The Andrews Labor Government has approved new interim planning controls to protect a key section of the Yarra River in inner Melbourne from inappropriate development.
Acting Planning Minister Tim Pallas said the Labor Government had approved the City of Yarra’s request to amend its planning scheme to apply interim controls to protect council’s stretch of the river.
The new controls will include mandatory building height and setback controls in order to guide appropriate development outcomes along the river within the City of Yarra.
The interim controls will come into force on 14 January 2016 and will apply until December 31, 2017, providing time to finalise permanent controls for protecting the Yarra River corridor.
The approval of the interim controls is consistent with the Government’s policy on protecting the stretch of the river between Richmond and Warrandyte.
Late last year the Government appointed the new Yarra River Protection Ministerial Advisory Committee to drive consultation and draft the new Yarra River Protection Act, legislating for long-term protection.
The 2015-16 Victorian Budget also delivered $1 million to protect the Yarra River for future generations.
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Planning, Tim Pallas
“Implementing stronger planning controls to protect the Yarra River corridor from inappropriate development is a key priority for the Andrews Labor Government.”
“We are laying the foundations for long term protection of the river by forming a Ministerial Advisory Committee to provide overarching and independent expert advice in regard to long-term management of the Yarra River and environs.”
“The City of Yarra’s interim controls align with the Government’s new Yarra River Protection policy that was introduced into the State Planning Policy Framework late last year.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020