A new plan for water management in Torquay's last remaining growth area will help protect the town's environmentally sensitive waterways.
Council adopted an Integrated Water Management Plan for the future Messmate Road Growth Area during its meeting on Tuesday night.
The plan identifies long-term strategies for managing stormwater, drinking water and recycled water as the area is developed.
It has been created with the aid of expert technical reports and input from multiple agencies, with a view to achieving environmental excellence reflective of Torquay's status as a declared Distinctive Area and Landscape.
The plan's key aim is to protect the health and cultural heritage of waterways and valued landscapes downstream of the growth area, including Deep Creek and the Karaaf Wetlands.
Mayor Libby Stapleton said it's important to Council that water management is addressed from the outset and factored into all decisions about land use and development on Messmate Road.
"Water management in new developments is complex and needs to be very carefully thought through," Mayor Stapleton said.
"This plan will set a new benchmark in environmental excellence.
"It reflects the high value our local community places on protection of the natural environment, and it will also reduce Council's long-term financial risk by making sure we protect environments downstream."
The plan will now be sent to the state Department of Transport and Planning's Development Facilitation Program, requesting that it be recognised as a key document to guide development of the area.
In October 2025, Council adopted a Precinct Concept Plan for the Messmate Road Growth Area, detailing its aims for the precinct to be developed as a highly liveable community, with well-planned facilities and open space, environmental protections, transport connections and a mix of housing types.
The growth area is on the north-western side of Messmate Road, between Coombes Road at the south end and the Surf Coast Highway in the north.
