A Win for Energy Efficiency
Regular readers will recall previous Tidbit articles that have discussed the extent to which a proposed development can impact the energy efficiency of a neighbouring property.
One Planner's Archive
Discussion Papers & Articles
VCAT Will Make Council Pay Your Fees
Regular readers will recall that in December 2014 we reported on the newly introduced Section 115CA of the VCAT Act.
Changes to VCAT Procedures
Late in 2014 VCAT announced that there will be a number of process changes made to planning appeal procedures.
Even Worse than a Refusal at VCAT
An interesting case which identified an issue with the implementation of Precinct Structure Plans has caught our attention.
At Last: A Stick for Applicants
In an unexpected (but welcome) move, the VCAT Amendment Act 2014 has ushered in new provisions that will require Council to pay the application fee for an appeal if Council’s statutory time frames aren’t met.
Notice of Objector Appeals
Regular planning permit applicants will be aware that when objections are received in response to a permit application, and Council supports the proposal, a Notice of Decision (NOD) to grant a permit will first be issued by Council. The purpose of the NOD is to allow objectors 21 days to […]
VCAT’s Position on Development Overshadowing Solar Panels
A review of case law associated with the overshadowing of solar panels including VCAT’s latest decision.
Appealing a VCAT Decision to the Supreme Court
Planning note looking at issues relating appealing a decision of VCAT. Clause 1 Planning
Planning Mediation
Mediation is used often in planning to resolve or narrow issues between parties. The usefulness of mediation should not be underestimated where a face-to-face meeting or a telephone call might result in a much smoother process and mutually beneficial outcomes.
History of Heritage Overlay Supports Demolition
Many VCAT cases involve objections to the demolition of a heritage building or place that is already ‘protected’ by a heritage overlay under the Victorian Planning Scheme. It is often asked at what point is it worth saving a heritage building, when the building is in a poor state of repair?