1952

VICTORIA

SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT

01<' THE

TOvVN AND COUN1'R,Y PL1\NNING 130ARD

FOI1 THE PERIOD

lsr JULY, 1951, TO 30rH JUNE, 1~)52.

PHESENTED TO BOTH HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 4 (3) OF THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLA},"NING ACT 1944.

Appro:rima.te Cost of Repo,-1.-Preparat!on-not given. PrintJng (\l50 copieti), £225 ].

!'!! Jtutlt.ortt!): W. M. HOUSTON, GOVERNMENT PRINTER, . No. 5.-[2s. 3d.].-6989/52.

INDEX

Page The Act-Suggested Amendments .. 5 Regulations under the Act 8 Planning Schemes-General 8 Details of Planning Schemes in Course of Preparation 9 Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme 12 Abattoirs 12 Gas and Fuel Corporation 13 Outfall Sewer 13 Railway Crossings 13 Shire of Narracan-- Moe-Newborough Planning Scheme 14 Y allourn North Planning Scheme 14 Shire of Morwell- Morwell Planning Scheme 14 Herne's Oak Planning Scheme 15 Yinnar Planning Scheme 15 Boolarra Planning Scheme 16 Shire of - Traralgon Planning Scheme 16 Tyers Planning Scheme 16 Eildon Sub-Regional Planning Scheme 17 Gelliondale Sub-Regional Planning Schenu• 17 Club Terrace Planning Scheme 17

Geelong and Di~triet Town Planning Scheme 18 Portland and DiHtriet Planning Scheme 18 Wangaratta Sub-Regional Planning Scheme 19 and District Joint Planning Scheme 19 Planning Scheme .. 20 Planning Seheme 20 Planning Scheme~Seetion 1 20 Plaml'ing Seheme 20 Planning Scheme 21 Shire of Broadml'adows Planning Scheme 21 Shire of (Cobmm) Planning Scheme No. 2 21 Shire of W odonga Planning Scheme 22 City of Planning t::lcheme 22 Shire of W arragul Planning Seh<>liH' 22 Shire of - Numurkah Planning Scheme 23 . Planning Scheme 23 Metropolitan Planning 23 Ocean Road 24 Tallangatta Township Reml)val 25 4

Page Borough of Maryborough 28 City of Moorabbin-Scheme under Srction 594 of Local Government Act 29 Co-operation of Goverument Departments aml Public Authorities 31 Land Use Zoning 31 The Segregation of Offen si ve Tmdes 32 Base Maps for Planning Scheme8 34 Selection of Place Names 34 The Work of Consultant Planners 35 Car Parking in Country Towns 35 The Subdivision of Laml 37 Early Planning of :Vlelbourm· 39 'rown Planning Education 39 Town Planning Congress 40 Visit of Professor W. G. Holford 40 National Parks .. 40 Visits by the Board 41 Staff 41

MAPS -Illustrating Municipalities Preparing Planning Schemes Fronting Page 9 }foe-Newborough Planning Scheme Fronting Page 14 Town and Country Planning Board.

SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT.

State Offices Annexe, 107 Russell-street, Melbourne, C.l. 20th November, 1952, The Honourable, the Minister of Public Works, Treasury Place, Melbourne, C.2. SIR, 1. In accordance with the requirements of Section 4 (3) of the Town and Country Plann,i,ng Act 1944 (No. 5043), the Board has pleasure in submitting to you, for presentation to Parliament, the report on its decisions, recommendations, and other transactions during the twelve months ended 30th June, 1952. 2. The Board held 52 meetings as well as being represented at many conferences in both metropolitan and country centres.

THB ACT. 3. Over a period of two years the Board has requested certain machinery and other amendments to the Act which have been the subject of discussions with you from time to time. In some instances further information to support the proposals has been supplied at your request. 4. To assist your further consideration of these proposed amendments and to avoid the necessity of referring to previous correspondence extending over a period, a consolidated statement of submissions made, together with notes as to subsequent action taken, was forwarded to you on the 24th June, 1952. 5. The proposed amendments referred to are as follows :- (1) Definition of the commencernent of the preparation of a plann,ing scheme. Many important sections of the Act, including Section 12, 'vhich relates to the issue of interim development orders, are hinged on this important legal date but there is no precise definition in the Act as to what actually constitutes the commencement of a planning scheme. When the Board prepared its Uegulations No. 1, later superseded by Regulations No. 4, it included clause 7 which specifically defined the "commencement of a planning scheme." This has been generally adopted and clearly expresses what is required. The specific definition of this significant date is, however, considered of such importance that it should be covered by the Act itself. (2) Exemption from liability to pay compensaiion under certain provisions of a plann'ing scheme to be extended to nn inten:rn development order. The further proviso to Section 22 of the Act reads as follows provided further that no compensation shall be payable under this Section in respect of- (a) any provision in a planning scheme which could have been made and enforced without liability to pay compensation by any municipality or public authority independently of this Act ; (b) any provision in a planning scheme which requires, in the case of the erection of any building intended to be used for the purpose of a business or industry, the provision of accommodation for loading or unloading or fuelling vehicles with a view to preventing the obstruction of traffic in public streets ; or · 6

(c) any proviSIOn in a planning scheme which prescribes areas in which land is to be used for specified purposes and prohibits, restricts, or regulates the use of land in those areas for any other purposes." These provisions relate to an approved planning scheme. It would appear that liability for compensation may be proved if, prior to the approval of the planning scheme, the responsible authority disallowed such development under an interim development order, although prohibition by the scheme, when approved, is without liability for compensation. It is suggested that a similar indemnity be provided in the case of a refusal to grant permission for the same type of development as is exempted from liability for compensation under an approved planning scheme. The Board also submits that the Act should exclude a responsible authority, operating under an interim development order, from liability for compensation for any temporary refusal to permit the changing use of land during the bona fide period when a planning scheme is being prepared, notwithstanding that the final approved planning scheme may not adhere to the temporary objection. (3) Continuation of joint cmmnittee after approval of a joint planning scheme. The Act provides that the responsible authority "as regards the enforcement and carrying out of any scheme means the council of the municipality whose municipal district or any portion thereof is included in the area of the scheme ". 1'his means that when a scheme, prepared by a joint committee, is approved, it is left to the constituent councils to enforce and carry out the provisions of the scheme. v\nilst in the main this is sound, it is felt that some aspects of a joint planning scheme will be more satisfactorily observed if the joint committee propounding the scheme is retained to oversee its implementation. The retention of a joint committee would encourage the provision in the scheme itself of vested authority to determine priority of works and the allocation of funds jointly contributed. It is highly probable that the mere obligation of consultation would be the best means of ensuring mutual co-operation in giving effect to such provisions in a joint planning scheme. (4) Clarification of land acquisition powers. The Act provides that " for the purposes of any planning scheme the responsible authority may either by agreement or compulsorily purchase any land or any easement right or privilege in over or affecting any land ". Whilst such a power seems obviously intended to apply only for the purpose of carrying into effect the provisions of a scheme which has been approved after being subjected to public criticism and objection, the position may not be clearly stated. The Board, therefore, feels that the attention of the Parliamentary Draftsman should be drawn to the desirability of inserting the word "approved" before the words " planning scheme " in Section 21. (5) Publication of interim development orders. 1'he Act requires that a copy of every approved interim development order must be published in the Government Gazette and in a local and daily newspaper (see Section 12). Often the technical description of the area covered is very lengthy and the cost of publishing same appreciable. It is necessary for any interested party to visit the office of the responsible authorities in order to ascertain from a plan what area is in fact embraced in the technical description and the other associated provisions. The Board believes that it is only necessary to publish a summary of the order and that responsible authorities be required to have available for inspection a plan showing the area affected by the order. It is, therefore, suggested that the position can be adequately and economically met by following the procedure laid down for by-laws under the Local Government Act as per Section 207 (a) (ii). (6) Clarification of the effectiveness of an interim development order when a ]Jlanni,ng scheme for only part of the planning area is approved. The Board suggests that the Act be clarified to ensure that interim control lapses only in respect of such area or areas in respect of which a planning scheme has been approved. 7

An amendment to Section 12, along the following lines, would meet the case, viz., ''provided that when a planning scheme is approved for part only of the area covered by the interim development order, then the order shall be revoked only in respect of such part."

(7) Reference of all plan,<; of subdivision to the Board. In the original draft of the Town and Country Planning Bill before it was presented to Parliament in 1944, provision was made for reference to the Board of all plans of subdivision before they could be approved by Councils. This was in accordance with the recommendations made by the .Metropolitan Town Planning Commission in 1929-see Part X. of its final Report, Page 295. It has become increasingly desirable to have this provision inserted in the Act so that before plans of subdivision are sealed by a council, they should be examined by the Board. No doubt many examples of bad and unco-ordinated land subdivisions could be prevented if an overall supervision were maintained. Such a provision has been included in Western Australian and South Australian legislation for many years. (See also page 37.)

(8) Inclusion in the Schedule of a provision relating to transportation. This provision in the Schedule was requested by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works and the Institution of Engineers when the Town and Country Planning (Metropolitan Area) Bill of 1949 was before Parliament. The 1'J,Jetropolitan Town Planning Commission Act 1922 listed among the matters to be considered- " (b) existing means of transportation and probable future requirements with respect to railways, tramways, or other means of transportation; (d) water front and river improvements, including harbour and wharfage improvements and bridges ; " The final report of the Commission contained proposals which incorporated the Darling-Glen Waverley Railway; Kew-Doncaster Railway; railway proposals in South and Port Melbourne and a City Underground Railway. 1-Vharves and docks were incorporated as part of the plan. Arterial roads for road transport and the provision of "''.ide roads where future tramways are proposed were also given due consideration. A plan should incorporate and dovetail the proposals of all interested authorities, and the present Schedule to the Act, unless widely interpreted, does not contain this provision. It is suggested therefore that a further item should be added to the Schedule which might read as follows :-~"'Railway, tramway, road, water, and air transport of goods and passengers."

(9) Acqttisition of land. Arising out of the opnnon given by the Crown Solicitor in regaid to the ·Planning Scheme, the Board wrote to the Crown Solicitor with a view to setting out its ideas as to the manner in which the Act should be interpreted so as to give full effect to the provisions of a planning scheme. In view of the reply obtained from the Crown Solicitor it appeared to the Board that an immediate amendment of Section 21 (1) of the Act was required and the following draft amendment was submitted four your consideration:-- " 21. (1) For the purpose of giving effect to the provisions of an approved planning scheme the responsible authority may, with the consent of the Governor in Council after taking into consideration a report of the Board, either by agreement or compulsorily purchase any land or any easement right or privilege in over or affecting any land including land which may be re-subdivided and re-sold either to the original owner or to any other person and the Registrar-General is hereby authorized and directed to make all such entries upon the records of any Crown grant or upon any memorial relating to the land as are necessary or expedient in consequence of this sub-section provided that except with the approval of the Governor in Council the responsible authority shall not dispose of any land at a price lower than the price at which it was acquired." 8

(10) Payment of compensation for compulsory discontinuation of a non-conforming use. In planning schemes, provision is made for the prescription of various land use zones such as residential, commercial, and industriaL Usually, in developed areas, it is found that certain buildings and land are being used for purposes other than those prescribed for the particular zones in the planning scheme, such as an isolated shop or factory in the midst of residences. ·whilst in a majority of cases, no harmful effect is entailed, it is sometimes found that the non-conforming use is such that the responsible authority is prepared to outlay money in the payment of compensation so that the objectionable use of the land and/or building can be terminated in the interests of neighbourhood amenity. It would appear that the responsible authority could not pay compensation in such circumstances, even though it so desired, because the further proviso to Section 22 of the Town and Country Planning Acts specifically prevented any such payment. The Board feels that it is imperative in the carrying out of the provisions of an approved planning scheme, that such a power should be vested in the responsible authority.

(11) Further exhibition period arising out of substantial alteration to a planning scheme as exhibited. In order to safeguard the rights of any person likely to be affected by alterations made to a planning scheme by the responsible authority as a result of the consideration of objections, the Board suggested an amendment to Section 14 of the Act whereby the amended planning scheme may be further exhibited if it appears to the Board that substantial alterations have been made to the scheme since its original exhibition.

6. Your further decisions on the proposed amendments are now awaited and the Board is hopeful of the early submission to Parliament of the necessary Bill to effect these amendments.

REGULATIONS. 7. On 23rd October, 1951, Regulations No. 4, "'l'he Preparation and Submission of Planning Schemes", were approved by the Governor in Council.

8. These Regulations, which rescind and supersede Regulations No. 1, were rendered necessary by certain amendments to the Act in 1948. In addition to incorporating matters resulting from amendments to the Act, Regulations No. 4 contain a more extensive schedule of mapping notation for use in the preparation of planning scheme maps.

9. In view of the increasing demand by public authorities and other bodies for copies of planning schemes, both during the exhibition period and after approval, a system of black and white notation has been devised to enable copies of maps to be produced quickly and cheaply by a responsible authority. The notation has been advised in such a way as to enable copies of maps, prepared in black and white, to be also coloured. 10. An example of the use of this notation is shmvn on the map of the Moe­ Newborough Planning Scheme appended to this report. 11. Under Regulations No. 4, coloured maps are required for exhibition purposes, for obtaining the approval of the Governor in Council, and for lodging in accordance with the Act, but for all other purposes black and white notation may be used without further colouring.

PLANNING SCHEMES-GENERAL. 12. During the past year the number of councils engaged in the preparation of a planning scheme under the Town and Country Planning Acts has steadily increased, and at the present time, 50 councils are indiyidually planning a portion or all of their municipality. ·In some cases a. council is preparing a scheme for more than one area of its municipality, bringing the total number of individual council schemes, either in course of preparation or completed, to 66. TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING BOARD

PLANNING IN VICTORIA AT 30TH JUNE 1952

AEfERENCE

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5CHEt.A ES BY JOINT COMMITTEES SCHEMES BY THE BOARD

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SCHEME BY M EL BOURNE AND MElROPOLITA N BOARD Of WOA.KS 9

13. Apart from the individual schemes being prepared, 42 municipalities are embraced within the metropolitan area being planned by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of \Vorks and a further 17 municipalities comprising 4 joint planning committees are engaged with adjoining councils in the preparation of joint planning schemes. 14. Of 199 municipalities in Vietoria no less than 94 are benefiting from the preparation of a planning scheme under the provisions of the Town and Country Planning Acts. 15. Powers of interim control are being exercised by most municipalities to guide development during the planning period and there are in operation as at 30th June, 57 interim development orders. It is interesting to record that 13 of these are being operated by individual councils within the metropolitan area being planned by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works. 16. rrhe following is a list of planning schemes m course of preparation or completed as at 30th June, 1952 :-

Interl1n l'opula· Development Exhibition Scheme. tion in Commem·erL Order Period Remark~. Area. Approved. l~xpire\l.

CmrMEXCED PRIOR To 30TH JuNE, 1951. (Position as at 30th June, 1952.) Cities. I I Ararat 6,500 9.6.47 22.7.47 19.6.52 Objections being considered Ballarat 40,000 13.10.47 28.3.50 Possibility of joint planning com­ mittee being investigated *Brunswick 28.3.49 I 30.4.4\l Approved by Governor in Council on 25th October, 1949 *Camberwell 19.3 51 15.5.51 In course of preparation *Chelsea 21.10.46 16.3.51 *Coburg .. 3.10.49 25.10.49 6.12.50 Approved by Governor in Council on 21st August, 1951 *Essendon (part only) 10.5.48 . ' *Fitzroy .. 3.5.48 ~ 31.10.50 I Hamilton .. 7,500 12.9.46. 15.10.46 12.6.50 Draft scheme being revised as 1 a result of objections *Heidclberg (1} (part only} I 27 .11..50 i *Heidelberg (2) (part only) ' 9.7.51 25.9.51 *Heidelberg (3) (part only) 24.9.51 23.10.51 Horsham .. 7,000 3.9.46 1.10.46 Inactive .Mildura 10,500 8.5.47 21.11.50 Proceeding *Moorabbin (1) (part only) .. 1.11.48 23.8.51 Awaiting approval of the Governor in Council *Moorabbin (2) (part only) .. 4. 4 .41) *Nunawading (part only) 16.12.46 1.'3.2.51 7.12.49 : Approved by Governor in Council

1 on 15th May, 1951 *Prahran .. 17.7.50 i Considerably advanced *Sandringham (1) (part only) 16.7.46 3.3.47 24.6.48 ' Approved by Governor in Council on 26th April, 1949 *Sandringham (amending) 5.12.50 5.2.51 [ Approved by Governor in Council : on 28th August, 1951 Sheflparton 10,000 9.8.48 {9.11.48 } Draft "scheme" nearing completion 26.7.49 Warrnambool 10,000 26.9.50 I Joint planning committee with ' being considered Towns.

Castlemaine 6,00() 1 21.11.46 25.3.47 Inactive Colac 7,000 23.6.48 10.8.48 Inactive Portland 4,000 I 20.8.46 15.10.46 Part of Portland and District Joint Committee Boroughs. Benalla 5,500 23.5.49 28.2.50 Possibility of formation of joint committee with being examined Maryborough 6,500 1.7.48 21.12.48 *Ringwood (part only) 19.4.51 22.5.51 Swan Hill .. 5,000 7.3.50 4.4.50 \Vangaratta 9,000 30.6.47 15.11.4\l Part of Wangaratta and District Joint Committee

* lnduderl ln Greatf'r J.[ellJOlirnR Area. 10

Popula· Interim Uevelopmf'nt Exllbition ~chenw. tion in Comtncncecl. Period ltern•rks. I Area, O:·

Shire.~. I 1 Ballarat (part only) 1,000 15.6.49 5.7.49 Draft scheme nearing completion Berwick (Pakenham Township) 500 21.8.50 19.12.50 Berwick (Berwick Township) .500 18.9.50 19.12.50 Berwick (Princes Highway) 19.2.51 16.3.51 *Broadmeadows (1) (part only) 28.10.48 20.10.49 Awaiting approval of the Governor in Council *Broadmeadows (2) (part only) 24.5.51 19.6.51 Buln Buln (Drouin and Long- 1,500 21.11.49 28.2.50 warry) Colac (part only) .. 1,000 8.11.48 Corio (part only) .. 5,000 28.8.46 17.9.45 Included in Scheme for Geelong Euroa (township only) 2,500 11.9.46 12.11.46 *F'rankston and Hastings (part 10,000 5.3.48 11.9.51 Well advanced -DUly) Grenville (part only) 500 2.8.47 2.9.47 Mansfield (township only) 800 4.5.49 26.7.49 Mornington 3,000 8.7.49 11.10.49 Morwell (Morwell Township) 9,000 17 .3.48 27.4.48 }18.4.50 Objections determined and draft { 15.8.51 7.11.51 scheme amended Narracan (Moe-Newborough) 11,000 12.8.45 12.11 ..15 11.3.52 Objections determined and draft scheme amended Numurkah (township only) .. 2,500 11.8.47 2.9.47 Draft scheme prepared Portland (Heywood) 900 9.8.46 27.8.46 Seymour (township only) 3,000 9. 9.45 23.11.48 30.4.52 Objections being considered Swan Hill (Robinvale) 250 13.5.47 10.5.47 Traralgon (township only) 9,000 5.9.46 14.1.47 } Draft scheme nearing completion { 4.8.49 23.8.49 Tungamah (Cobram) 1,000 5.8 .45 3.9.'16 1 '6 .49 Approved by Governor in Council on 19th December, 1950 Warragul (township only) 5,000 13.5.47 22.7.47 7.3.52 Objections being considered *Werribee (Altona Riding) .. 17.10.46 21.3.51 16.9.49 Draft scheme being revised Werribee ((Werribee Township) 3,500 17.10.45 25.3.47 *Werribee (Laverton Township) 17.10.46 3.7.51

Joint Committees. Geelong and District com- 60,000 14.9.46 17.12.46 Draft scheme nearing completion prising- City of Gee long West and Chilwell {part) (part) Shire of Bellarine (part) (part) Shire of South Barwon (part)

Board as Re.~ponsible Authority. Eildon Sub-Region 2,300 30.11. 49 12.2.50 1.5 .52 Scheme adopted and ready for submission for approval of the Governor in Council Gelliondale 500 19.2.51 18.12.51 Area being protected by interim development order Latrobe Valley Suh-Region .. 5,000 28.7.48 13.9.49 25.5.50 : Approved by Governor in Council on 24th July, 1951 Tvers Township .. 150 30.10.50 7.8.51 30.4.52 Nearing completion y"allourn North Township 1,500 30.10.50 31.7.51 30.L52 Nearing completion

Melbourne. and Metropolitan Board of Works as Respansible Authority. Greater Melbourne (comprising 1,400,000j 11.1. 50 Scheme proeeeding to schedult> (42) municipal dis- as required by the Act

* In Greater Melbourne Area. 11

Interim DcvPiopment Exhibition bcht>rlH.'. Order P~riod Remarka. Approved. Expired. I CoMMEXCED SII>.'CE lsT JULY, 1951. (Position as at 30th 'June, 1952.)

Citie.~.

*Brunswick (2) (amending 26.5.52 I 15.7.52 30.6. 52 Objections being considered scheme) *Preston .. 18.2.52 4.3.52 Proceeding

Shires.

Mansfield (Jamieson Township) 250 2 .4.52 Morwell (Boolarra Township) 300 23.4.52 27.5.52 Advancing satisfactorily Mm·well (Herne's Oak Town- 600 15.8.51 Held in abeyance pending decision ship} on extension of coal areas l\lorwell (Yinnar) 250 15.8.51 7.11.51 On public exhibition till 7th August, 1952 *Mulgrave 9,000 16.8.51 2.10.51 Existing Conditions l\1ap being completed Narracan (Trafalgar and Yarra- 2,500 19.7.51 gon Townships and surround- ing area) Numurkah (Katunga Town- 100 17.4.52 Well advanced ship} Tambo (Lakes Entrance Town- 1,100 18.6.52 ship}

Joint Cornrnittees. i Wangaratta and District com- 10,000 12.7.51 I 30.8.51 I Progressing satisfactorily prising~ Borough of W angaratta Shire of Oxlev Shire of Wangaratta Portland and· District com­ 4,500 Area not yet defined prising- Town of Portland Shire of Portland Bendigo and District compris- 39,000 Joint Planning Committee being ing~- formed Shire of Huntlv Shire of Maror{g

Board as Respousible Authority.

Club Terrace Township (Shire 50 30.5.52 24.6.52 Basic information being sought of Orbost)

* In UrPakr Jielbonme Art•a.

Population in Planning Areas outside Greater Melbourne 325,050 Population in Greater Melbourne Planning Area l ,400,000

Population subject to planning 1,725,050

Estimated population of Victoria 2,300,000 12

LATROBE VALLEY SUB-REGIONAL PLANNING SCHEME. 17. The Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme, prepared under the provisions of the Town and Country Planning Acts and in accordance with your instructions, was handed to you on 26th February, 1951, and was approved by the Governor in Council on the 24th .July, 1951.

18. Upon the approval of the planning scheme steps were taken to have the ordinance printed and the scheme map reproduced for distribution to Government Departments, interested authorities, and municipal councils in the area. Sufficient copies were retained by the Government Printer for sale to persons interested in the development of the area.

19. Although the scheme was prepared by, and at the expense of the Town and Country Planning Board, each of the four constituent municipal councils in the area became the responsible authority for the implementation and enforcement of that portion of the scheme which is contained within their respective municipal boundaries. 20. The huge deposits of brown coal in this sub-region and the potentialities of development, without doubt, make this area the most valuable in the State. The activities of the many authorities which have been directly and indirectly devoted to the exploitation of these resources, in an effort to provide power and fuel for the State, have resulted in a rapidity of development unequalled in any other part of Victoria. 21. All of the various undertakings and works are proceeding within the framework of the sub-regional planning scheme which, while not restricting the activities of any authority, enables development and co-ordination which would not be possible without the guidance of the plan and the protection and preservation of future activities which it gives. 22. The development of the sub-region is being largely carried out by Government and semi-Government Departments and, in many cases, this involves the carrying out of works by municipalities and other authorities much in advance of normal requirements. This often necessitates the expenditure of funds on works which are for the benefit of more than one authority and not the statutory obligation of any particular one. This difficulty was largely overcome when the Latrobe Valley Development Loan and Application Act 1949 was passed. This Act enabled the Government, on the recommendation of the Latrobe Valley Development Advisory Committee, to provide funds for such matters. 23. Under this Act funds could be provided for approved works carried out by any public authority or to any responsible authority under the Town and Country Planning Acts towards meeting compensation for lands purchased or taken or injured or prejudicially affected by the making or carrying out of any planning scheme or interim development order under those Acts in the Latrobe Valley. 24. The Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme provides a working example of how protection can be afforded to huge national assets under the provisions of the Town and Country Planning Acts, while at the same time permitting and encouraging legitimate private development.

ABATTOIRS. 25. When the Board was planning the area, the Victorian Inland Meat Authority and the Health Commission were consulted as to the desirability of zoning an area m which abattoirs and associated industries could be established. 26. After full consideration, the Board recommended an area south of the main railway, and east of the Morwell township, for these purposes. The State Electricity Commission and the Shire of Morwell were favorable to this location and the Latrobe Valley Development Advisory Committee assisted materially in the rather difficult negotiations. 27. In due course a report submitted by the Victorian Inland Meat Authority to the Minister of Agriculture in November, 1951, resulted in a Government decision to proclaim an Inland Meat District in the sub-region. 13

28. The area finally selected as the site for the abattoirs is that originally determined by the Board and is situated centrally in the sub-region, with the best possible railway and road access and enables the ultimate economical disposal of trade effluent. The area enables provision to be made for abattoirs, saleyards, and resting paddocks, and its adjacency to the main Gippsland railway enables rail facilities to be economically provided as an extension of the projected railway goods yards east of ~Iorwell.

GAs AND FeEL CoRPORATION. 29. The planning scheme as approved makes provision for the reservation of a route by-passing Morwell on the east and linking Yinnar with Tyers. This route was selected as the result of a conference comprising representatives of the State Electricity Commission, Country Roads Board, Morwell Shire Council, and the Gas and Fuel Corporation which was convened with the object of reconciling certain objections to the road layout as suggested in the report originally submitted. 30. This road· reservation passes through the south-eastern corner of the large site subsequently acquired by the Gas and Fuel Corporation and follows the route of a probable diversion of the .iVIorwell River proposed by the State Electricity Commission. The route suggested for the diversion of the Morwell River is, from a contructional viewpoint, the most economical possible. 31. Kotwithstanding the fact that the adopted routes for the road and river diversions generally met with the approval of the interested authorities, the Gas and Fuel Corporation has strongly pressed for an amendment of the scheme so as to re-locate these proposed works outside the gas-works area. 32. As at the date of this report there has been no decision because of the conflicting viewpoints, but the problem is still the subject of negotiation.

0UTFALL SEWER. 33. In the Board's original report on the Latrobe Valley Sub-Region, it was urged that steps be taken to ensure that all the new developments in the Valley did not cause further pollution of the Latrobe River. Following this, the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission obtained an expert report by Messrs. H. G. Furphy and C. \V. Candy, which recommended the construction of an outfall sewer into which all wastes should be diverted. 34. Legislation, by means of The Latrobe Valley Drainage Act, has now made provision for the construction of the sewer, and for regulating the control of all wastes and effluents through an authority, that has been designated The Latrobe Valley Drainage Board, for the future administration of this problem. 35. The Board welcomes this decision. It is not only a highly desirable policy in respect of the wastes from the Gas and Fuel Corporation, the abattoirs, the State Electricity Commission installations, and the Paper Mills, but it will protect the Latrobe River and in due course permit that stream to return to something near its former unpolluted state. 36. It is anticipated that the new 52 miles long outfall sewer from Yallourn to the sea at Letts Beach, beyond Sale, will be completed in 1955.

RAIIiWA y CROSSI~GS. 37. The electrification of the Gippsland railway between Dandenong and Traralgon, and the probable introduction of more frequent and faster goods and passenger trains in the sub-region, caused consideration to be given to those crossings of the railways required by the planning scheme roads in the sub-region and in the towns. After consultation with the Victorian Railways and the Councils in the area, satisfactory locations, which enable a future separation of railway and roadway levels, were selected where traffic conditions now or in the future would appear to warrant a separation of grades. 14

SHIRE OF N ARRACAN. ~iOE-KEWBOROUGH PLANNING SCHEME. 38. The planning scheme for Moe and N ewborough was completed and made available for public exhibition and objection on 11th December, 1951. 39. As stated in the Board's Sixth Annual Report, the remarkable growth of this joint town from a population of about 1,200 in 1946 to its present population of approximately 9,000 was achieved largely within the framework ofthe planning proposals advanced earlier by the Council. The Council and the Board have maintained cordial and close relations throughout the whole of this important period. 40. The Moe-Newborough area affords an excellent example of how planning proposals are implemented as development proceeds. Seldom does it occur in one town that so many planning proposals become established in such a short time. The Shire of Narracan, by the operation of interim control, has gained for the towns of Moe and Newborough a generally accepted planning scheme. This gave the necessary guidance at the right time to the many individual contributors to town building and the result will reflect much to the credit of the local government administration in this area in the years to follow. 41. The good work already done and the development to follow will be further protected and guided when the scheme is submitted and approved by the Governor in Council. 42. The planning scheme map, which appears in this Report, illustrates the general proposals for this area and also serves as an example of how the hachures and symbols of Regulations No. 4 may be employed to enable the easy reproduction of scheme maps in black and white.

YALLOURN NORTH PLANNING SCHEME. 43. The planning scheme for Yallourn North completed its exhibition period on 30th April, 1952. This scheme was prepared by the Board at your request and, subsequent to the receipt of objections, the Board visited the area and held a meeting at the Shire Hall, Trafalgar, when all interested persons were permitted to verbally support any written objections. 44. The plan was completed and the ordinance amended after dealing _with the objections. They will be forwarded to you at an early date for the approval of the Governor in Council. 45. The Board desires to record with appreciation the co-operation and assistance received from the Council and officers of the Shire of Narracan and from the State Electricity Commission during the planning period. Some difficulties have been experienced, especially in preventing the re-establishment, on other sites within the town area, of shack buildings sold, for removal from the old township, by the State Electricity Commission. One of the principal purposes of the scheme was to control " squatting " and a repetition of the bad conditions that previously applied. 46. The population of Yallourn North has now grown to approximately 1,500 and is mostly housed in neat new homes erected by the State Electricity Commission. Private development includes the building of a new hotel set well back from the streets and providing parking space for motor vehicles, as called for by the scheme. The requirements of all public authorities have, after consultation and negotiation, been generally satisfied.

SHIRE OF MoRWELL. MORWELL PLANNING SCHEME. 47. In the Sixth Annual Report the Board advised that, although the Morwell Planning Scheme had passed through the ex~ibition period, the plan had not yet been submitted for the approval of the Governor m CounciL 48. The Board conferred. with the Council in May last, at Morwell, when an endeavour was made tD reconcile some of the features of the scheme on which the Council sought clarification. Although the scheme has not yet been approved, the Council has, under its interim development order, steadfastly caused its provisions to be observed in all new works. SCHEDULE

SCALE

1000 .aOoo FEET

REFERENCE LAND USE AGRICULTURAL A ZONE AGRICULTURAL 'B' ZONE RESIDENTIAL 'A ZONE RESIDENTIAL '6 ZONE COMMERCIAL 'A' ZONE COMMERCIAL 'e' ZONE COMMERCIAL 'c' ZONE COMMERCIAL 'D' ZONE LIGHT INDUSTRIAL ZONE GENERAL INDUSTRIAL ZONE SPECIAL USES ZONE RESERVATIONS EXISTING PUBLIC PURPOSE RESERVE PROPOSED PUBLIC PURPOSE RESERVE EXISTING PUBLIC OPEN SPACE '-PROI'O~;ED PUBLIC OPEN SPACE COMMUNICATION RAILWAY EXISTING MAIN ROADS EXISTING SECONDARY ROADS EXISTING MINOR ROADS PROPOSED MAl N ROADS PROPOSED SECONDARY ROADS PROPOSED M I NOR ROADS ROADS TO BE CLOSED

PLANNING SCHEME BOUNDARY

A CHILDRENS PLAYGROUND B PARK & PUBLIC RESERVE C RECREATION RESERVE D STREAM RESERVE E TREE PLANTATION F RECREATION RESERVE 8. CAR PARK G) PRIMARY SCHOOL @ SECONDARY SCHOOL @ SEWAGE TREATMENT WORKS @ POST OFFICE @ CIVIC CENTRE @ COMMUNITY CENTRE (i) RAILWAY PURPOSES @ RELIGIOUS PURPOSES ® CEMETERY @ RESERVOIR @ HOSPITAL @ FIRE STATION @ PUBLIC HALL @ INFANT WELFARE CENTRE @ BUS STATION SCHEDULE

SCALE 2 tooo o 1000 2:000 3000 FEET

REFERENCE LAND USE AGRICULTURAL A ZONE AGRICULTURAL 'B' ZONE RESIDENTIAL 't. ZONE RESIDENTIAL '8 ZONE COMMERCIAL 'A' ZONE COMMERCIAL 'B' ZONE COMMERCIAL 'c' ZONE COMMERCIAL 'D' ZONE LIGHT INDUSTRIAL ZONE GENERAL INDUSTRIAL ZONE SPECIAL USES ZONE RESERVATIONS EXISTING PUBLIC PURPOSE RESERVE c:::J PROPOSED PUBLIC PURPOSE RESERVE !i:::li] EXISTING PUBLIC OPEN SPACE k < '] PROPOSED PUBLIC OPEN SPACE ~ COMMUNICATION RAILWAY EXISTING MAl N ROADS EXISTING SECONDARY ROADS EXISTING MINOR ROADS PROPOSED MAIN ROADS PROPOSED SECONDARY ROADS PROPOSED M I NOR ROADS ROADS TO BE CLOSED PLANNING SCHEME BOUNDARY SCHEDULE

A CHILDRENS PLAYGROUND B PARK & PUBLIC RESERVE c RECREATION RESERVE D STREAM RESERVE E TREE PLANTATION F RECREATION RESERVE & CAR PARK

'' 15 49. The Council now appreciates the fact that certain provisions of the planning scheme, particularly those prescribing areas of land for specific uses, would be able tD be enforced upon the approval of the scheme without risk of liability for compensation. It was pointed out to the Council that, in endeavouring to implement the plan under the provisions of an interim development order, they may not be immune from claims for compensation for such matters under existing legislation. 50. This Council was one of the first to avail itself of Town and Country Planning legislation and has since demonstrated its appreciation of the benefits to be derived from planning by having schemes prepared for ·the to,vnships of Yinnar and Boolarra. The Council has now intimated that the Morwell Planning Scheme will be finalized \Vith the object of submitting it at an early date for the approval of the Governor in Council.

HERNE'S OAK PLANNING SCHEME. 51. The approval of the Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme in July, 1951, had the effect of making the township of Herne's Oak a residential area in which business and industry are prohibited until such time as a detailed planning scheme is prepared and approved. 52. In view of the great demand at that time for housing, it was not considered prudent to endeavour to restrict residential development. It was considered, however, that the area would require some plan to guide the re-subdivision of the existing allotments of land, which generally had an area of one acre, into smaller allotments, and also make provision for the necessary business and commercial activities of the town. 53. Since the approval of the sub-regional planning scheme, the Council of the Shire of Morwell has resolved to prepare such a scheme which, if approved, would have the effect of amending the Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme insofar as it relates to Herne's Oak. 54. The present development of Herne's Oak is restricted to the area included in the Crown subdivision of Haunted Hills. This subdivision enabled the sale of blocks of approximately one acre to those persons who had already built "shacks" in the locality. Subsequent to the subdivision of the area buildings of a more permanent character have been erected and the population is now estimated to be in the vicinity of 600. 55. The area surrounding the subdivision is controlled by the State Electricity Commission as a works area on the east, west, and north, and by the Crown on the south. Recent investigations by the State Electricity Commission have revealed that winnable coal underlies the township and that, when the Yallourn open cut is extended close to Herne's Oak, the extraction of the coal from the township area, after allowing for the acquisition of land and improvements, would still be more economical than that of obtaining a similar quantity of coal in newer workings. 56. The future of Herne's Oak is a matter for determination by the authorities concerned, and until a decision is reached or an amending scheme under the Town and Country Planning Acts is approved, the provisions of the Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme are operative. In the meantime, the planning scheme affords all possible protection to both the State Electricity Commission and the present home owners, and especially ensures that the ultimate cost of acquisition by the State Electricity Commission will not be increased beyond residential values.

YINNAR PLANNING SCHEME. 57. A planning scheme for this town was submitted for public exhibition for the required period of three months in May of this year. This town was one of those excluded from the Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme as the Council had already resolved to prepare a scheme for the area. 58. It is considered that this town will grow more rapidly in the future as a result of general intense activity in the sub-region and may become more favoured by some people preferring rural communities rather than the larger centres of population and industry. The planning scheme would enable about 1,200 people to be housed in the residential areas allotted in the plan, and this would be about four times the present population. The scheme also makes provision for business, industrial, and recreational requirements for such a population. 59. Objections to the planning scheme, received during the exhibition period, are now being considered by the CounciL 16

BOOLARRA PLANNING SCHEME. 60. During the year the Morwell Shire Council decided to confer the benefits of planning legislation on the small township of Boolarra. 61. Rapid progress with the preparation of the planning scheme was made after formally resolving to plan, and at the 30th June the scheme was about to be placed on exhibition. 62. This township is outside the limits of the Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme but is sufficiently close to the development in the valley to be materially affected thereby, as the local demand for primary produce increases. 63. Planning proposals are likely to be modest as far as residential provisions are concerned, with a planned population of about 1,200 for the next few years.

SHIRE OF TRARALGON. TRARALGON PLANNING SCHEME. 64. The Shire Council has during the year made considerable progress towards the completion of the planning scheme for Traralgon and is now in the position that development along the lines of its planning proposals can, with a great measure of confidence, be guided under the powers of the interim development order. This town is continuing to expand rapidly and is still the scene of much house building by the Australian Paper Manufacturers Limited. 65. Additional recreation alareas shown as a part of the planning proposals are being investigated with a view to their early acquisition and with the knowledge that such areas are located in the best interests of the people and not in conflict with other phases of town development. 66. The early submission of the planning scheme to the people for its three months exhibition period is anticipated.

TYERS PLANNING SCHEME. 67. As stated in the Sixth Annual Report a planning scheme for the small township of Tyers has been prepared by the Board with the concurrence of the Traralgon Shire Council and in accordance with your request of 30th October, 1950. 68. JJ'ollowing the exhibition period which expired in April, 1952, the Board held a special meeting at Tyers, which was later adjourned to Traralgon to enable objectors to verbally support previously submitted written objections. Most of the objections were of a constructive nature and were offered as comments and suggestions rather than as objections to the provisions of the planning scheme. 69. In the preparation of the planning scheme close liaison was maintained with the Traralgon Shire Council and public and private authorities concerned with the development of the township. Objections to the scheme were dealt with in consultation with the Council. 70. A unique feature of the scheme for Tyers is that, through negotiation and exchange of lands during the planning period, several of the provisions of the scheme have been assured of easy implementation when the necessity arises. A great deal of the credit for the success of these negotiations must be given to the Traralgon Shire Council and its officers. 71. One of the provisions of the scheme is the setting aside of two areas as sanctuaries for the preservation of existing local flora. Through the instigation of Miss J. Galbraith, who is a member of the Native Plants Preservation Society of Victoria, Australian Paper Manufacturers Limited generously set aside an area of approximately 3! acres in the town as a nature reserve. 72. Miss Galbraith also owned a small area in the township, which had been preserved in its natural state and contained many specimens of Gippsland wild flowers. Many additional specimens had subsequently been added by periodic transplanting from other areas over many years, and she desired that the area should be protected and preserved as a part of the planning scheme. The Council of the , at the suggestion of this Board, acquired the area for a sanctuary and agreed that Miss Galbraith would have the enjoyment of it for as long as she desired. The area is now included as a part of the planning scheme. 17

73. This action on the part of the Council is only another illustration of the practical help and co-operation that has been extended to the Board by the local authorities in the sub-region. 74. The Board has now resolved the few objections to the planning scheme and its early submission for the approval of the Governor in Council is expected.

EII,DON SlJB-REGIONAL PLAN~ING SCHEJ\fK 75. In the Fifth Annual Report reference was made to the Board having been requested to prepare a planning scheme for a portion of the , which included the new Eildon Tovvnship. Reference was made at that time to the reasons which prompted the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission to urge that the land in the vicinity of the Big Eildon project be brought under planning control. 76. In the Sixth Annual Report mention was made that a draft scheme had been prepared, eopies of which were given to the Commission and the Council of the Shire of AlE:xandra for comment before the scheme was plaeed on exhibition. Meanwhile development was being guided under the powers of an interim development order eovering the whole of the area being planned. The views of public authorities and Government Departments were sought prior to the public exhibition of the planning scheme in order that it would not be necessary to make drastic alterations to the scheme because of objections that might he avoided by such consultations. 77. During the current year the scheme was placed on exhibition and, because of the close liaison referred to, only one objection was received, that being from the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission. Changing conditions during the building of Eildon Township had caused the Commission to raise certain matters for the Board's further consideration. The Board is now able to report that these matters have been satisfactorily adjusted. 78. As at the 30th .June the planning scheme is almost ready for submission to you for the approval of the Governor in Council but there have been some developments in Thornton Township and thereabouts which will need to be incorporated before the scheme can be completed.

GELLIONDALE SUB-REGIONAL PLANNING SCHE~1E. 79. The Board recorded in its last Annual Report that it had been requested to prepare a planning scheme for an area at Gelliondale and Welshpool comprising parts of the Shires of Alberton and South Gippsland. It will be recalled that the purpose of the scheme was in the first instance to protect the area from indiscriminate and speculative development pending a determination of the manner in which the brown coal deposits were to be exploited. 80. Much of the existing conditions data has now been obtained having largely been furnished by the Councils of the Shires mentioned above. Arrangements have been made with the Department of Lands and Survey for aerial photographs and suitable contour maps to be prepared for planning purposes. 81. The Board, however, is unable to report much progress with the drafting of planning proposals, because no indications are available of the nature and extent of the industrial development contemplated in the sub-region. Meanwhile development outside the existing towns is being regulated under the powers of an interim development order made by the Board, and no difficulties are being experienced.

CLVB 'l'ERRACE PLANNING SCHEME. 82. A proposal by the Forests Commission to enable the establishment of further saw mills at Club Terrace in the , and allow for the housing of those engaged in the timber industry, which could result in the growth of a township with a population of 300 or more, led to this Board being instructed to prepare a planning scheme for an area of approximately three square miles at Club Terrace. 83. This area, which comprises Crown and Forest lands and a small area of private property, ~will be planned in close consultation with the Lands Department and the Forests Commission. 6989/52.-2 18

84. The area selected for inclusion in the planning scheme was brought under interim development control on the 24th June, and permits for development, during the planning stage, will be issued in accordance with the provisions of the final scheme. 85. In the past it has frequently been the case for mill-workers' quarters to be clustered around the working area of the mill, subject to the nuisances of dust, noise, smoke, and generally unpleasant circumstances associated with such areas. Conditions such as these contribute to the " drift to the city " and add to the difficulties of obtaining rural labour. 86. At Club Terrace the opportunity now exists to prevent such conditions developing. Mills will be located in an industrial area conveniently placed for operations, while housing for the mill workers will be sited in a small, self-contained residential area where it is possible to supply the amenities of a small township. It is hoped that Club Terrace will be the forerunner of other schemes where similar conditions occur.

GEELONG AND DISTRICT TOWN PLANNING SCHEME. 87. The planning scheme for the Geelong district in which eight municipalities are concerned, has considerably advanced during the past year, and it is hoped that it will be ready for exhibition early in 1953. 88. Planning control has been consistently exercised by the Geelong and District Town Planning Committee under the powers of its interim development order, and the rapid development of the last few years has been guided in conformity with the scheme in preparation. Considerable housing development has occurred in the planned residential areas, while large industrial undertakings of major importance to the future of Geelong have been facilitated in finding suitable locations. 89. A route for a major by-pass road through the rural areas west of Geelong has been the subject of a preliminary field survey by the Country Roads Board in order that its location may be protected by incorporation in the planning scheme. 90. Co-operation with Governments Departments such as the Education Department has resulted in the reservation of suitable sites for future Government buildings. The activities of the Victorian Housing Commission in the Nof}ane area, which have throughout been co-ordinated with the Committee's planning, are keeping pace with the important industrial developments along the bay frontage in this area, in which the large scale developmental programme of the Geelong Harbour Trust will play a very large part.

PORTLAND AND DISTRICT JOINT PLANNING SCHEME. 91. In its Fourth and Fifth Annual Reports, the Board urged the necessity for a planning scheme to be prepared concurrently with the effect to be given to the new legislation constituting the Portland Harbour Authority. 92. In August, 1951, a conference was convened by the Council of the Town of Portland at which representatives of the Portland Town and Shire Councils, Portland Harbour Trust, as well as Cr. the Hon. H. V. MacLeod, M.L.C., and Mr. R. W. Holt, M.LA., discussed the formation of a joint planning committee. This meeting was attended by the Chairman and Secretary of the Board, and the procedure to be followed in the constitution of a joint planning committee was explained and planning matters aenerallv were discussed. The conference resolved to recommend to the respective ·Council~ that a joint planning committee be formed to act as the responsible authority for the preparation of a planning scheme. 93. Towards the end of last year the joint planning committee was formally constituted and was composed of equal representatives from both Councils. The cost of preparation of the scheme is to be borne in the proportion of 72t per cent. and 27t per cent. for the Town and Shire respectively. 94. It is noted that the area of planning, although not yet fixed in accordance with Regulations, is likely to be within a radius of 6 miles from the Portland Post Office and comprising 64 square miles more or less, of which 4t square miles is contained within the Town boundary. 95. Consultant. Town Planners were appointed in April and they have proceeded with the preparation of a suitable base map and the collection of essential existing conditions data. 1!}

96. The Portland Harbour Trust is evincing interest in the preparation of the planning scheme and close liaison between the Joint Planning Committee, Consultant Planners, and the Trust is being maintained. This should ensure that proper co-ordination between future port facilities and the Town as a whole will be effected. 97. The Town of Portland has notified its intention to borrow £1,500 for permanent works and undertakings, for defraying its share of the cost of preparation of the planning scheme. 98. The Board has been specially pleased at this development in an area where so much benefit can be derived by using the Town and Country Planning legislation concurrently with the early stages of the work that is proceeding under the Portland Harbour scheme.

WANGARATTA SUB-REGIONAL PLANNING SCHEME. 99. During the early part of 1951 the Wangaratta Borough Council conferred with representatives of the Councils of the two neighbouring Shires of Oxley and Wangaratta as to theldesirability of regulating development along main roads leading into the to~rn, and to prevent the premature subdivision of good agricultural lands and scattered housing d<~velopment in areas which would be costly and uneconomic to serve with water supply and sewerage, &c. 100. The representatives of the Councils concerned considered that the best way of achieving these results and guiding development was by means of a planning scheme using the powers available under the Town and Country Planning Acts and they agreed to form a joint committee of the Borough of Wangaratta, Shire of Wangaratta, and for planning purposes. 101. The joint committee defined a planning area of 68 square miles, which includes the 8! square miles comprising the Borough. The whole of the development in this area is now controlled under the provisions of an interim development order which waB approved by the Governor in Council. 102. Probably no other town in the north-eastern part of Victoria has experienced more rapid development in the past few years than Wangaratta. Its further growth under the guidance of a planning scheme must result in it becoming one of the more important towns in the State forming as it does the centre of an extensive rural district where existing important secondary industries will enable the absorption of local labour and encourage further development of this kind. 103. The joint committee appointed Mr. E. M. Harvey, Borough Engineer, as planning officer. Mr. Harvey had, prior to this appointment, done valuable work in the investigation of existing conditions and the preparation of a preliminary planning scheme for the Borough and is therefore well equipped to advise the committee on planning matters and applications for development during the interim control period.

BENDIGO AND DISTRICT .JOINT PLANNING SCHEME. 104. On the 21st May, 1951, a conference, comprising representatives of the Councils of the City of Bendigo, , and the Shires of Huntly, Marong, and Strathfieldsaye, was held for the purpose of constituting a j-oint committee for the preparation of a planning scheme for Bendigo and District. 105. All the municipal representatives except those of the Borough of Eaglehawk agreed to the formation of a Bendigo and District Town Planning Committee. 106. The Chairman and Secretary of the Board attended the inaugural meeting of the committee on the 18th September and advised that, in order that the joint committee be placed on a proper basis in accordance with the Act and Regulations, each constituent Council should, by resolution, agree to join in the preparation of a joint planning scheme and nominate by name its representatives on the joint planning committee. 107. The Board is at present awaiting receipt of the formal resolution of the joint planning committee and a definition of the area to be planned. This step will mark the commencement of a planning scheme for a very important provincial city and its environs. It is a city that could achieve very great benefits from the successful O])eration of a joint planning committee. 20

CITY OF COBURG PLANNING SCHEME. 108. A small but useful planning scheme, prepared by the Council of the City of Coburg and approved by the Governor in Council during the year, features a provision for the development of the Bell-street arterial route and surrounding areas. This feature of the Scheme conforms with a similar provision in the planning scheme of the Shire of Broadmeadows, the adjoining municipality. 109. The result of these provisions wi.ll be to provide a continuous arterial road, westerly from Heidelberg, which will effect a junction with the future Calder Highway near the Essendon Aerodrome. 110. The reservation of land for the purpose of wi.dening Bell-street will ultimately result in the moving back of several existing houses. The subdivisional blocks in each case are deep and in no case will the depth be reduced to less than 135 feet. 111. The scheme also provides for the replanning of existing subdivisional allotments and the reservation of land for new roads to serve allotments where necessary.

CITY OF SANDIUNGHAM PLANNING SCHEME. 112. During the year a planning scheme to amend the City of Sandringham Planning Scheme 1948 has been prepared by the Council and approved by the Governor in Council on the 28th August, 1951. 113. The original scheme is varied by the amendment which decreases the areas set aside for industrial purposes and open space, and increases the areas for residential and public purposes. This change of use affects about 30 acres of the 570 acres included in the original planning scheme area. 114. Since the making of the original scheme, several large industrial undertakings have been established in the area in accordance with the zoning provisions. The proximity of attractive residential areas enables the work force, required for these industries, to live close to employment, with a consequent saving in time and travelling costs.

CITY OF MOORABBIN PLANNING SCHEME--SECTION 1. 115. A planning scheme, known as the City of Moorabbin Planning Scheme, Section 1, was completed during the year by the Council for an area of approximately 2,080 acres in the north-western portion of the municipality. The area is adjacent to the Frankston railway and is extensively built upon, mainly for residential purposes. This offered an opportunity to the Council to allot areas for business, shopping, industry, and recreation more in accordance with future needs and also to protect additional areas for residential development. 116. As required by the Act, you obtained the report from the Metropolitan Planning Authority, and from this Board on the Council's planning scheme. Various matters arising out of the objections and reports were investigated by this Board and the scheme, together with the Board's observations, was forwarded to you, recommending the approval of the Governor in Council, in February last. 117. The scheme, when approved, will enable the enforcement of better development in this area of Moorabbin. While it deals generally with important matters of local concern, it will be in aid of the general propos.als being considered by the Metropolitan Planning Authority.

CITY OF PRAHRAN PLANNING SCHEME. 118. Late in 1949 the Council of the City of Prahran arranged with the School of Architecture and the Department of Psychology of the University of Melbourne to undertake a civic survey of the municipality and the preparation of a report and draft planning scheme. The School of Social Studies was later invited to participate. The report and draft scheme, which was the collaborative effort of students and staff acting voluntarily, was completed in November, 1950. 119. Just prior to the completion of the survey and report the Council resolved to prepare a planning scheme in accordance with the Act and Regulations and made an interim development order for the whole of the City. 21

120. During the ClJrrent year the Council has been steadily proceeding with the drafting of a suitable ordinance and the drawing of the scheme map. Close co-operation with the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works is being maintained in order that the Council's proposals will not conflict with the comprehensive planning scheme being prepared for metropolitan Melbourne.

CITY OF CAMBERWELL PLANNING SCHEME. 121. A little more than one year has passed since the Council of the City of Camberwell resolved to prepare a planning scheme for the whole of its municipal district. 1n that time the Council has made a very careful and accurate study of existing conditions and has prepared a draft planning scheme which has enabled development to be controlled under the interim development order and in accordance with tentative planning proposals. No difficulties have been experienced to date in the operation of interim control. 122. The Council and its officers have kept in close contact with the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works in order that the detailed planning of Ca~berwell will be in harmony with the planning of adjacent areas and in conformity with the general proposals for the metropolitan area.

SHIRE OF BROADMEADOWS PLANNING SCHEME. 123. Towards the end of 1949 the Council of the Shire of Broadmeadows submitted for the approval of the Governor in Council, the planning scheme it had prepared for the southern portion of the municipality. At that time the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works was constituted the authority responsible for the preparation of a planning scheme covering metropolitan Melbourne. As a consequence, the views of the newly created planning authority had to be sought on the provisions of the scheme and the effect they would have on matters of a metropolitan nature. 124. The proposal of the Housing Commission to establish a large housing scheme in the area, and the proposed extensions to the Fawkner Cemetery, which were submitted after the preliminary planning proposals had been finalized, also contributed to the delay which has occurre~l in obtaining the approval of the Governor in Council to the planning scheme. 125. The Council has exercised control under an interim development order since the commencement of the !'lcheme and its officers have managed to keep abreast of changing eircumstances and have guided development along the lines of the planning proposals. It would now appear that the early approval of the planning scheme can be expected.

SHIRE OF TUNGAMAH (COBRAlVI) PLANNING SCH~JME No. 2. 126. In the Board's Sixth Annual Report it had the pleasure of publishing the map of the Cobram Planning Scheme and of reporting that it was the first scheme to be completed under the Town and Country Planning Acts. It was also recorded that many of the features of the plan had already been given effect. 127. The Council has since commenced the preparation of a small amending scheme, the effect of which will be to provide for further impending development and growth of the township of Cobram. The amending scheme will provide for an extension of the residential and industrial zones, and the possibility of a reserve for public purposes in the centre of the town, utilizing land at present under the control of the Railway Commissioners. 128. This land is portion of a three chain wide reserve more or less dividing the town and was set aside originally for the possible extension of the railway across the nearby River Murray into New South Wales. It is proposed to enable the future use of this reserve to be determined in the best interests of the local community, and the State as a whole. 129. If it were considered necessary, an alternative route for extending the railway could be protected in the planning scheme and the existing railway lands utilized to consolidate the town. The incorporation of these matters in a planning scheme will enable a thorough investigation to be made of the relative proposals and the views of interested authorities tq be expressed. 22

SHIRE OF WODONGA PLANNING SCHEME. 130. The town of \Vodonga, like the City of Albury on the opposite side of the River Murray, has rapidly developed during recent years, and the Council is at the moment contemplating the preparation of a planning scheme to overcome the problems attendant on such development. 131. A survey of existing conditions has been completed by the Shire, and certain planning proposals have been investigated. The City of Albury has already submitted a planning scheme to the New South \Vales Government, and it is hoped to effect the co-ordination of this plan with the planning scheme for the town of Wodonga. The future of the Hume Highway, which at present passes through the busiest sections of these two centres is a matter for early determination as a part of planning proposals. 132. The proximity of large Commonwealth defence and migration establishments to W odonga lends further importance to the town and makes more urgent the need for regulation of development. The livestock markets at W odonga are the largest in the State outside the :\Ielbourne metropolitan area and the preservation of stock routes independently of main traffic routes, and by-passing residential and business areas, is a matter known to be receiving consideration by the Council and the Country Roads Board. 133. The inter-relation of the important border towns of Albury and \Vodonga warrants a high degree of co-operation between the planning authorities in the two States. Efforts will be made to arrange, as planning progresses, for a conference between these authorities so that the respective planning schemes may be properly co-ordinated. It will not be overlooked that the future plans relating to uniform railway gauge would have a vital bearing on these planning schemes.

CITY OF SHEPPARTON PLANNING SCHEME. 134. Immediately prior to the passing of the To"\\.'11 and Country Planning Act, the then Borough of Shepparton had shown commendable enterprise in having a town plan prepared. Although this plan did not comply with the statutory provisions later enacted and the Regulations subsequently made, the plan served to guide thought and developments leading te the preparation of a planning scheme in accordance with the Act. 135. The Board has encouraged the Council and is now pleased to record that the is actively proceeding with the preparation of a planning scheme under the provisions of the Act. 136. Since the commencement of the preparation of the scheme much new development has been carried out in the municipality, and the Council, by the operation of interim development control over the developing areas of the City, has ensured that such development is in conformity with the provisions of its draft planning scheme. The scheme is now rapidly approaching the stage where it can be placed on public exhibition. SHIRE OF WARRAGUL PLANNING SCHEME. 137. · The planning scheme for the township of Warragul was commenced by the Shire in May, 1947, and an interim development order has operated since July, 1947. The completed scheme was placed on exhibition in December, 1951. The planning proposals and the objects of the scheme were then outlined at a public meeting arranged and presided over by the Shire President, and those present were informed that during the next three months they were entitled to record their objections to the scheme, and that any objections received would be considered by the Council at the expiration of this period. 138. This scheme is designed to protect the existing sound development of this progressive country centre of 5,000 people, and to regulate its future growth so that a desirable balance will be maintained between industry, commerce, and housing. The necessary amenities for the enjoyment of the townsfolk and of the people in the surrounding areas were included among the planning proposals. 139. By judicious use of interim control powers during the planning period, the Council has been able to guide development along the lines of the planning scheme. It is understood that the only notable objections to this comprehensive scheme, about which the Board has been consulted from time to time, relate to the proposed civic centre and the immediately adjacent areas. The early submission of the scheme for the approval of the Governor in Council is a waited. 23

SHIRE OF NUMURKAH. NUMURKAH PLANNING SCHEME. 140. The Board is able to report considerable progress in the preparation of the planning scheme for the township of Numurkah, a scheme commenced in August, 1947. During the year the Council has brought the planning scheme to the stage where it could be adopted and placed on statutory exhibition. The Council has kept in close contact vvith the Board and has also consulted the public authorities likely to be affected. 141. One of the noteworthy features of the plan will be the provision for the by-passing of the built-up area by the deviated Goulburn Valley Highway which will be protected as an arterial route by the restriction of access to designated points. The Council and the Country Roads Board are to be commended for establishing this principle which is being followed in other planning schemes where similar conditions exist. 142. The progress made by the Council in this planning scheme is such that it should be submitted for approval in the coming year.

KATUNGA PLANNING SCHEME. L43. The Soldier Settlement Commission has co-operated with the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission in preparing a plan for a township adjacent to the railway siding at Katunga, in the . These authorities concluded that a township was becoming necessary in this locality in order to serve the new development of the surrounding irrigation area. 144. When the scheme was brought to the notice of this Board, the view was expressed that the proposed plan was much too extensive especially as the established towns Numurkah and were equidistant only about six miles from Katunga. However, the State Rivers and \Vater Supply Commission persisted with its view, but accepted the recommendation for a township of reduced area to accommodate 500 people. 145. The Board, therefore, suggested to the local municipality that it should sponsor the planning scheme under the Town and Country Planning Acts, so as to protect both the township and its surrounding agricultural areas from unguided development. The Board is pleased to record that the Shire of Numurkah adopted the suggestion and that the preparation of the scheme has commenced in conjunction with the Soldier Settlement Commission and the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission.

~IE'l'ROPOLITAN PLANNING. ·146. Preliminary proposals in relation to traffic routes in the inner metropolitan area were contained in a technical paper circulated by the 1\felbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works in March of this year. These tentative proposals included traffic routes south of the River Yarra and a St. Kilda-road underpass to connect Alexandra-avenue and City-road with the object of making the Swan-street Bridge more effective. 147. The underpass now recommended by the Chief Planner of the Melbourne and ..1\Ietropolitan Board of Works is iri accordance with the alternative proposals submitted to you by this Board in February, 1951, and you were later informed of this Board's agreement with the proposal. The completion of the Swan-street Bridge and the St. Kilda-road underpass will provide a further connection in the roadway system south of the River Yarra as a part of the general preliminary proposals advanced by the Metropolitan Planning Authority, and an early start with the construction of this necessary improvement is awaited. 148. The pressing need for early action to relieve traffic congestion in the central area of Melbourne was again emphasized at a conference relating to traffic problems· in the metropolis which was convened by the Government in March of this year. 14H. The Town and Country Planning (1vletropolitan Area) Act 1949, which created the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works a responsible authority for planning in the metropolitan area, enables that Board, if it thinks fit, to submit a planning scheme for any integral part of the planning region in advance of the complete plan. If the traffic problems of the inner metropolitan area have to await the submission and approval of the plan for the whole area, after objections have been received, considered and determined, 24 a considerable time might elapse before any proposals for the inner area are approved. It is considered that a plan dealing with the proposals of the inner metropolitan area could, therefore, be submitted in advance of the general scheme and in sufficient detail to enable this part of the planning scheme to be approved. 150. These schemes have to be advanced beyond the stage of preliminary proposals, and the areas likely to be required for the implementation of them defined within reasonable limits, so that protection against large new capital expenditure and a corresponding increase in the cost of ultimate resumptions can be avoided. The early submission and approval of a planning scheme for this part of Melbourne would obviate the necessity for protecting the affected areas over an unduly long period by means of an interim development order, and would enable all efforts to be directed towards a realization of those parts of the statutory planning scheme in their order of urgency. 151. In this connection, the Board invites attention to the report submitted on 1st September, 1949, for the widening of Bridge-road, Richmond. It is considered that each detailed scheme for metropolitan improvement should be analyzed in that form. The Board regrets that no action has been taken on that report because it is believed that that scheme is an excellent example of works which could proceed without awaiting the comprehensive metropolitan proposals. 152. Unless some such action is taken, it would appear that the alleviation of traffic congestion in the inner metropolitan area will remain a subject of discussion of varying viewpoints instead of a programme of works which, on the completion of each stage, will bring a measure of relief to the intolerable conditions now existing, and ultimately make provision for the rapidly increasing traffic movements in this area. 153. In its Sixth Annual Report, as well as on other prior occasions, this Board has pressed the necessity of creating a " metropolitan improvement fund ", from which owners of property whose land is taken or prejudicially affected by the scheme, or an interim development order, could receive compensation, and through which "fund" the more urgent and obvious metropolitan improvements could be effected. The Board again emphasizes that legislation giving effect to such a " fund " would provide immediate means to effective action. 154. While the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of vVorks, as the Metropolitan Planning Authority, is preparing the plan for the whole area, seventeen individual metropolitan municipalities have resolved to prepare schemes within their municipal districts and in many cases have made considerable progress. These schemes generally deal with land zoning and other matters of local importance and the councils and this Board have maintained a liaison with the Metropolitan Planning Authority. Thirteen of these municipalities have interim development orders to enable supervision to be maintained while planning is in progress. 155. In furtherance of the consideration of inner metropolitan planning, a visit was made in January to the South Melbourne and Fishermen's Bend area by the Minister of Transport, the Hon. Sir Herbert Hyland, the Co-ordinator of Transport, Mr. T. S. Lingford, a Commissioner of Railways, Mr. A. G. Fletcher, the Chairman of the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board, Mr. R. J. H. Risson, the Chief Planner of the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works, Mr. E. F. Borrie, and the Chairman of this Board, Mr. F. C. Cook. 156. The object of the visit was to determine the type and probable routes of public transport to these areas so that such routes might be incorporated and dovetailed with other planning proposals. 157. It is considered that an early determination of this problem is essential and that similar action should be taken to define the route of any underground city railway, so that the necessary protection of the route and adjacent land uses may be incorporated in the metropolitan plan. OCEAN ROAD; 158. The Board has, for some time, been concerned with the manner in which the unusual scenic value of the Ocean-road, between Torquay and Apollo Bay, is likely to be greatly diminished unless plans for controlling the marginal lands and foreshore are laid down. Apart from the scenic aspect, ribbon development, if allowed to proceed unhindered or be not properly controlled between centres of population, will add to the already high cost of maintenance of this magnificent tourist rqad, which passe~ through generally steep and unstable country. · 25 159. Uncontrolled removal of forest and vegetative cover and a lack of proper drainage measures, associated with ribbon development, will undoubtedly worsen conditions already far from good. 160. The Board, together "rith a representative of the Country Roads Board, made a detailed inspection of the Ocean-road early in the year, as a result of which the Country Roads Board strongly supported the proposal that the Ocean-road be brought under planning control, together with a strip of seaside country between Torquay and Barwon Heads, which will in the future, include the extension of this famous tourist road. The Country Roads Board subsequently placed its view on this matter before you, and suggested the desirability of taking action under the Town and Country Planning Acts. 161. In regard to the matters raised by the Country Roads Board, which you referred to this Board for report, it was pointed out by this Board that a planning scheme under the Act would involve four municipalities, viz., the Shires of Barrabool, Otway, South Barwon, and Winchelsea, and that these Shires could appoint a joint planning committee to act as the responsible authority for the preparation of a statutory planning scheme. Alternatively, the respective Shire Councils could independently prepare a planning scheme for as much of the total planning area as is included in their municipal boundaries. You were also advised, however, that the difficulty of obtaining agreement between four municipalities in the preparation and adoption of such a planning scheme could be overcome if this Board were appointed the responsible authority for the preparation of the planning scheme. The observance and implementation of the final scheme, when approved, would ultimately revert to the responsibility of the Councils concerned. 162. In accordance with your directio~, the views of the Councils are being sought, and it is confidently expected that each will recognize the desirability of planning control being exercised at an early date.

TALLANGATTA TOWNSHIP RK\IOVAL. 163. The site for the new Tallangatta township in the vicinity of Bolga was recommended by the Parliamentary Public Works Committee on 8th February, 1950, and was subsequently decided upon by the Government. Under the provisions of the Tallangatta Township Removal Act (No. 5497), the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission was empowered to lay out the new town in consultation with the Towong Shire Council and this Board. 164. At a conference held at Tallangatta on 5th March, 1952, a plan submitted by the Board was accepted by the representatives of the above bodies and, in a slightly amended form, agreed to later by each of the authorities which were required to be consulted under the Act. The general arrangement of. the lay-out for the new Tallangatta as adopted is shown on the map included in this Report. 165. The plan takes full advantage of the excellent physical features of the site and assembles the components of the new town in effective relation to each other. The business and commercial centre of the town has been located in a pleasing and balanced way in close proximity to the railway station, and so as to provide the meeting pllace and social centre of the community. Advantage has been taken of the freedom of a new plan to supply ample provision for the parking of motor vehicles. 166. While it is conceded that the removal of an old town to a new site presents a more complex problem than the ordinary building of a new town, the varied interests of the p:roperty owners who are being transferred have been carefully considered in the planning. 167. The State Rivers and Water Supply Commission, as the controlling constructing autho,~ity, has the requisite power to exercise control over the grouping, siting, architectural design and construction of new buildings in the town centre, so that the resultant development ·should be more pleasing and harmonious than if effected by a number of individual unrelated efforts. 168. The residential area of the town could be subdivided into approximately 200 allotments of generous size and this would provtde sites for housing in excess of the present population of the existing town. The number of building sites which can be provided overlooking the Hume Reservoir and features of interest in the town ffill provide many pleasant home sites which should be appreciated by those who now live in the low-lying and 'badly drained areas of the old town. 26 27

Aerial photograph of the old Township of Tallangatta which will be inundated when the capacity of the Hume Reservoir is increased to 2,000,000 acre feet.

•

[Photograph reproduced by courtesy of the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission and the Department of Lands and Survey.] 28

169. Sale yards for live stock are conveniently located to the town and close to the railway so that sale yards and trucking yards would not be separated. Stock to and from the sale yards need not pass through the town streets, especially the main business street. 170. Sufficient provision is made for any industry desiring to establish in the area and in a location which will allow its establishment without injuriously affecting other town activities. 171. Sufficient land is set out in the plan for recreation and other public needs such as schools and hospital---the main recreational area is large enough to also function as the show ground. 172. The Board desires to record the pleasure it has had in being so intimately connected with this project. It has been a happy experience to co-operate vvith the State Rivers and ~Water Supply Commission and with the Towong Shire Council in the preparation of this plan.

BOROUGH OF YIARYBOROUGH. 173. The Council of the Borough of )faryborough commenced the preparation of a planning scheme in 1948 but up until the 30th June last had made little progress with their planning proposals. 17 4. In April of this year the Board was invited to advise the Council on a planning matter which had become a subject of conflicting representations by different sections of the local community. The question to be determined was the best ultimate use of an area of Crown Land at the corner of Neill and Clarendon streets which was formerly reserved for Town Hall and municipal purposes and which, by consent, was revoked so that the area might be re-reserved for the use of the R.S.S.A.LL.A. This later proposal was not finalized and subsequently other arrangements had been made by the R.S.S.A.I.L.A., leaving the area as Crown Lands. 175. Representations by the Council for it to be again reserved for municipal • purposes were countered by 'a claim of the Committee of Management of the Maryborough District Hospital that the area should be added to the adjoining hospital reserve to enable future hospital extensions. 176. The Board consulted all interested authorities, inspected the area and conferred with the Council and the Committee of Management of the hospital and then reported as follows:- " After considering all the relevant facts, the Board is of the opinion that:- (a) The existing hospital reserve is sufficient in area for present hospital requirements. (b) Locations for a new main hospital block on the present reserve are limited if existing buildings are to be retained. (c) A satisfactory location for a new main hospital block can be obtained by the acquisition of some private property to the east and the closing of Florence-lane. (d) Additional areas for hospital and general health purposes could be obtained in the future by the further acquisition of adjoining private property. (e) The areas now held for Governmental and civic purposes are insufficient and even with the ultimate utilization of the present fire station site, would not be an adequate provision for the future. (f) A further extension of the civic area northerly over Wellington-street would be most difficult as this would require the acquisition of land now used for community purposes, and any such extension would not enable such a proper and convenient grouping of public buildings. (g) The existing grouping of public buildings, Law Courts, Post Office, and Town Hall is unusually good and similar additional future facilities should be located in this vicinity. 2H

The Board, therefore, recommends that:- 1. The Crown Lands formerly reserved for municipal purposes be retained by the Crown for future Governmental and Civic purposes. 2. The reservation of any part of the area for specific purposes be in accordance with an approved plan of development for the purposes named in 1. 3. The lay-out of the area provide for convenient pedestrian and vehicular access across the land from Neill-street to the hospital reserve as a part of the developmental plan. 4. The design and appearance both front and rear of any buildings erected on the area and the precincts of such buildings be such as not to impair the amenities of the hospital reserve. 5. A fire station, youth centre or any use which rnay create noise or annoyance to hospital patients be not permitted on the area. (This would not preclude library, art gallery, infant welfare centre or similar uses.) 6. The present infant welfare centre be permitted to remain on the area, but the site not reserved for this specific purpose as this may limit the satisfactory future development and landscape treatment of the whole area for this and the purposes named in 1." 177. \Vhile the Board feels that it is one of its functions to confer with and advise councils as to the best manner of solving their planning problems it regrets that the determination of this particular problem had to be made in this manner instead of in accordance with the procedure applicable to planning problems generally. 178. Had the Council expressed its intention in regard to this particular area as a part of a general scheme for the whole Borough and, as required by the Act, submitted it to public exhibition for three months to enable objections and comments to be offered, the considered opinion of all interested bodies and persons would have been available. Under the provisions of the Act, any such objections would be examined by the Council and then submitted to the ::Vlinister with the adopted planning scheme. On the planning scheme being referred to this Board by the ~linister for report, further consideration would be given to the objections before the scheme is finally approved by the Governor in CounciL 179. The Board considers that the machinery and safeguards available in the Town and Country Planning Acts should be used in dealing with such problems of a planning nature and recommends the Council to proceed more actively with its planning scheme.

CITY OF MOORABBIN-SCHEME UNDER SECTION 594 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT. 180. As required by Section 20 of the Act, the Board reported during the year on a scheme prepared by the City of Moorabbin under the provisions of Section 594 of the Local Government Act. 181. The scheme provided, by an amended street lay-out, for the re-subdivision of an area known as St. George's Township Estate at East Bentleigh and, in contrast to existing conditions, achieved a convenient lay-out of streets with residential lots of adequate and eoonomic depths. The reproduction of the plan of the original layout and of the Council's scheme clearly illustrates the advantages gained and also indicates the number of ir.cdividual owners involved and the manner in which the land was re-allocated. 182. In reporting favourably on the scheme, the Board drew attention to the minimum of financial outlay involved and commended the Council on the preparation of a well conceived scheme. 183. Of a total of 31 owners in the area 28 transferred their interest in the land to the Council so that the area could be consolidated and re-allocated between the former owners. One of the remaining three owners was willing but legally unable to transfer. The former owners thereby vvill gain title in most cases to more land capable of subdivision into building allotments complying with the area requirements of the regulations and a considerable reduction of their liability under the original subdivision for street construction costs. 30 SCHEME OF RE-SUBDIVISION AND RE-ALLOCATION

CITY Of MOORABBIN S' GEORGES TOWNS.HIP ESTATE A SCHEME UNDER SECTION 594 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT

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THIS NtW SUBDIVISION IS NOT INTENDED AS AN EXAMPLE Of MODERN SITE PLANNING IT IS AN EXCtLLE:NT PRACTICAL ILLUSTRATION Of THE PRINCIPLE Of POOLING AND RE·ALLOCATING LANDS TO THE MUTUAL ADVANTAGE Of ALL OWNERS,AND OBVIATING THE PROVISION Of FUNDS NECESSARY TO COMPULSORILY ACQUIRE: THE: LANDS. PARCE:LS Of LAND AS RE>ALLOCATED ARE CAPABLE Of SEINC PROPERLY SUSDIVIOtD. 31

184. No objections to the Scheme were received and, with the exception of the three owners referred to, all owners agreed to the Council's proposal for the re-allocation and exchange of land, and further, agreed to bear a pro rata proportion of all legal, and survey fees. 185. The implementation of such schemes by negotiation and transfer rather than by compulsory acquisition is regarded by the Board as a most satisfactory procedure in dealing with similar areas in planning schemes, as well as schemes under Section 594 of the Local Government Act, and the example provided by the Moorabbin Council could be followed by other Councils where like conditions exist.

CO-OPERATION OF GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND PUBLIC AUTHORITIES. 186. Town and Country Planning Regulations No. 4, which require a responsible authority to notify Government Departments and Public Authorities likely to be affected, \Yhen a planning scheme is commenced, and which were in draft form as at 30th June, last year, have since been approved. 187. By bringing under the notice of interested bodies the commencement of the preparation of a planning scheme authorities are enabled to advance any proposals which require to be related to and incorporated in the scheme or to inform the planning authority that no developments are projected. 188. This procedure is assisting to create a wider and better appreciation of the value of planning schemes not only as a function of local government but also as an aid and a protection to the wider developments of Commonwealth and State instrumentalities. . 189. The active co-operation and participation by Government Departments and I'ublic Authorities in the consideration of mutual problems during the planning stages ohviates many objections which would otherwise have been lodged if only the formal requirements of the Act were observed. 190. The Board desires to record with appreciation the spirit of helpfulness and co-operation that has been accorded by Public Authorities and Government Departments to responsible authorities engaged in the preparation of planning schemes under the Act.

LAND USE ZONING. 191. At your request the Board has, during the past year reported on Zoning by-laws prepared under Section 197 of the Local Government Act and submitted for the approval of the Governor in Council by the following municipalities:- Cities of:- Camberwell, Caulfield, Chelsea, Collingwood, Fitzroy, Footscray, Heidelberg, Melbourne, Moorabbin, Mordialloc, Oakleigh, Prahran, Richmond, and St. Kilda. Borough of :­ Wangaratta. Shires of:- Charlton, Eltham, Kerang, Mulgrave, Warracknabeal. 192. In most instances by-laws dealt with were in the form of amendments to earlier by-laws and in several cases more than one amending by-law was submitted by a particular municipality. 193. The Board feels that the practice of so frequently amending municipal zoning by-laws is greatly to be deplored, both from the point of view of local administration and of loeal property owners affected. In some municipalities the result of such a procedure is that a person desiring to know what uses are permitted in a certain area has only recourse to lengthy schedules and, in some cases, many amending by-laws. 194. With the frequent amendment of by-lawR, any stability of zoning regulations disappears and considerable inconvenience and, in some cases, hardship and severe lessening of property values may be occasioned by a council adopting a day-to-day policy of regulation. 32

195. 'l'he Board has in the past strongly urged the use of the powers contained in the Town and Country Planning Acts as a more effective and complete means of land use zoning and has pointed out that, by the preparation of such a scheme, there is available, both to the public and the administrators of the zoning regulations, a map which clearly sets out the various types of zones within the municipality. This map, together with an ordinance, which lists the permitted uses in the various zones, clearly indicates the purpose for which land may be used.

196. The Board is pleased to record that many councils are zoning under the Town and Country Planning Acts and in this way are consolidating their many by-laws, prepared under the Local Government Act, by the preparation of a planning scheme.

THE SEGREGATION OF OFFENSIVE THADES. 197. During the year an appeal was heard in the County Court against the refusal of a council to grant a permit for the erection of buildings for the purpose of carrying on an offensive trade. The action of the Council was not upheld by the Court and some statements, subsequently published, would convey the impression that insufficient powers were available to councils to prevent the establishment of offensive industries in their districts.

198. This particular case was dealt with on its merits and revealed that, while the Council had established a policy in regard to offensive trades, little had been done to implement that policy by making use of available legislation.

199. The Town and Country Planning Acts give to municipal councils the power to make planning schemes and include in such schemes " The prescription of areas in which land is to be used for specified purposes and the prohibition, restriction, or regulation of the use of land in those areas for any other purposes" (Item 3 of the Schedule to the Act).

200. The exercise of these powers in conformity with the provisions of the Act does not render the Council liable for the payment of compensation.

201. The Local Government Act also gives councils power to prescribe residential areas in which any or all forms of new industry or business can be prohibited.

202. It should, therefore, be evident that powers are available to councils to make planning schemes or by-laws, which, on being approved by the Governor in Council, would prohibit any industries including offensive ones, if they so desired.

203. The prohibition or regulation of offensive trades has exercised the minds of those charged with the development of our towns and cities for many years past. It is generally conceded that those trades listed in the Schedule to the Health Acts as offensive, are essential industries, and although generally unwanted as " neighbours " by those who live in close proximity to them, must be found a place in most planning schemes.

204. This question, insofar as the metropolitan area is concerned was among the matters reported on by the Metropolitan Town Planning Commission in a special report in 1926 and incorporated in the plan of general development for Melbourne issued in 1929. At that time a site to the west of Metropolitan Melbourne was recommended as a suitable areas in which the bulk of such trades could be segregated. The establishment of the Pig Market at Derrimut was in accordance with the plan and some other noxious trades have been located in the district, but no concerted scheme has yet been given effect.

205. 'rhe prohibition of all offensive trades within close proximity to residential districts, should therefore, be preceded by the determination of an area to which such essential industries could be relegated. Each new offensive trade established in unsuitable areas makes more difficult and costly any scheme for the ultimate removal of those now existing and operated to the discomfort of a large population adjacent to them.

206. The Board invites all municipalities affected, where action has not yet been taken, to give this matter early attention. Vertical air photograph of area to be mapped, reduced from original photograph taken at a height of 3,700 feet above sea level.

Base map, showing contours, existing buildings and other features, produced by the State Aenal Survey Branch of the Department of Lands and Survey by photogrammetric mapping methods. ()\i89j5:t ~3 :l4

BASE MAPS FOR PLAN};lNG SCHKUES. 207. The attention of munieipalitieH was drawn in the Poarcr;:; Sixth Anmml Heport to the large amount of mapping that has bPen done by the State Aerial Survey Branch of the Department of Lands nncl Survey. The availability of ;:;uch information ut relatively small ccst should help municipalitiies eonsiderahly to 0\'ercOilll' the first stage in the preparation of a planning scheme. 208. The reproduction on the previous page is the aerial map of Heme·s Oak, and it will help to illustrate the accuracy and wealth of detail which can he obtained in map; prepan•d from aerial photographs, and also the value of these photographs them8eln•s as an aid to planning. By arrangement, the Department will show in the maps information additiounl to that obtained from the aerial photographs, such as snbdi,·isional streets and allotmentH ntHl CrO\vn allotment boundaries. 200. This I~oard has again, on many occasions during the paHt yeat\ obtained map and aerial photographic information from the Lands Departn:ent, which has materially assistea iu the preparation of planning schemes, and the Boanl de8in'i'l to reconl \Yith uppreeiatiou the valuable assista11ee given hy tlte Aerial Smvey :Branch of the J)ppartmnnt. 210. The nnmber of applications for plans which has been made to the Department, durinu the past t,welve months, by municipalities and othPrs engaged in d~>velopmental proje2ts dearly illustrates that this information, plottt>d on plans b.'· experienced draftsmen, is supplying a much needed scrviee. 211. To oht

SELJ1;C'I'lON OF PLACE !\A~lES. 212. Further to the suggestion made by the Board in it:-; Bixtlt Annwt.l Heport. wherein attention vvas drawn to the confusion resulting from tlw unsystematic naming of towns, residential arenclature Committee be formed ; (b) the Committee shonld function under the name of the Victorian Nomenclature Committne ; (c) the Committee :-;hould consult and advise Department::; a1Hl public authorities with regard to the naming or rena ruing of towns, localities. reHidential areas, geographical features, and arterial road8 : (d) the Committee should compris<' > The Surveyor-Ueneral, who shall he C:lwinnan, repres;.;ntati ves of The Department of Lands and Survey. The (Ji!icc of Titlt•s, The RoYal Historical Soeietv, The ~h{nicipal Association (;f Victoria. The Town ami Country Planning !~mud, ami a Sccn'tarT. 215. The conference also agreed that the proposed eommittee Hhonld function in an advisory capacity and that empowering legislation should only be sought if considered

necessarv.; at a later- datP . 216.- On ~Jth :J.Iav the recommendations of the confen~twe \\·ere conn~yed to the Secretary for Lands. ar~d the earl.v formation of the Committt>e iB confidentlv ~·xpeeted. 217. The Ht'nctary to this Bonrd will h{' it8 n'prt>~0llt on tlw C'ommitt('<'. 35 THE WORK OF CONSULTANT TOWN PLANNERS. 218. At the time when statutory town planning first became possible through the passing of the Town and Country Planning Act 1944, Victoria was fortunate in having available a number of professional men with training and experience in town planning who were able to advise and guide municipalities in taking the first steps toward planning the future of their towns. The Board is glad to take this opportunity to express its appreciation of the pioneer work carried out in this direction by consultant town planners, and is confident that a. large and important field of work lies ahead of them. 219. The recent formation of the Australian Planning Institute and the establishment of a diploma course in Town and Regional Planning at the University of Melbourne augurs well for the future of the planning profession. 220. While conscious of the important role preformed hereto by the consultant, the Board hopes that, as in other countries, municipal officers will take advantage of the facilities now becoming available to qualify as professional town planners. It feels that the work of the consultant and that of the professional town planning municipal officer are complementary, allowing the community to benefit on the one hand from the wide experience and independence of local interests which can be brought to bear by the consultant, and on the other from the detailed local knowledge of the trained and qualified council officer. It is not always realized that the preparation of a planning scheme is only the first stage, and that the administration of an approved scheme, which becomes the responsibility of a council's officers, is at least of equal importance. Such co-operation has been found to be of great advantage in the great post-war re-planning projects of England, and it is hoped that similar developments will, in time, take place in Victoria.

CAR PARKING IN COUNTRY TOWNS. 221. The car parking problem is often thought of as a purely metropolitan one, but it can also create considerable difficulties in country towns. A major problem in many such towns is peak-day car parking on market day, or the popular district shopping day. At such times the parking capacity of the streets in the central shopping area may be completely inadequate, the more so because many cars are left parked at the kerb all day. This is not only a matter of convenience but of social custom also, the car being used as a rendezvous for meeting friends in town for the day. 222. Difficulties caused by peak-day parking are often accentuated by narrow streets and by the routing of heavy main-road traffw through the central area. Financial considerations usually preclude any easy solution to the former problem, but considerable improvements in conditions may often be made by the provision of more attractive routes for through traffic outside the central area. The advantages of lessening congestion and providing safer and pleasanter conditions for shoppers are generally conceded to outweigh any small loss in trade which may result from the diversion of through traffic. 223. If central area traffic can thus be reduced to that having genuine business there, the problem amounts to a provision for commercial goods delivery, picking-up and setting down of passengers, and parking for shorter or longer periods. As with most other complex problems, the first essential is a factual survey of conditions and a thorough analysis of what is going on. For example, an origin and destination traffic survey will clearly indicate the possibilities of by-passing a proportion of the traffic by the provision of alternative routes. A parking survey which records registration numbers of cars parked at frequent intervals during both a normal and peak-traffic day will show the real nature of the parking demand, which may vary considerably in different towns. Such surveys require skilled and thoughtful planning, but are simple in execution, and can be carried our for example by senior students of secondary schools, under supervision. 224. One of the difficulties in a commercial area is the clash of interests between motorists who wish to leave their cars at the kerb, and delivery drivers, who in many cases have to deliver goods from the kerb. This is due in many cases to every available foot of commercial frontage being used for building purposes, even in those narrow back sbreets which were originally intended to provide rear access to shops. In a newly-developing major shopping area the provision of separate delivery access to shops is an absolute necessity, but to provide this in an old built-up area is a matter of considerable difficulty. The Town and Country Planning Act 1944 gives power to require new commercial buildings to make provisions for off-street loading, either by internal loading docks or in rear yards. 6989/52.-4 36

225. This is a very justifiable provision which should find a place in all planning schemes, so that delivery problems may be gradually overcome as old buildings are rebuilt. In some cases, councils may be in a position to undertake the redevelopment of the internal areas of large town blocks by the opening up of new streets. Here there is a clear opportunity for providing rights-of-way giving back access to the new frontages and also to older adjacent areas. 226. There remains the major problem of car parking itself. It must now be evident that no thriving town, particularly one functioning as a district centre, can hope to provide kerbside parking at all times for vehicles visiting the central area. As there is usually not enough kerb length to satisfy all who would use it, the principles of rationing and priority for essential use must be involved, rather than acceptance of the chaos resulting from uncontrolled rivalry for parking sites. Regulations limiting parking are therefore becoming common in congested areas. Naturally these require policing, resulting in expense to the community, and it appears right that such costs should be met by the car-drivers rather than the community in general. Thus a time limitation on free kerbside parking can be accompanied by the provision of off-street parking areas nearby where the privilege of all-day outdoor garaging may be had for a fee. Amongst limitation methods in force are:- (a) Simple time limitation ; (b) total prohibition where parking may interfere with moving traffic; (c) parking on alternate sides of streets on alternate days (the free side being available for commercial deliveries) ; and (d) the American system of the parking meter, which discourages long-period parking by the need to return to the car at intervals to insert another coin in the meter. 227. Once such limitations are imposed, the question of providing for the overflow of vehicles unable to park at the kerb side arises. Whether this should be the responsibility of private enterprise, or of the council, is a matter for decision by individual councils, having regard to all the circumstances. However, some councils have already found it necessary to make provision in their planning schemes for public parking areas, and, where other facilities are not available, this may be the only solution to peak parking problems. Where this is contemplated, the following suggestions may be of use. 228. The peak day parking load requires the provision of space near the central shopping area or the markets. In a small town the high values of land in the main streets often rapidly diminish within a few hundred yards of the central area, where parts of the original settlement, consisting of obsolescent and blighted housing, are often found. Also, some Victorian towns, as in the case of Hamilton, were planned with town blocks of double the normal depth, leaving internal areas which are largely vacant and wasted. Such localities, close to the business area but not in it, are ideal for the purchase of land for large peak-period parking areas. The siting of such car parks should be considered in relation to the main lines of approach from surrounding districts, so that, whatever the direction of approach, a driver can turn aside to a convenient car park before entering the central area. Direct access by footway to the shopping streets provides the maximum convenience to shopping-day visitors, and it is not impossible for the car park itself to serve as a meeting place if well laid-out and maintained. 229. In larger towns certain buildings such as large department stores may have a much larger traffic-generating capacity than the general average. In other countries, e.g., America and South Africa, the responsibility has been placed on the owners of such buildings to provide at least a proportion of their parking needs within their own site, or on their land within a reasonable distance. This could well be a useful adjunct to other parking measures. It is of course already done as a voluntary service by some large stores which provide day parking facilities for their own customers. 230. One class of vehicle-user for whom major parking areas on the outskirts may not be suitable is the doctor, professional, or business man having an office in the central area. In such cases the quick availability of a car may be of considerable importance, yet it may be difficult to make exceptions to the general parking regulations for individuals. One way of providing for such cases is the provision of small off-street parking areas distributed through the central area, using odd lots of land at the rear of buildings with right- of-way access. It is rarely possible to obtain such land without cost, and the 37 question arises of how to recover such costs from the user. The employment of a paid attendant is obviously not economic, unless the number of cars parked in an area is sufficient to cover the costs of fee collection, a condition which does not apply in these cases. The suggestion is put forward that small scattered car parks could be run on a rental basis, whereby a business man, requiring his car to be available nearby at short notice, can rent a space for his exclusive use at all times. Such a system could almost run itself, leaving users the responsibility of reporting unauthorized use of spaces. If some such system could be put into use, a good deal of the normal daily working needs of the business centre could be thus satisfied, leaving kerbside parking for short-period business ami shopping needs, and making provision outside the central area for casual all-day parking. 231. In conclusion, it may be said that Australian parking problems are increasing daily, though not yet comparable with those of America. The latter country affords instances of pre-automobile shopping centres which have been left behind in the competition for custom by other areas, which have made full and convenient provisions for their customers' parking needs. 232. The conclusion for any forward-looking town is obvious-that now is the time, while commercial building is still somewhat restricted, to make bold provision for the car-parking problems of the future. Lack of foresight in this matter may sow the seeds of stagnation and decay in the commer<;;ial centre, with the consequent transfer of business to more wide-awake places.

THE SUBDIVISION OF LAND. 233. The apparent lack of foresight displayed on many occasions by subdividers in their site planning proposals frequently comes to the notice of the Board. These numerous and independent subdivision set the pattern of the street system, land uses and public services, such as water, sewerage, &c. As development occurs around and beyond these subdivisions so is the street system called upon to provide carriage-way for increasing traffic of all types. 234. This piecing together of independent subdivisions directly results in an inadequate street system entailing costly corrective measures, the remedy for which is the adequate supervision of all subdivisions, thereby reducing to a minimum the expenditure which will otherwise be incurred. 235. From time to time proposals for subdivision are submitted to the Board by councils for consideration and comment. In many instances the Board has been able to point out deficiencies in the design, and suggest alternative proposals which, \vhilst containing the general ideas of the subdivider, have been more desirable because of the provision for future development, economy of. road lay-out, protection of main traffic routes, and the general amenity of the area. One such example on which the ad vice of the Board was sought during the past year is illustrated on the following page. 2:36. Scheme A represents the submitted design, some bad features being:-­ (a) Too many roads entering the highway, (b) Uneconomic internal street system, (c) No provision for future integrated development with adjoining land, (d) Badly proportioned residential blocks.

2:37. Scheme B illustrates how the subdivision could be treated, in the interest of the snbdivider, and avoiding the disadvantages referred to above. 238. This example, whieh is only one of many on which the advice of the Board has been sought, is given in support of the recommendation referred to in paragraph 5 (7) of this Report. It is felt that, by the reference of all plans of subdivision to the Board before being approved by councils, bad and unco-ordinated subdivisions could, in most cases, be prevented. The checking of ribbon development and limitation of access on highways, as proposed by the Country Roads Board, could be assisted by adopting this procedure. 38

LAND SUBDIVISION FOR HOUSING DEVELOPMENT.

SCHEME 'A'

Original Submitted Subdivision Bad Features-( I) 6 points of entry on to Highway. (2) Uneconomic length of internal streets-5, 160 feet. (3) Badly proportioned residential blocks. (4) No provision for road access to adjoining vacant land. (5) Inadequate size of playground sites. (6) Shopping area likely to interfere with highway traffic.

SCHEME 'B'

Alternative Proposal Go:>d Features-(!) Reduction of points of entry on to Highways. (2) Reduction in length of internal streets by 500 feet to 4,660 feet (3) Well-proportioned and larger residential blocks. (4) Provision made for road access to adjoining vacant land. (5) Consolidation of open space reserves. (6) Shops set back from Highway. 39

EARLY PLANNING OF MELBOURNE. 239. The Board noted during the year the renewed controversy arising from press statements which claimed that it was Robert Russell who was responsible for the original design of the Town of Melbourne. The Board feels that this matter, which is of great historical interest, should be clarified once more. 240. Mr. H. S. McComb, fast President of the Victorian Institute of Surveyors, Chief Surveyor of the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board and Member of the Surveyors' Board of Victoria, in a paper read before the Historical Society of Victoria (now the Royal Historical Society of Victoria), of which he is a Past President, puts the matter beyond any question of doubt. lVIr. McComb, who has carried out a considerable amount of research on the matter, names Robert Hoddle as the original designer and, in incontestable supporting evidence, quotes extensively from Surveyor Hoddle's field survey books, which contain Hoddle's journal, and from official letter books and Governor Eourke's diary, now at the :VIelbourne Publie Library. 241. Most of the eontroversy seems to have arisen from an early print which was signed as being surveyed and drawn by Robert Russell. The print shows the features e:x:isting, together with the position of huts and buildings prior to the foundation of the township by Governor Sir Richard Bourke in 1837. Superimposed on this feature survey plan is an outline of the blocks bounded by Lonsdale, Spring, Flinders, and Spencer streets. Extracts from Hoddle's reports to the Governor and to the Surveyor-General, together with extracts from the Governor's diarv and Hoddle's field book, leave no doubt that the original design of the Town of Melbou~ne was made and marked out by Robert Hoddle. 242. Mr. McComb's very interesting papers entitled " Surveyor Hoddle's Field Books of Melbourne", from whieh this information is extracted, are printed in issues of the " Victorian Historical :Magazine" of May, 1937, and May, 1938. 243. In the report of The Metropolitan Town Planning Commission of 1929 the credit for the first plan of Melbourne is given to Robert Hoddle. It is interesting to repeat a comment by that Commission (see page 19 of its Report)- " It is a matter of regret that his (Hoddle's) work has been so ungraciously forgotten and inadequately recognized."

TOWN PLANNING EDUCATION. 244. During 1951 the Diploma Course in Town and Regional Planning at the :Yielbourne University was placed under the control of a Board of Studies, on which this Board is represented by Mr. A. C. Collins. Mr. Neil Abercrombie was appointed Director of the Course, and during his absence in England this year Mr. Roy Grounds of the School of Architecture has deputised. 245. The final examinations of the first course, which commenced in 1949, were held in December, 1951, 24 of the students passing and therefore qualifying for the first Diplomas in Town and Regional Planning. There was an enrolment of 22 students for the commencement of the 1952 year. 246. In November, 1951, the Board was informed of the possible discontinuance of the course because the School of Architecture, under which the course was functioning, was finding its financial allocation insufficient for its own purposes, and, therefore, would have to consider abandoning the course unless it could be financed in some other way. 247. The Board convened a conference of representatives of the Royal Victorian Institute of Architects, the Institution of Engineers, the Victorian Institute of Surveyors, the. Planning Institute of , the Town and Country Planning Association, the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works, and the .Municipal Association of Victoria with the object of making representations to ensure that the course would be continued and enlarged. 248. The need for the training of planning consultants and, more particularly, of municipal engineers and similar people, who will be required to put into effect the planning legislation was emphasized, and the following resolution was passed:-· " This meeting views with great concern the fact that the Town Planning Diploma Course at the University is not established on a permanent basis and is of the opinion that education in Town Planning and allied subjects should be increasingly fostered in this State. The meeting considers that immediate steps should be taken to establish the Diploma Course on a permanent basis and on a level comparable with New South Wales." 40

249. The Chairman of this Board, at the request of the conference, discussed the matter with Professor Paton, Vice-Chancellor of the Melbourne University, who agreed as to the necessity for the establishment of the Town and Regional Planning Course on a permanent basis and on a level comparable with the course at the University of Sydney, and indicated that, although funds were insufficient, the course would be continued for the present.

rrOWN PLANNING CONGRESS. 250. rrhe combined Planning Institutes of Australia, comprising the Town and Country Planning Institute of Australia (New South Wales), the Planning Institute of Australia (Victoria), and the Town Planning Institute of South Australia, in August, 1951, held their Annual Congress in Canberra. The arrangements for the Congress were carried out by the Town and Country Planning Institute of Australia (Sydney), but Canberra was chosen as the venue because of the Jubilee Celebrations of the Federal Parliament. 251. The Federal Government bad extended an invitation to Professor W. G. Holford, of the London University, to confer with Commonwealth officers on Development and Regional Planning, and this visit was timed to enable Professor Ho1ford to be the principal speaker at the Congress. His address, entitled " A Critical Analysis of Planning Policy and Administration in Great Britain ", vvas followed by a discussion which was greatly enhanced by the presence of Sir George Pepler, of the Ministry of Town and Country Plarming (United Kingdom). 252. Other notable speakers at the Congress were Mr. Colin Clark, who spoke on "Migration and the Development of Australia's Resources", Professor Denis Winston who spoke on " City Planning as related to National and Regional Planning ", and Mr. Grenfell Rudduck whose address was entitled "Planning at the National Level". 253. During the Congress the several Planning Institutes were merged into a ·Federal body which is known as the Australian Planning Institute, each former State Planning Institute becoming a Division thereof. The Board was represented at the Congress by its Technical Officer, Mr. H. P. George.

VISIT OF PROFESSOR W. G. HOLFORD. 254. The Commonwealth Government arranged for Professor Holford, M.A., F.R.l.B.A., M.T.P.I., of the London University, to confer with the various interested State Authorities during his visit to Australia, and accordingly, five days from August 15th were spent by him in conference with Victorian Departments and Authorities, including this Board. 255. Professor Holford spoke highly of the Latrobe Valley Sub-Regional Planning Scheme, which he regarded as a unique regional scheme and commended the wisdom of the State Government in initiating and approving the scheme and also in providing special implementing legislation in the form of the "Latrobe Valley Development Loan and Application Act." Aspects and provisions of the planning scheme are now being studied in the United Kingdom and United States of Amercia. 256. Professor Holford also discussed Victorian legislation, contrasting it with similar provisions of English legislation, and outlined the work being undertaken in the United Kingdom as a result of the new. planning enactments. These discussions were valued and appreciated by the Board.

NATIONAL PARKS. 257. In the Sixth Annual Report of this Board support was given to the recommendations made by the State Development Committee in its Interim Report on Tourist Facilities and National Parks, and the Board has, during the year, received the Conm1ittee's splended comprehensive report on National parks. 258. The Board appreciates the recommendations made in this Report, which, if given practical implementation, will prove of immense value to the people and help to guide the provisions which will have to be made in many planning schemes to enable this aspect of recreation and health to be supplied. 41

250. As will be noted in the reference to the planning scheme for Tyers on page 23, this Board endeavours, where practicable, to encourage the setting aside for public purposes specially suitable areas which enable the protection of n3:tive. flora. Although at Tyers such areas are relatively small, they make a valuable contnbutwn for the future. It is considered that the same principles can be applied to give much desirable protection to the la.rge areas envisaged as national parks. 260. While vast areas such as the ~Wilson's Promontory reservation and the proposed alpine parks may, in t,hemselves, provide sufficient ~md complete units for internal development, such picturesque portions of the State as the Dandenong Ranges and Mornington Peninsula present a very different problem, requiring markedly different treatment. 261. The advanced state of land sub-division and of unco-ordinated development in the Dandenongs and all over the JHornington Peninsula, where only limited reserves and Crmm lands exist, necessitate urgent but most careful study. Much could be done by the local municipalities to prevent further deterioration of these lovely natural features, to provide the vast metropolis with its needed scenic areas, tourist resorts, and holiday attractions. But the Board feels that the matter is of such importance to so many that the responsibility for detailed plans for the future development should be shared with the municipalities by the Government, and perhaps by other authorities concerned also. 262. In such areas the protection of existing parks and additional land whieh could be made available should in the first instance be done by means of a planning scheme under the Town and Country Planning Aets. Thus, the requisite and most suitable areas for reservation could be allocated, and by zoning private lands for specific purposes, development could be regulated in a manner which could add to the scenic value of the parks as well as the general landscape. There would appear to be sound reasons for protecting from further alienation the scenic roads of access through these areas, even though passing between private lands, in a manner \vhieh would create the illusion that the reservation were much greater than they actually are. 26:3. 'rhe Board considers that the existing town planning legislation could be used generally to aid the aims of the State Development Committee in their splended efforts to obtain and protect all the great national scenic flora and fauna assets, which their Heport describes so convincingly. It can be done in a manner similar to that employed in the Latrobe Y alley, where that great national asset, the brown coal area, is effectively protected by the statutory Latrobe V alley Sub-Hegional Planning Scheme. The proposed legislation, as recommended by the State Development Committee, has the full support, in principle, of this Board.

VISITS BY THE BOARD. 264. During the past year the Board has eontinued its poliey of maintaining a close liaison with councils during the preparation of a planning seheme and, as well as attending conferences in Melbourne, Board members and offieen; visited the following centres v;rhere planning matters required to be investigated :- Anglesea, Arara.t, Apollo Bay, Ballarat, Bairnsdale, Benalla, Bendigo, Bruns~wick, Chelsea, Eildon, Foster, Ji'rankston, Geelong, Gelliondale, Hamilton, Hawthorn, Herne's Oak, Inverloch, Lakes Entrance, Lorne, Maryborough, l\Ioe, Moorabbin, Mordialloe, Mornington, .MonYell, Kewborough, Pakenham, Pmhran, Preston, Port Fairy, Portland, Shepparton, Sunshine, Tallangatta, Torquay, Trafalgar, Traralgon, 'l'yers, 'Vangara.tta, Warra.gul, \Varrnambool, Wodonga, Wonthaggi, Yallourn, Yallourn North, and Yarram.

STAFF. 265. The staff of the Board during the year ending :30th June, 1952, was 1ncreased to nine by the appointment of a junior tyJ>iste. 266. The vacancy caused by the resignation of the Secretary, .Mr . .J. D. MacNamara, to take up the duties of Secretary to the Shire of Tamho in January of this year was, with your approval, filled by Mr. N. L. Lyneham, who had been an officer of the Board sinee early 1948. Mr. Lyneham was a Planning Offieer holding the Diploma of Town and Regional Planning, Melbourne University, prior to his appointment as Seeretary. 42

267. The appointment of the new Secretary caused a vacancy for a planning officer, and you approved of the temporary appointment of Mrs. L. Phillips, B.Arch., A.R.A.I.A., to this position. 268. Notwithstanding the great increase in the volume of work performed by the staff, both in the preparation of planning schemes requested by the Minister and the examination of schemes prepared by municipal councils, many of which are reaching final stages, no further increase in personnel was rendered necessary. This has been achieved mainly by a reorganization of work within the office, and because of the increased efficiency of the planning staff following the wider experience of the last two years. 269. The Board desires to record with appreciation the energy and efficiency displayed by all members of the staff and the very satisfactory manner in which they carried out the duties assigned to them.

Yours faithfully, F. C. COOK, Chairman. A. N. KEMSLEY, Member. A. C. COLLINS, Member. H. P. GEORGE, Technical Officer. N. L. LYNEHAM, Secretary. State Offices Annexe, 107 Russell-street, Melbourne.

By Authority: W. M. HousToK, Government Printer, Melbourne.