Chance for input on flood overlay plans

RESPONSES have begun to flow in as the City of Ballarat invites residents, landowners and stakeholders to share their thoughts on flood planning controls across 11 local waterways.

On public exhibition until 29 May, Ballarat Planning Scheme Amendment C217ball proposes to introduce new flood and stormwater overlays into the Ballarat Planning Scheme, based on last year’s Ballarat 11 Waterways Flood Study.

The study was prepared for the city in partnership with the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority and was adopted by the council at a planning delegated committee meeting last December.

The amendment applies to land identified as being subject to inundation during a one-in-100-year flood event associated with the Yarrowee River, Gnarr Creek, Canadian Creek and tributaries, Bonshaw Creek, Redan Creek, Kensington Creek, Chase Waterway, Little Bendigo Creek, Hit or Miss Gully, Warrenheip Creek and Ryans Drain.

The updated overlays are intended to ensure land use and development decisions are informed by the most current and accurate flood hazard information, helping to manage flood risk and safe growth across Ballarat.

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said having the latest flood information in the planning scheme is essential.

“Flood modelling can raise concerns for some people, and council understands those sensitivities,” she said.

“However, ensuring our planning scheme reflects current flood risk information is critical to protecting lives, homes and community infrastructure.

“It also supports emergency services and helps the city make informed decisions about future development.

“This work follows years of detailed technical investigation, peer review and extensive community engagement.

“Exhibition is the formal opportunity for people to see what is proposed, understand how it may affect them, and provide feedback before any final decisions are made.”

The amendment documentation can be viewed online free of charge on the City of Ballarat’s MySay page or by appointment at the Phoenix Building on Armstrong Street South.