Input invited on planning scheme changes

RESIDENTS and ratepayers are being invited to take part in a feedback process on how planning and land use might look at Heathcote in the future.

Known as C274gben, the changes would be made to the City of Greater Bendigo planning scheme, with input open for the next three weeks.City of Greater Bendigo’s director of strategy and growth Rachel Lee said the amendment proposed to include considerations specific to Heathcote in the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.

“It follows extensive community engagement during the development of the township plan,” said Ms Lee.

“Residents provided feedback on the services, infrastructure and environmental values of the area that matter to them.

“The proposed amendment will give clearer guidance for Heathcote’s local area in the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme when dealing with future planning applications.

“It proposes to guide for land use and development in the town centre and immediate surrounds, which will have a positive impact on the amenity of the area.

“It also recommends a number of rezonings, the correction of zoning and overlay anomalies and the application of planning controls to land to manage environmental values.”

The proposed amendment can be viewed at the municipal office at 125 High Street, or on the State Government’s Department of Transport and Planning website.

An officer from the City’s Strategic Planning team will be based at the Heathcote office from 10am to 3pm on 28 February and again on 6 and 13 March to respond to any queries about the amendments.

Residents are also welcome to contact Andrew Cockerall on 1300 002 642 or email [email protected] to discuss the proposals.

Anyone who would like to make a formal submission, to support or oppose the amendment, or recommend a change, must do so in writing.

Submissions should be emailed to [email protected] or Strategic Planning Unit, City of Greater Bendigo, PO Box 733, Bendigo 3552.