East Melbourne Group embarks on VCAT marathon

The East Melbourne Group (EMG) has found itself back at Victoria’s planning tribunal over two developments, which they argue will have adverse effects on the neighbourhood’s amenity and character.

The first of the developments that the group objected to, is at 179-181 Hotham St, which if built according to the current plans would block sunlight to a neighbouring heritage-listed property.

The proposed three-story development is for five luxury three-bedroom apartments and two basement levels, with the lowest level boasting a pool, sauna, cold plunge, onsen and gym.

It is understood that negotiations between the City of Melbourne, residents and the developer represented by Ratio Consultants, did not satisfy all parties and the developer took the matter to VCAT.

However, members of the EMG are pushing for the design to be refined to reduce the size of the shadows cast on the eastern boundary.

EMG president Greg Bisinella said that under the current design there were no setbacks on the eastern boundary, which meant the neighbouring properties won’t get a lot of sunlight.

Next to the site at 175 Hotham St, is the heritage-listed Hotham House, which was built between 1866 and 1867 and originally owned by successful cork merchant Thomas Joseph Occleston.

According to members of the EMG, it has become a significant heritage building that is essential to the character of East Melbourne.

Lord Mayor Nick Reece has assured the council will be steadfast in its protection of East Melbourne’s character.

We will fight very, very hard to ensure developers do not overstep planning controls and to support the special character of East Melbourne, Cr Reece said.

Following, the Hotham St hearing the EMG found itself back in the CBD for another VCAT hearing in July. This time to object to the Police Association’s push for a rooftop bar at its headquarters on Jolimont St.

Located at 70-73 Jolimont St, the planning permit application, which was rejected by the City of Melbourne, would have allowed the premises to operate until 2am indoors and 11pm outdoors on Friday and Saturday nights.

The association is also looking to increase the capacity of the venue to 320 people, which raised concerns in community over the potential for loud and rowdy behaviour spilling over into East Melbourne streets in the early hours of the morning.

Earlier this year, Dr Cameron Lewis, a resident who lives close to the MCG, told Inner City News that the proposal was “unethical.”

“All venues in our area, which is predominantly residential, must cease operations at 11pm due to noise and residential disturbance,” he said.

“For the Police Association to secure approval for a venue operating until 2am is out of line with the current standards.” •