The Andrews Labor Government is taking action to protect the much-loved Macedon Ranges from inappropriate development.
Minister for Planning Richard Wynne joined Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas in Gisborne last night to announce the Labor Government would deliver on an election commitment to introduce legislation to Parliament that will protect the region’s unique character and boost local jobs.
The Labor Government established the Macedon Ranges Protection Advisory Committee in 2015 to work with the community and the council on how to best protect the Macedon Ranges’ great values, attributes and character.
And we’ve listened to the community, who identified urban and township growth concerns, expanding settlement boundaries and encroachment onto rural land as key concerns.
The Committee made 12 recommendations and we have accepted them all. Our reforms will include:
- Legislation to protect the iconic and historic region
- A Macedon Ranges Localised Planning Statement, prepared in consultation with relevant stakeholders including the Registered Aboriginal Parties
- Ensuring settlement boundaries are informed by policy and strategic work
- Revised planning controls applied to the Mount William Stone Hatchet Quarry
- A review of the application of the Vegetation Protection Overlays across the Macedon Ranges Shire
The Government will work with the Victorian Planning Authority and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council to implement all 12 recommendations that will protect the Macedon Ranges’ future.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
“The Macedon Ranges has a significant past and we’re ensuring it has a promising future too. This is all about balancing the need to accommodate more population and protecting the region’s great character.”
“We look forward to working with the Macedon Ranges Shire Council to ensure we prevent inappropriate development that puts the region’s great appeal at risk.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
“We promised we’d protect the environmental values of the Macedon Ranges and that’s exactly what we’re doing. The Action we’re taking will support the community and boost jobs.”
“We’re lucky to live in one of the most picturesque destinations in Victoria, and we’re going to make sure it stays that way.”
Quote attributable to Macedon Ranges Shire Council Mayor Jennifer Anderson
“We look forward to working with the Victorian Government and the community to ensure the Macedon Ranges can continue to be enjoyed by residents, businesses and visitors – both now and by future generations.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020