Surf Coast Shire council approves expanded development at Briody Estate West

THE Surf Coast Shire council has greenlit an expanded development plan for Briody Estate West in Torquay, introducing a comprehensive mix of residential and community-focused facilities.

Originally sanctioned in 2017 solely for residential subdivision, the revised plan now includes provisions for a retirement village, residential aged care facility, and independent and assisted living apartments, pending further planning approvals.

During a special meeting held on Tuesday, April 16, the council confirmed that the adjusted plan aligns with all relevant planning policies, notably the Distinctive Areas and Landscape Statement of Planning Policy, and supports the objectives outlined in the Council Plan.

Last year, the initial amended development plan was displayed publicly, followed by a revised proposal that invited community feedback earlier this year.

Surf Coast Shire mayor Liz Pattison detailed the updates to the plan.

“The changes include significant infrastructure upgrades, such as enhanced stormwater management systems which were previously unaddressed,” Cr Pattison said.

“Incorporating the retirement village and aged care facility addresses a critical housing need by providing diverse living options for our ageing population.”

The development scheme proposes 313 standard density residential lots and 17 higher-density lots near Deep Creek, along with a multi-unit site.

The planned community facilities, encompassing approximately 8.51 hectares at the core of the development area, will feature an estimated 231 residential units, an 80-bed aged care facility, and 60 independent and assisted living apartments.

Improvements in the revised plan include the replacement of proposed underground water treatment units with a 2,000 square metre reserve that will feature a rain garden, bio-retention basin, and sediment bays, enhancing both functionality and public accessibility. Additional modifications encompass the construction of a perimeter road to satisfy Country Fire Authority requirements and traffic management enhancements along Briody Drive.

The development area is framed by Messmate Road, Grossmans Road, Illawong Drive, and Briody Drive.

Following the council’s approval, the next phase will involve securing planning permits for the construction and operation of the retirement village and aged care facility.