Upper Gully Strategic Plan

Upper Gully Plan Volume 1: Part 1 Upper Gully Strategic Plan

JANUARY 2017

‘A bright future for Upper Gully’ Plan GullyUpper Strategic

Quality Assurance Report Card Project Name R005 - Upper Gully Plan - Strategic Plan - Rev 08.1 - Adopted Document Number R005:0 Revision 8 .1 Prepared By City Futures Reviewed By City Futures Approved By Knox City Council Date of Issue 23 January 2017

www.tract.net.au

Developed in collaboration with the City Futures Department of Knox City Council.

2 Map Maxi Foods 06. Highway /Burwood Map 05. Movement and Access Improvement Opportunities Map Context 04. Map Map 03. Upper Gully (Study Area) Map 02. Centre Activity Map 01. Aerial Plan Maps Map 07. Rollings Belgrave /Old Roads Map 10. Preferred Setbacks and Design Outcomes Map 09. Public Space and Street Improvement Opportunities Map Public 08. Space Open and Street 19.Map 100-Year Flood ARI Depths (Melbourne Water) - Map 18. Railway Station &Visitors Information Centre Map 17. Preferred Land Use Outcomes Map 16. View Point 6Key Plan Map 15. View Point 5Key Plan Map 14. View Point 4Key Plan Map 13. View Point 3Key Plan Map 12. View Point 2Key Plan Map 11. View Point 1Key Plan Entrance Improvements Entrance Improvement Opportunities Opportunities Improvement for Built Form Opportunities Improvement Activity Centre Activity Opportunities Improvement

48 40 54 36 38 58 50 49 45 35 32 52 47 51 61 15 13 12 6 Figure Dawson 06. Street /Ferny Creek Trail - Figure 05. Dawson Street /Ferny Creek Trail - Figure Implementing 04. the Vision Figure 03. Strategic Plan Stages Figure 02. Strategic Plan Structure Figure 01. Components of the Upper Gully Plan Figures Figure 07. Intersection of Hilltop Rd and Highway Burwood Figure Intersection 08. of Hilltop Rd and Highway Burwood Figure 10. Dawson Street Enhancement - Opportunity Figure 09. Dawson Street Enhancement - Opportunity Figure 15. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Figure 14. Floor to ceiling height analysis Figure 13. Indicative Built Form Sections Figure 12. Rose Street Shared Space - Opportunity Figure 11. Rose Street Shared Space - Opportunity Figure 18. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Figure 17. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Figure 16. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Figure 19. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Figure 20. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Proposed Improvements Proposed Conditions Existing looking east –Existing Conditions looking east –Proposed Improvements Proposed Improvements Proposed Conditions Existing Burwood Highway Burwood /Dawson Street View South-West Improvements Proposed Conditions Existing Dawson Street /Mount View Road View North-West Highway Burwood /Rose Street View South Highway Burwood /Dawson Street View South-East Burwood Highway Burwood looking south west Burwood Highway Burwood looking south east

46 46 48 34 34 50 49 39 39 33 33 27 52 47 51 41 41 9 8 7 Table 1 Tables Table 2 – – The Strategic Objectives Built Form Guidelines 66 29 3 Part 2 Part 1 CONTENTS Plan GullyUpper Strategic 1. Contents 1. INTRODUCTION 6 1.1 Introduction 6 1.2 The Upper Gully Plan 7 1.3 The Strategic Plan 7 1.4 How to read this Strategic Plan 8 1.5 Developing the Strategic Plan 9 1.6 The Activity Centre 12 1.7 Upper Gully (the Study Area) 12 2. SETTING THE SCENE 14 2.1 Introducing Upper Gully 14 2.2 Knox Policy Framework 18 2.3 Engagement 22 2.4 Opportunities and Challenges 24 3. Vision and strategic objectives 26 3.1 The Vision for the Activity Centre 26 3.2 Implementing the Vision 27 3.3 Strategic Objectives 28 4. THE STRATEGIC RESPONSE 30 5. BUILT FORM GUIDELINES 64 5.1 Overview 64 5.2 Built Form Guidelines 66 6. IMPLEMENTATION 74 6.1 Overview 74 6.2 Next Steps 75 6.3 Management, Monitoring & Review 75 4 6.4 Planning Scheme Implementation Approach 75 Map Maxi Foods 06. Highway /Burwood Map 05. Movement and Access Improvement Opportunities Map Context 04. Map Map 03. Upper Gully (Study Area) Map 02. Centre Activity Map 01. Aerial Plan Maps Map 07. Rollings Belgrave /Old Roads Map 10. Preferred Setbacks and Design Outcomes Map 09. Public Space and Street Improvement Opportunities Map Public 08. Space Open and Street 19.Map 100-Year Flood ARI Depths (Melbourne Water) - Map 18. Railway Station &Visitors Information Centre Map 17. Preferred Land Use Outcomes Map 16. View Point 6Key Plan Map 15. View Point 5Key Plan Map 14. View Point 4Key Plan Map 13. View Point 3Key Plan Map 12. View Point 2Key Plan Map 11. View Point 1Key Plan Entrance Improvements Entrance Improvement Opportunities Opportunities Improvement for Built Form Opportunities Improvement Activity Centre Activity Opportunities Improvement

46 46 48 34 34 50 49 39 39 33 33 27 52 47 51 41 41 9 8 7 Table 1 Tables Table 2 – – The Strategic Objectives Built Form Guidelines 66 29 5 Part 2 Part 1 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction Another focus of the Strategic Plan is protecting the Existing planning controls in Upper Gully limit landscape setting of the Activity Centre, which is highly development and reinforce a relatively low density The Upper Gully Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan) sets the valued by the community. The surrounding Dandenong residential development in order to protect the existing framework for the future development and improvements Ranges are visible throughout the Activity Centre forming foothills character and vegetation cover. As a result, Plan GullyUpper Strategic to Upper Gully (refer Map 01), including recommendations a strong visual backdrop. The built form guidelines, opportunities for change and housing diversity within for built form controls for the Upper Ferntree Gully including building height recommendations complement Upper Gully are generally limited to the Activity Centre. Neighbourhood Activity Centre (Activity Centre). It also the strong connection to the surrounding foothills. The Strategic Plan supports housing opportunities across outlines Knox City Council’s commitment to support the the Activity Centre to provide additional housing choices opportunities and stimulate future investment, partnership close to shops and services. and advocacy on private and State owned land in Upper Gully (Study Area). AERIAL PLAN The Strategic Plan is guided by a vision that aims to support the development of a vibrant and well serviced Activity Centre, capturing the opportunities for business and growth, while responding to Upper Gully’s unique foothills setting and its relationship with the Dandenong Ranges. Upper Gully’s location at the Gateway to the Dandenong Ranges presents significant tourism opportunities, which are identified through the Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan supports hospitality and entertainment uses to complement and build on existing facilities and visitor attractions such as the Dandenong Ranges National Park, the 1,000 Steps, the 1812 Theatre, The Gully Market and the Visitors Information Centre. The Strategic Plan also builds on Upper Gully’s existing strengths including the visitor attractions, health services industry, the local retail offer and the proximity of the Upper Gully Railway Station. The Activity Centre includes the retail and commercial centre of some 15.7ha in Upper Gully. The Activity Centre is defined by the Design and Development Overlay - Schedule 10 (DDO10) boundary included in the Knox Planning Scheme and is referred to as the Activity Centre throughout the Strategic Plan. A key influence on the Activity Centre is the surrounding catchment, which comprises predominately residential uses and commercial uses along Burwood Highway and open space areas. This surrounding catchment, as illustrated on Map 01, is generally referred to as Upper Gully. NOT TO SCALE 6

Map 01. Aerial Plan Figure 01. Components Plan of the Upper Gully Plan, whichincludes twoelements: key for are Upper Gully articulated through the Upper Gully The planning for future development and improvements 1.2 for localservices residents and visitors alike. to improveopportunities and publicspace amenity andartistic cultural influences, and capitalise onthe for the Centre Activity that buildsonitsfoothills setting, throughout aimto Upper Gully create astrong brand The proposed streetscape and publicspace improvements surrounding the Upper Ferntree Railway Gully Station. Highway,along Burwood the rail corridor, and the land andservices places. areThese offered opportunities Water and Planning (DELWP) to improve publicassets, VicTrack, andVicRoads ofEnvironment, Department Land, Government landholders agency including inUpper Gully to and developing withmajorState partnerships offered to Council Knoxopportunities City inadvocating Importantly, the Strategic Plan capitalises onthe ■ ■ ■ ■ (STRATEGIC) PLAN the Activity Centre. Centre. Activity the streetscape improvements to the public realm within Design Project physicalThe focuses on Streetscape and priorities; stakeholder and community research, investment in Upper Gully based on technical in the Centre Activity and Knox Council’s City strategic managing for framework a futuresets development The Upper Gully Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan) STRATEGIC PLAN

UPPER GULLY The Upper Gully Plan UPPER GULLY PLAN DESIGN PROJECT STREETSCAPE STREETSCAPE of 7.5m centres inthe of activity The Basin, Upper Ferntree (DDO10), applyingamandatory maximumbuildingheight interim and Design Development Overlay Schedule 10 Planning Scheme on20November 2014, introduced an Foothills. Amendment C130incorporated into the Knox controls for the Centre Activity withinthe Dandenong to concerns raised regarding the lack planning ofspecific The Strategic Plan hasalso developed been inresponse achieve the plan’s vision(refer 3). section identified that Council and the can community to take To assistinimplementing the Strategic Plan, steps are More specifically, the Strategic Plan aimsto: aspirations and priorities. future change and deliver real outcomes against issues and and opportunities develops ideasto influence in decisionmaking. considers the It current conditions, facilitate future change and inUpper Gully assistCouncil isastrategicIt planning tool to manage, influence and andon community aspirations stakeholder and priorities. future growth and development based ofUpper Gully The Strategic Plan outlinesthe preferred visionfor the 1.3 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ and ongoing improvements Gully; Upper for to activate and provide the certainty needed for future providersservice including state government agencies developing with partnerships major landholders and Provide aframework for guiding Council business and engagement. research by significant informed Be stakeholder and and level; of the Knox Vision and Knox Plan City 2013-17 at alocal Deliver the objectives and strategies, outlined as part controls; improvements and development, including planning Provide certainty for Upper Gully by guiding future individuality; and setting location, Gully’s Upper including those for business and tourism, presented by Direct investment to capture the unique opportunities

The Strategic Plan VicRoads, VicTrack) State Government Agencies ( Traders / Operators Business / Residents / Landowners Knox City Council Knox City including: The Strategic Plan usedby willbe arange ofstakeholders, ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ 1.3.1 Practice Note 58: Planning Structure for Centres. Activity The Strategic Plan complies withthe aimsofDELWP’s height controls. development including permanent buildingdesignand planning work for the Centre Activity neededto inform Council withthe timeneededto complete detailed 2017.until 30October The interim DDO10provided Amendment C146extended the interim heigh controls andGully Alchester forVillage aperiod of18months. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ state government assets. owned For guiding the management and improvements to Gully. the future development and improvement Upper of toFor opportunities actively participate identifying in developments private on land; and For guiding future improvements or and/ projects as outlined by the Strategic Plan. For advocating and seeking funding for studies and and Gully; Upper within For identifying future programs and services required Gully; Upper for projects For and prioritising identifying future capital works permit applications in the Centre; Activity which will guide Council’s assessment of planning For informing changes to the Planning Knox Scheme,

Who will use the Strategic Plan e.g. DELWP, Parks Victoria, 7 Part 2 Part 1 1.4 How to read this Strategic Plan THE STRATEGIC PLAN The Strategic Plan consists of two parts:

■■ Part 1 - Strategic Plan – Provides a shared vision PART 1: STRATEGIC PLAN PART 2: IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Plan GullyUpper Strategic for Upper Gully (informed by Council and the local community) and outlines a strategic approach to 1. INTRODUCTION managing future development and investment to 1. INTRODUCTION Provides the framework for the implementation achieve this vision. Introduction to the Strategic Plan and its purpose of actions contained in the Strategic Plan. ■■ Part 2 - Implementation Plan – Provides the framework for implementing actions and measuring the success of strategies, including recommended changes to the Knox Planning Scheme. 2. SETTING THE SCENE 2. PRIORITY PROJECTS AND STAGING Figure 02 outlines the structure of the two parts of the Provides an overview of the project process, strategic Strategic Plan. influences and drivers of change

3. VISION AND STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES 3. MANAGEMENT, MONITORING AND Sets out a vision and strategic objectives to guide REVIEW future development and investment

4.THE STRATEGIC RESPONSE Provides a framework for managing Upper Gully’s 4. IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM future development and investment to achieve the vision

5. BUILT FORM GUIDELINES Sets the planning policy framework required for the Planning Scheme Amendment for the Activity Centre

6. IMPLEMENTATION Provides the framework for the Implementation Plan.

8 Figure 02. Strategic Plan Structure Figure 03. Strategic Plan Stages Figure 03. occurred across ofproject anumber phases, asoutlinedin testing and development ofideasand scenarios. This has analysis, and community engagement and stakeholder the The Strategic Plan developed hasbeen through significant 1.5 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Knox Vision Developing the Strategic Plan STAGE 4A BACKGROUND RESEARCH (STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES) & TECHNICAL REPORTS & TECHNICAL THE STRATEGIC PLAN IDEAS &DIRECTIONS SET THE VISION TEST SET THE DEVELOPMENT) (INVESTMENT & STAGE 1 STAGE 3 STAGE 2 PLANNING SCHEME PLANNING (ACTIVITY CENTRE) (ACTIVITY AMENDMENT

STAGE 4B COMMUNITY & KEY STAKEHOLDER INPUT STAKEHOLDER KEY & COMMUNITY 1.5.1 Plan and the Consolidated include: Background Report The Technical prepared the Reports Strategic to support engagement. Reports), and the findings and ofcommunity stakeholder by theundertaken consultant team (including Technical provides ofresearch asummary and investigations couldGully planned be into the future. The report and for how Upper identifies ofopportunities anumber Strategic Plan, background outlinesimportant information The the Consolidated supports Background Report engagement.stakeholder research, and technical reports and community future aspirations for through Upper Gully background This stagefocused onunderstanding the current state and Technical Reports and Consolidated - Background Report 1 Stage ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Strategic Plan. cultural built form features for consideration in the 2015. This outlines report the significant social and ‘Heritage Assessment Report, Upper Ferntree Gully’ development Centre. in the Activity considerations, which and use land influence assessment of the relevant economic and property 2014 ‘ review of sustainable transport options. occupancy survey results and traffic and provides a and ‘Technical Report -Transport and Parking’, 2015 January Technical Report -Land Use and Economics

Understanding the Site & Future Aspirations Future Site & the Aspirations Understanding ‘Addendum 2017’. ‘Addendum 2017’ . This provides report atechnical This outlines report parking ’, November ’, November , June subsequent Planning Scheme Amendments. the Implementation Plan, Form Built and Guidelines Upper Gully. This stageinformed the development of for future investment, and partnership for advocacy and to Council’s guideKnox City actions commitment to inform the vision, strategic objectives, strategies andreports engagement outcomes were also utilised to inform itscontent. The background research, technical refining the visionand strategic directions objectives/key Developing the Strategic draft Plan involved testing and Implementation Plan Stage Strategic Plan 3&Stage & 4-Draft 1.5.3 could planned be and improved into the future. ofinitialnumber thoughts and ideasfor how Upper Gully Preliminary strategies were developed to provide a the Centre. Activity andcommunity guidance for the planning and designof provided aplatform for discussionswiththe further and1 ofcommunity engagement. stakeholder This andBackground Report feedback provided from Stage andobjectives strategies, buildingonthe Consolidated This stageinvolved developing vision, adraft strategic Visioning and Agenda Setting - 2 Stage 1.5.2

Development and Delivery Developing the Vision &Strategic Objectives 9 Part 2 Part 1 Plan GullyUpper Strategic

10 November 2016. An independent Panel Hearing was held on15, 17and 18 public exhibition. combined total of460submissions were received during received, which were referred to the Planning Panel. A 2016.12 September 116submissionswere Afurther asubmissionorreviseto make original submissionsuntil Amendment C141. Council also provided the opportunity independent Planning Panel to consider submissionsto and requested the for Minister Planning appoint an Council revised the Heights Building and Map Setbacks 2016andOn 28June considering after submissions, during publicexhibition. to 29March 2016. Council received 344submissions weretechnical publiclyexhibited reports from 8February Plan 2015)and (December background supporting and Strategic Plan 2015), (December Implementation draft Amendment C141to the Knox Planning Scheme, draft 1.5.4

Public Exhibition & Planning Panel Process Panel Planning & Exhibition Public 11 Part 2 Part 1 1.6 The Activity Centre The Activity Centre includes the retail and commercial centre of Upper Ferntree Gully. The Activity Centre

Plan GullyUpper Strategic boundary is defined by the existing Design and Development Overlay - Schedule 10 (DDO10) boundary included in the Knox Planning Scheme. While the Strategic Plan focuses on the Activity Centre, influences outside the Activity Centre, including the needs for catchment area it services, were also considered in order to provide a holistic and integrated plan for the future. These influences are detailed in Section 2.

1.7 Upper Gully (the Study Area) A key influence on the Activity Centre is the surrounding catchment, which comprises predominately residential, commercial and public uses along Burwood Highway and open space areas. This surrounding catchment is referred ACTIVITY CENTRE to as Upper Gully in the Strategic Plan (refer Map 03). The DANDENONG RANGES NATIONAL technical investigations used to develop the Strategic Plan PARK

considered influences, such as the services available and RAILWAY AVE

needs of residents in Upper Gully. RAILWAY

STATION

CFA

NB. Upper Ferntree Gully is used to reference the suburb and

generally where available source data is suburb based for example WILLOW RD BURWOOD HIGHWAY ABS suburb profile data. KINDER

ROYAL HOTEL

FERNTREE PLAZA SHOPPING

CENTRE ROSE ST

DAWSON ST ROLLINGS RD

ALFRED ST

12 WILLIAM ST Map 02. Activity Centre Map 03.Map (Study Upper Gully Area) UPPER GULLY (STUDY AREA) UPPER GULLY (STUDY AREA) ACTIVITY CENTRE ACTIVITY NTS 13 Part 2 Part 1 2. SETTING THE SCENE

2.1 Introducing Upper Gully

2.1.1 The Setting 2.1.3 Public Transport

Plan GullyUpper Strategic Upper Gully is located at the foothills of the Dandenong The Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station (Railway Station) Ranges. It has a distinct visual character that is defined is located on the Belgrave line. The journey between by its relationship with the surrounding treed landscape. Melbourne and Upper Ferntree Gully generally takes Views to the surrounding hills, low density green and leafy between 45 - 65 minutes. The frequency of services, residential neighbourhoods are important and highly parking and accessibility makes the Railway Station an valued by the local community. important commuter station for locals. As a ‘premium Upper Gully is physically divided by Burwood Highway, station’, the Railway Station is staffed from the first a major transport corridor that provides access between train to the last, has a customer service centre (where Melbourne and the eastern suburbs. It also provides a passengers can buy tickets, and pick up timetables), and gateway for visitors to the Dandenong Ranges and the has passenger facilities such as indoor waiting areas nearby Kokoda Memorial Trail (also known as the 1,000 and toilets. As a result, the Railway Station is utilised by Steps) and Upper Gully’s function as a gateway is further commuters from surrounding areas. reinforced by the presence of the Dandenong Ranges A bus interchange is also located at the Railway Station Visitors Information Centre, located on Burwood Highway catering for three bus routes. These routes operate both (refer Map 04 overleaf). along Burwood Highway, as well as local roads including Mix of retail, commercial and highway related uses are Dawson Street, Albert Street, Talaskia Road and Rollings provided along Burwood Highway 2.1.2 Walking and Cycling Road, to service facilities such as Angliss Hospital and The Activity Centre, generally, has good walking facilities Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School. in place with wide footpaths along shop frontages. Pedestrian connections into surrounding residential areas 2.1.4 Vehicle Access and Parking are provided however, steep topography in some areas Analysis for the Activity Centre identified a number makes walking difficult. Burwood Highway and railway of locations where traffic could be better managed to line creates a pedestrian and cycling barrier particularly improve motorist and pedestrian safety and improve for residents north of the Activity Centre. traffic flow. Such locations included the intersection of Bike routes are provided through off-road trails along Burwood Highway and Rollings Road and the vehicle the railway line, Ferny Creek and parts of the Burwood entrance into Ferntree Plaza from Burwood Highway. Highway. The Ringwood to Belgrave Rail Trail is an The shopping areas of Upper Gully are generally well important regional cycle connection however, there is a catered for with car parking. However, parking occupancy missing link across the Burwood Highway. A continuous issues exist at the Railway Station car park and in connection between the Activity Centre and station is not residential streets close to the activity centre and near the provided. Angliss Hospital where commuters and employees take There are opportunities to enhance walking and cycling advantage of the unrestricted parking. facilities, not only in the Activity Centre, but also along Management of visitor parking around the 1,000 Steps key streets and trails that lead to the shops and railway 14 has also been identified as an issue with overflow parking station. along Mount Dandenong Tourist Road creating safety issues for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. Ferny Creek Trail provides an open space link to major open spaces within and surrounding Upper Gully Map 04. Context 04. Map Map CONTEXT MAP UPPER GULLY (STUDY AREA) ACTIVITY CENTRE ACTIVITY Phillip Port Bay NOT TONOT SCALE KNOX OF CITY 15 Part 2 Part 1 2.1.5 Land uses Coonara House located in Kings Park is a neighbourhood The 1812 Theatre Company is recognised as one of house and provides a range of learning and community Melbourne’s longest running amateur theatre companies The Activity Centre is relatively compact, and focused services to the local community. Other community and provides an important role in developing arts and along Burwood Highway and Dawson Street. It includes facilities are generally located around Talaskia Road and culture within the municipality. There are opportunities Plan GullyUpper Strategic a mix of retail, commercial and highway related uses and Kings Park. to strengthen the role of the Theatre to increase local is anchored by Ferntree Plaza and Maxi Foods, a full line participation and social interaction, and to enhance it as Housing is currently provided outside of the Activity supermarket. The Activity Centre provides a number of an attraction for visitors. functions including local convenience retail, community Centre in the form of detached dwellings on large and health services, and a tourism function for visitors lots. Existing planning controls applied to surrounding There is also strong history of art and artists in Upper travelling to the nearby Dandenong Ranges. residential areas limit opportunities for additional housing Gully associated with the Dandenong Ranges. However, outside of the Activity Centre. public art and references to Upper Gully’s artistic history The Angliss Hospital located on Talaskia Road (outside is limited in the Activity Centre. Opportunities exist to The Activity Centre provides opportunities for different the Activity Centre) provides a key focus for health incorporate exciting and relevant public art into future types of housing such as apartments or shoptop housing services within Upper Gully and to a large area of the projects across the Activity Centre. eastern metropolitan region. It is supported by a range which would enable people to age in place and benefit of allied health and community services located around from proximity to shops, public transport and services. At Wally Tew Reserve is a key location for arts and culture the hospital and within the Activity Centre. These provide present, housing is not provided in the Activity Centre. located approximately 1.6km from the Activity Centre. employment opportunities for Upper Gully, with much It includes a number of cultural facilities including the of the current local workforce employed in the health 2.1.6 Tourism Library, Placemakers Shed and Woodworkers Shed. The industry. Placemakers Shed and Woodworkers Shed provide a Upper Gully is located at the Gateway to the Dandenong studio and workshop for creative people within Upper Ranges and is the last centre people pass through before Gully. As well as the library, a number of arts and culture heading into the Ranges. The Activity Centre is bordered events are held at the reserve, including Knox Festival. by the Dandenong Ranges National Park to the north and is the location for the Dandenong Ranges Visitors The Gully’s Mens Shed is located in the Rangers House Information Centre. It is only 800m from the major at the base of the 1,000 Steps in the Dandenong Ranges tourist attraction of the 1,000 Steps, which is growing National Park. significantly in its popularity. There are significant opportunities to strengthen Upper Gully’s tourism role as part of the arrival experience into the Dandenong Ranges. This could be through additional tourism land uses that build on existing tourist attractions such as The Gully Market which operates on Saturday and Sunday, the 1812 Theatre, and existing restaurants and cafés. Opportunities also exist to enhance Upper Gully’s streets and public spaces to enhance its brand and attractiveness as a centre.

2.1.7 Arts and Culture Upper Gully has an active arts and culture community 16 with the 1812 Theatre providing a local focal point. The Angliss Public Hospital and supporting health uses The 1812 Theatre, located on Rose Street areas and ofUpper Gully the Dandenong Ranges. trees onlots)provide astrong linkbetween the urban (streets and parks) and private realm (surrounding canopy Gully’s character and identity. Trees withinthe both public The natural landscape isasignificant contributor to Upper spacesopen available inthe Centre. Activity facilities.community There isalack ofsignificant civic the Centre, Activity aswell Park asbetween Kings and space open key linkbetween Wally Tew and Reserve in nearby Ferntree Gully. Ferny Creek Trail provides a facilities are provided at Wally Tew Reserve, located and provide visual relief and ‘greening’. Social and cultural the and location for ofsporting anumber social groups Talaskia and Reserve Park. Quarry These spaces provide The majorparks includePark, inUpper Gully Kings 2.1.8 vegetation ParkQuarry provides the location for State Significant

Open Space and Landscape and Space Open position with bold rectangular withbold position and onthe styling curved The InformationVisitors Centre islocated onan elevated Deco façadein1935.Art Overlay. was builtin1889and It then remodelled withan CentreActivity that iscurrently protected by the Heritage The Royal Hotel isthe historical key buildinglocated inthe 2.1.10 buildings are setback from the street uses. withlessactive Dawson Street, asthe scale and form ofbuildings increase, and clearly definedpedestrian entries. To the west of groundactive uses, floor transparent frontages, awnings elements suchasacontinuous builtedgeto the street, and designofbuildingelements, butalso through buildings provide visual interest through the detailing contributors to the positive street experience. These Highway, to the eastofDawson Street, are major Narrow shopfronts (finegrain builtform) along Burwood residential and generally detached dwellings onlarge lots. catchment ofthe Centre Activity ispredominantly CentreActivity over aperiod oftime. The surrounding built form styles, the reflecting incremental growth ofthe recently buildingsand modified the occasional older parapets. include Styles amixofrecent (approx. 1980’s), Centre isgenerally undefined withsimpledetailingand The and style character ofbuildingsacross the Activity Highway. sideofBurwood northern building located diagonally opposite the hotel, onthe Information Centre, another Deco style two storey Art building. The Royal Hotel iscomplemented by the Visitors storeys, itisequivalent inheight to three amodern storey Centre.Activity Although the Royal Hotel isonlytwo 12.5m, itthe whichmakes tallest buildingwithinthe notable isthe Royal Hotel, at aheight ofapproximately views across to the surrounding treed foothills. Most building providing subtlevariation and inthe skyline low scale singlestorey withthe occasional two storey withintheBuildings Centre Activity are predominately 2.1.9

Built Form Built Heritage (Context 2015). Ferntree Centre Activity Gully Report HeritageAssessments to the Consolidated and Background Report the Upper For information further onthe heritage assessment refer incorporated ofthe aspart Planning Scheme Amendment. recommendations of the assessment have been Centre ofthisproject. aspart was undertaken The An independent heritage assessment for the Activity also alocally significant historical building. was designedby the notablearchitect and KeithReid is warpost St style modernist Thomas Anglican Church. It Adjoining the Centre Activity at 12Mount isthe Road View complement their historical significance. and reinforces nearby development to designedto be There to are enhance opportunities these valued buildings and asimportant community valued historical buildings. along withthe 1812 Theatre and were identified by the link to the area’s early development. These buildings provide visual landmarks inthe Centre Activity and a in1889.opened The heritage and buildings olderstyle of architectural, historic and social significance. first It The Upper Ferntree Railway Gully Station buildingis Deco architecture. two principal façades, isanother excellent example ofArt Gully The Royal Hotel isaland mark buildinginUpper Ferntree 17 Part 2 Part 1 2.2 Knox Policy Framework Knox Housing Strategy 2015 The Knox Housing Strategy 2015 (the Housing Strategy) This section provides a summary of key planning policies, aims to balance the changing housing needs of current documents and strategies that have influenced the and future residents while ensuring that important Plan GullyUpper Strategic development of the Strategic Plan. aspects of Knox are retained and enhanced. The major trends which the Housing Strategy responds to include: 2.2.1 Key Plans and Strategies ■■ An aging population;

Knox Vision and City Plan ■■ Growing lone person households;

The Knox Vision provides a shared vision for the future ■■ Growing couple only households; and of Knox that will deliver the lifestyle, jobs and industry, ■■ Small drop in households with children. health and wellbeing desired by members of the Knox community. The Vision is outlined under five themes, The environmental quality and significance of the each containing a description of the ideal future, and Dandenong Ranges is also reflected in the Housing 2013-17Knox Vision 2013-17 1 identifying the features that will be in place when that Strategy. future is achieved: Knox Vision document The Housing Strategy utilises a scaled approach to housing development, setting out the preferred types ■ Democratic and Engaged Communities ■ of housing in four different areas. The surrounding ■■ Healthy, Connected Communities residential areas of Upper Gully are considered part of the

■■ Prosperous, Advancing Economy Bush Suburban category i.e. areas which have significant biological and landscape values. ■■ Vibrant and Sustainable Built and Natural Environments The Housing Strategy indicates that the surrounding residential area will continue to be low-scale ■ Culturally Rich and Active Communities ■ neighbourhoods, characterised mostly by detached These themes are used as indicators to monitor the houses, where significant indigenous and native community’s wellbeing and achievement toward the vegetation is retained and complemented. It also broader Vision for Knox. indicates that the preferred housing types in this area is The Knox City Plan outlines the barriers, enablers and detached dwellings and dual occupancies. key strategies for achieving the aspirations for each The Strategic Plan, does not consider changes to land use theme outlined as part of the Knox Vision. These themes zoning and built form controls in surrounding residential have provided a framework for the development of the areas, as these have been already been considered as part Strategic Plan and the vision and strategic objectives of the Knox Housing Strategy, 2015 and the associated contained in this report (refer Sections 3 and 4). The Planning Scheme Amendment C131. Strategic Plan aims to deliver the objectives and strategies contained in Knox Vision and City Plan, at a local level.

18 such asPlan Melbourne. consistent with State Government strategies and policies The Strategic Plan and the Knox Planning Scheme mustbe include: relevantDirections to inPlan Upper Gully Melbourne and the environment. such asinfrastructure, housing, employment, transport will guideitsdevelopment and growth, including matters metropolitan planning strategy for the 40years next and then State Government. The document isMelbourne’s Plan was released inMay Melbourne 2014, by the Plan Melbourne 2.2.2 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ urban and non-urban areas. non-urban and urban Direction 5.2 –Protect and restore natural habitats in growth. outcomes managing in sustainable Direction 5.1 –Use the city structure to drive excellence. Direction 4.8 –Achieve and promote design Direction 4.5 –Make our city greener. Direction 4.4 –Plan for future social infrastructure. healthy lifestyles. communities and for Direction 4.3 –Create neighbourhoods that are safe from inappropriate development. Direction 4.2 –Protect Melbourne and its suburbs neighbourhoods. Direction 4.1 –Create acity of 20 minute housing supply near services and public transport. Direction 2.2 –Reduce the cost of living by increasing

State Government Policy community needs and protect the environment. State to meet and effectively and efficiently services the provision of water supply, sewerage and drainage transport and walking and cycling paths. It also supports public by accessible resources are that highly community Clause 19 the -Supports location Infrastructure of get around. transport systems iteasyand to make safe to or people design to provide arange ofintegrated and sustainable Clause 18 future planning Transport -Supports and that provide for local both and tourist needs. provides arange ofland useswithinthe Centre Activity strategic to require direction future planning and design Clause 17 Economic Development - diversity withinthe Centre. Activity to provide for potentially increased housingsupplyand 16Clause Housing andcommunity the intrinsic qualities ofthe place. urban designthat responds to the needsofthe the future planning and designto provide high quality Clause 15 Built Environment and - Heritage minimise risks from landslip, bushfire and flooding. and designto appropriately respond to hazards and Clause 13 Environmental future planning Risk -Supports biodiversity, geological orlandscape value. to protect sites and features ofnature conservation, Clause 12Environment andLandscape Values -Seeks Centre. hierarchy Centres ofActivity asaNeighbourhood Activity future land uses. Upper Ferntree isidentified Gully inthe Clause 11 Settlement -Provides strategic for direction 2.2.3

State Policy Planning Supports future planning -Supports and design Provides the Supports Supports the Dandenong Ranges Foothills. built form and character controls for a commercial centre in a Commercial 1Zone - Clause 22.12 Residential Land Use and Development in theof Dandenong Foothills. aimsand to protect enhance and significance the landscape terms of the design of buildings in order to retain key views 22.01Clause - Foothills Dandenong have adetrimental on the environment. effect new development to adequately be as so serviced not to for the and need provision physical of services, social and Clause 21.08 -Provides Infrastructure the for direction Dandenong Ranges. within the municipality, including its role as agateway to the terms of its economic activity and its broader economic role Clause 21.07 in Economic direction Development -Provides setting. landscape valued of housing that appreciates its activity centre context and 21.05Clause - Housing of Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) principles. major contributor to long-term sustainability through the use parklands”.national Foothills,the Dandenong Creek Dandenong Valley, local and aesthetic, environmental and landscape values and vistas of to: “Protect is clause this and of enhance objective key the for improved pedestrian networks withinUpper Gully. A signage and landscaping Highway along Burwood and sustainable and site responsive and for publicart, fordirection the provision ofbuiltform that isecologically Clause 21.04 Design - Urban environmental andlandscape objectives for thefoothills”. that high level planning framework for Knox. The clause notes Clause 21.01 Municipal – Profile 2.2.4 “Urban consolidation the objectives mustnotoutweigh

Local Planning Policy Policy Planning Local The clause also notes that built form is a Provides direction for the preferred preferred the for direction Provides Provides the provision for direction Provides the strategic

Provides the context and Provides direction in in direction Provides 19 Part 2 Part 1 2.2.5 Zones and Overlays OVERLAYS Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) Overlays specify planning controls that apply to a ESO3 - Dandenong Ranges Buffer - recognises the ZONES single issue or related set of issues (such as heritage, environmental significance of indigenous vegetation Upper Gully is affected by the following zones. environmental concern or flooding). Consequently, a site to provide an ecological buffer zone to the Dandenong Plan GullyUpper Strategic may be affected by multiple overlays. Ranges. Only land north of Burwood Highway is affected Commercial 1 Zone (C1Z) by the overlay. Promotes vibrant mixed use commercial centres for retail, office, business, entertainment and community uses, as Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) Heritage Overlay (HO) well as residential uses at densities complementary to the The BMO identifies areas where bushfire is considered a role and scale of the commercial centre. hazard and warrants bushfire protection measures to be HO29 – Royal Hotel applies to the Royal Hotel located on implemented. the corner of Dawson Street and Burwood Highway, Upper Ferntree Gully. The Heritage Overlay aims to conserve and Neighbourhood Residential Zone (NRZ) enhance heritage places of natural or cultural significance Supports development that respects the neighbourhood Design and Development Overlays (DDOs) and requires that development does not adversely affect character of the area, implement neighbourhood Design and Development Overlays apply to both the these places. character policy, provide a diversity of housing types Activity Centre and the surrounding residential areas and moderate housing growth in locations offering of Upper Gully and generally limit the opportunity for Significant Landscape Overlay (SLO) good access to services and transport. It also allows for further growth. educational, religious, recreational and community, and ■■ SLO2 - Dandenong Foothills: Foothills Backdrop and a limited range of non-residential uses to serve the local ■■ DDO1 - Dandenong Foothills: Foothills Backdrop and Ridgeline Area – aims to facilitate development does community in appropriate locations. Ridgeline Area - development within this area must not impede views towards the Dandenong Ranges. respect the existing subdivision character of the area and allow for tree retention and planting. A key ■■ SL03 - Dandenong Foothills: Lower Slope and Valley Public Use Zone 4 – Transport (PUZ4) development control is the minimum subdivision size Area – aims to protect visually sensitive areas of the Dandenong Foothills due to its proximity to the slopes Aims to recognise public land use for public utility of 1,000sqm and site coverage control. of the Dandenong Ranges, which is recognised by the and community services and facilities, and provide for ■■ DDO2 - Dandenong Foothills: Lower Slope And Valley Natural Trust as having significant landscape values. associated uses that are consistent with the intent of the Area – development within this area must respect the public land reservation or purpose. existing subdivision character of the area and allow for tree retention and planting. A key development Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO) control is the minimum subdivision size of 500sqm, Public Use Zone 6 –Local Government (PUZ6) ■■ VPO1 - Remnant Vegetation with a High Degree site coverage controls and building height of 7.5m. of Naturalness - recognises the significance of the Aims to recognise land for community facilities and ■ DDO10 - Interim Neighbourhood Centre Height vegetation within close proximity to the Dandenong services, and covers kindergarten on the corner of ■ Control – provided interim height controls of 7.5m for Ranges National Park, both visually and ecologically. . Burwood Highway and Rollings Road. the Activity Centre, allowing Council time to complete The Strategic Plan reviews the extents of the Significant detailed planning work to inform permanent height Landscape Overlay (SLO2) and Vegetation Overlay (VPO1 controls. This overlay was removed over the Activity and VPO2) in the Activity Centre. Centre as part of this project. The Strategic Plan process determined the most 20 appropriate Design and Development Overlay for the Activity Centre. 2.2.6 foreseeable risk of landslip. controlsexisting buildingpermit adequately manage any Ferntree isgenerally Gully low, Council considers that the As the scale and nature ofdevelopment inUpper Creek. to the batter along slopes the southern waterway ofFerny Upper Ferntree Gully, whileareas ofhigh risk are isolated for building. Areas ofmediumrisk applyto the majority of landslip are categorised aseither mediumrisk orhigh risk considered to at be risk oflandslip. Those areas prone to A significant ofUpper Ferntree proportion is Gully Areas Landslip Declared north. and grass fire, withthisrisk primarily being from the risks for fire withinUpper Ferntree bushfire being Gully Consolidated identifies the Background two key Report) Existing CFA Fire (refer Mapping Risk to 70ofthe Map bushfire. as itisconsidered safer to move outofthe area during a Neighbourhood Safer Place (identified fire refuge area) an ‘extreme risk’ for fire and nothave does adesignated Upper Ferntree isconsidered Gully by the CFA to have Risk Bushfire ’. activity is ahighimpact of culture heritage sensitivity, andall, oftheactivity orpart isinanarea oftheproposed activity required ‘ifallorpart Heritage 2006aCultural Act Heritage Management Plan is Consolidated Background Report. Under the Aboriginal 200m ofFerntree Creek). Refer 8.2 to section ofthe within an area ofcultural heritage (i.e. sensitivity within A significant of the proportion Centre Activity islocated Areas of Cultural Sensitivity Heritage elements and considerations: isalsoUpper Gully affected by ofother anumber

Other Considerations Other Consolidated Background Report). (refer 4.3 to section Planning Policies and Controls ofthe Paths’, aswell asthe areas affected by the LSIOand SBO Consolidated )as Background Report ‘Overland Flow Flood (refer 7.8.2 Mapping section Hydrology ofthe on development withinareas identified inthe Existing Flood -Prone Areas’. These levels floor have implications Water’sMelbourne the Melbourne Water and set outinthe requirements of Floor levels for habitablerooms are determined by Planning Scheme. updatedmapping isbeing for incorporation into the Knox These overlays trigger approval by Melbourne Water This and Controls ofthe Consolidated Background Report). Water mappingonly(refer 4.3 to section Planning Policies and Flood Overlay (FO)and are basedonMelbourne Inundation Overlay (LSIO), Special Overlay Building (SBO) Planning Scheme controls include the Land to Subject ■ ■ drainage issuesinclude: of the Centre Activity isaffected by drainage issues. Key Background Report), indicates that asignificant portion 7.9to section Natural Hazards ofthe Consolidated Flood for (refer Upper Gully mappingundertaken Flooding ■ ■ policy. policy. at levels, pre-development consistent with state overland path flow to require discharge from property Council requires by affected an identified aproperty data only and therefore are indicative. Presently, Flood paths have been determined based on contour event as determined by Water. Melbourne depths of up to during 600mm a100-year ARI flood within Centre Activity boundarywill subject be to Event -This indicates that some private properties 100-year Average Recurrence Interval (ARI) Flood ‘Guidelines for Development in

freeboard levels: The guidelinessetoutthe following requirements for even ifaplanning isnotrequired. permit flooding. regulations Building capture all applications, regulationsBuilding setthe height ofbuildingsfrom ■ ■ ■ ■ For further details on policy frameworkFor 4 detailsonpolicy refer to Section further level. should at be least 0.15m above the 100-year ARI flood the 100-year level. ARI flood Outbuilding levels floor - Building levels floor should at be least 0.3m above For development within an overland path (SBO) flow least 0.3m above the 100-year level. ARI flood level.ARI flood Outbuilding levels floor should at be levelsfloor should at be least 0.6m above the 100-year For development (LSIO) within floodplain a Building - Key Strategic Influences intheUpperGullyPlan Consolidated Background Report. 21 Part 2 Part 1 2.3 Engagement

2.3.1 Overview 2.3.3 Community Workshops 2.3.4 Key Stakeholders and State Agencies

Plan GullyUpper Strategic A comprehensive engagement process aimed to inform Ten community workshops were held in the Upper The engagement process also included meetings and the preparation of the Strategic Plan and underpinned the Ferntree Gully Primary School (on weeknights and discussions with key stakeholders and state agencies. first three phases of the project. weekends) between August 2014 and May 2015. These The purpose of these discussions was to obtain their workshops provided the opportunity for a broad range aspirations for Upper Gully, determine future plans and 2.3.2 Engagement Opportunities of voices to contribute to discussions regarding the future to test scenarios and opportunities. Key stakeholders and aspirations of Upper Gully. state agencies engaged as part of this process included: Engagement activities and initiatives for the Upper Gully

Plan included: More specifically, the purpose of these community ■■ Bicycle Network Victoria; workshops was to: ■ Country Fire Authority (CFA); ■■ Ten Community workshops held between August 2014 ■ and May 2015; ■ Raise awareness in the community about change ■ ■■ Department of Environment, Land, Water and facing Upper Gully, now and in the future (e.g. ■ Two letter mail-outs to all landowners and occupiers Planning; ■ changing household needs, neighbourhood character in Upper Gully (2460), including Yarra Ranges Council ■ Department of Environment and Primary Industry and housing); ■ residents in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully; (former); ■ Stimulate, enable and encourage community dialogue ■ Follow up letters to landholders and business ■ ■ ■■ Environmental Protection Authority Victoria; operators in the Activity Centre, in an effort to and debate about key issues facing Upper Gully; ■■ Melbourne Water; stimulate attendance; ■■ Engage with diverse stakeholder and interest groups and benefactors across the community about current ■■ Parks Victoria; ■ Face to face contact with all business operators in the ■ issues and future aspirations for Upper Gully; Activity Centre; ■■ Public Transport Victoria;

■■ Stimulate and encourage community debate and ■ ■■ School project with year 5 and 6 students, facilitated ■ Shire of Yarra Ranges; by teachers of the Upper Ferntree Gully Primary dialogue to inform the development of strategic ■■ South East Water; School; directions for Upper Gully that will inform the development of a Strategic Plan; and ■■ Tourism Victoria; ■■ Activity held with the Talaskia Children and Families ■ ■ VicRoads; Centre; ■ Provide a strategic basis to develop and analyse key ■ directions and future development scenarios for Upper ■■ VicTrack; and ■■ A series of internal workshops (six workshops) and Gully. ongoing engagement with key service areas of ■ Yarra Ranges Tourism. The outputs from these community workshops included: ■ Council; Feedback from the consultation and engagement process ■ Understanding the current state and the causes or ■■ Two advertisements in the Foothills News; ■ was used to inform the vision and strategic objectives drivers that have influenced the current state. contained in this Strategic Plan. ■■ Council Facebook page; ■■ Establishing the aspirations and desired vision for ■ Dedicated online webpage; ■ Upper Gully.

■■ Online community survey; ■ Confirming the strategic objectives and strategies ■ For further details on the community and stakeholder ■ Liaison with government agencies and service ■ required to achieve the vision. engagement process, refer to the Upper Gully Plan providers (refer section 2.3.4); 22 Engagement Report, 2015. ■■ Independent urban design peer review; and

■■ Ongoing engagement with the Ward Councillor. Community workshop session-Stage 1b streetscape could upgraded be in keeping within environment” (Workshop 2survey, September 2014) (Workshop 2survey, September 2014) “Redo gateway bridge so it is to make it more attractive to “Shop fronts and general passing traffic” The InformationVisitors Centre ismanaged by Yarra Ranges Tourism and the buildingisvalued by the local community 23 Part 2 Part 1

2.4 Opportunities and Challenges Healthy, Connected Communities Prosperous, Advancing Economy

Upper Gully is facing a number of challenges and ■ ■ Upper Ferntree Gully’s population is projected to ■■ State Government planning policy that encourages opportunities that will affect its future planning and remain relatively stable with a slight increase from growth and development within Activity Centres, Plan GullyUpper Strategic development. 2,552 people in 2015 to 2,563 in 2036 (0.41% increase). particularly those adjacent public transport links such The opportunities and challenges for Upper Gully The proportion of people over 70 years in age will as the Activity Centre. were determined based on extensive research and increase as will the proportion of lone person and ■■ Current Commercial Zone 1 applied to the Activity investigations undertaken by the consultant and project couples without dependants. Housing types, health Centre allows for a variety of land uses to be teams, including desktop analysis, site visits, specialist services and community services will need to change accommodated. reports, and community and stakeholder engagement. to the meet the needs of the future population. ■■ Due to limited population growth, demand for These are summarised in this section. ■ Upper Gully is well serviced by health resources with ■ additional retail and commercial uses is likely to be the presence of the Angliss Hospital and associated These opportunities and challenges have been aligned to marginal. medical uses. There are opportunities to provide the five City Plan themes: additional allied health services in the Activity Centre. ■■ There are opportunities to strengthen Upper Gully’s ■ Democratic and Engaged Communities tourism role given its location at the gateway to the ■ ■ Community facilities are generally located around ■ Dandenong Ranges and its proximity to key tourist ■ Healthy, Connected Communities Talaskia Road and Kings Park. There may be an ■ destinations including the 1,000 Steps. opportunity to provide additional community facilities ■■ Prosperous, Advancing Economy within the Activity Centre, within easy access of ■■ Recent trends in consumer spending show significant ■■ Vibrant and Sustainable Built and Natural residents and well connected by public transport links. increase in hospitality spending which further Environments strengthens opportunities for tourism. ■■ A review of existing services within Upper Gully is ■ ■ Culturally Rich and Active Communities required to identify existing and future needs for the ■■ A number of underutilised sites within the Activity The City Plan themes provide Council with the framework community and to determine if existing facilities are Centre provide opportunities for greater residential to monitor the community’s wellbeing and achievement ‘fit for purpose’ and the future likely needs. intensification and mixed use development. Land uses that activate the Activity Centre during the day and toward its broader Vision for Knox. ■ Play and youth spaces within the Activity Centre ■ night should be encouraged to enhance the vibrancy A summary of the City Plan themes is provided in section 3.3 are currently limited. There is the opportunity to of the Activity Centre. of the Strategic Plan. incorporate play facilities within the Activity Centre to enhance Upper Gully as an inclusive place for children Democratic and Engaged Communities and young people.

■■ There are opportunities to encourage neighbourhood ■■ The Upper Gully community has a strong interest in local issues, which was demonstrated by strong design that makes people feel safe both during the attendance and active participation at workshops for day and at night.

the Strategic Plan. ■■ There are a number of local and volunteer groups in Upper Gully. There are opportunities to engage and ■■ Upper Gully sits on the border of Knox City Council and the Shire of Yarra Ranges and includes land collaborate with these groups to deliver improvements managed by a number of State Government Agencies. to Upper Gully, where appropriate.

24 Environments ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ the Activity Centre. Centre. Activity the prevalent as development pressure in is experienced Interval (ARI)flooding. This issue will become more mainstream paths, i.e. 100-year Average Recurrence within the Centre Activity (overland and flow Drainage is an existing key constraint for building create and issues. streets safety consultation that impact the Highway, Burwood local GullyUpper were during community identified A number and of road, parking issues traffic within Centre. Activity the within transport by improving infrastructure and amenity public and cycling walking, including transport private vehicles to more sustainable modes of There are opportunities to encourage from ashift spaces. community better utilise these assets and enhance them as character and identity. There are opportunities to and streets make asignificant contribution to its environmental Gully’sUpper creeks parks, reserves, housing than mostother areas inKnox. offersUpper Gully more affordable detached dwelling areas. residential surrounding Centre are not as strong as the planning controls in the areas, however, the planning controls in the Activity on protecting this setting in surrounding residential A number of planning policies and controls focus relationship to the surrounding Dandenong Ranges. The identity of Upper Gully is strongly influenced by its alternative housing typologies. have the same constraints, and as such, could support dwellings on large lots. Centre The Activity doesn’t areas of Upper Gully and aim to detached support residential surrounding the within growth further Existing local policies that limit opportunities for Vibrant andSustainableBuiltNatural ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ implemented under the building regulations. CentreActivity (area of Rose north Street) and are ‘Bushfire Prone Areas’ cover agreater area within the the Centre, Activity of Highway. Burwood north Bushfire ManagementA Overlay (BMO) applies to safer to move out of the area during abushfire. Place (identified fire refuge area) as it is considered not have does and designated Safer a Neighbourhood considered by the CFA to have an ‘extreme risk’for fire for, and respond to, future bushfires. Upper Gully is emphasised the need to prevent, prepare and plan Recent across bushfires significant has and Australia development (public and private) across Gully. Upper future in pursued be should WSUD opportunities (WSUD) and Stormwater Management Strategy. and streams through its Water Sensitive Urban Design Council is seeking to improve the health of waterways manage any foreseeable risk of landslip. of risk any foreseeable manage that the existing building permit controls adequately outside of the Centre Activity area. Council considers slopes along the southern waterway of Ferny Creek Areas of high landslip risk are isolated to the batter event. bushfire are aware of appropriate procedures to follow during a further communication and education that so people for need the highlighted consultation community or in close proximity to Upper Gully. Despite this, providing aplanned response to abushfire within The CFA has released anumber of documents

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ The drivers for change, andchallengeslisted opportunities above, have influenced thevisionandstrategic objectives further enhance its role. its enhance further environment. supportive a There are to opportunities opportunities for people to participate and socialise in and culture within Upper Gully and also provides The 1812 Theatre provides afocal point for arts restored and celebrated. local community. Valued buildings should retained, be Ranges Tourism and is an asset highly valued by the The Visitors Information Centre is managed by Yarra enjoyment future for generations. reinforces the preservation of this feature for use and A Heritage Overlay applied to the Royal Hotel the identity and tells of the Upper story Gully. good opportunity to provide public that art expresses With an absence of public in Upper art Gully, there is a community. local the resources for cultural the Centre Activity and provides arange of social and Wally Tew Reserve is located within close proximity to belonging. community together and create asense of pride and encourage additional local events that bring the provide acivic space within the Centre Activity and community gathering. There are opportunities to provided for within the Centre Activity to allow for Currently, there are no formal public / civic space improvements. on this through events, programs and public realm Dandenong There are Ranges. to opportunities build in the region, particularly associated with the Upper Gully has astrong and history artists of art Culturally RichandActiveCommunities outlined in Section 3oftheStrategicoutlined inSection Plan. 25 Part 2 Part 1 3. VISION AND STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

3.1 The Vision for the Activity Centre The vision is an aspirational statement of the preferred long term future for the Activity Centre. The vision is Upper Ferntree Gully Activity Centre will be... Plan GullyUpper Strategic important as it sets out what the Activity Centre should look, feel and function in the future for the community. The Activity Centre plays a critical role in supporting the “a vibrant and friendly centre with a distinct ‘village’ feel that is serviced by a Upper Gully community. range of community, employment and recreational opportunities connected The vision statement was developed during community by safe walking and cycling paths, and public transport. Its character and engagement workshops undertaken between August and November 2014 and the analysis of key opportunities and identity is strongly defined by the foothills setting and its relationship with challenges for Upper Gully. the Dandenong Ranges.

The public spaces are valued by all residents. The streets are people oriented, thriving places for business and inspiring places to enjoy, due to the quality of landscaping, public art and architecture.

There is a strong sense of community and local residents are proud to call it home, and visitors are welcomed to engage in a range of public events and cultural experiences offered in the centre”.

26 strategy. Plan and identifies the needed to achieve actions each The Implementation Plan formsofthe part Strategic areobjective 4ofthisStrategic detailedinSection Plan. 3.3.Section strategiesThe for supporting eachstrategic The strategic for objectives are Upper Gully outlinedin Upper Gully. articulate ‘on the ground outcomes’ to achieved be for and strategies. supporting They the visionand support Strategic Plan provides ofstrategic a number objectives In order to achieve the visionfor the Centre, Activity the 3.2

Implementing the Vision the Implementing Implementing the Vision Figure Implementing 04.

Knox Vision Themes and Drivers of Change A summary oftheA summary guidingcomponents mostimportant ofUpper Gully and at willbe the core ofall decisionsmadefor key the Centre Activity Prov the strategies. While ledby Council, willinvolve ofactions anumber Provide ways specific to dothingsinorder to execute the strategies. collaboration including stakeholders the withkey community, land They are innature and actionable are the tasksrequired to achieve ide an approach for ormethod meetingthe strategic objectives. ‘How we mightinfluence to achieve thestrategic objective’ holders, businessoperators and government agencies. The aspirational statement for the preferred longterm ‘What are we aimingto achieve’‘What future of the Centre Activity STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES into the future STRATEGIES ACTIONS VISION

COMMUNITY & STAKEHOLDER INPUT STAKEHOLDER & COMMUNITY BACKGROUND RESEARCH , TECHNICAL REPORTS TECHNICAL , RESEARCH BACKGROUND 27 Part 2 Part 1 3.3 Strategic Objectives CITY PLAN THEMES: Democratic and Engaged Communities - Aims to The Strategic Plan will be guided by a set of strategic improve community leadership and participation objectives. They aim to articulate the Knox Vision and in Knox and ensure Council is well governed and Plan GullyUpper Strategic Knox City Plan 2013-17 at a local level. The strategic demonstrates effective leadership. objectives were developed through the extensive engagement process, background research and technical Healthy, Connected Communities - Aims to studies undertaken for the Strategic Plan. provide a safe community with strong community connections, where learning and volunteering are The strategic objectives are a summary of the ten most valued and supported, and the Knox community important guiding components of Upper Gully. They will benefits from good health and wellbeing at all life be used to direct and assess all future planning and design stages. outcomes within the Activity Centre to direct future development to be consistent with the community’s Prosperous, Advancing Economy - Aims to provide aspirations for the area. a strong local economy that supports business growth, jobs and community wealth and improve Table 1 (overleaf) identifies the ten strategic objectives local opportunities for people to live, work, learn to guide the future outcomes of Upper Gully. The five and play in Knox. City Plan themes are aligned with the relevant strategic Vibrant and Sustainable Built and Natural objectives. Environments - Aims to ensure the changing Section 4 following, aligns the strategic objectives with needs of a diverse community are supported strategies and actions. through planned growth and change in housing and infrastructure that respects built form, natural systems and resource availability. It also aims to ensure biodiversity and places of natural significance, including waterways and open space, are highly valued, protected and enhanced, and infrastructure networks provide transport choice, affordability and connectivity. Culturally Rich and Active Communities - Aims to improve the acceptance and valuing of diversity and difference in the Knox community and increase the use of public spaces and infrastructure for the purposes of cultural expression and physical activity. .

28 Table 1 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES designated landslip areas. landslip designated hazards, including bushfire from the surrounding area, from flood overland and flow mainstream flooding and landslip in culture. and greater share of the passing tourism market. community that infrastructure delivers services. of range a excellence in built form and landscape quality and design in the Centre Activity and along Highway. Burwood STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 10 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 9 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 8 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 7 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 6 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 5 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 4 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 3 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 2 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 1 the range of intergenerational of the range and sustainable Centre. housing available opportunities in the Activity retail and commercial land uses that meet the needs of the community. community. the of building and that prioritises the most popular routes linking key destinations (e.g. shops, public services, spaces, parks). management Gully. Upper of – The Strategic Objectives

-To strengthen Upper Gully’s tourism brand as agateway to the Dandenong Ranges and capture a -To meet the changing needs of the community over time, provide high quality, localised social and -To strengthen the identity and connection with the surrounding foothills landscape through -To manage the risk to and people, the property environment from adverse impacts of natural - To provide asafe and integrated access and movement network for walking, cycling and vehicles - To strengthen the community’s valued local legacy, promoting Upper Gully’s distinctive history, arts - To enable people to age in place and meet the needs of changing household structures, increase - To enhance its role as an Centre, Activity the support growth of business, including health, tourism, - To facilitate the use effective of spaces (e.g. streets, open space, plazas, parks) for the networking -To strengthen custodianship and leadership and partner with the community in the planning and CITY PLAN PLAN CITY THEME ALIGNMENT

29 Part 2 Part 1 4. THE STRATEGIC RESPONSE

KEY INFLUENCES A proposed open space network integrating creek STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 1 Walking and Cycling corridors and roads provides the basis for high quality, To provide a safe and integrated access and continuous walking and cycling network across Upper There are opportunities to clearly define and prioritise Gully. This will be provided through shared walking and Plan GullyUpper Strategic movement network for walking, cycling and walking within Upper Gully so that it is convenient, cycling paths that are located within open space corridors vehicles that prioritises the most popular routes comfortable and provides an enjoyable experience for and separated from vehicles on key roads. linking key destinations (e.g. shops, services, pedestrians within and to the Activity Centre. Prioritising public spaces, parks). walking will help to create vibrant streets, improve safety Knox City Council aims to formalise the Oppy Route and surveillance and strengthen businesses. (attributed to Sir Hubert Opperman) to increase recreational opportunities (refer Map 05). Residents and WHAT YOU’VE SAID The Activity Centre, generally, has good walking facilities visitors alike will have the opportunity to walk, run or ■■ Car parking was identified by workshop participants in place with wide footpaths along shop frontages. cycle the Oppy Route utilising wayfinding route markers as a major issue. Particular concerns focused on the There is also good lighting and active street frontages for navigation. The route could be extended to link pedestrian, cyclist and motorist safety issues created by which contribute to the feeling of safety. This being into the Activity Centre. Ensuring walking and cycling car parking for the 1,000 Steps spilling out onto Mount said, community consultation and research highlighted within our pedestrian and cycling network will assist in Dandenong Tourist Road, car parking around the Angliss locations where pedestrian amenity and footpath facilities reducing barriers to active travel use and improve physical Hospital impacting on surrounding residential streets could be improved or enhanced. Generally these were activity opportunities within the municipality for better and car parking from retail uses and the railway station located along Burwood Highway and access to the Activity health outcomes. In conjunction with the installation impacting on Mount View Road. Centre from residential areas and Angliss Hospital. of Oppy Route markers, Council aims to install a unified wayfinding signage suite to improve navigation within the ■■ Significant discussion was focused around walking and Cycling infrastructure within Upper Gully requires cycling within the Activity Centre and to surrounding significant improvements. Existing bike routes are shared path and footpath networks. With five different residential areas and facilities. generally provided in the form of off-road trails along the wayfinding signage designs within Knox City Council’s network, it is envisaged that a standardised wayfinding ■ Within surrounding areas, specific issues focused on the railway line, parts of Burwood Highway and Ferny Creek, ■ system will be developed and implemented. poor conditions of footpaths, the absence of footpaths however, a continuous connection to the Activity Centre in some areas, difficult access created by steep terrain or the railway station from the south is not provided. Public Transport and opportunities to better connect Quarry Park to the The Ringwood to Belgrave Rail Trail passes through Upper The railway station is a key transport hub for Upper Gully Activity Centre. Gully providing a shared pedestrian and cyclist path along providing an interchange between rail and bus services. ■■ Within the Activity Centre a number of pedestrian safety the Belgrave rail line from the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail While the railway station area itself appears to have issues were highlighted including the footpath that in Ringwood to the Belgrave Railway Station. Where the been recently upgraded, its surrounds, including car park crosses the Maxi Foods car park entrance from Burwood trail meets Burwood Highway, cyclists and pedestrians areas, bus bays and entrances were highlighted during Highway, limited visibility between pedestrians and are required to travel approximately 400m off the trail to consultation as being unattractive and having limited motorists at the corner of Dawson Street and Burwood cross Burwood Highway safely. An opportunity exists to pedestrian amenity. While it is acknowledged that the Highway, the absence of a footpath on the northern side provide a direct connection across the highway through a railway station must remain for the primary purpose as of Burwood Highway and opportunities to improve the shared pedestrian and cycle bridge parallel to the existing a transport hub with car parking facilities, its prominent pedestrian connections to the railway station. rail bridge. location on the north side of the Burwood Highway makes its appearance particularly important in defining the ■■ The intersection of Rollings Road and Old Belgrave Road was identified as a key safety issue for vehicle image and character of Upper Gully. movements within the Activity Centre.

30 amenity impact ofextended car impact amenity parking. to address concerns community ofsafety and residential concerns. restrictedTime introduced hasbeen parking Centre and Angliss Hospital were the areas identified as workshops issueinUpper Gully. asakey The Activity Car was identified parking across ofcommunity anumber Car Parking core ofthe centre. Centre,Activity responds to itscontext and notdividethe critical Highway, that Burwood asitmoves through the and commercial activity. To facilitate improvements itis through and Upper Gully provides the location for retail Highway,Burwood the whichisboth traffic key route are focusedopportunities around access to and from Centre (refer Movendo 2015). ofthese Anumber improve traffic movement into and through the Activity research and consultation revealed to opportunities to change significantly into the future, background While the road network isnotanticipated inUpper Gully Vehicle Access HighwayBurwood to the railway station. advocate for improvements to pedestrian access across residential areas to busstops and the railway station and implement improvements from established to linkages documents suchasthe Strategic Plan. Council can also for improvements to infrastructure and layout through of the railway station oritssurrounds, itcan advocate Although Council isnotresponsible for the management access to the 1,000Steps. station and advocate for improvements to pedestrian implement improvements from the to linkages railway documents suchasthe Strategic Plan. Council can also improvements to infrastructure and layout through within the Shire of Yarra Ranges), itcan advocate for Dandenongor Mount Tourist (whichare Road located Although Council isnotresponsible for the 1,000Steps increase and therefore to escalate. thisissueislikely residential growth, tourist visitation isanticipated to considered inadequate for weekend patronage. Unlike by the asan community issue, with car spaces parking Car around parking the 1,000Steps was also highlighted streets. order to minimisethe onsurrounding impacts residential better manage car around parking the Angliss Hospital in School. The Strategic Plan provides recommendations to extend along Talaskia all Road the way to the Primary only inthe immediate ofthe vicinity hospital and donot However, the high demands parking are concentrated in the streets inthe immediate ofthe vicinity hospital. Hospital revealed reasonably high occupancies parking however underutilised. Parking around surveys the Angliss within the Centre Activity withtimerestrictions were occupancy. other Most on-street and off-street spaces Centre and the railway station, also exhibit 100percent unrestricted incloseproximity parking to the Activity Mount and Road View Street, Rose whichprovide day onweekdays. 100 percentexhibited virtually occupancy throughout the that the Railway Station car park, withnotimerestrictions, understand the issuesat play. Occupancy results revealed the Railway Station and the Angliss Hospital to better Parking occupancy were around surveys undertaken .4 1 S 1.3 S S1.2 .1 1 S STRATEGIES

Road, andtheAngliss Hospital. by the1,000Steps andMount Dandenong Tourist Improve caused impacts themanagement ofparking 05,Map 07 06andMap Map Highwayand Burwood laneasidentified on service and RollingsRoadintersection, Mount View Road, Highway sites includingtheBurwood opportunity Improve vehicular movement, andsafety at parking Centre.Activity around therailway station to andconnections the Improve andpriority amenity andcyclist pedestrian and theAngliss Hospital. station, retail areas, schools, community facilities access linksto publictransport, includingtherailway Highwayand Burwood to improve thesafety and Dawson Street, Mount View Road, Talaskia Road Improvements, whichincludesJohns Street, in accordance 05Movement withMap andAccess Improve networks andcycle pedestrian thepriority . 31 Part 2 Part 1 Map 05. Movement and Access Improvements, focuses on providing Quarry Road Investigate opportunity Potential to provide high quality and comfortable paths for pedestrians and cyclists to move improvements including, to provide pedestrian shared path overpass sealing roadway, public priority at signalised across Burwood Highway, between key destinations within Upper Gully, as well as ensuring vehicle lighting, footpath, and intersections to reduce adjacent to the existing access is safe and coherent. The need for pedestrian amenity and vehicle indented parking bays. pedestrian waiting railway bridge. This also access improvements was identified through community consultation times. provides a gateway opportunity for the and background research. Activity Centre.

MOVEMENT AND ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS - UPPER GULLY Plan GullyUpper Strategic

32 Opportunity for improvements Advocate to VicRoads to Opportunity to enhance pedestrian to vehicular movement, parking reduce motor vehicle speed amenity and safety between the Activity and pedestrian safety along limit along Burwood Hwy Centre to Key Pedestrian and Cycle Map 05. Movement and Access Improvement Opportunities Burwood Hwy service lane, in the Activity Centre to 60 Destinations as part of the Streetlight Mount View Rd, Dawson St, km/hr. (LED) Replacement Program. Rollings Rd and Talaskia Rd. Figure Dawson 06. Street / Ferny Creek Trail –Proposed Improvements Figure 05. Dawson Street /Ferny Creek Trail –Existing Conditions priority at the road intersection. to improveidentify opportunities through thisconnection signage, landscaping and clear pedestrian and cyclist’s The imagesbelow demonstrate the existing condition at the ofDawson intersection Street and Ferny Creek Trail and background research, whichincluded the Transport andAddendum andParking (Movendo Report 2015and 2016). Creek Trail and on-street paths along Dawson Street. to improve Opportunities were thisconnection identified through Figures 05and 06provide existing conditions and designproposal to improve the between the connection Ferny and other destinations. key between the Ferny Creek Trail, the Centre Activity Directional signageto help navigate people their way access along Dawson Street. treatment also allows for busand emergencyservice improving safety for pedestrians. The proposed travel at lower when speeds approaching the crossing, Trail crossing at vehicles Dawson to Street supports Rumble strip located either side of the Ferny Creek Trail isunclear and obscured by planting. Connection between Dawson Street and Ferny Creek for crossing the road. space limited provides pedestrians and to pause cyclists and continue island traffic Existing 33 Part 2 Part 1 Figures 07 and 08 provide design proposals to improve pedestrian access at the intersection of Hilltop Road and Burwood Highway. This intersection was identified as being unsafe for pedestrians and motorists through background research and Transport and Parking Technical Report (Movendo 2015). The images below demonstrate the existing condition at the intersection and identify opportunities to improve this connection through the provision of a pedestrian refuge island and / or paving treatments. Plan GullyUpper Strategic

Existing intersection at Hilltop Road prioritises vehicular movement, despite being a key route into the Activity Centre.

Figure 07. Intersection of Hilltop Rd and Burwood Highway looking east – Existing Conditions

As part of an integrated signage strategy, provide new bike directional signage and pavement symbols in the vicinity of this intersection to reduce confusion for cyclists and pedestrians.

Install new physical refuge island to assist pedestrians and cyclists crossing Hilltop Road to continue along off-road trails.

Investigate the opportunity to use paving treatments to highlight the pedestrian crossing and to support reduced vehicle speeds.

34 Figure 08. Intersection of Hilltop Rd and Burwood Highway looking east – Proposed Improvements Maxi Foods Maxi Highway 06. Map /Burwood Entrance Improvements Foods discussionswithMaxi further /Ferntree Plaza Shopping Centre, whichare privately owned. improve the ofthe amenity adjacent streetscape and car park areas. Improvements withinthe car park area willrequire The reconfiguration aimsto enhance pedestrian and motorist safety along the Highway frontage ofBurwood and consultationcommunity and background research, whichincluded the Transport(Movendo andParking Report 2015). the entrance Foods ofMaxi car park. This area was identified unsafe asbeing for pedestrians and motorists through 06.Map Foods Maxi entrance Highway, from Burwood provides for the reconfiguration road ofthe space at service MAXI FOODSMAXI ENTRANCE FROM BURWOOD HIGHWAY PLAN EXISTING BUILT 0 SCALE: 1:250 FORM 2.5 5 10 15

12.5m SERVICE ROAD SERVICE MAXI FOODS

CAR PARKCAR BURWOOD HIGHWAY BURWOOD EXISTING BUILT FORM

DAWSON STREET destinations withinthe Centre. Activity and to help navigate people to key HighwayStreet /Burwood intersection to reinforce the importance ofthe Dawson for signageandOpportunity /orpublicart landscaping. for seating andshops withopportunities New publicspace created infront of pedestrian priority at thispoint. entrance into Foods Maxi to indicate Provide paving treatment at newvehicle suitableforshould be all level ofmobility. entrance ofthe shoppingcomplex. This Highwaythe Burwood footpath to the provide contiguous pedestrian access from to Foods work withMaxi toOpportunity provide shade for pedestrians. oftheimpact large expanse ofasphalt and FoodsMaxi car park to the soften visual for tree plantingOpportunity within the clearer viewofapproaching cars). attempting to cross the vehicular a entry vehicle (i.e. conflicts providespedestrians foods car park and reduce pedestrian / west to enablesafe entrance into the Maxi- lane located Service further vehicle entry

35 Part 2 Part 1 Map 07. Rollings Road / Old Belgrave Road Concept Plan, provides design proposals to simplify the Rollings Road / Old Belgrave Road / Burwood Highway intersection so that vehicle and pedestrian movements are clearly defined and safer. This intersection was identified as being unsafe through community engagement and the Transport and Parking Report (Movendo 2015). The plan aims to enhance pedestrian and motorist safety at this intersection by simplifying car movements and providing paving treatments, as well as signage to make it easier for pedestrians to get around. Plan GullyUpper Strategic

ROLLINGS ROAD / OLD BELGRAVE ROAD CONCEPT PLAN

BURWOOD HIGHWAY

OLD BELGRAVE RD SERVICE ROAD Opportunity for low / ground cover planting to improve the appearance of the streetscape to reinforce pedestrian movement along footpaths.

Investigate the opportunity to improve the informal car park subject to advocating to VicTrack. Improvements KINDER should aim to improve safety, complement adjacent community uses and landscaped space.

Simplify vehicle movements by removing direct entry into the service road from Rollings Road. ROLLINGS RD

Opportunity to reclaim road reserve for new public space with landscaping and seating at the eastern edge of the Activity Centre.

Provide treatments at key street intersections to improve the safety of pedestrians crossing the road.

SCALE: NTS Opportunity for signage and / or public 0 5 10 15 20 25m WILLIAM STREET art to help people navigate to key 36 destinations within the Activity Centre. Map 07. Rollings / Old Belgrave Roads Improvement Opportunities elements, and provide visual relief and ‘greening’. allow for the retention ofhigh value vegetation/cultural for passive and recreation, active social interaction, landscape setting. These spaces provide the opportunity Talaskia and Reserve Park Quarry ofthe form part akey The majorparks including Park, inUpper Gully Kings but also provides habitat important and recreational links. corridors. This notonlyprovides astrong visual backdrop, Centre through private property, along streets and creek National Park and the surrounding hillsinto the Activity history. Vegetation extends from Dandenong Ranges isintrinsicallyGully to itscharacter, linked and identity The landscape and environmental settingofUpper KEY INFLUENCES WHAT YOU’VE SAID ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ networking and building of the community. the of building and networking streets, open space, plazas, parks) for the To facilitate the effective use of spaces (e.g. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 2 amenity in Rose in amenity Street. Gully and the potential to provide greater pedestrian enhancing the railway bridge as agateway into Upper included improvement identified Other opportunities for children and young people. for community events and gathering and more places included the provision of atown square /public square Centre was also identified by participants. Suggestions The need for additional public spaces within the Activity RangesDandenong National Park. Kings Park and improved access to Quarry Park and the key parks including Talaskia Reserve, the playground at by participants. Improvements were suggested for The parks within Upper Gully were also highly valued Gully. Upper identified by participants as valued characteristics of The surrounding foothills and its landscape were Highway and Street. Rose green also has pedestrian access linksto Burwood both underutilised crown land corridor. This potential village road area reserve of StreetWilliam and the adjoining inthe Centrefacility Activity isoffered by the unsealed The potential for amuchneededaccessible green space more contained, and offers aplace for events. Highway,public space to Burwood whichisquieter and andcycle vehicle space. This willprovide an alternative improvements through the creation ofshared pedestrian, StreetRose hasalso recommended been for streetscape in the Centre. Activity Centre. There are also nogreen spaces for leisure orplay and activities, whichare currently limited inthe Activity role Centre ofActivity and allow for events community interact and relax. This space would also enhance the civic plaza orstreet), where the local can community gather, inthebe form ofurban civicspaces (hardscape square, for agathering space inthe Centre. Activity This could The engagement community phasesidentified the desire adjoining residential areas. passive surveillance and enhanced from connections corridor could improved be withlandscaping, signage, and Reserve Gully St Joseph’s Regional College. This Centre,Activity Park, Kings Ferntree Library, Gully Ferntree between destinations including key connections the The Ferny Creek corridor provides and walking cycling and could improved. be however to the connections Centre Activity are limited series ofboardwalks that linkto the nearby National Park, setting.its dramatic quarry There are plans to provide a Centre and provides an alternative park experience with for Park. Kings Park Quarry islocated closeto the Activity Talaskia and Reserve hasidentified playground upgrades amasterCouncil plan isundertaking for improvements to S2.2 S2.1 STRATEGIES suburbs and the Dandenong Ranges. express the landscape transition between the edgeofthe therefore envisaged to have extensive native planting to Highwayidentifies Burwood asa attractive, and streets walkable and Clause 21.04, which promotes pedestrian safety and by providing activity safe, account the ofLiveable directions Streets Strategy, which opportunities. Streetscape upgrades shouldalso into take paving and widerfootpaths providing outdoor dining withadditionalpeople street tree planting, consistent along Highway the Burwood by enhancing the space for Gully. The Strategic Plan proposes streetscape upgrades The streets are equally publicspaces important inUpper spaces. adjoining landusesto provide community Activate spaces through events, programs and and 09to provide community spaces. and streets asindicated 05, onMaps 06, 07,08 Enhance Upper Gully’s parks, creek corridors ‘Path to the Hills’, and is 37 Part 2 Part 1 Map 08. Public Open Spaces and Streets Improvements, focuses on providing an integrated network of spaces (e.g. streets, open space, plazas, parks) for the networking and building of the community. The need for an integrated network of spaces that provide for a range of uses, in particular community gathering, was identified through community consultation and background research.

PUBLIC OPEN SPACES AND STREETS IMPROVEMENTS Plan GullyUpper Strategic

Enhance Upper Gully’s parks, creek corridors and streets to provide spaces for building the community.

Support the objectives and strategies outlined in the Knox Liveable Street Plan.

Implement Quarry Park Master Plan 38 Stages 5 & 6. Map 08. Public Open Space and Street Improvement Opportunities (Movendo 2015). research, which included the Transport andParking Report through consultation community and background Centre,Activity particularly Dawson Street, was identified improving pedestrian along streets amenity key withinthe pedestrian along amenity Dawson Street. The needfor Figure 09and 10provide designproposals for improving Figure 10. Dawson -Proposed Street Improvements Enhancement Opportunity Figure 09. Dawson -Existing Conditions Street Enhancement Opportunity of the streetscape dominant element Car park isa along the street outstands provide agreen view Street trees withinkerb environment diminish the pedestrian Driveway crossovers parking at theparking rear along Dawson Street, withcar provides street active frontage development that Support Dawson Street of within thissection No street trees planted activate the street Potential for adjacent sites to adjoining footpaths provide for activation of Existing car parks donot 39 Part 2 Part 1 Map 09. Public Spaces and Streets Improvement Plan, provides design proposals for improving existing public spaces and streets within the Activity Centre and identifying opportunities for new public spaces, in particular along Rose Street and William Street. The need for a dedicated public gathering space within the Activity Centre was identified through community engagement and background research. The plan aims to provide places for people to gather and recreate, as well as providing space for public events within the Activity Centre. It also aims to improve the street level experience by encouraging active frontages along key pedestrian routes and encouraging passive surveillance along pedestrian links. Plan GullyUpper Strategic

PUBLIC SPACES AND STREETS IMPROVEMENT PLAN

BURWOOD HIGHWAY

RETAIL SHOP FRONTS RETAIL SHOP Upgrade the Activity Centre streetscape FRONTS to improve walkability, pedestrian priority ROYAL over cars and improve access for people HOTEL with reduced mobility. Potential to provide rear access for retail shops fronting Burwood Highway provided off court located in William Street. 1812 Enhance public space for potential village THEATRE green by reclaiming crown land corridor currently encroached upon by a number of private landholders. ROSE STREET WILLIAM STREET ROYAL MAXI FOODS Opportunity to create a shared pedestrian HOTEL EMPLOYEE / cycle vehicle space along Rose Street CAR CAR PARK MAXI PARK allowing for greater pedestrian priority, FOODS wider outdoor dining spaces and potential CAR to close this street to vehicles occasionally PARK STREETDAWSON to allow for events. Potential opportunity for new village green ROSE STREET providing a local green space, with play facilities, within the Activity Centre. RESIDENTIAL USES Support adjoining properties to front onto the village green to provide passive surveillance Potential opportunity for future redevelopment of existing car park sites with uses that provide activity onto the adjoining streets. Provide pedestrian link with clear sightlines through to the village green. Potential to reconfigure the hotel car park so that driveway crossovers along Dawson

SCALE: NTS Street are minimised and pedestrian 0 5 10 15 20 25m priority is provided through the car park. 40 WILLIAM STREET Maintain right of way access to 1-11 Map 09. Public Space and Street Improvement Opportunities Dawson Street for pedestrians. street might designedfor be outdoor dining. pedestrian withinthe amenity street and for how the Streetof Rose and to improve identify opportunities The imagesopposite identify the existing condition consultation. identified through background research and community StreetRose and utilisethisspace asashared space was space for cars and people). to enhance Opportunities StreetRose could improved be asashared space (as Figures 11and 12provide designproposals for how Figure RoseStreet 12. -Proposed Shared Improvements Space Opportunity Figure 11. RoseStreet -Existing Conditions Shared Space Opportunity created opportunities dining Outdoor opportunities limit outdoor dining Narrow footpaths dining to outdoor separation provide safe Bollards to a one-way road road pavement for Large amount of vehicles for publicevents potential to closeto vehicle access with pedestrian and /cyclist the road isshared for Central of section Rose StreetRose planted within No street trees street view along the provide agreen Street trees street space do notactivate the Adjacent properties address Street Rose to redevelop and adjoining sites for Opportunities 41 Part 2 Part 1 KEY INFLUENCES The view along Dawson Street is currently very open as STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 3 Views and building heights the car parks on either side of the road are undeveloped. This enables expansive views to the vegetated hills when To strengthen the identity and connection with The character and identity of the Activity Centre is travelling north along the street. Testing of the built form the surrounding foothills landscape through largely influenced by its sense of containment within scenarios indicated that an upper (second) level recessed excellence in built form and landscape quality the surrounding foothills. Views from and within the by 2m increased the views to the vegetated hillside and and design in the Activity Centre and along Activity Centre are characterised by low scale buildings retained a stronger sense of openness than the scenario Burwood Highway. set within a strong backdrop of the treed foothills setting. with no upper level setback. The 2m upper level setback The consultation phases identified this as a highly valued also reduces visual bulk when looking at the buildings Plan GullyUpper Strategic characteristic of Upper Gully. WHAT YOU’VE SAID from the front and supports opportunities for upper level There are a number of locations across the Activity Centre useable balcony spaces. The upper level setback has been ■■ Participants highlighted the importance of preserving applied to all locations where three storeys is proposed. the foothills, trees and the green open spaces. Coupled from where views to the treed backdrop are available. For with this was the importance of the views from Upper pedestrians, key viewing locations include the pedestrian The Strategic Plan proposes maximum building heights of Gully to the surrounding hills. crossings at the Dawson Street / Burwood Highway 8.5m (two storeys) across the Activity Centre and 12.0m intersection, the Burwood Highway shops looking north (three storeys) for 1-3 Rose Street to facilitate the fly- ■ It was generally suggested that buildings within the ■ towards the Dandenong Ranges National Park, the tower for The 1812 Theatre, above natural ground level Activity Centre should not exceed two storeys and should railway station car park where the weekly market ‘The or above the minimum floor level requirements for flood be respectful of the surrounding views. Gully Market’ is held looking south, and the view along prone sites for the Activity Centre, which is greater than

■■ Participants, in general, articulated that ‘high density’ Dawson Street looking north. For motorists, key views to the existing interim building height controls of 7.5m (two within the Activity Centre would not be supported, the Dandenong Ranges are available along the Burwood storeys). The proposed height limits provide scope for however some support was expressed for ‘medium Highway to the north, south and east travelling in both increased floor to ceiling heights on both the ground density’ including ‘shop top’ development. directions. floor level and upper level of buildings, which would enable retail or commercial uses on both levels. This will ■■ Most participants indicating that ‘low density’ The impact of future building heights on a number development was preferred in the Upper Gully residential of these views was tested through 3D modelling. This support business opportunities across the Activity Centre area. It should be noted that the meaning of high, testing demonstrated that a building height of three where for example, hospitality uses may be desirable on medium and low density development was not clearly storeys (12.0m) would significantly reduce views to the the upper level of buildings with outdoor decks that take defined by participants however low density generally Dandenong Ranges from many of the Key Public Realm advantage of views to the surrounding hills. referred to current development densities and building Viewline locations within the Activity Centre. Testing of a Generous floor to ceiling heights will allow for adaptable heights. two storey height (8.5m) did result in some reduction in designs and enable buildings to accommodate either views to the Dandenong Ranges, however there was still ■■ Concern was raised about the development of currently residential, retail or commercial uses over time. They vacant sites which would diminish views to the a strong dominance of the landscape setting. Therefore also allow a greater level of amenity for occupants by surrounding hills. For these sites reducing the visual in locations where Key Public Realm Viewlines exist, a allowing more light to enter the building, improved bulk of development was considered to be important. two-storey building height (8.5m) is recommended. natural ventilation and reduced heat gain. At the ground This scenario also demonstrated that the Royal Hotel level, generous floor to ceiling heights allow for improved with a height of approximately 12.5m will maintain its entrance design and a greater sense of openness for prominence as the tallest building and the focal point occupants, which is important for retail or restaurant uses. of the Activity Centre. There are also existing valued buildings such as Hahndorf’s Fine Chocolates where the building height is higher than 9m.

42 landscape along Dawson Street north looking to retain views and key Existing Image-Opportunity vistas to the surrounding flooding lessthanflooding adepthof0.4m (refer to19). Map that are affected by events flood to subject willbe event.(ARI) flood However, the majority ofproperties depth of0.6m in a100-year Average Recurrence Interval to to flooding a subject will be that someproperties contained inthe Consolidated shows Background Report heights withinthe Centre. Activity Flood level modelling Drainage isanother consideration key for building (refer to Figure 13Indicative Form Built Sections). and detailingand to extend beyond services the 8.5m The allow Guidelines for roof forms, architectural features Centre and better respond to the undulating land form. contribute to avisually inthe interesting Activity skyline articulated roof formssupports (refer 5). section This will oftheas part implementation ofthe Strategic Plan The Form Built for Guidelines the Centre Activity proposed occasional pitched roof form. a mixofsingleand doublestorey heights, and the This iscurrently provided inthe Centre Activity through preferredcommunity variation inthe buildingskyline. during the consultation phasesindicated that the determining the builtform recommendations. Feedback The provision ofroof forms hasalso considered been in the impacts on key viewsthe isnegligible. onkey impacts Given that these prone flood areas are low lyingpoints, level, shouldnewdevelopment proposed be onthissite. Centre land measured willbe 0.5m above natural ground (8.5m). For example, ofthe parts Ferntree Plaza Shopping risk offlooding, the maximumfor atwo storey building located 0.5m above the natural ground level dueto the example, ifthe level floor ofabuildingisrequired to be the level floor assetby the requirements. flooding For building height measured shouldbe from the height of The Strategic Plan recommends that the maximum 0.5m and 0.9m above the natural ground level. mean that the ground level floor may located be between affectedflood areas withinthe Centre, Activity thiswill located between 0.15 -0.3m above the level. flood For affectedflood areas by overland flow willneedto be Prone Areas’ that specify the levels floor ofbuildingsin Melbourne Water’s ‘Guidelines for Development inFlood- shows the desired setbacks across the Centre. Activity the prevailing landscape setbacks. Refer to 10which Map setbacks may desirable be to retain large trees orretain are locations across the Centre Activity where small front uses from the shopto ‘spill out’ onto the footpath. There more accessible, front windows more visibleand enabling withthe aspossible as best street, the by shops making no setback). This willreinforce ground usesengage floor thatimportant buildings are builtto footpath edges(i.e. of buildingsinthe Centre. Activity Inretail areas, itis Another consideration important isthe front setback reducefurther visual bulk. interesting also roofGuidelines support forms, whichwill individual rather structures than large forms. bulky The future buildingsonlarge sites are articulated to resemble FormBuilt (refer Guidelines 5)supports Design to Section large sites that could redeveloped be into the future. The intheimportant Centre, Activity asthere are of anumber was visual bulkoffuture builtform. This isparticularly issueraisedA key during consultation community phases Development principles. the buildingresponds to Environmentally Sustainable the street and adjoiningspaces and the extent to which level ofinternal amenity, how the buildingresponds to building withease, whether abuildingprovides ahigh and builtto last, whether can people access and usethe surroundings, whether the buildingisfitfor purpose These include how the buildingresponds to the site and how butalso abuildinglooks ofother anumber factors. Excellence inarchitectural quality isnotonlymeasured by excellence inarchitectural quality. that responds to the foothills settingwhilstpromoting to define an exciting for identity the Centre Activity parapets. This presents for newbuildings an opportunity descript withminimal detailinginfaçadesand simple buildings across the Centre Activity isgenerally non- InformationVisitors Centre) the and style character of historical Decobuildings(the Royal Art Hotel and the of the centre over aperiod oftime. than Other the across avariety the oferas reflecting incremental growth withintheBuildings Centre Activity have developed been Building designandsiting 43 Part 2 Part 1 Street level interface Environmentally Sustainable Development STRATEGIES Good design should not only focus on the architectural Buildings that incorporate Environmentally Sustainable S 3 .1 Capture the Upper Gully identity through style and form of a building, but more importantly the Development (ESD) bring many benefits. ESD buildings planning controls to support built form

Plan GullyUpper Strategic way the building presents and engages with the adjoining are more comfortable and healthy to inhabit and while in the Activity Centre that contributes to footpath at the ground level. There are many existing, there may be increased construction costs, there are also the experience of the foothills setting and positive building design elements across the Activity ongoing financial benefits through reduced running connection to the Dandenong Ranges. Centre that should be reflected in new development. costs and improved health of the occupants. In terms of broader community benefits, ESD buildings can reduce S3.2 Facilitate development that respects the The existing narrow shopfronts are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, power consumption, water desired streetscape character and foothills the positive street level experience. The narrow shopfronts usage and waste, and help to protect water quality. setting and contributes to a high quality public create visual interest through individual character and realm in the Activity Centre. provide for a greater diversity of uses and experiences. The Building Code of Australia provides some energy Future development of large sites should provide efficiency and water conservation measures that S 3 .3 Strengthen the street level retail dominance of articulation and tenancies at ground level to reinforce this development is required to meet. However, Council the Activity Centre and provide for office space positive and valuable element of the Activity Centre. believes that a more comprehensive approach to ESD and residential living in the upper storeys of is required and is currently developing a Local Planning new developments. Shopfronts along Burwood Highway that are open and Policy to implement ESD measures into the Planning engaging are also positive elements. The Strategic Plan Scheme. S 3 .4 Support built form in the Activity Centre that identifies all of the streets within the Activity Centre is safe and accessible to pedestrians of all where active frontages are required in order to provide abilities. for a continual flow of activity along the streets. These buildings will also provide verandahs over the footpath to provide shade and protection from the rain for pedestrians.

Refer to Built Form Guidelines in Section 5 for further recommendations on built form. 44 Map 10.Map Preferred Outcomes andDesign Setbacks for Built Form level experience by encouraging frontages active along pedestrian key routes and encouraging passive surveillance along pedestrian links. development and encouraging builtform publicrealm that defineskey viewlinesand prominent landmark sites. also aimsto It improve the street The plan aimsto enhance the ofthe identity Centre Activity by protecting historic and valued buildings, the respecting scale ofadjacent character and ofUpper Gully, identity aswell asitsrole indefiningthe street level experience. Centre. The importance ofbuiltform was identified through background research and consultation, community including itscontribution to the 10.Map Preferred and Setbacks Outcomes Design for Form, Built identifies preferred setbacksand designoutcomes for builtform inthe Activity PREFERRED SETBACKS AND DESIGN OUTCOMES FOR BUILT FORM

WILLOW RD WILLOW RD Willowbrooke Aged

Care Home WILLOWBROOKE AGED

CARE HOME CARE

MOUNT VIEW RD VIEW MOUNT MOUNT VIEW RD VIEW MOUNT setbacks to Dawson

Street (at 5m)south

BURWOOD HIGHWAY BURWOOD

Maintain frontMaintain

of Rose Streetof Rose BURWOOD HIGHWAY BURWOOD Anglican ANGLICAN ANGLICAN Church CHURCH RAILWAY STATION

Railway Station Visitors InformationVisitors Centre

Ferntree Plaza

SHOPPING Shopping FERNTREE

CENTRE Centre AVE RAILWAY PLAZA PLAZA spaces on StreetWilliam surveillance to open to facilitate passive Provide frontages INFORMATION

VISITORS

CENTRE RAILWAY AVE RAILWAY

DAWSONDAWSON ST ST

The Market Gully ROSE ST ROSE (weekends) Hotel Royal Royal HOTEL ROYAL

ROSE ST ROSE windows and habitablerooms interface along interface StreetWilliam Support alandscapedSupport active

addressing the street with WILLIAM ST

with future development WILLIAM ST Theatre THEATRE 1812

ALFRED ST 1812

ALFRED ST

WILLIAM ST BUILDING Building CFA DANDENONG RANGES DANDENONG RANGES CFA NATIONAL PARK front setbackto retain

existing canopy trees ROLLINGS RD Provide landscaped ROLLINGS RD KINDER Kinder

Upper Ferntree TALASKIA RD Gully PrimaryGully TALASKIA RD School 45 Part 2 Part 1 4.3.1 Built Form Sections Figure 13 provides potential development outcomes based on the Figure 14 compares a standard floor to ceiling height for a recommended building heights. The diagrams below shows that the overall residential use (2.4m) to a more generous floor to ceiling height height allows for generous floor to ceiling heights on both the ground and for a residential use (2.7m). The figure shows that additional upper levels. This will allow for flexibility and adaptability of uses in buildings sunlight will be provided to rooms if more generous floor to over time and also provide a high level of internal amenity. ceiling heights are provided.

Sunlight access for a standard 2.4m floor to ceiling height room Plan GullyUpper Strategic

Two storeys with a pitched roof Sun Angle - 12pm at the Winter Roof form may extend Solstice (June 22) beyond 8.5m maximum building height CEILING SPACE / SERVICES 0.9m Sun Angle - 12pm at the Equinox 2.7m 3.6m (September 22) RESIDENTIAL / OFFICE 8.1m CEILING SPACE / SERVICES 0.9m

4.5m RETAIL / RESTAURANT / 3.6m 2.4m OFFICE USES

1.6m CAR PARK / ROAD FOOTPATH BUILDING 8.5m maximum height to be measured from the floor level as 3.7m set by flooding requirements Sunlight access for a standard 2.7m floor to ceiling height room Sun Angle - 12pm at the Winter Two storeys with a flat roof Solstice (June 22) Sun Angle - 12pm at the Equinox Minimum 2.0m upper (September 22) level setback for CEILING SPACE / SERVICES 0.9m Dawson Street 2.7m 3.6m RESIDENTIAL / OFFICE 8.1m CEILING SPACE / SERVICES 0.9m 2.7m

RETAIL / RESTAURANT / 3.6m 4.5m OFFICE USES 1.8m 4.4m CAR PARK / ROAD FOOTPATH BUILDING 8.5m maximum height to be measured from the floor level as Figure 14. Floor to ceiling height analysis set by flooding requirements

46 Figure 13. Indicative Built Form Sections Figure 15. Proposed BuiltForm Illustration Highway -Burwood /Dawson Street View South-West 11.Map View Point 1Key Plan to the surrounding hills(refer 7.1.6 to Section ofthe Consolidated Background Report. properties, was developed for from the undertaken modelling Strategic Plan the to depict extent ofthe to views impact views across the Centre. Activity The proposed buildingheight of8.5m (two storeys) above freeboard for prone flood The following illustrations demonstrate the desired builtform ofthe including impact proposed buildingheights onkey 4.3.2

Built Form Photomontages Form Built

MOUNT VIEW RD VIEW MOUNT RAILWAY AVE RAILWAY

DAWSON ST ROSE ST ROSE VIEWPOINT 1

BURWOOD HIGHWAY 47 Part 2 Part 1 RAILWAY AVE

VIEWPOINT 2

BURWOOD HIGHWAY Plan GullyUpper Strategic

MOUNT VIEW RD

ROSE ST

DAWSON ST

Map 12. View Point 2 Key Plan

48 Figure 16. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Burwood Highway / Dawson Street View South-East

Figure 17. Proposed BuiltForm Illustration Highway -Burwood /RoseStreet View South 13.Map View Point 3Key Plan

MOUNT VIEW RD VIEW MOUNT RAILWAY AVE RAILWAY

DAWSON ST ROSE ST ROSE VIEWPOINT 3

BURWOOD HIGHWAY 49 Part 2 Part 1 RAILWAY AVE

BURWOOD HIGHWAY Plan GullyUpper Strategic

DAWSON ST ROSE ST MOUNT VIEW RD

VIEWPOINT 4 Map 14. View Point 4 Key Plan

50 Figure 18. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Dawson Street / Mount View Road View North-West (2m Upper Level Setbacks)

Figure 19. Proposed BuiltForm Illustration Highway southwest -Burwood looking 15.Map View Point 5Key Plan

MOUNT VIEW RD VIEW MOUNT RAILWAY AVE RAILWAY

DAWSON ST ROSE ST ROSE VIEWPOINT 5

BURWOOD HIGHWAY 51 Part 2 Part 1 RAILWAY AVE VIEWPOINT 6

BURWOOD HIGHWAY Plan GullyUpper Strategic

DAWSON ST ROSE ST MOUNT VIEW RD

Map 16. View Point 6 Key Plan

52 Figure 20. Proposed Built Form Illustration - Burwood Highway looking south east WHAT YOU’VE SAID ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ meet the needs of the community. that uses commercial land and retail tourism, health, including business, of growth the To enhance its role as an Centre, Activity support STRATEGIC 4 OBJECTIVE suggested. and provide more variety within the Activity Centre was The opportunity to provide incentives to fill empty shops apprenticeships. / employment Participants identified opportunities to create local identified. was complementary medical uses within the Activity Centre However, the need for aGeneral Practitioner and Hospital and being within close proximity to this facility. Participants valued the services offered at the Angliss / cafés and longer opening hours was expressed. shops and businesses however adesire for more eateries Participants were generally satisfied with the mix of local support services including short term accommodation. including short services support include additional specialist health, counselling, and family the role ofthe Hospital inthe region. Suchusescould these within the Centre, Activity and to support grow to provideopportunities suchas additional services from the closeproximity to Angliss Hospital. There are and practitioners whichleverage service community The ofallied anumber Centre health Activity supports development in the future. Highway. sites residential provide for These opportunities car and parks large sites located away from Burwood Strategic intensification and mixed use development. Secondary and provide greater for opportunities residential include larger sites located along Highway Burwood Primary Sites Strategic Development Opportunity withinthe Centre. Activity activity fromuses whichcurrently detract the vibrancy and include at grade car parks, car yards and other ‘inactive’ Sites’‘Strategic Development Opportunity (refer 17) Map for more intensive uses. These sites, referred to as edges ofthe core retail area, whichcould redeveloped be There are oflarge, anumber underutilised sites at the which buildonthe tourism potential ofUpper Gully. however for newretail, and entertainment hospitality uses retail and commercial uses. There are opportunities to marginal, be whichwilllimitthe demand for additional Population growth inUpper Ferntree isprojected Gully is general withthe satisfaction existing level ofservice. Feedback during the consultation phasessuggested there focused around Highway Burwood and Dawson Street. hospitality andbusiness services uses entertainment local needswithafulllinesupermarket, specialtyretail, The Centre Activity provides that meet alevel ofservice uses that activate the streets through the day and night. toA key asuccessful centre isto provide adiversity ofland KEY INFLUENCES are generally Sites are generally Development Opportunity .3 4 S .2 S4 .1 4 S STRATEGIES

of the Activity Centre.of theActivity required to increase patronageactivity thelocal Attract retail, commercial andnon-commercial opportunities. view to increasing patronage andemployment tourism useswitha andentertainment support Highway RoseStreet andBurwood particular to Develop Centre, oftheActivity thecapacity in health andtourism opportunities. term accommodationfacilitate short to support Develop Centre, oftheActivity thecapacity to 53 Part 2 Part 1 Map 17. Preferred Land Use Outcomes, identifies preferred land use outcomes for the Activity Centre, to provide for an active and vibrant centre. Opportunities to provide land uses that offer services and facilities for both local community and visitor needs, as well as redevelopment opportunities, were identified through background research, community engagement and technical research undertaken for this project. The Strategic Plan aims to improve the vibrancy of Upper Gully by encouraging a mix of uses that activate the Activity Centre, both during the day and at night and that cater for locals and visitors. It also aims to improve the street level experience by encouraging the redevelopment of key sites (Strategic Development Opportunity Sites) within the Activity Centre. These key sites were identified as part of the Upper Gully Strategic Plan Technical Report - Land Use and Economics (Urban Enterprise 2014). Plan GullyUpper Strategic PREFERRED LAND USE OUTCOMES

RAILWAY AVE DANDENONG RANGES NATIONAL PARK RAILWAY STATION

VISITORS CFA INFORMATION BUILDING CENTRE WILLOW RD BURWOOD HIGHWAY

KINDER

1812 FERNTREE PLAZA THEATRE WILLIAM ST MOUNT VIEW RD SHOPPING CENTRE ANGLICAN CHURCH ROSE ST

DAWSON ST

WILLOWBROOKE AGED CARE HOME ALFRED ST TALASKIA RD

UPPER FERNTREE GULLY PRIMARY ROLLINGS RD SCHOOL WILLIAM ST

Provide medium density Support land uses that Support the redevelop Support land uses within Support entertainment Support the housing and shop top activate the Activity of underutilised sites the centre and along key and dining uses within redevelopment within the Activity Centre, Centre during the day for retail, commercial, pedestrian routes that Rose Street to increase of sites within the to enhance activity and at night. residential and mixed provide for the activation activity and complement Activity Centre for and provide housing use development with of the streets. the 1812 Theatre. tourism uses and diversity. active street frontages. health services. Map 17. Preferred Land Use Outcomes 54 WHAT YOU’VE SAID ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ the Centre. Activity in available opportunities housing sustainable increase intergenerational of the range and changing of the structures, needs household To enable people to age in place and meet STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 5 surrounding residential areas should maintained. be Predominant detached dwelling housing the in services are considered. impacts on parking and access to public transport and interfere with the ‘shop atmosphere’ and matters such as was generally supported on the condition that it doesn’t Opportunities for diverse housing in the Activity Centre Gully. Upper families in their housing for available affordable of Participants identified alack of housing options and lack can adapted easilybe for changing needs. are configured withgenerous circulation areas and rooms regardless ofageand physical capability, internal spaces principles requires housingthat isaccessible by all need for majoradaptation orspecialised design. Such usedbybe over mostpeople their lifetime withoutthe to adoptuniversal designprinciples sothat homescan for important willbe newhousingintheIt Centre Activity withinmixed usedevelopments.opportunities of the Centre Activity provide significant housing the action. Large, underutilised sites at the periphery age inplace and to enablespeople live and work amongst andapartments shoptop housingthat to enablepeople The Strategic suchas Plan housingtypes supports shops, services, publictransport and space. open for arange withinclose proximity ofhousingtypes to however, to suchcontrols isnotsubject and could provide of detached dwellings onlarge lots. The Centre, Activity diversity and aimto preserve the predominant character residential for areas increased limitopportunities housing Current planning controls appliedto surrounding located, closeto transport options, shopsand services. housingdevelopment inlocations whicharesupports well in terms ofsize, type, affordability and and accessibility strategic for direction greater diversity ofhousingtypes diverse and changing needsofhousing. provides It The Knox Strategy Housing the 2015acknowledges those wanting to ageinplace. create aneedfor housingdesignto better respond to demand for avariety and inUpper Gully ofhousingtypes dependent householdsalso increasing. This willcreate and the and ofloneperson proportion couples without the over ofpeople proportion 70years inageincreasing the ageprofile and willchange, householdstructure with Ferntree isforecast Gully to marginal be (0.41% increase), Although population growth withinthe suburbofUpper KEY INFLUENCES .1 5 S STRATEGIES enables people toenables people live and work amongstthe action. CentreActivity that to enablespeople agein place and and suchasapartments types shoptop housing inthe Example Image- The Strategic Plan housing supports S5.2

population. CentreActivity to accommodate achanging diverse housingchoicesSupport inthe the development industry. CentreActivity withkey stakeholders including intergenerational housingoptionsinthe development ofagreater diversity of Advocate for theinvestment inand 55 Part 2 Part 1 KEY INFLUENCES STRATEGIES STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 6 Social and community facilities including schools are focal S 6 .1 Develop the capacity of the Activity Centre, To meet the changing needs of the community points for localities such as Upper Gully, providing places to support social and community services for people to engage, learn and socialise. Community over time, provide high quality, localised social demands to meet the existing and future needs facilities within Upper Gully are generally located around of the local community. and community infrastructure that delivers a Talaskia Road and Kings Park. Coonara Community House range of services. is located within Kings Park and provides a range of S6 .2 Enhance existing community facilities to learning and community services. There are current plans provide contemporary ‘fit for purpose’ services

Plan GullyUpper Strategic WHAT YOU’VE SAID for its expansion to cater for additional services. for the existing and future residents of Upper Gully. ■■ A variety of comments were received during consultation Wally Tew Reserve is located approximately 1.6km west in relation to community and health facilities. A key point of the Activity Centre and includes a number of regional of discussion was the need to provide safe and accessible community facilities and services that are used by footpaths to community facilities throughout Upper residents of Upper Gully. Key facilities include a library, Gully. the Ferntree Gully Community Arts Centre as well as facilities such as the Placemakers Shed and Woodworkers ■■ Participants identified the need to invest in retaining and providing family friendly facilities including learning Shed that provide studio and workshop spaces for people. programs, preschools, kinder and health centres to It will be important for social and community attract young families to the area. infrastructure and services to not only meet the existing needs of the community, but also be able to adapt to ■■ The opportunity to make Upper Gully kid safe, and provide places for kids to go was identified. the changing population profile of Upper Gully. The Strategic Plan recommends that additional research is ■ Some participants recognised that the aging population ■ undertaken to investigate these aspects. This research with a limited ability to travel, may require greater levels should also focus on how people get to and from facilities, of health care. which was identified as a key issue during the community consultation phases.

Existing Image - The Strategic Plan recommends a review of existing community facilities, including education service provisions within Upper Gully (in association with the 56 appropriate government agencies) to capitalise on existing services. This may include Coonara House (above). WHAT YOU’VE SAID ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ a greater share of the passing tourism market. gateway to the Dandenong Ranges capture and To strengthen Upper Gully’s tourism brand as a STRATEGIC 7 OBJECTIVE market, were also identified. market. Other market including opportunities farmers a increased and diverse stall holders and promoting the revitalisingfor Market included encouraging Gully The many felt it was in need of revitalisation. Some ideas asset potentially and providing attraction an tourists, for While The Gully Market was noted as being avalued events, shops.and eateries additional boutique and crafts, emphasising historical promoting links, activities through traders a associations, and developing arts Dandenongs was suggested. This could be achieved The opportunity to capitalise on passing tourists to the support. and recreation with the right amount of infrastructure Participants recognised the need to encourage tourism co-ordinated signage. through distinctive planting, and publicart paving, and and focus oncreating astrong brand for the centre Future streetscape works shouldconsider thisdirection, the edgeofthe suburbs and the Dandenong Foothills. planting to express the landscape transition between Highway asa ‘Path to the Hills’, withextensive native Scheme identifies the ofthe section Upper Gully Burwood enjoy the shops. Clause 21.04 ofthe Knox Planning movements and donotencourage to people stop and in the Centre Activity are generally dominated by vehicle standard highway planting. Inaddition, the streetscapes on the side, northern mixed and signage, derelict and this gateway withthe railway unkempt station grounds The Highway Burwood Streetscape littleto does enhance arrival experience into the Dandenong Ranges. develop the Centre Activity asasignificant ofthe part is potential to economically benefit from thislocation and of the arrival experience to the Dandenong Ranges. There the location for the InformationVisitors Centre and ispart before entering into the Dandenong Ranges. provides It The Centre Activity isthe last centre passthrough people passing trade from visitors to the National Park. Centre to economically benefit by capturing someofthe relatively low. forThere the Activity isamajoropportunity and spend timeinthe Centre Activity isconsidered to be through Upper Gully, the oftourists numbers that stop Although there are significant oftourists numbers passing growing significantly initspopularity. Ranges National Park isamajortourist whichis attraction annually. The 1,000Steps at the nearby Dandenong Yarra Valley, approximately attract 350,000tourists and the nearby National Park, whichtogether withthe influenced by itsrelationship to the Dandenong Ranges Upper Gully’s history, character and issignificantly identity KEY INFLUENCES 7.3 S S7.2 7.1 S STRATEGIES visit, where somethingisalways happening. Centre to builditsreputation asan interesting place to development ofthe and arts inthe culture sector Activity events including revitalising The and Market Gully the boosted through further be additional hospitality uses, shopping strip. The tourism role would ofUpper Gully restaurants and located cafés along Highway the Burwood the 1812 Theatre Street inRose and asmall of number Saturday and Sunday inthe railway station car park, tourism related uses, suchas The held Market Gully every The Centre Activity currently includes of anumber

Ranges’. desired brand ‘Gateway to the Dandenong Station and The Market) Gully to reinforce the Hotel, Visitors Information Centre, Railway Highwayproposed Burwood foot bridge, Royal Provide builtform (e.g. andlandscaping the Dandenong Ranges’. order to strengthen itsbrand asa ‘Gateway to Promote Centre theActivity asadestination in andculture options. and arts entertainment Centre by increasing ofhospitality, thenumber to patroniseDandenong Ranges theActivity ofvisitors toIncrease the theproportion 57 Part 2 Part 1 Map 18. The Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station and Visitors Information Centre Improvements Plan (Conceptual), identifies outlines potential improvements to the Visitors Information Centre and adjoining spaces. Although this land is managed by VicTrack and Yarra Ranges Tourism, Council can advocate for its improvement to enhance Plan GullyUpper Strategic the tourism role of the Activity Centre and Upper Gully. The plan has incorporated key principles aimed to improve visibility and access to the Visitors Information Centre, upgrade the railway station to a ‘public transport hub’ and improve access and the amenity provided by the adjoining spaces.

RAILWAY STATION & VISITORS INFORMATION CENTRE Provide pedestrian priority crossing IMPROVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES PLAN between the railway station / bus stops (public transport hub) and RAILWAY the Visitors Information Centre. STATION STEEP EXISTING EMBANKMENT Provide a pedestrian plaza space BUS STOP adjacent to the Visitors Information EXISTING Centre and bus stops to create a CAR PARKS welcoming environment for people. CAR PARK Provide direct access from car park to Visitors Information Centre. EXISTING Disability Discrimination Act BUS STOP compliant access will be provided CAR PARK via the existing station entry from Dawson Street / Burwood Highway.

Upgrade existing non-Disability Discrimination Act compliant ramp RECONFIGURED and provide additional landscaping CAR PARK AREA VISITORS and an elevated outdoor deck INFORMATION that reflects the character of the Dandenongs. CENTRE SERVICE AREA Provide pedestrian path along the northern side of the Burwood Highway.

Discourage pedestrian crossing between Information Centre and Maxi Foods.

SCALE: NTS BURWOOD HIGHWAY 58 0 1 2 3 4 5 10m Provide footpath along the northern edge of the car park. Map 18. Railway Station & Visitors Information Centre Improvement Opportunities WHAT YOU’VE SAID ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ history, arts and culture. and arts history, distinctive Gully’s Upper promoting legacy, To strengthen the community’s valued local STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 8 around key dates such as Christmas. activities within the Activity Centre, particularly focused Participants expressed adesire for more events and realm was identified as akey aspiration of participants. The opportunity to incorporate public in the art public from younger community members. there is the potential to encourage greater involvement that the profile of the theatre participants was aging and the Activity Centre by participants. It was noted however, The 1812 Theatre was identified as avalued asset within identified. these buildings and features i.e. historical boards was The opportunity to promote the historical relevance of Visitors Information Centre as important historic assets. Participants frequently identified the Royal Hotel and the Upper Gully. through interpretation and education to tell of the story are to celebrate also opportunities these heritage places buildings for the enjoyment offuture generations. There The Strategic Plan the retention supports ofthese place Park. located withinKings Coonara Community isanother House valued heritage building. 12 Mount asalocally Road significantView historical Anglican Church, whichabutsthe Centre Activity at buildings. The assessment also identified St Thomas which confirmed the heritage significance ofthese valued A heritage assessment was subsequently coordinated, valued buildingsofhistoric significance for Upper Gully. Ferntree Railway Gully Station were also identified as (managed by Yarra Ranges Tourism), and the Upper consultationcommunity the InformationVisitors Centre a heritage overlay thisplace. appliedto conserve During CentreActivity are limited to the Royal Hotel, whichhas Formally recognised cultural heritage places withinthe activity. sensitivity, and all, isahigh ofthe orpart activity impact the isinan proposed area activity ofculture heritage Heritage Management Plan isrequired ifall of orpart Report). Under the Aboriginal Heritage 2006aCultural Act 8.2section Heritage inthe Consolidated Background the Centre, Activity Highway southofBurwood (refer to Areas ofCultural identifies HeritageMapping Sensitivity buildings and indigenous heritage places. place. Heritage can include cultural heritage places i.e. enrich acommunity’s appreciation and experience ofa and authentic, provides to the aconnection pastand can valuedidentity by residents inUpper Gully. isunique It Heritage isan oflocal character aspect important and Heritage KEY INFLUENCES .3 8 S S8.2 .1 8 S STRATEGIES the Centre. Activity exciting and relevant into publicart future projects across pride.community exist to incorporate Opportunities adds vitality, visual interest to aplace and can enhance history, ofUpper Gully aspect islimited. Public art Ranges. Despite this, and publicart reference to this the region, particularly associated withthe Dandenong and alsoUpper Gully ofart hasastrong history in artists community. andits function enhance itscontribution withinthe is agingand there to complement may opportunities be highly valued facility, the profile oftheatre participants providing alocal focal point. While the 1812 Theatre isa and arts active culture withthe community 1812 Theatre and difference withinthe community. hasan Upper Gully to accept,opportunities appreciate and diversity respect innovation withinthe community. They also enable andArts culture provide outletsfor imagination and andCultureArts

construction standards in the Activity Centre standardsconstruction intheActivity to achieve thedesired and designquality heritage orbuilt form characterqualities buildings andspaces valued that respects thedesignofnew ormodified Support identity. public spaces to enhance Upper Gully’s distinct the artistic, cultural andhistorical presence in futureManage changeinaway that improves character, cultural andbuiltheritage. through theenhancement ofitslandscape Reinforce Upper Gully’s strong identity local 59 Part 2 Part 1 1. KEY INFLUENCES bordering forest, the hilly terrain, a lack of accessibility STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 9 Upper Gully’s natural environment and location at with narrow dead-end roads and homes nestled into the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges is a significant bushland. To manage the risk to people, property and the contributor to the threat of a natural hazard occurring. The Community Information Guide also states that there environment from adverse impacts of natural Key risks include flooding, landslip and bushfire. are no designated ‘Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of hazards, including bushfire from the surrounding Flooding Last Resort’ in Upper Ferntree Gully or Ferntree Gully. area, flood from overland flow and mainstream flooding and landslip in designated landslip The presence of a number of waterways, its location It is currently unlikely that a refuge area will be provided within Upper Gully given its status and topography and its Plan GullyUpper Strategic areas. within a valley surrounded by steep hills and existing drainage capacity issues means that parts of Upper Gully close proximity to places not at risk of bushfire. Travelling are at risk of flooding. Based on existing flood mapping on roads in the area during a bushfire is dangerous. WHAT YOU’VE SAID from Melbourne Water, the majority of properties within The Community Information Guide provides important the Activity Centre are located within areas affected by community bushfire safety information to guide the ■■ Participants highlighted concerns about flooding a 100-year Average Recurrence Interval (ARI) flood, with community to make informed decisions during a bushfire within Upper Gully, particularly sheet flooding (from the event. adjacent hills) and flooding along Burwood Highway. flood depths of up to 0.6m on private property (refer to Map 19 overleaf). This presents implications for future A Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) applies to the ■ Community consultation events also highlighted ■ development across the Activity Centre and is addressed Activity Centre, north of Burwood Highway (refer to awareness and concern regarding the risks of future in the Built Form Guidelines (refer to Section 5). section 4.3.4 Overlays in the Consolidated Background bushfires, particularly given recent fire events in the Report). This overlay requires future development to area. In addition to development control for private land, improvements can also be made to the existing provide adequate bushfire protection measures. Bushfire ■■ Participants expressed concerns regarding the provision protection measures are also required as part of the of accessible evacuation routes as roads are heavily waterways and drainage infrastructure to require that the impacts of future flood events are minimised and Building Amendment (Bushfire Construction) Regulations congested and the lack of a fire refuge area within Upper 2011 to for future development within a ‘Bushfire Prone Gully. development in the Upper Gully is less constrained by the risk of flooding. This could include additional flood Areas’. ‘Bushfire Prone Areas’ (refer to section 7.9 Natural Hazards in the Consolidated Background Report) apply to ■■ The closure of the Burwood Highway during the 2009 storage capacity in public land so that the impact on bushfires was identified as key issue as there were no downstream properties is reduced. a greater area within the Activity Centre (compared to the other suitable evacuation routes. BMO) and include land north of Rose Street. Landslip STRATEGIES A significant proportion of Upper Ferntree Gully is identified as being at risk of landslip (generally moderate S9.1 Manage the risk of bushfire, flood and landslip to high risk (refer to section 7.9 Natural Hazards in the when making decisions about development and Consolidated Background Report). This risk is associated works. with the sloped topography, soil types and the scale and nature of development. As the scale and nature of S9.2 Support Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) development is generally low, the building permit process in development, land use practices and is appropriate to manage any risk of landslip in Upper associated works. Gully. Bushfire The CFA’s Upper Ferntree Gully and Ferntree Gully Community Information Guide identifies an ‘extreme’ bushfire risk for both communities (refer to Section 7.9 Natural Hazards in the Consolidated Background Report). 60 This classification is based on high fuel loads in the Map 19.Map 100-Year Flood (Melbourne Depths ARI Water) Centre -Activity 100-YEAR ARI FLOOD DEPTHS (MELBOURNE WATER) -ACTIVITY CENTRE 61 Part 2 Part 1 Plan GullyUpper Strategic

62 WHAT YOU’VE SAID ■ ■ ■ ■ management Gully. Upper of partner with the community in the planning and To strengthen custodianship leadership and and STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 10 families, residents older the and local hospital. other demographics to be engaged including young Strategic Plan process and suggested opportunities for engagement opportunities offered as of part the Participants also noted that they appreciated the collection the and differences planning policies. between included drainage concerns, frequency rubbish of with being on the boundary of two Councils. This Participants identified anumber of challenges associated landholders inUpper Gully. agencies including andVicRoads VicTrack asmajor There withstate to are partner uniqueopportunities are considered. appropriately managed and local aspirations community ensure projects can resourced be and delivered, places are borders and to relevant State Government agencies to Future engagement shouldalso extend across municipal Plan and infuture projects withinUpper Gully. local community, inthe both finalisation ofthe Strategic The Strategic Plan the future engagement supports ofthe and would to involved be like infuture decisionmaking. the local have community astrong interest inlocal issues feedback received during consultation demonstrated that Attendance at the Plan Upper Gully workshops and between Councilopportunities and the community. existing places and spaces, and can help foster partnership aspirations, offers newinterpretations and ideasfor involvement provides an understanding oflocal through the project process. For Council, community play, and understand what can realistically delivered be Centre, provide understanding adeeper ofthe issuesat influence the future planning and designofthe Activity For the community, involvement to enablespeople for the both and community Council. revitalisation ofthe Centre Activity haspotential benefits Involving the inthe community future planning and KEY INFLUENCES S10.3 S10.2 S10.1 STRATEGIES implementation ofstrategies outlinedinthe Strategic Plan. increased and participation community leadershipto the (pictured).community The Strategic Plan supports Strategic Plan process were appreciated by the offered ofthe as part Engagement opportunities Upper Gully. stakeholders to deliver within future projects relevant State Government agenciesandkey Facilitate alliances between Knox Council, City Upper Gully. provide inthefuture of effective partnership by adedicatedsupported place manager, to Create a ‘Stakeholder Group’ Advisory , strategies outlinedintheStrategic Plan. delivery approach to theimplementation of leadership by employing a ‘place based’ and Increase community participation 63 Part 2 Part 1 5. BUILT FORM GUIDELINES

5.1 Overview Siting and Setbacks Internal Amenity Built Form Guidelines have been prepared for the Activity This element addresses the desired setbacks and siting This element provides guidance on the design of internal Centre to support future development that contributes to requirements for development across the Activity Centre. spaces within buildings.

Plan GullyUpper Strategic the character of the Activity Centre, provide a high level The recommended setbacks focus on reinforcing the A key focus for this element is ensuring that access to of amenity for visitors, employees and neighbours, and to street edge with built form to provide for a strong sunlight and natural ventilation is maximised to provide set benchmarks in design quality. The Guidelines inform presence of activity along streets in the Activity Centre. high amenity spaces for occupants and reduce energy the proposed development of a Design and Development This will be achieved through zero front and side setbacks consumption. Overlay and Local Planning Policy for the Activity Centre. across the majority of the Activity Centre. Internal amenity will also be improved by the proposed The setbacks also address the transition to adjoining floor to ceiling heights covered in the Building Height DESIGN ELEMENTS residential areas. For these areas, it is recommended element. These design elements also consider the need Building Height that the side and rear setback standard for Clause 55 of to balance the economic viability of development, while ResCode are adopted as well as the overshadowing and achieving adaptable building design. This element addresses the height of buildings, and overlooking standards (Standards B17, B21 and B22). This Importantly, the design of buildings and development requirements for floor to ceiling level requirements. will preserve residential amenity. is to have regard for adjoining sites, including the A key driver for determining building heights is retaining Building Design development potential of adjoining sites and the ability key views to the Dandenong Ranges from within the for future development to achieve reasonable amenity This element provides guidance on façade articulation, Activity Centre. This has resulted in a maximum height and design outcomes. of 8.5m (two storeys) and 12.0m (three storeys) above roof forms, the street level interface, materials and colours, natural ground level or above 100-year ARI flood floor and environmentally sustainable design. Services and Access levels where applicable (refer to Map 19). Given that The Guidelines in this section focus on ensuring built This element addresses the treatment of services, vehicle these flood prone areas are low lying, the impacts on form is responsive to the existing streetscape and foothills access and car parking in developments. key views are negligible. The strategic justification for character through reducing visual bulk, fine-grain façade The Guidelines focus on minimising the visibility of the the proposed building height is further described under articulation, varied roof forms and the use of materials and servicing aspects of buildings i.e. air conditioning units, Strategic Objective 3 and in the Consolidated Background colours that integrate with the foothills landscape. Report. waste storage etc. The Guidelines also recommend For larger sites, the Guidelines recommend that fine reducing the visibility of car parking and vehicle access so The Guidelines set out minimum floor to floor and floor grain articulation of façades is provided to support this that it does not dominate the streetscape. to ceiling heights for buildings. For retail and restaurant valued characteristic of the existing shops is continued. Pedestrian access is also addressed in this section with a uses, the floor heights support a greater sense of Articulated roof forms are supported on large sites to focus on providing clearly defined access for people of all openness and higher level of amenity for occupants. For reduce the visual bulk of buildings. residential and other uses, the floor heights will create a levels of mobility. high level of internal amenity for occupants. This element also addresses opportunities for designing buildings for universal access and opportunities to The Guidelines also recommend that all ground floors incorporated best practice Environmentally Sustainable across the Activity Centre should have a minimum floor to Development in buildings and landscaping. floor dimension of 4.5m. This will require buildings to be adaptable to support a variety of uses over time.

64 so that off-site impacts areso that off-site impacts minimised. recommendations for management ofstormwater onsite The also provide guidelinesinthissection level.flood by providing levels floor at asuitableheight above the development willneedto respond to constraints flooding of upto 0.6m ina100-year event. ARIflood Future Centre withsomeareas to depths flooding subject Flood inundation consideration isakey inthe Activity stormwater treatment. relation to constraints flooding inthe Centre Activity and This element addresses the builtform response in Stormwater andFlood Management Centre. verandahs to facilitate consistency across the Activity Additional guidance isprovided onthe designof Centre that isapleasant place to enjoy. and protection from the rain. This willcreate an Activity verandahs are required to provide shadefor pedestrians The identify Guidelines the primary retail areas where verandahs for shopfronts across the Centre. Activity This element provides guidance onthe provision of Weather Protection dominate the streetscape. is integrated withthe designofthe buildingand not does driverA key for signagethat the guidelinesisto support across the Centre. Activity This element addresses the designand location ofsignage Signage Centre. strengthen the valued landscape settinginthe Activity designed to retain existing trees where possible. This will The guidelinesaimto facilitate development that is developments withinthe Centre. Activity This element provides guidance onlandscaping innew Landscaping phases. assessment and through the consultation community are identified asvalued buildingsthrough the Heritage Centre and Upper Ferntree Railway Gully Station, which The also considers section the InformationVisitors the significance ofthe heritage building. development to respect onadjoiningsites isundertaken aim to require alterations to thisheritage buildingand Heritage Overlay, the being Royal Hotel. The Guidelines The Centre Activity contains onebuildingcovered by a Heritage andBuiltForm Character Avoid -Examplesofunsuitabledesignresponses. demonstrated to Council’s satisfaction. approaches for achieving the relevant may objective(s) be achieving the relevant designelement objective(s). Other response - Design The preferred approaches for relevant designelement. Objectives -Astatement ofthe desired outcome for the Centre.Activity built form character and development outcomes in the Element -IndividualDesign elements that influence the below: outcomes to achieve for designelements asdescribed key Table 2overleaf, includes objectives, designresponses and BUILT FORM GUIDELINES STRUCTURE 65 Part 2 Part 1 5.2 Built Form Guidelines Table 2 – Built Form Guidelines

DESIGN OBJECTIVE DESIGN RESPONSE AVOID

BUILDING HEIGHT

■■ To provide building heights that ■■ Buildings must be no more than 8.5m (two storey) or 12.0m (three storey) above natural ■■ Buildings that dominate the streetscape respond to the predominant low ground levels (refer Map 10). Subject to meeting all design objectives allowance may and obscure views to the Dandenong

Plan GullyUpper Strategic scale of built form in the area. be allowed for roof forms, architectural features, detailing for decorative purposes and Ranges. service. ■■ To provide buildings that maintain ■■ Low floor to ceiling heights that provide views to the surrounding ■■ Where buildings are located within a floodplain or overland flow path, the maximum low amenity and limit opportunities for Dandenong Ranges. building height of 8.5m (two storey) or 12.0m (three storey) is to be measured from the adaptive re-use of buildings. minimum flood floor levels. ■■ To support buildings that respect ■■ Additional ceiling height or roof space the valued foothills setting. ■■ The following minimum floor to floor and finished floor level (FFL) to finished floor to used for additional storeys or mezzanine ceiling level (FCL) dimensions should apply (refer to diagrams below): levels. ■■ To support the adaptive re-use of buildings. Retail or restaurant use ■■ Building and structures impeding flood flows or at risk of flooding in a 100-year ■■ To support business including ¯¯ 4.5m floor to floor height entertainment and tourism ARI flood. ¯¯ 3.6m FFL to FCL function of the Activity Centre. Residential Use ■■ To provide improved internal environmental quality. ¯¯ 3.6m floor to floor height

¯¯ 2.7m FFL to FCL Any other use

¯¯ 3.6m floor to floor height

¯¯ 2.7m FFL to FCL

■■ Ground floors should be developed with a minimum floor to floor dimension of 4.5m at ground level and 3.6m at second and third levels to enable adaptation to a variety of uses. Refer to the Minimum floor to floor and FFL to FCL diagram below. Minimum floor to floor and FFL to FCL diagram Two storey building CEILING SPACE / SERVICES 0.9m

3.6m RESIDENTIAL / OTHER 2.7m

CEILING SPACE / SERVICES 0.9m GROUND LEVEL USE - RETAIL / RESTAURANT / 3.6m 4.5m OTHER

FOOTPATH BUILDING

66 SITING ANDSETBACKS DESIGN OBJECTIVE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ foothills setting. foothills and buildings residential existing development of the on amenity To manage the impact of Centre. Activity key pedestrian routes of the alongstrong presence activity of To provide buildings that have a appropriate. to retain canopy trees, where To provide buildings that are sited Primary ActiveFrontageAreas Secondary ActiveFrontageAreas Residential Interface Primary andSecondaryLandscapedActiveFrontageSetbackAreas DESIGN RESPONSE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ and established vegetation. established and Buildings should sited be to accommodate the retention and/or planting of canopy trees in Map 10. site) to William Street (part), and pedestrian links as identified views to customer areas, service which are to located be at the street frontage of the Zero front and side setbacks with active and engaging frontages (including clear Upper level articulation with aminimum setback of 2m for all three storey properties. the eastern side of Dawson Street of Rose north Street, as identified in Map 10. Upper level articulation with aminimum setback of 2m for storey two properties along Active frontages should not obscured be by high or opaque fencing. in Map 10. Highway,Burwood Rose Street, Dawson Street (part) and pedestrian links as identified to customer areas, service which are to located be at the street frontage of the site) to Zero front and side setbacks with active and engaging frontages (including clear views Clause 55 (ResCode) for side and rear setback, overlooking and overshadowing. area (refer Map 10), development should respond to Standard B17, B21, and B22 of Where adevelopment abuts an established residential area in aresidential or property outbuildings. Street setback areas should free be of structures such as rainwater and tanks exception of driveways and pathways. The street setback should landscaped be with permeable surfaces and plants with the Street setbacks should aminimum be of 3m or 5m as identified in Map 10. Active frontages should not obscured be by high or opaque fencing. ■ ■ ■ AVOID ■ ■ ■ and Secondary Active Frontage Areas. Parking within front setbacks in Primary Dandenong Ranges. the streetscape and impede views to the that dominate buildings of siting The character. respect the preferred general streetscape The siting of buildings that does not 67 Part 2 Part 1 DESIGN OBJECTIVE DESIGN RESPONSE AVOID

BUILDING DESIGN

■■ To support new buildings to ■■ Development on key corner sites should emphasise the corner through façade ■■ Large building masses that dominate the demonstrate a high architectural articulation and roof form. streetscape. standard that responds to the ■■ Buildings on corner sites should be designed to actively address both frontages at street ■■ Excessive use of flat and unarticulated roof local setting. level. forms.

Plan GullyUpper Strategic ■■ To support development that ■■ The prominence of the Landmark Arrival Site at 1288 Burwood Highway be provided ■■ Blank, unarticulated façades along key contributes positively to the through building and site design to address the eastern approach into the Activity pedestrian streets. streetscape through the use of Centre. innovative architectural responses ■■ Unarticulated or non-textured, sheer and by presenting visually ■■ Articulate the form and façades of buildings through the use of different colours and façades and building forms. materials, and through the composition of rebates, openings and setbacks. interesting façades to the street. ■■ Bulky upper levels that obscure views to ■ Upper level setbacks on Dawson Street and three storey buildings should be a minimum Dandenong Ranges (refer to Map 10). ■ To support and maintain views ■ ■ of 2m with articulated façades allowing for rebates and façade effects, in order to at key public realm viewlines and ■■ Excessive use of colours that contrast activity centre arrival views (refer ameliorate visual building bulk and provide for variation in streetscape built form (refer strongly with the vegetation. Map 10). Map 10). ■■ Highly reflective glazing and roofing ■■ Provide vertical articulation to visually break up the appearance of building frontages on ■■ To reinforce the existing pattern materials. of fine-grain shopfronts across the wider allotments and reflect the existing pattern of fine-grain shopfronts. This vertical ■ Overuse of heavy looking materials such Activity Centre. articulation should reflect the standard width of shopfronts (5-7m). Refer to diagram ■ below: as brick. ■ To support roof forms that ■ Vertical articulation on wider allotments contribute to creating an appealing and varied skyline.

■■ To provide buildings within the Primary Active Frontage Areas that are designed to create an active and engaging street frontage (refer to Map 10).

■■ To support buildings which visually complement the features of the surrounding foothills EXISTING BUILDINGS NEW BUILDING ON WIDER EXISTING BUILDINGS environment. ALLOTMENT

■■ To support housing components of developments to be designed ■■ Provide roof forms that vary in form and reflect the ridgeline of the Dandenong Ranges. to provide universal access at the ■ Roof forms should be integrated with the overall building façade design. ground floor and can be easily ■

adapted for a range of users at its ■■ On larger buildings, articulate or divide roof forms into distinct sections in order to entrances and internally. minimise visual bulk and respond to the roof proportions of existing buildings.

■ ■■ To provide best practice ■ Where Primary Active Frontages are identified (refer to Map 10), buildings should Environmentally Sustainable provide pedestrian interest and interaction with a permeable façade incorporating Design. windows and door openings with clear glazing. Refer to diagram overleaf. 68 BUILDING DESIGNCONTINUED DESIGN OBJECTIVE DESIGN RESPONSE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Ranges. or balconies that overlook the public realm and capture views towards the Dandenong Upper levels of buildings should designed be to provide habitable rooms with windows landscaping or other forms of graffiti control.landscaping other or graffiti formsof External walls which may vulnerable be should to graffiti incorporate vertical adaptable. to be are designed spaces building Internal assessment process. Refer to Council’s policies and guidelines for sustainability in the planning permit / of green walls and roofs where possible and feasible, and use of sustainable materials. Development (ESD) such as designing passive incorporation design, for principles, solar New buildings are to incorporate bestpractice Environmentally Sustainable theDesign housing components to incorporate Universal Housing principles. Design materialsUse glazing and roofing low of reflectivity. foothills. the mutedSupport tones, finishes and colours that contribute to the landscape setting of over time with the landscape should also considered. be including timber, render, glazing, stone, and brick, iron roofing. Materials that weather Use amix of contemporary and traditional natural materials, textures and finishes Primary ActivePrimary Frontages -Ground level interface AVOID 69 Part 2 Part 1 DESIGN OBJECTIVE DESIGN RESPONSE AVOID

INTERNAL AMENITY

■■ To provide a high level of internal ■■ Natural ventilation should be provided to all habitable spaces. ■■ Low amenity internal spaces amenity in new buildings. ■■ Habitable rooms should have a window facing an outdoor space open to the sky. ■■ Additional ceiling height must not be used for additional storeys or mezzanine levels. ■■ Buildings with sunlight access to both sides should have a maximum depth of 22m to enable adequate sunlight to habitable rooms. Plan GullyUpper Strategic Maximum building depths for buildings with sunlight to both sides

MAX. DEPTH 22m

SUNLIGHT

■■ Orientate buildings and position windows, awnings and shutters to capture solar access in winter and provide appropriate shading in summer.

■■ Include appropriate and fit for purpose noise attenuation measures in habitable rooms, considering adaptable building design outcomes, to the satisfaction of the responsible authority, where new dwellings are constructed on the Burwood Highway.

70 SERVICES ANDACCESS DESIGN OBJECTIVE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ surveillance. passive entrance and walkability to improve Links Pedestrian To Centre provide Activity character. streetscape affect street that so it does not adversely car parking and access from the To minimise the visual impact of view.public developments and screened from incorporated into the design of To provide site services that are experience. theand pedestrian to improve walkability prioritised paths and walkways to be Pedestrian points, entry access, DESIGN RESPONSE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ should be incorporated where be necessary.should from the public realm. Appropriate and innovative screening and screen planting Parking and vehicle entries should not present as adominant element when viewed from public view. Provide appropriate waste storage, loading and recycling facilities and screen them architecturalstructures/ elements. Screen air conditioning antennas services, and other utilities from public view using roof abilities. all for accessible to be entries pedestrian Require commercial entries. and retail from entries residential Distinguish boundary.the development property Ramps or stairs required to access araised ground level floor must provided be within over and prioritised identified vehicle movement (refer 5). Map Priority pedestrian access paths and Centre Activity Pedestrian Links should clearly be street. Pedestrian entries to buildings should clearly be visible and easily identifiable from the residential interfaces. residential Loading and areas service should located be away from sensitive uses including ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ considerations: Basement car are parks supported and should designed be with the following achievable. may acceptable be where it can demonstrate be that active use to the street is not of other screening from the street, such as landscaping and /or articulated screening, If provided, it should set be behind built form providing active uses to the street. Use Undercroft car parking is not supported in order to increase ground level active uses. ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ Comply with Melbourne Water’s: Melbourne with Comply of basement entries from the street Provide security gates, conceal pipes service and to ducts, improve the appearance Integrate ventilation grilles or security gates into the façade and landscape design Provide natural ventilation ‘Guidelines Development for Prone Flood- in Areas’ . ■ ■ ■ ■ AVOID ■ ■ ■ ■ dominate the streetscape. Parking and vehicle access-ways that building envelope. incorporate these elements within the residential area. Wherever possible, activea primary frontage street or equipment located within view of other and units Air-conditioning space. footpath the Stairs and access ramps that extend into pedestrians. Buildings that are to difficult access for 71 Part 2 Part 1 DESIGN OBJECTIVE DESIGN RESPONSE AVOID

WEATHER PROTECTION

■■ To provide continuous weather ■■ Incorporate verandahs into the façade design along Primary Active Frontages. In special ■■ Primary Active Frontage Routes with protection along key pedestrian circumstances verandahs or awnings may be omitted, such as on heritage buildings or inadequate protection from rain and routes of the Activity Centre. where daylight or upward views are desirable. sunlight (refer Map 10).

■■ Verandahs should be continuous and should be set back from street kerbs by at least

Plan GullyUpper Strategic 0.75m to avoid vehicle damage and service poles. Greater setback or cut outs might be required to accommodate existing or future street trees.

■■ Verandahs should be at an appropriate height above the footpath to avoid damage whilst still providing effective weather protection, generally between 3 and 4.5m and consistent with adjoining sites.

■■ The underside of verandahs should be lightly-coloured.

STORMWATER AND FLOOD MANAGEMENT

■■ To require development in flood ■■ All new development must comply with the requirements of any flooding overlay, or ■■ Development that increases stormwater prone or flood risk areas to be Melbourne Water’s ‘Guidelines for Development in Flood prone Areas’. If development run-off downstream. sited, set back, and designed occurs in the vicinity of an open waterway, floodplain or overland flowpath, appropriate ■■ Buildings that are inundated in a flood with appropriate freeboard freeboard requirements for the development should be adopted as determined by the event. requirements to avoid the risk of responsible authority or referral authority (i.e. Melbourne Water). The guidelines set out flood inundation. the following requirements for freeboard levels: ■■ Development that impacts properties upstream of downstream. ■■ To minimise any increase ¯¯ For development within a floodplain - Building floor levels for habitable rooms in stormwater run-off and should be at least 0.6m above the 100-year ARI flood level. Outbuilding floor levels ■■ Development redirecting flooding to protect receiving waters from should be at least 0.3m above the 100-year ARI flood level (refer to Map 19). adjoining properties. environmental degradation. ¯¯ For development within an overland flow path - Building floor levels for habitable rooms should be at least 0.3m above the 100-year ARI flood level. Outbuilding floor levels should be at least 0.15m above the 100-year ARI flood level (refer to Map 19). NB. Allowances to meet minimum floor level requirements for development in flood prone areas can be accommodated above the maximum building height of 8.5m (two storey) or 12m (three storey) above natural ground level. For indicative 100-year ARI flood depths refer to Map 19.

■■ Utilise permeable and porous surfaces and minimise impervious sealed services in order to maximise on-site stormwater infiltration.

■■ Require stormwater run-off discharge from developments is at pre-development levels.

72 SIGNAGE LANDSCAPING HERITAGE ANDBUILT FORMCHARACTER DESIGN OBJECTIVE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ and the foothills setting. foothills the and character of the Centre Activity located to compatible be with the thatadvertising and is designed To signage and support Foothills. Dandenong the within setting its realm and public the landscaping the of adjoining development and complements integrated with the design of the To provide landscaping that is 10). Map character buildingsform (refer built valued and heritage existing that is designed to complement To provide new development overlay. heritage a by covered To retain and protect buildings DESIGN RESPONSE ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Landscaping along Highway Burwood should incorporate ‘Path to the Hills’ treatments. possible. wherever trees, Retain existing trees and provide for the planting of new vegetation, including canopy Ranges. Dandenong the with links ecological and visual provide should Landscaping development in the railway reserve within of the 40m Visitors Information Centre. Highway,Burwood development on the car park at 1208 Highway Burwood and heritage building. This includes existing development at 1206, 1210, 1212A and 1212 the of the appearance significance and to designed respect buildings be should New development adjoining opposite or character built and valued form heritage Overlay. accordance in their appearance significance design, and that respects with the Heritage Alterations and additions to heritage overlay buildings should undertaken be in away ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ covering policy signage, signage should:local In addition to the requirements of Clause 52.05 of the Knox Planning Scheme and any ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ below the verandah and one sign on the awning facing the road. Be limited to one suspended sign per frontage, perpendicular to the façade, located surfaces. reflective or Be designed to avoid visual clutter and not incorporate animation, flashing, bright Be kept to aminimum by consolidating information. setting. the building the and streetscape Be of ascale, design and location that complements the design and proportion of ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ AVOID ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ rooftop levels. rooftop Signage located above the awning or façade. building the and that dominates streetscape the Signage connection to the surrounding context. little provides that Landscaping buildings. new in detailing and styles reproduction Historical Overlay.Heritage of heritage buildings, covered by the Demolition of intact and visible parts 73 Part 2 Part 1 6. IMPLEMENTATION

6.1 Overview The Implementation Plan forms part of the Strategic Plan and outlines the steps required to implement

Plan GullyUpper Strategic each strategy and action in the Strategic Plan including identifying responsibilities, stakeholders and priorities. The Implementation Plan outlines statutory and non- statutory recommendations for the Strategic Plan, including changes to the Knox Planning Scheme to support the built form objectives. The purpose of the Implementation Plan is to:

■■ Provide a clear path for deliverables, based on the recommendations of the Strategic Plan;

■■ Identify statutory and non-statutory deliverables;

■■ Identify Council and non-council opportunities, including community and business based strategies;

■■ Identify opportunities for partnership and investment;

■■ Include staging and priorities, with opportunities for catalyst projects; and

■■ Provide clear performance indicators to measure the progress of the Implementation Program. Refer to Upper Gully Plan – Implementation Plan for further information.

74 be asadvocatebe and publiclandholders. withkey partner providers.infrastructure will Council significant for role A management by others whomay landholders be or and deliver. require inputand direct actions Some requireAll Council actions initsvarious roles to facilitate adjustedbe to ensure the achieved. visionisbeing andnecessary allow for the implementation program to success ofthe program and allocate future resources as The review process willallow Council to measure the determine and analyse: years.five every occur PlanStrategic will will review This the Strategic Plan. isproposed It that the review ofthe will review, manage and measure the implementation of oftheAs part implementation process, Council Knox City 6.3 asitevolves community Upper Gully over time. projects and caters for the needsand aspirations ofthe the visionsetoutinthe Strategic Plan translates into ‘real’ The following setsoutthe to reinforce ongoingactions 6.2 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ implementation the of program. any preventing obstructions the successful Planning Scheme Amendment; and development since the introduction activity of for the Upper Gully and the objectives of the Plan; City the consistency of projects against the shared vision partnerships; the success of key actions and projects including underway; the actions and projects that have been delivered or

Management, Monitoring Review & Steps Next other landholders inthe Centre. Activity development proposals ‘initiated’ by the private and sector essentially manage and influence the land useand The provisions ofPlanning Scheme Amendment Knox Planning Scheme. and development of the aspects Strategic Plan into the Planning Scheme Amendment to implement builtform The Strategic Plan and Implementation Plan informed 6.4 Strategic Plan. is essential for Council to achieve the ofthe objectives ongoing management ofthe Implementation Program Council. Ultimately, aPlace Manager dedicated to the planning for the Futures City ofKnox City Department facilitatedwill be by and integrated into the business The ongoingmanagement ofthe Implementation Plan changes. of change market including and property demographic be Planwill tuned’ ‘fine drivers incorporate evolving to planning processes. time, Over the detailsofthe Strategic and commitment through the businessand resource require Council’s continued and dedicated involvement Advancement inthe ofactions Implementation Plan will

Approach Planning SchemeImplementation 75 Part 2 Part 1 Plan GullyUpper Strategic

76 77 Part 2 Part 1