The New Simplified Rescode controls in Victoria.

The new Rescode planning controls- does it really work?

There has been a lot of noise about it. But is it really developer friendly?

The short answer is -its really not. But it could be if the Garden Area requirement is either deleted totally or be similar to the Permeability requirement where vegetation can grow.

In a recent project we discovered the front setback reduced from 9metres to 6metres was great.

But when we worked on the 35% of land being "donated" to the Garden Area we lost one unit. That would have been the "cream" on the developer's profit.

The 25sqm Secluded Open Space is a super inclusion- much better than the past where it go as high as 80%!!

There is a subtle move to get away from the archaic and subjective neighbourhood character, matching the street scape and so on. I understand the new rules introduces more contemporary built forms. Neighbourhood character is now more empirical - eg setbacks of neighbours lots location of open spaces and others.

There is still room for improving on the side setback requirements.

At least its a commitment to make planning approvals faster. Only time will tell.

( PS I understand one local Council has already disagreed with the simplified new Rescode. The matter could be heading for VCAT- that is more delays and money).

Watch this space!

Who is Swarup?

Swarup is the owner of this website and this article. He has managed over 250++ planning permits across Victoria for dual occupancy and town house subdivision projects.

These were for mum and dad investors and more experienced developers.

He is Property Subdivision specialist, planner and developer of his own properties. He walks the talk.

Swarup- your hand holding specialist

What are his qualifications?

Swarup is a Registered Planner, Member of the Planning Institute of Australia, Victorian Planning and Environmental Law Association and Associate of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects. His practice uses the latest Building Information Modelling software. Swarup has a degree in Architecture, has authored articles for a major building publication and taught at a University in Melbourne.

How does his practice work?

Collaboration is the key to success. Working with the Council , submitting drawings and reports which Council understands; while at the same time trying to make the most of the development land so the owner also wins. Its really a win win win method.

Swarup understand planning requirements, engineering ; he designs and draws all the plans, elevations, shadow diagrams etc as required by Council for the Town Planning Application. He also writes the Planning Report.

Why use us?

We work with you from start to finish. We don't give up. Swarup took 2 years to rezone one of his properties from a No build Zone to a residential Zone. The value of the land increased many-fold. In another project he presented to the full Council and won his dual occupancy subdivision permit much to the annoyance of the wealthy neighbours with Victorian mansions; not to say the Planning Officer who recommended refusal.

When does he take on your project ?

We don't believe in taking on your project to make money. Swarup will tell you what you need to hear and not what you want to hear! If its not possible we tell you upfront- not half way down after taking your hard earned money! That is a big difference.

What should you do next?

 Swarup will review the development land on a high level basis at no cost to you. He will point out what actions are required to move to the next step. He will review the Section 32 and check for any problems on title etc.

Contact Swarup any day- and make a start.