The Belconnen Community Council (BCC) welcomes the ACT Government’s consultation on the draft Missing Middle Design Guide, which provides Belconnen residents with greater clarity about future housing development in established suburbs.
This new Design Guide outlines how townhouses, duplexes, and other low-scale housing options could be integrated within Canberra’s existing footprint, proposing standards for design quality, liveability, and neighbourhood compatibility.
“We have heard the term ‘gentle urbanism’ discussed for years with residents consistently expressing uncertainty about what this actually means, and how our suburbs are expected to change” said Lachlan Butler, Chair of the BCC. “This process and final guide should clarify future development while ensuring our community retains input in shaping our suburbs.”
Mr Butler noted that these reforms address a key concern previously raised by the BCC regarding the restrictive 120m2 limitation on second dwellings.
“We previously cautioned that strict size limitations on secondary dwellings wouldn’t result in the new housing the government expected, and further reform was inevitable, creating additional uncertainty” Mr Butler said. “This revised approach attempts to address those limitations and create opportunities for practical, well-designed infill housing that meets the needs of families, downsizers, and first home buyers.”
The BCC supports a design-led planning system and sees this guide as a potential framework for ensuring that new housing development enhances streetscapes, neighbourhood character, and community needs.
“This potential can only be realised through proper consultation. We encourage all Belconnen residents to review and comment on these proposals to ensure their perspectives shape how our city evolves, and we call on the ACT Government to demonstrate genuine community engagement throughout this process” added Mr. Butler.
As Canberra grows, Belconnen will benefit from planning reforms that prioritise responsiveness, inclusivity, and sustainability. The BCC stands ready to work with the ACT Government and residents to ensure the finalisation and implementation of these guidelines reflects local values and priorities.
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You can find the print version of this media release here.
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