Background
Maitland Council is progressing planning for the Anambah Urban Release Area, requiring a robust and valid basis for infrastructure contributions and land acquisition. The project involved understanding how different land uses and zoning outcomes influence land value and development feasibility across the precinct.
Complexity
Key considerations included:
- Variation in zoning across the release area, including residential, environmental, local centre and public recreation land
- Presence of flood-affected land influencing development yield and timing
- Need to align valuation outcomes with contributions planning frameworks
- Balancing feasibility outcomes with strategic planning objectives
Solution
EPS undertook a structured valuation and feasibility assessment to inform Council’s contributions planning and acquisition strategy.
- Site and Planning Analysis: Reviewed zoning, development controls and physical constraints across the precinct to establish development potential
- Highest and Best Use Assessment: Assessed economically viable land uses across different zones and parcel sizes, reflecting market and planning realities
- Feasibility Modelling: Prepared development feasibility models using EstateMaster Developer software to test subdivision outcomes and viability
- Valuation Inputs: Derived underlying land values informed by development feasibility, market benchmarks and site constraints
EPS worked closely with Council to ensure assumptions were transparent, aligned with planning objectives and suitable for use within formal contributions planning processes.
Impact
The work provided a clear and strong evidence base for contributions planning.
- Supported preparation of a future contributions plan grounded in feasibility and market reality
- Informed land acquisition strategy with consistent and transparent valuation inputs
- Reduced risk of misalignment between planning outcomes and development viability
- Enabled Council to progress precinct planning with greater confidence and clarity
Image Source: Maitland City Council, https://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2025-11/Draft%20Anambah%20URA%20Development%20Control%20Plan%20-%20Final%20for%20Exhibition.pdf
