Teesdale residents asked for their say on future of town

GOLDEN Plains Shire Council is calling for ideas and suggestions from Teesdale residents for the preparation of a new Structure Plan for the township.

Council recently hosted two conversation posts to discuss Teesdale’s future and has set up an online survey open for input until Sunday, 20 October.

“Teesdale is a wonderful town and, like many locations in Golden Plains, is a popular place for newcomers to call home,” Mayor Cr Owen Sharkey said.

“As one of the fastest growing shires in the state, council plays an important role in ensuring that growth is strategic and supported for the benefit of existing and new residents.”

A background report has been established to help to stimulate discussion and inform the development of the structure plan.

Mayan Rowling, Secretary of Teesdale Community Events Inc said she had received notification of the Strategic Plan from the council in the mail and had seen the posts on its Facebook page.

“Some of the Teesdale locals have set up a Teesdale Strategic Plan Residents Group page on Facebook,” Ms Rowling said. “My husband and I have had a chat about the plan and he’s keen on the idea of reticulated sewerage.

“I’m not sure about the idea as it may restrict the size of residential blocks to less than one acre.”

Council is preparing to review the existing 1997 Structure Plan and develop a new version that guides long-term development of the township, as well as identifying opportunities for commercial growth and community infrastructure.

“We want all Teesdale residents to share their thoughts and ideas, and to have a voice in this process,” Cr Sharkey said.

Two days after the creation of the Teesdale Strategic Plan Residents Group page, described as a place for robust, respectful discussion regarding the strategic planning for the Teesdale community, it had 45 members and received 11 posts.

The Structure Plan is expected to be finalised in early 2020.

To access the online survey go to goldenplains.vic.gov.au/consultations/teesdale-structure-plan.