Independent panel to review Highton Village development plan amendment

THE City of Greater Geelong has referred the submissions gathered as part of the most recent phase of the Highton Village Urban Design Framework (UDF) community consultation process to an independent panel.

This panel, to be appointed by the Planning Minister, will consider the 25 submissions, of which 18 are objections, received about the Planning Scheme Amendment C457ggee.

Among the concerns raised are the proposed rezoning of two city-owned car parks in Belle Vue Avenue and Taylor Court, proposed development heights, and the inclusion of an affordable housing policy.

In response, the city has proposed further changes to the amendment, such as the removal of the UDF, which was adopted in 2022, as a background document in the planning scheme.

An additional change to the amendment was proposed by Cr Andrew Katos during the city’s February meeting, which specified a building height limit of 9m, or two storeys, along Belle Vue Avenue “to maintain the character of Highton Village”.

Cr Katos said the purpose of the amendment was to reflect “the will” of the vast majority of local residents and business users through the community consultation process, which began in 2016.

Meanwhile, Cr Eddy Kontelj said he was hopeful the amendment would mark “a step in the right direction” in appeasing the concerns of both retailers and residents in the area.

Deputy mayor Ron Nelson said it was important everyone’s views were heard through the next stages of the consultation process.

“By referring to submissions to an independent panel, we can ensure an open and accountable process,” he said.

“We thank the submitters for taking the time to give feedback.”

The independent panel will review the feedback received on Amendment C457ggee before making recommendations to the city, and submitters will have the opportunity to appear before the panel to have their say.