Council Minutes - Section B: Reports - 22 October 2013

Contents | Previous Page: Section A - Procedural Matters | Next Page: Section C - Notice of Motion

Reports tabled at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Tuesday date held at City Hall, Little Malop Street in Geelong.


  1. Amendment C300 Reformed Residential Zones Implementation

  2. Amendment C246 Lara West Growth Area – Consideration of Panel Report and Adoption

  3. Amendment C298 Combined Planning Scheme Amendment and Planning Permit Application for Land at 400 Melbourne Road, North Geelong – McDonalds Restaurant

  4. Sale of Land – 400 Melbourne Road, North Geelong

  5. Women in Community Life Advisory Committee

  6. Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013-2017 – Dogs in Public Places Policy 2013-2017

  7. Financial Sustainability Review

  8. Geelong Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017

  9. Annual Report 2012-2013

  10. Council Policies Review

  11. Municipal Association State Council

  12. Bio Science Meetings USA

  13. General Signage (Including Electoral Advertising Signs) on Road Reserves and Council Land

  14. Amendment C247 and Planning Permit 366/2011: 12-20 Fairbairn Drive, Corio – Adoption

  15. Contractual Matter (Confidential)


1. Amendment C300 Reformed Residential Zones Implementation

Portfolio:

Planning - Cr Macdonald

Source:

Economic Development, Planning and Tourism

General Manager:

Peter Bettess

Index Reference:

Reformed Zones
Application: C300


Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek Council support for a planning scheme amendment to implement the reformed residential zones for Victoria into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme.


Summary

Cr Heagney moved, Cr Ellis seconded -

That Council resolves to:

  1. Support the preparation and exhibition of an amendment to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme to implement the reformed residential zones for Victoria in the format outlined in this report and generally as detailed in Appendix 1, 2 and 3 to this report.

  2. Request the Minister for Planning authorise the preparation of an amendment as detailed in this report and generally as outlined in Appendix 1, 2 and 3 to this report.


Carried.


Background

The reformed residential zones will give more certainty about the type of development that can be expected in any residential area and give Councils better tools to identify areas where existing urban character will be protected and areas where appropriate urban densification can occur.

Three new residential zones have been created, each with specific roles:

The zones were introduced into the Victorian Planning Provisions in July this year. Councils have been given until 1st July 2014 to implement the new zones, at which time the current zones, Residential 1, Residential 2 and Residential 3 Zones will no longer be available.

If Council does not pursue a planning scheme amendment to apply the three zones it is likely that the State Government will apply the General Residential Zone across all residential areas, which may undermine Council’s existing housing policies.


Discussion

To implement the new zones a review of the existing policy framework and assessment as to how this aligns with the new residential zones has been undertaken. Council adopted a Housing Diversity Strategy in 2007 and its recommendations were implemented into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme in 2010.

Council’s Housing Diversity Strategy and the G21 Regional Growth Plan (adopted by Council in August 2012) both outline issues facing the municipality in relation to housing diversity and providing for population growth. An aging population and a growing demand for more diversity in housing with a greater demand for smaller households, means that the City needs to ensure it provides for appropriately located infill opportunities. Infill development also makes more efficient use of existing infrastructure including community services.

A detailed implementation report has been prepared which outlines relevant policies, further work undertaken and justifies application of the new zones in detail. A summary of the review and key issues is outlined below.

Housing Diversity Strategy

The Housing Diversity Strategy (HDS) directs the density of housing change that can be expected in different parts of the municipality by defining a hierarchical approach which guides density and the type of development that can be expected in different areas. The Strategy identifies Key Development Areas, Increased Housing Diversity Areas and Incremental Change Areas.

An assessment has been undertaken of how the principles outlined for each of the new zones align with the policy direction for the areas defined in the Housing Diversity Strategy.


Key Development Areas

Key Development Areas (KDA) are for the most part defined as large existing and future development areas that have the potential to accommodate significant amounts of new medium and higher density housing, including mixed use development. A zoning regime to realise these policy objectives is established for the majority of these areas with the application of the Activity Centre Zone for Central Geelong commercial areas, Mixed Use Zone for Fyans/West Fyans Structure Plan Areas and Urban Growth Zone for Armstrong Creek.

The majority of residential areas in the Central Geelong KDA are zoned Residential 2. It is recommended that these be translated to the Residential Growth Zone. The Central Geelong Urban Design Guidelines provide recommendations in relation to development in these residential areas. These recommendations need to be reviewed to consider an appropriate translation into the planning scheme. It is recommended that this further work be documented in the planning scheme.

A large vacant site located adjacent to the Waurn Ponds Shopping Complex is a nominated KDA and is currently zoned Residential 1, the most appropriate zone to apply is the Residential Growth Zone given the clear alignment of purpose between KDA’s and the RGZ.


Increased Housing Diversity Areas

Increased Housing Diversity Areas (IHDA’s) are areas that have been identified due to their proximity to activity centres, train stations and town centres. The IHDA boundaries are based on walkable catchments of either 400m (five minute walk) or 800m (ten minute walk). The HDS aims to provide for a mix of high, medium and conventional density housing in these areas, with the density of development being highest within the commercial core of the area and lower at the edge of the area.

The existing planning policy acknowledges that neighbourhood character in the Increased Housing Diversity Areas will adapt and evolve over time, particularly within and on the edges of activity centres, where land use and development will intensify.

The purpose of the IHDA’s can be met by applying the Residential Growth Zone and using local policy to provide more explicit direction around the design and built form of medium density housing in these areas.

Council’s Municipal Strategic Statement recommends as further work the need to undertake more detailed planning to identify planning controls which will deliver increased housing density. This further work has been undertaken in order to inform implementation of the reformed residential zones, a detailed discussion on this further work is provided later in this report.

The Residential Growth Zone allows small scale commercial uses including Shop, Food and drink premises, Medical centre and Place of worship without a permit if conditions limiting their location and scale are met. In relation to food and drink premises and shop the condition for an as of right use include that the land must be located within 100 metres of a commercial zone or Mixed Use Zone and must adjoin, or have access to, a road in a Road Zone and must have the same street frontage as the land in the commercial zone or Mixed Use Zone. A medical centre up to 250sqm is as of right, however it is noted that the car parking provisions of the planning scheme are still required to be met or if they cannot be a planning permit would be required to waive requirements.

Council’s local planning policy in relation to discretionary uses in residential areas is proposed to be amended to include that where these uses are permit required that they are discouraged in residential areas.


Incremental Change Areas

Incremental Change Areas are residential areas in which new development is in keeping with the municipality’s traditional suburban character and where only incremental change is expected. These areas are zoned Residential 3 currently and require the provision of larger private open space areas compared to the ResCode standard. These additional requirements ensure that the change that is experienced is in keeping with the existing character of these areas.

It is recommended that all Residential 3 zoned areas have the General Residential Zone applied. This zone is recommended as opposed to the Neighbourhood Residential Zone as this zone and Councils Housing Diversity Strategy recognise that modest housing growth will occur as opposed to the Neighbourhood Residential Zone which is recommended for areas where change is limited. The requirement for backyards larger than the ResCode standard in medium density developments will be retained in a schedule to the General Residential Zone.


Further work – Increased Housing Diversity Areas Study

An Increased Housing Diversity Area Study has been completed, which included a street by street survey of existing conditions, a desktop analysis of relevant policy and a detailed assessment of existing lot sizes and density, building heights, street setbacks, site coverage, public realm quality, constraints and opportunities. This work has informed preparation of key design recommendations for each IHDA.

Generally the Study found that there is significant opportunity for increased housing diversity within all of the IHDA’s. Housing diversity can be achieved in all of the IHDAs by encouraging a mix of residential building typologies including infill (detached), semi-detached, attached, terraced and low-rise apartments.

The recommendations generally encourage innovative architecture, high quality, site responsive medium density housing development sympathetic to unique characteristics of sites. Recessive elements for buildings three storeys or more are encouraged in appropriate locations within all of the urban IHDAs, and a building height limit of three storeys (10.5 metres) in coastal IHDAs is encouraged to maintain a canopied or coastal vegetation character. Tree planting was identified as being a significant attribute for the future preferred character of all IHDAs.

It is recognised that housing at higher densities can have a greater impact on neighbourhood character than traditional detached housing. As housing density intensifies it is important that design quality improves to ensure a positive contribution to the neighbourhood is achieved.

Well designed, site responsive, contemporary medium density housing will replace the existing housing stock and intensify development patterns overtime in the IHDA’s. The intensity of redevelopment will be highest around the activity centre core and lower at the edge of the IHDA with this principle being embedded in the Housing Diversity Strategy.

It was noted that some IHDAs had larger or more areas with development constraints such as precincts with a heritage overlay, or design considerations such as boundary edge areas surrounded by heritage places. However, all had high opportunity areas and an ability to accommodate change across each IHDA.

It is recommended that a Local Planning Policy be introduced in order to manage the change within these areas in relation to built form and character outcomes, as well as balance the constraints such as heritage places, significant vegetation, topography and public spaces within each IHDA. The proposed policy reiterates that these areas are changing and have an evolving character.

The Residential Growth Zone provides the ability to vary ResCode standards in order to assist with realising policy objectives. It is recommended that ResCode standards are varied in relation to minimum street setback, site coverage and private open space for coastal and urban IHDAs.


Geelong West/Newtown area

Further work clauses in the MSS identify the need to:

Council previously determined that the heritage studies needed to be completed prior to any IHDAs being nominated in the Geelong West / Newtown Areas. The Ashby and Newtown Heritage Reviews have both been completed and implemented into the planning scheme. As part of the current work to implement the new zones a detailed review of this area has been undertaken. Recommendations in relation to the various areas are detailed below.

The complexity of opportunities and constraints in this area require a unique approach to determining the areas appropriate for increased housing diversity.

This area is only a short distance from Central Geelong, the inner Geelong Stations and the Waterfront. It is well positioned to take advantage of the employment and recreation opportunities afforded by these areas. Within the review area there is also a plethora of retail, education and civic services.  The retail centres within the review area are:

Centre

Facilities

Centre type – Retail Strategy

Pakington Street – Geelong West

Two supermarkets; sub-regional catchment for fashion, civic  and entertainment uses

Community Centre

Pakington Street – Newtown

Fashion and cafes; no supermarket

Neighbourhood Centre

Shannon Avenue – Geelong West / Manifold Heights

Two supermarkets; some commercial; takeaway restaurants

Neighbourhood Centre

Aberdeen Street – Newtown

Supermarket, hotel, medical centre

Neighbourhood Centre


The methodology used to identify increased housing diversity areas by the Housing Diversity Strategy was the establishment of a hierarchy of centres based on an assessment of the walkable catchment of the respective centres; 400m for neighbourhood centres and 800m for sub-regional centres.

The number of centres within close proximity, the variety of housing stock and complexity of constraints in this area requires a unique approach to ensure that a rational and balanced planning outcome is achieved.

The Pakington Street Geelong West centre is identified in the Retail Strategy as a Community Centre – that is somewhere between a sub-regional centre and neighbourhood centre. Since the preparation of the Retail Strategy in 2006 the Pakington Street centre has grown to include a second full line supermarket and draws a sub-regional catchment for its offer of high quality fashion and café culture.

For the purposes of assessing the walkable catchments it is appropriate to consider 400m from each of the neighbourhood centres and 800m from Pakington Street, Geelong West.


Pakington Street Geelong West

The inner urban character of Geelong West and Pakington Street and its proximity to Central Geelong make it a popular location for many different households. The range of services and centres within close proximity make this pocket of Geelong West suitable to accommodate housing growth.

Whilst the average lot size (420 sqm) and corresponding residential density are comparably high in the Geelong context, there is still capacity to redevelop many underutilised sites and opportunities to extend and develop existing heritage properties consistent with the policy objectives of the existing heritage overlays.

It is recommended that Geelong West be included in the Residential Growth Zone (RGZ). Whilst the heritage significance of some precincts will limit the capacity within these areas there are many sites and streets that offer the opportunity to deliver new housing in this popular location. Some variations to the open space and front setback ResCode provisions will further encourage new development in this area that is consistent with the area’s inner urban feel.

There is a small pocket of housing adjoining Church Street that is outside the walkable catchment of one of the retail centres however it is recommended that these areas be included in the RGZ due to the multitude of services and centres available to these areas and the need to provide logical boundaries to the new planning zones.


Aberdeen Street Newtown and Shannon Avenue Manifold Heights

The 400m walking catchment of Shannon Avenue and Aberdeen Street centres are recommended for the RGZ consistent with the approach taken with other comparable neighbourhood centres in the municipality. Both centres serve the local shopping needs of nearby residents.

It is recommended that these centres be identified as IHDAs and included in the Incorporated Document for Key Development and Increased Housing Diversity Areas. DDO14 should be removed from this area consistent with the planning controls in place for IHDAs.

The area west of Bostock Avenue is recommended for the General Residential Zone – Schedule 1. This area has a consistent character of single detached dwellings in generous garden settings. New development in this area should provide additional open space to ensure consistency with the existing character of the area.


Pakington Street Newtown

Within the suburb of Newtown there is a distinct pocket of housing located on the Newtown Hill. This area is one of two areas identified in the City of Newtown Urban Conservation Study as having ‘regional’ rather than just ‘local’ significance. The significance of the area is distinguished by fine housing reflecting the lifestyles and tastes of some of Geelong’s wealthier families during the last century and containing many significant buildings of architectural merit. The large garden settings and the well established street trees also contribute to the unique character of this area. Given the significance of this area the Neighbourhood Residential Zone is recommended. Outside the Newtown Hill area there is more variety in the housing stock and streetscapes and there are examples of similar housing stock elsewhere in Geelong. While there are a number of heritage precincts they are of local significance only. These areas have also seen a higher proportion of new development over recent years providing a greater mix of housing stock within the area, including heritage precincts. The General Residential Zone is recommended for these areas.

The 400m walking catchment of the Newtown – Pakington St centre is not recommended for RGZ like other neighbourhood centres. Whilst it is a popular and vibrant café and fashion strip the centre does not offer nearby residents the daily shopping needs that would be expected at a neighbourhood centre. However there still remains opportunity for new housing within this area and the General Residential Zone is recommended.


Latrobe Terrace frontage

There is a broad range of building types and uses within the Residential 1 and Residential 2 zoned land fronting LaTrobe Terrace. This road is a six lane arterial road which is not ideally suited to residential development given the amenity issues associated with high traffic levels. Over the years a number of offices, medical centres and food and drink uses have emerged.

The application of RGZ on LaTrobe Terrace is recommended. Most of the strip is developed, including many substantial heritage properties. The RGZ offers a broader range of non-residential uses allowable with a permit which would be appropriate in this busy corridor. The alternative to facilitate non-residential uses would be an extensive expansion of the mixed use or commercial zones that could undermine planning for other centres. The application of the RGZ provides a good balance of flexibility for landowners and guidance that can be provided by council through the permit process.


Other Recommendations

Hamlyn Heights – Vines Road Increased Housing Diversity Area

This area was nominated as a potential IHDA in the Housing Diversity Strategy in 2007. Since this time the centre has further developed with expansion of the community and education facilities, new and expanded retail development and streetscape upgrades.

It is recommended that a 400m walking catchment around the centre be recognised as an Increased Housing Diversity Area and this be included in the Incorporated Document in the for Key Development and Increased Housing Diversity Areas.

It is recommended that this area have the same zoning regime applied as other IHDAs with the Residential Growth Zone being applied and the DDO14 be removed from the IHDA.


Translation of all other land zoned Residential 1

There is a range of land zoned Residential 1 in the municipality. These areas include land located outside Increased Housing Diversity Areas that are not located within the Residential 3 Zone and include both newer residential estates and established residential areas.

It is recommended that the General Residential Zone be applied in these areas.


Ocean Grove

A number of issues have been raised over recent years by Council’s planners and the community with the application and operation of the Significant Landscape Overlay Schedule 7 – Ocean Grove Coastal Area (SLO7). The review into the implementation of the reformed residential zones has considered how the policy objectives of the Housing Diversity Strategy, SLO7 and application of the reformed residential zones should be managed.

The objectives of the SLO7 are to provide a balance between roof tops and vegetation when viewed from a distance, encourage development that seeks to maximise views and encourage space for planting and the retention of vegetation.

The Ocean Grove IHDA is located around and supports the Town Centre. It is clear Council policy to promote housing density and change in this area through the Housing Diversity Strategy, Ocean Grove Structure Plan and Ocean Grove Town Centre Urban Design Framework (currently being prepared). The application of the Residential Growth Zone is considered to best reflect these policy directions.

As part of the review the boundary of the IHDA has been revisited to ensure that any areas of particularly significant character are not unduly affected by new development. There are a number of areas that display exceptional landscape characteristics that are articulated in the SLO7. The area south of the properties fronting Orton Street should not be included in the IHDA and should be included as an Incremental Change Area. These areas typically interface with coastal vegetation reserves, stands of remnant vegetation or are highly visible from public viewing locations. The scale and character of new development in these areas should be carefully considered to ensure that the significant vegetation and landscape characteristics are maintained.

To deliver a balanced approach in the Ocean Grove IHDA the objectives of the Housing Diversity Strategy and SLO7 both need to be considered. The SLO7 does potentially impact on the capacity of the Ocean Grove IHDA to deliver the housing change anticipated in an IHDA. However, a review of the area has shown it is delivering housing change, increases in density and quality architectural styles when compared to other IHDA’s. To this end it is recommended that the SLO7 be retained with improvements to remove the exemption for a permit to remove tea tree where it is indigenous to the area, include only relevant decision guidelines and include application requirements which require the need for a design response including a view impact analysis.


North Shore

The Neighbourhood Residential Zone (NRZ) is recommended for the residential pocket in North Shore. The NRZ can be used in areas where constraints and natural or other hazards restrict housing growth. The maximum number of dwellings on a lot in the NRZ may not exceed two.

The North Shore residential area is constrained by the proximity of port activities and industrial zoned land and the need to manage potential conflicts between port uses and the amenity of existing residences. These issues were considered in the adopted Port Structure Plan 2007 and the Environmental Significance Overlay 5 (ESO5) – Port of Geelong Environs.

The Structure Plan recognises the economic importance of the Port and the need to manage the interface between port and sensitive residential uses. A key direction of the Plan is to minimise future amenity conflict in the Port and interface area. The ESO5 was introduced in 2012 to manage potential conflicts between land in the port environs and the adjoining Port of Geelong. Land within this overlay should not be developed for any purpose that might compromise the long term protection and expansion of port operations infrastructure and associated storage facilities.

The use of the NRZ in North Shore and its restrictions on the number of dwellings allowed on a lot are consistent with these directions.


Drumcondra

Like the Newtown Hill area discussed earlier the Geelong West Urban Conservation Areas Study has identified the Drumcondra area as having substantially high quality homes with a number of dwellings designed by local notable architects Buchan Laird, Seeley King and Everett. The area is significant for its almost exclusively detached housing, wide streets with footpaths and street tree plantings, allotment sizes which allow side boundary and generous front setbacks with substantial gardens and consistent materials and styles with rich architectural detailing. For these reasons the Neighbourhood Residential Zone is recommended.


Residential Character Study: Character Precinct Brochures (2001)

The existing Residential Character Study: Character Precinct Brochures prepared in 2001 have been reviewed as part of the work to implement the new zones. The need for a review of the brochures is identified in the planning scheme.

This review has been completed as part of the new zone translation and as a result it is recommended the Study be removed as a reference document in the Planning Scheme for the reasons outlined below.

The Study surveyed the residential character of each part of Geelong, described that character through words and photographs and produced guidelines in the form of brochures to maintain, enhance and improve the character of each part of the municipality. The Study acknowledged the challenges of identifying and describing residential character in Geelong given the diversity of townships and suburbs in the municipality.

The Study dates back to 2001 and development over the last 12 years has seen some significant changes to townships and suburbs across the municipality. More contemporary architecture, two storey forms, prevalence of garaging, reduced front setbacks and an increase in housing typologies mean the existing and preferred character statements do not necessarily reflect what is occurring in 2013. A key criticism of the brochures is that they are generic given the large areas they cover.

The need for developments to have regard to neighbourhood character is embedded in the planning scheme with reference to this within state and local planning policy, notably ResCode which guides the assessment of medium density housing includes neighbourhood character as a specific objective that needs to considered.

More detailed discussion is provided in relation to this recommendation in the implementation report on reformed residential zones.


Urban Growth Zoned Areas

Key growth areas in the municipality are zoned Urban Growth Zone (UGZ) include Armstrong Creek and a current proposal to apply the zone to the Lara west growth area.

The UGZ is impacted by the new zones as the applied zones will need to be amended to refer to the new residential zones. It is proposed that this is resolved as part of a separate amendment process.


Summary of Recommendations

Appendix 1 to this report provides a summary of the translation and maps identifying the proposed zone changes.

Appendix 2 to this report provides a summary of changes required to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme to implement the recommendations.

Appendix 3 to this report provides a copy of the key policy changes including proposed new zones and schedule, new local planning policy for Increased Housing Diversity Areas and amended Incorporated Document “Key Development and Increased Housing Diversity Areas.”

The following table provides a summary of the proposed implementation of the reformed residential zones:

Proposed Zone

Local areas

Design and siting - ResCode variations

Maximum building height

Maximum no. of dwellings on a lot

Residential Growth Zone (no schedule)

  • Waurn Ponds Key Development Area

  • Residential 2 Zone areas around the periphery of Central Geelong

  • Latrobe Terrace frontage area

None specified

Should be no higher than 13.5 metres

None specified

Residential Growth Zone Schedule 1

  • Urban Increased Housing Diversity Areas (including Geelong West, Vines Road and Manifold Heights areas)

  • Front setback – 4 metres

  • Site coverage – maximum 70%

  • Private open space – minimum area of 20 square metres with a minimum width of 3 metres

Should not exceed 13.5 metres

None specified

Residential Growth Zone Schedule 2

  • Coastal Increased Housing Diversity Areas (around coastal town centres)

  • Front setback – 5.5 metres

  • Site coverage – maximum 70%

  • Private open space – minimum area of 20 square metres with a minimum width of 3 metres

Must not exceed 10.5 metres

None specified

General

Residential Zone (no schedule)

  • Newtown (Chilwell)

  • All other Residential 1 Zoned areas

None Specified

Should not exceed 9 metres

None specified

General Residential Zone Schedule 1

  • Incremental Change Areas currently zoned Residential 3

  • Landscaping - one canopy tree per dwelling

  • Private open space – A total of 60 m² with a minimum area at the side or rear of the dwelling of 40m² with a minimum dimension of 5 metres.

Must not exceed 9 metres

None specified

Neighbourhood Residential Zone (no schedule)

  • North Shore

None specified

Must not exceed 8 metres

Two dwellings

Neighbourhood Residential Zone Schedule 1

  • Newtown (hill)

  • Drumcondra

  • Landscaping - one canopy tree per dwelling

  • Private open space – A total of 60 m² with a minimum area at the side or rear of the dwelling of 40m² with a minimum dimension of 5 metres.

Must not exceed 8 metres

Two dwellings


In order to implement the new zones it is recommended that Council undertake a standard planning scheme amendment process enabling public consultation during statutory exhibition of the amendment.

Some Councils across Victoria have requested the Minister to approve a 20(4) amendment in order to implement the new zones. This process does not provide for public consultation. Given the additional strategic work that has been undertaken to inform the proposed translation into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme, it is considered appropriate that a standard planning scheme amendment process be undertaken.


Environmental Implications

This report has positive environmental implications in relation to encouraging a more sustainable urban form with medium density housing being located near activity centres, town centres and train stations. The new zones provide for greater clarity in relation to the policy difference for various residential areas, which will provide for better outcomes in terms of directing medium density housing to locations where .


Financial Implications

This report does not result in any additional financial implications for Council.

Current approved budget will cover costs associated with a planning scheme amendment.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

The recommendations of this report comply with State Planning Policy in relation to the Practice Note for applying the new residential zones prepared by the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure. As outlined in this report the recommendations are based on Council’s adopted Housing Diversity Strategy which is implemented in the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme.


Alignment to City Plan

The recommendations of this report are consistent with City Plan in relation to promoting a sustainable built environment, sustainable land use and development, increased public transport use, liveable neighbourhoods, quality urban design and built environment and the conservation of historic buildings.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

Officers involved in the drafting of this report own property affected by the proposed planning scheme amendment and therefore have an indirect interest in relation to the recommendations of this report.


Risk Assessment

There are risks associated with Council not resolving a position in relation to implementing the new residential zones, as the Government has stated that it intends to remove the existing zones from the Victorian Planning Provisions on 1st July 2014. Therefore Council must implement the new zones prior to this date.

As outlined in this report, a statutory public exhibition process will be undertaken as part of the standard amendment process, which will provide for community consultation.


Social Considerations

The recommendations of this report provide for managed residential growth in the municipality. Increased density and infill housing is directed to areas that are well serviced which provide good opportunities to meet the demands for smaller households. Incremental change areas provide a balance of providing a mix of housing stock while maintaining the garden character of identified areas. A range of housing is important to provide for the different housing needs in our community.


Human Rights Charter

Human rights relative to the subject matter of this report, such as “ratepayers property rights and a right to a fair hearing” have been considered. The amendment process provides an opportunity for submissions and an opportunity for a fair hearing.


Consultation and Communication

This report recommends that Council undertake a planning scheme amendment in order to implement the new zones. As part of this process a statutory public consultation process will be undertaken, this will give the opportunity for submissions to be made by parties impacted by the amendment.


[Back to List]

2. Amendment C246 Lara West Growth Area – Consideration of Panel Report and Adoption

Portfolio:

Planning – Cr Macdonald

Source:

Economic Development, Planning and Tourism – Strategic Implementation

General Manager:

Peter Bettess

Index Reference:

Application: Amendment C246
Subject: Council Reports 2013


Purpose

This report considers the Panel Report to Amendment C246 and recommends adoption of the Amendment.


Summary

Cr Ansett moved, Cr Fisher seconded -

That Council:

  1. adopts Amendment C246 in the form as outlined in Appendix 6 and Appendix 9 of this report;

  2. submits the adopted Amendment with the prescribed information to the Minister for Planning requesting approval; and

  3. writes to the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure requesting that the Department investigate the need for an overlay control to recognise high pressure gas pipelines and their ‘pipeline measurement lengths (as defined in AS2885)’ in planning schemes, to protect them from encroachment by inappropriate residential development or sensitive land uses and to ensure appropriate conditions are placed on land use and development within ‘pipeline measurement lengths (as defined in AS2885)’.


Carried.


Background

Amendment C246 has been prepared by the Greater Geelong City Council which is the planning authority for this Amendment. The Amendment was initiated by the major landowners in the Lara West Precinct, Lara Lakes Pty Ltd.

The Lara West Precinct covers an area of 390 hectares and is bounded by Bacchus Marsh Road, Patullos Road, O’Halloran’s Road and Windermere Road. Appendix 1 is an aerial map of the area.

The Amendment seeks to rezone the land for urban use. This new community will accommodate approximately 11,000 people and is supported by a range of services including retail and employment precincts, Council community centres, sporting facilities, parklands and open space trails and essential infrastructure.

The Minister for Planning authorised the preparation and exhibition of Amendment C246 on 25 September 2012. Public exhibition occurred between 16 November 2012 and 24 December 2012, with late submissions accepted up to 31 January 2013.

The exhibited Amendment proposed to:

  1. Rezone the land from the Farming and Rural Living zones to the Urban Growth Zone.

  2. Apply a new schedule to Clause 37.07 (Urban Growth Zone).

  3. Amend Clause 21.13 Lara to update the implementation actions to reflect the completion of the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan.

  4. Remove the Land Subject to Inundation Overlay from the Precinct.

  5. Apply a new schedule to Clause 45.06 (Development Contributions Plan Overlay).

  6. Amend Clause 81.01 to incorporate:

A total of 53 submissions were received; 33 offering no objection or support, 1 requesting further information and 19 objecting. ‘In principle support’ submissions which then raised detailed concerns were treated as an objection.

Key issues raised in the objecting submissions included: the preferred location for a Neighbourhood Activity Centre (NAC) in planning for growth in western Lara, directly affected landowner objections, further pressures on Lara’s infrastructure and adverse stormwater drainage impacts.

APA GasNet Australia (Operations) Pty Ltd (APA) lodged a submission requesting modifications to the Precinct Structure Plan to safeguard the high-pressure gas pipeline it owns and operates. The Precinct is traversed by the pipeline (refer to the map in Appendix 1). The Department of Primary Industries submitted that it was seeking advice from Energy Safe Victoria as to whether the Plan provided sufficiently for human safety in the siting of residential areas in proximity to the pipeline.

The APA gas pipeline issue is extensively addressed in the ‘Discussion’ section of this report.

Council resolved on 12 March 2013 to refer the submissions to an Independent Planning Panel appointed by the Minister for Planning. A Panel Hearing occurred over 7 days in late April and early May 2013. Council was represented at the Hearing by Terry Montebello from Maddocks Lawyers.

Nine submitters appeared at the Panel Hearing. The proponent was represented by Harwood Andrews, who called a number of expert witnesses. The developer of the adjacent Manzeene Village project (Dacland Pty Ltd) was represented by a Barrister who also called witnesses – primarily to argue that the preferred location for a NAC in western Lara should be on the Manzeene Village land.

Officers from both Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) and the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) gave evidence at the hearing about the APA gas pipeline, Australian Standard (AS) 2885 and the relationship with land-use planning. Officers from Public Transport Victoria, the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) and the Catholic Education Office appeared in support of the Amendment.

One of the landowners of the larger farming properties proposed for rezoning was represented at the hearing by TGM Pty Ltd. The owners of 180 Patullos Road submitted that the proposed design for the Patullos / Elcho / O’Hallorans Road intersection should be reconsidered to reduce the area of land required for acquisition.


Discussion

A three person Panel, chaired by Mr William O’Neil, conducted the hearing. The Panel provided its report to Council on 19 July 2013.

The Panel has found that the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan and accompanying Amendment C246 documentation has strong strategic planning justification. The Panel also concludes that there is planning policy support for the development of a NAC within the Lara West Precinct.

The Panel concluded that the rezoning of the Patullos Road Area to the Urban Growth Zone is strategically justified and supported, as are the requirements for the preparation of Masterplans for the West Gateway and Patullos Road Areas prior to the granting of a permit to subdivide.

The Panel has accepted the location of land uses identified in the hearing version Urban Structure Plan, Revision V, 02 May 2013 (shown in Appendix 2), subject to further refinements.

Appendix 3 shows the final Future Urban Structure Plan to be adopted. This is the plan that will form part of the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan to be incorporated into the planning scheme. This plan will also appear in the Schedule 4 to the Urban Growth Zone.

The Panel also recommends that notice for newcomers buying into the area about the existence of the pipeline is reasonable. This recommendation is supported.

A copy of the Panel Report’s Consolidated List of Recommendations is in Appendix 4. A table listing all of the recommendations, a summary Council response and adopted Council position is in Appendix 5.

Appendix 6 contains the Amendment documents to be adopted. These are the planning controls to be inserted into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme, subject to approval by the Minister for Planning.

A full copy of the final Incorporated Documents - Precinct Structure Plan, Native Vegetation Precinct Plan and Development Contributions Plan – are located at the end of this report in Appendix 9.

The issues raised during the Panel Hearing, the Panel’s recommendations and Council officer’s response are outlined below using the headings from the Panel Report.

Section 5: The strategic basis for the Amendment

The Panel noted that Council, the proponent (Lara Lakes Pty Ltd) and Dacland Pty Ltd (Manzeene Village developer), all agreed in principle with the need to provide future land supply opportunities for the Lara Township. Accordingly, the Panel believes the Amendment has strong strategic planning justification including support of the Lara Structure Plan.

The Panel did not support the notion put by Dacland that the Manzeene Avenue land should be developed prior to the Lara West land. The Panel found that the additional residential land supply provided for by the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan will provide housing opportunities in the west of the Lara Township in response to demand, and such development is unlikely to compromise the realisation of housing opportunities elsewhere in the township.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.


Section 6: The high-pressure gas pipeline

Summary findings

The Panel states that the protection of the pipeline and the easement and the encroachment of more intense land uses and development within its vicinity under the proposed Lara West Precinct Structure Plan is a matter for careful consideration.

In the Executive Summary the Panel concludes that:

Council Officer Response

There is relatively little information about this State significant asset, and for the purposes of providing proper context and disclosure, Chapter 6: The high-pressure gas pipeline is copied in full in Appendix 7. The location of the pipeline is shown in Appendix 1.

Terry Montebello for Council made it very clear to the Panel that Council is reliant on bodies such as ESV and DPI (now the Department of State Development, Business and Innovation) in relation to this matter. Council does not have the necessary expertise where it comes to the pipeline issue. The conclusions of the Panel are discussed in detail below.

Appropriate terminology to describe the pipeline and its buffer requirements

The Panel adopted the term ‘heat flux zone’ to describe the distance from the pipeline of relevant land uses for a full bore rupture of the pipe leading to ignition of the escaping gas.


Council Officer Response

Subsequent to the Panel Hearing, advice about this term was sought from ESV. Steve Cronin, Manager Performance Standards, Gas and Pipeline Infrastructure Safety, responded:

“The term used in the industry standard (AS2885) is ‘measurement length’. This, unfortunately, is not a very descriptive term, which is why I believe APA introduced the colloquialism ‘heat flux zone’ to the C246 Panel. However, for your purposes, I suggest you use ‘pipeline measurement length’ to identify the relevant distance from the pipeline within which the area of concern falls. There is no defined term that refers to this area of land – the standard uses the phrase: ‘the land within the pipeline measurement length on either side of the pipeline’.

Also, if it’s helpful you could add: ‘(as defined in AS2885)’ – whilst you could also refer to AS2885 Part 1, section 4.3.2, I’m conscious that the standard does get reviewed from time to time, and a word search of an electronic copy may be more helpful in the long term than pointing to the clause number”.

As a result, this report, and relevant C246 Amendment documentation to be implemented into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme will use the term: ‘Pipeline Measurement Length (as defined in AS2885)’ or ‘Pipeline Measurement Length’.


Location of sporting fields and stadium site

The Panel is of the view that the location of these facilities is reasonably flexible, that there is no overriding requirement that they be co-located with the NAC and that consideration could be given to relocating them to a location outside the 554 m ‘pipeline measurement length’. The Panel did not include this finding as a formal recommendation because the AS2885 location class categories do not define these uses.


Council Officer Response

Council officers do not agree that the location of these facilities is ‘reasonably flexible’. While it is agreed that contemporary growth areas planning does not require sporting facilities to be co-located with a NAC, the objective here is to establish a sense of place and synergy in the Lara West Precinct by siting key community and commercial uses on the main internal East-West Connector Street.

Because the ‘pipeline measurement length’ extends beyond the main East-West Connector Street for nearly all its length, if the Panel’s view was accepted, the sporting fields could not be located on this road.

The proposed location of the sporting fields and stadium site interlinks with public open space trails along the primary drainage corridor and electricity transmission easement. The stadium site is strategically located as part of the Secondary School Site and adjacent to the sporting fields to maximise use and enable cost sharing between Council and the Department of Education. This large, central area of open space will also contribute to the existing ‘open bushland feel’ character of Lara and reinforces the important role that sport and recreation plays in the community.

In considering the views of the Panel, Council officers wrote to ESV seeking clarification on this matter, particularly in relation to AS2885. In its response, ESV raises no objection to the proposed location of the sporting fields. A copy of the ESV response is shown in Appendix 8.

Council officers do not support the relocation of the sporting fields and stadium site.


Location of the schools and community centres

The Panel has recommended that the hearing version Urban Structure Plan, Revision V, 02 May 2013, be adopted subject to further refinement to ensure that sites marked for schools and community facilities are entirely outside the 554 m ‘pipeline measurement length’. The Panel considers that the layout of the road and drainage network is flexible enough to allow this adjustment.


Council Officer Response

Council officers question the ‘flexibility’ of the road and drainage network. In the Revision V Plan, both primary schools and the two community centres have been relocated to the north side of the main East-West Connector Street. Schools and community centres are now only marginally in the ‘pipeline measurement length’ – the non-government primary school site is completely outside.

Council’s and the proponent’s overriding objective has been to relocate the schools and community centres clear of the ‘pipeline measurement length’, as opposed to retaining the exhibited locations and attempting to further mitigate the risk of pipeline rupture. This has largely been achieved.

In considering the views of the Panel, Council officers wrote to ESV seeking clarification, particularly in relation to AS2885. In its response, ESV raises no objection to the proposed location of the schools or community centres. A copy of the ESV response is shown in Appendix 8.

Based on the advice from ESV, Council officers are comfortable with the location of the school and community centre sites being located marginally within the ‘pipeline measurement length’ as shown on the Future Urban Structure Plan to be adopted.


Notification to future land buyers

During the course of the Hearing the Panel raised the question of whether or not there should be a mechanism to advise purchasers of property within the Pipeline Measurement Length (as defined in AS2885) of its existence. The Panel ultimately recommended amending the Urban Growth Zone Schedule to include a condition on subdivision permits within the 554 m Pipeline Measurement Length that requires a Section 173 Agreement be registered on land titles.


Council Officer Response

Council officers sought legal advice from Maddocks as to the appropriateness of the use of an Agreement for such a purpose and the proposed Panel wording.

In an email letter dated 02/08/2013 Maddocks advised that the use of an Agreement under section 173 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 is an appropriate mechanism of giving notice. Maddocks also recommended that the wording of section 4.4 to the Urban Growth Zone Schedule as suggested by the Panel be revised.

The Panel recommendation to notify land buyers by use of an Agreement registered on title is supported. The Panel’s suggested wording for inclusion in the Urban Growth Zone Schedule will be changed to the wording recommended by Maddocks.


Section 7: The Neighbourhood Activity Centre

The majority of the 7 day Hearing was consumed by discussion on the most appropriate location for a NAC in planning for growth in western Lara. Dacland argued that its Manzeene Village site, on the corner of Patullos Road and O’Hallorans Road, was the most appropriate location. Dacland has been in discussions with Woolworths and says a retail centre anchored by a supermarket can be delivered in the short-term, will not impact on the Lara Town Centre, and provides a significant net community benefit. Dacland proposed that the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan be amended to downgrade the NAC to a Local Activity Centre.

The proponent rejected this argument, submitting that there is strong strategic justification for a NAC in the Lara West Precinct. Economic evidence by the proponents’ expert is that a supermarket would be supportable at the LWP in about 2020. The evidence also finds that the proposed NAC location, central to the Precinct, provides sufficient distance (4 km) to the Lara Town Centre to ensure that they are not directly competing within the same core catchment area.

Council, in closing, submitted that the NAC site identified in the Lara West Precinct is appropriate due to its central position within a large proposed population base and also within a walkable catchment co-located with community and recreational facilities and medium density housing. Council reiterated that it does not support the early establishment of the Lara West Precinct NAC let alone a Manzeene Village NAC, until there is full utilisation of the Town Centre. Council concluded that there is no amendment for Manzeene Village which includes an activity centre.

The Panel considered all the evidence and submissions and finds:


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported. Officers agree that the NAC is unlikely to be developed by 2020.

It is noted that Amendment C285 Manzeene Village was recently on exhibition and proposes to rezone all land to the General Residential Zone. There is no Commercial 1 Zone component to the Amendment to provide for a NAC.


Section 8: Transport and Movement

The Panel heard evidence and submissions on a number of traffic and transport issues. The Panel noted that concerns about traffic problems well beyond the Lara West Precinct would be addressed by Council in its review of the Lara Transport Management Plan. Public Transport Victoria (PTV) submitted that they are planning a bus route through the Lara West Precinct and requested a number of modifications to the PSP which are supported by Council.

Council advised the Panel that, consistent with the views of PTV, the main East-West Connector Street should be extended to Manzeene Avenue. PTV submitted at the hearing saying that an easterly extension would provide “the best opportunity in terms of directness, safety and catchment for a future bus route planned to service the Lara West Precinct and the Manzeene Village site”. PTV suggested that an arrow be shown on the Precinct Structure Plan. This was opposed by Dacland.

Dacland provided expert evidence to argue why their site is a more logical choice for a future NAC on traffic engineering grounds. The Panel did not support this view and found that it is appropriate for the NAC to be located in the Lara West Precinct. The Panel also said that a location on the main East-West Connector Street, extended to Manzeene Avenue will facilitate bus access to the Centre and co-located facilities. The Panel regarded this as a very important attribute in an area that is likely to have a relatively low level of public transport service for some time.

The Panel heard submissions from the landowner of 180 Patullos Road regarding loss of some of their land for the upgrading of the Elcho Road / Patullos Road intersection. The landowner suggested that alternative designs should be considered. The Panel noted that no traffic evidence had been produced that casts doubt on the proposed design and accepts the need for signalisation as part of the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan. The Panel made no finding to the matter of the extent of the acquisition of land to be dealt with under Amendment C290.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.

Consistent with the Panel’s and PTV’s views to extend the Lara West Precinct main East-West Connector Street east, Amendment C285 Manzeene Village supports continuing this road through to Manzeene Avenue and exiting at Kees Road.

Amendment C290 exhibition period has closed and a submission from the landowners of 180 Patullos Road was received. The submission is currently under consideration.


Section 9: Drainage

The proponent’s drainage expert, Mr Craigie, gave evidence about the proposed stormwater management strategy. Mr Craigie described the objectives of the strategy and noted that the site’s flat topography is such that the 1% (1 in 100 year) flood is extensive and flows down gently sloped, wide depressions towards Hovells Creek in the east, at a depth less than 110 mm.

The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority urged that the current Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO) be retained until post-development 1% AEP flood extent is confirmed. Council submitted that the LSIO need not be retained as the new Urban Growth Zone schedule and Precinct Structure Plan will fulfil this role, which was supported by the Panel.

Submissions by both Dacland and the landowner of Property 8 in the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan raised concerns about the exclusion of drainage costs in the Development Contributions Plan (DCP). Council highlighted that through an extensive consultation process with its engineers, the proponent and Dacland, it was determined that the drainage design will be a developer-funded item. Mr Tobin for Lara Lakes opposed the inclusion of drainage items within the DCP.

The Panel accepted the evidence of Mr Craigie about the objectives underpinning the drainage strategy. The Panel noted that detailed design and costing of the system will be a significant engineering task that the Panel understands will be the responsibility of the various owners through whose land the drainage system passes. The Panel’s view is that until the drainage design is further advanced and costed, it is not possible to include drainage in the DCP.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.


Section 10: Development Contributions

Council gave evidence to the Panel to support the DCP, providing an overview of the Development Contributions Plan Principles and the rationale for the identification of the five different charge areas and apportionment of costs. Mr Anderson, Council’s DCP expert witness stated that the Lara West Development Contributions Plan delivers an infrastructure funding regime that is fair, affordable and aligns with the vision for the growth area in providing a best practice sustainable development.

Mr Montebello, for Council, noted that a number of the concerns raised by Dacland to the exhibited DCP had been resolved prior to the hearing, subject to minor changes agreed by both parties. Mr Anderson, in response the Panel’s request, following the hearing forwarded a consolidated list of proposed changes to the Amendment documentation, all of which was supported by both the proponent and Dacland.

Mr Marshall for G & L Wilks (Property 8 landowner) submitted that drainage should be included as an infrastructure item to be funded by the DCP. This was not supported by the Panel. The Panel has supported the suggestion by the Catholic Education Office to modify the schedule to the Development Contributions Plan Overlay (DCPO) to make it explicit that land for the development of non-government schools is exempt from the overlay.

The Panel concluded that:


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.


Section 11: Other issues

Retention of Patullos Road Area for Rural Living

Some of the landowners in this area oppose the rezoning, preferring to retain their existing rural outlook, amenity and lifestyle. The landowner at 245 Patullos Road supports the rezoning. In its submission, Mr Montebello for Council acknowledged that the country setting of the area is a feature which many existing residents would like to see retained. Mr Montebello submitted that the rezoning outcome has followed a rigorous strategic planning process which was supported by the C198 Panel, Lara Structure Plan and ultimately the Municipal Strategic Statement.

The Panel found that the rezoning of the Patullos Road area to the Urban Growth Zone is strategically justified and supported. The Panel noted that existing landowners are not obliged to develop their land at conventional lot densities or actively participate in the Master Planning process and that the Precinct will be developed over a 30 year period.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.


West Gateway Masterplan

One of the landowners within the West Gateway Area submitted that the provisions are unduly restrictive. Of particular concern is the requirement that a Masterplan must be prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority prior to being able to grant a permit to subdivide land. The submission requests that the Urban Growth Zone clause should be amended to allow existing and future land owners to subdivide their land into no more than two parts and that this subdivision can occur before a Masterplan of the West Gateway Area has been prepared.

The Panel did not support this request as it would potentially compromise the future long term development and integration of the land with the wider Precinct. The Panel said that there is no time frame or any mechanism to compel any landowner to be part of a future Masterplan process that would see this land developed into conventional residential use. The panel also noted that these findings equally apply to the Patullos Road Area.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.


Section 12: Changes to the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan

The Panel noted that in response to submissions made during the exhibition of the amendment, the Council endorsed a number of changes to the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan. Further changes to the Plan were suggested during the course of the Hearing which are outlined in Chapter 12 of the Panel Report. Changes were suggested by Council, the proponent, ESV, the Catholic Education Office, DEPI, PTV, the landowner of Property 8 in the Lara West Precinct and Dacland Pty Ltd.

The Panel considers that the changes recommended and supported by Council all generally contribute to improving the clarity and direction of the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan. The Panel identified ensuring consistency of legends in the various plans and the preparation of an Urban Design Framework for the Employment Precinct as further improvements.

The Panel pointed out that the relocation of the eastern community facilities would result in the loss of a small patch of native vegetation, and that DEPI advised that this patch could be offset. DEPI also advised that a consequent change should be made to the Native Vegetation Precinct Plan.

With regard to design parameters or standards for use and development within the gas pipeline measurement length, the Panel stated it evident that ESV should develop appropriate processes and guidelines to deal with these matters into the future, as this Amendment has highlighted ‘gaps’ in the planning system.

The Panel endorsed Council’s approach to the submission by the Catholic Education Office. That is, because the Catholic Education Office has no current interest in the land and therefore no commitment to the provision of a school at the designated site, it should not be designed as ‘Non Government (Catholic) School’ on the plan. The Panel also did not support the Catholic Education Office request to add an additional paragraph in the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan.

The Panel supported the approach of PTV and Council to show an arrow on the plan that a future road link (i.e. the main East-West Connector Street) could be achieved between the Lara West Precinct and Manzeene Village. Dacland did not support this change, recommending that any ‘connection’ should be offset by 60-100 metres to ensure safety considerations.

Mr Marshall for the landowner of Property 8 requested that direct access to the site from O’Halloran’s Road, to better assist development, should be shown on the plan. This was supported by the Panel.

Overall, the Panel found that the changes recommended improve the clarity of the document and do not materially transform the scope of nature of the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are supported.


Section 13: Other Proposed Changes to Planning Controls

During the Hearing, submitters requested other various changes to the Amendment. In Chapter 13 of its report, the Panel discusses and makes recommendations about the changes. The changes and the proposed controls are outlined below:


Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS)

The Panel supported the changes to Clause 21.13 of the MSS as exhibited by Council. No party objected to these changes.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are supported.


Urban Growth Zone Schedule

In its submission Council advised the Panel of a number of early changes to the Schedule. Also, during the course of the hearing other changes put forward by Council, Mr Tobin and Mr Tweedie were discussed in detail during a ‘without prejudice’ session on the last day. These changes are referred to on pages 92-94 of the Panel Report.

The majority of the changes proposed were supported by all parties. The Panel said the changes will contribute to improving the clarity and transparency of the Schedule and have updated information where required.

The Panel then addressed outstanding issues.

Mr Tobin for Lara Lakes Pty Ltd suggested that the pipeline measurement length should be depicted on the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan and not shown on Map 1 to the Schedule. The Panel disagreed, recommending that “Map 1 be amended to show the location of the high-pressure gas pipeline and pipeline measurement lengths – the 324 m and 554 m zones”.

Mr Tobin suggested that there was no need for an Urban Design Framework for the Employment Precinct as this would place an unreasonable burden on the landowner. The Panel disagreed, saying the requirement for an Urban Design Framework is consistent with the approach adopted for the NAC.

The Panel was satisfied with Council’s revisions to Clause 3.1 Environmental Assessment. Mr Tobin proposed that the clause be amended so that a site assessment is not required for land identified in the SMEC report, Phase 1 Environmental Assessment, Proposed Lara Lakes Estate, Area 4, July 2011, as preliminary assessment works had been undertaken. The Panel did not support this amendment.

Mr Tobin suggested a new section to Clause 4.0 Conditions and requirements for permits, to require a Construction Management Plan for all buildings and works proposed in the pipeline measurement length. Council disagreed, submitting that the new referral provision in Clause 3.3 would ensure that ESV would consider these issues. The Panel agreed with Council.

Mr Tweedie for Dacland, proposed a number of changes in relation to the NAC. Mr Tweedie proposed to re-name the NAC to a Local Activity Centre - Area 1 and the eastern centre to be re-named Local Activity Centre - Area 2. Both Council and Mr Tobin disagreed. The Panel did not support Mr Tweedie’s position concluding that the proposal is not appropriate nor a good planning process or outcome.

The Panel requested that Council address the potential impact of the application of the new zones introduced by the Minister for planning and how they would affect Clause 2.2 ‘Applied zone provisions’.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are generally supported. Appendix 5 includes the Schedule 4 to the Urban Growth Zone for adoption.

Regarding the new zones, Council advised the Panel that the proposed Business 1 Zone for the NAC and Local Activity Centre would be translated to the Commercial 1 Zone, and that the Employment Precinct would be translated to the Commercial 2 Zone. Land shown as ‘Residential conventional’ and ‘Residential medium density’ will have the General Residential Zone applied.

The Panel’s recommendation that “Map 1 be amended to show the location of the high-pressure gas pipeline and pipeline measurement lengths – the 324 m and 554 m zones” appears to be an error and should only refer to the ‘554 m zone’. Reference to the ‘554 m zone’ only is consistent with the Panel Report recommendation 14.2 and the Appendix C draft schedule.


Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO)

The Panel highlighted that much of the northern boundary of the Precinct area is included in the LSIO and that the amendment proposes to remove the overlay. Mr Montebello for Council referred the Panel to Mr Craigie’s investigation and report that found that the area subject to flooding was not confined to the area in the LSIO, but covered a far more extensive area.

Over the course of the Hearing, the exhibited Amendment documents were modified to require a referral of applications for development to the relevant Catchment Management Authority if the site were identified to be subject to flooding in Plan 19 of the incorporated Lara West Precinct Structure Plan. Both Mt Craigie and the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA) recommended that the LSIO be retained.

Council submitted that a referral to the Corangamite CMA on the basis of the identification of land subject to flooding identified in an Incorporated Document is a satisfactory approach. The Panel agreed with Council’s approach and concluded that the deletion of the LSIO from the Planning Scheme Maps 12 is appropriate.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.


Development Contributions Plan Overlay

Mr Montebello for Council submitted that the Development Contributions Plan Overlay is the most appropriate planning tool in which to identify and cost infrastructure items that are to be provided within a precinct plan area.

This position was not disputed by any parties to the Panel. The Panel noted that where issues were raised, they were matters of cost and apportionment and addressed in Section 8 of the Report.


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.


Clause 52.01 Public open space contribution and subdivision

At the Directions Hearing, Mr Montebello for Council advised the Panel that a minor change to the Amendment was required to include the Lara West Urban Growth Area in the Schedule to Clause 52.01 ‘Public open space contribution and subdivision’.

No other parties objected and the proposal was supported by the Panel.


Council Officer Response

In reviewing this change recommended by Council at the Hearing, officers realised it was made in error. The Schedule to Clause 52.01 currently requires the subdivision of land zoned for residential purposes to provide a 10% open space contribution (for 10 or more lots). As a result, the Schedule does not need to be amended.


Incorporated Documents

The Panel agreed that the Lara West Growth Area Native Vegetation Precinct Plan is the appropriate tool to address the identification, removal and offset provision for any native vegetation within the precinct plan area. The Panel supported minor changes to the Amendment documents requested by the Department of Environment and Primary Industries.

The Panel recommended that the Lara West Growth Area Native Vegetation Precinct Plan Incorporated Document be amended by:


Council Officer Response

The findings of the Panel are consistent with the policy position of Council and supported.


Matters arising after receiving the Panel Report

APA GasNet Letter

On 3 September 2013 Council received a letter from Hall & Wilcox Lawyers acting for APA GasNet. The letter notes that APA and ESV made submissions to the Panel considering the draft Lara West Precinct Structure Plan on the potential implications of urban encroachment on its existing high pressure gas pipeline.

The letter states that APA endorses the recommendations in the C246 Panel Report and considers there is merit in the Victoria Planning Provisions incorporating a specific pipeline notification overlay. The letter goes on to say that APA queries whether the proposed section 173 agreement is appropriate, however intends to take this up as part of broader submissions to the Department of State Development, Business and Innovation (DSDBI) and the Minister for Planning.

Finally, APA requests in the letter that it be named as the referral authority referred to in the proposed referral provisions to be contained in the urban growth zone schedule, instead of ESV. Hall & Wilcox were instructed that ESV shares that position. The letter says that as the pipeline licensee, APA is responsible for regulatory and statutory compliance and is the most appropriate body to assess the potential impact of proposed land uses or developments in the pipeline’s vicinity.

Council officers acknowledge the support received from APA during the amendment process and similarly endorses the Panel’s recommendations subject to changes outlined in this report. Officers note that the Council resolution includes writing to the Minister’s department to investigate the need for an overlay control to recognise the gas pipeline and its measurement length.

Regarding the referral provisions in the Amendment documentation, officers sought direction on this issue from Earth Resources Regulation Victoria, a division of DSDBI.

Advice was provided by Rachel Carney, Program Manager - Planning, Earth Resources Regulation:

“Currently all referrals relating to pipelines should be sent to DSDBI who operate under the Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005. This method referencing is used under Part 3 of the Planning and Environment Regulations 2005 which relates to the notice of planning scheme amendments. ESV also operate under the same Minister but a current Memorandum of Understanding between the two gives DSDBI the responsibility of dealing with all matters relating to the Planning and Environment Act 1987. This may change in the future, but by referencing the Minister rather than a specific Government Department Branch, such changes can occur without requiring amendments to planning schemes.

DSDBI and ESV are currently in discussions as to whether it is appropriate to include licensees as referral agencies and in this case request that any referral / notice takes place as requested above”.

As a result of this advice, both the Schedule to the Urban Growth Zone and the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan will substitute referral/notice provisions to ESV and/or APA with the ‘Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005’.

Additional change to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme

In finalising the Amendment documents to be implemented into the Planning Scheme, it has come to the attention of officers that an amendment should also be made to the Schedule to Clause 66.04 Referral of permit applications under local provisions.

This clause specifies a person or body as a referral authority (under section 55 of the Planning and Environment Act) if a local provision in the scheme contains a referral requirement. Importantly, the clause also says that if the requirement is not included in the schedule to this clause, it is not a referral requirement under section 55 of the Act.

The proposed Schedule 4 to the Urban Growth Zone in section 3.0, contains referral provisions for native vegetation, the high-pressure gas pipeline and flood mitigation. To ensure applications are appropriately referred to the relevant bodies under section 55 of the Act, the schedule to Clause 66.04 has been amended. This change does not transform Amendment C246 but properly utilises the Victoria Planning Provisions.


Environmental Implications

The Lara West Precinct Structure Plan and the Lara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan forms part of the Amendment and will be incorporated into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme.

These documents are underpinned by extensive technical assessment and review and include a range of objectives and requirements to reduce environmental impacts and support sustainable development.


Financial Implications

The Development Contributions Plan (DCP) is the primary mechanism for funding infrastructure to service the new growth area. The growth area requires in the order of $40M of infrastructure of which the DCP will fund approximately $36M.

Council will be responsible for managing the funds collected through the DCP and either directly delivering the required infrastructure or making arrangements for developers to construct infrastructure as “works in lieu”.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

Clause 11.02 ‘Urban Growth’ of the State Planning Policy Framework requires planning authorities to ensure that sufficient residential land is available to meet forecast demand.

The Lara West Growth Area is identified as ‘Future residential’ in the Lara Structure Plan and Clause 21.13 of the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme. Clause 21.13 supports the rezoning when a review of lot supply indicates rezoning is necessary to continue to achieve at least 15 years lot supply taking into consideration any infill opportunities that will not be realised in the short term.

The Amendment documentation includes an assessment of land supply in Lara which finds that there is between 7 and 12 years supply. The assessment is considered accurate and provides sufficient strategic merit to rezone the land at this time.

The land is also identified in the G21 Regional Growth Plan for planned urban growth.


Alignment to City Plan

The Amendment supports the Growing our Economy and Sustainable Built and Natural Environment strategic directions of City Plan.

The rezoning will maintain an appropriate supply of residential land in northern Geelong, and facilitate significant, long term investment in an area identified in Council’s Municipal Strategic Statement for growth.

The Lara West Precinct Structure Plan and Development Contributions Plan promote development of a sustainable built environment. This will be achieved by delivering community and retail facilities, integrated management of stormwater and open space, and an efficient transport and movement network.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No Council officer involved in the report has any direct or indirect interest, in accordance with section 80(C) of the local Government Act.


Risk Assessment

There are no notable risks associated with implementing the recommendations contained in this report.


Social Considerations

Councils are required to ensure a sufficient supply of land is available in designated growth areas for residential, commercial and other community uses, including affordable housing close to jobs, transport and services.

The Lara West Growth Area will be a fully planned community that promotes affordable housing. The scale of development, staged over many years, will also be a significant economic and employment generator for the Geelong region.


Human Rights Charter

The Amendment will not impact on any basic rights, freedoms and responsibilities as set out in the Charter. Planning legislation ensures an open community consultation process occurs, enabling people to freely express their views and if necessary obtain a fair hearing before an Independent Panel.


Consultation and Communication

Council officers have written to submitters and landowners to the Amendment to advise of the Panel recommendations, and included the Panel Report Executive Summary. Submitters and landowners will be notified of the final decision of Council and the Minister for Planning.


Appendix 1 - Aerial Location Map

Appendix 1 - Aerial Location Map

Appendix 2 - Panel Hearing Version, Urban Structure Plan: Rev V, 02 May 2013

Appendix 2 - Panel Hearing Version, Urban Structure Plan: Rev V, 02 May 2013

Appendix 3 – Final Future Urban Structure Plan (to be adopted)

Appendix 3 – Final Future Urban Structure Plan (to be adopted)

Appendix 4 - C246 Panel Report: Consolidated List of Recommendations

14. Consolidated list of Recommendations

14.1 Amendment C246 and Exhibited Documentation

  1. The Panel recommends that the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan, Lara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, Lara West Development Contributions Plan and the documentation forming Planning Scheme Amendment C246 to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme be adopted as exhibited subject to the modifications below.

  2. (i) Modifications to more than one document

  3. Adopt the Urban Structure Plan - Revision V, 02 May 2013 (Hearing Document 26) as Plan 5: Future Urban Structure in the LWPSP and as Map 1 – Lara West Precinct Structure Plan in the UGZ Schedule subject to the following further refinements:

    1. Identify / show the location of the 554 metre “heat flux zone”;

    2. Modify the footprint of sites marked for schools and community facilities so that they are entirely outside the 554 metre “heat flux zone”; and

    3. Improve the legibility of the legend and achieve consistency in terminology within the LWPSP.

    (ii) Schedule to the Urban Growth Zone

  4. Replace the exhibited version of the Schedule to the Urban Growth Zone with the Panel Recommended UGZ Schedule contained in Appendix C of this report.

    (iii) Change to Clause 52.01

  5. Amend the Schedule to Clause 52.01 ‘Public open space contribution and subdivision’ by including the following words in the column ‘Type of location of subdivision’:

    See Lara West Urban Growth Area Diagram 4

    and by including the following words in the column ‘Amount of contribution for public open space’:

    10% (unencumbered).

    (iv) Changes to the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan

  6. Amend Plan 4 – Precinct Features of LWPSP to indicate both the 554 m and the 324 m “heat flux zones”.

  7. Amend Plans 5, 15 and 16 to include an ‘arrow’ pointing east, at the eastern end of the east/west connector street to indicate a possible future connection with land to the east.

  8. Amend Plans 5, 6, 7, 8, 14, 15 and 16 to show a connector street to provide access to Property 8 from O’Hallorans Road between the East-West Connector Street and the stormwater retarding basin.

  9. Include the new Section 2.5 ‘APA Gas Easement and Pipeline’, in accordance with the draft submitted by Council on 12 April 2013, with further modification to include the following as the final paragraph:

    The APA assessment identified a “heat flux zone” as being land up to 554 m from the pipeline where certain intense or sensitive land uses should be excluded and residential density should not exceed 30 lots per hectare. Any permit application for the use, development or subdivision of land within the “heat flux zone” as shown in the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan must be referred to Energy Safe Victoria for consideration and its advice will be taken into account in the decision.

  10. Subject to acceptance by APA and ESV, following Table 2 ‘Summary – Residential Lot Yield Analysis’, include Figures 1 and 2 Subdivision Design Concepts, generally in accordance with Mr Milner’s Options 1 and 2, submitted in his evidence to the Panel.

  11. Delete the planning and design guidelines for the Employment Precinct at Section 4.5.1 and include a new subsection at Section 4.5.4 ‘Urban Design Framework’ that provides the requirements of a UDF for the Employment Precinct. Suggested wording:

    Employment Precinct

    An urban design framework for the employment precinct should:

  12. Amend dot point 3 of Section 4.5.3 ‘Planning and Design Guidelines: Activity Centres and Employment’ to require an Urban Design Framework Plan to be prepared for the Employment Precinct prior to any building and works. Suggested wording is:

    Before development starts an urban design framework must be completed for the employment precinct to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

  13. In addition to the inclusion of the non-contested additional 2 dot points to Section 4.7.3, Planning and Design Guidelines: Utilities and Energy, include the following as the 5th dot point:

  14. Amend the LWPSP to reflect the following changes proposed by Council or the proponent in response to submissions and evidence that were not opposed:

    1. Amend Map 5 ‘Future Urban Structure’ and other relevant plans to show the location of the eastern most park swapped with the eastern community centre to ensure the community centre is outside the heat flux zone. (Note: This will also require a change to the native vegetation precinct plan as the park in the current location has a small patch of native vegetation that will require an offset to be provided).

    2. Amend Plans 5, 7, 8, 14, 15 and 16 to include an annotation that the road network in the rural residential areas of West Gateway and Patullos Road is ‘indicative only’.

    3. Replace Section 2.1 ‘Heritage’ with the following wording:

      There is one previously registered Aboriginal heritage site within the boundary of the LWP. The site comprises a single isolated artefact identified during monitoring of excavation of a gas pipeline trench. The existence of this site of relatively low significance is not envisaged to impact on future development. The presence of other areas of cultural heritage sensitivity external to but within close proximity of the boundary of the LWP, particularly in the north (within the Windermere Road and powerline easement intersection) and to the north-east of the LWP will trigger the need to prepare a Cultural Heritage Management Plan, prior to the development of affected lands.

    4. IV. Amend Section 3.1.1 Sense of Place and Community to include the following wording:

      Public art within the LWP will provide opportunities for local communities (and broader audiences) to relate in new ways to the natural and built environment. Art is an important element in the urban fabric, providing interest and opportunity for a deeper connection with place, environment, storytelling, way finding and community identity.

    5. Amend Section 3.1.3 Accessible and Vibrant Activity Centres, to include the following wording:

      The NAC shall create a range of public art opportunities to enhance sense of place, interpret heritage and landscape and promote the identity and character of the LWP.

    6. Amend the text within Section 3.2, the Land Use Budget at Table 1, and the Summary Residential Lot Yield Analysis at Table 2 to reflect the impact of the gas pipeline.

    7. Amend Section 4.1.3 Planning and Design Guidelines: Image and Character to include the following additional dot points:

      Public art is encouraged and where provided should meet the requirements of the responsible authority;

      Planning for public art needs to identify opportunities of different types for artists to respond to the design of new development, its context and the makeup of the community.

    8. Amend dot points 3 and 4 of Section 4.2.3 ‘Planning and Design Guidelines: Subdivision and Housing’ to replace the word ‘must’ with ‘should’.

    9. Amend Section 4.3.3 to acknowledge the preference for school site to be serviced by three street frontages.

    10. Amend Plan 12, ‘Landscape Master Plan’ to show the extension of shared pathways in the gas pipeline easement.

    11. Amend the guidelines that must be met in Section 4.6.3 Planning and Design Guidelines for Transport and Movement as follows:

    12. Amend the guidelines that should be met in Section 4.6.3 Planning and Design Guidelines for Transport and Movement as follows:

    13. Amend Plan 17, ‘Public Transport’, to identify the western, north-south collector road as a potential bus route.

    14. Update the titles of all Figures in section 4.6.3 to reflect correct numbering.

    15. Amend the O’Hallorans Road Cross Section – Connector Road Category 4 (new Figure C1) and the Patullos Road Cross Section – Connector Road Category 4 (new Figure C2) to include a 2.5m shared path.

    16. Amend the ‘Connector Roads Level 1 with bus’ cross section (new Figure D2), so that footpaths on both sides of the road are 2.5 metres wide, and a minimum road reservation of 25.4 metres.

    17. Amend the ‘Connector Street – Level 2’ cross section (new Figure D3) to show 7 metre bus clearance and 2.5 metre shared path.

    18. Amend Section 4.7.2 Implementation Utilities and Energy to include the following as the 4th dot point:

    19. Amend Section 4.7.3, Planning and Design Guidelines: Utilities and Energy to include the following as dot points 4 and 5:

    20. Replace references to the Department of Sustainability and Environment with the Department of Environment and Primary Industries.

    21. (v) Changes to the Lara West Precinct Native Vegetation Precinct Plan

  15. Amend the Lara West Growth Areas Native Vegetation Precinct Structure Plan Incorporated Document by:

    1. Changing all references to the Department of Sustainability and Environment to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries;

    2. Permitting a native vegetation offset to be provided for the relocated eastern park (relocated to the south side of the east/west connector street and the eastern community centre relocated to the park site); and

    3. Updating references in light of the changes to the native vegetation framework contained in, Reforms to Victoria's Native Vegetation Permitted Clearing Regulations released on 22 May 2013 by the Minister for Environment and Climate Change.

    (vi) Changes to Lara West Development Contributions Plan and Schedule 5 to the DCPO

  16. Realign the boundary of Charge Area B in all LWDCP Maps to reflect the actual boundary of the Patullos Road area as identified in Plan 5 of the PSP.

  17. Modify the Project Sheet for DI_C_2 (Western Multipurpose Community Centre – Construction) in Appendix 2 of the LWDCP by:

  18. Exclude the 20 metre wide APA gas easement from the extent of the Net Developable Area in the LWDCP and ensure that the change to the NDA flows right through all LWDCP calculations.

  19. Amend the various tables in the LWDCP and Schedule 5 to the DCP Overlay to reflect the correct calculations and inputs for all projects and charge areas as set out in ‘Table B’ of Hearing Document 9 (Mr Anderson’s addendum explanatory report).

  20. Modify the text in Clause 5 of Schedule 5 to the DCP Overlay so the sentence reads:

    The Development Contributions Plan applies to all land in the Lara West Main Catchment Area, other than land required for the development of non-government schools, for a period of 20 years.

14.2 Other Recommendations

  1. That the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure investigate the need for an overlay control to recognise high pressure gas pipelines and their “heat flux zones” in planning schemes, to protect them from encroachment by inappropriate residential development or sensitive land uses and to ensure appropriate conditions are placed on land use and development within “heat flux zones”.



Appendix 5 - Panel Recommendations and Council Response

Panel Recommendation
Greater Geelong Planning Scheme - Amendment C246

Summary Council Response

Adopted Council Position

Panel Report: Chapter 14 Rec #

General

The Panel recommends that the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan, Lara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, Lara West Development Contributions Plan and the documentation forming Planning Scheme Amendment C246 to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme be adopted as exhibited subject to the modifications below.

Supported subject to changes outlined in this report.

As per Panel recommendation subject to changes outlined in this report.

1

Lara West Precinct Structure Plan

Adopt theUrban Structure Plan - Revision V, 02 May 2013 (Hearing Document 26) asPlan 5: Future Urban Structure in the LWPSP and asMap 1 – Lara West Precinct Structure Plan in the UGZ Schedule subject to the following further refinements:

  1. Identify / show the location of the 554 metre “heat flux zone”;

  2. Modify the footprint of sites marked for schools and community facilities so that they are entirely outside the 554 metre “heat flux zone”; and

  3. Improve the legibility of the legend and achieve consistency in terminology within the LWPSP.

  1. Supported. The Plan will show the 554m ‘pipeline measurement length (as defined in AS2885)’. Note: the term ‘heat flux zone’ is replaced with the term ‘pipeline measurement length (as defined in AS2885)’, following advice from Energy Safe Victoria (ESV).

  2. Not supported. ESV has advised that it would raise no objection to the location of the schools and community facilities as shown on the Plan.

  3. Supported.

The plan will be amended to show the ‘pipeline measurement length’, as will the legend.

2

 

 

Amend Plan 4 – Precinct Features of LWPSP to indicate both the 554 m and the 324 m “heat flux zones”.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

5

Amend Plans 5, 15 and 16 to include an ‘arrow’ pointing east, at the eastern end of the east/west connector street to indicate a possible future connection with land to the east.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

6

Amend Plans 5, 6, 7, 8, 14, 15 and 16 to show a connector street to provide access to Property 8 from O’Hallorans Road between the East-West Connector Street and the stormwater retarding basin.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

7

Include the new Section 2.5 ‘APA Gas Easement and Pipeline’, in accordance with the draft submitted by Council on 12 April 2013, with further modification to include the following as the final paragraph:

The APA assessment identified a “heat flux zone” as being land up to 554 m from the pipeline where certain intense or sensitive land uses should be excluded and residential density should not exceed 30 lots per hectare. Any permit application for the use, development or subdivision of land within the “heat flux zone” as shown in the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan must be referred to Energy Safe Victoria for consideration and its advice will be taken into account in the decision.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

 

8

Subject to acceptance by APA and ESV, following Table 2 ‘Summary – Residential Lot Yield Analysis’, include Figures 1 and 2 Subdivision Design Concepts, generally in accordance with Mr Milner’s Options 1 and 2, submitted in his evidence to the Panel.

APA GasNet Australia (Operations) Pty Ltd supports the Panel’s recommendations to include Option 1 and 2 into the LWPSP, however express a preference for Option 2. ESV supports the position of APA.

Include Rob Milner’s Option 2 in the LWPSP.

9

Delete the planning and design guidelines for the Employment Precinct at Section 4.5.1 and include a new subsection at Section 4.5.4 ‘Urban Design Framework’ that provides the requirements of a UDF for the Employment Precinct. Suggested wording:

Employment Precinct

An urban design framework for the employment precinct should:

  • Provide for activated ground floor street frontages;
  • Demonstrate the how buildings will be articulated to avoid blank walls along street frontages;
  • Provide an overall landscape concept for the whole employment precinct;
  • Set out provisions for pedestrian and bicycle movement throughout the precinct;
  • Provide guidelines for the provision of service areas for deliveries and waste disposal and access for large vehicles to minimise the impact on the amenity of adjoining uses; and
  • Demonstrate how the employment precinct will visually and physically connect with the surrounding neighbourhoods.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

10

Amend dot point 3 of Section 4.5.3 ‘Planning and Design Guidelines: Activity Centres and Employment’ to require an Urban Design Framework Plan to be prepared for the Employment Precinct prior to any building and works. Suggested wording is:

Before development starts an urban design framework must be completed for the employment precinct to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

11

In addition to the inclusion of the non-contested additional 2 dot points to Section 4.7.3, Planning and Design Guidelines: Utilities and Energy, include the following as the 5th dot point:

  • Any permit application for the use, development or subdivision of land within the ‘heat flux zone’ as shown on Plan 4 or in the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan, must be referred to Energy Safe Victoria for consideration and its advice taken into account in the decision.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

12

Amend Map 5 ‘Future Urban Structure’ and other relevant plans to show the location of the eastern most park swapped with the eastern community centre to ensure the community centre is outside the heat flux zone. (Note: This will also require a change to the native vegetation precinct plan as the park in the current location has a small patch of native vegetation that will require an offset to be provided).

Supported. Note: the community centre will remain marginally within the pipeline measurement length as per ESV advice.

Amend Map 5 to relocate the eastern most park and amend the Lara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan to reflect this additional offset requirement.

13.l

Amend Plans 5, 7, 8, 14, 15 and 16 to include an annotation that the road network in the rural residential areas of West Gateway and Patullos Road is ‘indicative only’.

Supported. Additional text will also be inserted in the Lara West PSP Section 4.6Transport and Movement.

Following Section 4.6.2, last dot point, insert the following:

“Note: the road network in the Patullos Road Area and the West Gateway Area is indicative only and subject to detailed design within the PSP area generally, and more specifically, at the master planning stage for the individual Areas”.

13.ll

Replace Section 2.1 ‘Heritage’ with the following wording:

There is one previously registered Aboriginal heritage site within the boundary of the LWP. The site comprises a single isolated artefact identified during monitoring of excavation of a gas pipeline trench. The existence of this site of relatively low significance is not envisaged to impact on future development. The presence of other areas of cultural heritage sensitivity external to but within close proximity of the boundary of the LWP, particularly in the north (within the Windermere Road and powerline easement intersection) and to the north-east of the LWP will trigger the need to prepare a Cultural Heritage Management Plan, prior to the development of affected lands.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.lll

Amend Section 3.1.1 Sense of Place and Community to include the following wording:

Public art within the LWP will provide opportunities for local communities (and broader audiences) to relate in new ways to the natural and built environment. Art is an important element in the urban fabric, providing interest and opportunity for a deeper connection with place, environment, storytelling, way finding and community identity.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

 

13.lV

Amend Section 3.1.3 Accessible and Vibrant Activity Centres, to include the following wording:

The NAC shall create a range of public art opportunities to enhance sense of place, interpret heritage and landscape and promote the identity and character of the LWP.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.V

Amend the text within Section 3.2, the Land Use Budget at Table 1, and the Summary Residential Lot Yield Analysis at Table 2 to reflect the impact of the gas pipeline.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.Vl

Amend Section 4.1.3 Planning and Design Guidelines: Image and Character to include the following additional dot points:

Public art is encouraged and where provided should meet the requirements of the responsible authority;

Planning for public art needs to identify opportunities of different types for artists to respond to the design of new development, its context and the makeup of the community.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.Vll

Amend dot points 3 and 4 of Section 4.2.3 ‘Planning and Design Guidelines: Subdivision and Housing’ to replace the word ‘must’ with ‘should’.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.Vlll

Amend Section 4.3.3 to acknowledge the preference for school sites to be serviced by three street frontages.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.lX

Amend Plan 12, ‘Landscape Master Plan’ to show the extension of shared pathways in the gas pipeline easement.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.X

Amend the guidelines that must be met in Section 4.6.3 Planning and Design Guidelines for Transport and Movement as follows:

  • Include the following as the 4th dot point – Any planning permit granted for development that increases traffic to the Bacchus Marsh Road/West Gateway intersection will include a condition to require an intersection upgrade, as appropriate.

  • Insert at the end of the 5th dot point – (i.e. all lots will not have direct access to Windermere Road).

  • Insert a new 7th dot point to read – Where applicable, shared paths associated with any Connector Level 1 road category should be located on the side which is adjacent to the drainage reserve to create links with surrounding off-road shared paths.

  • Modify the 9th dot point to change the reference from ‘Director of Public Transport’ to ‘Public Transport Victoria’.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.Xl

Amend the guidelines that should be met in Section 4.6.3 Planning and Design Guidelines for Transport and Movement as follows:

Insert as the 4th last dot point –Future Windermere Road intersection design should be consistent with the future Lara Transport Study

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.Xll

Amend Plan 17, ‘Public Transport’, to identify the western, north-south collector road as a potential bus route.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.Xlll

Update the titles of all Figures in section 4.6.3 to reflect correct numbering.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.XlV

Amend the O’Hallorans Road Cross Section – Connector Road Category 4 (new Figure C1) and the Patullos Road Cross Section – Connector Road Category 4 (new Figure C2) to include a 2.5m shared path.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.XV

Amend the ‘Connector Roads Level 1 with bus’ cross section (new Figure D2), so that footpaths on both sides of the road are 2.5 metres wide, and a minimum road reservation of 25.4 metres.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.XVl

Amend the ‘Connector Street – Level 2’ cross section (new Figure D3) to show 7 metre bus clearance and 2.5 metre shared path.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.XVll

Amend Section 4.7.2 Implementation Utilities and Energy to include the following as the 4th dot point:

  • Figure A: APA Gas Easement and Pipeline (example cross section)

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.XVlll

Amend Section 4.7.3, Planning and Design Guidelines: Utilities and Energy to include the following as dot points 4 and 5:

  • Any development (including roads, earthworks, landscaping, wetlands etc) within 60 metres of the powerline transmission easement must be referred to SPI Powernet for approval prior to the commencement of any works on site,

  • All permit applications for multi-lot or multi-lot staged subdivision in the south of the east-west connector road must be referred to ESV.

Supported in part. The second dot point is not required.

Delete the second dot point from the PSP. Note, this dot point was replaced by Panel Report recommendation 14.12.

13.XlX

Replace references to the Department of Sustainability and Environment with the Department of Environment and Primary Industries.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

13.XX

Schedule to the Urban Growth Zone

Replace the exhibited version of the Schedule to the Urban Growth Zone with thePanel Recommended UGZ Schedule contained in Appendix C of this report.

Supported subject to minor changes from Maddocks Lawyers, DSDBI, ESV and DEPI.

Refer to the UGZ Schedule 4 in Appendix 5.

3

Lara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan

Amend the Lara West Growth Areas Native Vegetation Precinct Structure Plan Incorporated Document by:

  1. Changing all references to the Department of Sustainability and Environment to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries;

  2. Permitting a native vegetation offset to be provided for the relocated eastern park (relocated to the south side of the east/west connector street and the eastern community centre relocated to the park site); and

  3. Updating references in light of the changes to the native vegetation framework contained in, Reforms to Victoria's Native Vegetation Permitted Clearing Regulations released on 22 May 2013 by the Minister for Environment and Climate Change.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

14

Lara West DCP and Schedule to the DCPO

Realign the boundary of Charge Area B in all LWDCP Maps to reflect the actual boundary of the Patullos Road area as identified in Plan 5 of the PSP.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

15

Modify the Project Sheet for DI_C_2 (Western Multipurpose Community Centre – Construction) in Appendix 2 of the LWDCP by:

  • Deleting the references to “and childcare” and “maternal and child health” from the project description;

  • Adding the words “Youth Resource Centre (self-contained)” to the project description; and

  • Deleting the reference to Charge Area “B” in the apportionment of costs entry.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

16

Exclude the 20 metre wide APA gas easement from the extent of the Net Developable Area in the LWDCP and ensure that the change to the NDA flows right through all LWDCP calculations.

Supported.

As per recommendation.

 

17

Amend the various tables in the LWDCP and Schedule 5 to the DCP Overlay to reflect the correct calculations and inputs for all projects and charge areas as set out in ‘Table B’ of Hearing Document 9 (Mr Anderson’s addendum explanatory report).

Supported.

As per recommendation.

18

Modify the text in Clause 5 of Schedule 5 to the DCP Overlay so the sentence reads:

The Development Contributions Plan applies to all land in the Lara West Main Catchment Area, other than land required for the development of non-government schools, for a period of 20 years.

Not supported.

Non-Government school are exempt from payment of Development Contribution in all Development Contribution Plans across the State of Victoria. This is implemented by a Minister direction date 25 January 2012. This position is also consistent with all of Council’s other DCPs.

19

Clause 52.01 to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme

Amend the Schedule to Clause 52.01 ‘Public open space contribution and subdivision’ by including the following words in the column ‘Type of location of subdivision’:

See Lara West Urban Growth Area Diagram 4

and by including the following words in the column ‘Amount of contribution for public open space’:

10% (unencumbered).

Not supported.

The Schedule to Clause 52.01 currently requires the subdivision of land zoned for residential purposes to provide a 10% open space contribution (for 10 or more lots). As a result, the Schedule does not need to be amended.

4

Other Recommendations

That the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure investigate the need for an overlay control to recognise high pressure gas pipelines and their “heat flux zones” in planning schemes, to protect them from encroachment by inappropriate residential development or sensitive land uses and to ensure appropriate conditions are placed on land use and development within “heat flux zones”.

Supported.

Included in the resolution is for Council to write to the DTPLI as recommended by the Panel.

20



Appendix 6 - C246 Amendment for Adoption

Planning and Environment Act 1987
GREATER GEELONG PLANNING SCHEME
AMENDMENT C246
INSTRUCTION SHEET

The planning authority for this amendment is the City of Greater Geelong Council.

The Greater Geelong Planning Scheme is amended as follows:


Planning Scheme Maps

The Planning Scheme Maps are amended by a total of 3 attached map sheets.

Zoning Maps

  1. Amend Planning Scheme Map Nos. 11, 12, 17 and 18 in the manner shown on the attached 1 map marked “Greater Geelong Planning Scheme Amendment C246”.

Overlay Maps

  1. Delete Planning Scheme Map Nos. 12LSIO-FO, 17LSIO-FO and 18LSIO-FO in the manner shown on the 1 attached map marked “Greater Geelong Planning Scheme Amendment C246”.

  2. Insert new Planning Scheme Map Nos. 11DCPO, 12DCPO, 17DCPO and 18DCPO in the manner shown on the 1 attached map marked “Greater Geelong Planning Scheme Amendment C246”.

Planning Scheme Ordinance

The Planning Scheme Ordinance is amended as follows:

  1. In Local Planning Policy Framework – replace Clause 21.13 with a new Clause 21.13 in the form of the attached document.

  2. In Zones – Clause 37.07, insert a new Schedule in the form of the attached document.

  3. In Overlays – Clause 45.06, insert a new Schedule 5 in the form of the attached document.

  4. In Particular Provisions – Clause 52.16, replace the Schedule with a new Schedule in the form of the attached document.

  5. In General Provisions – Clause 61.03, replace the Schedule with a new Schedule in the form of the attached document.

  6. In Referral and Notice Provisions – Clause 66.04, replace the Schedule with a new Schedule in the form of the attached document.

  7. In Incorporated Documents – Clause 81.01, replace the Schedule with a new Schedule in the form of the attached document.

End of document


Map of amendment C246 - sone UGZ
Map of amendment C246 - zone DCPO5
Map of amendment C246 - zone D-LSIO

SCHEDULE 4 TO THE URBAN GROWTH ZONE

“Insert Date”
C246

Shown on the planning scheme map as UGZ4
 

Lara West Precinct Structure Plan (2013)

1.0

The Plan


--/--/----

Map 1 shows the future urban structure proposed in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan (September 2013).
 

Map 1 – Lara West Precinct Structure Plan

  Map 1 – Lara West Precinct Structure Plan

2.0

Use and development


--/--/----

 

2.1

The land


--/--/----

The provisions specified in this schedule only apply to land in the Lara West Precinct (Map 1) that is zoned UGZ.

2.2

Applied zone provisions


--/--/----

The provisions of the following zones in this scheme apply to the use and subdivision of land, construction of a building and construction and carrying out of works, by reference to Map 1 of this schedule.
 

LAND SHOWN ON MAP 1 OF THIS SCHEDULE

APPLIED ZONE PROVISIONS

Residential conventional

Clause 32.08 - General Residential Zone

Residential medium density

Clause 32.08 - General Residential Zone

Activity Centre - Neighbourhood Activity

Clause 34.01 - Commercial 1 Zone

Activity Centre - Local Activity

Clause 34.01 - Commercial 1 Zone

Community facilities

Clause 32.04 - Mixed Use Zone

Education centre

Clause 32.08 - General Residential Zone

Public open space - Unencumbered

Clause 36.02 - Public Park and Recreation Zone

Public open space - encumbered

Clause 36.02 - Public Park and Recreation Zone

Habitat conservation area

Clause 36.02 - Public Park and Recreation Zone

Lara West watercourse and floodway

Clause 36.02 - Public Park and Recreation Zone

Retarding Basins

Clause 36.02 - Public Park and Recreation Zone

Employment Precinct

Clause 34.02 - Commercial 2 Zone

Private school

Clause 32.01 - General Residential Zone

2.3

Specific provisions - Use of land


--/--/----

The use of land must be generally in accordance with theLara West Precinct Structure Plan.

The following provisions apply to the use of land.

 

USE

CONDITION

 

Display home on land shown as residential in Map 1 of this schedule

Despite any requirement under Clause 52.06, car parking must be provided to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

 

Shop on land shown as Employment Precinct in Map 1 of this schedule

Must provide for convenience services in conjunction with other Employment Precinct uses and must not include a supermarket.

 

Child care centre on land shown as Activity Centre - Neighbourhood Activity

Must have written approval of the Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005.

 

Education centre on land shown as Activity Centre - Neighbourhood Activity

Must have written approval of the Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005.

2.4

Specific provisions - West Gateway Area


--/--/----

A permit must not be granted to use or subdivide land or construct a building and carry out works within the West Gateway Area in theLara West Precinct Structure Plan, until a Masterplan of the West Gateway Area has been prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

The Masterplan shall guide the future subdivision, use and development of land within the West Gateway Area.

The objective of this provision is to ensure development occurs generally in accordance with theLara West Precinct Structure Plan, and to require a range of detailed planning issues to be resolved prior to the commencement of development of the Area.

The Masterplan must show or address the following:

  • General accordance with theLara West Precinct Structure Plan.

  • The staging of the development.

  • Delivery of infrastructure including stormwater management.

  • Environmental issues including native vegetation.

  • Integration with adjoining land including road layout.

  • The location of public open space areas.

  • The provision of a potential bus route as advised by Public Transport Victoria.

  • Treatment of the Bacchus Marsh Road/West Gateway intersection as advised by VicRoads.

  • A Detailed Land Use Budget by Property.

A permit may be granted before a Masterplan has been prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority for the following:

  • Construction of one dwelling on an existing lot, including outbuildings, provided it is the only dwelling on the lot.

  • Agriculture and any buildings and works associated with the use of the land for agricultural purposes.

  • Extensions, additions or modifications to any existing use or development.

Except with the consent of the responsible authority, a permit must be consistent with any Masterplan of the West Gateway Area which has been prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority under this provision.

This provision des not apply to land required as part of the integrated stormwater management for the Lara West Precinct.

2.5

Specific provisions - Patullos Road Area


--/--/----

A permit must not be granted to use or subdivide land or construct a building and carry out works within the Patullos Road Area in theLara West Precinct Structure Plan, until a Masterplan of the Patullos Road Area has been prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

The Masterplan shall guide the future subdivision, use and development of land within the Patullos Road Area.

The objective of this provision is to ensure development occurs generally in accordance with theLara West Precinct Structure Plan, and to require a range of detailed planning issues to be resolved prior to the commencement of development of the Area.

The Masterplan must show or address the following:

  • General accordance with theLara West Precinct Structure Plan.

  • The staging of the development.

  • Delivery of infrastructure including stormwater management.

  • Environmental issues including native vegetation.

  • Integration with adjoining land including road layout.

  • The location of public open space areas.

  • Treatment of the high-pressure gas pipeline following consultation with the Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005.

  • A Detailed Land Use Budget by Property.

A permit may be granted before a Masterplan has been prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority for the following:

  • Construction of one dwelling on an existing lot, including outbuildings, provided it is the only dwelling on the lot.

  • Agriculture and any buildings and works associated with the use of the land for agricultural purposes.

  • Extensions, additions or modifications to any existing use or development.

Except with the consent of the responsible authority, a permit must be consistent with any Masterplan of the Patullos Road Area which has been prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority under this provision.

This provision des not apply to land required as part of the upgrade to the Patullos/Elcho/O’Hallorans Road intersection.

2.6

Specific provisions - Neighbourhood Activity Centre


--/--/----

A permit must not be granted to use or subdivide land, or to construct a building or construct and carry out works within the land identified as the Neighbourhood Activity Centre in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan until an urban design framework for the Neighbourhood Activity Centre has been prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

Unless the responsible authority agrees, the urban design framework must include all of the land in the Neighbourhood Activity Centre and must address and respond to Section 4.5 of the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan and any other relevant part of the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan as appropriate.

The urban design framework may be amended to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

2.7

Specific provisions - Employment Area


--/--/----

A permit must not be granted to use or subdivide land, or to construct a building or construct and carry out works within the land identified as the Employment Precinct in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan until an urban design framework for the Employment Precinct has been prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

Unless the responsible authority agrees, the urban design framework must include all of the land in the Employment Precinct and must address and respond to Section 4.5 of the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan and any other relevant part of the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan as appropriate.

The urban design framework may be amended to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

2.8

Specific provisions - Buildings and works


--/--/----

A permit is not required for the construction or carrying out of buildings and works associated with a display home on a lot over 300 square metres.

2.9

Specific provisions - Resolution of doubt


--/--/----

If any doubt arises as to whether a provision specified in this schedule applies to land, a permit may be granted for any use or development if the responsible authority is satisfied that the use or development is in accordance with the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan.

3.0

Application requirements


--/--/----

 

3.1

Environmental Assessment


--/--/----

An application for a permit must be accompanied by site assessment of the land by a suitably qualified environmental professional including:

  • detail of the nature of the previous and existing land use/activities on the land;

  • an assessment of the potential level and nature of contamination on the land; and

  • advice on whether the environmental condition of the land is suitable for the proposed use/s and whether an environmental audit of all, or part, of the land is recommended having regard to the Potentially Contaminated Land General Practice Note June 2005, DSE as amended from time to time.

3.2 Subdivision

--/--/----

An application for subdivision must be accompanied by a site analysis and design response as detailed in Clause 56.01. In addition, the site analysis and design response must show or address the following to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

  • A written statement that explains how the subdivision meets the objectives and planning and design guidelines for the Image and Character and Subdivision and Housing elements of the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan.

  • Integration with the existing or proposed subdivision of adjoining properties including through alignment and configuration of the street network and landscape character.

  • The staging of the development.

  • Where appropriate, the location of proposed planned community infrastructure, public open space areas and their recreation function.

  • An assessment of the existing surface and subsurface drainage conditions on the site by a suitably qualified professional and the potential impacts on the proposed development, including any measures required to mitigate the impacts of springs on the development and the impact of the development on drainage.

  • An environmental assessment is to be undertaken prior to development of any areas identified as being of potential environmental interest.

If the responsible authority is satisfied that an application requirement is not relevant to the assessment of an application, the responsible authority may waive any of the above requirements.

3.3

Referral


--/--/----

Native Vegetation
Any permit application for land containing native vegetation identified to be retained in the Lara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, or land that is identified within the Native Vegetation Precinct Plan as an offset site must be referred to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries.

High Pressure Gas Pipeline
Any permit application for the use, development or subdivision of land within the high pressure gas pipeline measurement length (as defined in AS2885) as shown in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan must be referred to the Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005.

Flood Mitigation
Any permit application for land that is shown to be subject to flooding in a 1 in 100 year event as detailed on Plan 19 (Flood Boundary for Existing Conditions Q100) in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan must be referred to the relevant Catchment Management Authority.

4.0

Conditions and requirements for permits


--/--/----

Any permit must contain conditions and requirements as appropriate which give effect to any relevant part of the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan.

4.1

Conditions for subdivision or building and works permits where land is required for community facilities, public open space, road widening and drainage


--/--/----

Public open space and community facilities
Land identified as public open space or community facilities in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan and specified on Plan 5 - Future Urban Structure, and in Table 1 -Summary Land Use Budget in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan, or in any approved Masterplan as required under clause 2.4 and 2.5 of this schedule, or any applicable Development Contributions Plan, must be transferred to or vested in Council at no cost to Council unless funded by the applicable Development Contributions Plan.

Public open space must be provided in accordance with Plan 5 - Future Urban Structure and Table 1 - Summary Land Use Budget in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan, or in any approved Masterplan as required under clause 2.4 and 2.5 of this schedule, prior to the issue of a Statement of Compliance (or as otherwise agreed with the responsible authority). These contributions are subject to an equalisation for unencumbered open space.

Any public open space provided at the applicants request in addition to that reflected in Plan 5 - Future Urban Structure and Table 1 - Summary Land Use Budget in the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan, or in any approved Masterplan as required under clause 2.4 and 2.5 of this schedule, must be transferred to or vested in Council at no cost to Council and is not subject to compensation.

Road widening
Land required for road widening including right of way flaring for the ultimate design of any intersection with an existing or proposed arterial road must be referred to or vested in Council or VicRoads at no cost to the acquiring agency unless funded by an applicable Development Contributions Plan.

Drainage
Individual stages of development must demonstrate compliance with the staged delivery of ultimate drainage infrastructure in accordance with Plan 19 of the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan.

Requirements for Native Vegetation
Prior to issuing statement of compliance, or before the vegetation removal starts for Very High Conservation Significance Vegetation, the applicant must prepare and submit a Vegetation Offset Management Plan to the satisfaction of the Department of Environment and Primary Industries for approval by the responsible authority. When approved, the plan will form part of this permit.

4.2

Conditions for subdivision permits that allow for the creation of a lot of less than 300 square metres


--/--/----

Conditions for subdivision permits that allow for the creation of a lot of less than 300 square metres

Any permit for subdivision that allows the creation of a lot less than 300 square metres must contain the following conditions:

  • The Small Lot Building Code forming part of the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan applies to the subdivision of land under this permit and the application of the Small Lot Building Code must be shown on any endorsed plans which are part of this planning permit.

  • Before a plan is certified for a subdivision (or the relevant stage of a subdivision) where a building envelope is proposed, the plans endorsed under this permit must show a building envelope for each lot with an area less than 300 square metres that is in accordance with the Small Lot Building Code forming part of the Armstrong Creek West Precinct Structure Plan to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

Where a building envelope plan is proposed and/or required, any permit for subdivision must contain the following conditions:

  • The building envelopes must be applied as a restriction on the Plan of Subdivision or through an agreement under section 173 of the Act that is registered on the title to the land. The restriction or agreement must provide for:

    • The building envelope plan to apply to each relevant lot;

    • All buildings being constructed in accordance with the building envelope on the relevant lot;

    • The construction of a building outside the building envelope only with the written consent of the Responsible Authority;

    • A building envelope to cease to apply to any building on the lot affected by the envelope after the issue of a Certificate of Occupancy for the whole of a dwelling and any garage or carport on the land.

4.3

Conditions and requirements for all permits


--/--/----

Environmental Audit
If the environmental site assessment recommends an environmental audit of all or part of the land, or if required by the responsible authority, then prior to the commencement of any use, for a sensitive purpose or prior to any buildings or works or the certification of a subdivision, whichever is earlier, the following must be provided to the responsible authority:

either:

  • A certificate of environmental audit issued for the relevant land in accordance with Part 1XD of the Environmental Protection Act 1970,

or

  • A statement by an environmental auditor appointed under the Environment Protection Act 1970, in accordance with Part 1XD of that Act that the environmental conditions of the relevant land are suitable for a sensitive use (with or without conditions on the use of the site);

If a statement by an environmental auditor is provided rather than a certificate of environmental audit and the statement indicates that the environmental conditions of the relevant land are suitable for a sensitive use subject to conditions, the owner of the land must enter into an agreement with the responsible authority under Section 173 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 before any development commences on the relevant land to provide for;

  • ongoing compliance with all conditions in the Statement by the Environmental Auditor; and

  • the responsible authority's reasonable legal costs and expenses of drafting / reviewing and registering the agreement to be borne by the owner of the relevant land.

4.4

Conditions and requirements for all permits for subdivision of land within the high-pressure gas pipeline measurement length (as defined in AS2885)


--/--/----

The owner of the land must enter into an agreement with the responsible authority under Section 173 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 before any development commences on the relevant land to provide for:

  • Disclosure on all land titles of the high-pressure gas pipeline easement and its pipeline measurement length.

  • Information to alert potential property purchasers to the site’s proximity to the high-pressure gas pipeline easement and its pipeline measurement length.

  • The responsible authority’s reasonable legal costs and expenses of drafting, reviewing and registering the agreement and of assessing, negotiating and recording any proposed amendment to the agreement, to be borne by the owner of the relevant land.

The wording of any agreement must be in a form acceptable to the Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005.

5.0

Advertising signs


--/--/----

  • The advertising category is the category which is applicable for the relevant applied zone.

Despite the provisions of Clause 52.05, a permit may be granted to display an advertising sign that promotes the sale of land or dwellings, whether or not the advertising sign is located on the land for sale.

6.0

Decision guidelines

--/--/----

Before deciding on an application to subdivide, use and/or develop land the responsible authority must consider, as appropriate:

  • Whether the application is consistent with theLara Structure Plan, City of Greater Geelong, 2011.

  • Whether the application is consistent with the incorporatedLara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, September 2013.

  • Whether the application is consistent with the incorporatedLara West Precinct Development Contributions Plan, September 2013.

  • Whether the application is consistent with the incorporatedLara West Precinct Structure Plan, September 2013 including any approved Urban Design Frameworks.

  • For any application within the gas pipeline easement and its pipeline measurement length (as defined in AS2885), as shown on Map 1: any risks associated with the operation of the high pressure gas pipeline.

7.0

References

--/--/----

Lara West Precinct Structure Plan, September 2013

Lara Lakes Heritage Due Dilligence Study and Implications for Development (October, 2011) prepared by Andrew Long and Associates Pty Ltd

Lara West Flora and Fauna Assesment (April, 2012) prepared by Brett Lane and Associated Pty Ltd

Lara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan (September 2013) prepared by Brett Lane and Associated Pty Ltd

Lara West Surface Water Management Strategy (June, 2012) prepared by Neil M Craigie Pty Ltd

Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment (July, 2011) prepared by SMEC Pty Ltd

Lara West Infrastruture Services Report (September, 2012) prepared by SMEC Urban Pty Ltd

Small Lot Housing Code Standards, GAA, August 2011



SCHEDULE 5 TO THE DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTIONS PLAN OVERLAY

--/--/20--

C---

Shown on the planning scheme map as DCPO5

LARA WEST DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTIONS PLAN

1.0

Area covered by this development contributions plan

--/--/20--

C---

This Development Contributions Plan (DCP) applies to the Lara West DCP Main Catchment Area. This area is shown in the Lara West DCP and partially as DCPO5 in the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme maps.

The Main Catchment Area and individual Charge Areas are shown below.
Lara West DCP - Charge Areas Map

2.0 Summary of costs

--/--/20--

C---

Item

Total cost $

Time of provision

Actual cost attributable to development $

Proportion of cost attributable to development %

 

Land Acquisition

$1,215,700

Refer to DCP

$1,215,700

100%

 

Roads and intersections

$8,208,800

Refer to DCP

$8,208,800

100%

 

Trails

$291,200

Refer to DCP

$291,200

100%

 

Open Space

$9,842,090

Refer to DCP

$6,329,449

64%

 

Community - DIL

$15,635,297

Refer to DCP

$15,635,297

100%

 

Community – CIL

$4,026,990

Refer to DCP

$4,026,990

100%

 

Strategic Planning and DCP

$1,318,000

Refer to DCP

$1,318,000

100%

 

TOTAL

$40,538,077

 

$37,025,436

91%

  Note: Contributions are listed in July 2012 values. Under the DCP the contributions are to be adjusted following annual indexation. These figures exclude GST.
3.0

Demand Units

--/--/20--

C---

The Development Contributions Plan apportions cost based on demand units. In this DCP one demand unit is equal to one hectare of net developable land within the Lara West DCP Main Catchment Area (for the Development Infrastructure Levy), and one demand unit is equal to one dwelling within the Main Catchment Area (for the Community Infrastructure Levy).

 

Charge Area

Demand Units (Development Infrastructure Levy)

Demand Units (Community Infrastructure Levy)

 

Charge Area A

195.19

3,020

 

Charge Area B

15.33

230

 

Charge Area C

48.37

726

 

Charge Area D

37.22

558

 

Charge Area E

7.84

0

 

TOTAL

303.95

4,534

4.0 Summary of contributions

--/--/20--

C---

Charge Area

DIL per ha

CIL per dwelling

 

Charge Area A

$125,542.63

$888.12

 

Charge Area B

$83,941.92

$888.12

 

Charge Area C

$81,263.50

$888.12

 

Charge Area D

$80,421.16

$888.12

 

Charge Area E

$36,110.67

None specified

 

Note: Contributions are listed in July 2012 values. Under the DCP the contributions are to be adjusted following annual indexation. These figures exclude GST.

The Development Contribution for each demand unit must be adjusted as follows:

  • In relation to the costs associated with all infrastructure items other than land, the cost must be adjusted and the contribution amounts recalculated according to the following method:

    • The capital costs of each infrastructure item must be adjusted by reference to theProducer Price Indexes Australia, Victoria (Table 15 Selected Output of Division E - Construction industry, Building Construction Victoria (for buildings) and Road and Bridge Construction Victoria (for roads, bridges, trails, etc) published by the ABS (Series 6427.0) or similar index.

      • The revised infrastructure costs and the adjustment of the contributions must be calculated as at 1 July in each year.

    • In relation to the cost of land required under the DCP, the land value must be adjusted by adopting a revised land value for each parcel of land to be acquired based on the same valuation principles used for the original valuations.

    • The revised land value and the adjustment of the contributions must be calculated as of 1 July in each year.

    • Within 14 days of the adjustments being made, the Responsible Authority must publish a notice of the amended contributions in a newspaper circulating in the municipality.

 5.0 Land or development excluded from development contributions plan

--/--/20--

C---

The Development Contributions Plan applies to all land in the Lara West Main Catchment Area for a period of 20 years.

Note: This schedule sets out a summary of the costs and contributions prescribed in the development contributions plan. Refer to the incorporated development contributions plan for full details



21.13 LARA

05/04/2012

C225

Key issues and influences

11/08/2011

Lara is a township designated for urban growth and is strategically located between Geelong and Melbourne with excellent road, rail, seaport and airport links.

The rural landscape setting is important to the character of the town.

Key environmental, cultural and landscape features need to be protected and managed.

The Hovells and Serindip Creek systems have a propensity to flood and in low lying areas there is a lack of overland flood conveyance and grade for drainage systems putting constraints on development in these areas.

Retail and commercial expansion is required to meet the needs of local residents and to reduce the high level of escape expenditure.

There is a strong reliance on the private motor car as a form of transport and active and public transport infrastructure and services need to be improved.

The Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct, Avalon Airport and nearby land provide significant opportunities for employment and economic growth.

21.13-2 Objectives

05/04/2012

C225

  • To maintain a compact urban form and provide for sustainable communities.

  • To maintain and enhance the rural characteristics of Lara.

  • To ensure an adequate supply of appropriately zoned and located residential and commercial land.

  • To protect the rural landscape setting of the township particularly to the north overlooking the You Yangs.

  • To consolidate retail and commercial activities at the existing Lara town centre.

  • To ensure that any expansion of the Lara Town Centre integrates with the existing retail, commercial and community facilities in the Town Centre.

  • To provide community and recreation services and infrastructure to meet the needs of the local and surrounding population.

  • To protect and enhance key environmental, cultural and landscape features.

  • To protect flood prone areas and areas that can not be readily drained from urban encroachment.

  • To provide an efficient and integrated movement network for public transport, vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian movements.

  • To protect Avalon Airport, Heales Road Industrial Estate and the potential intermodal transport facility from urban encroachment and sensitive uses.

Strategies

  • Contain urban development within the defined settlement boundary in accordance with the Structure Plan map included in this clause.

  • Support the development of areas identified for rezoning to Residential 1 and Low Density Residential in accordance with the Structure Plan map included in this clause.

  • Support the rezoning of ‘future residential’ areas when a review of lot supply indicates rezoning is necessary to continue to achieve at least 15 years lot supply taking into consideration any infill opportunities that will not be realised in the short term.

  • Ensure the sequential development of ‘future residential’ area west of O’Hallorans Road proceeds from east to west.

  • Ensure new development incorporates sustainability principles including environmentally sustainable design, energy efficiency, connectivity and water sensitive urban design.

  • Ensure new subdivision developments on Residential 1 zoned land incorporates urban design treatments that reinforce the rural characteristics of the town.

  • Limit Rural Living to existing zoned land within Lara.

  • Locate and integrate future education, community and recreation facilities to enhance their accessibility and to maximise joint use wherever possible.

  • Provide additional bicycle and pedestrian opportunities and connections throughout the township including new footpaths and bicycle lanes.

  • Support the implementation of the principles and objectives contained in the Lara Town Centre Urban Design Framework, including expanding the town centre to provide additional retail and commercial land including a full-line supermarket and community and transport infrastructure.

  • Consider alternative town centre layout options provided that all the aims and strategies of the Lara Town Centre Urban Design Framework are satisfied.

  • Limit the Patullos Road shopping strip to the existing Business 1 zoned land.

  • Limit industrial uses within the township to land currently zoned for industrial purposes.

  • Ensure that land use and development outside the settlement boundary does not prejudice the long term strategic directions identified in the Structure Plan map included in the clause including:

    • Retention of the rural landscape setting including views to the You Yangs;

    • Protection of agricultural land, particularly to the north of Lara and aquaculture or intensive agricultural production activities adjacent and complementary to Avalon Airport;

    • Protection of buffers to the Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct;

    • Protection of opportunities for a potential intermodal transport facility

    • Protection of the current and future operations and development of Avalon Airport including associated or compatible uses.

21.13-3 Implementation

--/--/2013

C246

These strategies will be implemented by:

Applying Zones and Overlays

Apply the Residential 1 and Low Density Residential zones to identified residential infill areas with appropriate Development Plan Overlay and Development Contribution Plan Overlay controls (or similar mechanisms).

Ensure future development for subdivision and use of land affected by the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan is generally consistent with the outcomes identified in this plan.

Apply the Urban Floodway Zone, Land Subject to Inundation Overlay and the Special Building Overlay to identified areas as a matter of urgency.

Apply appropriate zone/s required to facilitate commercial, retail and community development in the Lara town centre.

Further Work

Carry out the following further flooding and drainage work for Lara:

  • update flood mapping data;

  • develop a drainage infrastructure plan for the Lara area;

  • introduce, as a matter of urgency, appropriate flood or inundation overlay controls in the planning scheme; and

  • include drainage infrastructure in Developer Contributions Plans for future developments.

Support the preparation of an Avalon Airport Environs Study to consider the application of an Airport Environs Overlay.

Support the preparation of an environmental assessment of land within the vicinity of Avalon Airport to determine opportunities and constraints.

Support the detailed assessment of the proposed intermodal transport facility in the context of employment, road, rail and freight planning for this part of Victoria.

 

References

Lara Structure Plan, City of Greater Geelong, April 2011.

Lara Structure Plan Retail Development Issues, Tim Nott Retail Analysis + Strategy, March 2009

Lara Town Centre Urban Design Framework, David Lock Associates, March 2006.

Lara West Precinct Structure Plan, SMEC Urban, September 2013

21.13-4 Lara Structure Plan map

11/08/2011

C198

Lara Structure Plan map


12/09/2013

C243

Proposed C246

SCHEDULE TO CLAUSE 52.16
1.0

Native vegetation precinct plan

12/09/2013

C243

Proposed C246

Name of plan

 

Armstrong Creek East Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, May 2010

 

Armstrong Creek North East Industrial Precinct Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, May 2010

 

Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct, March 2013

 

Lara West Growth Area Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, September 2013

 

SCHEDULE TO CLAUSE 61.03

23/05/2013

C275

Proposed C246

Maps comprising part of this scheme:
  • 1, 1VPO, 1SLO, 1WMO

  • 2, 2ESO, 2VPO, 2SLO, 2HO, 2WMO

  • 3, 3ESO, 3VPO, 3HO, 3LSIO-FO, 3PAO

  • 4, 4ESO, 4HO, 4PAO

  • 5, 5ESO, 5VPO, 5SLO, 5HO, 5WMO

  • 6, 6ESO, 6VPO, 6SLO, 6HO, 6LSIO-FO

  • 7, 7ESO, 7VPO, 7SLO, 7HO, 7LSIO-FO, 7PAO, 7WMO

  • 8, 8ESO, 8SLO, 8HO, 8LSIO-FO, 8PAO, 8WMO

  • 9, 9ESO, 9HO, 9LSIO-FO

  • 10, 10ESO, 10HO, 10LSIO-FO

  • 11, 11ESO, 11LSIO-FO, 11DCPO5

  • 12, 12ESO, 12SLO, 12LSIO-FO, 12VPO, 12WMO, 12DCPO5

  • 13, 13ESO, 13SLO, 13HO, 13VPO, 13WMO

  • 14, 14ESO, 14VPO, 14LSIO-FO

  • 15, 15ESO, 15PAO, 15VPO, 15HO, 15LSIO-FO

  • 16, 16ESO, 16LSIO-FO

  • 17, 17ESO, 17HO, 17DDO, 17LSIO-FO, 17VPO, 17DCPO5

  • 18, 18ESO, 18DDO, 18DPO, 18LSIO-FO, 18PAO, 18EAO, 18SBO, 18DCPO5

  • 19, 19ESO, 19VPO, 19HO, 19LSIO-FO, 19DDO

  • 20, 20ESO, 20VPO, 20DPO, 20LSIO-FO, 20DDO

  • 21, 21ESO, 21DPO, 21DDO, 21LSIO-FO

  • 22, 22ESO, 22PAO, 22LSIO-FO

  • 23, 23ESO, 23LSIO-FO

  • 24, 24ESO, 24HO, 24LSIO-FO

  • 25, 25ESO, 25DPO, 25LSIO-FO, 25PAO, 25EAO, 25HO, 25DDO14, 25DDO, 25SBO

  • 26, 26ESO, 26HO, 26SBO, 26PAO, 26EAO, 26DDO, 26RO

  • 27, 27ESO, 27VPO, 27HO, 27LSIO-FO, 27EAO

  • 28, 28ESO, 28DPO, 28DDO

  • 29, 29ESO, 29DPO, 29DDO, 29LSIO-FO

  • 30

  • 31, 31ESO, 31HO, 31DPO, 31LSIO-FO, 31PAO, 31EAO

  • 32, 32ESO, 32HO, 32PAO, 32DDO14, 32SBO

  • 33, 33HO, 33DDO14, 33DPO, 33DDO, 33SBO, 33EAO

  • 34, 34ESO, 34HO, 34DDO

  • 35, 35DDO

  • 36, 36ESO, 36HO, 36DPO, 36LSIO-FO, 36PAO, 36EAO, 36DDO14, 36SBO

  • 37, 37HO, 37DDO, 37EAO, 37DDO14, 37DPO, 37LSIO-FO, 37SBO

  • 38, 38HO, 38EAO, 38DDO, 38SBO

  • 39

  • 40, 40ESO, 40HO, 40DDO

  • 41, 41HO, 41DDO14, 41SLO

  • 42, 42ESO, 42HO, 42PAO, 42DDO14, 42DDO, 42SLO

  • 43, 43ESO, 43VPO, 43HO, 43EAO, 43DDO14, 43DPO, 43DDO, 43SLO

  • 44, 44VPO, 44HO, 44DDO14, 44DDO

  • 45

  • 46, 46LSIO-FO, 46HO

  • 47, 47SLO, 47HO, 47DDO, 47LSIO-FO, 47PAO, 47EAO, 47DDO14, 47DPO, 47RXO

  • 48, 48HO, 48DDO, 48DPO, 48LSIO-FO, 48EAO, 48DDO14

  • 49, 49SLO, 49HO, 49DDO, 49LSIO-FO, 49PAO, 49DDO14, 49EAO, 49RXO, 49SBO

  • 50, 50HO, 50DDO,50EAO, 50LSIO-FO, 50SBO

  • 51, 51ESO, 51HO, 51DDO

  • 52, 52HO, 52LSIO-FO, 52PAO, 52DDO14, 52DDO, 52DPO

  • 53, 53ESO, 53HO, 53LSIO-FO, 53PAO, 53DDO14, 53DDO

  • 54, 54ESO, 54HO, 54LSIO-FO, 54PAO, 54DDO, 54EAO

  • 55, 55HO, 55LSIO-FO, 55DDO, 55SBO

  • 56, 56ESO, 56HO, 56DDO, 56LSIO-FO, 56SBO

  • 57, 57VPO, 57HO, 57DPO, 57DDO14, 57DDO

  • 58, 58VPO, 58HO, 58DDO

  • 59, 59VPO, 59HO, 59PAO, 59DDO14, 59DDO, 59DPO, 59DCPO

  • 60, 60HO, 60PAO, 60DDO14, 60SLO

  • 61, 61VPO, 61SLO

  • 62, 62ESO, 62VPO, 62HO, 62DDO14, 62DDO, 62DPO, 62SLO

  • 63, 63DDO

  • 64, 64VPO, 64SLO, 64PAO

  • 65, 65VPO, 65SLO, 65HO, 65DDO, 65DPO, 65PAO, 65DDO14, 65ESO, 65DCPO

  • 66, 66VPO, 66HO, 66DPO, 66LSIO-FO, 66PAO, 66DDO14, 66ESO, 66DDO, 66DCPO

  • 67, 67VPO, 67HO, 67LSIO-FO, 67PAO, 67ESO, 67SBO, 67DDO, 67DCPO

  • 68, 68ESO, 68HO, 68LSIO-FO, 68SLO

  • 69, 69ESO, 69HO, 69LSIO-FO, 69DDO14, 69DPO, 69SLO

  • 70, 70VPO, 70HO, 70LSIO-FO, 70PAO, 70SLO

  • 71, 71ESO, 71VPO, 71HO, 71PAO, 71DPO, 71SLO

  • 72, 72ESO, 72VPO, 72HO, 72SLO

  • 73, 73ESO, 73VPO, 73SLO

  • 74, 74ESO, 74DDO14, 74SLO

  • 75, 75VPO

  • 76, 76VPO, 76PAO

  • 77, 77VPO, 77HO, 77LSIO-FO, 77ESO, 77DCPO

  • 78, 78ESO, 78VPO, 78LSIO-FO, 78PAO, 78HO, 78DCPO

  • 79, 79ESO, 79VPO, 79LSIO-FO, 79PAO, 79HO, 79SLO

  • 80, 80ESO, 80LSIO-FO, 80SBO, 80PAO, 80HO, 80SLO

  • 81, 81ESO, 81VPO, 81SLO, 81HO, 81DDO, 81LSIO-FO, 81SBO, 81PAO, 81DDO14, 81WMO

  • 82, 82ESO, 82VPO, 82SLO, 82HO, 82DDO, 82DPO, 82LSIO-FO, 82PAO 82DDO14, 82WMO

  • 83, 83ESO, 83VPO, 83HO, 83DDO, 83LSIO-FO, 83PAO, 83DDO14, 83WMO, 83DPO, 83SLO

  • 84, 84ESO, 84VPO, 84SLO

  • 85, 85ESO, 85WMO, 85DDO

  • 86, 86ESO, 86HO, 86LSIO-FO, 86WMO, 86DDO

  • 87, 87ESO, 87HO, 87SLO, 87SBO

  • 88, 88ESO, 88HO, 88LSIO-FO, 88DDO, 88SBO

  • 89, 89ESO, 89DDO14, 89WMO, 89SLO

  SCHEDULE TO CLAUSE 66.04

07/03/2013
C240
Proposed C246

Referral of permit applications under local provisions
 

Clause

Kind of application

Referral authority

 

Clause 5.0 of Schedule 3 to 42.01 (ESO)

An application required under Schedule 3 to Clause 42.01.

Secretary to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries

 

Clause 5.0 of Schedule 4 to 42.01 (ESO)

An application required under Schedule 4 to Clause 42.01.

Secretary to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries

 

Clause 5.0 of Schedule 3 to 37.07 (UGZ)

An application for the removal of ‘retained vegetation’ identified in the Armstrong Creek West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, November 2012

Secretary to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries

 

Clause 5.0 of Schedule 3 to 37.07 (UGZ)

An application on land shown to be subject to flooding in a 1 in 100 year event as detailed in Plan 19 in the Armstrong Creek West Precinct Structure Plan, September 2012

Catchment Management Authority

 

Clause 3.0 of Schedule 4 to 37.07 (UGZ)

Any permit application for land containing native vegetation identified to be retained in the Lara West Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, or land that is identified within the NVPP as an offset site.

Secretary to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries

 

Clause 3.0 of Schedule 4 to 37.07 (UGZ)

Any permit application for the use, development or subdivision of land within the high pressure gas pipeline measurement length (as defined in AS2855) as shown in the incorporated Lara West Precinct Structure Plan.

Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005

 

Clause 3.0 of Schedule 4 to 37.07 (UGZ)

Any permit application for land that is shown to be subject to flooding in a 1 in 100 year event as detailed on Plan 19 (Flood Boundary for Existing Conditions Q100) in the incorporated Lara West Precinct Structure Plan.

Catchment Management Authority

  SCHEDULE TO CLAUSE 81.01
12/09/2013
C240
Proposed C246

Referral of permit applications under local provisions
 

Name of document

Introduced by:

 

14 Shepherd Court, North Geelong, Cotton On Office Redevelopment, July 2011

C257

 

Advertising Sign Guidelines, City of Greater Geelong, November 1997.

NPS1

 

Armstrong Creek East Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, May 2010

C206

 

Armstrong Creek East Precinct Structure Plan, May 2010 Amended November 2011.

C214

 

Armstrong Creek East Precinct Development Contributions Plan, Version 4.1 Alternate Version November 2011.

C214

 

Armstrong Creek North East Industrial Precinct Development Contributions Plan, May 2010.

C207

 

Armstrong Creek North East Industrial Precinct Growling Grass Frog Conservation Management Plan, May 2010.

C207

 

Armstrong Creek North East Industrial Precinct Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, May 2010.

C207

 

Armstrong Creek North East Industrial Precinct, Precinct Structure Plan, May 2010.

C207

 

Armstrong Creek Urban Growth Plan Framework Plan, November 2008, Updated September 2012

C240

 

Armstrong Creek West Precinct Development Contributions Plan, February 2013

C240

 

Armstrong Creek West Precinct Development Contributions Plan, February 2013

C240

 

Armstrong Creek West Precinct Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, November 2012

C240

 

Armstrong Creek West Precinct Structure Plan, September 2012

C240

 

Australian Standard AS 2021-1994, Acoustics - Aircraft Noise Intrusion - Building Siting and Construction. Standards Association of Australia 1994.

NPS1

 

Environmental Weeds, City of Greater Geelong, September 2008

C129(Part 1)

 

Geelong City Urban Conservation Study Vol. 1 Restoration and Infill Guidelines, Commercial and Civic Buildings, Graeme Butler for the City of Geelong, 1993

C258

 

Geelong Library and Heritage Centre Redevelopment, March 2013

C287

 

Geelong Ring Road – Section 4C Incorporated Document, June 2010.

C232

 

Geelong TAC Office Development, October 2006.

C142

 

Heritage and Design Guidelines, City of Greater Geelong, 1997.

NPS1

 

Key Development and Increased Housing Diversity Areas, July 2009, updated 2012.

C254

 

Jetty Road Urban Growth Area Development Contributions Plan, September 2011

C230

 

Lara West Precinct Structure Plan, September 2013

C246

 

Lara West Growth Area Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, September 2013

C246

 

Lara West Development Contributions Plan, September, 2013

C246

 

Melbourne Geelong Interconnection Project, June 2010.

C229

 

Native Vegetation Precinct Plan, Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct, March 2013

C243

 

Newtown Heritage Study Review Report, Volume 3, City of Greater Geelong, 2008

C191

 

New Station Estate Restructure Plan, July 2010

C187

 

Rail Infrastructure Projects (comprising the Rail Gauge Standardisation Project, the Regional Fast Rail Project and the Fibre Optic Project), December 2002.

VC17

 

Rail Upgrades at Geelong Port Project, May 2010.

C211

 

Rippleside Comprehensive Development Plan, February 2000.

C2

 

Rippleside Urban Design Guidelines, June 2000.

C2

 

Thirteenth Beach Golf Resort Barwon Heads, Barwon Heads Comprehensive Development Plan, Land Design Partnership, Anthony Cashmore & Associates and the Planning Group, May 2001 amended September 2006.

C54

 

Waterfront Geelong Design and Development Code, Keys Young, July 1996

NPS1

 

West Fyans-Fyans Street Precinct Structure Plan, June 2009

C205




Appendix 7 - C246 Panel Report: Chapter 6

6 The high-pressure gas pipeline

6.1 What is the issue?

The land is traversed by a high-pressure gas pipeline owned and operated by APA Gasnet Australia (Operations) Pty Ltd. The 500 mm pipeline operates at 10,200 kPag and is one of three main natural gas pipelines supplying Melbourne. It is within a 20 metre wide easement and is underground with a cover of at least 1.2 metres. APA intends to install additional pipes within the easement (Submission 6).

The protection of the pipeline and the easement and the encroachment of more intense land uses and development within its vicinity under the proposed LWPSP is a matter that needs careful consideration.


6.2 Policy context of the issue

State Policy deals specifically with gas pipelines at Clause 19.03-6 of the planning scheme. Its aim is to plan for the development of pipelines subject to the Pipelines Act 2005 to ensure that gas is safely delivered at minimal risk to people, other critical infrastructure and the environment.

Strategies to achieve this are:


6.3 Background

The significance of the pipeline emerged late in the LWPSP and Amendment C246 process. There is no reference to it Clause 21.13 of the planning scheme, which deals with planning for Lara and includes the Lara Structure Plan map. It does not appear to have been considered by the Panel that reported on Amendments C73 and C198 in 2010 (Document 14) and recommended in favour of the structure plan. It is not included in the Lara Structure Plan report adopted by Council in 2011 (Document 11).

In March 2012 the Council alerted the proponent’s planners and engineers (SMEC Urban) to the existence of the pipeline and recommended contact with APA (Document 5). SMEC Urban’s infrastructure services report of September 2012 referred to the pipeline and noted that it “must be given due weight when considering subdivision design and layout alternatives for the overall development site” Similar words were used in the exhibited LWPSP. Clause 4.7.3 of the exhibited plan, proposed to be included as a reference document under the Schedule to the UGZ, also refers to a requirement that subdivision permits include a condition requiring the installation of infrastructure to the satisfaction of APA and a requirement that development must retain and protect the existing easement.

In response to the exhibited amendment APA submitted that the major pipeline investments it was planning could be put at risk and that the encroachment of urban uses could impose operational constraints on the pipeline and “raise uncertainty about its long term land use role” (Submission 6). APA also said:

High pressure gas transmission lines have potential to cause catastrophic damage in the case of explosion. Gas lines of this nature are maintained and constantly monitored to ensure their integrity. The likelihood of explosion is extremely remote. Accordingly, there is no current requirement to provide additional buffers to safeguard against this unlikely outcome. APA have recommended, however that potential risks be considered in land use planning. It has been suggested that uses such as schools and hospitals be sited away from pipelines if possible.

APA advises that Energy Safe Victoria and Department of Primary Industries are reviewing the risks associated with development within the heat flux zones around transmission pipelines.

The DPI (Submission 50) advised that it was seeking ESV’s advice as to whether the LWPSP provided sufficiently for human safety in the siting of residential areas in proximity to the pipeline.

Following the APA submission there were discussions between the Council, proponent and APA and a “Safety Management Workshop” including representatives of APA, Council, SMEC Urban and the proponent was held on 7 March 2013 as part of the preparation of a Safety Management Study by APA.

On 26 March 2013 the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) wrote to Council advising that it had received information in relation to the pipeline from Energy Safe Victoria but ESV was not yet satisfied that safety standards would be met and in particular, that the “as low as reasonably practicable” (ALARP) principle would be met in respect of risk. DPI further advised that there were ongoing discussions between APA and the proponent about managing risks that would result from the proposed land use changes. It indicated that once the ALARP principle has been demonstrated, ESV and DPI “will be in a position to support” Amendment C246.

At the Directions Hearing on 28 March 2013 a draft revised LWPSP map dated 28 February 2013 and labelled “for discussion” was tabled by Mr Tobin indicating a 320 m buffer either side of the gas pipeline.

Accordingly the Panel directed the proponent to circulate the outcome of meetings with Energy Safe Victoria and Department of Primary Industries regarding satisfying the ALARP principle and its proposed “Hearing Version” of the LWPSP by close of business on 12 April 2013.

In response Mr Tobin advised by letter dated 12 April that APA had met with ESV on 9 April and that ESV requested further revision of APA’s draft Safety Management Study (SMS). The proponent believed that the likely final outcome of the SMS would confirm a requirement for a 320 metre “Gas Pipeline Heat Flux Zone” rather than a reduced zone as was expected to be the case at the time of the Directions Hearing. APA and ESV would not support residential use (at a density higher than 30 dwellings per hectare) school, employment or activity centre uses within this zone. A new draft LWPSP map was provided with amendments accommodating a 320 metre Heat Flux Zone (“C246 Hearing Version”, being Revision S dated 12 April 2013).

On 12 April 2013, in response to the Panel’s directions, the Council provided a revised draft of Schedule 4 to the UGZ and draft revisions to the LWPSP report.

In response to the Panel’s Directions ESV advised the Panel on 17 April that APA’s advice was that the area to which the ALARP principle should be applied is 550 m from the pipeline, that it had not yet received APA’s final report and that “any presumption of likelihood of ESV and DPI support for the Amendment is inappropriate”.

APA provided a copy of its final Safety Management Study Report to ESV and the Panel on 26 April 2013. APA did not choose to be heard or call evidence in support of its written submissions.


6.4 Evidence and submissions

In its letter to the Panel of 26 April enclosing its Safety Management Study Report, APA said it had assessed the exhibited LWPSP and “expresses the need to reduce risk to the public to an acceptable level by locating medium density (greater than 30 dwellings per hectare) and Sensitive land uses preferably 554m away from the existing pipeline and not within 324m of the pipeline”.

APA’s report says that a Safety Management Study (SMS) was carried out in accordance with Australian Standard AS 2885.1-2012. This standard requires that the current pipeline safety management study for each pipeline be updated for any changes in the pipeline’s operating environment. This was done by considering threats resulting from the land use and development changes proposed under the LWPSP. Generic threats, such as corrosion, are covered by the most recent study performed on the entire pipeline and “did not present a significant risk at this location”.

APA says that the pipeline’s design and construction is on the basis that the subject area has a Residential (T1) rating in accordance with AS 2885.1-2012. That is, the land within the “measurement length” (see below) of the pipeline:

… is developed for community living. Residential applies where multiple dwellings exist in proximity to each other and dwellings are served by common public utilities. Residential includes areas of land with public infrastructure serving the residential use; roads, railways, recreational areas, camping grounds/caravan parks, suburban parks, small strip shopping centres. Residential land use may include isolated higher density areas provided they are not more than 10% of the land use. Land used for other purposes but with similar population density shall be assigned Residential location class.

High Density (T2) is a higher rating location classification defined by AS 2885.1-2012 as:

Land that is developed for high density community use. High Density applies where multi storey development predominates or where large numbers of people congregate in the normal use of the area. High density includes areas of public infrastructure serving the high density use; roads, railways, major sporting and cultural facilities and land use areas of major commercial developments; cities, town centres, shopping malls, hotels and motels.

NOTE: In residential and high density areas the societal risk associated with loss of containment is a dominant consideration.

Within these primary classifications, a location can also be classified as a “Sensitive use (S)” location under AS 2885.1-2012 leading to requirements additional to those of the primary classification. The Standard defines this classification as:

The sensitive use location class identifies land where the consequences of a failure may be increased because it is developed for use by sectors of the community who may be unable to protect themselves from the consequences of a pipeline failure. Sensitive uses are defined in some jurisdictions, but include schools, hospitals, aged care facilities and prisons. Sensitive use location class shall be assigned to any portion of pipeline where there is a sensitive development within a measurement length. It shall also include locations of high environmental sensitivity to pipeline failure.

The “measurement length” is the distance from the pipeline of relevant land uses and is based on the radius of the 4.7 kW/m2 heat radiation contour calculated under AS 2885.1-2012 for “full bore rupture” of the pipe leading to ignition of the escaping gas. The SMS puts this distance as up to 554 m from the pipeline. The effect of exposure to such heat will cause pain in 15 to 20 seconds and injury after 30 seconds exposure (at least second degree burns will occur).

The SMS also refers to the heat radiation contour of 12.6 kW/m2 as bringing a significant chance of fatality for extended exposure and high chance of injury. It puts this distance as up to 324 m from the pipeline.

The SMS included an “SMS Action Item List” based on the hazards identified exhibited plan relating to detailed design and construction management.

Mr Radojkovic of the Department of Primary Industries drew the Panel’s attention to the responsibility of the Minister for Energy and Resources in administering the Pipelines Act 2005. The Minister is a prescribed Minister under regulation 8 of the Planning and Environment Regulations, 2005. As such he may require that an amendment not be approved by the Minister for Planning under Section 35(4) of the Planning and Environment Act, 1987 if he is of the opinion that the amendment may unreasonably prejudice the use of a pipeline permitted under the Pipelines Act.

In forming its recommendation to its Minister, DPI seeks the advice of Energy Safe Victoria. Mr Cronin of ESV drew the Panel’s attention to the provisions of the Pipelines Act 2005, which requires a licensee (APA in this instance) to construct and operate pipelines in accordance with AS 2885 Parts 1, 2 and 3. In relation to land use planning he cited Section 4.7.4 of AS 2885.1-2012:

Where there are changes in land use planning (or land use) along the route of existing pipelines to permit Residential, High Density, Industrial, or Sensitive development or Heavy Industrial development in areas where these uses were previously prohibited, a safety assessment shall be undertaken and additional control measures implemented until it is demonstrated that the risk from a loss of containment involving rupture is ALARP.

The assessment is to include consideration of measures including reduction of pipeline pressure, upgrading of pipe to “no rupture”, pipeline relocation, modification of the land use to separate people from the pipeline and physical and procedural protection measures that are effective in controlling threats capable of causing rupture of the pipeline.

Mr Cronin pointed out that “ALARP is achieved when the cost of further risk reduction measures is grossly disproportionate to the benefit gained from the reduced risk that would result” from implementing an alternative.

Mr Cronin confirmed that ESV understood the pipeline as having been designed to meet Residential (T1) conditions.

In response to the Panel’s requests for clarification, ESV provided further written advice to the Panel dated 3 May 2013. In relation to the residential densities applicable to the T1 and T2 categories defined by AS 2885.1-2012 and the basis for them ESV advised:

The basis for differentiation is population density, and the numbers of people that would be killed or injured in the event of a full bore rupture or other loss of containment. The standard does not provide a numerical delineation of population densities between ‘T1’ and ‘T2’ land use classifications.

APA has advised ESV that it considers a residential development of 30 lots per hectare in this case to be consistent with the ‘T1’ definition. ESV is satisfied with this advice.

In relation to the Hearing Version of the LWPSP map, ESV was asked to state its position with respect to:

ESV responded:

The pipeline has been designed consistent with ‘T1’ type land use within the 'pipeline measurement' area (in this case within 554m of the pipeline) …

The Standard identifies schools as 'Sensitive' land use…

ESV has been advised by APA that the Neighbourhood Activity Area was treated as ‘T2’ by the participants of the Safety Management Study …

As stated at the hearing, ESV's position is that it would be prudent planning from a safety perspective to attempt to locate any 'Sensitive' or 'T2' land use further than 554m from the pipeline.

Further, APA has calculated that in the event of a full bore rupture, a distance of 324m from the pipeline in this case is consistent with "a thermal radiation level of 12.6 kW/m2 [which] represents the threshold of fatality, for normally clothed people, resulting in third degree burns after 30 seconds exposure."‘ ESV does not consider it appropriate that any 'Sensitive' or ‘T2’ land use should be planned within 324m of the pipeline.

However, with regard to the area between 324m and 554m from the pipeline, and given that "ALARP is achieved when the cost of further risk reduction measures is grossly disproportionate to the benefit gained from the reduced risk that would result", ESV acknowledges the possibility that the principle of ALARP could be met with 'Sensitive' or 'T2' land use between 324m and 554m from the pipeline. Also, ESV recognises that ALARP may be demonstrated differently for 'Sensitive' and for ‘T2' land use given the different sectors of the community using the land.

ESV acknowledges that given the range of activities that could be permitted for the Neighbourhood Activity Centre and its proposed location between 324m and 554m from the pipeline, it would be feasible to achieve the ALARP principle, provided that the detailed design for the Centre has regard to a safety assessment carried out in collaboration with the pipeline licensee.

It is not clear to ESV from the version of the Precinct Structure Plan exhibited at the panel hearing how ALARP would be met for the schools that are shown to be within 554m of the pipeline. However, in an update of the Precinct Structure Plan that has been provided to ESV (revision V, or Draft 2), in which the schools are predominantly beyond 554m from the pipeline, the locations of the schools would be able to meet the ALARP principle given the physical constraint posed by drainage ditches to the north.

At the hearing ESV was asked questions about “credible” and “non-credible” threats of pipeline rupture as assessed in the SMS. ESV advised:

In the Standard, the term 'non-credible' when related to pipeline rupture has a specific meaning based on calculations of the extent of the damage to the pipeline resulting from threats to the pipeline identified as credible at the time of the safety assessment. In this instance the calculation was done on the basis of the threat of external interference from an excavator creating a puncture. Such an approach is consistent with industry practice.

It should not be assumed that the overall likelihood of full-bore pipeline rupture from all causes (which could include the action of horizontal boring or the use of 'trench rippers') throughout the operational life of the pipeline (likely to be another sixty-plus years), is non-credible in the commonly used sense. Particularly given the changes in drilling, boring, digging and other excavation technology that may take place in that time.

Mr Tobin described the proponent’s response to the submissions of APA and subsequent discussions with APA, which led to the Hearing Version (Version S) of the LWPSP map (Document 10). This version of the LWPSP and the proponent’s various expert evidence statements were prepared on the basis that APA and ESV “had not formally resolved their position with respect to the buffer area” and the proponent’s understanding that APA’s requirement was “likely to be 320-metre heat flux zone either side of the pipeline”.

The changes to the exhibited LWPSP map included in the Hearing Version of the map were:

In relation to the actions recommended in Appendix B of the SMS, Mr Tobin submitted that these could be accommodated in the LWPSP document, the UGZ schedule and in detailed design.

During the course of the Hearing Mr Tobin submitted a further version of the LWPSP map, C246 Hearing Version – 554m Heat Flux Zone Draft 2 (Version V, 2 May 2013). This version relocates schools and community facilities generally beyond a distance of 554 metres from the pipeline. However, the district open space / sports fields and neighbourhood and local activity centres remain within the 554 m “heat flux zone”.

In response to the Panel’s question about whether the Amendment properly responds to Clause 19.03-6 of the SPPF, Mr Tobin submitted:

… the objective talks of minimal risk, not no risk. That a proposal of any kind is absent any risk is rarely possible. Certainly it is not the basis upon which the pipe has already been constructed through a rural residential area to the south.

Regarding the strategy of protecting pipelines from further encroachment by residential development or other sensitive land uses, unless suitable additional protection of pipelines is provided, Mr Tobin submitted:

Again, the words are not premised on no residential encroachment, only that encroachment which is absent suitable protection (as regards the pipe).

Mr Montebello submitted for the Council that while it is regrettable that the pipeline issue was not identified earlier:

… the impact on the PSP is not critical nor structural given that the Australian Standard seems to somewhat curiously concern itself with the density of population rather than population per se. It is observed that the approach taken in the SMS appears to be a conservative assessment and although it makes reference to a preferable 554 metre buffer, the analysis seems a tad casual.

It remains to provide some recognition of this issue in the planning framework being put in place. Council submits that Schedule 4 to the Urban Growth Zone should be amended to reflect the gravity of the issues under consideration. This could be best done by including a referral process for any application within the buffer area which ought to ensure that there is an appropriate consideration of any actual proposal.

In relation to the Dacland proposal for a NAC within the 324 m heat flux zone Mr Montebello submitted that it is “not possible in the context of the impact of the gas pipeline”.

In closing submissions for the Council, Ms Eastaugh said that the revisions to the LWPSP made by the proponent in the course of the Hearing demonstrate:

While it may be possible to take other protective measures, it is also practical and relatively easy to comply with the Australian Standard by moving sensitive uses out of the 554 metre heat flux zone without causing any significant impact on the structure of the growth area. It also shows that it is possible to keep the activity centre elements out of the 324 metre heat flux zone. …

Accepting that the defined T1 uses are not an issue (according to the Australian Standard) because the pipeline was constructed to T1 standards, then the conventional and even medium density residential use of land is not inconsistent with clause 19 of the SPPF.

Ultimately, Council is reliant on bodies such as ESV and DPI in relation to this matter. Council does not have the necessary expertise where it comes to the pipeline issue.

Nevertheless Council only gave in-principle support to these changes because it had not had an opportunity to consider the various changes in detail. In this regard, in Council’s closing submission, Mr Anderson indicated that the process has been “a bit on the run” and therefore “Council was not in a position to put a stamp on the Plan with finality”. Mr Anderson also noted that internal referrals had not occurred in relation to the shifting of the open space.

Mr Tweedie submitted on behalf of Dacland Pty Ltd that the pipeline is a significant planning issue for the amendment, which the Council and proponent have not satisfactorily addressed and that the amendment “should not proceed further” until this has happened. In relation to Clause 19.03-6 he submitted:

… like all policy strategies, there is a need to balance this need for protection against the costs to the community of doing so. Ultimately, what is required is an assessment of the relative costs of protection against the relative benefits.

This, in turn, requires a rigorous and informed process of risk assessment. In Dacland’s view, the assessment of risks associated with the pipeline has, to date, been neither rigorous, nor well informed. It has also not been a fair or a transparent process.

Part of this is as a consequence of the unsatisfactory way in which information has been provided to the Panel and other parties.

Mr Tweedie cited the fact that the final SMS was not circulated until 4.00pm on the last business day before the Hearing and that:

In relation to AS 2885 Mr Tweedie submitted:

… the proper interpretation of the Standard is that it does not operate as a planning tool to prohibit or regulate land use. Rather, it is a standard by which pipeline operators manage the risk of construction and operation of their pipelines in accordance with their obligations under the Pipelines Act 2005 under the regulatory control of ESV.

In relation to the Council submission that Dacland’s NAC site is “not possible” because of the gas pipeline, Mr Tweedie submitted that the Panel is not is a position to make such a finding because this would be unfair and because the:

material before the Panel implies that the development of the Manzeene Avenue NAC is possible; provided a suitable SMS that assesses the proposed land uses and justifying that outcome is prepared

which Dacland is confident can be done.

Notifying Land Buyers

During the course of the Hearing the Panel raised the question of whether or not there should be a mechanism to advise purchasers of property within the “heat flux zone” of the proximity of the high-pressure gas pipeline. Mr Tobin opposed any notice mechanism for the following reasons:

In his written evidence Mr Milner said that the implications of the gas pipeline were not properly understood until recently. Accordingly he recommended:

… that arising from the experience in this matter, it would be appropriate for the City of Greater Geelong and the Department of Planning and Community Development to review how the relevant strategic and statutory planning tools can be used to properly draw attention to major infrastructure such as this.

At the Hearing Mr Milner further said that the way the pipeline issue had arisen in this case reflected a shortcoming of the Victorian planning system that the Panel should draw attention to.

In his verbal evidence Mr Milner said that ideally there should be a planning scheme overlay on the area affected by the pipeline to give effect to a required buffer. It would then be part of a vendor’s statement of the matters affecting land being sold, issued under Section 32 of the Sale of Land Act.

In relation to the amendments to the exhibited LWPSP Mr Milner said:

Despite the revisions to the plan, l am satisfied that its impact has not unreasonably and detrimentally impacted upon the urban design framework that is at the heart of the LWSP. The important relationships of the location of the activity centre, its abuttal to the regional open space, the location and integration of the public transport route, and the co-location with community facilities has not been fundamentally disturbed.

Finally I note that the easement passes through proposed residential areas as well as along drainage and open space corridors. The design and treatment of this easement warrants more careful detailing. The diagram at Attachment 2 should be included in the LWSP to illustrate how this may be achieved.

The diagram referred to by Mr Milner was accepted by the Council.

Changes to the draft UGZ4 relating to the pipeline

At the request of the Panel the Council circulated a post-Hearing (20 May 2013) draft of the UGZ4 consolidating changes agreed by the Council and proponent. Those changes relevant to the gas pipeline are discussed below in the following section of this report.


6.5 Discussion and Findings

The Panel agrees with the Council that it is unfortunate that the significance of the pipeline did not become apparent early in the planning process for the area. Indeed it is an issue that deserved consideration at the Lara structure planning stage.

The Panel also agrees with Mr Milner that this reflects a shortcoming in the planning system that deserves attention. In accordance with Clause 19.03-6 it would be appropriate to “recognise existing transmission-pressure gas pipelines in planning schemes” in a formal way, perhaps with high-pressure gas pipeline routes and associated “heat flux zones” marked on scheme maps with a dedicated Overlay control. This would require an amendment to the Victoria Planning Provisions.

The submissions of APA Gasnet (Operations) Pty Ltd were a critical element in the material before the Panel because they included the outcome of analyses reportedly conducted in accordance with Australian Standard AS 2885 and are put to justify controlling the type of land uses and the development intensity around the pipeline. The material put by APA, the owner and operator of the pipeline, was not supported by independent evidence and was not able to be tested by the Panel because APA did not appear.

Because of this state of affairs the Panel understands the frustrations of Mr Tweedie with the SMS submitted by APA. In particular, the Panel asked ESV at the Hearing about the basis for attributing a density of 30 lots per hectare to Residential T1 locations. The response at the Hearing was that this was understood to be the advice of a pipeline-engineering consultant advising APA. Given that many suburban areas are developed at a much lesser density than this and that the Growth Areas Authority aims to achieve 15 lots per hectare for PSPs it is responsible for, it would be worth understanding the basis for assigning a density of 30 lots per hectare in T1 areas.

However, the Panel does not agree with Mr Tweedie’s submission that the amendment should not proceed. This is because the Panel gives considerable weight to the views of Energy Safe Victoria (ESV), the independent regulator responsible for electricity, gas and pipeline safety in Victoria under the Energy Safe Victoria Act 2005. The Panel notes ESV’s acceptance of APA’s assertion that the pipeline has been designed for “Residential (T1)” conditions and that this means development at up to 30 lots per hectare. Indeed the Panel has the comfort of relying on the veto powers of the Minister for Pipelines Energy and Resources should he feel that the encroachment of higher population density activities under the LWPSP threatens the pipeline.

Given ESV’s submissions, the Panel is of the view that the LWPSP can proceed with suitable modifications.

Firstly, while it would be preferable for the NAC (as a “T2” location) to be located outside the 554 m “Heat Flux Zone”, the advice of ESV that it may be possible to site the NAC between the 324 m and 554 m radii subject to a safety assessment of the detail design, allows the Panel to conclude that the NAC configuration in Revision V of the LWPSP map may be acceptable. However, it must be acknowledged that the development of the NAC site nominated by this plan could prove impossible for safety or cost reasons once detailed plans are prepared and assessed. The Panel is not in a position to judge the likely outcome of this process.

Secondly, it is the Panel’s view that all Sensitive uses should preferably be at least 554 m from the pipeline. This should include all land set aside on the LWPSP for education centres, childcare centres, child and maternal health centres, residential aged care facilities, libraries and hospitals (if any). However, given the statements of ESV it appears that such facilities might be approved within the NAC (if beyond the 324 m “measurement length”), depending upon their character and design. Accordingly, the proponent’s suggestion that some child care and education uses might be included in the NAC, supported by the Council, should not be ruled out. The Panel envisages that suitable siting and design of such facilities within a commercial centre building may be possible.

In relation to the configuration of the school sites shown on Revision V of the LWPSP map, the Panel does not accept that site constraints are such that any part of the school sites should be within 554 m of the pipeline. ESV’s opinion about this was that the locations of the schools would be able to meet the ALARP principle given the “physical constraint posed by drainage ditches to the north”. However, Mr Craigie’s evidence was that the engineering design of these drainage facilities is flexible. Similarly, the Panel considers that layout of the proposed road system is flexible enough to facilitate the further minor reshaping of the school sites so that no portion of them are within 554 m of the pipeline. Therefore the Panel can see no compelling reason why the design of the LWPSP should not be modified by adjusting the layout rather than compromising the preferred set back distance for schools.

The Panel also has some concern that under the latest version of the LWPSP map about half of the sporting fields and the stadium site remain within the 554 m “Heat Flux Zone”. These facilities may fall within the ambit of the “High Density (T2)” location class under AS 2885.1, which includes “major … sporting facilities” where considerable numbers of people may gather in the open. Unfortunately, what is meant by “major sporting facilities” under the standard is unclear as there is no clarification of the term in the code. However, the Panel observes that there is little practical difference between a schoolyard and a sports field used for junior sport except perhaps in the frequency of use. The Panel is of the view that the location of these facilities is also reasonably flexible, that there is no overriding requirement that they be co-located with the NAC and that consideration could be given by the Council and proponent to relocating them to a location outside the 554 m “Heat Flux Zone”.

Unfortunately the urban designers for the proponent (SMEC Urban) were not called to give evidence so the Panel was not in a position to assess the reasoning and assumptions behind the proposed layout of the LWPSP in its various drafts. Therefore the Panel is unable to properly consider the viability of moving various elements around as a way of reducing risk. However, the site is a very large flat area without many other constraints so the Panel feels there is likely to be more than one design solution possible.

Where does this leave the draft LWPSP map? The Panel’s opinion is that the version tabled by the proponent on Day 4 of the Hearing (Revision V, Document 26) is a suitable basis for the maps to be included in the LWPSP and the UGZ Schedule subject to minor amendments to ensure that sites marked for schools and community facilities are entirely outside the 554 metre heat flux zone.

Mr Milner’s suggested plans

The indicative plans of lots fronting the pipeline easement proposed by Mr Milner and accepted by the Council may be acceptable to ESV and APA but this has not been tested. It is noted for example that one of these sketches shows the creation of lot access driveways across the easement, which may be problematic. The Panel finds that these plans should only be included in the LWPSP if ESV and APA agrees.

Dacland’s Manzeene Avenue site

The Panel makes no finding as to the effect of the high pressure gas pipeline on the NAC site proposed by Dacland, although it notes that in the context of this hearing, ESV’s position is that it does not consider it appropriate that ‘T2’ land uses, which include areas of major commercial development, town centres and shopping malls should be accommodated within 324 m of the pipeline. Considerations arising from the proximity of the pipeline to the Manzeene Avenue site are a matter for Council, ESV, DPI, APA and Dacland in their assessment of the amendment requested by Dacland for the Manzeene Avenue area (C285).

Changes to the draft UGZ Schedule relating to the pipeline

The Council’s post-Hearing (20 May 2013) draft of the UGZ Schedule includes the following suggestions relevant to the pipeline.

Council proposed a requirement in Part 2.5 that the Masterplan for the Patullos Road Area address the treatment of the pipeline following consultation with ESV and the pipeline licensee. The proponent agreed with this. The Panel supports the change.

It was agreed between the Council, the proponent and Dacland that a new referral requirement (Part 3.5) should include:

Any permit application for the use, development or subdivision of land within the gas easement heat flux zones as shown in the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan must be referred to Energy Safe Victoria.

The Panel agrees with this and supports indicating both the 554 m and the 324 m “Heat Flux Zones” on Plan 4 LWPSP. Map 1 shown in the post-Hearing draft Schedule does not show the heat flux zones and does not reflect the latest changes suggested by the proponent. The Panel finds that it should be modified to show both heat flux zones.

The proponent suggested that Table 2 in Part 2.3 include the uses “child care centre” and “education centre” if on land in the Neighbourhood Activity Centre with the condition “must have the written approval of the operator of the gas pipeline”. This was supported by Council with the proviso that Energy Safe Victoria should approve in addition to or in replacement of the pipeline operator. While there is a clear preference for such sensitive uses to be outside the 554 m “Heat Flux Zone”, the Panel agrees with this provision for the NAC (assuming it remains within the 554 m “Heat Flux Zone”).

The proponent suggested that Part 4.0 (Conditions and requirements for permits) should include:

Any planning permit for subdivision of land containing the pipeline easement, building or works within or abutting the easement must include the following condition:

Prior to the commencement of any works a construction management plan must be prepared to the satisfaction of the responsible authority, having regard to the comments of the gas pipeline operator (who must be provided with a copy of the CMP). The CMP must include a description of all machinery to be used, the nature and specification of proposed works and reporting mechanisms prior during and after the works.

The Council disagreed with this because it does not have the expertise to assess the risks associated with the pipeline. It relies on the referral to ESV and says that the requirements of a Construction Management Plan should be left to Energy Safe Victoria and APA. The Panel agrees with the Council that the need for and content of a construction management plan should be left to ESV.

In Section 6.0 Decision Guidelines of the Schedule Dacland suggested a new dot point, with the support of the proponent:

For any applications within the gas easement heat flux zone as shown on Map 1: any risks associated with the operation of the high pressure gas pipeline.

This, the Council says, is the purpose of the referral provisions and should be left to Energy Safe Victoria and APA. The Panel suggests that the following dot point be added instead:

For any applications within the gas easement heat flux zone as shown in the Lara West Precinct Structure Plan, the views of Energy Safe Victoria.

Changes to the LWPSP

On 12 April 2013 the Council circulated proposed changes to the LWPSP in accordance with the Panel’s Directions. These changes are supported subject to the following modifications:

Notifying Land Buyers

While the proximity of high voltage power lines may or may not influence prospective property buyers in their location choice, the power lines are highly visible. On the other hand an underground pipeline passing through a 20 m easement may not be noticed even one or two lots away. Furthermore, the “Heat Flux Zone” extends for 554 m from the pipeline. For these reasons, the Panel believes some form of notice for newcomers buying into the area about the existence of the pipeline is reasonable. Indeed formal pre-purchase notice may help avoid post-sale disputes between purchasers and the developer or Council.

The reasons advanced by Mr Tobin for opposing notice arrangements are not accepted by the Panel. While the Panel agrees that the pipeline’s design, construction and operation may render the risk to residents within the 554 m “Heat Flux Zone” acceptable to the pipeline operators and regulators, prospective land purchasers should be informed of the existence of the pipeline. They should be enabled to make their decision to invest and live in the area in the full knowledge that the pipeline exists and the risk is assessed as minimal by the relevant authorities.

The Panel does not agree with Mr Tobin that the provision of such information would lead to further approvals or delays and it need not lead to any added administrative burden of any significance to authorities. Nor does the Panel agree that some form of notice to purchasers would fail the test of relevance. In the Panel’s opinion the provision of such information would meet an objective of planning in Victoria “to balance the present and future interests of all Victorians”. It is in no-one’s interest that land purchasers be ignorant of the presence of the pipeline or the risks associated with it.

Furthermore the Panel notes that under AS 2885.3, as part of the management of external interference threats, a pipeline licensee is required to have regular communication with the community and stakeholders “to raise and reinforce awareness of the presence of a pipeline and the constraints with respect to the use of land on and near the pipeline”. The licensee is also required to place signs on the route of the pipeline. Notification of buyers at the time of purchase would complement these requirements. This could be achieved by a condition on subdivision permits within the 554 m “Heat Flux Zone” requiring a Section 173 Agreement registered on land titles. The wording of the notice should be developed by the responsible authority in consultation with ESV, APA and the proponent with the aim of ensuring an understanding of the nature of the hazard presented by the pipe. A provision to give effect to this could be included in Part 4 of the Schedule and is so recommended.

By way of summary, the Panel finds:


6.6 Recommendations

The Panel recommends:

Changes to both the LWPSP and the UGZ Schedule

Changes to the LWPSP

Changes to the UGZ Schedule

Other


Appendix 8 - Energy Safe Victoria Letter to Council, 19 August 2013

Image of letter (page 1 of 2)to Peter Schembri from energysafe Victoria
Image of letter (page 2)to Peter Schembri from energysafe Victoria

Appendix 9 – Incorporated Documents


Appendix 9 Documents

Available Upon Request

Telephone: 5272 4244



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3. Amendment C298 Combined Planning Scheme Amendment and Planning Permit Application for Land at 400 Melbourne Road, North Geelong – McDonalds Restaurant

Portfolio:

Planning- Cr Macdonald

Source

Economic Development, Planning and Tourism- Strategic Implementation

General Manager:

Peter Bettess

Index Reference:

Application: C298
Subject: Council Reports 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek Council support to prepare and exhibit Amendment C298 to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme under Section 96A of the Planning & Environment Act 1987.


Summary

Cr E Kontelj moved, Cr Fisher seconded -

That Council resolves to:

  1. Support the preparation and exhibition of Amendment C298 to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme to:

  2. Consider the application for a planning permit to:

  3. Request the Minister for Planning to authorise the preparation and exhibition of Amendment C298 and Planning Permit 782/2013.

Carried.


Background

Amendment C298 is a combined planning scheme amendment and planning permit application submitted to Council under s96A of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

Council proposes to rezone, subdivide and sell the land which is occupied by the McDonalds restaurant. Prior to selling the land, it is proposed to ‘tidy-up’ the land through the rezoning and subdivision process, thereby, ensuring the appropriate controls are implemented.

The amendment proposes to rezone an area of 3278 sq. metres from Public Park and Recreation Zone to Commercial 2 Zone and apply the Environmental Audit Overlay over the land to be rezoned (See Appendix 3);

The planning permit application is for the subdivision of the land containing the McDonalds restaurant (3278 sq. metres) from Reserve No.1 on Plan of Subdivision 424106U (Vol 10497 Fol 507), remove the Reserve restriction from Reserve No 1 of Plan of Subdivision 424106U (Vol 10497 Fol 507) as it applies to the lot to be subdivide, and include a carriageway easement in favour of the land to be subdivided for the entire length of the northern boundary (62.2m) extending north to the face of the kerb. (See Appendix 4 Existing Title and Appendix 5 Draft Plan of Subdivision.)

The existing zoning of the land is Public Park and Recreation Zone. Commercial 2 Zone and Industrial 1 Zone land lies to the north, Road Zone 1 to the east, Public Park and Recreation Zone to the south and west. (See Appendix 2.)

The affected land is roughly square in shape and relatively flat. It contains a McDonalds restaurant and associated access and car parking arrangements.

The affected land is owned by Council. McDonalds Australia Ltd. Has leased the land to be subdivided from Council since the 1980’s. The lease is a ground lease with options up until 2048.

The land forms part of a wider Reserve and being part of Deppeler Park (also known as Seagull Paddock). The wider reserve is approximately 7.4ha. The broader parkland area fronting the Melbourne Road has a lake formed by a weir on Cowies Creek and walking paths, a major sewer pumping station owned by Barwon Water and a McDonalds restaurant.

The land in the Cowies Creek or Deppeler Park area is identified in the 2009 Qualitative Assessment of former Geelong landfill sites. It is likely that the subject land was a former landfill site between the late 1950’s and early 1970’s. The former landfill is provided with a ‘low risk’ assessment by the 2009 Qualitative Assessment mainly due to its relative isolation from residential land uses and the length of time the landfill site has been closed.


Discussion

The justification for the proposed rezoning and subdivision application is confirmed through the conflicting nature of the current use of the land in the Public Park and Recreation Zone and also, through the process of preparing Council owned land for sale.

The use of the land as a food and drink premises conducted by/on behalf of a private operator conflicts with the underlying purpose of the Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ). A purpose of the PPRZ is:

“To recognise areas for public recreation and open space.”

The PPRZ is the main zone for public open space and public recreation areas. Generally, land in the PPRZ is overseen by a public land manager, for example, a Council, and any use is conducted on their behalf.

Ministerial Direction on The Form and Content of Planning Schemes advises that:

“A planning scheme may only include land in a Public Use Zone, a Public Park and Recreation Zone or a Public Conservation Zone and Resource Zone if the land is Crown land, or is owned by, vested in or controlled by a Minister, government, public authority or municipal council.”

The land is in Council ownership but it is not available for public use or as a park and it has been leased to McDonalds since the 1980’s. Should the land be sold to a private buyer whilst in the PPRZ, this would conflict with the Ministerial Direction.

To reflect the historic use of the land and to accord with the best practice advice provided by the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure (DTPLI) for the sale of public land, consideration must be given to the appropriate zone for the land. Clause 34.02 Commercial 2 Zone is the most appropriate zone.

A purpose of the Commercial 2 Zone is:

“To develop commercial areas for offices, appropriate manufacturing and industries, bulky goods retailing, other retail uses, and associated business and commercial services.”

The Commercial 2 Zone allows the current use of the land subject to obtaining a planning permit. Given the McDonalds restaurant is an established use, a permit is not required for the use in this instance. The Commercial 2 Zone is considered the most appropriate zone in the context of the current use of the site and the likely uses and development that Council would support in the future.

In addition to the above, the Best Practice Note (Page 7) advises that consideration be given to the highest and best use of the land being proposed for sale, whether subdivision would be appropriate, an environmental report where there is possible contamination, where contaminated, a strategy for remediation is prepared. Fundamentally, the preparation of land for sale should be cost-effective and be consistent with the nature of the land being proposed for sale as well as the circumstances which have led to the proposed sale.

The introduction of the Environmental Audit Overlay is in line with the above State Government guidance and with Ministerial Direction No. 1 Potentially Contaminated. Direction No.1 requires that planning authorities when preparing amendments to satisfy themselves that the environmental conditions of the land proposed to be used for a sensitive use defined as residential use, a child care centre, a pre-school centre or a primary school, or agriculture or public open space, are or will be, suitable for that use.

The proposed Environmental Audit Overlay recognises the previous use of the land for landfill and will ensure that the requirement of the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme and Ministerial Direction No. 1 are met before the commencement of a sensitive use or any associated building or works. In the case of the proposed Commercial 2 Zone, a sensitive use could potentially be an “Education Centre”- a primary school.

The permit to subdivide the land from the Reserve and remove the Reserve restriction is a logical proposal and will facilitate the sale of the land. The subdivision of the land will form a new lot for the McDonalds site, including a carriageway easement over the Reserve land to the north in favour of the proposed lot, thereby ensuring continued rights of access (See Appendix 5).

Internal referrals were sent to Council’s Engineering (Drainage) Unit, Environmental Health and Recreation and Open Space. A number of comments were received by these units, which have informed the initial assessment of the application. VicRoads was also notified and offered no objection.

Council provides the following reasons of justification for the proposed rezoning:

The combined planning scheme amendment and planning permit application is considered a logical proposal and will lead to a good planning outcome. It will assist Council to sell Council owned land that is considered to have a better financial outcome over leasing the property.

It is noted that this Council report, which seeks support to prepare and exhibit the combined planning scheme amendment and planning permit application, is supported by a Sale report prepared by Council. The Sale report discusses the detailed financial implications for the affected land.


Environmental Implications

The amendment and planning permit are unlikely to create any adverse environmental issues. The amendment process will ensure that on-site environmental conditions are suitable for sensitive land uses by introducing a planning control, namely the Environmental Audit Overlay.


Financial Implications

There will be associated planning scheme amendment costs (amendment fees, panel costs and representation as required) as part of the implementation process given this is a Council initiated amendment. Exact costs for specific stages of the amendment process are difficult determine at present. Nonetheless, this can be accommodated within the existing department budget.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

Amendment C298 is consistent with the State and Local Planning Policy Frameworks, that comprise part of the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme, as outlined below.

The State Planning Policy Framework is relevant to the assessment of this proposal in so far as it discusses the use of contaminated and potentially contaminated land, at Clause 13.03-1 of the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme. Clause 13.03-1 states that the objective is:

“To ensure that potentially contaminated land is suitable for its intended future use and development, and that contaminated land is used safely.”

The strategy for Clause 13.03-1 requires applicants to provide adequate information on the potential for contamination to have adverse effect on the future land use, where the subject land is known to have been used for industrial, mining or the storage of chemicals, gas, wastes or liquid fuel.

The Local Planning Policy Framework is of limited relevance to the planning scheme amendment.

The introduction of Clause 45.03 Environmental Audit Overlay to the land is considered a logical proposal. The purpose of the Environmental Audit Overlay is:

“To ensure that potentially contaminated land is suitable for a use which could be significantly adversely affected by any contamination.”

Clause 45.03 requires:

Before a sensitive use (residential use, child care centre, pre-school centre or primary school) commences or before the construction or carrying out of buildings and works in association with a sensitive use commences, either:

The planning scheme amendment will be carried out in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987.


Alignment to City Plan

The amendment aligns with the City Plan’s strategic direction, How We Do Business, and the priority relating to “Responsible and Sustainable financial management”. The amendment will assist Council in maintaining a strong financial position by rezoning, subdividing and selling the subject land.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No Council officers or contractors involved in the proposed rezoning and planning permit have a direct or indirect interest in matters contained in this report.


Risk Assessment

There are no significant notable risks that would arise as a consequence of the combined planning scheme amendment and planning permit.

Consideration has been given to the previous use of the site, which formed part of a landfill between the 1950’s and 1970’s. It is proposed that the Environmental Audit Overlay will be applied to the affected land to ensure that if a sensitive use is proposed in the future, the requirements of the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme and Ministerial Direction No.1 Contaminated Land, will be complied with, where relevant.

The preparation of the planning scheme amendment is in accordance with the requirements of Ministerial Direction No.1.


Social Considerations

The planning scheme amendment is unlikely to result in any adverse social impacts on adjoining land uses. The site has been used by McDonalds Australia Ltd. since the 1980’s and will remain in commercial use as a consequence of the proposed rezoning from Public Park and Recreation Zone to Commercial 2 Zone. One of the purposes of the Commercial 2 Zone is to ensure that uses do not affect the safety and amenity of adjacent, more sensitive uses.


Human Rights Charter

The amendment will not impact on any basic rights, freedoms, responsibilities as set out in the Charter. Planning legislation ensures an open community consultation process occurs enabling people to freely express their views and if necessary, obtain a fair hearing before an Independent Planning Panel.


Consultation and Communication

Should Council support the preparation and exhibition of the combined planning scheme amendment and planning permit, Council officers will request authorisation from the Minister for Planning to exhibit the application. The exhibition period will be for a minimum 30 days and will provide members of the public an opportunity to make a submission and be heard by an Independent Planning Panel, should it be necessary. The notice of exhibition for Amendment C298 will be published in the local newspapers and Government gazette.

Consultation with relevant referral authorities will also be undertaken during the exhibition of the application.


Appendix 1 Site Location Plan

Appendix 1 Site Location Plan

Appendix 2 Existing Zoning Map

Appendix 2 Existing Zoning Map


Appendix 3 Proposed Zoning and Overlay Maps

Appendix 3 Proposed Zoning Map - Commercial 2 Zone
Appendix 3 Proposed Overlay Map - Environmental Audit Overlay


Appendix 4 Existing Title- 400 Melbourne Rd, North Geelong

Register Search Statement - Volume 10497 Foio 507
Plan of Subdivision PS 424106U
Plan of Subdivision PS 424106U - Sheet 2 of 2

Appendix 5 Draft Plan of Subdivision

Draft Plan of Subdivision - Sheet 1 of 3
Draft Plan of Subdivision - Sheet 2 of 3
Draft Plan of Subdivision - Sheet 3 of 3

[Back to List]

4. Sale of Land – 400 Melbourne Road, North Geelong

Portfolio:

Finance - Cr S Kontelj

Source:

Corporate Services - Property Management

General Manager:

Jeff Wall

Index Reference:

Subject: Land Sales

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to recommend that the Council sell the McDonald’s restaurant land at 400 Melbourne Road, North Geelong subject to the land being rezoned and subdivided.


Summary

Cr E Kontelj moved, Cr Fisher seconded -

That Council:

  1. Commence the procedures to sell land of 3,278m2 (“the land”) located at 400 Melbourne Road, North Geelong on the following terms and conditions:

  2. Commence the procedures under section 189 of the Local Government Act 1989 (“the Act”) to sell the land and that public notice of and the right of a person under section 223 of the Act to make a submission in relation to the proposed sale be given in the Geelong Advertiser and Geelong Independent; and

  3. Appoint the Submissions Review Panel to hear and report to the Council on any submissions in relation to the proposed sale; and

  4. Sell the land if no submissions are received; and

  5. Authorise the General Manager – Corporate Services to execute the Contract of Sale; and

  6. Sign and seal the Transfer of Land.

* Cr S Kontelj entered the meeting room at 7:32pm


Carried.


Background

The Council is the owner of land at 400 Melbourne Road, Norlane containing the McDonald’s restaurant. The land is part of Reserve No 1 on PS424106U consisting of approximately 7.4ha and being part of Deppeler Park (also known as Seagull Paddock).

Deppeler Park consists of approximately 17.8 ha of open space and waterway extending from Cowie Street in the south to The Boulevard in the north and is adjoined on all sides by industrial and commercial land uses. The waterway is formed by a weir on Cowies Creek and the park contains walking paths, a major sewer pumping station owned by Barwon Water and a McDonald’s Restaurant. The walking paths terminate a lineal trail extending some 2.7 km upstream along Cowies Creek to beyond the Ring Road.

The McDonald’s facility consists of a single building housing a café, restaurant and drive through plus 49 on site car parking spaces. Separate points of access and egress are provided to and from the Melbourne Road and a single point of access and egress is provided to the internal road to Deppeler Park to the north of the facility (refer to Attachment 1).

McDonald’s Australia has occupied the site since 1980 under a ground lease which was renewed in 2003 when the restaurant was reconstructed. The existing lease has options up until 2048 and the current rent is $87,592 per year and McDonald’s owns all improvements on the land.

The land is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone.

Subject to the land being rezoned, the Reserve restriction being removed from the title and the land being rezoned to Business 4 Zone with an Environmental Audit Overlay, it is recommended land of 3,278m2 containing the McDonald’s restaurant be sold by public auction. An application has been lodged with the Council’s Planning Department to subdivide the restaurant land from the balance of the Council’s Reserve and to have the land rezoned.

The justification for the recommended sale of the land takes into account the following:


Environmental Implications

The land in the Cowies Creek or Deppeler Park area is identified in a 2009 Qualitative Assessment of former Geelong landfill sites and it is likely that the land proposed to be rezoned and sold was a former landfill site between the late 1950’s and early 1970’s. The former landfill is provided with a low risk assessment by the 2009 Quantitative Assessment mainly due to its relative isolation from residential land uses and the length of time the landfill site has been closed.

Providing the land remains appropriately capped and any works penetrating the ground are appropriately managed and controlled, any potential adverse environmental effects can be effectively managed.

There is no significant native vegetation present on the land to be sold.


Financial Implications

The sale of the land will result in a reduction of annual rental income being replaced by a single payment of the sale proceeds. The sale proceeds will be accounted for as general revenue.

A financial analysis of the options of either leasing (holding) or selling the property has been carried out which indicates that in present day value selling the property is either comparable to or more advantageous than continuing to lease the property.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

Under the Local Government Best Practice Guideline for the Sale and Exchange of Land, the Council is required to ensure that “prior to being offered for sale, property should be appropriately zoned. This will ensure that the ultimate use of the land is determined by that zone and the highest possible sale price is achieved.”

Under the same Guideline land is required to be sold by a public process and the recommended sale by public auction meets this requirement.

Section 189 of the Local Government Act (“LG Act”) requires that Council obtain a certified valuation dated not more than six months prior to the sale of the land being the date of the contract of sale. Prior to sale a certified valuation of the land will be obtained and the final sale price will not be less than the Council’s valuation.

The Council is also required to give public notice of its intention to sell the land and consider any submissions received. If any submissions are received they will be heard by the Submissions Review Panel followed by a report to Council. If no submissions are received the land will be sold by public auction.

Under the lease between the Council and McDonald’s Australia the land may be sold by public auction. If the land is sold by any other means then McDonald's Australia has the right to purchase the land at a price not greater than and on terms no less favourable than those offered by another purchaser.

The Property Strategy Advisory Committee has considered this report.


Alignment to City Plan

The recommendation supports the action priority relating to Responsible and Sustainable Financial Management where the sale of assets no longer required will support the identified progress indicators.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No officers or contractors involved in the preparation of this report have a direct or indirect interest in matters to which this report relates.


Risk Assessment

The risks associated with the subdivision and sale of this land are able to be managed following normal management procedures and processes.


Social Considerations

There are no social implications associated with the recommendations of this report.


Human Rights Charter

The recommendations of this report will have no effect on the human rights of individuals.


Consultation and Communication

Sport and Recreation does not consider that the site has any future recreation value.


Attachment 1 SALE OF LAND - 400 MELBOURNE ROAD NORTH GEELONG

Aerial View of the Land Proposed to be Sold

Aerial View of the Land Proposed to be Sold

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5. Women in Community Life Advisory Committee

Portfolio:

Women in Community Life – Cr Farrell (Interim)

Source:

Community Services

General Manager:

Jenny McMahon

Index Reference:

Subject: Advisory Committees / Women in Community Life Advisory Committee


Purpose

To seek Council approval to appoint the recommended applicants a position on the Women in Community Life Advisory Committee.


Summary

Cr Farrell moved, Cr Irvine seconded -

That Council appoints the following applicants to the Women in Community Life Advisory Committee:

  1. Amanda Hyland - Individual applicant (Geelong West)

  2. Antonia Halloran-Lavelle - Organisation representative, Zena Women’s Services

  3. Christine Couzens - Organisation representative, Geelong Trades Hall

  4. Davina Montgomery - Individual applicant (Leopold)

  5. Dianne Pont - Individual applicant (Norlane)

  6. Hannah Teesdale - Individual applicant (Lara)

  7. Helen Curmi - Individual applicant (Geelong)

  8. Jennifer Wills - Individual applicant (Portarlington)

  9. Justine Devonport - Organisation representative, YWCA Victoria

  10. Priscilla Pescott - Individual applicant (Belmont)

  11. Prof. Shurlee Swain - Individual applicant (Geelong)

  12. Chelsea Hatherall - Individual applicant (Geelong West)


Carried.


Background

In July 2013 Council approved the establishment of the Women in Community Life Advisory Committee.

The Women in Community Life Advisory Committee is being established to provide advice to Council on matters relating to women’s participation, representation and leadership in community life.

Specifically, the Committee has been established to:

The Advisory Committee membership will comprise representation from organisations and individuals, with the Portfolio holder as chairperson, supported by Cr Jan Farrell as Council’s nominated representative, with support from a Council officer.

Advisory Committee members are expected to be active and to report, share, and promote actions and deliberations from and to the organisations which they are connected to.


Discussion

Following a municipal wide recruitment process during July and August 2013, Council received 15 applications. The Committee Terms of Reference proposes a membership of 8-10 people.

All applications were assessed against key selection criteria which were clearly identified in the Applicant Information Pack. This pack was distributed to all applicants.

The applicants recommended for appointment have met all of the selection criteria and have been able to demonstrate their capacity to be active members, have strong community networks and a passion for furthering equality and participation of women in civic and community life.

The recommended applicants represent a range of ages, experiences and backgrounds, ensuring a diversity in the make up of the Committee.

While the Terms of Reference nominates 10 members as the maximum number, it is recommended that 12 of the applicants be appointed. This will ensure a good number of participants are involved assuming some members may be unable to attend and that the committee is representative of the general community as possible. There is representation from across the City (geographically), age range and experience.


Environmental Implications

Not applicable.


Financial Implications

There are no financial implications linked to this report. All activities undertaken will be within current budget allocations.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

The appointments are made in accordance with the criteria set out in the Committee Terms of Reference adopted by Council in July 2013.


Alignment to City Plan

The Advisory Committee aligns with City Plan through:

The Committee will advise Council on barriers to women’s participation, emerging women’s issues, aspirations and initiatives so as to further gender equity in the Geelong community.

The Committee will move between being proactive and responsive in matters, depending on the matter being raised.

Feedback on the development of policies and planning that impact on the women and community life through consultative processes will be documented in Consult and reported against in Corvu.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No Council officer involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest in the matter to which the report relates.


Risk Assessment

Not applicable.


Social Considerations

The Advisory Committee will provide an opportunity for Council to show active support in increasing participation of women in community and civic life.


Human Rights Charter

The rights listed in the Human Rights Charter promote the principles of freedom, respect, equality and dignity. These principles are incorporated in the Victorian Local Government Women’s Charter.


Consultation and Communication

The Community Services Division is responsible for all communication relating to this report.


[Back to List]

6. Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013-2017 – Dogs in Public Places Policy 2013-2017

Portfolio:

Community Development – Cr Fisher

Source:

Community Services / Health & Local Laws

General Manager:

Jenny McMahon

Index Reference:

Subject: Domestic Animal Management Plan

Purpose

To inform Council of the results of the public submissions received in response to the Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan and Proposed Dogs in Public Places Policy, and to seek endorsement for the adoption of the Plan and gazetting of the Policy.


Summary

Cr Fisher moved, Cr Ansett seconded -

That Council:

  1. adopt the Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013-2017 and the Dogs in Public Places Policy 2013-2017, with any additional expenditure to be referred to future budgets;

  2. in accordance with S.10A of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 require all newly registered cats to be desexed, and for all existing (registered) cats to be desexed within the four year life of the Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013-2017.

Carried.


Background

In accordance with Section 68A of theDomestic Animals Act 1994, every Council must prepare a Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAM Plan), to promote animal welfare, responsible ownership of dogs and cats and to protect the environment. This plan must be updated every four years.

In addition, a revised Dogs in Public Places Policy (DPPP) was developed, which provides detailed information regarding the dog orders in the City of Greater Geelong. This is particularly relevant to the extensive “Off-leash – supervised” areas where owners are expected to maintain effective voice control over their dog.

Council has consulted extensively with the community, within Council, with experts and land managers.


Discussion

The following details the results of the public submissions and explores further the key issues.

  1. Results of public submissions

Forty submissions were received from individuals and organisations. The majority of submissions were supportive of the proposed actions of the plan, particularly the mandatory desexing of cats. However many raised concerns about the potential costs to individuals for the desexing of animals, a perceived lack of enforcement for existing dog control orders, especially relating to “off-leash” areas, and dog litter. A summary of the most commonly raised issues is presented in Figure 1, and a summary listing of all submissions is at Appendix 1.

Figure 1: Most common issues raised by submissions

Definitions:

Enforcement/patrols – the need for an increased visible presence of Council Officers to enforce the off-leash provisions and increase compliance with dog litter removal.

Desexing costs/subsidies – concerns regarding the costs to individuals for desexing, and support for a subsidy or discount for those on low-incomes.

Mandatory desexing cats – support for the mandatory desexing of cats.

Signage– the need to ensure that locations subject to dog control orders are clearly signed, including the meaning of “off-leash – supervised”, where dogs are required to be under effective voice control at all times, and restrained when approaching other dogs or people.

Wetlands/Environment – concerns regarding the environmental impact of off-leash dogs in environmentally sensitive areas. The importance of appropriate signage and enforcement by Council Officers were highlighted as measures to reduce these concerns.

  1. Ensuring the effectiveness of the Dogs in Public Places Policy.

An enhanced compliance strategy will be developed for the implementation of the DPPP. Times and frequencies of patrols to identify dogs at large, prevent dog attacks and ensure compliance with the Dog Control Orders will be extended. Enforcement activities of the animal management team will be publicised through CoGG’s Facebook page and CoGG publications to increase their visibility to the community.

Emerging opportunities exist for the development of mobile applications to enable residents to obtain quick and accurate information relating to dog orders and other animal management issues. These will be explored further as part of future budget processes.

By adopting the revised DPPP, amendments will be required to existing signage/stencils and new signage will be required at specific locations.

  1. Mandatory Desexing of Cats

The DAM Plan introduces the mandatory desexing of all new cat registrations, and the desexing of all registered cats over the four year period of the plan. This is to address the over-population of cats in the community, and high rates of impoundments. The feasibility of offering a low-cost/subsidised desexing program to assist with compliance with mandatory desexing will be investigated. Certain classes of dogs and cats are exempt from desexing requirements, including those registered with applicable organisations such as registered breeders or where veterinary advice exists that the health of the animal may be compromised by the procedure.

  1. Partnerships

It was also recognised that the development of partnerships with local veterinary clinics, animals trainers/behaviourists and community groups has the potential to significantly “value-add” to Council’s animal management regime, particularly in regards to the promotion of responsible pet ownership.

  1. Bark control collars

CoGG has previously purchased a number of electronic bark control collars. Bark Count Collars will improve the investigation of dog barking complaints by providing reliable quantitative data to officers of the frequency and nature of barking in order to establish whether a nuisance exists.

  1. Dog Park Scoping Study

Dedicated and fenced dog parks are becoming increasingly common in local government areas of Australia. They can range from simple fenced areas to facilities with elaborate exercise and enrichment equipment and furniture for owners. This scoping study will examine the factors which should be considered in the placement and operation of such parks,and identify areas in CoGG which may be suitable for their development.

  1. Dog Patrols on Non-CoGG Managed Land

Council has in place dog control orders with two agencies Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) and Barwon Coast Committee of Management (BCCM), and is currently liaising with the Bellarine Bayside Foreshore Committee of Management (BBFCM) on developing dog control orders that ensure safety and meet community expectations.

Council is continuing to work with the BBFCM and the BCCM to develop dog control orders that are in harmony with the CoGG orders outlined in the DPPP.

Council currently offers dog patrols and enforcement to CCMA and BCCM on a “user pays” system. The levels and frequency of patrols has been minimal and would appear to not meet the community’s expectations of adequate coverage in this regard. There is scope in this area for Council to take a proactive prevention-based approach by increasing animal patrols in partnership with the agencies. This may include authorising officers from those agencies to undertake certain activities and duties to assist our officers with investigations.


Environmental Implications

Environmental considerations have been canvassed during the development of this plan. The risk of off-leash dogs accessing wetlands and waterways and interfering with wildlife was noted in a small number of submissions. These included instances where dogs had been witnessed accessing sensitive habitats and harassing water birds, while not under the effective supervision of their owners.

Under the DPPP, dogs are not permitted to enter waterways or wetlands, or to approach wildlife. Signage in these areas will clearly state these requirements. The proposed enhanced compliance strategy, involving weekend and after-hours patrols will enforce these provisions. Information from the community may assist Animal Control Officers to target “hot spots” of non-compliance.

Favourable outcomes should be achieved with the promotion that any CoGG litter bin being suitable for the disposal of dog litter when contained within a package or bag.


Financial Implications

The majority of actions arising from the DAM Plan and DPPP will be based on existing internal processes and funding. Community consultation identified several areas which may require additional expenditure, specifically the need for an increased compliance presence from Council Officers in the community, and signage which reflect the dog control orders. With the significant expansion of areas declared under dog control orders, there will be the need for the review of existing signage, the installation of additional signage and the identification of an appropriate asset manager. Community understanding of the dog control orders will also be enhanced through the development of a smartphone application, which will detail the orders and conditions for specific locations, and will add business functionality for registration renewals and the reporting of dog incidents.

The revised DAM plan and DPPP (see Appendix 2 and 3) provides for improved risk management which will require additional resources or a reallocation of resources if it is to deliver the level of compliance expected by the community, particularly in regards to “off-leash” areas.

Any additional cost implications will be factored into future budgets. An indicative listing of current and proposed future operational activities and expenditure is presented in Table 1.

Table 1: Indicative Activities and Expenditure - DAMP 2013-2017

 

Current Funded Program Activities

Funding type

Year 1 (2013/14)

Year 2 (2014/15)

Year 3 (2015/16)

Year 4 (2016/17)

Totals
(2013-17)

Signage

Discretionary

40,000

 

 

 

40,000

Information materials

Discretionary

23,000

 

 

 

23,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Activities/Funding Arising from Proposed DAMP 2013-2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional patrols (1 EFT & Vehicle)

Recurrent

 

90,000

92,700

95,481

278,181

Animal management app

Discretionary

 

25,000

2,000

2,000

29,000

Scoping study for dog parks

Discretionary

 

15,000

 

 

15,000

Online impoundment billboard

Discretionary

 

10,000

5,000

5,000

20,000

Additional signage for dog control orders

Capital

 

50,000

10,000

10,000

70,000

Asset management (signage upkeep)

Capital

 

5,000

5,000

5,000

15,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

427,181

Specific reports and budgets will be developed for Council as part of the annual and long-term budgeting process for activities covered in the ensuing years of this plan.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

Council is required to have a Domestic Animal Management Plan under the Domestic Animal Act 1994. Council’s are responsible for the implementation of actions from the plan, and for enacting the requirements of the Act to protect the safety of the community and maintaining the welfare of cats and dogs.


Alignment to City Plan

While many of the actions from this plan align across all four of Council’s strategic directions, it most closely aligns with the strategic priority of Community Wellbeing:


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No Officer involved in the production of this report and associated plans and policies have a Direct or Indirect Interest in these matters.


Risk Assessment

Extensive community consultation has been undertaken to ensure that, on balance, requirements contained within the plan and policy are consistent with community views.

Council may be subject to reputational risk if the requirements of the Dogs in Public Places Policy is not seen by the community as being effectively enforced.

The proposed changes to the DPPP represent a responsible approach by Council in effectively managing dogs in public places as so to minimise risk exposure.


Social Considerations

The majority of survey respondents and public submissions were supportive of the plan and policy. The promotion and management of responsible pet ownership in the community has tangible social benefits, including increased social mixing, increased outdoor exercise and psychological wellbeing.


Human Rights Charter

The DAM Plan and DPPP have been considered in light of the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities, and are consistent with these rights and principles.


Consultation and Communication

The plan and policy have received 568 survey responses from the community, and 40 written submissions. Copies of the final plan will be printed and made available to the community. The final plan will also be placed on Council’s website. Information resources from the plan and in support of the policy will be printed and made available through Customer Service Centres, community stakeholders and the website. Key aspects of the plan will be promoted in media and in information forwarded to all registered pet owners.

The education and enforcement activities which stem from the plan and the policy will be promoted using the CoGG social media resources and through regular communication channels such as CityNews.



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7. Financial Sustainability Review

Portfolio:

Governance - Cr Harwood (Acting Mayor)
Finance – Cr S Kontelj

Source:

Office of Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer:

Stephen Griffin

Index Reference:

CT Management

Purpose

To release the Public Report of the independent Financial Sustainability Review undertaken by CT Management Group and confirm implementation actions.


Summary

Cr Harwood moved, Cr S Kontelj seconded -

That Council:

  1. receives the Financial Sustainability Review – Public Report (Appendix 1;)

  2. endorses the Key Actions being undertaken in response to the Financial Sustainability Review key findings.

Carried.


Background

At the completion of a quotation process consultants CT Management Group were appointed to undertake a high level Financial Sustainability Review.

The consultants brief detailed that a key objective for Council is to maintain a financially sustainable position whilst keeping future rates and charges increases at affordable levels. In the medium term Council will also be challenged with managing a number of emerging budget issues that include:

These issues add to the complexity of ensuring Council applies its resources in the most efficient manner and in the right areas. To assist with these decision processes Council sort the independent strategic review of the overall efficiency and economy of its operations.

The review was to provide information to assist consideration of whether a more detailed examination will be undertaken to focus on special operations, services, processes or projects.

Scope of Consultancy

The review and assessment of Council operations from an overall financial sustainability perspective was to include:

Methodology

The review included interviews with the Mayor and Councillors, Chief Executive Officer, General Managers and Managers. Staff were also provided the opportunity to complete a survey and to identify areas where they believed improvement could be achieved.

CT Management also prepared Functional Span Maps and Activity Statements as a foundation to support future service planning.

Analysis was also undertaken to identify potential underutilised assets, services that are not commonly provided by Victorian Councils and surplus land.

Recommendations have identified resource allocation changes aimed at improving internal effectiveness and efficiency.


Discussion

Financial Sustainability Review Findings

The Financial Sustainability Review has confirmed that the City of Greater Geelong is challenged with the dual pressure of managing growth and renewing its ageing infrastructure and maintaining an affordable and acceptable service level across a vast array of approximately 120 services. The City is going through a transition with priority investment in new infrastructure in growth areas required to service demand. This outlay is competing with the measurable need to reinvest and renew current infrastructure to underwrite ongoing service provision.

The review has determined that the City of Greater Geelong is a financially sustainable organisation. The Council has choices: if the current expenditure requirement is to be maintained the rate revenue will need to increase, or operating and capital expenditure will need to decrease.

Benchmarking and comparative analysis demonstrate positive financial indicators across revenue, expenditure, capital and balance sheet ratios. Council is in a strong position to make decisions to secure its long term future.

The Four Priority findings from this review are the need for:

As part of the review CT Management identified potential one off capital savings through potential asset sales of between $27 million and $56 million, with potential recurrent savings and income sources of between $2.4 million and $6.7 million.

It was acknowledged that a number of savings and efficiencies would require community consultation with respect to the impact of any potential changes in service levels arising from any decisions.

Savings and efficiencies are targets over the life of City Plan.

A copy of the CT Management Financial Sustainability Review – Public Report is provided as Appendix 1.

An extract from the conclusion (Page 25 Financial Sustainability Review – Public Report) confirms the following:

“This has been an intensive review of the financial sustainability of the City of Greater Geelong and the recommendations are designed to improve the City’s sustainability. We have modelled our results in our Long Term Financial Plan and look forward to reviewing these with Council and Management. Overall, management was dedicated to the delivery of this project and was supportive throughout. Significant amounts of information were made available in a timely manner by all participants –there is a culture committed to continuous improvement and quality service delivery amongst management.”

Financial Sustainability Review Implementation – Key Actions

A number of activities relevant to the four priority findings have commenced in order to influence the 2014/2015 budget process and beyond.

Strategic Asset Management

Funding for maintenance of ageing infrastructure is a major cost pressure for Councils nationally. For Council to address this issue there needs to be a review of the existing approach with an emphasis on a longer term perspective.

This will involve determining what assets are required to sustain the defined range and level of service provision and explore opportunities to rationalise assets holdings over the medium to long term. Refer CT Management commentary on potential asset sales.

Council also needs to reassess the level of asset renewal investment versus new asset creation in order to reduce the renewal gap which is currently estimated at $19m.

Service Planning

As development and growth will continue to occur within the municipality so will the community demand for services. These growth issues are important and significant from a financial, strategic and resource management perspective. A detailed service planning project will enable Council to make meaningful decisions about the level of operating costs which are sustainable and the range and level of services it wishes to provide to the community. Armed with this information Council will be able to consult with the community and determine where their priorities are with respect to the services provided.

The completion of service plans will not only update Council’s 10 year financial plan, but they will enable comparative choices to be made about the range and levels of services provided by Council and their associated operating costs.

The timeframe for completion of the Service Planning Project is approximately 4 to 6 months.

Long Term Financial Planning, Budget Process and Project Management

While Council currently has a 10 year financial plan, CT Management recommends its revision based on integrating the outcomes of the proposed service planning reviews and strategic asset management review which encapsulates deliberations on renewal versus new and the potential disposal of surplus assets etc. Savings arising from these reviews will enable redirection of funds to meet the increasing demand for services required by the community.

CT Management also recommends a review of the community priorities funding program of $7.2m, to include Council policy and guidelines that manage the allocation of budget expenditure with a consistent approach that generates high levels of community engagement.

In terms of Council’s budget process CT Management has recommended further refinement particularly in the areas of project development, capital evaluation and whole of life costing and community priorities. From a project development perspective, roles and responsibilities need to be clarified in respect to the various stages of a project e.g. planning, development and delivery of capital works, with the objective of realising savings.

In terms of capital evaluation CT Management has recommended enhancements to the concept and business case preparation with the view to obtaining more accurate whole of life costing of proposed projects, including ongoing maintenance obligations.

A review of the project development process will also be undertaken by relevant Officers.

Procurement

While the review confirmed that Council has well developed policies and processes necessary to carry out best practice procurement. CT Management recommended the development of an organisation wide procurement strategy that aligns with City Plan objectives. It also recommended introduction of best and final offers with short listed tenderers, for some larger projects.


Environmental Implications

There are no environment implications associated with the review. Any decision to achieve one off savings or recurrent reductions will need to assess environmental impacts.


Financial Implications

The Financial Sustainability Review determined that Council is a finically sustainable organisation that needs to make strategic choices if the current expenditure requirements are to be maintained.

The review implementation will have a substantial impact on Council’s medium to long term financial planning process.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

Any review and or change in the level of service provision will need to be cognisant of statutory or regulatory requirements.


Alignment to City Plan

How we do business.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No officer involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest.


Risk Assessment

All services are currently risk assessed.


Social Considerations

Any change to service levels will take into consideration the social implications of any proposed changes.


Human Rights Charter

The service level reviews will consider the main principles of equity, fairness, dignity and respect.


Consultation and Communication

All staff have been advised of the findings of the Financial Sustainability Review and a copy of the Public Report will be made available to the public.

The implementation of the key actions emanating from the review will involve Staff, Council and Public consultation as required.


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8. Geelong Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017

Portfolio:

Community Development – Cr Fisher

Source:

Community Services - Aged and Disability Services

General Manager:

Jenny McMahon

Index Reference:

Subject: Municipal Public Health Plan

Purpose

The purpose of this report is for Council to formally adopt the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 (see Appendix 1) for submission to the Minister for Health by the due date of 31 October 2013.


Summary

Cr Fisher moved, Cr Irvine seconded -

That Council adopt Health the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 and forward to the Minister for Health.


Carried.


Background

The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan builds on the work of previous Council health and wellbeing plans; most recently the 2009-2013 Geelong Health and Wellbeing Plan and fulfils the requirements of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008.

Council, at its meeting on 27 August 2013, approved the draft Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 being released for public comment for a period of four weeks. The public comment period closed on 25 September 2013.


Discussion

The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 aligns with:

The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 is a plan of action for the next four years as well as demonstrating how the Council already works to improve health and wellbeing.

The plan operates on three levels:

  1. Guiding principles for health and wellbeing planning – the core values and philosophy that have been used to develop this plan and will guide future decisions.

  2. Improving how we do business in health and wellbeing – actions designed to improve Council’s ability to address local health and wellbeing needs.

  3. Health and wellbeing priorities – the key health behaviours Council aims to address in partnership with the community and stakeholders. These are:

    1. Accessible and nutritious food;

    2. Physical activity and active communities;

    3. Social inclusion and community connectedness;

    4. Reducing harm from alcohol, drugs and problem gambling;

    5. Reducing tobacco use.

An Action Guide has been developed for each health and wellbeing priority and the ‘improving how we do business’ section of the plan.

Actions will become part of departmental business plans and will be reported to Council on an annual basis to satisfy the legislative requirement regarding the ongoing monitoring and review of the plan.

During the public comment period, copies of the draft plan were made available at all City of Greater Geelong Customer Service Centres and via Geelong Australia website.

One submission was received during this period from Leisure Networks Chief Executive Officer, Libby Mears, who offered her congratulations and articulated Leisure Networks commitment to “working in partnership at a strategic and operational level in community health promotion initiatives with the City of Greater Geelong”. No changes were requested.

With the conclusion of the public comment period, it is recommended that Council formally adopt the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017. Once adopted by Council the plan is required to be submitted to the Minister for Health by the 31 October 2013 to meet the requirements of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008.


Environmental Implications

The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 has been developed to meet the requirements of the Climate Change Act 2010, which is in accordance with the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008.

There are a number of actions contained within Council’s Climate Adaptation Strategy that will have significant implications for the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017, particularly in relation to vulnerable communities.


Financial Implications

Any financial implications arising from the Geelong Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan will be referred for consideration to future budgets.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 fulfils the requirement of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008. That is, all Victorian Councils prepare and adopt a Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan within 12 months of Council elections.

The plan also meets the requirements of the Climate Change Act 2010 by having ‘regard to climate change’.

Other Acts and regulations that are implicated in the plan include the Food Act 1984 and the Tobacco Act 1987 (see page 8 of the Plan for a more comprehensive list).


Alignment to City Plan

The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 is aligned to City Plan 2013-2017 in that its vision mirrors that of the Community Wellbeing strategic direction and all actions seek to address the City Plan’s three strategic priorities for Community Wellbeing: Healthy Lifestyles, Healthy Environments and Connected, Creative and Strong Communities.

A diagram articulating how the plan aligns both with City Plan and other strategies and plans that guide the work of Council in health and wellbeing is contained on page 12 of the Plan.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No officer involved in the preparation of this report has any direct or indirect interest relative to the advice provided in the report.


Risk Assessment

Beyond the need to meet the statutory requirements of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 and the Climate Change Act 2010, the City of Greater Geelong has a funded requirement to VicHealth through the BE ACTIVE initiative to ensure that the VicHealth Physical Activity Framework has been considered in the development of the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan.


Social Considerations

The purpose of the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 is to demonstrate how the Council will work to improve the health and wellbeing of the local community over the next four years. A major approach to helping the organisation deliver on its Community Wellbeing priorities as outlined in City Plan is to work on the social determinants of health (as discussed on page 7 of the Plan).


Human Rights Charter

The guiding principles section of the plan articulates the core values and philosophy that have underpinned the development of the plan and intended to guide the work of Council in all areas. It captures the need to explicitly consider issues relating to diversity, equity and community participation and empowerment.


Consultation and Communication

The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 will be produced into a full version and a summary version suitable for community use and made available via the Geelong Australia website and at Customer Service Centres by the end of November.

During the public exhibition period, copies of the draft plan were made available at all City of Greater Geelong Customer Service Centres and online, with the consultation period then being promoted in the following ways:


[Back to List]

9. Annual Report 2012-2013

Portfolio:

Governance - Cr Harwood (Acting Mayor)
Finance – Cr S Kontelj

Source:

Corporate Services - Corporate Strategy

General Manager:

Jeff Wall

Index Reference:

Subject: Corporate Strategy Annual Reports


Purpose

The Annual Report 2012-2013 was submitted to the Minister for Local Government as per the requirement of the Local Government Act 1989, Section 131.

As per the Local Government Act 1989, the purpose of this report is for the Council to receive the Annual Report 2012-2013.


Summary

Cr S Kontelj moved, Cr E Kontelj seconded -

That Council receives the 2012-2013 Annual Report (Appendix 1) in accordance with Section 131 of the Local Government Act 1989.

Carried.


Background

Council approved “in principle” the Financial Statement of Accounts, Standard Statement and Performance Statements and authorised the signing of the Accounts subject to Auditor General requirements on 27 August 2013.

The Auditor-General has signed the accounts and issued his report stating that the accounts fairly present the financial position of the Council and comply with accounting requirements.

A copy of the Annual Report together with the Audited Performance Standard Statements and Financial Statements was provided to the Minister for Local Government on 27 September 2013.

Under Section 134 of the Local Government Act 1989, the Council must consider the annual report at a meeting of Council as soon as practicable after the Annual Report has been sent to the Minister.


Discussion

The Annual Report is a comprehensive review of highlights and achievements for 2012-2013 financial year.

Under the Local Government Act the Council is required to give public notice when the Annual Report is available for public inspection and is also required to provide 14 days notice of when it will be considered at a Council Meeting.

On Saturday, 28 September 2013 Council gave public notice that:

  1. Council had prepared the Annual Report for the financial year to 30 June 2013 and that copies containing the following information contained within the Annual Report were available from the Council’s website and Customer Service Centres:

  2. The Annual Report, including the Performance and Financial and Standard Statements, is to be received at the Council meeting to be held on Tuesday, 22 October 2013 commencing at 7:00 p.m.


Environmental Implications

The Annual Report addresses the City’s achievements in the Sustainable Built and natural Environment strategic direction and reports on actions undertaken in 2012-2013 and progress indicators.


Financial Implications

The Annual Report includes a copy of the City’s Audited “Standard Statements” and “Financial Statements” that has been the subject of a previous report to Council.

No impact to budget.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

The recommendation and procedures outlined in this report conform to the requirements of the Local Government Act and Regulations.

Council has given public notice that the Annual Report 2012-2013 is available for public inspection and provided 14 days notice of a meeting to consider the report.


Alignment to City Plan

City Plan 2009-2013 (20121-2013 Update) is the guiding document for the 2012-2013 Annual Report. The Annual Report provides and update on the achievements under the Community Wellbeing, Growing the Economy and Sustainable Built and natural Environment strategic directions.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

There are no direct or indirect interests.


Risk Assessment

There are no identified risks arising from this report.


Social Considerations

The Annual Report provides a report to the community on the Actions and Initiatives undertaken during the reporting period.

In addition to the Statutory Financial Reporting, the Annual Report provides information to the community on how the resources of the City have been allocated between the Social, Environment and Economic needs of the community.

This information is presented in the City’s adopted Planning Framework of the three strategic directions being:

  1. Community Wellbeing

  2. Growing the Economy

  3. Sustainable Built and Natural Environment


Human Rights Charter

The 2012-2013 Annual Report will be made available to the community in a number of formats satisfying accessibility requirements:

All images in the final design version that feature staff or members of the community have had photo releases signed.


Consultation and Communication

The Council’s Annual Report 2012-2013 is a primary communication document that has been made available for public inspection in draft form.

A printed publication is currently being prepared and will be distributed to leaders within the community.

A copy of the report will also be accessible via the City’s internet site and at Council’s Customer Service Centres.


[Back to List]

10. Council Policies Review

Portfolio:

Governance - Cr Harwood (Acting Mayor)

Source:

Corporate Services - Administration and Governance

General Manager:

Jeff Wall

Index Reference:

Subject - Policy Development

Purpose

To adopt various changes to the Councillor Code of Conduct and the Councillors’ Facilities and Expenses Policy, and to revoke the Information Technology Policy.


Summary

Cr Heagney moved, Cr Irvine seconded -

That Council:

  1. Endorse the amended Code of Conduct Policy – CPL40.7 and Councillors’ Expenses and Facilities Policy – CPL45.2.

  2. Revoke the Information Technology Council Policy – CPL560.1.


Carried.


Background

In accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1989, a newly elected Council must review the Councillor Code of Conduct within 12 months of a general election. In addition, the Councillors’ Expenses and Facilities Policy has been updated and the Information Technology Policy is proposed to be revoked as a Council Policy.


Discussion

Councillor Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct governs working relationships. The changes outline the roles and responsibilities of the Directly Elected Mayor and Deputy Mayor and also amend the dispute resolution process. The following provides a summary of the content of the Code:

  1. Introduction – a commitment to good governance, discharging responsibilities and working together.

  2. Conduct Principles – community expectations and principles to be observed as specified by the Act.

  3. Values and behaviours – a general statement regarding expected behaviour.

  4. Roles & Responsibilities - relationships with the community, Council staff, and also within the group of elected members.

  5. Dispute resolution – a mechanism to address any breaches of the Code.

  6. Sanctions – internal sanctions for minor breaches and also an avenue for independent review of allegations of serious misconduct.

The Code specifically addresses the Councillor Conduct Principles, as set out in s76C(3) of the Local Government Act 1989. The Code articulates the values and behaviours expected of Councillors, along with the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillors, the Chief Executive Officer and staff. It also includes a robust dispute resolution process.


Councillors’ Expenses and Facilities

The Councillors’ Expenses and Facilities Policy has been amended to incorporate the relevant provisions of the City of Greater Geelong Act 1983. There are further amendments to the Meetings, Conference and Other Attendances section which govern attendances and impose a $3,500 annual limit. The annual limit is proposed to be increased in accordance with any movement in the General Consumer Price Index. The amendments also recognise the role of the Mayor in representing Council at various meetings and functions, and exclude such attendances from the $3,500 annual limit.

Functions or training arranged by the MAV, VLGA, ALGA, ALGWA, State, Federal or Local Government Authorities will not be subject to the $3,500 limit. However, such attendances will be determined by the Mayor or Chief Executive Officer. The Outward Mail section clarifies the use of Council letterhead, which must not be used to express the personal views of any Councillor, or for electioneering purposes.

The policy also extends Council’s existing Study Leave Policy to Councillors in order to provide support which is consistent with that provided to Council staff, up to an annual limit of $2,000.


Information Technology

The existing Information Technology Policy supports the achievement of Council’s objectives in a secure computing and communications environment. It is considered that this Policy would be better defined as a Management Policy and be subject to the approval of the CEO. Accordingly, this report revokes the Council Policy, the objectives of which have been incorporated in a Management Policy.


Environmental Implications

Not applicable.


Financial Implications

Payment of councillor expenses and the costs of providing support and resources form part of the annual budget review.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

The policy review complies with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1989 and forms part of the governance framework established by Council.


Alignment to City Plan

In accordance with Council’s strategic objective ‘How We Do Business’, Council has provided a transparent process for the review of these Council Policies.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No officer involved in the preparation of this report has an interest in relation to the information provided.


Risk Assessment

Updating and adopting these policies is in accordance with good governance principles and aims to mitigate Council and Councillor’s exposure to reputational risk.


Social Considerations

Councillors are elected to represent and serve their community. Good governance practices provide the community with confidence in Council leadership by providing transparency and accountability in the decision-making processes and in Council’s ability to ensure good corporate governance within the municipality.


Human Rights Charter

All Human Rights have been considered as part of the drafting process of this report, none of which apply.


Consultation and Communication

Council policies are published on Council’s CityWeb and Geelong Australia websites.


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11. Municipal Association State Council

Portfolio:

Governance - Cr Harwood, Acting Mayor

Source:

Corporate Services - Administration & Governance

General Manager:

Jeff Wall

Index Reference:

Subject: Municipal Association of Victoria

Purpose

To approve Council’s proposed Motion for the upcoming Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council Meeting.


Summary

Cr Heagney moved, Cr Ansett seconded -

That Council approve the proposed Motion set out in Appendix 1 for submission to the MAV State Council Meeting on 25 October 2013.


Carried.


Background

At the MAV State Council Meeting, there is an opportunity for Councils to submit motions for consideration. If supported, the motions form part of the policy direction of the Association. The MAV requested input from Councils, with a closing date of 8 October 2013.


Discussion

Motions must be of state-wide significance to Local Government and must be accompanied by background information which provides the rationale behind the motion.


Environmental Implications

Nil.


Financial Implications

There are no financial implications in presenting motions to the MAV State Council. However, if some of the proposals achieve success, financial benefits may result.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

If supported by the MAV State Council, the issues raised by Council will have the backing of the MAV, the role of which includes lobbying other levels of government to promote the views of Local Government.


Alignment to City Plan

In accordance with Council’s strategic objective ‘How We Do Business’, Council has taken up the opportunity to advocate for improvement to the administration of the Domestic Animal Act1994 via its proposed Motion.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No officers involved in the preparation of this report have any direct or indirect interest in the matter.


Risk Assessment

There are no risks associated with submitting the proposed Motion to the MAV State Council.


Social Considerations

Nil.


Human Rights Charter

The preparation of this report included a consideration of all Human Rights, none of which apply.


Consultation and Communication

Council’s proposed Motion will be canvassed with other Councils through State Council, and if endorsed, will be pursued with the State or Federal Government by the MAV.


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12. Bio Science Meetings USA

Portfolio:

Enterprise Geelong - Cr Harwood

Source:

Enterprise Geelong

Executive Director:

Russell Walker

Index Reference:

Subject Biotech Industry

Purpose

To seek Council approval for the Acting Mayor, Cr Harwood, to participate in a delegation to Missouri and Georgia, USA in November 2013.


Summary

Cr Heagney moved, Cr E Kontelj seconded -

That Council having regard to the Councillors’ Expenses and Facilities Policy authorise the Acting Mayor, Cr Harwood to:

  1. attend Bio Science meetings, Kansas. USA;

  2. attend Bio Science Economic Development meetings in Atlanta and Athens, Georgia, USA;

  3. visit the Centre for Diseases Control, Atlanta, USA;

  4. explore opportunities of a Sister City relationship with Athens-Clark County, Atlanta, Georgia. USA.

Carried Unanimously.


Division Requested:

For: Crs Ansett, Ellis, Farrell, Fisher, Harwood, Heagney, Irvine, E Kontelj, S Kontelj

Against: Nil.


Background

Previous delegations to North Carolina and attendance at the World Bio Science conference in Atlanta Georgia USA provided extensive information in relation to the importance of bio science developments within the world and the opportunities for the Geelong region.

A number of world leading bio science countries and industries met with and some of those relationships remain today.

The visit to Atlanta greatly assisted in strengthening Bio Geelong and Council’s commitment to bio science as a future industry. This is reflected in the City’s partnership with AAHL, CSIRO, Deakin University and the realisation of the Geelong Centre for Emerging Infectious Disease at Barwon Health.

The invitation to return to Atlanta Georgia in November 2013 again strengthens the City’s commitment to the bio science industry and willingness to partner with other regions offering genuine commercial development opportunity.

The Mayor of Athens Clarke County, Georgia, Nancy Denson has also put forward a proposal to consider a sister city relationship with the City of Greater Geelong.


Discussion

The delegation is to consist of Professor Martyn Jeggo, Director, Geelong Centre for Emerging and Infectious Disease; Dr. Julie-Anne White, CEO, Bio Geelong and Dr John Lowenthal, CSIRO. The purpose of the meeting is to build relationships with a view to engaging in the transfer of personnel and knowledge in the bio science industry sector. This represents a great opportunity for the Geelong region as Atlanta is a world renowned region for bio science and advanced manufacturing.

This invitation to return to Atlanta Georgia in November 2013 again strengthens COGG’s existing commitment to the bio science industry and willingness to partner with other regions offering genuine development opportunity.

There is an offer from Mayor Nancy Denson of Athens Clarke County, Georgia, to consider a sister city relationship with Athens Clarke County. The City Of Greater Geelong does not actually have any formal international “Sister City” relationships. The City does have a “Friendship City” relationship with Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, China that commenced in 1991 with the previous Shire of Corio. There has been no tangible interaction since amalgamation.

The second ”Friendship City” relationship is with Izumiotsu City, Osaka, Japan which commenced in 1990 as a result of the City having a strong manufacturing sector in woollen blankets. Recent interaction with the Osaka community is via the Great Ocean Road marathon which is completed in May each year. While there is no economic interaction, winners of the event travel to the respective countries to compete in the Marathon.

The offer of forming a genuine “Sister City” relationship with Athens Clarke County, Georgia, has considerable merit. There is genuine economic and social benefit to be gained as both cities are heavily engaged in the bio science sector and both looking to advance knowledge and opportunity to realise commercial growth. This relationship has great potential to build both cities profiles within the bio science industry and exploit opportunities that may be presented in various commercial fields.

A copy of the proposed members of the delegation and who they will be meeting with in the USA along with expected outcomes can be found in Attachment 1.


Environmental Implications

There are no identified environmental implications arising from this activity.


Financial Implications

The cost of the Mayor attending the delegation would be approximately $5,300.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

Attendance is governed by the Councillor Expenses and Facilities policy.


Alignment to City Plan

This proposal aligns with City Plan’s Growing the Economy.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No officer in the preparation of this report had a direct or indirect interest.


Risk Assessment

There are no identified risks arising from this report.


Social Considerations

This delegation is aimed at further promoting and enhancing Geelong’s Biotechnology industry which will lead to enhanced social and economic outcomes for Geelong with potential for new job creation and sustainable economic growth.


Human Rights Charter

Biotechnology is intended to improve the quality of human life.


Consultation and Communication

Outcomes of the USA delegation will be the subject of a report to Council.



Attachment 1 Page 1

BACKGROUND ON THE PROPOSED DELEGATION PARTICIPANTS FROM GEELONG

Professor Martyn Jeggo

Australian Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL)

(Former AAHL Director and GCEID Representative)


Cr Bruce Harwood

Acting Mayor, Greater Geelong City Council

Chairman, BioGeelong


Dr Julie-Anne White

CEO Bio Geelong.


Mr John Lownethal

Theme Leader, One Health. Biosecurity Flagship. CSIRO AAHL


Attachment 1 Page 2

The Delegation will meet with the following in the USA:


The University of Georgia:

Comments from Ralph Tripp:

"We at the University of Georgia (UGA) have a Venture Labs program where new companies are formed from UGA-based research... Other Georgia universities have similar programs and entities. Much of this is driven by the Georgia Research Alliance (GRA).

“In my discussions with folks I know who are CEO/CSOs and several have expressed interest to know more about the padsite and availability in Geelong.”

Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia:

Athens-Clarke County:

Potential benefits and opportunities:


Attachment 1 Page 3

Opportunities for potential Sister City relationship between Geelong and Athens (Georgia, Atlanta):


[Back to List]

13. General Signage (Including Electoral Advertising Signs) on Road Reserves and Council Land

Portfolio:

Governance – Cr Harwood

Source:

Community Services / Health and Local Laws

General Manager:

Jenny McMahon

Index Reference:

Community Relations / Signage

Purpose

To amend Council’s existing Policy on Electoral Advertising signs on Road Reserves and Council Land to ensure consistency with the Road Management Act 2004


Summary

Cr Fisher moved, Cr E Kontelj seconded -

That Council amend and adopt the Electoral Advertisement Signs on Road Reserves and Council Land Policy, to be re-titled ‘Placement of General Signage (Including Electoral Advertising Signs) on Road Reserves and Council Land Policy’.


Carried.


Background

Council’s current controls relating to the placement of electoral advertising on road reserves and Council land rests under Council’s General Local Law 2005.

The current controls have been reviewed following the recent Federal election campaign.

During past electoral events, Council officers have been able to gain voluntary compliance to issues regarding the placement of electoral advertising signs, particularly on Council land.

However, it is important that appropriate controls are in place in the event voluntary compliance is unable to be achieved.


Discussion

Whilst the existing provision under Council General Local Law covers general matters relating to the display of ‘advertising signs’, the display of electoral advertising signs falls outside the scope, definitions and intent of the General Local Law 2005.

To ensure Council is able to continue to protect community safety and amenity it is recommended that Council implement Section 66 and 67 of the Road Safety Management Act 2004, as the most appropriate legislation to deal with such matters. The Road Safety Management Act 2004 which makes it an offence for “ a person without the written consent of the relevant coordinating road authority to – place any structure, device or hoarding for the exhibition of an advertisement or place any advertisement for exhibition on or over a road, or, place any sign or bill on or over a road or on a pole , bus shelter, traffic sign, tree or other object or infrastructure on a road reserve.”.

In accordance with this Act, dual authority exists whereby Council and Vicroads are the nominated coordinating road authorities for those roads designated under Section 36 and 37 of the Act. Council is not responsible for processing applications or enforcing activities on roads that are controlled by Vicroads.

In assessing any application to display signage, including electoral signage, consideration needs to be given towards the objectives of the Act, that being community safety and protection to all users of roads and road reserves for which Council is responsible. The Road Management Act includes footpaths, service roads, pathways and other ancillary areas such as rest stops, reserves, look outs, emergency stopping areas etc

Furthermore the Road Management Act 2004 gives the authorised officer the power to instruct the person to remove any structure, devise, hoarding, advertisement, sign or bill, and should the person fail to do so the Act goes on to empower the authorised officer to either, remove and sell the structure, devise, hoarding, advertisement, sign or bill and use the proceeds of the sale to offset the cost of any expenses in connection to the removal or obliterate the structure, devise, hoarding, advertisement, sign or bill.

On the spot penalties for both offences are 3 penalty units ($344.00). The maximum penalty in the event of the matter proceeding to the Magistrates Court is 10 penalty units ($1,444.00) apply to both offences.

In the case of signs on Councils footpaths, both the Road Management Act and Councils General Local Law apply as ‘roads’ are defined under the Road Management Act to include footpaths but not vice versa. However the scope and intent of the signage provisions of the General Local Law (supported by the Footpath Trading and Activity Policy) are limited to enabling businesses to utilise a portion of council land immediately in front of the business to promote and attract customers into that business premises. It is not aimed at attracting gatherings, congregations that are not business related that may impede, obstruct or limit the pedestrian thoroughfare and/or create other distractions/disturbances.

It is recommended that within its policy, Council place particular emphasis on considerations that protect the safety and local amenity of the community. As a result, a permit or consent under the Road Management Act would not be issued save and except for matters that provide and promote for public safety and well being. The placement of any sign on Council land or roads is assessed with respect to detrimental impact against one or more of the following;

Applications that fail to satisfy Council’ authorised officers in regards to the abovementioned criteria will not be approved.


Environmental Implications

There are no environmental implications associated with the recommendations and implementations of this report


Financial Implications

There are no financial implications associated with the recommendations and implementation of this report.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

The content of this report and subsequent recommendation ensures that the appropriate legislation is used to regulate such activities as supported by Councils Electoral Advertising Signs on Road Reserves and Council Land Policy.


Alignment to City Plan

The content of this report and recommendation is consistent in its alignment with the City Plan.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

There are no conflicts of interest in the preparation of this report and recommendations.


Risk Assessment

In adopting this report and its recommendations enables Council to mitigate potential risks in regards to public safety, in particular where the placement advertising signs on roads creates a sighting and visual; distraction to motorists and pedestrians.


Social Considerations

It is important that Council maintains local amenity and ensures the safety of the local community.


Human Rights Charter

Consideration has been given in regards to the human rights charter and in particular the rights of a person to make application under the Road Management Act 2005 to place any structure, device or hoarding for the exhibition of an advertisement or place any advertisement for exhibition on or over a road, or, place any sign or bill on or over a road or on a pole, bus shelter, traffic sign, tree or other object or infrastructure on a road reserve. In the context of the Road Management Act, Council’s Policy provides circumstances where a permit or consent may or may not be granted subject to a range of safety and amenity criteria.


Consultation and Communication

The primary stakeholders effected by this report are candidates who as part of their campaign for election to Local, State or Federal politics. Upon this report and the recommendations being adopted, the current pre election campaign literature will be updated to reflect the requirements of the Road Management Act.


[Back to List]

14. Amendment C247 and Planning Permit 366/2011: 12-20 Fairbairn Drive, Corio - Adoption

Portfolio:

Planning – Cr Macdonald

Source:

Economic Development, Planning and Tourism – Strategic Implementation

General Manager:

Peter Bettess

Index Reference:

Application: Amendment C247 & PP366/2011
Subject: Council Reports 2013

Purpose

This report responds to submissions to Amendment C247 and recommends adoption of the Amendment.


Summary

Cr Fisher moved, Cr Ansett seconded -

That Council:

  1. adopts Amendment C247 in the form as outlined in Appendix 3 of this report;

  2. submits the adopted Amendment with the prescribed information to the Minister for Planning requesting approval;

  3. recommend to the Minister that a Permit be granted pursuant to Section 96G of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Planning Permit No. 366/2011 is contained in Appendix 4); and

  4. sign and seal a Section 173 Agreement accompanying the Amendment to ensure notification to the Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005 for any proposed ‘sensitive’ uses on the site.

Carried.


Background

Amendment C247 and Planning Permit 366/2011 has been prepared by the Greater Geelong City Council which is the planning authority for this Amendment. The Amendment was initiated by Spiire Australia on behalf of Ceremari Pty Ltd.

The 0.8 hectare site (12-20 Fairbairn Drive, Corio) is vacant residential land mainly used as an informal pedestrian access to the Corio ALDI store by nearby residents. An aerial map of the area is shown in Appendix 1.

The Planning Scheme Amendment proposes to rezone the land from the Residential 1 Zone to the Commercial 1 Zone (C1Z). Since the time of exhibition of the Amendment, the Minister for Planning has implemented new zones in the Victoria Planning Provisions. As a consequence, the C1Z has replaced the former Business 1 Zone.

The rezoning necessitates an amendment to the Retail Centre Hierarchy Map and Table at Clause 21.07-8 of the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme to show a new Rosewall Neighbourhood Activity Centre. Amendment will also be made to Clause 52.28-3 to prohibit the installation or use of gaming machines on the site.

The planning permit will allow the construction of the Neighbourhood Shopping Centre generally in accordance with the submitted plans, as well as partial dispensation from car parking and loading requirements, and associated signage. The exhibited development plan is shown in Appendix 2.

The Shopping Centre will contain 3,267 sq m gross floor area, comprising a major tenant of 1,020 sq m of leasable floor area and 11 smaller tenancies totalling 1,950 sq m leasable floor area. Other features of the single storey buildings include;

Council resolved to exhibit the Amendment at its 13 November 2012 meeting. The report that accompanied the Council resolution discussed the strategic basis for the rezoning and concluded that there is sufficient planning policy support.

The report identified the Corio Norlane Structure Plan as an adopted Council policy that supports rezoning the land for commercial use. The Structure Plan is currently with the Minister for Planning awaiting implementation into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme via a new local strategy in the Municipal Strategic Statement. In the meantime, the Planning Panel that heard submissions to Amendment C268 for a Masters Store on Bacchus Marsh Road in Corio has referred to the Structure Plan as “a seriously entertained document” requiring consideration.

Authorisation (A02443) for this Amendment was received from the Minister for Planning on 13 June 2013. Exhibition of Amendment C247 and Planning Permit 366/2011 took place between 18 July 2013 and 19 August 2013 with notices in local newspapers and the Government Gazette. Notice of the Amendment was sent to relevant Ministers under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and to surrounding residents and nearby commercial property owners.

It is noted that the Commercial 1 Zone (C1Z) has replaced the Business 1 Zone in the Victoria Planning Provisions following exhibition of the Amendment. The purpose of the C1Z includes creating vibrant mixed use commercial centres for retail, office, business, entertainment and community uses.

Submissions were received from VicRoads and Earth Resources Regulation Victoria (ERRV). Because the submissions either did not object to the Amendment, or have been mutually resolved, the Amendment does not need to be heard by an Independent Planning Panel.

One submission was received from a local Rosewall resident who supported the proposal, saying it will enhance the whole area.

Council is now able to adopt the Amendment and forward it to the Minister for Planning seeking approval. The Amendment to be adopted is in Appendix 3.

The Planning Permit recommended to be issued is in Appendix 4.

The VicRoads and ERRV submissions are addressed as follows:-


VicRoads

VicRoads did not object however said Council should consider including within the ‘draft’ planning permit conditions, the provision of an analysis of the Princes Highway – Broderick Road intersection, to ensure the intersection will not be adversely affected by the proposed changes in land use.

Following further discussions between Council, Spiire and VicRoads, the roads authority is now satisfied that the proposed development will have no adverse effects on the signalised intersection. No additional permit conditions are required.


Earth Resources Regulation Victoria (ERRV)

ERRV of the Department of State Development, Business and Innovation (DSDBI) has submitted that the site is located approximately 275 metres from a high-pressure gas pipeline (PL181). ERRV state that “in consultation with Energy Safe Victoria it is advised that Sensitive uses are sited in excess of 347m from the pipeline”.

The submission however does not say that the Amendment land cannot be developed as planned.

The regulator has concerns regarding some of the more ‘sensitive’ uses that would be permitted under the proposed Commercial 1 Zone. In response, the proponent sought legal advice from Harwood Andrews. Harwood Andrews has advised that: “the Department’s concerns regarding sensitive ‘as of right’ uses under the Commercial 1 Zone can be readily addressed through a voluntary section 173 agreement registered on the land subject to the Amendment”.

This advice was passed on to ERRV, who provided a supplementary submission, dated 9 September 2013. Through consultation with Energy Safe Victoria, ERRV confirm that the proposed Section 173 Agreement would provide an appropriate mechanism to ensure ‘sensitive’ uses are assessed by DSDBI.

The supplementary submission then clarified the ‘as of right’ uses that DSDBI consider as ‘sensitive’ in the Commercial 1 Zone. These are: Child care centre; Education centre; and Accommodation (specifically, Group accommodation, Residential village, Retirement village and an Aged care facility). The submission also directs that the appropriate reference for notification is the Minister administering the Pipelines Act 2005.

Council officers support this approach and recommend that Council sign and seal a Section 173 Agreement for registration on title as part of this Amendment.


Environmental Implications

The site is currently vacant and in a state of disrepair. There is no native vegetation present. The development will significantly improve the functionality of the site, better manage and treat stormwater runoff and establish a landscaped setting.


Financial Implications

The development will not result in any financial implications for Council, other than the usual resources required to process the amendment and planning permit.

Costs associated with preparing and registering the proposed Section 173 Agreement will be paid by the proponent.


Policy/Legal/Statutory Implications

The Amendment is considered to be consistent with Clause 11.02-2 Activity centre planning and Clause 17.01.1 Business of the State Planning Policy Framework by making provision for a conveniently located neighbourhood activity centre to serve the needs of Geelong northern suburb residents.

The rezoning and development, together with the established ALDI Store, will entrench the site as a genuine neighbourhood centre consistent with the Geelong Retail Strategy.

Clause 22.03 of the Local Planning Policy Framework outlines a set of criteria against which applications for new retail floor space must be assessed, including out-of-centre proposals. It is considered that the proposal responds appropriately to this criteria, in that it is consistent with the urban context of the area, will not significantly impact on local amenity and will result in a net community benefit.


Alignment to City Plan

The Amendment supports the Growing our Economy strategic direction of City Plan.

The development will provide investment and jobs during the construction phase, and opportunities for new enterprises and services to establish at the centre when completed.


Officer Direct or Indirect Interest

No Council officer involved in the report has any direct or indirect interest, in accordance with section 80(C) of the local Government Act.


Risk Assessment

There are no notable risks associated with implementing the recommendations contained in this report.


Social Considerations

The Amendment will result in an overall net community benefit by improving the retail and service offer to local residents, and consolidating the new outlets with the established ALDI Store to create a true neighbourhood activity centre.

The development will significantly improve the visual amenity of the immediate area and provide sort after investment and job opportunities for a community in need of urban renewal.


Human Rights Charter

The Amendment will not impact on any basic rights, freedoms and responsibilities as set out in the Charter. Planning legislation ensures an open community consultation process occurs, enabling people to freely express their views and if necessary obtain a fair hearing before an Independent Panel.


Consultation and Communication

The Amendment was exhibited in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987, including a notice in City News, letters to surrounding land owners and residents, and a hard copy of the Amendment documents at the Customer Service Centre in Corio Village Shopping Centre.

The applicant, landowner and submitters have been engaged by Council to resolve matters arising from the exhibition of the Amendment. The concerns of Earth Resources Regulation Victoria were formally addressed by the preparation of a Section 173 Agreement.


Appendix 1 - Aerial Map

Appendix 1 - Aerial Map

Appendix 2 - Exhibited Development Plan

Appendix 2 - Exhibited Development Plan

Appendix 3 – Amendment to be adopted

Planning and Environment Act 1987

GREATER GEELONG PLANNING SCHEME
AMENDMENT C247
INSTRUCTION SHEET

The planning authority for this amendment is the Greater Geelong City Council.

The Greater Geelong Planning Scheme is amended as follows:

Planning Scheme Maps

The Planning Scheme Maps are amended by a total of 1 attached map sheet.

Zoning Maps

  1. Replace Planning Scheme Map No. 26 in the form of the 1 attached map marked “Greater Geelong Planning Scheme, Amendment C247”.


Planning Scheme Ordinance

The Planning Scheme Ordinance is amended as follows:

  1. In Local Planning Policy Framework – replace Clause 21.07 with a new Clause 21.07 in the form of the attached document.

  2. In Particular Provisions – Clause 52.28, replace Schedule 52.28-3 with a new Schedule 52.28-3 in the form of the attached document.

End of document

Amendment C247 - Commercial 1 Zone

21.07

Economic development and employment
21.07-1 Key issues and influences
 

Economic Role and Function

Geelong is the largest regional city in Victoria and the primary service and employment hub for the G21 Geelong Region Alliance.

The City’s infrastructure base includes Avalon Airport, the Geelong Port and major road and rail connections to Metropolitan Melbourne and Victoria’s western regions.

The provision of high quality living, working and recreational environments is critical to attracting and retaining highly skilled people and the businesses in which they work.

Industry

There is a need to provide support for ongoing employment and economic development in the Geelong region.

There is a need to provide a diverse range of appropriately located, well serviced industrial land which meets the needs of a range of industry types and minimises land use conflicts.

Traditional manufacturing industries will continue to be key economic and employment drivers in the municipality, however at the same time the City’s economy will need to focus on emerging industry sectors that underpin economic development, prosperity and employment growth in the new economy.

The changing nature of industrial development means that most industrial development now requires high amenity land that offers a high quality environment for workers and visitors.

There is a need to support industry through the maintenance and improvement of infrastructure including the road, rail, Avalon Airport, deep water port and associated facilities.

The extractive industry operations in the municipality make a vital contribution to the building and construction industries and are of major economic importance to the Geelong region.

Retail

The City of Greater Geelong Retail Activity Centre Hierarchy has been established to articulate the role and function fulfilled by centres of different sizes.

The retail hierarchy supports the primacy of Central Geelong as the focus of retail activity in the region.

There is a need to ensure a mix of commercial uses in activity centres.

The retail hierarchy will be enhanced through high quality urban design and improved pedestrian and public transport accessibility.

There is increasing development pressure for sites located away from activity centres, particularly for bulky goods and other large format retail development types that seek large sites with the capacity for significant car parking.

Greater Geelong exhibits a number of factors that contribute to an increased vulnerability to problem gambling which requires sensitive consideration of their location.

Rural

Agricultural production is modest, but locally important and economically significant for landowners.

There is potential for growth in agricultural production, particularly aquaculture.

Farming activity and the rural landscape are very significant elements to the identity, image and liveability of the City of Greater Geelong.

Farming and rural landscapes form non urban breaks and are a critical element to the settlement strategy, tourism function and lifestyle of the region.

Farming and agriculture are important and valued activities in the northern area of the municipality, particularly in the Anakie area.

Rural land in a number of urban fringe areas accommodates a range of uses and developments which require buffers from residential areas.

The City’s rural areas contain important environmental assets.

Tourism

Tourism is a key part of the economy of the Geelong region. The region includes major tourism destinations such as the Bellarine Peninsula and the coast.

Tourism activities in rural and coastal areas must be carefully managed so as not to compromise the natural environment and/or agricultural activities.

21.07-2 Industry
 

Objectives

  • To provide an adequate supply of appropriately located industrial land that meets the needs of different industries.

  • To direct different types of industrial development to appropriate locations.

  • To facilitate well designed and serviced industrial development that provides a high level of amenity for workers and visitors.

  • To minimise land use conflicts.

Strategies

  • Focus new industrial development around major transport routes and infrastructure assets.

  • Protect existing and designated future industrial areas from encroachment by incompatible land uses.

  • Support the development of a technology/business park in the South Western Armstrong Creek Employment Area.

  • Encourage regional and national scale industrial businesses to locate in the southern part of the Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct, and in appropriate locations in the future South Western Armstrong Creek Employment Area.

  • Direct industries which require substantial buffer zones from sensitive land uses to the core of the Industrial 2 Zone in the Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct.

  • Ensure all industrial development incorporates best practice water sensitive urban design and waste management practices.

  • Ensure all industrial development is appropriately serviced by road, drainage, water, sewerage and telecommunications infrastructure.

  • Ensure all industrial development provides high quality urban design and landscaping.

  • Ensure new development in the Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct is configured to minimise the individual and societal risk levels attached to the Shell LPG Storage Facility.

  • Protect identified stone resources for future extraction and potential extraction industry operations from the encroachment of incompatible land uses.

  • Direct materials recycling industries to locations that minimise land use conflicts and impacts on the amenity of surrounding areas.

  • Support the establishment of infrastructure that reduces costs for business and industry.

  • Support an integrated Geelong Transport Strategy, ensuring that industrial areas are well connected to each other and the rail/freeway network.

  • Provide sufficient industrial land to meet a range of industrial needs in Geelong, including small to medium sized industry.

  • Develop the North East Industrial Precinct as a vibrant, new generation, master planned industry and business park that will attract a wide range of users and respond to the changing needs of industry sectors over time, as a key business address in the region and Victoria.


21.07-3 Retail
  Objectives

  • To facilitate the development of vibrant and viable retail activity centres in accordance with the Geelong Retail Activity Centre Hierarchy included at Clause 21.07-8.

  • To ensure all major retail developments, and out of centre developments, provide a clear net community benefit.

  • To avoid the risk of exacerbating problem gambling.

Strategies

  • Ensure that new retail development is directed to activity centres and is consistent with the role and function described in the Retail Activity Centre Hierarchy included at Clause 21.07-8.

  • Ensure Central Geelong remains the primary retail activity centre in the G21 Region and the focus of retail activity in the G21 region.

  • Direct restricted retail (bulky goods) use and development to Central Geelong, the nominated homemaker precinct at Waurn Ponds, the Corio homemaker precinct subject to appropriate re-zoning and other homemaker precincts and activity centres as detailed in Clause 21.07-8.

  • Discourage restricted retail (bulky goods) development in industrial areas.

  • Encourage a mix of retail, office, cafes, entertainment, housing, education and community facilities to locate within activity centres.

  • Support accommodation uses above ground level floor space in activity centres subject to appropriate provision of parking and access requirements.

  • Require that applications for new centres establish the retail need for such use and development and demonstrate that there are no adverse impacts on the operation of the retail activity centres hierarchy.

  • Direct the location of gaming machines to venues that makes gaming accessible but not convenient as detailed in Clause 22.57.


21.07-4 Economic growth sectors
  Objective

  • To facilitate development in the City’s strategic economic growth sectors.

Strategies

  • Support industry development in the following strategic growth sectors:

  • Knowledge, Innovation and Research.

  • Advanced Manufacturing.

  • Health.

  • Tourism.

  • Small, Micro and Home Based Business.

  • Food and Horticulture.

  • Support the development of the Geelong Technology Precinct located at the Deakin University Waurn Ponds campus, particularly biotechnology industry.

  • Support the development of seafood and aquaculture industries in appropriate locations, particularly in North Geelong, Portarlington and Avalon.

  • Support the development of health and medical industries, particularly in the Medical Health Cluster in central Geelong (as identified on the Central Geelong Structure Plan Map at Clause 21.09), and around the Deakin University campus at Waurn Ponds.

  • Support the development of food, horticulture and viticulture industries in appropriate locations, particularly on the Bellarine Peninsula.

  • Support the development of aerospace industries within the confines of the Avalon Airport site.


21.07-5 Rural Areas
 

Objectives

  • To support the use of the northern, western and southern rural areas for productive agriculture.

  • To ensure that rural areas provide an attractive setting through the preservation of a farmed rural landscape.

  • To protect and enhance the Bellarine Peninsula as a productive rural area with highly significant landscapes based on farming and environmental features.

Strategies

  • Maintain rural land in large and productive parcels, in accordance with the schedules to the farming zones.

  • Minimise non farming land uses in rural areas.

  • Ensure that any non farming land uses will not compromise farming activity in the area.

  • Ensure development in rural areas respects the farmed landscape character, particularly significant landscapes identified through the Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study.

  • Ensure that new dwellings do not compromise the productive potential of land and are associated with the productive agricultural use of the land.

  • Encourage agricultural development with export potential and specifically encourage aquaculture and horticulture activities in the rural areas around Avalon Airport.


21.07-6 Tourism in rural areas
 

Objectives

  • To support tourism development in rural areas that respects the open farmed landscape of the area, and contributes to the economy.

Strategies

  • Within the Bellarine Peninsula rural areas, support appropriately scaled, high quality, landscape responsive tourism uses that are subservient and complimentary to their rural landscape and environmental setting and are associated with agricultural activity on the land.

  • In all other rural areas support tourism uses and developments in the Farming Zone that are associated with agricultural activity on the land.

  • Support a limited number of larger scale rural based tourism development within rural areas that require rezoning.

  • Direct major accommodation facilities to urban areas.


21.07-7 Implementation
19/07/2012 C187 These strategies will be implemented by:

Using policy and the exercise of discretion

Where appropriate, referring applications for the development of land in the Heales Road Industrial Estate to Worksafe.

Using the Discretionary Uses in Residential Areas Policy at Clause 22.01.

Using the Sexually Explicit Adult Entertainment Venues, Adult Sex Bookshops and Adult Cinemas Policy at Clause 22.02.

Using the Assessment Criteria for Retail Planning Applications Policy at Clause 22.03.

Using the Agriculture, Rural Dwellings and Subdivision Policy at Clause 22.05.

Using the Tourism Development in Rural Areas Policy at Clause 22.06.

Using the Racing Dog Keeping and Training Policy at Clause 22.07.

Using the Materials Recycling Policy at Clause 22.08.

Using the Gaming Policy at Clause 22.57.

Applying zones and overlays

Applying the Rural Activity Zone to major tourism proposals in accordance with Clause 22.06 – Tourism Development in Rural Areas.

Applying Schedule 1 to the Urban Growth Zone to the Armstrong Creek North East Industrial Precinct area in accordance with the North East Industrial Precinct, Precinct Structure Plan, May 2010.

Applying Schedule 1 to the Development Contributions Plan Overlay to the Armstrong Creek North East Industrial Precinct area in accordance with the North East Industrial Precinct, Precinct Structure Plan, May 2010.

Further work

Support the development of a masterplan for the Avalon Airport site.

Implement Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study (Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2006).

As a priority, commence an investigation into the future residential and industrial land use needs for Geelong, as a basis for future growth area planning that would include:

  • assessment of the environmental, resource, landscape, development pattern, access, servicing, land use, economic and social constraints and opportunities associated with possible growth areas around Geelong,

  • identification of a preferred growth area or areas, and

  • preparation of detailed growth area plans.

References

Heales Road Industrial Estate Framework Plan, MacroPlan Australia and the City of Greater Geelong, 2007.

Armstrong Creek Urban Growth Plan, City of Greater Geelong, 2006.

City of Greater Geelong Retail Strategy, Essential Economics and Hansen Partnership, 2006.

City of Greater Geelong Economic Development Strategy, City of Greater Geelong, 2005.

Geelong Seafood Industry Strategy, City of Greater Geelong, 2003 .

City of Greater Geelong Rural Land Use Strategy, City of Greater Geelong, 2007.

Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study, Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2006.

North East Industrial Precinct, Precinct Structure Plan, May 2010.

North East Industrial Precinct, Development Contributions Plan, May 2010

Greater Geelong Gaming Policy Framework, City of Greater Geelong, 2007.

21.07-8 City of Greater Geelong Retail Activity Centre Hierarchy

--/--/2013

City of Greater Geelong Retail Activity Centre Hierarchy
 

City of Greater Geelong Retail Activity Centre Hierarchy

 

Level in Hierarchy

Identified Centres

Indicative floorspace and example key tenants

 

Regional Centre

Central Geelong (1)

More than 100,000 sqm

Department store, discount store(s), mini major(s), supermarkets(s) and extensive range of specialties

 

Sub-regional Centres

Belmont (2), Corio Village (3), Waurn Ponds (4) Leopold (16)

15,000 sqm to 35,000 sqm

Discount department store(s), mini major(s) supermarket(s) and specialties

 

Community Centre

Pakington Street (Geelong West) (5)

10,000 sqm to 25,000sqm

Supermarket(s), mini major(s) and specialties

 

Neighbourhood Centres

Highton (6), Shannon Avenue (Geelong West) (7), Shannon Avenue (Newtown) (8), Bellarine Village (9), Newcomb Central (10), Bell Post (11), Ocean Grove marketplace (12), Separation Street (13), Pakington Street (Newtown) (14), Geelong East (15), Rosewall (34)

2,500 sqm to 25,000 sqm

Supermarket (small or full line), primarily convenience oriented specialties

 

Town Centres

Ocean Grove (Town Centre) (17), Drysdale (18), Lara (19), Barwon Heads (20), Portarlington (21)

1,500 sqm to 15,000 sqm

Supermarket, mini major(s), specialties

 

Homemaker Precincts

Waurn Ponds (22), Moorabool/Fyans (23), Geelong West (24), North Geelong (32)

5,000 sqm to 50,000 sqm

Large restricted retail type tenants

 

Potential Subregional Centres

Armstrong Creek (25)

 

 

Potential Neighbourhood Centres

Armstrong Creek East (26), Armstrong Creek Horseshoe Bend Rd (27), Jetty Road Growth Area (28), Ocean Grove north east growth corridor (29), Wandana Heights (30)

 

 

Potential Homemaker Precincts

Corio (31)

 

21.07-9 Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct Framework Plan map

19/07/2012

C187

Geelong Ring Road Employment Precinct Framework Plan map
 

SCHEDULE TO CLAUSE 52.28-3

--/--/2013

C247

Prohibition of a gaming machine in a shopping complex
 

Name of shopping complex and locality

Land description

 

Market Square Shopping Centre, Geelong

62 Malop St, Geelong

 

Bay City Plaza Shopping Centre, Geelong

95 - 121 Malop St, Geelong

 

Waurnvale Shopping Centre (Town and Country Shopping World), Grovedale

Land on the southwest corner of Princes Highway and Pioneer Rd, Grovedale, also known as 173 - 199 Pioneer Rd, Grovedale

 

Bellarine Village Shopping Centre, Newcomb

Land on the northwest corner of Bellarine Highway and Glenwood St, Newcomb, also known as 27-37 Bellarine Highway, Newcomb

 

Meadowvale Village Shopping Centre, Norlane

Land on the east side of Anakie Rd, Norlane (south of Bosbury St) also known as 290-306 Anakie Rd, Norlane

 

Corio Village Shopping Centre, Corio

Land bounded by Bacchus Marsh Rd, Purnell Rd, Goulburn Ave and Gellibrand St, Corio. also known as 83A Purnell Rd, Corio

 

Grovedale Shopping Centre, Grovedale

Land on the southwest corner of Heyers Rd and Burdoo Drive, Grovedale, also known as 79 Heyers Rd, Grovedale

 

Drysdale Village Shopping Centre, Drysdale

Land south of Wyndham St, Drysdale bounded by Wyndham St, Eversley St, Palmerston St, and Portarlington Rd, and land north of Wyndham St, Drysdale, bounded by Wyndham St, Carolanne Drive, Clifton Springs Rd and the commencement of the existing Residential 1 zone boundary

 

Newcomb Shopping Centre, Newcomb

Land on the northeast corner of Bellarine Highway and Wilsons Rd, Newcomb, also known as 71 Bellarine Highway, Newcomb

 

The Centreway, Lara

Land on the east and west sides of The Centreway, Lara, east of Waverley Rd

 

Leopold Shopping Centre, Leopold

Land on the corner of Bellarine Highway and Melaluka Road, Leopold.

 

Rosewall Shopping Centre (Fairbairn Drive and Aldi Supermarket, Corio)

12-20 Fairbairn Drive Corio and part of 465 Princes Highway, Corio, also known as Lot 1 on PS423406M.

 

Jetty Road Neighbourhood Activity Centre

South-west corner of the land at 148-166 Jetty Road, Drysdale



Appendix 4 - Planning Permit to be issued

PLANNING
PERMIT

 

 

Permit No.: 366/2011

Planning Scheme: Greater Geelong Planning Scheme

Responsible Authority: City of Greater Geelong

GRANTED UNDER DIVISION 5 OF PART 4 OF THE PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT ACT 1987

 
   
Address of the land: 12-20 Fairbairn Drive, Corio
   
THE PERMIT ALLOWS: Development of the Land for Shops, Associated Business Identification Signage and Partial Reduction of Car Parking, Loading and Bicycle Facility Requirements


THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS APPLY TO THIS PERMIT:

Amended Plans

  1. Prior to the commencement of the development, three (3) copies of amended plans to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority must be submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. When approved, the plans will be endorsed and will then form part of the permit. The plans must be drawn to scale with dimensions and must be generally in accordance with the plans submitted on 10 August 2012 but modified to show:

    1. Disabled spaces to conform to standard AS 2890.6;

    2. Deletion of zebra crossing from the plans and replaced with an informal crossing;

    3. Details of all plant and equipment, including detail of screening and noise attenuation;

    4. Details of all roadworks;

    5. A landscape plan in accordance with the requirements of condition 13 of this permit;

    6. Fully dimensioned floor, elevation and site plan;

    7. Interface treatment measures along the southern boundary, including fencing, wall treatment, location of services, landscaping and any other form of treatment which responds to the adjoining sensitive uses;

    8. Materials and colour schedule;

    9. A fully dimensioned signage plan including materials, colour, details of supporting structures, method of illumination and indicative location of future business identification signage for each premises;

    10. Dimensions of loading bays, car spaces and bicycle facilities;

    11. Location of waste and recycling storage areas and collection points.

Endorsed Plans

  1. The development as shown on the endorsed plan(s) must not be altered without the written consent of the Responsible Authority.

  2. The location and details of signs, as shown on the endorsed plans must not be altered without the written consent of the Responsible Authority unless exempt under the provisions of the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme.

  3. Prior to the occupation of the development all buildings and works must be completed in accordance with the endorsed plans unless otherwise approved in writing by the Responsible Authority.

Engineering

  1. Prior to works commencing an Environmental (Construction) Management Plan (EMP) must be submitted and must address control of site emissions during construction and the defects liability period to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority. The plans must include measures to be taken to ensure that no polluted water and/or sediment laden runoff is to be discharged directly or indirectly into stormwater drains or watercourses during the construction period. The EMP must be prepared in accordance with the EPA – Guideline for Environmental Management, Doing it Right on Subdivisions, Publication 960, September 2004.

  2. Prior to the commencement of works, engineer designed roadworks and drainage construction plans must be submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. The plans must show but are not limited to:

    1. Road construction of the Broderick Road frontage and Pearce Street frontage including drainage, road widening, surfacing and kerb and channel. Footpath is required along all frontages.

    2. The recommendations relating to road construction and treatment as listed in the Traffic and Car Parking Assessment dated July 2012 by Ceremira Pty Ltd.

  3. Prior to the commencement of the development hereby approved, engineer designed drainage plans must be submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. These plans must show that the design for the drainage system complies with relevant City of Greater Geelong Standards, Australian Rainfall and Runoff, Australian Standards (in particular AS 3500), WSUD Engineering Procedures: Stormwater- CSIRO, and any other approved technical publications relevant to the development, demonstrating that the system caters for the development in accordance with the following design criteria:  

    1. Site run-off must be limited to equivalent pre-developed levels for rainfall events of up to the 10 year ARI event;

    2. An appropriate on site detention system must be designed and installed to limit site run-off to designated levels;

    3. Runoff from Hard Standing Areas must be treated to achieve current best practice pollutant removal targets by connection to an appropriate Water Treatment Facility, with capacity to treat at least a 3 month ARI storm event, unless approved otherwise by the Responsible Authority. The Water Treatment Facility must be maintained to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority;

    all to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  4. Prior to the occupation of the development, roadworks and drainage must be constructed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority, and must include:

    1. ealed pavement with kerb and channel;

    2. Concrete footpaths; and

    3. Underground stormwater drainage.

  5. Unless otherwise approved in writing by the Responsible Authority, prior to the commencement of the development, the developer must submit for certification, a plan showing the creation of a 3m wide easement in favour of the relevant authority, over the existing 1275mm drainage pipe. The easement must be formally created prior to occupation.

  6. Prior to the occupation of the development, the developer must:

    1. construct the site stormwater drainage system including any hard stand treatment facility in accordance with the approved drainage plans;

    2. construct vehicular crossings via relevant Council Permit. Any redundant crossing is to be replaced with kerb and channel, to match existing. All power poles and drainage pits within road reserve are to be at least one meter clear of driveways and kerb and channel to the satisfaction of Responsible Authority;

    3. construct the car park including accessways, surfaced with an all-weather sealed coat in accordance with the endorsed plans;

    4. linemark the car park and accessways in accordance with the endorsed plan;

    all to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  7. All stormwater runoff must be collected on site and discharged to the underground drainage system in the South East Corner of the site, or other nominated point approved by the Responsible Authority, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

Traffic and Car Parking

  1. Prior to the occupation of the development, unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Responsible Authority, road widening works in Broderick Road and Pearce Street must be undertaken in accordance with plans submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. The plans must show, but not be limited to:

    1. Widening of Broderick Road to provide a deceleration lane/left turn lane to enter the Broderick Road vehicle crossing and Pearce Street;

    2. Widening and kerb and channel works of the development side of Pearce St;

    3. Provision of linemarking and signage in Broderick Rd;

    4. Relocation of the bus stop and provision of an indented bus bay and associated infrastructure, to the satisfaction of Public Transport Victoria;

    5. Provision of concrete splitter islands/pedestrian refuges at each end of Pearce St and associated linemarking and signage;

    6. Removal of the concrete splitter islands and delineator in Fairbairn Drive near the Pearce Street intersection;

    7. Provision of linemarking and raised reflective pavement markers, and signage, in Fairbairn Drive;

    8. Provision of a detailed Functional Layout Plan to show all proposed changes within the road reserves;

    9. Provision of footpath across all road frontages including connections to existing footpaths which may result in additional works beyond the immediate site frontage.

    (Note: With the written consent of the Responsible Authority, the works may be deferred for an agreed time period to enable performance monitoring to establish extent of upgrade works required in consultation with Council’s Traffic Engineering Unit. An Agreement under Section 173 of the Planning & Environment Act may be required to satisfy this condition).

  2. Unless otherwise approved by the Responsible Authority, prior to the commencement of the use, the areas set aside for the parking of vehicles, access lanes and pedestrian paths as shown on the endorsed plans must be:

    1. constructed;

    2. properly formed to such levels that they can be used in accordance with the plans;

    3. surfaced with an all weather seal coat.

    4. drained;

    5. line marked to indicate each car space and all access lanes;

    6. clearly marked to show the direction of traffic along access lanes and driveways;

    to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

    Car spaces, access lanes, pedestrian paths and driveways must be kept available for these purposes at all times

Landscaping

  1. Prior to the commencement of the development, three (3) copies of a landscape plan prepared by a suitably qualified or experienced, person to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority, must be submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. The plan(s) must be drawn to scale and show:

    1. A survey (including botanical names) of all existing vegetation to be retained and/ or removed;

    2. Details of surface finishes of pathways and driveways;

    3. A planting schedule of all proposed trees, shrubs and ground covers including botanical names, common names, pot sizes, sizes at maturity, and quantities of each plant;

    4. Landscaping and planting within all open areas of the site;

    5. Street works, including provision of street trees to the satisfaction of Council’s Parks Unit;

    6. Opportunities for rainwater harvesting and water reuse.

    When approved, the plan will be endorsed and form part of the permit, all to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

    Note: Council’s Parks Unit should be contacted to discuss appropriate street tree species and location. Please contact Tim Osborne on 5272 4827.

  2. Prior to the occupation of the development, the landscaping works as shown on the endorsed plans must be carried out and completed to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  3. The landscaping shown on the endorsed plans must be maintained to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

    Note: All completed landscaping works within the street and/or reserve must be inspected by Council’s Parks Unit. To arrange an inspection please contact Tim Osborne on 5272 4827.

Lighting and Signage

  1. Prior to the commencement of the use, low intensity lighting must be provided to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority to ensure that car park areas and pedestrian accessways are adequately illuminated during evening periods without any loss of amenity to occupiers of nearby land to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  2. Any outdoor and/or security lighting provided must be designed to prevent adverse light spill on adjoining land or road reserve to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  3. Outdoor lighting and signage must be designed, baffled and located to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority to prevent any adverse effect on adjoining land or road reserve.

    Except with the prior consent of the Responsible Authority, all internally illuminated signage must be turned off no later than 30 minutes after closing or by 12:00am midnight (which ever is sooner) and must not be turned on until 30 minutes prior to opening the following morning or no earlier than 5:00am (whichever is later).

Waste Management Plan

  1. Prior to the commencement of the development, a waste management plan must be submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. The plan must provide details of a regular garbage collection service to each of the uses on the subject land, including information regarding the type of refuse bins, type/size of trucks, means of accessing bins and frequency of refuse collection, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority. Once approved, the plan must be implemented to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  2. Provision must be made on the land for the storage and collection of garbage and other solid waste. This area must be graded, drained and screened from public view, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority and in accordance with the endorsed plans.

  3. All waste material must be regularly removed from the site to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

Public Transport Victoria

  1. Before the development starts, amended plans must be submitted to and approved by the Responsible Authority. When approved, the plans will be endorsed and will then form part of the permit. The plans must be drawn to scale with dimensions and three copies must be provided. The plans must be generally in accordance with the plans submitted with the application but modified to show:

    1. The existing bus stop on Broderick road removed and a new stop constructed on the south-western side of Broderick Road, between Pearce Street and the car park entrance of Beckley Park

    2. A concrete hard stand area for passengers

    3. A pole, flag and timetable box to Metlink’s requirements

    4. Designed in accordance with the VicRoad’s Bus Stop Guidelines February 2006, and the DOT Public Transport Guidelines for Land Use and Development

    5. Deemed compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act – Disability Standards for Accessible Public transport 2002

    6. Direct and safe pedestrian access to a pedestrian path

    7. Detail any remedial work required to the road pavement to provide a suitable turn in area to the satisfaction of Public Transport Victoria.

  2. Unless otherwise agreed in writing with Public Transport Victoria, before the development starts, the bus stop and associated infrastructure as shown on the endorsed plans, must be constructed at a cost born by the permit holder to the satisfaction of Public Transport Victoria and deemed compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act – Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002

  3. The permit holder must take all reasonable steps to ensure that disruption to bus operations is kept to a minimum during construction. Foreseen disruptions to bus operations must be communicated with mitigation measures to Public Transport Victoria and bus operators one (1) week prior.

Amenity

  1. The amenity of the area must not be detrimentally affected by the use or development through the:

    1. Transport of materials, goods or commodities to or from the land;

    2. Appearance of any building, works or materials;

    3. Emission of noise, artificial light, vibration, odour, fumes, smoke, vapour, steam, soot, ash, dust, waste water, waste products, grit or oil;

    4. Presence of vermin;

    to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

Screening and Materials Storage

  1. With the exception of guttering, rainheads and downpipes, all pipes, fixtures, fittings, vents, plant and equipment servicing any building on the land must be concealed in service ducts or otherwise hidden from view to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  2. Materials or goods stored in the open on the site must be screened from view of adjoining properties, roads and reserves, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  3. The service yard along the southern boundary must not be used to store any goods, materials or refuse in order to avoid impacts to the adjoining sensitive uses, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

Loading Areas and Deliveries

  1. The loading and unloading of goods from vehicles must only be carried out on the land within the designated loading bay(s) and must not disrupt the circulation and parking of vehicles on the land.

  2. The loading bay area(s) must remain available for this purpose at all times to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  3. Except with the prior written consent of the Responsible Authority, deliveries to the shops must only occur between the hours of:

    7.00am – 10.00pm daily (with no restriction to the number of deliveries);

    Deliveries to the premises must be in accordance with EPA Publication 1254 (Noise Control Guidelines 2008) or as amended.

Emissions

  1. All external plant and equipment must be acoustically treated or placed in soundproof housing to reduce noise to a level satisfactory to the Responsible Authority.

  2. Noise levels emanating from the premises must not exceed those required to be met under the State Environment Protection Policy (Control of Noise from Commerce, Industry and Trade), No. N-1.

  3. Security systems must be of the silent type, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

  4. Dust control measures must be implemented to prevent emissions which may cause nuisance to adjoining properties to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

Permit Expiry

  1. This permit will expire if one of the following circumstances applies:

    1. The development of the building(s) hereby approved has not commenced within two (2) years of the date of this permit

    2. The development of the building(s) hereby approved is not completed within four years of the date of this permit.

  2. Approval for the signage allowed under this permit expires 15 years from the date of issue.

    The Responsible Authority may extend the periods referred to if a request is made in writing before the permit expires or within three (3) months afterwards.

Engineering Notes

  1. Construction of the civil works are to be inspected by Council Representative at various stages. An appropriate fee equivalent to 3.25% of total cost of civil works (a minimum fee of $100 applies if the 3.25% amount is less than $100) excluding GST, is to be paid to Council for design, checking and supervision. Relevant evidential documentation of the cost is to be provided.

  2. All internal property drainage must be designed and constructed to satisfy AS/NZS 3500.

  3. As the site is subject to flooding, the applicant is advised that all floors should be set above the applicable site flood level. The engineering department should be contacted for advice on the applicable flood level.

  4. The consultant must contact Council’s Engineering department at the time of design for proposed finished surface levels at the boundary of the site fronting Pearce Street and Fairbairn Drive. An appropriate design level could help in providing flood protection to the development.


[Back to List]

15. Contractual Matter

Portfolio:

Sport & Recreation - Cr Irvine
Major Events – Cr Nelson

Source:

Projects, Recreation & Central Geelong

General Manager:

Dean Frost

Index Reference:

Subject: Events


Cr Farrell moved, Cr Irvine seconded -

That in accordance with Section 89 (2) (d) of the Local Government Act 1989, this contractual matter be considered at the conclusion of all other business at which time the meeting be closed to members of the public.


Carried.


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