Planning Changes Pave Way for Fishermans Bend Slender Tower

A project proposed for the Fishermans Bend Precinct has been approved with an amendment to the Port Phillip Planning Scheme after it was deemed that a planning permit application was not possible. 

FR Investments Group Pty Ltd submitted an application to the Victorian department of transport and planning for an amendment to the planning scheme in April, 2022. 

Victorian planning minister Sonya Kilkenny gave the go-ahead.

The 2746sq m site at 276-284 Ingles Street in Port Melbourne was the home of Winfield Automotive Services for 31 years prior to its sale in March, 2020 for $7.95 million, according to CoreLogic property records.

It is within the Fishermans Bend Precinct Structure Plan with no height restrictions. 

The application was for the demolition of the existing buildings on the site and the use and development of a multi-storey mixed-use building with retail, office and residential uses.

According to City of Port Phillip council documents, in April 2022 Urbis on behalf of FR Investments Group specifically applied for a part 53, 55 and 56-storey tower with a four-storey podium and two basement levels. 

It comprises 389 apartments, 8693sq m of commercial office space and 2088sq m of retail space.

Studio Kristen Whittle designed the plans for the tower. 

▲ A render of the Studio Kristen Whittle-designed tower proposed for the 2746sq m site at 276-284 Ingles Street, Port Melbourne.

The explanatory report from the Department of Transport and Planning said that amendment was needed to change a site-specific control so redevelopment could occur at the site.

Planning permits cannot be granted for the site as an Infrastructure Contributions Plan has not been approved as set out in the Infrastructure Contributions Overlay.

An infrastructure contributions system is being drafted by the Fishermans Bend Taskforce within the department.

“This amendment provides a pathway for development approvals within Fishermans Bend, in a timely manner, in accordance with the vision of Fishermans Bend Framework 2018, while an Infrastructure Contributions Plan is being prepared,” the report said.

ASIC records list Fernanda Ramos as the director of FR Investments Group Pty Ltd.

The Urban Developer contacted Urbis for comment.

Several developers are planning projects within Fishermans Bend including Gamuda, CDL and Greystar.