Citywide amendment – More Homes, Sooner – Low-medium density residential design

Changes are proposed to combine the existing Low-medium density residential (2 or 3 storey mix zone precinct) and the Low-medium density residential (Up to 3 storeys zone precinct) into a new Low-medium density residential (3 or 4 storey mix zone precinct) to simplify the structure of the zone and provide greater flexibility for residential development.

Residential development and built form outcomes within the proposed 3 or 4 storey mix zone precinct are proposed to be tailored to respond to a site’s proximity to centres and high-frequency public transport. Areas closer to centres and public transport stops/stations that have 20 minute or better service frequency on weekdays and 30 minute or better service frequency on weekends are considered Key Locations.

While a mix of housing types is supported within the zone, areas within Key Locations are proposed to support more apartments (multiple dwellings), and areas outside of Key Locations are proposed to support more small lot housing. 

Changes are proposed across various development codes in City Plan to refine the design requirements for small lot houses and duplexes (dual occupancies) within the Low-medium density residential zone.

The proposed amendment generally seeks to support these forms of residential development outside Key Locations and with the following built form outcomes:

• building height up to 3 storeys and 11.5m
• a minimum lot size of 120m² where meeting design and built form criteria (assessed during subdivision stage)
• a minimum lot size of 400m² for dual occupancies where meeting design and built form criteria
• a total site cover of 55% for lots under 180m² to ensure sufficient space for backyards
• a maximum impervious area (area where water cannot infiltrate the ground) of 70% to provide space for landscaping, manage stormwater and reduce urban heat island effects
• adequate space for street trees and on street parking through allowance for narrower driveway crossovers
• adjustments to setbacks, including built to boundary walls, to improve flexibility and allow for terrace style housing outcomes.

Changes are proposed for multiple dwellings (apartments and townhouses), to allow for increased building heights up to 4 storeys and 14m where within Key Locations and on a minimum lot size of 800m².

This building height is also proposed to apply for retirement facilities and residential care facilities within the Low-medium density residential zone, which are already able to build up to 3 storeys in some circumstances.

Currently, properties in Low density residential zoned areas can be subdivided into 300m² lots if they’re located within 200m walking distance of a shopping centre. This is proposed to be expanded to allow properties within 300m walking distance of a shopping centre to be subdivided to 300m².