Please note: this is an old article
It was published in October 2018, so the information may be out-of-date.
Over the past year Council has seen a number of developments occur making use of commercial space on first storeys in the CBD for housing.
There have been several instances where unused space above shops have been converted into living spaces – a concept that Council strongly supports. There are many benefits from increased density of residential space in CBDs such as – increased activation of public space, increased audience for local businesses, greater passive surveillance and safety, increased night-time activity, utilisation of unused property and land and decreased reliance on vehicles and transport.
Council has contacted property owners and developers in regards to opportunities to increase this development and it is pleasing that the concept of shop-top living is starting to take hold in Shepparton. There are numerous properties and locations that would be suitable for this development with demand for downsized and low-maintenance housing only set to increase with an ageing population and demand for affordable housing.
Council continues to work with property owners and developers to facilitate such projects as part of its ongoing efforts to reinvigorate and develop the Shepparton CBD.
If you have any questions at all please do not hesitate to contact Council's Place Manager Tim Russell on 5832 9501.