Plan Melbourne, the Napthine government's signature new planning policy, was meant to increase certainty, affordability and allow for Melbourne's sustainable population expansion. Who wouldn't drink to that?


But since its launch in May, and with its new residential zones coming into effect in two weeks, the details are causing a mixture of popping champagne corks and dry mouths.


Last week, The Sunday Age reported on how the policy would be applied across the city, with startling findings: while the government's rhetoric is that 50 per cent of suburbs will be ''protected'', that development will be easier elsewhere, and that all parties would enjoy more certainty, the imminent reality is very different. And variable.


Murray Mehmet and his dog 'Bill' on Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick.

Elsternwick resident Murray Mehmet, with his dog Bill, believes there is a mismatch between what is being developed and demand. Photo: Paul Jeffers



Several leafy suburbs have had their streetscapes and amenity largely set in aspic, with up to 93 per cent of their residential area given the highest development restriction. Suburbs elsewhere are expected to pick up the difference - to the consternation of some residents.