Planning changes focus of PCA meeting

THE state government’s intention to declare the Bellarine a “Distinctive Area and Landscape” under the Planning and Environment Act was the major focus of a packed meeting of the Portarlington Community Association (PCA).

The effect of the pre-election announcement would be a requirement for permanent height controls and town boundaries in Portarlington and other affected communities.

The government has indicated that this move was to protect the environment, landscape and local lifestyles.

To be put in place within a year, the move would mean that any future change to town boundaries could only occur with the approval of both houses of State Parliament.

PCA president Geoff Fary said recent interest and growth in Portarlington had occurred following the establishment of the regular Melbourne ferry service.

Mr Fary said real estate prices had risen and there was a number of applications for permits for multi-unit developments within the town.

“This in turn has led to disquiet among some existing residents who are concerned about proposals being out of keeping with the quiet coastal village nature of the historic town,” he said.

Mr Fary said people didn’t have to look far to observe what has happened to the characteristics of those once smaller communities where the developers have been at work.

“While growth and development in our little town is both inevitable and desirable, we need to manage it in a way that preserves the special characteristics and lifestyle of our community,” he said.

The keynote speaker at the February meeting was Mr Kim McGough, the Barwon Region Manager of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP).

“He advised of plans that were being progressed for the drafting of a ‘Statement of Planning Policy’ that would set the basis of new criteria for planning and building approvals in future,” Mr Fary said.

“While precise details – including the other parts of the Bellarine that might be covered – were yet to be finalised, Mr McGough emphasised that the department was keen to consult with stakeholders such as the PCA over the next 12 months while this was being done.”

Mr Fary said he confirmed that there was no intention to place a moratorium on existing applications in the meantime and stressed that the most effective way for individuals and groups to become involved in the process was through broadly representative bodies such as the PCA.

The Portarlington Community Association is in the process of establishing a Planning Working Group to help guide its policy and input to this process, which will have a significant influence on the future of the town.

Upcoming meetings will also focus on issues such as the Bellarine Bayside Safe Harbour Masterplan and environmental sustainability.

Membership of the more than 40-year-old PCA has more than doubled in the last few months. To apply for membership or for enquiries, email [email protected].