Council to consider plan for giant Thomastown apartment complex
Just when Thomastown residents thought their central hub at High St would be free of construction works, a new controversial development plan has surfaced. And the architects have been able to get away without notifying the public.
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Two six-storey apartment buildings next to Thomastown station could be the suburb’s largest residential complex if granted a planning permit by Whittlesea Council.
The 20.5m tall buildings would house 76 apartments and six retail premises at 240-258 High St.
The $14 million development would also be divided by communal open space at ground level, with 94 basement car spots and 86 bicycle spaces.
The land’s use does not require the council’s approval as it is in a commercial zone.
However, the development itself must still be ticked off by the council.
Cr Caz Monteleone said the building threatened to “change the landscape of Thomastown” and set a precedent for future developments in the area.
“It is a gross overdevelopment,” he said.
“It is out of place in that location — traffic will significantly increase and it’s just going to be a giant wall of apartments which is not a very exciting look for Thomastown.”
A petrol station used to occupy the 2260sq m site, which runs along the Mernda railway line.
The Environment Protection Authority has deemed the area suitable for development.
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Cr Monteleone said zoning regulations for the site meant the proposal was exempt from public notification, denying the community an opportunity to object.
Hachem architects were also exempt from seeking the council’s approval to use the land.
The planning permit for the building will be considered at the next council meeting on December 10.
Whittlesea Council’s acting director of partnerships, planning and engagement Julian Edwards said the decision would be based on “relevant policies and guidelines” in the Whittlesea Planning Scheme.
The council did not reveal who owned the land.
Hachem was contacted for comment.