Minister for Planning and Land Management, Mick Gentleman has proposed a range of changes to the planning regime in Belconnen following finalisation of the Belconnen Town Centre Master Plan in 2016.
He said public consultation on his proposals was now open.
Mr Gentleman said strategic rezoning in Belconnen’s commercial zones and trades and services area headed the list of planning changes that would guide the growth of the Belconnen Town Centre for the next 10 to 20 years.
The Minister said Draft Variation 342 to the Territory Plan would set the directions for the future of Belconnen as an active, diverse and vital town centre serving its residents as well as the residents of the surrounding suburbs.
Mr Gentleman said the Draft Variation addressed key urban renewal issues, including appropriate density and activation of high-use zones.
He said it proposed rezoning several blocks along Lathlain Street from trades and services to commercial business zone and urban open space to promote activity and to revitalise the area to the west of Belconnen Mall.
“The Variation introduces building heights up to 27 storeys in selected locations, while accommodating the heights of approved developments in the Town Centre,” Mr Gentleman said.
“A residential area on College Street is rezoned from suburban core to high-density residential to expand the existing area of high-density residential development close to the Town Centre.”
He said active frontage and awning requirements would be incorporated in accordance with the Master Plan to provide interesting and safe public spaces for pedestrians and to ensure all-weather protection in the main pedestrian areas.
Public consultation on the Draft Variation closes on 22 June.
The 46-page Draft Variation can be accessed at the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate website at this PS News link.
