^{Image: Preston Market Urban Design Report – Addendum (Architectus, 2022)}

Preston Market is highly valued by the community, but is privately owned, and exists on a large, strategic site adjoining a recently redeveloped train station.

The Planning Panel Review considered the merits of the proposed Structure Plan (generally 3-14 storeys), and a more intensive proposal intended to generate greater yield around the Market and Station.

Simon's analysis of both the proposed Structure Plan (prepared by the VPA) and the higher-density scheme by the landowner considered streetscape profiles and proportions (pedestrian experience), solar access to streets and public spaces, within and outside the precinct, and the integration of the Market with other future land uses.

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The Panel Report states that the Standing Advisory Committee found Mr McPherson’s discussion of what constitutes mid-rise built form to be compelling. He suggested that 6-12 or potentially up to 14 storeys would constitute mid-rise development and that mid-rise development will support a compact, walkable city. His discussion of the benefits of human-scaled cities and mid-rise ambience was useful when determining the most appropriate height.

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