Surf Coast Shire Council is inviting Winchelsea community members to help shape the town's sustainable growth.
A Winchelsea place planning project is starting with creation of a 30-member community group which will nurture a Winchelsea Place Plan during a series of workshops.
The wider community will be able to contribute via a survey and public engagement opportunities.
The place plan will provide clarity on how growth will be managed in the town across the next 30 years, as well as provide guidance on matters of importance to the community related to various growth demands.
The place planning process will also help shape a more detailed structure plan.
It is forecast that between now and 2051, there will be demand for between 9,546 and 12,051 additional homes in Surf Coast Shire, of which 4,535 to 7,531 are expected to be in Winchelsea.
Council's recently-adopted Urban Futures Strategy designates Winchelsea and Torquay-Jan Juc, as the shire's primary locations for population growth across coming decades, and recommends developing a new strategic plan for Winchelsea to plan for its sustainable growth.
The first step in this process is a place plan.
Council is calling for community feedback and expressions of interest in joining the place planning community planning group.
Mayor Mike Bodsworth: "This place-planning process recognises that to grow well, with great character, liveability and sustainability, Winchelsea needs a planning approach that's collaborative, reflects community aspirations and honours the place's unique characteristics and heritage.
"We hope this process will be informed and guided by the wealth of local knowledge and expertise within the community, and people with a diverse range of interests and backgrounds.
"We encourage community members to provide feedback about what they want for Winchelsea now and into the future, via our online and in-person engagement activities, and to consider expressing interest in joining the community planning group.
"The group's workshops will be led by an experienced facilitator, and as the process progresses supported by Council officers."
