Variation to ACT plan sees some areas' proposed maximum heights reduced

A new variation to the Territory Plan in the ACT, commenced recently, has reduced the potential building heights proposed for some areas.

This includes land around Allawah Court, Currong Apartments and Bega Court, which Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development, Simon Corbell, notes is now reduced to 12 storeys from the original 15 storeys, as a result of the potential negative impact on nearby residents. This is under Variation 308.

It also looks to revitalise aged public housing stock in Braddon and Reid. Much of the area under the change is occupied by public housing stock.

"This redevelopment will reduce reliance on the motor vehicle for new residents and promote the use of public transport, cycling and walking as alternative transport," he said.

"As well as higher density residential development the variation includes a requirement for a minimum of 5,800 square metres of space for community facilities to be provided on the site," he said.

"Variation 308 also contains provisions to encourage small scale community uses on the site to meet the convenience needs of residents and to ensure the street frontages are active and vibrant."

This came after much discussion in the local community over fears that the higher level residential developments could cause anti-social behaviour in public housing properties.