A Victorian Government-led consultation proposing a significant development of Clarkefield is now open, following earlier advocacy from Council to implore broad community awareness and input.
The Draft Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme Amendment - C164macr proposes to facilitate a new district town at Clarkefield and subdivision of Phase 1, featuring a mixed-use town centre and about 2,300 new dwellings including affordable and key worker housing.
Mayor Kate Kendall said Council was actively considering its own submission to the proposal, and encouraged the broader community to review it and provide their own feedback.
"This is a significant proposal for not only Clarkefield, but also the entire Macedon Ranges. All residents should take the chance to view it and have your voice heard," she said.
"With strong farming ties, and a peri-urban location including a train station, the future development of Clarkefield needs to be measured and carefully considered. Council intends to continue advocating for the best outcome for the community."
In a recent response to a Council letter in March 2026, which followed a Notice of Motion at Council's February 2026 Council Meeting, Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny confirmed that full public consultation would occur on a draft planning scheme amendment and combined planning permit application before any decisions were made.
The Minister also confirmed that the amendment released for consultation would be supported by a 'comprehensive package of strategic documents responding to the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme'.
This consultation and these documents are now available to view on the Engage Victoria website, with feedback open until 1 June 2026: engage.vic.gov.au/draft-planning-scheme-amendment-to-the-macedon-ranges-planning-scheme-c164macr
Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/advocacy for the latest on this and other Council-led advocacy matters.
