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?

 Source: Planning Glossary by the City of Port Phillip

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