Planning Amendment to Advance Major Projects and Provide Economic Stimulus

A recent amendment to the State Government’s Planning Scheme will allow several City of Ballarat Projects to be fast tracked.

Some $50 million worth of jointly funded capital works projects underway, scheduled or proposed in Ballarat are set to deliver 297 jobs (74 direct and 123 flow-on) and a $51.4m total increase in economic activity ($17.8m direct and $33.6m flow-on).

The new legislation means the City of Ballarat can progress major projects without being subject to potentially lengthy delays of up to six months if projects are the subject of VCAT hearings.

Amendment VC211 removes the right of objectors to appeal Council decisions to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for government-funded projects under $10 million. The exemption is in line with the government’s intention to facilitate the development of land by or on behalf of municipal Councils.

“We know construction by local contractors, in particular, is a major stimulus to our economy and this exemption will ensure the City of Ballarat can continue to deliver on key projects in partnership with the State Government,” CEO Evan King said.

“That does not mean Council will in any way reduce the opportunity for community consultation and feedback before our major projects reach the Planning Permit stage.

“The new requirements apply to any application that is still under consideration prior to the gazetted amendment, such as the Lake Wendouree and Victoria Park Link Lighting Project.”

A decision on the Planning Permit Application for this project has been deferred to the October 27 Ordinary Council meeting to allow time to communicate the changes.

Information Session for Lake Lighting Submitters

Council has contacted submitters in relation to the Lake Wendouree and Victoria Park Link Lighting project and will hold an online information session for those parties on October 19 from 5.30pm-6.30pm.

“Given the considerable amount of interest and input to this project , I want to assure our community that their voices have been heard and matters raised at previous Lake Lighting consultations will be considered by Councillors before making their decision on the Lake Lighting Planning Permit application on October 27,” Mr King said.

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