Council is inviting Colac residents to be a part of a Community Reference Group to help inform the preparation of the Deans Creek Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) project.
The Deans Creek (PSP) will guide future development of the area and will accommodate much of Colac’s residential development for the next 30 years.
The Deans Creek Growth Area is approximately 570 hectares and could accommodate from 4,500 to 6,000 houses over the next few decades.
Manager Planning and Strategic Focus Doug McNeill said the Community Reference Group is being formed to facilitate feedback from Colac residents.
“The outcome of the PSP process is to create rezoned, developable urban land in Colac. It’s a really important project for the shire as it will set out the form that future development will take.
“We’re seeking input from residents via this Community Reference Group to provide local knowledge and feedback to help shape the plan.
“Input from the community will be really important as the PSP will guide use of the land, infrastructure and development. This includes the location of public open space and recreational facilities, key intersection upgrades, the size and location of a neighbourhood retail centre and off road trails and connections for cyclists and pedestrians.
“Being a part of the Community Reference Group will provide members with the opportunity to learn about town planning and requirements for establishing infrastructure as well as processes involved in planning for future growth.
“We hope the Community Reference Group will work together to understand the different perspectives within the group to contribute ideas and feedback to inform the preparation of the PSP,” Mr McNeill said.
The Community Reference Group will be formed via an Expression of Interest process and made up of around 26 adult members of the community whose primary place of residence is Colac and represent various age groups. The group will also include representation from the Aboriginal community to provide Indigenous perspectives.
Landowners within the project area cannot form part of the Community Reference Group to avoid conflicts of interest; landowners are being consulted through different forums.
Commencing from November 2023, the Community Reference Group (CRG) will meet every second month for around 12 to 18 months. Meetings are likely to be on a Thursday of the relevant month from 4pm – 5.30pm at COPACC. On occasion an additional meeting may be required.
Residents can apply to be part of the Community Reference Group by completing an online application form on Council’s website. Applications close Sunday 1 October 2023. Members of the group will be confirmed by a resolution of Council.
Council is undertaking the Deans Creek Precinct Structure Plan project in partnership with the Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) and Regional Development Victoria (RDV).
