Delegated Report - Code - Planning MCU25 0057, OPW25 0078 & RAL25 0010 (As Published) · MCU25/0057

                            d.      allow for space and landscaping to be provided between buildings including
                                    adequate area at ground level for landscaping with trees, shrubs, outdoor living
                                    and utilities;
                            e.      be consistent with the predominant character of the surrounding area; and
                            f.      protect the natural character and avoid adverse impacts on ecologically important
                                    areas such as national parks, waterways and wetlands.

               The following provides an assessment against Performance Outcome PO12 of the Medium
               Density Residential Zone Code:
               The proposed southern side boundary setback of 2 metres is considered to provide an appropriate
               level of residential amenity for both occupants of the subject site and adjoining properties. Acoustic
               privacy is maintained, as this interface is not intended for active use or outdoor living purposes,
               but rather functions as a circulation space providing access to the rear of the site.
               Windows located within the stairwells are oriented toward internal hallways and do not directly
               overlook habitable rooms or private open space areas. These windows have been conditioned and
               annotated to comply with Council’s standard condition for ‘Protection of Privacy’. Additionally,
               windows associated with powder rooms along this elevation are proposed to be fitted with
               translucent glazing to further mitigate potential privacy impacts.
               The combination of the proposed built form, privacy treatments, and the functional use of the side
               setback ensures that the reduced setback will not result in unreasonable overlooking or visual
               intrusion into adjoining habitable areas. A separation distance of approximately 6 metres is
               maintained between the proposed development and existing dwellings at 7 and 13 George Street,
               which contributes to maintaining acoustic and visual privacy between properties.
               Existing vegetation along the side boundaries is limited and is not being retained. The submitted
               landscape plans show that a total of 25 x 45L Fraser Island Apple Trees and 4 x Cabbage Palms
               (advanced stock), which will help buffer the development along the side boundaries. The submitted
               plans also indicate that overall, more than 40% of the site is landscaped, with of 60% of this area
               being soft landscaping.
               The proposed built form is consistent with the established character of the streetscape, which
               includes other two-storey dual occupancies with reduced side setbacks, such as the adjoining
               development at 13 George Street (MCU18/0087 – see extract from plans in Figure 5), which has
               a roof and some walls along the southern elevation that are setback 1.5m from the property
               boundary.




                Figure 5 – Extract of Approved Plan for MCU18/0087 at 13 George Street, which shows that there are reduced
                  (1.5m) side setbacks established next door for parts of the building between 4.5 metres and 7.5 metres in
                                                                   height

               Matters relating to the protection of natural character and ecologically significant areas are not
               applicable to this assessment, as the site is not located in proximity to mapped environmental
               values such as national parks, waterways, or wetlands.


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Document Set ID: 24104255
Version: 15, Version Date: 15/10/2025