City of Darebin

## City of Darebin Planning Department Analysis **City of Darebin is generally regarded as a progressive, developer-friendly council** that actively supports housing growth and densification, particularly around activity centers and transport corridors. With ambitious targets of 69,000 new dwellings by 2051, the council demonstrates a **pro-development stance** that aligns with state housing objectives. **Processing times are typically moderate to good** for applications that align with strategic directions, with pre-application meetings encouraged and generally productive. Applications in growth areas like Preston Central, Northcote, and the High Street corridor tend to move more efficiently through the system. **Common delays often stem from heritage assessments** in areas with overlays, and vegetation protection requirements, particularly for established trees. The council's ongoing update of its 2007 Neighbourhood Character Study can create some uncertainty during assessment periods. **The planning department is reasonably well-resourced and takes a strategic approach** to development assessment, with staff generally knowledgeable about the council's growth priorities. They tend to be **flexible with applications that deliver housing outcomes** in preferred locations while maintaining stricter standards in minimal change areas. **Applicants should expect support for medium-density developments** in activity centers and along transport corridors, with the council actively encouraging subdivision and townhouse developments that contribute to housing supply targets.