The Andrews Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to protect the iconic and historic Macedon Ranges region.
Minister for Planning Richard Wynne will today introduce a Bill into Parliament that will allow Macedon to be declared a distinctive area, strengthening planning controls and protecting Macedon Ranges from inappropriate development.
The Macedon Ranges boasts some of Victoria’s most picturesque settings, stunning wildlife and a renowned food and wine sector.
The Government will work with the public on the draft Macedon Ranges Localised Planning Statement, ensuring policy reflects the community’s vision for the future of Macedon Ranges. This includes settlement boundaries around townships in the area, ensuring development doesn’t encroach on valued natural and rural landscapes.
The settlement boundaries will apply to the townships of Gisborne, Kyneton, Romsey, Riddells Creek, Lancefield and Woodend. They will be subject to the same rigorous protections of Melbourne’s permanent Urban Growth Boundary – and will require parliamentary approval to amend them.
The Bill will provide a model for how other parts of Victoria can be protected from inappropriate development.
The Labor Government established the Macedon Ranges Protection Advisory Committee in 2015 to work with the community and the council on how best to protect what makes the Macedon Ranges special.
The Committee made 12 recommendations and the Labor Government has accepted them all.
The Government has prepared the draft localised planning statement in partnership with the Macedon Ranges Shire Council and the Traditional Owners of the Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and the Wurundjeri peoples.
The draft statement will go on exhibition in the coming days and will be available online at .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“The Macedon Ranges has a unique history spanning thousands of years and we’re giving it a safe and secure future. This is an important location not just for locals, but all Victorians.”
“This landmark legislation will lock down the treasured natural landscapes that should never be encroached on – and encourage development in appropriate areas to ensure townships grow sustainably.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
“The community has spoken and we’ve acted. We promised we’d protect everything that makes Macedon Ranges great and that’s exactly what we’ve done.”
“The Macedon Ranges is one of Victoria’s most picturesque destinations and we’ll ensure its renowned beauty and other natural attributes are protected for generations to come.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020