Leopold housing plan under review

A PROPOSAL to rezone farming land in Leopold for a new housing development has been referred to an Independent Planning Panel by City of Greater Geelong Council.

The planning amendment proposing to rezone five separate farming properties on Ash Road to General Residential Zone 1, with an accompanying Design and Development Overlay, was placed on public exhibition for a month and 29 submissions received.

The applicant is seeking approval to subdivide two of the larger properties into approximately 195 residential lots.

A Council report found the development would be consistent with the 2013 Leopold Structure Plan, which supports urban growth across the south-eastern area of Leopold between Ash Road and Mollers Lane.

A traffic report also advised that Ash Road could be widened, if required, to safely accommodate additional traffic generated by the proposed development.

Council requested that all 29 public submissions on the planning amendment and permit be considered by an Independent Panel appointed by the Minister for Planning.

Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan said submitters would have the opportunity to be heard by an independent panel of experts.

“This is an open and accountable process to ensure everyone’s views can be heard,” the Deputy Mayor said.

“We appreciate everyone’s feedback and will now wait for the independent panel’s review before making a decision.”

A Council report found the development would be consistent with the 2013 Leopold Structure Plan, which supports urban growth across the south-eastern area of Leopold between Ash Road and Mollers Lane.

A traffic report also advised that Ash Road could be widened, if required, to safely accommodate additional traffic generated by the proposed development.

Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason said a robust and transparent planning process was important for significant planning decisions on the Bellarine.

“The submissions include a mix of support and concerns around the proposal, which is why this matter is going to an independent panel for further review,” Cr Mason said.

“I encourage community members to have their say and go before the independent panel.”