone within the ACT. The Territory Plan Variation (TPV) would look to change this zone to a Mixed-Use Zone (CZ5), in order for the land to be repurposed to house a multi-unit residential development. Development of Blocks 7 and 8 is likely to accommodate a max of 200 units. Development of the entire site may yield between 400 and 500 units.

This project is at an early stage, we are seeking views from the community to inform the project. Key issues raised will inform an integral part of a planning report and design of the proposal.

Locality Map

Site

Section 66 is adjacent to Deakin’s boundary with Hughes and with Kent Street passing along the western frontage. The site borders the Red Hill Nature Reserve on its northern and eastern boundaries and lies opposite Alfred Deakin High School and the Deakin Offices.

Blocks 7, 8 and 13 are currently undeveloped. Blocks 2 and 6 to the north east of the subject area contain a Telstra Office facility and the Deakin Department of Defence building respectively. The total subject site area is 25,412m².

The site is conveniently located between Hughes and Deakin and is in close walking distance to a variety of amenities such as local shopping centres, recreation facilities, and various health services.

Proximity to Local Amenities

Studies Completed to Date

During the process of varying the Territory Plan, in-depth studies must be completed on social, environmental and economic impacts and benefits of the zone change. The following studies have been conducted and will be discussed at public consultation sessions (see below). Study findings include:

• Ecological: Vegetation onsite consists of mainly exotic grasses and non-indigenous native plantings. Section 57 block immediately to the south of the site is zoned as an urban open space. This area would not be impacted by the proposed development. Given the current highly modified state of the site, overall the study suggests the project should not impact on the ecology of the subject site. Ecology Report
• Noise: The study identified the potential noise from the Telstra establishment, however with suitable mitigation the risk is expected to be manageable. Overall the study did not identify any particular acoustic design risks associated with using the site for the proposed intention.
• Light: The Study provided various recommendations for light designs to ensure security and area lighting is maintained while light spill does not impact on residents and the Nature Reserve.
• Contamination: Overall the report suggests that the site will be suitable for the proposed end use with minimal remediation and management, if required. Contamination Report
• Traffic: A Traffic Impact and Parking Report has been completed in relation to the proposed TPV. The traffic report was a priority document to ensure correct analysis of the area was captured to highlight acceptable impacts to traffic conditions. An Intersection Traffic Model was developed to analyse the impacts of the proposed traffic generation. Traffic counts were also completed for the AM (8:15 to 9:15) and PM (16:45 to 17:45) Peak times. The report indicated that the proposed development would have minimal impact on the existing traffic network and results suggest intersection upgrades would not be required. Traffic Report
• Heritage: Overall the Heritage Site assessment reported that no heritage sites (Aboriginal or European) or areas of archaeological potential were identified in the study area so there are no statutory implications. Heritage Report
• Bushfire Report can be viewed HERE

Proposed Land Zoning

Proposed Development

If the rezoning process is successful, Hindmarsh plans to develop a multi-unit residential development on the site.

The development would be distinctive, modern and high-quality build, drawing its character from the adjacent Red Hill Nature Reserve and oriented away from the adjacent Defence building to ensure the focus is on an attractive internal environment taking advantage of the expansive views.

The Defence and Telstra sites are included in the proposal, and may be redeveloped in the future for further residential or commercial commensurate with the Deakin business district.

Overall the development design intent aims to be a well considered and visually pleasing addition to the overall character of the area. Architectural plans have not been drafted at this early stage. We hope that input from the community will inform the proposed design.

Community Feedback

The project team has held various Community Engagement sessions in relation to this proposal.

These sessions have provided the opportunity for community members to talk to the project team and provide individual and valuable insight.

The posters from these sessions can be viewed HERE