MCU250042 - Response to Information Request · MCU25/0042

Issue – Site Cover and Plot ratio
Information Required
1.         Both site cover and plot ratio maximums are Performance Outcomes of the Medium Density
           Residential zone code. Provide site cover and gross floor area calculations in accordance with Noosa
           plan 2020 for each level of the Dwelling house.
2.         Based on this assessment, provide amended plans and elevations to comply with the site cover and plot
           ratio Performance Outcomes 10 and 11 of the Medium Density Residential zone code.
3.         Provide additional clarification of the purpose and area of ‘plant and equipment’ proposed at the lower
           level which contributes to gross floor area and plot ratio of the Dwelling.

RESPONSE:

The original submission provided for a site cover of 42.7% and a plot ratio of 0.5371:1.

Site Coverage

The purpose of defining a site coverage is to ensure that there is not an overdevelopment of the site but more
importantly to ensure the site provides for adequate space for landscaping, open space and other amenities.

The design has been revisited together with a review of the definition and intent of site cover to ensure the
proposal has been considered appropriately.

The definition of site coverage is:

site cover of development, means the portion of the site, expressed as a percentage, that will be covered by a
building or structure, measured to its outermost projection, after the development is carried out, other than a
building or structure, or part of a building or structure, that is—

1.                in a landscaped or open space area, including, for example a gazebo or shade structure or;
2.                a basement that is completely below ground level and used for car parking; or
3.                the eaves of a building; or
4.                a sun shade.

Open space – in terms of a single dwelling house is defined as:

Private open space refers to outdoor areas exclusively for the use of residents of a dwelling, typically including
backyards, decks, balconies, terraces, and front gardens. It's designed to facilitate indoor-outdoor living and
can be integrated into the building's overall design. Private open space is not intended for purposes like bin
storage, laundry drying, or vehicle parking.

Private open space facilitates the seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for flexible
living arrangements and enjoyment of the outdoors.

Access to private open space can positively impact physical and mental health by providing opportunities for
exercise, relaxation and connection to nature.

The proposal has been designed to ensure the open space areas within the dwelling house are usable and fit
for purpose. The site is constrained by slope and is small in size.

Based on the above, we have revisited the proposal and the site cover calculations. The revised proposal plans
illustrate large open space areas such as the alfresco area on ground level (providing a shaded area to support
the recreational use of the swimming pool and to provide an extension to the living areas. The proposal also
provides for a large balcony on the upper level to once again provide for recreation and relaxation.

Generally for a dwelling house open space is regarded as the area intended for use by the resident as their
designated outdoor area, extension to the living space, provides for relaxation, dining and recreational