Wodonga Council has taken the lead on a project with eight other municipalities, including Wangaratta, to research the benefits of including “environmental sustainable development” when designing housing estates.

It is expected most regions will need add 16 to 22 per cent extra dwellings over the next 20 years.

The ESD report looks at how to improve sustainability to cope with climate change, without creating unreasonable burdens on developers or home owners.

“By planning and designing for a hotter, drier climate, with intense and more frequent extreme weather events, the impacts of climate change can be reduced, improving amenity and liveability,” it stated.

“There is growing recognition that ‘housing affordability’ should not simply focus on upfront construction costs and that ongoing operational costs such as energy, water and mobility directly impact on affordability.” 

Whitebox Rise estate in Wodonga was used as an example of a “well-designed master planned subdivision”.

Its environmentally sustainable features include a grid-based layout of walkable streets and proximity to Wodonga’s central business area, which encourage people to walk and cycle; using almost 40 per cent of the area for conservation and parks; and using recycled water.

Wangaratta Council development services director Barry Green said the actions in the report would help to deliver environmental and financial benefits to residents living in new subdivisions.

“There are a number of improvements that could be made at a relatively low cost such as considering solar orientation for new lots, increasing shading, and improving stormwater drainage and reuse,” he said.

“Optimal dwelling orientation for passive solar gain can save households in Wangaratta approximately $460 per year in electricity costs.”

The research paper can be accessed at www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au and a survey will be open until October 27.