The Previous Use: An overgrown weed filled mess of a Garden
Before activation, the block was used as an overgrown weed filled space. Whilst kind of expected of a home owner who doesn't care about gardening, this was not a “transport purpose” and therefore did not align with the purpose of TRZ2 as set out in the Hobsons Bay Planning Scheme and the Victoria Planning Provisions. TRZ2 zoning exists to facilitate transport-related uses — such as depots, yards, parking facilities, and related activities. A garden may be pleasant, or in our case it may have been an overgrown mess, but it is not a transport use.
Before: Overgrown weed filled Garden (Non-compliant)
- Weed filled mess of a garden
- No transport purpose
- Did not advance the objectives of TRZ2
After: Trailer Hire Yard (Compliant)
- Clear transport purpose consistent with TRZ2
- Professional operations and site management
- Improved safety, presentation, and community benefit
The Current Use: Trailer Hire Facility
In April 2025, the site was activated as a trailer hire facility. We invested in:
- Secure infrastructure – stainless steel retractable bollards, lockable chains, GPS-tracked trailers.
- Accessibility upgrades – curb ramps for safe trailer entry/exit.
- Site presentation – neat, well-maintained surfaces and landscaping.
- Live security – high-definition CCTV with live streaming.
This is not only consistent with the letter of TRZ2 zoning, but with its spirit and public purpose.
Why This Matters
The planning system is designed to encourage land uses that match zoning intent. In this case:
- Old use (weed filled garden) → non-compliant with TRZ2.
- New use (trailer hire) → compliant with TRZ2.
By activating the block for trailer hire, we have:
- Increased alignment with zoning purpose.
- Improved site safety and presentation.
- Delivered a community benefit by providing affordable, accessible trailer hire.
The Enforcement Paradox
Any suggestion that the activation constitutes a “change of use” requiring enforcement would mean Council prefers:
That position is not only inconsistent with the objectives of TRZ2, but also contrary to good planning practice and common sense. Also - we have not changed use. We have merely activated the sites TRZ2 zoning properties.
Conclusion
Our activation demonstrates what zoning is supposed to achieve — the right use, in the right place, for the right reasons. The result is a site that looks better, functions better, and finally lives up to the transport purpose the zone was created for. At Spotswood Trailers, we’re proud to be setting the example.