Developer Kataland launches eco-friendly housing site Underbank west of Melbourne

A project west of Melbourne in Bacchus Marsh that promises “next generation, economical housing design”, has been launched.

Developer Kataland’s Underbank, a development site on 166 hectares, seeks to differentiate itself from traditional master-planned communities through designs that are in harmony with the natural landscape of the area.

The $250 million dollar project will be located in Melbourne’s Western Growth Corridor, one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, which will eventually accommodate a population of 277,000 people and 164,000 jobs.

Kataland director Jason Yeap said Underbank breaks away from traditional master-planned communities because it is planned to be in harmony with the natural landscape.

“Most master-planned communities look the same – they’re flat and featureless. When I first saw the Underbank site, I was struck by the rich landscape. There’s a natural bowl formation with a valley floor surrounded by hills, established trees, native shrubs and landscaped waterways.”

“With Underbank, it was integral to preserve the site’s existing natural assets, and instead of cutting into the land, we created new home designs that work with the land, not against it.”

Located three kilometres west from Bacchus Marsh, Underbank is expected to become home to around 4,000 people in 1,500 houses, with its own town centre, parklands, plus community and recreational facilities.

Construction on the Underbank sites has already commenced, and stage one has been released, with land starting at $129,000 for a 420 sqm block.

While buyers can choose their own builder, Underbank, will also offer future residents access to designs by architect Louis Chiodo that feature modular light-filled living environments.

Yeap said supporting the growing community in the charming town of Bacchus Marsh was vital.

“People aren’t just moving to Bacchus Marsh because of affordability – there’s a long string of prestigious schools like Bacchus Marsh Grammar, and it’s only 50 km from Melbourne’s CBD,” said Yeap.

“We have been working with council and the local community to future proof the region so that growth is sustainable and the bustling town remains liveable.”

Underbank will be maintaining and restoring the flora and historical significance of the former stud farm, once home to Australian legendary racehorse Phar Lap. It will restore the horse stables into a community hub for markets and activities.

Other features of Underbank’s planning include walking trails and bike paths through the parklands. There will also be several pocket parks dotted through the site with playgrounds, fitness stations, picnic shelters and BBQ facilities.

Infrastructure upgrades, including the Hallets Way upgrade and pedestrian links to Bacchus Marsh Road, will improve connectivity in-and-about Bacchus Marsh, according to the media release.

“As a developer, our goal is to be visionary; to be a leader, not a follower,” said Yeap. “With Underbank, we’re excited to bring a new era of master planned communities which respects the land and supports growth for current and future generations.”