Surf Coast’s draft Statement of Planning Policy released

THE state government will release its draft Statement of Planning Policy (SPP) for the Surf Coast today (Thursday, November 19) as part of the Surf Coast Distinctive Area and Landscape (DAL) process.

Last year, parts of the Surf Coast Shire and the City of Greater Geelong were separately declared as DALs, recognising the environmental and cultural heritage attributes of the areas combined with their ability to draw tourists.

The draft SPP for the Surf Coast declared area, which includes proposed settlement boundaries to protect the area’s valued coastal and rural hinterland areas and townships, is now available for
public comment.

Protected settlement boundaries are proposed for Torquay and Jan Juc, Bellbrae, Breamlea and Armstrong Creek to ensure the prized landscapes and environmental features are protected from inappropriate development and future growth is directed to preferred locations.

The proposed planning controls will also better protect the state and nationally significant landscapes found along the coast and surrounding Torquay and Jan Juc.

The draft SPP is based on expert advice and has been developed in collaboration with Traditional Owners the Wadawurrung, the Surf Coast Shire, the City of Greater Geelong, responsible public entities, other government agencies and the community.

The release of the draft marks the third and final phase of public engagement before the final SPP is developed and adopted by the state government.

“This is an exciting step for the Surf Coast, and I thank the local community for their input as we develop these new controls to protect and enhance what is such a great place to live, work and visit,” South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman said.

Minister for Planning Richard Wynne said the state government knew how much locals cared about the Surf Coast, which is why it was important for the community to have their say on stronger planning controls to protect the area.

“These planning protections will ensure the Surf Coast retains all the attributes that make it such a popular place for locals, tourists and all Victorians.”

Public consultation on the draft Surf Coast SPP is open from now until January 22, 2021.

For more information, head to engage.vic.gov.au/distinctive-areas-and-landscapes-program/surf-coast.

View the Draft Statement of Planning for Surf Coast here.