Another developer has plans to build over Melbourne train line

ANOTHER developer has announced plans to build over a train line in Melbourne’s inner south, just weeks after a similar application was rejected.

The development proposed at 24 Chapel St in Windsor will go over the train tracks to utilise rail corridor space.

ANOTHER developer has announced plans to build over the train line, this time at 24 Chapel St, Windsor.

The news follows a planning application for a 10-­storey building over tracks at 121-123 Commercial Rd, South Yarra, which was rejected by Stonnington Council last month.

An artist’s impression of the building.

For Chapel St, SMA Projects and its partner VicTrack have proposed a mixed-use 20-storey building over the railway tracks next to Windsor train station.

A press release by SMA Projects said the project “pioneers” a new type of building design that would unlock “under-utilised airspace” above rail corridors.

But State Opposition planning spokesman David Davis said 24 Chapel St had “all the hallmarks of overdevelopment” and questioned what cut the State Government would get from the project.

“What is happening here is the Andrews Government is seeking to claw back some benefit for itself by striking deals with developers. Certainly this is their attempt to scoop back as much money as possible to pay for their level-crossing removals,” Mr Davis said.

VicTrack is a state-owned enterprise that owns the state’s transport land, assets and infrastructure.

SMA Projects development manager Robert Murphy said the project would address Melbourne’s future housing needs and its location near public transport made it suitable for higher-density development.

“We are working closely with highly specialised engineering teams and Melbourne’s rail authorities to ensure the design meets all requirements where it is interfacing with the rail corridor,” he said.

The development will be considered by the Stonnington council.

Stonnington Council chief executive Warren Roberts said the council would consider the appropriateness of a development when deciding on a planning application.

Planning Minister Richard Wynne said the Government “won’t be taking lectures from David Davis” regarding the project.

“The removal of Victoria’s most dangerous and congested level crossings is fully funded through the long-term lease of the Port of Melbourne,” Mr Wynne said.

SMA Projects is seeking public feedback on its proposal. To learn more visit 24chapelstreet.com.au