THE Winchelsea community has played a key role in shaping a new draft Place Plan that will guide the town’s growth to 2050 and beyond.<\/p>\n
A community working group, comprising 29 residents from diverse backgrounds, worked with the Surf Coast Shire to develop the plan, which outlines a long-term vision and guiding principles for managing population growth in a way that preserves the essence of the town.<\/p>\n
Working group member Greta Duff said the plan had been developed by the community for the community.<\/p>\n
“I think the Place Plan will enable residents to feel confident that the council has our best interests in mind when developing other plans.<\/p>\n
“It will make sure that we are highlighting our greatest strengths, like the river and community, and find opportunities to further build and develop our town.”<\/p>\n
Winchelsea has been identified as a primary location for population growth over the coming decades in the council’s Urban Futures Strategy, adopted in April.<\/p>\n
Between 2016 and 2021, the township’s population increased by almost 30 per cent to 2,000 people. By 2050, this population is expected to grow to 10,000.<\/p>\n
Cr Tony Phelps said the plan marked a crucial step in managing this growth in line with local aspirations.<\/p>\n
“It is far-reaching work. The Place Plan vision and principles will guide the creation of a structure plan for Winchelsea, which will be a more detailed and specific blueprint for growth.<\/p>\n
“I commend everyone who volunteered to join the community working group, and thank them for their insights and input, demonstrating their passion and care for Winchelsea now and into the future.”<\/p>\n
He encouraged community members to take the opportunity to review the plan and provide input when it goes on public display next week.<\/p>\n
To view the plan, head to yoursay.surfcoast.vic.gov.au\/WPP<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE Winchelsea community has played a key role in shaping a new draft Place Plan that will guide the town’s growth to 2050 and beyond. A community working group, comprising 29 residents from diverse backgrounds, worked with the Surf Coast Shire to develop the plan, which outlines a long-term vision and guiding principles for managing […]<\/p>\n