A surprise application by the state government could deliver a $3 billion apartment-based mixed-village in Burwood, with the relocation of Mount Scopus Memorial College’s campus. The 10.6 hectare site is earmarked for 3900 dwellings in towers up to 20 storeys.
The proposal is being channelled through the state government’s Development Facilitation Program, with Engage Victoria exhibiting an amendment to the Whitehorse Planning Scheme. This amendment affects four precincts across 245, 247 and 249 Burwood Highway and 7,9 and 11 Milford Avenue.
They allow for residential buildings between three and 20 levels containing 3900 dwellings. Applying an average worth of $650,000 per unit, the end-value of the residential component would circle $2.5 billion.
Adding commercial elements, such as hotels, offices, and shopping centres, including a 2000 square metre supermarket, this could approach $3 billion. A portion of the site might also be allocated for Deakin University, which has been gradually expanding across what was once the Burwood Teachers’ College.
Mount Scopus announced in late 2024 it would relocate to a new campus on seven hectares it has secured the right to buy – the western edge of Caulfield Racecourse – for approximately $195 million from the Melbourne Racing Club. Deakin University is located next to the proposed site, and its expansion could be facilitated by the redevelopment.
Whitehorse City Council has raised concerns about the development intensity, citing the replacement of school ovals and the potential demolition of the Besen Centre. Council is also disappointed by the limited community consultation undertaken by the state government.
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The planning scheme amendment will be displayed until September 1, with Planning Minister Sonja Kilkenny expected to approve it next quarter.
The project’s construction cost has been put at $34.5 billion, with the state government’s Development Facilitation Program aiming to streamline the approval process.
The proposed Suburban Rail Loop station Burwood station is located within 500 metres of the site, making it an attractive location for developers, particularly those looking for investment opportunities in the area.
The community will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposal until September 1. The planning minister’s approval is expected to be a key factor in determining the project’s fate, with the potential for significant impacts on the local community and economy.
More information on the proposal and the planning scheme amendment can be found on the state government’s planning website.
