MINISTER for Planning Sonya Kilkenny announced the approval of the Bass Coast Statement of Planning Policy (SPP) by the Governor in Council, which now forms part of the Victoria Planning Provisions, on Thursday.
The Bass Coast joins the Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast and Macedon Ranges as one of Victoria’s officially declared Distinctive Areas and Landscapes with the new policy setting a 50-year vision for the region’s future – locking in 24 settlement boundaries across townships including Cowes, San Remo, Grantville, Cape Paterson, and Kilcunda.
Developed in partnership with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, Bass Coast Shire Council, government agencies, the Distinctive Areas and Landscapes Standing Advisory Committee and local community groups, the SPP reflects a shared commitment to protect what makes the region special and ensure the region is preserved for the future.
Though a 50-year vision for Bass Coast, the SPP must be reviewed no later than 10 years after it commences (in 2035), and has flexibility to be reviewed earlier if there are compelling reasons supported by strategic planning and technical studies.
“Bass Coast’s coastline, farmland and townships make it a truly special place to live, work and visit – now we’ve locked in protections to keep it that way,” Member for Bass Coast Jordan Crugnale stated.
A planning scheme amendment will now embed the SPP protections into the Bass Coast Planning Scheme.
Despite opposition, Bass Coast Shire Council formally endorsed the SPP on July 9 at a special meeting at short notice, with councillors predominantly voting in favour. Cr Edwards voted against, and Cr Tessari was absent from the vote.
Cr Bauer did raise concerns at the time in regard to a Cape Paterson development that was now confronted with different criteria, and that locking in town boundaries could lead to larger blocks being subdivided for infill and increased building heights, while Cr Thompson expressed concern about retreat for areas of erosion, and the absence of a town boundary around Adams Estate.
“Bass Coast is one of Victoria’s most iconic regions – from the Bunurong cliffs to the beaches of Phillip Island and the rolling Strzelecki Foothills – and this is about ensuring they can be enjoyed for generations to come,” Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said in announcing the Governor in Council’s approval.
“This is about protecting the landscapes, coastlines and communities that define Bass Coast, while supporting the industries and jobs that sustain it.”
