Update on Development at 1-7 Waterfront Place

We understand that VCAT will review the City of Port Phillip's (CoPP) decision to refuse a planning application for the “construction of a 10-storey mixed use building over two basement levels containing 175 dwellings and two retail premises of 355 square metres and a reduction in car parking requirements” at a six-day hearing commencing on the 19th March 2018. (VCAT Ref P2100/2017).

The developer submitted new plans for the site in early February. If you objected to the earlier plans, you should have received a letter from the developer’s solicitors with details. If not, contact Ms Rhodie Anderson at randerson@rigbycooke.com.au. Original objectors may wish to revise their Statement of Grounds now that new plans have been submitted. This needs to be on the VCAT application form with copies sent to the CoPP and the developer’s solicitor. New objectors can complete a Statement of Grounds. A fee of $19.90 applies for individuals and not-for-profit organisations. Fee details are shown at www.vcat.vic.gov.au.  New and revised Statement of Grounds must be submitted by 27 February 2018.

The BCNA Committee met CoPP planning staff to discuss the plans. As a result, the Committee has decided to continue to object to the plans. The Committee wants to see the site developed but according to the CoPP's planning guidelines. Our objections are about visual bulk, that the plans were not in accordance with the plans listed in the VCAT Order of January 2015; overshadowing of the foreshore; and traffic congestion. Our revised Statement of Grounds can be downloaded here.

More Air Quality Monitoring at Station Pier

The Minister for the Environment has written to The Hon. Martin Foley, Member for Albert Park, informing him that the EPA will request the Victorian Ports Corporation Melbourne (VPCM) to expand its current monitoring program at Station Pier to include an additional monitoring station. The EPA will work with VPCM and the BCNA to determine a suitable location for the station. Information gathered from additional monitoring will assist the EPA to determine what steps may be required to address potential air quality issues.

The Australian Government sets standards for fuel emissions from ships. This is currently at 3.5% sulphur content, but is scheduled to fall to 0.5% from 1 January 2020. The Commonwealth Minister’s office has written to the BCNA to say that they expect all vessels and ships to comply with the new standards from 1 January 2020.

Beacon Cove Seawall Repairs

The City of Port Phillip (CoPP) will commence seawall repairs this week. Certain areas of the seawall require repair to maintain structural integrity.

The work will predominantly be in an area close to Princes Pier. All work is expected to be completed by 31 March 2018, weather permitting.  The CoPP will attempt to minimise disruption to use of the boardwalk.

Beachpatrol 3207 Free Film Night

On Thursday 15 March, Beachpatrol 3207 has arranged a free showing of a recent documentary on plastic in our oceans around the world. A Plastic Ocean has won many awards for its content and spectacular photography.

There will be a short Q&A session afterwards and tea and coffee is provided.

The venue is the Port Melbourne Town Hall and reservations are required. Door open at 6:15pm and it should be finished by 9pm. More details can be found here.