VCAT Representation And Disputes

It is perhaps an unfortunate reality that when it comes to some development projects, there is no shortage of hoops to jump through.

To adhere the tick of approval from Council’s planning department, all applicants need a team of specialist experts who can help them navigate the swamp of red tape.

Of course, these regulations provide important checks and balances for the wider community to help ensure that future developments are of benefit to the wider community and fit in with the surrounding features and hallmarks of the local area.

At Terrain Consulting Group we strive to help our clients understand the requirements expected by Councils and help them through the planning process to ensure the greatest chance of success.

However, even the best laid plans can hit roadblocks.

Whether Council refuses your proposal or your accepted proposal receives objections from the local community, you want to ensure you work with a town planning consultant with good experience at the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

Why Do Developers Need VCAT Representation?

Land development or changing the use of land can be an emotional and sometimes a political exercise.

As Councillors change, so do their expectations from local land development projects, meanwhile neighbouring property owners and residents may also not be fond of a developer’s project for a number of reasons.

This can often mean that what was once acceptable will no longer be approved by Council.

When this happens, developers have a right to appeal the decision at VCAT.

Terrain Consulting Group has significant experience representing clients at VCAT. Our understanding of the VCAT process, procedures and relevant decisions ensure we can tailor your case for the best possible result on the day.

Often, we are contacted by developers who have recently had their planning applications refused or Council has imposed strict conditions on a planning permit. Even when we have not worked on the project from the early stages, we can help you understand Council’s decision and help you assess your proposal and if changes are required or if your original plans will stand up on their own at VCAT.

Our experience in handling building planning applications at VCAT is just another reason to work with Terrain Consulting Group.

Who else can appeal to VCAT? 

Of course, Council planning refusals are not the only time a developer might need to proceed VCAT and have preferred representation by a planning consultant.

Sometimes, Council may issue a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit and it may need to be defended at VCAT following an appeal by neighbouring residents or businesses.

While addressing Council issues are more a case of working with the facts, addressing issues from concerned residents can often adopt negotiation approach.

 

Often, objections can relate to how a proposed project will affect traffic in the local area, or how a proposal fits in with the neighbourhood character.

Terrain Consulting Group can help you understand these concerns and come up with practical solutions to resolving these disputes.

Wherever possible, we will seek a resolution outside of VCAT, but should VCAT representation be required, you can be confident in our ability to provide a solid Representation.

At Terrain Consulting Group, we have a full suite of surveying and planning consulting services for residential, commercial and industrial projects. Visit our land surveying services page or town planning services page for more information.  If you have an urban planning or town planning project that needs consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Contact Us For Further Information On Our Urban Planning Services Today

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Terrain Consulting Group

418 High St, Kew VIC 3101, Australia | 03 9853 3352 | admin@terrainconsulting.com.au

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