Council has finalised its revamped Housing Strategy, following engagement with the community about the future of residential development in the Yarra Ranges.
On Tuesday, 11 June, Councillors unanimously endorsed the Housing Strategy and the supporting Neighbourhood Character Study. Both documents will guide the location, intensity and design of developments in Yarra Ranges for the coming 15 years.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Sophie Todorov, said that our community needs sustainable and affordable homes that suit our changing lives and needs. She noted that community value protecting the much-loved character of certain parts of Yarra Ranges, while there is also a need to plan for new development in the right locations that helps community access services, employment and transport.
"We know that in the current cost of living crisis, housing is at the forefront of many minds across the country – and we know that managing development and balancing more diversity of homes and affordable homes with the character of our region is critically important," Cr Todorov said.
"That's where this strategy comes in – it will help to focus new residential development around shops, services and train stations, which benefits residents and businesses and builds a more connected community.
"The strategy includes an action for a new policy to support social housing through partnerships, which will assist in increasing the supply of affordable and social housing – something we so sorely need in the outer east.
"Accessible design is also something considered by the Housing Strategy, to ensure new houses are accessible for everyone, regardless of age or abilities."
Cr Todorov said that the community had provided extensive feedback via Council's website, surveys and a Community Reference Group.
"Late last year, we put out the draft strategy to the community, and had robust, vibrant and informed feedback from our community.
"We've taken time to incorporate this feedback, and expert advice, to finalise the Strategy, and I'd strongly encourage anyone interested in housing in the region to have a read of the finished document.
"I'd like to take a moment to sincerely thank all community members who engaged with us on this topic, including our Community Reference Group for their detailed thoughts and contributions."
