Smythesdale plan seeks input

SMYTHESDALE is the focus of a Golden Plains Shire Structure Plan process.

Similar to the Bannockburn Growth Plan, the document will map-out expansion and development pathways for the northern town’s future.

Exploring the areas of land availability, the environment and bushfire risks, while estimating Smythesdale’s potential residential and commercial growth, the Plan could influence planning scheme changes or highlight the need for additional open and recreational spaces, developments, or public infrastructure.

Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Helena Kirby is encouraging town, and neighbouring Scarsdale, residents to share their ideas for Smythesdale’s future via a Structure Plan survey.

The survey is open until Thursday, 12 August and has been posted to residents.

“We look forward to hearing from Smythesdale and Scarsdale locals to ensure council develops a Smythesdale Structure Plan that meets the community’s expectations and guides positive growth in the township over the next 25 years,” Cr Kirby said.

“Over the past few months, we’ve had some fantastic engagement with the people of Smythesdale, Scarsdale and the northern townships, with residents talking to us at Coffee with your Councillors and consultations on the Digital Hub at The Well, Three Trails Project and Northern Streetscapes Project.

“There is great work happening in the north of the Shire and this community feedback has had a real impact in shaping these projects.”

Residents can also fill in the survey at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/consultations or access a copy at The Well, Smythesdale.

Paper surveys can be sent to Golden Plains Shire Council, PO Box 111, Bannockburn, Victoria, 3331, labelled, ‘Attention: Smythesdale Structure Plan,’ or scanned and emailed to [email protected].

Community engagement will be held at The Well from 4.30pm to 6pm tonight, Thursday, 15 July. A Shire stall will be at the Smythesdale Market from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, 17 July.

It is estimated that the draft Smythesdale Structure Plan will be seen by councillors later in the year. Contact 5220 7143 for more information.

A Northern Settlement Strategy was adopted by Council two years ago, but Smythesdale’s current Urban Design Framework was written 15 years ago, and is invalid following changes to property zoning and development.