TOWN PLANNING

With our team orientated approach and commitment to providing innovative solutions, Barnes Planning offers a comprehensive range of services associated with the planning process, including Council applications, VCAT appeals and consultations.

The firm’s ability to keep abreast of the latest planning policy and regulations is reflected in our long established relationships with local Councils and authorities.

 

Our staff provide expert advice to clients regarding ways in which property objectives can best be achieved through all aspects of the statutory planning process.

This may involve research, site analysis, formulating planning strategies, preparation of planning applications and appeals, economic studies, urban design, master planning and/or environmental assessment.

In addition we provide specialist skills geared to particular types of development.

The services described below illustrate the range of skills and experience available within the firm:

 

 

SITE ANALYSIS

We have the staff resources and extensive experience to prepare the site analysis documentation (plans and reports) required by the state government (and councils) as part of the planning approval process.

Site analysis provides detailed assessment on the prospects of obtaining planning permission and a recommended strategy for achieving your selected goals. This usually includes:

  • Initial site and area inspections

  • Preparation of Site Context Plan (SCP) or Neighbourhood Site Description plan (NSDP)

  • Liaison with council regarding approval of NSDP and preferred development options

  • Preparation of Design Response Plan (DRP)

  • Preparation of Landscape Concept Plan (LCP) or Landscape Planting Plan (if required)

  • Preparation of Site Analysis and Design Response Report

  • Preparation of Streetscape Elevation

Other documents necessary including any required council reports, shadow diagrams or other planning application material.


PROPERTY ACQUISITION PLANNING REPORT

Barnes Planning can provide you with a Property Acquisition Planning Report (PAPR). This report identifies all planning issues that may be relevant to a particular property being purchased.

Each report is thoroughly researched to cover any relevant planning issues relating to the property. We assess the potential of land and buildings for alternative uses and/or development, earlier permissions relating to the land and surrounding land and the potential impact of development on surrounding land. In doing so the PAPR identifies the potential opportunities and limitations for the property. This report is a chance for buyers to identify the capabilities of the property, resulting in an informed decision.

If our client decides to purchase the property with the intention to develop, Barnes Planning can assist in the on-going planning processes.


PLANNING APPLICATIONS

We prepare the planning documents (plan and reports) required for submission of planning applications to the local council.

Barnes Planning provides planning applications with full supporting documentation for developments, change of use and signage on both residential and commercial projects. (Click on projects for more information)

We also represent clients' projects through the planning process which can include:

  • Liaison with council officers

  • Conducting the statutory advertising

  • Consultation with objectors/residents

  • Advice regarding plan changes if necessary

  • Representation of clients at council meetings

Our team has extensive experience in mediation and negotiation with planning authorities, councils, objectors and local communities.

Sometimes this process involves us working in partnership with the client's project architect or designer in order to ensure the best planning outcomes.

We often also provide advice to those in the planning application process (planning applicants and objectors) regarding the suitability of a proposed design or land use.


PLANNING APPEALS CONSIDERATIONS

We advise on the appropriate method of appeal - merits hearing, mediation or other alternatives and will manage the matter and/or brief counsel as appropriate.

Before embarking upon a planning appeal, we would advise the client on our understanding of the issues involved and the likelihood of a successful outcome.


VCAT APPEALS

When parties to a planning application (applicants or objectors) are dissatisfied with the council decision, the next step can be filing an application for review (appeal) at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

We have extensive experience at the tribunal, having provided successful representation and expert town planning evidence on numerous occasions.

Barnes Planning can act on behalf of a wide range of clients including Government authorities, corporate clients and individuals.

Depending upon the circumstances of the application, we can offer advice to clients regarding the most appropriate participation to the representation, given our established and extensive network of planning legal and technical associates. We have staff who are qualified to act as expert town planning witnesses or advocates at VCAT hearings.


HERITAGE LISTING AND CONSERVATION

Barnes Planning offers services and advice on planning issues relating to heritage and conservation sites, including:

  • Advice on planning issues regarding alterations, demolition or change of use of listed buildings.

  • Advice on aspects of Conservation Areas including designation, enlargement, demolition of unlisted buildings and new development.

  • Landscape and visual assessment

  • Public consultation and communication strategies.

  • Environmental assessments including preparation and co-ordination of environmental statements and specialist inputs on economic, retail, social and visual assessment.


CONSULTATION

Our firm offers comprehensive consultation services for clients who are seeking expert professional advice related to town planning matters.

We can provide an informed briefing to clients, objectors and other professionals on appropriate planning approaches for their project.

For more information or to make an enquiry on how we can help you, please click here to contact us.