An Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO) was applied to parts of the Wonthaggi North East Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) in January this year, after the land had been sub-divided for residential use.
The overlay was put in place by the State Government Victorian Planning Authority after it was determined that parts of the precinct could have contaminated soil due to a history of farming on the land.
The overlay requires developers or homeowners to complete a risk screening survey before Council can approve planning permits. It does not prevent homes being built on the land.
While Council is unable to alter the requirements of an Environmental Audit Overlay, we are in constant discussion with the Victorian Planning Authority to resolve the situation urgently. We are also working with developers to keep individual landowners informed.
We understand this is a stressful time for homeowners in the affected areas, and those who hold titles to build.
Council has now developed a page on our website for affected community members.
