Plans unveiled for up to 400 new homes on vacant Knoxfield site on Burwood Highway

A PRIME 19ha piece of land in Knoxfield could be transformed with up to 400 houses, and commercial buildings up to 40m tall. Locals are worried about the environmental impact, but the plan could deliver a big windfall for the State Government.

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A MASSIVE development of residential and commercial buildings is being proposed for a vacant Knoxfield site, which would deliver a big windfall for the State Government.

The 19ha block at 609-621 Burwood Highway is owned by the Government and has been fast-tracked to be rezoned.

It was previously used as a horticultural research centre but was deemed surplus to requirements.

Ferntree Gully's Mark Glazebrook and daughter Taya are worried about the future of a lake on vacant land on Burwood Highway, Knoxfield, which could be under threat from development. Picture: Kylie Else

Development Victoria, the government body that wants to develop the site, said the vacant land could include between 300 and 400 dwellings, with houses and apartment blocks up to 12m high.

The front section facing Burwood Highway would feature a strip of commercial buildings up to 40m high.

Details of the plan were discussed at a public meeting that attracted a crowd of about 30 people last Tuesday.

The 19ha site at 609-621 Burwood Highway that the State Government wants to develop with houses and commercial buildings.

Michael Collie, a consultant acting for Development Victoria, said the proposal would fit with the vision of Knox Council’s Knox Central plan.

Mr Collie said the proposal was based on their own studies into stormwater and traffic impact, which looked at “the best way the land could be developed”.

He said the government body would act as the developer and submit a planning permit application.

All profits collected from the sales would go to treasury.

The plan will be put to a public hearing in March and is expected to attract opposition from groups, including Knox Environment Society and Friends of Lake Knox Sanctuary, who are concerned about the impact on vegetation and wildlife.

People can make submissions until February 23.

Details: planning.vic.gov.au/ftgls