Coastal properties that are prone to future flood events and climate change induced sea level rise will be covered by a new Land Subject to Inundation Overlay.
Council has adopted Amendment C394GGEE and referred it to the Minister for Planning for approval.
The amendment includes planning scheme policy changes and applies the overlay to 1,600 properties around the Bellarine Peninsula and Corio Bay, based on the state policy of planning for a 0.8 metre sea level rise by 2100 and a severe storm surge event. Many properties are already covered by flood overlays and this one will help reduce risks to public safety and damage to properties.
The areas that will be covered by the amendment, if it gains ministerial approval, are parts of Geelong, Portarlington, Moolap, Newcomb, Barwon Heads, Ocean Grove, Indented Head, St Leonards, Swan Bay, Barwon River estuary, Avalon and Breamlea.
Point Lonsdale is excluded for now but will undergo further flood modelling that considers The Point waterway system, which is still being constructed.
The overlay means a planning permit would be needed for buildings and works, but upper storey extensions and additions such as verandahs that are less than 20 square metres are exempt.
Permit applications would be referred to the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority, which would typically require floor levels to be set above the predicted flood level with an allowance for sea level rise. This will ensure the inside of dwellings are protected from flooding.
Council last year referred 43 public submissions, 39 of which were objections, to an Independent Panel for consideration.
The panel reported in April that it supports the amendment and praised council for its "forward looking and proactive approach in preparing the amendment". The panel found the amendment is well founded and will benefit the community.
Councillor Stephanie Asher - Mayor
By acting on the modelling available, this amendment will help protect residents, properties and agriculture that are predicted to be affected by future sea level rises, tides, storm surges and coastal processes.
Councillor Trent Sullivan - Chair, Planning portfolio
This amendment will cover 1,600 properties, including 1,244 residences, and put these areas in line with state government planning policy. It won't be a 'set and forget' amendment but will require updating over time and as more scientific information comes to light.
Building an extra storey for an existing home or adding a deck or verandah that's less than 20 square metres won't need a planning permit.
