What’s wrong with density?
The Property Council has released detailed research on community perceptions about medium density housing in Melbourne.
The research explored the public’s key experiences with, and expectations of, population growth, housing development, affordability and urban sustainability. It also identified ‘top of mind’ associations with ‘medium density’ and what it could mean for their community.
The findings of the quantitative and qualitative research program provide a clear insight around negative, positive and area specific concerns. Eight focus groups were conducted in the inner north-west and inner south east of Melbourne.
Key findings
Attitudes regarding medium density housing and development in established suburbs are often ingrained and divisive. However, the research found that improved communication and community engagement could make a major difference to allay concerns.
Two significant findings include:
-The research found that a majority of Victorians agree that low rise, medium density housing is a great opportunity for new home buyers to enter the market without having to move to the outer suburbs.
-Similarly, there are high levels of support for the view that low rise, medium density housing creates opportunities for older people to stay in their own neighbourhoods as they age.
These research findings demonstrate the importance of low-rise medium density housing to keep a mix of people at different ages and stages of life to stay within their neighbourhood. However, much more needs to be done to turn around negative perceptions and revisit unpopular planning processes.
The research also found that a majority of people wanted to hear about developments from their local council and that many more residents would support development if there was increased community consultation.
Structural changes to the planning system and the provision of consistently high quality developments could lead to even higher support in the medium to long term. The current planning process of advertising a proposal with a sign, requiring a neighbour to view plans and understand planning technicalities was heavily criticised in focus groups.
Areas of concern were predominately related to the perceived consequences associated with increased population, such as a lack of parking, not enough information for neighbouring residents, privacy for neighbours and increased noise.
For more info on the research please contact the Property Council on 96 8300.