A proposed re-zoning that would allow landholders nearby the Towac Park racecourse to develop their properties as part of an equine precinct, is now up for community comment.
The proposal, which came to the council from landholders, would reduce the minimum lot size to allow for the creation of mainly 2 hectare lifestyle blocks. The area would be used by horse owners and enthusiasts, making the most of close proximity of Towac Park, and also protect the Towac Park area from encroachment by incompatible uses.
Orange City Council Planning & Development Committee chair, Cr Russell Turner said the proposed changes would give land-owners in the area more options.
“With any change of zoning like this, it’s important to note that giving permission to allow something to happen if a landowners chooses, doesn’t make it compulsory for everyone who lives in that zone,” Cr Russell Turner said.
“Of course, it’s won’t be compulsory to own horses if you live in this area. It won’t restrict people who might buy there in future to only landholders who want to raise horses. The point of any zoning is to let you know what is allowed to happen in that neighbourhood, so you can choose whether to buy there on not.
“A re-zoning like this recognises the ranges of existing uses that are already happening, whether it’s people running sheep or cattle or land-owners with no livestock, and gives them the option of continuing with those uses.”
“The re-zoning proposals would also include a package of standards for structures like stables, round yards, equestrian training areas and the like. It would let ways be established for horses to have access to the Towac Park race track facility. Standards for on-site management of exercise, veterinary needs and breeding management for horses would be part of the package.
