Plan released for Altona North mini-suburb with 3000 homes

A FORMER industrial site in Melbourne’s inner west will be turned into a mini suburb with 3000 homes and the promise of 1000 jobs.

An artist’s impression of the planned mini-suburb in Altona North.

A FORMER industrial site in Melbourne’s inner west will be turned into a mini suburb with 3000 homes and the promise of 1000 jobs.

A state government plan for the Altona North precinct says it will feature tree-lined streets and laneways, as well as a town centre with shops, offices and open space.

Located between the West Gate Freeway and Blackshaws Rd, the 67ha site is currently zoned industrial, but most of the businesses have left the area, including Don Smallgoods.

Planning Minister Richard Wynne said the development would include at least 5 per cent affordable housing, and bus services to Newport and Spotswood train stations.

“This bold transformation of a former industrial site will offer families a great community just a short commute to the CBD,” he said.

“We’re getting the planning right for a growing Victoria, to ensure new residents have the roads, public transport, parks and essential services that they deserve.”

An artist’s impression of the planned mini-suburb in Altona North.

Around 330,000 people will be added to the western suburbs over the next 15 years amid continuing high immigration rates and cheaper housing on the city fringe.

Developers of the Altona North precinct will have to pitch in more than $50 million for infrastructure like road upgrades, cycle paths and sports and community facilities.

The Victorian Planning Authority has prepared the development plan in conjunction with Hobsons Bay council.

Williamstown MLA Wade Noonan said that once complete, “this will mean hundreds more local jobs — closer to home”.

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