Highland Park investigation area

• Project typeBusiness & economic development
• Project scheduleSeptember 2021 – on hold

The purpose of the investigation was to explore the suitability and feasibility of this area to accommodate more housing and employment opportunities for our growing population.

Stage 1: Planning phase – complete

Stage 1 included a preliminary planning investigation and notifying landowners within the investigation area. The investigation looked at:

• surrounding context
• existing urban design
• infrastructure
• opportunities and constraints.

Report to Council

A report was presented to Council in February 2022. The report found:

• there were enough grounds to continue the project
• technical investigations were required for a detailed understanding of the matters identified in the report.

Stage 2: Technical investigation – complete

Completed technical investigations

• High level market and feasibility assessment
• Site-based ecological assessment on both public and private land
• Bushfire hazard assessment and management plan
• Preliminary infrastructure assessment for transport, sewer, water, stormwater and open space

Report to Council

A report containing the investigation findings was presented to the Planning and Regulation Committee on 19 November 2024.

The report found that there were opportunities for housing in the investigation area. However, the area's suitability is limited by environmental values and bushfire hazard.

On 3 December, Council endorsed a recommendation to place the Gaven North investigation area project on hold.

Next steps

We are developing a strategy to help us manage the city's growth. If our Local Growth Management Strategy identifies a need to provide more housing in the area, then the Highland Park investigation area will be reconsidered.

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Highland Park study area map

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