At the Planning Delegated Committee Meeting on Wednesday 8 October 2025, Ballarat City Council considered the following items:
Amendment C243Ball - Ballarat West Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) and Development Contributions Plan (DCP) review
Ballarat City Council reviewed a report detailing 22 public submissions received during the exhibition of a planning scheme amendment for a review of the Ballarat West Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) and Development Contributions Plan (DCP).
Following a comprehensive review by City of Ballarat officers, the recommended amendment updates planning controls to reflect current development trends, infrastructure needs, and community expectations.
The revised PSP anticipates an increase in housing yield from 14,442 to 15,524 dwellings, with a shift toward higher residential densities in line with state planning policy.
Key changes include shifting costs, payable by landowners, to help cover essential infrastructure like roads, drainage, footpaths, and cycling paths; and increased parkland and nature reserves to address the loss of recreation areas.
Outcome
Due to the number and nature of submissions received, Council resolved to refer the submissions to an Independent Planning Panel for further consideration.
Amendment C249Ball - Osborne House, 214 Creswick Road, Ballarat Central
Ballarat City Council considered a report relating to Planning Scheme Amendment C249ball, which proposes to apply a Heritage Overlay to Osborne House and its surrounds at 214 Creswick Road, Ballarat Central on a permanent basis.
Designed by renowned architect Percy Richards in 1913, Osborne House is a rare and intact example of a Federation-era residence with original outbuildings including a laundry, stables, and one of Victoria's earliest purpose-built residential motor garages.
The site also features a unique iron palisade fence with cast-iron detailing.
The proposed amendment follows a successful interim heritage overlay and a Planning Panel recommendation supporting full-site protection. A permanent heritage overlay would ensure the long-term conservation of this architecturally and historically significant property, recognising its contribution to Ballarat's cultural heritage and built environment.
Outcome
Ballarat City Council resolved to adopt the amendment and request the Minister for Planning approve the amendment to the Ballarat Planning Scheme.
Amendment C257ball - Former McGrath Blacksmith and Residence, Ascot
Ballarat City Council considered a report relating to Amendment C257ball, which seeks to protect the Former McGrath Blacksmith and Residence at 2172 Ballarat-Maryborough Road, Ascot, through a Heritage Overlay.
Operating as a blacksmith workshop since the 1860s, the site includes a 1912 timber residence and original forge equipment, offering rare insight into Ballarat's rural-industrial history.
The amendment seeks to reinstate full protection following community feedback and strategic heritage advice.
It allows for future use of the site, while ensuring the preservation of its historical character and supporting future viability and eligibility for restoration funding.
Outcome
Ballarat City Council resolved to adopt the amendment and request the Minister for Planning approve the amendment to the Ballarat Planning Scheme.
Amendment C258ball - Former Price's Grocery, Ballarat Central
Ballarat City Council considered a report relating to Amendment C258ball, which seeks to apply a permanent Heritage Overlay to the former Price's Grocery at 202 Lyons Street South, Ballarat Central.
Built in 1869 and designed by architect Edward James, the building is notable for its intact Victorian-era architecture and two rare painted signs, one featuring the iconic Ballarat Bertie mascot for Ballarat Bitter, and another for Victoria Bitter.
These signs are among the last of their kind and hold strong social and cultural value for the Ballarat community.
The amendment seeks to elevate the site's heritage status from contributory to individually significant, ensuring its long-term protection.
The proposal received strong support from the National Trust and aligns with Council's commitment to preserving Ballarat's unique heritage.
Outcome
Ballarat City Council resolved to adopt the amendment and request the Minister for Planning approve the amendment to the Ballarat Planning Scheme.
