The planning report details how removal of the buildings at 15-17 Eric Street, Preston will comply with relevant state and local planning policies and supports the planning application by demonstrating that the building are not significant in terms of their heritage value. The demolition is considered to align with strategic goals for housing and community needs.

The demolition will use a streamlined planning pathway under Clause 52.20 of the Darebin Council Planning Scheme.

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A tree assessment was carried out at the site.

The planted trees on site include a mix of native and non-native species. The trees were a mixed in quality and landscape significance.

There is no requirement to obtain a planning permit to remove trees at the site.

Tree removal will be considered at a later date and at this stage planning permission is only sought for removal of the buildings and structures at the site.

Protective measures will be utilised during demolition to protect street trees and retained trees on adjoining sites.

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The heritage impact statement assesses the heritage significance of the existing buildings that are covered by a Heritage Overlay.

Notable heritage features out lined in the statement of significance include:

• the external concrete stairs that project from the east elevations
• the chimneys across the roof profile
• the pressed metal rubbish bins on the balconies

Proposed demolition of the 2 flat blocks at 15-17 Eric Street would essentially result in the loss of the identified heritage values for this listed place.

It is observed that this impact can be seen in the wider context of the history of the Housing Commission of Victoria’s housing programs, given these were delivered by a state government agency on a state-wide rather local basis. In this context while the Eric Street flat blocks are of interest as representative examples of Housing Commission of Victoria walk-ups, they are not, as described in the statement of significance, ‘an unusual development of pre-cast concrete walk-up flats.’ There are numerous other examples (including earlier examples) of similar Housing Commission of Victoria concrete walk-up flats elsewhere in the metropolitan area.

As such it is concluded that the demolition of the building is acceptable.

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The demolition plan details the buildings and structures which are proposed to be demolished.

These are:

• the 2 residential buildings
• a retaining structure
• paved areas.

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