🏡 Fast-Tracked Success: A Technical Dual Occupancy Outcome in Knoxfield

We’re excited to share the successful approval of a well-resolved residential infill project at Rodney Drive, Knoxfield, achieved rapidly under the VicSmart provisions through Knox City Council.

This project involved retaining the existing dwelling to the front of the site while delivering a substantial new double-storey townhouse to the rear. Despite its modest scale, the proposal required a highly considered response to neighbourhood character, amenity, landscaping, access, permeability, and stormwater objectives within the Knox Planning Scheme.

The result is a refined and site-responsive dual occupancy outcome that increases housing diversity while maintaining the established suburban garden character and residential character of the area.

🏘️ Project Highlights

• Retention of the existing dwelling fronting Rodney Drive

• Construction of a new contemporary double-storey townhouse

• Reconfigured driveway arrangement to improve access and functionality

• Removal of the existing rear carport for a more efficient site layout

• Strong landscaping response with 38.06% garden area

• Functional and compliant private open space for both dwellings

• Clause 52.06 compliant parking arrangement

📐 Our Contribution

Our team managed the project from initial design through to planning approval, including preparation of the town planning drawings, planning report, and overall project management throughout the permit process.

The design carefully balanced site efficiency, access functionality, landscaping outcomes, and residential amenity while ensuring the new dwelling integrated comfortably behind the retained home and responded positively to the surrounding suburban context.

🤝 Acknowledging the Team

A huge thank you to the consultants who contributed to this successful outcome.

👏 Ruban Kalaruban from TSK Consultants for the civil and stormwater design

👏 Mark from ALD Landscaping for the landscape architecture

👏 Arbor Express for the arborist reporting

Projects like this demonstrate how thoughtful planning and strategic site design can unlock development potential within established suburban neighbourhoods without compromising character or amenity.

Achieving an efficient VicSmart approval pathway on a technical infill site highlights the importance of strong documentation, coordinated consultant input, and a clear planning strategy from the outset.

At Canter Town Planning, our town planning consultants in Knox deliver effective and efficient dwelling approvals through a strategic and collaborative approach to residential development.

Thinking about unlocking your site’s potential? Get in touch with our team. We’d love to help bring your project to life.