MEMBERS of the broader community are invited for the first time to have their say on the current South Gippsland Planning Scheme as well as on a series of proposed improvements and modifications.
South Gippsland Shire’s nine councillors voted unanimously at the ordinary council meeting held in Leongatha on Wednesday February 15, 2023 to make the Planning Scheme’s four-yearly revision process open for public input.
Shire Mayor Cr Nathan Hersey said, “I am really excited to see this review go out to our community.
“The Planning Scheme Review is not normally something that goes out to the public, but this Council is committed to hearing from our community,” he said.
“If there is something you want to see addressed, raise it, because the best way to make sure something is happening on an issue that impacts you, is to raise it.”
The Planning Scheme engagement period runs from Wednesday February 15 to Wednesday March 15, 2023.
Residents and those who use the planning scheme regularly, such as property developers, are encouraged to provide their feedback online via https://yoursay.south gippsland.vic.gov.au/planning-scheme-review
The Review is a comprehensive look at the current state of the South Gippsland Planning Scheme and the changes required to bring it in line with legislation and community expectations.
The Review has already identified several what the Shire describes as “significant challenges” and “some work we need to do”, including effective planning, guidelines, controls and environmental and resource protection in both coastal and rural areas.
High on the list, too, is managing the future development of Nyora, which at present is the fastest-growing small town in the municipality and an “emerging district centre”.
The executive summary in the February 15 meeting agenda and minutes states that the “South Gippsland Planning Scheme has been reviewed in accordance with the State Government’s requirements.
“The Review includes both internal and external stakeholder engagement to capture the views of those who use and interact with the Planning Scheme on a regular basis.”
The summary also indicates that “the Review has found that the Planning Scheme generally serves our community and environment well, but that there are some recommended improvements to correct anomalies, improve processes, conduct and implement strategic projects, and advocate to higher levels of government for wider changes.”
The review has also looked at “whether the Scheme’s provisions, such as local planning policies, zones, overlays and schedules have been effective and efficient in achieving the objectives and strategies of the Planning Scheme and [aligning] with the Council Plan.”
A number of recommendations have already been made during the Review and are grouped into the following categories: Planning Scheme Amendments; Further Strategic Work; Process Improvements; Advocacy; and Other Work to Consider.
The review is also considering whether additional measures, including enforceable environment, and design and development overlays, are required for future use and amenity.
To provide your feedback, see https://yoursay.south gippsland.vic.gov.au/planning-scheme-review
There you can complete the survey, upload a written submission, or take part in the Ideas Board with fellow South Gippsland residents, and links to the four main Planning Scheme review documents.
These are the three-page, PDF-format South Gippsland Planning Scheme Review Report Summary, the 112-page Planning Scheme Draft Review Report, the 299-page Draft Review Report Marked-up Ordinance for Planning Scheme Amendment, and the 21-page Referral Responses list.
Feedback is now open and closes on Wednesday March 15, 2023.
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