East Gippsland Shire Council is seeking to support new housing in Paynesville and Eagle Point through changes to its planning scheme.
The amendments, currently on public exhibition, are intended to support the planned growth of the towns to provide critical housing for the growing population.
Submissions on the proposed amendments close on January 31 and will be subject to independent review as part of the State Government’s approval process.
Chief executive officer Fiona Weigall said good planning practice requires council to plan for future communities to accommodate growth.
“The State Government directs us to plan at least 15 years ahead, and in the case of Paynesville, our rezoning is looking 20 years ahead to plan for growth in one of the most desirable residential locations in East Gippsland,” Ms Weigall said.
The land within the Paynesville growth area and at Eagle Point has been identified to accommodate new housing growth since 2009, when the East Gippsland Planning Scheme incorporated the Paynesville and Eagle Point Urban Design Frameworks following community consultation.
Paynesville and Eagle Point are among the fastest growing communities in the East Gippsland region as new residents move to our coastal towns to work, raise families or retire.
“The current amendments are the next step to plan for sustainable growth for the future. Once the revised zoning arrangements are in place, detailed planning will follow to address road intersections, community infrastructure, walking/cycling networks, open space and neighbourhood character,” Ms Weigall said.
“The rezoning process is the first step in a detailed planning process that will provide new neighbourhoods for our growing community and will support employment growth and community infrastructure, as well as providing critical housing for our growing population.
“Community members are encouraged to read the amendment documents to get an understanding of how we are planning to support our growing communities, and we welcome feedback.”
