Independent experts challenge developer’s claim that apartments won’t overshadow Princes Park

CLAIMS that a $250 million, 14-storey apartment project will not overshadow Princes Park have been challenged by independent analysis.

CLAIMS that a $250 million 14-storey apartments project will not overshadow Princes Park have been challenged by independent analysis.

A diagram prepared by ­design practice Urban Initiatives showed that at the winter solstice, the northern edge of park, including part of the running track, would be in shade from the JWLand development called 699 Park St.

It has also emerged that the developer has signalled it would take the plans to VCAT ­regardless of any decision of Moreland councillors, who will consider it this month.

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The proposal is for five apartment blocks on inner north land comprising a cleared industrial site and the Best Western Princes Park Motor Inn, which continues to operate.

Artist's impression of shadowing by 699 Park St development over Princes Park during the winter solstice. Image: Urban Initiatives

The application has ­attracted more than 220 objections, including from Yarra and Melbourne City councils.

Residents are concerned about overdevelopment, and the Environment Protection Authority has issued a clean-up notice after high ­levels of toxic chemicals were detected.

Artist's impression of a planned 14-storey apartment complex at 699 Park St, Brunswick, by developer JWLand. Pic: Supplied

The planned complex, known as 699 Park St, would include 280 apartments, 377 parking spaces, shops and a childcare centre.

At 45m high, the project is double the area’s height-controls limit.

The City of Melbourne’s main concern is the overshadowing of Princes Park, which is within its boundary.

Aerial view of the proposed 699 Park St apartment redevelopment next to Princes Park. Picture: Supplied

Artist's impression of a planned 14-storey apartment complex at 699 Park St, Brunswick, by developer JWLand. Picture: Supplied

JWLand has stated in its application that shadowing would not cast shade over the park at the equinox.

But the Urban Initiatives study, based on the winter solstice, showed otherwise at Royal Parade.

Artist's drawing of the five apartment blocks proposed for Park St, Brunswick. Picture: Architectus/JWLand

In a statement, JWLand said its plans complied with council policy on shadowing.

“JWLand is committed to working with the (Moreland) council on its application for 699 Park St and has lodged an appeal with VCAT after the defined time frame for a decision expired,’’ the statement said.

A spokeswoman for Planning Minister Richard Wynne said the councils needed to work together to deliver the best outcome for locals.

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