- Minister for Planning
Victoria's iconic Surf Coast is now permanently protected from overdevelopment and urban sprawl thanks to safeguards brought in by the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Planning Richard Wynne today officially declared Torquay, Jan Juc and surrounds as Distinctive Areas and Landscapes (DAL) under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
The declaration comes after extensive consultation with local communities, councils and Traditional Owners and ensures the unique features of the precious coastline are recognised and prepared for long-term protection.
The Surf Coast declared area focuses on Torquay and Jan Juc and extends along the coastline from the eastern edge of the Great Otway National Park to Breamlea Flora and Fauna Reserve. It also covers the nearby hinterland area including the landscape setting of Bellbrae.
The Labor Government will now begin working on a Statement of Planning Policy setting out a 50-year vision for the region to guide development controls and settlement boundaries.
This will provide a framework to ensure the excellent beaches, coastal biodiversity, recreation and tourism attributes of the Surf Coast continue to be of special significance.
The DAL will be subject to the same strong protections that are in place for Melbourne's permanent Urban Growth Boundary, which requires parliamentary approval for amendments.
For more information on Surf Coast Distinctive Area and Landscape Declaration visit engage.vic.gov.au/distinctive-areas-and-landscapes-program.
As stated by Minister for Planning Richard Wynne
"We're delivering permanent planning protection to protect everything that's great about the iconic Surf Coast."
"We're looking forward to outlining a 50-year vision for the area, which will ensure this precious coastline is protected for generations to come."
As noted by Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
"We won't be letting greedy developers turn our precious Surf Coast into the Gold Coast, we promised to protect it and we're delivering."
