Mitchell Shire Council is encouraged by the Victorian Government's 10-year greenfields plan, which offers a structured pathway for housing growth and development across the region.
Council has been closely collaborating with the State Government on Precinct Structure Plans (PSPs) for many years, and it's promising to see a comprehensive approach to address housing needs.
Mitchell Shire Council CEO Brett Luxford said the inclusion of Beveridge South West PSP is particularly welcomed, as it unlocks significant housing opportunities and delivers key transport infrastructure, including a major north-south arterial road to improve connectivity across the region.
"While the timeline of 4 to 8 years reflects the need for comprehensive planning, we stress the importance of aligning this process with a guaranteed infrastructure pipeline to meet the needs of our rapidly growing communities," he said.
"For communities like Beveridge and Wallan, where growth has often outpaced infrastructure, the alignment of PSPs with essential services-such as transport, schools, and health facilities-will be key to creating vibrant, healthy neighbourhoods.
"Council's focus remains on advocating for infrastructure to keep pace with development, and we appreciate the structured approach that provides a clearer framework for collaboration as we advance housing and infrastructure initiatives."
Mr Luxford said while the 10-year plan includes three new PSPs as part of horizon one, there are no new PSPs for Mitchell Shire within this horizon.
"Council will continue to work with the Victorian Government to complete the Beveridge North West PSP as part of the broader development vision for our area," he said.
"Regarding the Wallan East and Wallan South PSPs, Council, along with landowners and the State Government, has invested significant work in advancing these plans. Their inclusion in horizon two allows for continued progress with the necessary infrastructure to support sustainable growth. Council remains committed to collaborating with the State Government and other stakeholders to keep these PSPs moving forward.
"As for the Beveridge North West PSP, Council understands that the Ministerial Advisory Committee completed hearings in June 2022 and delivered its report to the Minister shortly afterward. A key factor in the PSP's progression is the proposed quarry, which has faced strong opposition from both Council and the community. We hope that the Minister's decision will align with community concerns, allowing Beveridge North West to develop as a sustainable community without a quarry at its centre."
You can find out more about the Victorian Government's 10-year greenfields plan on their website.
