Expertise in Traffic and Parking Assessments for Successful Planning Outcomes

At ML Traffic Engineers, we specialize in providing comprehensive traffic engineering solutions that pave the way for seamless urban development and business transformations. Our team, led by Principal Michael Lee, delivers expert assessments tailored to meet the stringent requirements of local planning schemes, ensuring your projects not only comply with regulations but also thrive in their communities. With a proven track record in Melbourne and beyond, we help clients navigate complex challenges like car parking dispensations, public transport integrations, and on-street capacity evaluations.

A Case Study in Success: Supporting Jarhead Muay Thai’s Relocation

One shining example of our impact is our contribution to the planning application for the change of use at Level 1, 736A Plenty Road, Reservoir. Commissioned by Jarhead Muay Thai, we conducted a detailed car parking demand assessment in June 2025 to support their proposal to convert an existing 160m² office space into a restricted recreation facility—a martial arts gymnasium focused on Muay Thai training.

Key Contributions from ML Traffic Engineers

• Site and Operational Analysis: We meticulously reviewed the site’s leasable area, on-site parking (one allocated space), and proposed class schedules, which operate outside peak business hours (e.g., evenings on Tuesdays to Fridays and Saturday mornings). This ensured the assessment highlighted minimal overlap with surrounding commercial demands, emphasizing short-term participant parking needs.
• Public Transport and Accessibility Evaluation: Noting the site’s proximity within 400m of a Principal Public Transport Network (PPTN) zone, including tram services along Plenty Road, we applied a 10% discount to empirical parking rates, demonstrating how alternative transport options reduce reliance on private vehicles.
• Demand Calculation and Empirical Rates: Under Clause 52.06 of the Planning Scheme (noting the Monash reference but aligned with Darebin’s framework), we calculated the existing office’s 3-space shortfall as a potential credit. For the gymnasium, with up to 15 participants and 2 staff, we derived an empirical rate of 0.8 spaces per participant plus 1 per staff, resulting in a 13-space shortfall that could be accommodated off-site.
• On-Street Parking Surveys: Our field surveys within a 150m radius during peak class times revealed ample spare capacity—e.g., 17 spaces at 5:30pm weekdays (even during clearways) and over 45 on Saturdays—proving no adverse impact on local streets or traffic flow.
• Regulatory Compliance Response: We addressed all matters under Clause 52.06-7, from demand variations to pedestrian/cyclist access, providing a robust case for parking dispensation.

This thorough, data-driven report concluded that the proposed use would not result in adverse parking or traffic impacts, directly supporting the application’s success.

The Outcome: A Thriving Business Today

Thanks in part to our expert assessment, the application appears to have been approved, enabling Jarhead Muay Thai to establish operations at the site. As of February 2026, Jarhead Muay Thai is actively running classes at 736A Plenty Road, Reservoir, with a timetable including fundamentals sessions, all-levels training, and specialized boxing for Muay Thai. Their new location, operational since September 2025, continues to build a community of warriors through passion, discipline, and respect. This successful transition underscores how our services turn potential hurdles into opportunities for growth.

Why Choose ML Traffic Engineers?

• Expertise You Can Trust: With ABN 69 148 048 257 and based in Melbourne’s CBD at Suite 5.04, Level 5, 365 Little Collins Street, we bring years of experience in traffic impact assessments, parking surveys, and planning compliance.
• Tailored Solutions: Whether it’s empirical rate derivations, occupancy data analysis, or addressing PPTN benefits, we customize our approach to your project’s unique needs.
• Proven Results: Cases like Jarhead Muay Thai demonstrate our ability to secure approvals that lead to real-world success, minimizing risks and maximizing community benefits.
• Contact Us: Ready to advance your project? Reach out to Michael Lee at 0413 295 325, WhatsApp +61413295325, or traffic@mltraffic.com.au. Visit www.mltraffic.com.au or follow @mltraffic on X for more insights.

At ML Traffic Engineers, we’re not just consultants—we’re partners in your development journey. Let us help you engineer the path to approval and beyond!