New plan retains unique, rural character of Whittlesea Township

Council has adopted a plan that will preserve the unique, rural character of Whittlesea Township.

The Whittlesea Township Plan was adopted at Tuesday’s Council Meeting (1 June 2021). It reflects the community’s aspirations for the Whittlesea Township and details how this vision can be achieved over the next 15-20 years.

Administrator Peita Duncan said the final plan was developed after extensive community consultation over many years.

“I would like to thank all those who took the time to share detailed feedback with Council during the consultation on the draft Whittlesea Township Plan. Your input has helped shape service delivery in the Whittlesea Townships along with the management of land, built areas and public spaces,” Administrator Duncan said.

Council carefully considered the 48 submissions received as part of feedback on the draft plan from residents and business owners.

“I feel confident that the final plan has captured the community’s desire to preserve the unique, rural character of Whittlesea Township,” Administrator Duncan said.

One of the key themes from the community consultation was around the uncertainty of land use on the periphery of the township.

“We know that certainty on containing any growth up to the existing Township is important to the community, and Council will continue to advocate to the Victorian Government for a permanent boundary,” Ms Duncan said.

Council acknowledged that not all ideas from the community could be incorporated into the Whittlesea Township Plan, however, said it would consider them as other future guiding documents are developed such as the Investment Attraction Plan, Destination Plan and Strong Local Economy Strategy.

“We will work with the local community to see how Council can further support business growth and further promote Whittlesea Township as a visitor destination,” Ms Duncan said.

The Whittlesea Township Plan is a living document and will be reviewed every two years to ensure it continues to address evolving challenges and opportunities for the community.