Wetlands proposed for Hovells Creek estate

A PLAN to subdivide two Lara blocks into 46 properties are now on display after developers agreed to take further steps to reduce environmental impacts at nearby Hovells Creek.

The proposal for 10-20 and 24 Flinders Avenue includes development of a wetlands reserve in the northeast corner of the area, which is nearest to the creek.

Planners say the wetland would reduce additional inflow into the creek as a result of the new housing estate by 23 per cent.

A report from consultants Water Technology said the use of water tanks at resulting properties could save water inflow by a further seven per cent.

“In the absence of both available standards and additional guidance on catchment specific targets we are seeking support for the presented option, noting that the site is located within an established area (infill) and options for more extensive reuse are unavailable at this location,” the report stated.

The City of Greater Geelong, which manages reserves at Hovells Creek next to the planned development, gave its consent for developers to go ahead with the application if they could demonstrate “that the proposal will not directly impact on the biodiversity values present within the reserve”, or have indirect downstream impacts.

The proposal went on public exhibition earlier this month after the city received the updated plan in July.

Of the 46 lots, around half range between 400 to 420 square metres in area, while the remainder are larger blocks up to 987 sqm.

The plans are on display at the City of Greater Geelong’s planning website, with public submissions open until Tuesday, August 30.