NICHE PLANNING STUDIO PROJECTS

PROJECT EXAMPLES NICHE PLANNING STUDIOSuite 2 Parry Village, 188 Parry Avenue Studio 2, Level 1, 402 Smith Street, COLLINGWOOD VIC 3066 Level 1, 14 Molle Street, HOBART TAS 7000 Bullcreek WA 6146 (f ): 03 94595 6099 (f ): 03 94595 6099 (m): 0401 138 996 (m): 401 138 996 (m): 0401 138 996

VICTORIA

Drawing Source: Draft Bayside Coastal Management StrategyTHE COASTAL BAYSIDE MANAGEMENT PLANDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio was engaged by Bayside City Council to prepare a Summary In order to produce a Plan that reflects the concerns and input of land users and theof Issues Paper for Council relating to the Draft Bayside Coastal Management Plan. wider community, Bayside City Council chose to engage in a rigorous process ofThe Draft Plan provides strategic direction, vision and policy for coastal land use community consultation. This included multiple rounds of stakeholder engagement,and development at the local level. The Plan is required in order to satisfy Council including the review and incorporation of feedback relating to the Draft Plan in orderLocal Planning Policy requirements and Section 31 of the Coastal Management to inform the Final Plan. Niche Planning Studio played an important role in this processAct 1995. The plan provides both higher-level strategic discussion of land use and of review, including undertaking preliminary background research and review ofdevelopment issues impacting coastal land and specific implementation actions relevant policies and strategies, summarising and coding submissions and identifyingto achieve Council’s long-term vision and priorities over the next 10 years for the 1 key issues. This process was undertaken whilst also seeking to maintain open and7km of designated foreshore. transparent lines of communication with Council.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value Niche’s output consisted of a detailed and comprehensive Summary of Issues Paper that is currently being used by Council to inform the preparation of the final BaysideBayside area April 2014 - May 2014 Bayside City Council $600,000 approx. Coastal Management Plan. This project allowed Niche to leverage our particular strength in managing and responding to community and stakeholder engagement,NICHE in order to assist the client to deliver a Plan that will achieve the strategic goals of Council, whilst also delivering on the key issues of relevance to land users. PLA NNIN GST UD I O

MULTI-UNIT SUBDIVISION - DESIGN AND PLANNINGDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio has worked closely with the property owner to design a Through a process of detailed site analysis and studio based design refinement,subdivision layout that responds to the unique physical characteristics and planning Niche was able to prepare multiple subdivision solutions for the Client. In response toconstraints of the subject site at 48-52 Kathryn Road, Knoxfield. The property features the Client’s specific product requirements and vision for the site as well as ourextensive areas of native vegetation and is subject to significant statutory constraints expectations of statutory planning constraints, we assisted the client in the selectionon development, tree removal and allotment size. In order to achieve a high quality of a final design solution. This multi-stage subdivision design process ensures that the vision of the client is best realised in balance with the physical and planning constraintsoutcome, Niche has drawn upon our highly developed expertise in subdivison of the site.design, native vegetation management, project management and statutoryplanning. In conjunction with this studio based design methodology, Niche has also providedLOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value advice and assistance in relation to ongoing Strategic and Statutory Planning processes. This includes a review and submission of the impact of a proposedKnox City Council November 2014 - present Private $3,000,000 Planning Scheme amendment and the preparation, lodgement and ongoing management of a permit application with the City of Knox. This evidences Niche’sNICHE ability to provide specialised advice and assistance at all stages of the development cycle in order to achieve a high quality outcome for clients PLA NNIN GST UD I O

MILDURA RIVERFRONT REDEVELOPMENTDESCRIPTION OF WORKThe Mildura Riverfront Redevelopment represents a significant open space renewal project, Niche Planning Studio, acting on behalf of Mildura Rural City Council, securedwhich will reinvigorate the 1.2km stretch of parklands and facilities along the banks of the all planning permits associated with the development of the Mildura RiverfrontMurray River in proximity to the Mildura Central Business District. The project involves the in a timely and efficient manner. This process involved collaborating withcooperation of Local, State and Federal Government and includes an $18.3 million multiple co-consultants, including the input of architects, engineers, urbaninvestment in public infrastructure. In order to facilitate timely delivery of various stages, designers and cultural heritage experts. Additionally, the process requiredbalance the demands of various stakeholders and provide a world class response to careful land use planning in order to respond to a complex pattern of landenvironmental, built form, cultural and heritage constraints, the project required the issuance ownership and tenure.of multiple planning permits. In addition to preparing, lodging and managing all planning permit applications CLIENT LOCATION for the various stages of the project, Niche Planning Studio was involved in the Mildura Rural City Council The Mildura Riverfront preparation of risk mitigation reports to guide proposed forward works undertaken by co-cosultants Tract and Lateral Projects. Our input to this process VALUE START/END DATE was integral to delivering these works in a timely, cost-effective and efficient $18.3 mil 17/8/2013 – 11/12/2013 manner. Niche Planning Studio has secured the following planning permits for the Redevelopment: 1. Promenade/ Jogging and Cycling Pathway 4. Nowingi Place Events Area 2. Nowingi Place Early Works 5. Rowing Club Building 3. Water Play Par 6. Langtree Connection 7. Mildura WharfNICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O Drawing Source: Tract Consultants (landscape architects)

BOTANIC RIDGE PRECINCT STRUCTURE PLAN DESCRIPTION OF WORK Niche Planning Studio has had an active role in the preparation of the Botanic Ridge Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) in Melbourne’s south-east growth corridor since the commencement of preliminary landowner discussions in 2010. Initially employed at Peet Limited as a Development Manager, Niche Planning Studio Director Nicola Smith was actively involved in the preparation of draft PSPs, liaising with the Metropolitan Planning Authority, local government authorities and other key stakeholders. In regard to the Botanic Ridge PSP, her role included championing the 96A planning permit process with the City of Casey to ensure concurrent approvals were achieved for the PSP and Subdivision as well as coordinating submissions for a likely PSP panel process. Within Peet she also played a key design review role for a variety of PSP’s and subdivisions across Victoria’s urban growth areas. This expertise has been built upon within Niche where all staff continue to provide assistance to landowners within various growth corridors. Specifically, within the south-east, Niche provides strategic assistance to clients such as ISPT Pty Ltd to ensure successful and timely implementation of PSP requirements.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual ValueBotanic Ridge PSP August 2010 - February 2013 ISPT $10,000,000NICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

THE PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORKDESCRIPTION OF WORKThe Victorian Government Minister for Planning sought to undertake a detailed review of the StatePlanning Policy Framework, in order to deliver a more meaningful, relevant and useable policydocument. As part of this review, the Minister appointed a Review Advisory Committee, to oversee theprocess and provide expert technical and policy advice.Niche Planning Studio Director, Nicola Smith was appointed by the Planning Minister to sit on the AdvisoryCommittee, reflecting her expert technical knowledge of the Victorian Planning and high esteem withinthe Urban Planning profession . The SPPF is an integral component of the Victorian planning systemproviding a linkage between the State-wide Vision and local planning implementation.As part of this role, Nicola was involved in consulting with a wide range of stakeholders, preparation ofa suggested SPPF Structure and detailed input into a final SPPF document. This process involvednumerous meetings with fellow Advisory Committee members, facilitation of multiple rounds of communityand stakeholder engagement and the preparation of a number of background documents and final reports.Nicola was also involved in liaising with DTPLI and regional local governments to review the Regional GrowthPlans (RGP) and convert them into policy objectives and strategies for inclusion in the new document.Niche’s involvement with this project has allowed us to ascertain a high degree of knowledge relatingto the revised SPPF and allowed us to leverage our unique capabilities in community engagement andpolicy review.LOCATION START/END DATE ANNUAL VALUE CLIENTVictoria Wide July 2013 - June 2014 $90, 000 DTPLINICHE Image Source: Draft Planning Policy Framework PLA NNIN GST UD I O

BALLARAT ROAD COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio assisted in the development of the Super A-Mart and Niche Planning Studio provided advice specifically designed and constructed toassociated office, retail and restaurant on Ballarat Road in Braybrook. The site was suit the intricate specification requests of a number of tenants consisting of a largelocated in a very prominent location, selected and developed as per the retail showroom and storage warehouse retailing, restaurants and offices to helprequirements of Super A-Mart. Pelligra Group contracted Niche Planning Studio to expose the expanding retail area of Braybrook.advise and recommend solutions to statutory planning, building design, internal fitout, building compliance with associated permit conditions and landscaping for This job presented challenges around heritage compliance and landscaping, requiringthe proposed development. Niche Planning Studio to negotiate an outcome between Heritage Victoria, the City of Maribyrnong and the Client to obtain the best outcome possible for all stakeholders.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value Niche Planning Studio had also been engaged to lodge new planning permits, amend existing planning permits and review planning permit conditions to assist in obtainingBraybrook, VIC April 2013 - October 2014 Private $5,000,000 Endorsed Plans and Statement of Compliance. This included working with building Developer surveyors, construction managers and site personnel directly to finalise a plan that was acceptable to all relevant government authorities.NICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

GIPPSLAND LAKES SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PLANDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio was invited by Geografia to provide input to theGippsland Lakes Sustainable Development Plan (SDP) as part of the scopeof works identified by East Gippsland Shire Council. The Plan seeks tofacilitate economic growth and development centred on the lake,whilst protecting the intrinsic environmental, cultural and recreationalvalues of the natural resource, This Plan is one of the suite of initiativesundertaken by the East Gippsland Shire Council to reduce theimpact of human development on the environment, whilstproviding a framework for ongoing growth and development.Niche Planning Studio role involved a detailed review of the draftSDP, the provision of a comprehensive review of the State PlanningPolicy Framework, the implications of recent changes to the SPPFand how this was likely to impact the SDP.In addition, Niche provided input concerning the implementationof recommendations from the Sustainable Development Plan andprovided a final review of the final draft of the SustainableDevelopment Plan.LOCATION CLIENT Image Source: glgn.com.auGippsland Geografia on behalf of the East Gippsland Shire CouncilSTART/END DATE & Wellington Shire CouncilJune 2014 - July 2014 Annual ValueNICHE $ 150,000 PLA NNIN GST UD I O

PLANNING POLICY UPDATE - CSIRO SITE Image Source: Hansen Partnership Image Source: Hansen PartnershipDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio has developed an excellent working relationship with Councils Niche Planning Studio was engaged by Bayside City Council to provide an updatedin both metropolitan and regional areas across Australia. Through our strong planning policy review of the State Planning Policy Framework, Local Planning Policyrelationships, we have consistently been approached to provide expert third party Framework and potentially applicable Zone and Overlay requirements, should theplanning advice to supplement Council’s strategic and statutory planning teams. Commonwealth Government resolve to dispose of the site in the coming year.A recent example of this is the provision of expert planning advice to support Niche Planning Studio provided a comprehensive planning report reviewing all policyBayside City Council’s rezoning proposal for the Commonwealth Scientific and updates since 2012 and making recommendations relative to the strategic directionIndustrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) site. As Federal Government property, of the municipality. Niche Planning Studio provided this comprehensive report tothe site was exempt from the requirements of any planning scheme. However, in Council within two weeks; illustrating our ability to provide a meaningful and concise2012 the Federal Government looked to dispose of the land and as such future outcome within a short timeframe.planning controls needed to be proposed. In 2015, the CSIRO site remained underthe control of the Commonwealth Government and advice prepared in 2012 was no LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Valuelonger applicable due to a change in planning regulation over the years. $40,000NICHE Bayside City Council March 2015 - April 2015 Council PLA NNIN GST UD I O

STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE APPROVALS DESCRIPTION OF WORK Acutely aware of development pressures within the south-east growth corridor, Niche Planning Studio was called upon by the largest landowner within the Devon Meadows Precinct Structure Plan (PSP), Vella Sands, to assist in the facilitation of preliminary planning for land generally bound by South Gippsland Highway, Craig Road and Browns Road. Niche Planning Studio initially provided the landowner with assistance in obtaining Works Authority approvals for the continuing operation of a sand blending facility, and later in obtaining approval for final remediation of the site for sale to a private developer. To progress the ongoing subdivision and development of the site, Niche facilitated discussions with the Metropolitan Planning Authority (MPA) assisting in the development of the PSP and associated Scheme Amendment. This project has also enabled Niche to showcase their in-depth knowledge of the strategic approvals process required under the Federal Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. Prior to the bilateral agreement between the Federal and State Government, Niche Planning Studio was engaged in the provision of advice to clients regarding the Part 9 approval process. Today, as a result of the Devon Meadows project, Niche has increased their expertise in regard to the EPBC Act process and provides clients across Victoria with advice on the Strategic Impact Assessment, Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and Sub-Regional Species Strategies.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual ValueDevon Meadows August 2012 - present Vella Sands $7,000,000NICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

GRAHAMS RESEVRE BAY TRAIL CONNECTIONDESCRIPTION OF WORKGrahams Reserve is an important area of riparian vegetation and public open Green Wedge Zone and the presence of an Environmental Significance Overlay andspace at the mouth of the Werribee River. The precinct fulfils a significant habitat, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity, the proposal required the issuance of aenvironmental and recreational function and constitutes a critical buffer between planning permit form Wyndham City Council.residential areas to the north-east and internationally significant wetlands centredon the Werribee River to the south-west. Additionally, the location of the site at the periphery of the Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) RAMSAR Wetlands, required referral of the proposed action to the FederalThe project sought to provide an inclusive, environmentally sensitive mixed trail Environment Minister pursuant to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act.across the reserve, consisting of elevated and at-grade sections, viewing and Niche Planning Studio provided specific planning assistance in the preparation of theactivity platforms and associated landscaping and earthworks. Given referral documents and secured agreement from the Department of the Environmentdevelopment sensitivities relating to the location of the bulk of the site within the that the proposed works are not a controlled action and do not require further assessment of impact.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value Niche Planning Studio’s intimate understanding of referral triggers and the broaderGrahams Resevre Jan 2014 - October 2014 Wyndham City $10,000,000 impact of the EPBC Act assisted the Client in securing timely approval for the works Council and ensured that the environmental and landscape significance of the area wasNICHE protected. PLA NNIN GST UD I O

PRECINCT STRUCTURE PLAN - BOUNDARY REVIEW SUBJECT SITEDESCRIPTION OF WORKThrough Niche Planning Studio’s extensive experience in dealing with Precinct To actively pursue a positive outcome for our Clients, Niche Planning Studio engagedStructure Plans (PSP) we were engaged by multiple landowners to represent in ongoing discussions with the Metropolitan Planning Authority (MPA) and Boral Deertheir interests in providing certainty of land value and confidence with progessing Park Operations group to present a strong argument and negotiate the realignmentfuture development. of PSP boundaries to include our Client’s landholding in an adjacent PSP with stronger development opportunities and a shorter time horizon to facilitate development.Aware that their landholdings were the only private parcels located within theRavenhall PSP, and that the remainder of the land within the PSP boundaries Through a sequence of discussions and review of technical documents such aswere owned by Boral Deer Park quarrying and landfill services, the landowners Servicing Plans, Pre and Post Cultural Heritage Assessments and Land Capabilityapproached Niche Planning Studio to provide strategic advice to enable the sale Reports, Niche Planning Studio was successful in providing a sound justification basedand potential development of the subject site in the short to medium term. on statutory implications and our understanding of the overall machinations of the PSP process to realign the PSP boundaries. This realignment ultimately led to anLOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value increase in the viability of the land parcels for futuredevelopment outcomesWestern Growth October 2014 - January 2015 Multiple $5,000,000Corridor landownersNICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

STRATEGIC ADVICE - GROWTH CORRIDOR PLANNINGDESCRIPTION OF WORKIn 2012, Niche Planning Studio was approached by a number of landowners Specifically, Niche was engaged to provide advice and make formal submissions onlocated along the Western Highway, Rockbank to assist in the provision of strategic the Western Growth Corridor Plan and undertake negotiations with the Metropolitanplanning advice to retain long term development rights for a variety of land parcels Planning Authority (MPA) and Melton Council, ultimately leading to the identificationlocated within the proposed Mt Atkinson Precinct Structure Plan (PSP). of the subject land for development potential in the draft PSP, released in late 2014. Niche continues to provide advice on the ongoing preparation of the Mt Atkinson PSP.Niche Planning Studio has continued to work extensively with the landownerconsortium to resolve multiple statutory and strategic planning issues, assisting the As a result of the subject landholding being significantly impacted by a Publiclandowners in realising the development potential of the sites. Acquisition Overlay (PAO) for the future construction of the Outer Metropolitan Ring Road (OMR), Niche Planning Studio has leveraged our existing relationships withLOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value multiple statutory bodies including the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure, Municipal Planning Authority, Melton City Council, VicRoads andMt Atkinson PSP August 2012 - February 2013 ISPT $10,000,000 Melbourne Water to commence compensation processes, ensure the appropriate location of important infrastructure and commence permit applications forNICHE development of the landholdings. PLA NNIN GST UD I O

HAWKSBURN ACTIVITY CENTRE STRUCTURE PLANDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio was engaged by Stonnington City Council to preparea detailed Project Brief to guide the tendering process and preparation of theHawksburn Activity Centre Structure Plan. The Structure Plan provides a 10-20year strategic framework for the future development of the activity centre,including establishing preferred land use patterns, built form outcomes, transportconnectivity and pedestrian movement networks. The Structure Plan was promptedby Council’s Municipal Strategic Statement , which identified the HawksburnPrecinct as a Neighbourhood (Large) Activity Centre, requiring effective strategicplanning to guide growth and development. This classification reflects the precinct’simportant role as a larger local centre, catering to the everyday needs of localresidents as well as providing speciality retail, office and service land uses.To enable a high quality, well-researched project brief, Niche Planning Studioundertook an initial review of the Stonnington Planning Scheme, relevantreference and strategic documents and other information relating to theHawksburn Activity Centre. In addition, Niche engaged with relevant stakeholdersin order to procure necessary information to further the brief. The final project briefclearly articulated the key development and land use pressures impacting theHawksburn Neighbourhood Activity Centre, as well as the range of strategicplanning outcomes required. As the result of this project brief, Stonnington CityCouncil was better able to understand the transport, economic and urban designissues relevant to the centre.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENTHawksburn Activity Centre March 2014 - April 2014 Stonnington City Council ANNUAL VALUE $2,000,000NICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

CLOW STREET APARTMENTS - DANDENONGDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio acted on behalf of the landowners of 60 Clow Street A unique aspect of the site was the centralised location of an existing heritageDandenong to submit a permit application for high-density apartments with a building: Thuruna House. Niche Planning Studio utilised our in-house understanding ofvariety of retail uses to the City of Greater Dandenong. built form heritage constraints and urban design capabilities to work together with the applicant and PARP to prepare an ‘Urban Context Report’ and a detailed designAs the development was in a Ministerial Declared Project area and was a response to retain the heritage building within the proposed development.development of four or more storey’s it was referred to Places Victoria forconsideration by the Planning Application Review Panel (PARP) consisting of Niche Planning Studio undertook meetings with PARP to discuss and gain support inrepresentatives from the City of Greater Dandenong, Department of Planning and principal for the proposal. Niche Planning Studio worked closely with the heritageCommunity Development (DPCD) and Places Victoria. consultant, traffic consultant and architect to ensure that each revision of the plan had taken into consideration comments from PARP together with items containedLOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value within the Guidelines for Higher Density Residential Development. As a result Niche maintained a good working relationship with the state and local government whichDandenong, VIC April 2012 - October 2012 Private $4,000,000 will ultimately result in the redevelopment of the site and a great outcome for the Developer Greater Dandenong Region.NIC HE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

THE OLYMPIA INITIATIVE - DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING, VICDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio was engaged by Lateral Projects and the Victorian of housing whilst ensuring no loss to public housing numbers.Department of Housing to facilitate the planning of one of the first public housinginitiatives for Olympia. Niche Planning Studio was engaged to facilitate the conversion of vacant land in 42 Perth Street, Heidelberg West. The project proposed a mix of accomodationThe Olympia Initiative is a project directed by the Victorian Department of Housing options that were designed to meet the diverse needs of the community.to create more than 600 homes over the next decade. The initiative aims to replaceolder and outdated properties as well as allowing housing, that no longer meets the Comprehensive Planning Permit Development Applications for three dwellings ofneeds of residents’ to be upgraded. This project, worth approximately $160 million one to three bedroom units were prepared in consultation with Council, Thestarted in August 2012 and is expected to improve the quality and diversity Department of Housing and the community. This project allowed Niche planning Studio to leverage our particular strengths in managing and responding to community andLOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value stakeholder needs, whilst providing the best outcome for the Client (Department of Housing). The Client was able to deliver a plan to achieve the strategic goals of42 Perth St, April 2014 - October 2014 Department of $160m Council, whilst also delivering on the needs of current and future residents.Heidelberg West HE Housing & LateralNIC Projects PLA NNIN G IST UD I O

THE PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORKDESCRIPTION OF WORKThe Victorian Government Minister for Planning sought to undertake a detailed review of the StatePlanning Policy Framework, in order to deliver a more meaningful, relevant and useable policydocument. As part of this review, the Minister appointed a Review Advisory Committee, to oversee theprocess and provide expert technical and policy advice.Niche Planning Studio Director, Nicola Smith was appointed by the Planning Minister to sit on the AdvisoryCommittee, reflecting her expert technical knowledge of the Victorian Planning and high esteem withinthe Urban Planning profession . The SPPF is an integral component of the Victorian planning systemproviding a linkage between the State-wide Vision and local planning implementation.As part of this role, Nicola was involved in consulting with a wide range of stakeholders, preparation ofa suggested SPPF Structure and detailed input into a final SPPF document. This process involvednumerous meetings with fellow Advisory Committee members, facilitation of multiple rounds of communityand stakeholder engagement and the preparation of a number of background documents and final reports.Nicola was also involved in liaising with DTPLI and regional local governments to review the Regional GrowthPlans (RGP) and convert them into policy objectives and strategies for inclusion in the new document.Niche’s involvement with this project has allowed us to ascertain a high degree of knowledge relatingto the revised SPPF and allowed us to leverage our unique capabilities in community engagement andpolicy review.LOCATION START/END DATE ANNUAL VALUE CLIENTVictoria Wide July 2013 - June 2014 $90, 000 DTPLINICHE Image Source: Draft Planning Policy Framework PLA NNIN GST UD I O

DISCUSSION PAPER - HIGHER DENSITY HOUSING DESCRIPTION OF WORK In this role, Niche Planning Studio provided an accurate briefing paper that synthesises relevant best practice case studies from a range of international and national examples to inform best practice planning with regard to higher density housing At this stage, Stonnington City Council was responding to recent efforts by inner-Melbourne Local Government Municipalities to develop more comprehensive design, siting and layout guidelines for higher density residential buildings. Specifically, Council was interested in understanding how similar inner city Councils are responding to development and population pressure through housing strategies relating to minimum dwelling size and design standards. Niche Planning Studio undertook a thorough process of research relating to specific international and national case studies and liaised specifically with the City of Melbourne, contacts in NSW on SEPP64 and contacts from the Office of State Government Architect to ensure Stonnington City Council was provided with the most up to date and relevant information. LOCATION ANNUAL VALUE Stonnington $10,000 START/END DATE CLIENT October 2013 - November 2013 Stonnington City CouncilNICHE Image Source: urbanmelbourne.info PLA NNIN GST UD I O

METROPOLITAN PLANNING STRATEGY REVIEWDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio was approached by Stonnington City Council toprovide advice on the soon to be released Draft MetropolitanPlanning Strategy (MPS). The MPS outlined various transport, activitycentre, and local centre points on the municipality of Stonnnington,Stonnington was to see change in the wake the MPS. As part ofunderstanding Stonington’s role within the MPS, Niche PlanningStudio reviewed all information contained within Stonningtonssubmission to the Discussion Paper ‘let’s talk about the future’and reviewed draft Metropolitan Planning Strategy andassociated documents in light of key issues for Stonnington.In addition, Niche Planning Studio coordinated a responseto the draft Metropolitan Planning Strategy for Stonningtonwhich included:o Feedback from the communityo Feedback from key stakeholders internally (linking in adopted and proposed strategies, Council plan etc) – through meetings / workshopso Prepare Council report (to be negotiated)Finally, Niche Planning Studio, assisted Stonnington in allcommunity engagement activities in line with EngagementPlan.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT ANNUAL VALUEStonnington September 2013 - October 2013 Stonnington $11, 200 City CouncilNICHE Image Source: Plan Melbourne PLA NNIN GST UD I O

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

PORT HEDLAND DEVELOPMENT PLANSDESCRIPTION OF WORKThis WA project enabled Niche Planning Studio to work together with Blaxland In addition to the preparation of structure plan and subdivision documentation,Property Developers, Macroplan Dimasi, DPS Urban Designers, Port Hedland Niche Planning Studio undertook high level strategic discussions within governmentCouncil and the Western Australian Planning Commission to guide two to ensure that key environmental, social and economic constraints were addressedDevelopment Plans and subsequent Plans of Subdivision from inception through to within a timely manner.approval and implementation. Excellent relationships with planners within the Western Australian Planning Commission,Based on our comprehensive planning and property experience within Western Department of Planning and Town of Port Hedland ensured the facilitation of aAustralia and our network of government and consultant contacts in regional and number of planning approvals and amendments within efficient time periods. As ametropolitan WA, Niche Planning Studio was engaged to facilitate the result, a high level Development Plan ensuring the protection of Telstra infrastructuredevelopment of an infill parcel of land within the Port Hedland townsite. This parcel while maintaining high residential yields and environmental protection was returned.was previously constrained by infrastructure buffers and a complex arrangement Niche Planning Studio looks forward to continuing to prepare and implement Structureof fragmented government land parcels. Plans, Plans of Subdivision and Design Guidelines within regional and metropolitan WA.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual ValuePort Hedland August 2012 - July 2014 Blaxland Property Development and $ 27 million Macroplan DimasiNICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

METROPOLITAN REGIONAL SCHEME AND TOWN PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT DESCRIPTION OF WORKThrough strong relationships with the WAPC and Local Councils, Niche PlanningStudio was approached by several landowners in the Baldivis area to facilitatethe re-zoning of private land to encourage future development.The sites, located within the City of Rockingham represent the remaining logicalextension of the Urban Zone within Baldivis. The breadth of experience NichePlanning Studio has in understanding and assisting with the strategic developmentof land allowed us to provide timely and essential advice regarding the necessity ofinitiating a Metropolitan Regional Scheme (MRS) amendment and a Town PlanningScheme (TPS) amendment to rezone land parcels within the area from Rural to Urban,providing a statutory rationale for the future development of land.In addition, through our team’s experience in Local Government we advised thatthe support of many landowners would help the justification for re-zoning land asspot re-zonings is an uncommon occurrence. Following a positive outcome, NichePlanning Studio will be able to assist any future development options from thestructure planning stage through to the lodgement of development applicationswith the help of our statutory and design team.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual ValueBaldivis November 2014 - present Multiple $5,000,000 landownersNICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

OUTDOOR ADVERTISING - ADSHEL AND DIADEMSource: Adshel Source: City of Source: Diadem Wanneroo DESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio has proven experience providing ongoing policy review and The specific requirements of these Clients required us to be able to provide adviceadvice services relating to Outdoor Advertising Policy across a diverse range of across multiple Local Government Areas and Planning Schemes and have a thoroughAustralian municipalities and states. As a result of this background, Niche was understanding of varying application requirements. Additionally, it was important thatappointed by advertising consultants Adshel and Diadem to provide specific we could respond to the unique needs of a range of application types and projectadvice and prepare, lodge and secure planning permits for a range of outdoor specific technical issues, including high rise building identification signs, tram shelteradvertising projects in Victoria and Queensland. advertising, static and digital mediums and banner signs.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value Within the context of these projects, Niche has delivered multiple planning permit and signage licenses in Queensland and Victoria and assisted a suite of institutionalQueensland Ongoing Adhsel and Diadem $20,000 clients to achieve high quality advertising outcomes. Niche’s ability to deliver permits without significant delays and flexibly respond to changes in project scope, buildingNICHE requirements and advertising type reflects our commitment to a planned, consultative permit process that privileges the requirements of individual clients. PLA NNIN GST UD I O

LOT YIELD ANALYSIS - ALKIMOS EGLINGTON Source: City of WannerooDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio worked in partnership with David Lock Associates to provide Our role was to provide a peer review service and assist in the preparation of aspecialist planning advice to Landcorp and Woodsome Management Pty Ltd in the detailed lot yield plan to meet both client and government density expectations. Thispreparation of the Alkimos Eglington District Structure Plan (DSP) and Local Structure plan proposed a variety of lot sizes to cater for the varied market expected toPlan (LSP) located in Perth’s north-west corridor. purchase land in the Alkimos-Eglington corridor. Small lot product aimed at young professionals and singles included rear-loaded cottage lots, four packs with commonSpecifically, Niche Planning Studio provided strategic advice to facilitate the driveways and apartment sites designed around the proposed town centre and areasplanning and design of residential lots within the 2600ha coastal landholding of open space. Medium density sites more appropriate for family living were alsowhich is expected to accommodate a total population of up to 50,000 people. proposed with an average density of R30. The design prepared by David Lock also looked to offer large lots on undulating land and on the periphery of the site.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENT Annual Value Our work assisted DLA in creating a “master-planned coastal community of globalAlkimos Eglington April 2012- October 2012 Private $4,000,000 significance that is moving towards carbon-neutral living”.District Structure DeveloperPlanNICHE PLA NNIN GST UD I O

RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION - JOONDALUP, WADESCRIPTION OF WORKThrough extensive work with private developers and a consistently positive track In addition to the submission of subdivision layout plans for Council, detailed 3Drecord, Urban Designer Matthew Patullock was assigned the task of aiding the renders based on the architects initial design of the development were prepared.approval of an R60 residential subdivision. This project required the expertise of an The application, referred to the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT), was subsequentlyurban designer with an acute understanding of how graphic representation is used approved, with the 3D renders being crucial to visually demonstrate how theas a tool to influence conceptual understanding of space. development was sympathetic and reflective of the local streetscape.The site, situated in a standard residential area was initially only able to support a As Principal Urban Designer, Matt ensured the efficient use of the site by complyinglow density dwelling yield. However, with Matt’s design experience he successfully with best practice grouped development techniques, utilising well-designed privateachieved an approval for three units with an additional studio for the site. open spaces, ensuring maximum exposure to solar access and incorporating CPTED guidelines. The result is an effective and well thought out design that is bothLOCATION START/END DATE aesthetically appealing and responsive to the environment.University Viillage, April 2010 - October 2010 CLIENT Annual ValueJoondalup HE Private $7,000,000NIC Developer PLA NNIN GST UD I O

TASMANIA

THE GREATER LAUNCESTON PLANDESCRIPTION OF WORKNiche Planning Studio partnered with project leader Geografia in the preparation of the Greater Launceston Plan (GLP)on behalf of Launceston City Council. Specifically, our role related to undertaking multiple rounds of stakeholder engagementin order to inform and refine the preparation of the Plan. The GLP is a community vision that provides an evidence basedframework for sustainable land use planning and management of development and investment in the Greater Launceston area.The GLP was initiated by the City of Launceston through the Liveable Cities Programadministered through the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure and Transport.This plan will encompass the City of Launceston along with other municipalities inthe Greater Launceston Region such as George Town, Meander Valley, NorthernMidlands and West Tamar. The City’s role as a key regional centre for infrastructureprovision, population growth and economic activity underscores theimportance of effective long term planning.Niche Planning Studio provided valuable input into the preparation andfacilitation of a detailed stakeholder engagement process and thedistillation of key inputs to the Plan. The GLP was conceived as acommunity driven strategic project and as such meaningful consultationwas a fundamental determinant of its long-term efficacy. This engagementwas conducted over the span of 12 months and consisted of multiplestages. The depth and rigour of the engagement process has ensured thatall relevant stakeholders were consulted and their input incorporated intothe final plan.LOCATION START/END DATE CLIENTLaunceston, Tasmania August 2012 - October 2013 Launceston City CouncilANNUAL VALUE$320,000NICHE Image Source: The Greater Launceston Plan PLA NNIN GST UD I O