Current density ratios remain well below greenfield development achieved in most countries . . .
The development and regulatory regimes in growth areas should be reformed to mandate the delivery of solar-oriented, environmentally sustainable dwellings, and to facilitate the development of zero-lot-line, patio style housing in which private open space becomes useful garden space, not wasted in side setbacks and token landscaping.
2. 3.
Growth area examples
1.
New subdivision in Melbourne’s outer west, typical of the pattern of growth area residential development over the last decade or two. The great majority of land is taken up by space for cars (roadways, driveways, garages) and the dwellings themselves. There is very little space for tree or other amenity planting and private open space is minimal with no consideration of orientation.
2.
A Melbourne subdivision (Burwood) typical of inter-war and post-war years. It shares a grid street pattern with current growth area developments, but there is plenty of space for back yards and mature trees. The net density is lower than in current growth areas, but so is the site coverage of most of the dwellings.
3.
Vermont Park, Vermont South is an example from the 1970s of good planning achieving a high quality suburban environment. It is a development that replaces the rigidity of the street grid with an informal layout of paths, open spaces and garage courts.
There are ways to design more climate responsive dwellings, of higher density with space for trees and a pleasant aspect . . .
TYPICAL: An example of the type of dwelling common in growth areas: large house, small private open spaces, random orientation.
POSSIBLE: Living areas face larger north-facing private open space, adaptable design, higher overall density.