Statement regarding planning decision at 323 High Street Northcote

Published on 27 April 2026

On 24 April 2026, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) issued their decision regarding 323 High Street, Northcote.

The decision sets aside Council’s earlier refusal of the application and has directed that the planning permit be amended and reissued.

During the process, Council raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposal on the character, amenity and operation of the Northcote Activity Centre.

Council respects the Tribunal’s decision and will now work with the applicant and relevant stakeholders including local traders to ensure the amended permit conditions are implemented appropriately and that the development is managed in a way that minimises impacts on neighbouring businesses, residents and the broader local amenity.

Background:

The application for 323 High Street was received by Darebin on 2 July 2025 and was advertised until 2 October.

The application was advertised via the placement of two (2) advertising signs on the subject site and letters were also sent to owners/occupiers of properties within 150 metres of the subject site.

The application was reported to the 10 November Planning Committee Meeting. A decision was made at the meeting to refuse the application to amend the planning permit for 323 High Street.

The report is available online, as are the minutes from the planning meeting. 

The Applicant and Objectors were notified in writing. The Applicant appealed the decision at VCAT and Council was party to the appeal. 

A VCAT Compulsory Conference occurred on Wednesday 14 January 2026. The application then proceeded to the full VCAT hearing on 14–17 April 2026.