Estate stage three set to go

A PLANNING panel decision will see the finalisation of stage three of a 39lot development in Healesville.
The Shire of Yarra Ranges last week agreed with an independent panel finding to remove a planning restriction from land in Don Road, Healesville.
In November the council agreed to remove the restriction, but following approval from State Minister for Planning Rob Hulls the council received three objections.
The land, known as St Margaret’s Estate, includes Eli Court, Louise Drive, St Margaret’s Road and Don Road.
The estate is a threestage 39lot development with the first two stages finished, including several homes, roads and boundaries.
However, stage three of the development has been delayed because of the land restriction.
Council director of planning, building and health James LamourReid said the restriction stated a house could only be 10 per cent of the block size.
A council spokesperson said the average house size was about 300 square metres.
A supporter of the removal of the condition, Frank Levacsiscs, has been waiting for more than 21 months to build his house because of the restriction.
The restriction means Mr Levacsics, who has a 3370square metre lot, can only build a house no greater than 370 square metres, which is slightly smaller than the average house.
Objectors to the restriction felt its removal would encourage larger houses and associated buildings in the area, which would then lead to the loss of amenity and rural character of the area.
However, the independent panel found there was no particular policy that stated the need for the retention of the restriction and therefore recommended the removal of the restriction.
Mr Levacsics can now get on with building his home.