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View an example of the Neighbourhood and Site Description

In Town Planning, a Neighbourhood and Site Description refers to a specific and significant report not usually required with a VicSmart application.

The Neighbourhood and Site Description must:

    • include details of properties within a 50 metres radius of the subject site (this includes sites next to, behind and opposite the subject site);
    • note the opportunities and constraints of the subject site; and
    • meet the requirements of Clause 54 or Clause 55 (depending on the number of dwellings proposed).

The Neighbourhood Description for Residential Development must include:

    • pattern of development;
    • built form, scale, character and architectural style of surrounding development;
    • roof styles;
    • front and side setbacks;
    • front fencing;
    • garden character; and
    • location of local shops, public transport services and public open space within walking distance (only applicable to applications for two or more dwellings on a lot).

The Site Description must include:

    • Shape and size of site.
    • Boundaries of the site which match those shown on Certificate of Title.
    • Orientation of the site.
    • A north point.
    • Levels of the site and the difference in levels between the site and surrounding properties: Does the site slope represent any design challenges (eg. overall height of the proposal)?
    • Location of easement/s (if relevant). If you are seeking to build over an easement you will need to obtain consent from the relevant authority.
    • Street frontage features:
      • poles (power poles, street signs, parking signs, bus stop signs);
      • street trees; and
      • kerb crossovers.
    • Location and use of existing buildings on the site and on surrounding properties, including the location and height of walls built to the boundary of the site: What implications will this have on your design?
    • Location of private open space: What implications will this have on your design? Please note: Private open space is defined by the Port Phillip Planning Scheme as an outdoor area of a dwelling or residential building or land for the exclusive use of the occupants.
    • Location of habitable room windows of surrounding properties within 9m of the site: What implication does their location have for your design?
    • Solar access to the site and to surrounding properties: How does the sun move across the site? Do neighbouring buildings overshadow the site? How can your design respond to maintain solar access to living areas and private open spaces?
    • Location and height of walls built to the boundary of the site: Are there any overshadowing or bulk implications?
    • Details and location of all existing established trees on the site: What implications will this have on your design? Will the trees be retained or removed?
      • Species, trunk width at 1.5m from NGL, trunk location and approximate canopy width.
    • Details of any established trees removed from the site in the last 12 months prior to the application being made (where known).
    • Any contaminated soils and filled areas (where known): Is an Environmental Audit required?

Creative Commons License Source: Planning Glossary by the City of Port Phillip

View an example site context and neighbourhood description from City of Greater Geelong