The Glenburnie Road Residents Association has established the 'Save Mitcham's Glenburnie Road Bushland' cause to allow donations to be received that go towards to the cost of a VCAT review of a Council decision for a high-density development at 50 Glenburnie Road. The estimated cost of the case is $9,000. The VCAT hearing is scheduled for 13th and 14th November 2023.

Inappropriate High-Density Development
Glenburnie Road is located in the Significant Landscape Overlay SLO7 that protects our bushland precinct and defines how dwellings are to be sited and, the bushland protected to sustain trees growth and maintain open space. Over recent years the loss of tree canopy in Whitehorse has been evidenced in the areas with the greatest tree protection. The 50 Glenburnie Road proposal for 4 large houses on the site will erode the valuable bushland amenity and tree canopy of Glenburnie Road. 

Glenburnie Road has been recognised by council and Mitcham residents who value the shady amenity and bushland feel provided by the bushy street verges. The road is a popular walk for residents and visitors to the area.   

The Case.
On Monday 28th November 2022, the City of Whitehorse Council granted a planning permit for the development of four double storey dwellings at 50 Glenburnie Road Mitcham. Ref WH/2021/1191.

The permit approval by council allows removal of significant tree canopy and four large double storey dwellings to be built. Boundary setbacks are insufficient for replacement of large canopy trees and a large area of the site is devoted to hard surface driveways and turning space. A copse of street trees and the largest tree on the site will go to allow the realignment of the driveway. Inadequate space is provided for large canopy tree to reach their optimum height. The development is contrary to Council's strategy to increase tree canopy in the area.

The proposal fails to address key objectives of the Whitehorse Planning Scheme and fails to take account of the site context in this important location. Other bushland protected areas will be more vulnerable should this development be allowed to proceed.

The Fund.
The Blackburn and District Environment Protection Fund is sponsoring fundraising for Save Mitcham's Glenburnie Road Bushland cause with donations supporting the Glenburnie Road Residents Association expenses in their VCAT appeal.

Residents have fought to sustain our bush precincts and retain dominance of tree canopy. Community individuals, philanthropic trusts, and businesses can make contributions to protect and enhance the natural environment of the City of Whitehorse.

The objectives of the Glenburnie Road Residents Association Inc. are to:

Help retain and enhance the unique, semi-rural environment of the area.
Encourage the growth and population of Australian flora and fauna, native to the area.
Maintain and further develop a community spirit amongst the street residents.
Co-ordinate the regular maintenance of the Road and its environment.
Represent the interests of the street residents to local and state bodies.