Surf Coast Shire Council adoption of a planning scheme amendment will protect Moriac from growth compromising its small-town rural character.
In adopting the amendment at its September meeting Council implemented the Moriac Structure Plan which sets a strategic settlement boundary for the town and designates one area, south of Hinterland Estate, for low-density development.
A planning framework incorporated into the Surf Coast Planning Scheme will guide Moriac land use planning decisions for the next 10 years.
Council adoption of the planning scheme amendment follows a recommendation by an independent Victorian Planning Panel.
Cr Joel Grist: "Creation of the Moriac Structure Plan was informed by extensive community engagement and feedback which overwhelmingly called for protection of its small-town character, environment and consideration of Traditional Owner values.
"While a small amount of residential growth is to be expected, adoption of the planning scheme amendment and implementation of the structure plan respects those community aspirations for the long-term.
"Implementation of the structure plan has evolved into a long journey and we acknowledge Moriac community members, and the Moriac Community Network, for having shared thoughts and feedback during our consultation workshops and surveys.
"This input is so important as we seek to maintain sustainable, liveable and functional communities in line with our Council Plan."
The independent panel review found that the planning scheme amendment appropriately responded to environmental, agricultural, infrastructure and bushfire considerations, and that a designated Future Low Density Development Area would appropriately accommodate future growth.
The panel did not support inclusion of land at 33 Farrer Drive within the development area, or the inclusion of land at 650 Cape Otway Road within the settlement boundary or as a future investigation area.
