To the Planning Officer,
I hope this message finds you well.
I am a resident of 869 Dandenong Road, Malvern East, writing to formally raise my concerns regarding the proposed development at 873 Dandenong Road, which is situated immediately adjacent to my residence.
While I understand the need for urban growth and development, I am deeply concerned that this project may negatively impact the amenity, privacy, and quality of life for surrounding residents, especially in the following areas:
1. Loss of Natural Light and Privacy
The proposed building appears to be very close to both 869 and 881 Dandenong Road, raising serious concerns about overshadowing and loss of daylight, which would reduce indoor brightness and overall living comfort.
Furthermore, if the proposed building contains habitable room windows or balconies facing adjacent apartments, it may infringe upon privacy standards outlined in the Better Apartments Design Standards (Clause 58 of the Victoria Planning Provisions):
• Standard D15 – Internal Views: Requires a minimum of 9 metres separation between windows or balconies of different dwellings to protect privacy.
• Standard D17 – Building Separation: Requires a minimum setback of 3 to 9 metres, depending on the building height (4.5m for mid-rise, up to 9m for high-rise developments).
Considering the narrow width of the site, it is questionable whether these mandatory standards can be fully achieved.
2. Construction Noise and Disruption
Given the limited space between 869 and 881 Dandenong Road, any large-scale construction on the 873 site is likely to generate significant noise, vibration, and disruption. The use of heavy machinery, demolition activities, and continuous building works will seriously affect daily life—particularly for residents who work from home or work night shifts.
This concern aligns with the principles of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, which require that developments minimise adverse impacts on the surrounding community.
Therefore, I respectfully request that Council:
• Reassess the proposed development’s design and compliance, particularly with respect to Clause 58 building separation and privacy provisions;
• Request the developer to provide shadow and view impact analysis reports and ensure affected residents are properly informed and consulted;
• Strengthen community consultation and prioritise transparency and fairness in the decision-making process, ensuring local residents' voices are heard and considered.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my submission. I strongly believe that community wellbeing and liveability should remain a central focus in all planning decisions—especially for developments that directly impact existing residents' lives.
Sincerely,
869 Dandenong Road Resident
