The Andrews Labor Government is taking real action to protect our iconic Yarra River, the Birrarung, with stronger, permanent planning protections.
The Minister for Planning Richard Wynne today announced permanent planning controls to protect the river and its surrounding lands from Richmond to Warrandyte. The controls will ensure the health and amenity of the Yarra River is safeguarded for future generations.
The changes lock in permanent landscape and built form controls, including height restrictions to prevent overshadowing, and setbacks to protect the river from inappropriate development.
Mandatory height limits of between 6 and 25 metres have been set along the Yarra River between Richmond and Warrandyte and a minimum mandatory setback of 30 meters means no development can occur on the sensitive riverbanks.
The setbacks prohibit development close to the river and protect it from overshadowing and tall intrusive buildings. Previously, apartment developments, which were too high, were springing up as close as 15 metres from the banks of the river.
The restrictions are based on a detailed landscape assessment of the river corridor across Banyule, Boroondara, Manningham, Nillumbik, Stonnington and Yarra and build on interim protections the Victorian Government implemented four years ago between Richmond and Warrandyte.
The controls, together with the forthcoming Yarra Strategic Plan, will work together to protect the Yarra River and bring to life the landmark Yarra River Protection (Wilip-gin Birrarung murron) Act 2017.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“The Yarra River has an important place in the hearts of Victorians and that’s why we are taking real action to protect it for future generations.”
“Today we have clear, consistent permanent planning controls to protect the natural landscape and environment of our beautiful river.”
Reviewed 18 April 2021