The Planning Institute of Australia welcomes the Victorian Government’s introduction of Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) policies into the planning schemes of five municipalities in Melbourne.
The policies, introduced into the cities of Moreland, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Whitehorse and Yarra, tighten current planning and building requirements so new buildings in those councils meet environmental targets. Examples of targets include energy efficiency, water resources, indoor environmental quality, storm water management, transport, waste management, and urban ecology.
Victorian President of the Planning Institute of Australia, James Larmour-Reid, says: “The new policies will ensure that ESD is considered early in the planning, design and development process, enabling best outcomes,” states Larmour-Reid.
“Introduction of the local policy into the Moreland, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Whitehorse and Yarra Planning Schemes is the culmination of a number of years work by those municipalities. It formalises a system that has been tested, and recognises planning’s important role in achieving Environmentally Sustainable Development.
“We congratulate these municipalities on their work and persistence in preparing the policy. The benefits will be enjoyed through more efficient buildings and more comfortable living and working environments for decades to come.
“PIA Victoria hopes the state government demonstrates a commitment to continually improving Environmentally Sustainable Development through the planning process. We hope it views the introduction of these local policies as a pilot project that could inform a roll-out across the State.” concludes Larmour-Reid.
Amendments Moreland C71, Port Phillip C97, Stonnington C177, Whitehorse C130 and Yarra C133 were introduced into the on Thursday November 19 2015. The main aim of the amendments is to encourage development to exceed minimum standards of the existing building and planning codes.
For more information please call Consultant Media Advisor, Joanna Stanley on 0425 735 715 or PIA Victoria Executive Officer Carmel McCormack on 0402 249 832