Traffic engineers servicing Bentleigh, Bentleigh East, Carnegie, Caulfield, Caulfield East, Caulfield North, Caulfield South, Elsternwick, Gardenvale, Glen Huntly, McKinnon, Murrumbeena, Ormond, Brighton East,St Kilda East. Navigating the Glen Eira Planning Scheme presents significant challenges for developers. The risk of a development application being delayed or rejected on traffic or parking grounds is a primary concern, creating uncertainty and potential for costly setbacks. A critical component for a successful submission is correctly undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council of Melbourne, a process with specific local nuances that are often poorly understood.
This professional guide provides a direct, comprehensive overview of the Glen Eira City Council’s requirements. We detail precisely what triggers the need for a traffic report, the essential data your assessment must include, and the standards your submission must meet for compliance. Our objective is to provide you with a clear checklist to ensure your report is robust and supports your application without issue.
By understanding these requirements, you can proceed with confidence, streamline the planning approval process, and select an experienced traffic engineering consultant who can deliver a compliant assessment tailored to Glen Eira’s specific criteria.
Key Takeaways
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Identify the key triggers based on your project’s scale, use, and location that mandate a formal traffic and parking report in Glen Eira.
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Master Glen Eira’s car parking requirements by correctly interpreting and applying the statutory rates outlined in Clause 52.06 of the Planning Scheme.
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Ensure compliance by understanding what a successful report entails beyond simple traffic counts when undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council of Melbourne.
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Align your proposal with Council’s objectives by understanding their focus on local amenity and character, a critical factor in the assessment of your application.
Table of Contents
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Why Glen Eira Council Prioritises Traffic and Parking Assessments
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Key Triggers: When is a Traffic Report Mandatory in Glen Eira?
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Core Components of a Compliant Glen Eira Traffic Impact Assessment
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Navigating Glen Eira’s Car Parking Requirements (Clause 52.06)
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The Assessment Process with ML Traffic Engineers: A Clear Pathway to Approval
Why Glen Eira Council Prioritises Traffic and Parking Assessments
For any new development within the City of Glen Eira, the council’s primary objectives are clear: maintain local amenity, ensure road network safety, and balance growth with sustainable infrastructure. Suburbs like Caulfield, Bentleigh, and Elsternwick are valued for their distinct character, which the council seeks to preserve. Successfully Undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council of Melbourne is the primary method for a developer to demonstrate that a project aligns with these strategic goals, rather than detracting from them.
To better understand the function of these reports, the following video provides a clear overview.
A professional traffic and parking report serves as a formal impact assessment, providing council planners with the objective data required to evaluate a proposal. It moves the discussion from subjective opinion to evidence-based analysis, showing how a development can be integrated safely and efficiently into the existing transport network. This technical documentation is crucial for a smooth and successful planning application process.
The Role of the Glen Eira Planning Scheme
The Glen Eira Planning Scheme is the key legal document that governs all land use and development in the municipality. It contains specific policies and controls that directly address traffic, car parking, access, and sustainable transport. Key clauses, particularly Clause 52.06 (Car Parking), dictate the standard requirements for parking provision and establish the framework for assessing any proposed variations. Your traffic report must directly address these clauses to be considered compliant.
Common Reasons for Council Scrutiny on Traffic
While all applications are assessed on their merits, certain proposals inherently attract a higher level of scrutiny from council’s traffic engineers. A robust report is non-negotiable if your project involves:
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Location: Development on or near busy arterial roads, classified roads, or complex intersections.
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High Trip Generation: Land uses known to generate significant vehicle movements, such as childcare centres, medical facilities, supermarkets, or fast-food restaurants.
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Access and Safety: Sites with constrained vehicle access points, potential sightline limitations for drivers, or complex internal circulation requirements.
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Parking Reductions: Any application that seeks a waiver or reduction in the standard car parking rates specified in the Planning Scheme.
Key Triggers: When is a Traffic Report Mandatory in Glen Eira?
A common misconception is that every development application requires a detailed traffic report. This is not the case. The requirement is triggered by the specific scale, proposed use, and location of your project within the Glen Eira Planning Scheme. Identifying the need for a traffic and parking assessment early in the design process is a critical step that prevents costly delays and requests for further information from Council. It streamlines your application and demonstrates due diligence from the outset.
Based on Proposed Land Use
Certain land uses inherently generate more vehicle and pedestrian activity, automatically triggering the need for assessment. Council will typically mandate a report for proposals including:
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High-traffic generators: Childcare centres, medical clinics, places of worship, and other places of assembly.
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Residential intensification: Medium to high-density developments such as apartment buildings and multi-unit townhouse sites.
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Commercial and retail activity: Any new or expanded shop, office, or restaurant that significantly increases site patronage and vehicle movements.
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Industrial operations: Warehouses or factories with frequent heavy vehicle movements that impact local road safety and pavement conditions.
Based on Parking and Access Changes
Beyond the type of land use, modifications to parking and site access are significant triggers. A formal assessment is almost always required when your proposal involves:
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A request to reduce or waive the statutory car parking rates outlined in the Glen Eira Planning Scheme.
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The creation of new vehicle crossovers or the modification or relocation of existing access points.
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A reliance on shared or off-site parking arrangements to meet demand.
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Any access or driveway design that deviates from standard requirements, such as Australian Standard AS 2890.1.
Pre-Application Meetings with Council
We strongly advise engaging in a pre-application meeting with Glen Eira Council planners. This meeting provides an invaluable opportunity to discuss potential traffic and parking concerns directly, clarifying Council’s expectations upfront. It helps define the precise scope required when undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council of Melbourne, ensuring no time is wasted on unnecessary analysis. ML Traffic’s senior engineers can attend these meetings on your behalf, providing expert representation to articulate the technical aspects of your project and establish a clear path forward.
Core Components of a Compliant Glen Eira Traffic Impact Assessment
Successfully undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council of Melbourne requires more than a simple vehicle count. It demands a structured, evidence-based report that methodically addresses every potential concern for council planners. A compliant assessment is a comprehensive document where each section is supported by robust data, detailed analysis, and expert opinion, presented in a logical format for efficient review.
A thorough report is built upon three core pillars of investigation:
Existing Conditions Analysis
This foundational step establishes the baseline against which the development’s impact is measured. It involves a meticulous documentation of the current environment, including:
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The surrounding road network hierarchy, traffic controls, and public transport services.
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On-site traffic surveys to establish accurate baseline traffic volumes during peak periods.
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A review of the area’s crash history using official data from the Department of Transport.
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An audit of existing pedestrian footpaths and cyclist infrastructure to assess active transport conditions.
Development Proposal & Traffic Generation
Here, we translate the development proposal into quantifiable traffic data. This section provides a detailed description of the proposed land use, followed by calculating the expected vehicle trips using established RMS/VicRoads traffic generation rates. This new traffic is then distributed onto the surrounding road network to accurately assess the performance impact on key local intersections, ensuring they continue to operate within acceptable limits.
Vehicle Access and Site Layout Review
The final critical component is a detailed review of the site’s design to ensure safe and efficient operation. We assess proposed driveways for compliance with Australian Standards (AS 2890.1), verify that adequate sight lines are available for vehicles entering and exiting the property, and perform Swept Path Analysis to confirm that service and waste collection vehicles can manoeuvre safely. Our full range of traffic engineering services covers all these essential technical analyses to ensure your design is functional and compliant from the outset.
Navigating Glen Eira’s Car Parking Requirements (Clause 52.06)
Inadequate car parking is a primary point of contention for development applications within the City of Glen Eira. The provision of on-site parking is governed by Clause 52.06 of the Glen Eira Planning Scheme, which sets the default statutory rates. A professional Car Parking Demand Assessment is the critical report used to calculate, justify, and document the proposed parking supply. Successfully undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council requires a meticulous and evidence-based approach to these specific council requirements.
Calculating Statutory Parking Demand
The initial step is to determine the ‘base case’ parking requirement as dictated by Clause 52.06. This involves correctly identifying your land use within the scheme’s tables and applying the specified rate. The calculation method varies depending on the use:
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Residential developments: Based on the number and type of dwellings (e.g., one, two, or three-plus bedrooms).
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Commercial/Retail use: Typically calculated per 100 square metres of leasable floor area.
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Industrial use: Often calculated per employee or gross floor area (GFA).
It is essential to correctly differentiate requirements for resident, staff, and visitor parking, as each has distinct considerations and may have different statutory rates.
Justifying a Parking Reduction
Proposing fewer spaces than the statutory requirement is possible but requires robust justification. A reduction must be supported by a comprehensive Car Parking Demand Assessment that demonstrates the lower provision will not negatively impact the amenity of the local area. Common grounds for seeking a reduction include excellent access to public transport, availability of on-street public parking, and shared parking opportunities with complementary land uses. This analysis must be supported by empirical data, first-principles assessment, and specific reference to Council’s local ‘Parking Policy’ to be successful.
Car Park Design and Layout Compliance
Beyond providing the correct number of spaces, the physical design and layout must be safe, efficient, and compliant. All aspects of the car park design are assessed against stringent Australian Standards. Key compliance areas include:
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Dimensions: Parking space and aisle widths must comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 2890.1:2004.
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Access: Ramp grades, transitions, and vertical clearances must be designed for safe vehicle passage, confirmed with swept path analysis.
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Accessibility: Provision of accessible parking spaces compliant with Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) requirements and AS/NZS 2890.6:2009.
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Circulation: The layout must facilitate safe and efficient internal vehicle and pedestrian movement with adequate sight lines.
For expert guidance ensuring your project meets these multifaceted requirements, contact the senior engineers at ML Traffic.
The Assessment Process with ML Traffic Engineers: A Clear Pathway to Approval
Navigating the town planning process requires a traffic engineering partner who provides clarity and certainty. At ML Traffic Engineers, our process is designed to be efficient, thorough, and transparent. We manage the entire traffic engineering component of your submission, leveraging our extensive experience within the City of Glen Eira to anticipate and address council expectations proactively. A core principle of our service is accountability: the senior consultant who provides your quote is the expert who completes the technical work.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Scoping
The process begins with a detailed review of your architectural plans and a discussion of your project’s specific requirements. Based on this, we provide a fixed-fee proposal that clearly outlines the scope of work, ensuring no hidden costs. Every project is directly overseen by our senior engineers, whose extensive qualifications are detailed on our about page, guaranteeing the highest level of expertise from start to finish.
Step 2: Data Collection and Detailed Analysis
Once engaged, our team takes control of all necessary fieldwork. We organise and manage traffic surveys, site inspections, and data collection to build a robust evidence base for the assessment. Our structured approach to undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council of Melbourne ensures all technical requirements are met. This includes detailed analysis of traffic generation, car parking demand, and the preparation of essential technical drawings like vehicle Swept Path diagrams compliant with Australian Standards.
Step 3: Report Preparation and Submission
The final stage involves drafting a comprehensive report that directly addresses the specific requirements of the Glen Eira Planning Scheme. We liaise closely with your architect or town planner to ensure a coordinated and seamless DA submission. Our commitment extends beyond submission; we provide ongoing support to address any questions or Requests for Information (RFI) from council. To begin the process and secure a clear pathway for your project’s approval, contact our team for an obligation-free quote.
Secure DA Approval with a Compliant Glen Eira Traffic Assessment
Navigating the complexities of Glen Eira’s planning scheme requires precision and expertise. The key to a successful development application is a clear understanding that the Council’s requirements for traffic reports are mandatory and meticulously detailed, particularly concerning Clause 52.06 parking provisions. Successfully undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council of Melbourne is not a procedural step; it is a critical component that demands a compliant, professionally prepared report to avoid costly project delays.
At ML Traffic Engineers, we provide the specialist guidance necessary to secure your approval. With over 30 years of direct experience negotiating with Victorian councils, our senior, registered traffic engineers have a proven track record in achieving positive outcomes for our clients. We ensure you have direct access to our experts, providing the authoritative advice needed to move your project forward.
Ensure your development proceeds without unnecessary complications. Request a quote for your Glen Eira development project and let our expertise streamline your path to DA approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare a Traffic and Parking Assessment for Glen Eira Council?
A standard Traffic and Parking Assessment for a Glen Eira Council submission is typically completed within 1 to 2 weeks. This timeframe allows for a thorough site inspection, necessary traffic data collection, detailed analysis against council policies and Australian Standards, and final report preparation. More complex projects may require additional time, which is always communicated clearly at the outset of the engagement.
What is the typical cost for a traffic report for a development application?
The professional fee for a traffic report for a development application in Glen Eira generally ranges from A$2,000 to A$5,000 plus GST. The final cost is determined by the project’s scale and complexity. When undertaking Traffic and Car Parking Impact Assessments in Glen Eira Council of Melbourne, we provide a fixed-fee proposal upfront, ensuring complete cost transparency for our clients.
What happens if the Glen Eira Council requests further information (RFI) about our traffic report?
If Glen Eira Council issues a Request for Further Information (RFI), our senior traffic engineers will conduct a detailed review of the council’s queries. We then prepare a formal response addressing each point and amend the report as required. This is a standard part of the development application process, and our extensive experience ensures we can address council feedback efficiently to progress your application.
Can you assist with projects in neighbouring councils like Bayside or Stonnington?
Yes. While we possess specialist knowledge of Glen Eira’s planning scheme, our team regularly prepares traffic and parking assessments for projects across metropolitan Melbourne. We have a comprehensive understanding of the specific requirements of neighbouring councils, including Bayside and Stonnington. Our expertise is applied with the same rigorous, standards-compliant approach, regardless of the municipality.
Does ML Traffic have experience with VCAT appeals related to traffic issues in Glen Eira?
Yes, ML Traffic has significant experience representing clients at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). Our senior engineers are proficient in preparing expert evidence and acting as expert witnesses for appeals concerning traffic, parking, and access issues in Glen Eira. We can robustly defend the technical merits of our assessments under the scrutiny of a tribunal hearing, providing critical support for your appeal.
Why can’t my architect just write the traffic statement for the town planning application?
Architects are experts in building design, not transport planning. A credible traffic report requires specialised analysis of traffic flow, parking demand, and vehicle access in accordance with Australian Standards (e.g., AS 2890.1). Glen Eira Council requires these assessments to be prepared by a qualified and experienced traffic engineer to ensure the development’s impacts are professionally evaluated for safety, compliance, and functionality.
