Working with the Community

Epworth Richmond has held a series of meetings to consult with local residents and broader community regarding the redevelopment plans. The following planning assessment has been undertaken by Urbis with regard to the planning application:

Strategic planning

• Development and use of the site is consistent with the site zoning and policy aspirations for the medical and health services in the area
• Epworth is a large, existing institution set within a residential area
• It is considered that the redevelopment achieves a thoughtful and respectful design that responds to the institutional function of the Hospital and improves the architectural form of the existing hospital, while respecting the heritage character and finer grain of the surrounding development.

The height and massing of the development

• It is considered to be appropriate in height and massing, given its long-term historical role as a hospital, the significant site coverage of existing building on the site and policy support for intensification of strategically located sites
• The floor plates sizes relate to efficient hospital operations and functionality
• The design has sought to reduce the perception of height and massing through a carefully considered design and façade treatment
• Wherever possible the building has been set back at higher levels, with masonry at the lower levels and increased glass as the building rises to visually lighten the structure.

Improved Streetscape

• The Streetscape is considerably improved along Erin Street and Bridge Road, though continuity the built form and public realm works including seating, trees and widened footpaths
• The impact of the proposal on the Bridge Road streetscape, which is affected by a Heritage Overlay, is considered to be positive.

Carparking and traffic generation

• The carparking provision and traffic generated as a result of the development are considered to be acceptable by transport consultants Cardno Grogan Richards
• Entry from Bridge Rd, Erin St and Leigh Place to the new combined carpark will improve access and facilitate the movement of traffic away from local streets
• The new entrance to the Emergency Department on Leigh Place will allow ambulances to drive in and drive out directly, considerably improving traffic flow on Erin Street by eliminating the need for ambulances to reverse and turn in the street.

Amenity

• The proposal will improve internal amenity for patients and staff, while respecting the amenity of the surrounding residential areas.

Sustainability

• The proposal will incorporate a number of sustainability initiatives, including water sensitive urban design of landscaping
• Fresh air systems, rainwater recycling and waste reduction have been planned wherever possible
• 131 bicycle parking spaces are provided for staff and visitors to the hospital.