Subdivision on former school site gets green light
Published on 22 August 2025
The City of Whittlesea has moved to deliver a high-quality residential neighbourhood with 37 new homes, providing a much-needed increase to housing supply in Mernda.
Located on the former Mernda Primary School site in Johnsons Road, the new neighbourhood will deliver diverse housing types, including town houses and detached homes, set in a network of open spaces, mature trees and landscaping.
At its meeting on 19 August 2025, Council voted to subdivide the land at 17-19 Johnsons Road and facilitate delivery through sale of the land.
A considered development process and design guidelines will ensure delivery of high-quality architecture and environmental outcomes. This will ensure the neighbourhood is attractive and affordable to live in for future residents.
Proceeds from the development will be reinvested into future Council programs and projects.
To address demand for diverse housing options, six of the 37 lots will be reserved for affordable housing, in accordance with Council’s Social and Affordable Housing Policy and Strategy.
Council has secured a $7.1 million grant under the Federal Government’s Housing Support Program to assist in the delivery of road and civil infrastructure to the subdivision.
This includes improvements to Johnsons Road, between Schotters Road and the Plenty River, establishment of shared paths and public space, and protection of existing mature trees.
The development will help ease the growing demand for homes in Mernda and it is ideally located close to schools, public transport, medical services and the future regional sports precinct.
Council purchased the former Mernda Primary School site in 2015, after the school relocated to Everton Drive in 2011.
Initial plans endorsed in 2021 provided for 35 lots, including three reserved for affordable housing. Following extensive work to improve the subdivision’s layout, the number of lots has been increased to 37 to achieve better neighbourhood design.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Martin Taylor:
“Council is committed to increasing diverse housing options so residents can live in safe, secure, and well-situated neighbourhoods.”
“The Johnsons Road residential development in Mernda will increase housing in the municipality and help address the shortage of affordable housing options.”
“Council purchased this land in 2015 with the vision of creating a vibrant, connected neighborhood, and it is exciting to see this vision now becoming reality.”
“Proceeds from this development will be reinvested into future Council projects, delivering wider benefits across our community.”