The City of Greater Bendigo is preparing a new Rural Areas Strategy to provide certainty and clear direction on future land use and development in rural areas.
The project is in its early stages and the community is invited to provide feedback on the draft Background Review and Issues and Opportunities Paper.
The Rural Areas Strategy's main aim is to ensure the long-term sustainability of the region's rural areas that are important for agriculture, rural living and the environment.
The draft Background Review and Issues and Opportunities Paper has identified several themes. These include:
- Protection of productive farming land
- Protection and enhancement of natural and cultural assets
- Opportunities to reduce land use conflicts by identifying appropriate locations for rural residential, tourism and non-agricultural uses
- Needs of existing and future agricultural operations, particularly intensive animal industries including lot sizes and buffer areas, infrastructure such as roads and water
- External pressures such as the impact of climate change and changing forms of energy production
Director Strategy and Growth Rachel Lee said the Background Review and Issues and Opportunities Paper was the first stage of the Rural Areas Strategy project.
"I understand that this is a busy time of the year for many people living and working in rural areas, but this is a great opportunity to provide valuable feedback on matters that are important to you," Ms Lee said.
"The term 'rural areas' refers to land that is in one of the rural zones. There are separate pieces of work that are either completed, underway or are proposed that relate to small towns which recognise the critical role they play in supporting rural areas.
"The review has helped to identify a range of issues, opportunities and potential strategies and you are invited to provide input to ensure the approach is comprehensive.
"This will help guide the development of a new Rural Areas Strategy so have your say and encourage your family and friends to also provide feedback."
Information sessions are also being held where you can speak to City officers involved in the project.
The in-person sessions are on the following days:
- 5.30pm to 7pm on November 22 at Raywood Hotel, 48 Sandhurst Street, Raywood
- 5pm to 7pm November 27 at Elmore Community Hub, 3 Clarke Street, Elmore
- 9am to 12pm December 7 at Heathcote Bush Market, Heathcote
The draft Background Review and Issues and Opportunities Paper is open for public engagement until Friday December 13.
To give feedback and complete a brief survey, visit the City's Let's Talk community engagement website.
