What will actually make the Suburban Rail Loop precincts work?
David Barnes, Director of Strategic Planning & Development Advisory, reflects on his experience providing planning evidence across the SRL station precincts.
 
Spanning six new stations from Box Hill to Cheltenham, the project signals a shift in how Melbourne grows, directing housing and jobs toward well-connected locations rather than continued outward expansion.
 
But the outcome won’t be decided by height limits or dwelling targets alone. The real test is whether these precincts become places people genuinely want to live in – comfortable, functional and suited to the community.