The State Government has today applied an interim Erosion Management Overlay (EMO) to some properties in high-risk landslip areas across the Yarra Ranges while Amendment C225 that was recently publicly exhibited is further considered.
Amendment C225 proposes to update the Erosion Management Overlay mapping in the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme. This has been done to reflect that current mapping was prepared in the 1990s, based on contour plans and aerial photography from the 1960s.
"While that may have been the best technology at the time, Amendment C225 reflects that we have significantly better technology to know which properties may be at risk of landslip," Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins said.
The EMO is a planning control used across Victoria to manage land at risk of erosion or landslip. It ensures that developments, like buildings or other earthworks, are done safely and appropriately to reduce the risk of landslide.
The State Government has approved Amendment C230 that applies an interim EMO on properties currently not covered by an overlay until 7 October 2027 or until Amendment C225 is finalised.
Cr Higgins said the interim EMO will be in place while an independent planning panel works through submissions to Amendment (C225).
"With more extreme weather in the future, it's crucial to have more accurate EMO mapping, ensuring new developments and works can keep property owners, and the wider community, safe," Cr Higgins said
"The State Government's interim EMO will apply an overlay to properties that are included in Amendment C225 that currently don't have an EMO, but likely will under Amendment C225.
"It reflects the fact that amending the planning scheme can take time, so an interim EMO gives property owners clarity on what they can do when it comes to applying for a planning permit on their land."
Council will soon write to property owners impacted by the interim EMO to explain the changes and how it may impact them.
"If community members have any concerns about how this might impact them, or any planning applications that may be underway, I encourage them to give our team a call at 1300 368 333," Cr Higgins said.
Public exhibition of C225 has concluded and Council will consider a report discussing the submissions at the next Council meeting. It is expected Council will refer the submissions to the State Government, where they will be assessed by an independent planning panel, appointed by the Minister for Planning.
