Feedback pushes council to vote for urban open space

AN URBAN park or town square – after community feedback – has been added to the development plan for a precinct on the north-west corner of Heatherton and Hallam North roads, Endeavour Hills.
The revised Heatherton Road Mixed Use Precinct development plan – which allows for apartments, offices and retail at the site – was approved by Casey councillors on Tuesday 15 September.
As part of the changes, maximum 16-metre height limits will also be subject to deeper setbacks to reduce overshadowing its neighbours.
Currently the site is partly developed with a petrol station, medical centres, retail, child care centre and aged care facility as well as a large tract of open space.
It is closely neighboured by more than 600 residents – 18 of whom objected to the development plan.
Many of the objections focused on already-heavy traffic congestion and lack of public transport.
The council’s traffic solution is to continue advocating for an upgrade to the intersection and for a bus link to the site.
VicRoads, in its submission to the council, stated that land was set aside for a two-lane roundabout or a signalised intersection, but no funding had been committed to the project.
Four Oaks Ward councillor Rafal Kaplon said the community was largely satisfied with the development plan, with all revisions based on community feedback and submissions.
He said the urban park or town square was the most significant change, which could allow for people to relax at a possible cafe and retail-commercial space.
“The result of these changes will benefit Endeavour Hills, Lysterfield South and Narre Warren North residents who will benefit from the generation of local jobs and services that will be created.”
Fellow ward councillor Rosalie Crestani said the development would help diversify housing in the area, offering one and two-bedroom dwellings.
A tavern has been ruled out of the plan, the two councillors said.
– CAM LUCADOU-WELLS