ABOUT Keen Planning has been in operation since 2000 and we are a leading firm of town planning consultants in Melbourne, specialising in managing the town planning process. Our company has developed a highly effective system of managing the planning permit application process (our Proven Approach) throughout metropolitan Melbourne, which has resulted in a success rate of over 90 per cent through both Council and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). We focus on working closely with all parties throughout the planning process. We identify issues early and liaise with Council representatives throughout the planning permit process, presenting realistic solutions and gaining in principle support for your proposal as early as possible. As your town planning consultants we maintain clear, open communication with stakeholders and decision makers at all stages. We recognise the important values of a collaborative and team approach to each project. Our team is highly motivated to provide an excellent service to all our clients and gain support for quality developments that represent excellent living and working environments and will result in maximising the return on their investment. SERVICES PLANNING PERMITS Providing an upfront, honest appraisal of your proposal. Develop strategies and solutions to maximise your chances. Assisting you with the appointment of the required sub consultants. These may include an Architect, Land Surveyor, Arborist and Traffic Engineer. With our experience in the industry and well developed relationships we can recommend a range of highly specialised sub-consultants that will complement our planning role. Present your proposal to Council early in the process to gain in-principle support. Preparation of a comprehensive, compelling planning submission. Liaison with all levels at Council to give your proposal the best chance of success. Mediation and negotiation with objectors. Presentation at Consultation Meetings and Council Meetings. Communication with you throughout the process to ensure you are aware of the status of your project and the strategies involved. NEGOTIATION/MEDIATION Represent your project at mediation meetings, Council meetings and public forums. We know what to say, how to say it and how to liaise with third party stakeholders to reduce areas of disagreement. Assist project team members to appraise your proposal and minimise potential objections. Recommend practical solutions to maximise the success of your project. Seek agreements with objectors. Prepare written responses to objections. Represent you in meetings with decision makers. Provide you with representation at Tribunal and mediation hearings. PLANNING APPEALS Undertake a detailed analysis of the development plans. Clearly articulate the areas of risk and the best strategic approach to minimise these risks. Advise of what changes are required to the proposal to reduce contentious or high risk elements of the proposal. Assess the design principles, plan details and the quality of the presentation to ensure we best present your case to the Tribunal. Advise whether additional experts are required to support your proposal and best address any specific areas of concern. FEASIBILITY STUDIES Inspection of the site and surrounding area. A detailed assessment of the relevant planning controls that will influence the potential development yield for your site. Identifying key issues that will need to be addressed during the planning process. Outline options for the development of your site. These options may be guided by your preferred nature of development (e.g. Residential) or can be recommended by us. Provision of general built form parameters to assist you in understanding your likely yield. Outline of the likely stakeholders and consultants that will be involved in your application. Recommend a strategic approach to facilitate your development. LAND REZONING Provide an up-front appraisal of your chances of being successful. Recommend a strategic approach to enhance your changes of gaining approval. Liaison with all stakeholders involved to gain the buy-in needed to progress your application. Preparation of a detailed planning submission in support of your case. Assist in the appointment of the sub consultants required during the process. Co-ordinate your rezoning application. BUILDING DISPENSATION Increased site coverage. Reduced setbacks from boundaries. Higher and longer walls on boundaries. Increased front fence heights. Varied private open space / solar access provisions. We are always happy to offer reliable advice and answer any questions you may have. Give our team a call today!