BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
21.05 OBJECTIVES – STRATEGIES – IMPLEMENTATION 19/01/2006 VC37 Council applies an integrated approach to land use planning which takes into account economic, social and environmental perspectives. It is considered that this approach does, and will realise preferred future development and directions within the Shire. The five land use issues that have been identified as integral to future land use and development within Bass Coast accord with those contained in the State Planning Policy Framework. Each major land use issue comprises specific elements. These are:
Settlement
Urban settlement Township character
Environment
Natural resources Environmental hazards Cultural heritage
Housing
Residential Rural Living and Low Density Residential Development Small rural lots
Economic Development
Business Industry Tourism Recreation Agriculture Forestry and timber production Extractive industry
Infrastructure
Transport Community services Physical Each of these elements is considered in the following terms. Overview The important features of each element. Issues What factors influences each element.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 1 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Objectives What is to be achieved. Strategies How each objective is to be achieved. Implementation How each strategy will be implemented.
21.05-1 SETTLEMENT 13/07/2006 C58
Urban settlement
Overview
Settlements of varying size and function are scattered throughout the Shire. Those along the coastline and on Phillip Island are primarily holiday resorts, although they are becoming increasingly popular for permanent residents, particularly retirees. Although there are numerous vacant residential lots in each town, this may not fully satisfy all demand over the next twenty-five years.
Issues
Adequate residential land in each town set aside to accommodate expected increased population and associated community services and facilities, recreation and open space. Urban settlement responsive to and interactive with the surrounding natural environment, particularly the coastline. Pressures to expand urban areas beyond existing town boundaries for both residential and low density residential development. Provision of fully serviced urban areas. Development and business opportunities in Dalyston, Kilcunda, Bass and Archies Creek. Revitalisation of rural hamlets. Appropriately located large-scale special alternative residential lifestyle developments beyond town boundaries. Restructuring of old and inappropriate residential subdivisions. Implications of expanded sewerage areas.
Objectives
To provide adequate residential land in each town to accommodate anticipated population growth. To consolidate urban development within existing urban boundaries separated by rural land. To provide open space and community facilities to satisfy demand within each town. To maximise the use of infrastructure. To provide an appropriate level of physical and community infrastructure in new urban areas. To have development that is energy efficient and responsive to, and interactive with the surrounding diverse natural environment.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 2 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
To have innovative subdivision layouts relating to, and incorporating recreation or environmental features in appropriate locations. To revitalise rural hamlets and provide development and business opportunities for small 'old' towns. To restructure old and inappropriate residential subdivisions into low density residential and rural living lots.
Strategies
Allow for the limited expansion of residentially zoned land in Grantville. Encourage subdivision of existing lots provided the natural environment and the local community is not adversely affected. Encourage higher density housing in proximity to town centres. Actively promote infill development of areas already zoned for residential use in all towns. Strongly discourage expansion of all urban areas into the rural land that separates townships. Strongly discourage rural living and low density residential development to locate in areas that compromise the potential future development of towns. Rural living and low density residential development should be located on the periphery of, but be functionally part of, existing urban settlement. Strongly discourage expansion of isolated residential, low density residential, and rural living estates, except on the north side of Viminaria Road, Harmers Haven if servicing and environmental issues are satisfactorily addressed. Facilitate and develop a range and mix of open space and community facilities within all developing areas. Develop safe and enjoyable pedestrian and cyclist routes throughout towns, and where feasible, as a means of linking towns. Require all new residential and low density residential development to connect to all available reticulated services. Where reticulated sewerage is not available, it should be demonstrated that all effluent can be effectively treated and disposed of on-site. Require an equitable distribution of physical and community infrastructure in new urban areas. Actively promote the siting and design of energy efficient buildings, which responds to the surrounding natural environment, particularly the coastline. Encourage the creation of innovative integrated energy efficient subdivision layouts that relate to, and enhance, the environmental features of an area. Only allow innovative large-scale integrated subdivision layouts that relate to, or incorporate recreational opportunities outside existing town boundaries. Encourage businesses to establish in Archies Creek, Bass, Kilcunda and Dalyston. Encourage the consolidation and development of small township lots at Glen Alvie, Glen Forbes, Kernot, Almurta and Woolamai. Actively promote restructuring of old and inappropriate subdivisions where Restructure Plans exist. Limit development in old and inappropriate subdivisions to ensure that future development opportunities are not unduly prejudiced.
Implementation
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These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Residential 1 Zone over all land developed or committed for residential use in most urban areas (except Kilcunda, Dalyston, Archies Creek and Bass), and in all isolated residential estates (Jam Jerrup, Island Road Estate, Tenby Point, Adams Estate, Mabilia Road Estate). Applying Township Zone over Kilcunda, Dalyston, Archies Creek and Bass to provide opportunities for new businesses to establish in these towns. Applying Low Density Residential Zone over all land developed or committed for low density residential development on the periphery of the urban areas at Corinella, Grantville, Ventnor, Cowes, Sunset Strip / Sunderland Bay, San Remo, Wonthaggi (north and south), and Inverloch (west). Applying Rural Living Zone over all land developed or committed for rural living development that are generally isolated or physically separated from urban areas at Hurdy Gurdy Creek environs, Wattle Bank, Ruttle Lane, Mabilia Road Estate, Woolamai, Bass, South Wonthaggi and Inverloch (east). The minimum lot size for new subdivision should be 8 hectares to clearly indicate that further subdivision of these estates is strongly discouraged. Applying Farming Zone and Development Plan Overlay over Glen Alvie, Glen Forbes, Kernot, Almurta and Woolamai to encourage consolidation of small township lots. Applying Public Park and Recreation Zone over all public land used for public open space and recreation areas. Applying Environmental Significance Overlay over land zoned Residential 1 where reticulated sewerage is not available. Applying Design and Development Overlay to minimise the visual impact of residential development on the coastline and maintain views from the coast to residential areas. Applying Development Plan Overlay over undeveloped residentially zoned land in Coronet Bay, Inverloch and Grantville. Applying Restructure Overlay over: Residential 1 zoned land at Adams Estate. Rural zoned land at Queensferry and Dudley. Township zoned land at Kilcunda and Dalyston. Using local policy Clause 22.03 Small rural lots in rural zones to encourage small rural lots to locate in proximity to rural hamlets and associated infrastructure. Using local policy Clause 22.01 Grantville to identify the future direction of development in Grantville. Supporting actions include: Use Council's adopted Design and Siting Guidelines for Coastal and Hinterlands 1999 for considering residential development in proximity to the coastline, and Mabilia Road Estate, Kilcunda. Promote Bass, Archies Creek, Dalyston and Kilcunda as attractive, viable locations for new businesses for example, tourist development at Bass, and tourist accommodation at Kilcunda, hi-tech industries at Archies Creek and Dalyston. Undertake a study of old and inappropriate subdivisions in the municipality including Scenic Road Estate, Maher's Landing, Glen Alvie, Glen Forbes, Kernot, Almurta and Woolamai. Undertake a study that examines the implications of expansion of sewerage areas, particularly at Ventnor, Kilcunda and Dalyston will have on a strategy of urban consolidation.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 4 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Develop and implement a Development Contribution Plan for the Shire.
Township character
Overview
The character of a town, whether large or small, is influenced by many elements. These include street furniture; building features such as verandahs and signage; street vistas; pedestrian ways; vegetation in the area, including trees in streets; the special character or 'feel' of a street or urban area; town entrances; and, the relationship and interaction with the surrounding natural environment. In Bass Coast, the foreshore is a particularly strong influence on township character. At present, it is acknowledged that most of the Shire’s towns lack uniformity in their appearance and do not have a special character about them. The exception is the developing maritime theme at San Remo.
Issues
Need to improve township character. General lack of design and siting guidelines. Poor quality appearance of some commercial, industrial and residential areas, including the entrance to Wonthaggi, 'rear' of Bass township, and Mabilia Road Estate, Kilcunda.
Objectives
To enhance the appearance of each town reflecting its role, function and relationship to its culture and the natural environment. To have new development which contributes positively to local urban character.
Strategies
Reinforce and extend the maritime theme at San Remo. Promote the unique character of Cowes, Inverloch and Grantville through urban design measures. Define and develop the character of towns, including Kilcunda, Dalyston, Bass, Wonthaggi, Corinella and Coronet Bay. Encourage the Shire's artist community to contribute to the enhancement of the local built environment. Encourage new development to contribute to the character and identity of each town, particularly at their entrance, near the foreshore, and along main public and shopping thoroughfares. Promote development along tourist routes that is sympathetic to township character. Rationalise signage on private land to minimise adverse impacts on township character. Actively promote the retention of existing indigenous vegetation as well as tree planting programs throughout each town, and along major tourist routes, including Phillip Island Tourist Road. Actively promote underground cabling of electricity in towns, particularly in peripheral areas, to minimise visual impact on the surrounding rural landscape and to protect existing vegetation.
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Adopt a high design and maintenance standard for the public realm that sets the standard for abutting and neighbouring private development.
Implementation
Supporting actions include: Prepare design and siting guidelines for development along tourist routes, including urban areas. Undertake various streetscape studies considering alternative themes or design elements that reflect each town's character, role, function and relationship with the natural environment, particularly the foreshore. Implement the streetscape master plans for Inverloch and Cowes, and urban design guidelines for Grantville and Wonthaggi. Develop and implement a Signage Policy to complement Signage in Public Places Policy 1998. Achieve a high design and maintenance standard of public places - streets, footpaths, parkland, squares and places. Encourage and promote participation of arts/crafts community in local design issues and projects.
21.05-2 ENVIRONMENT 13/07/2006 C58
Natural resources
Overview
There is a diverse range of natural resources that exist in the Shire - on the coastline, including inter-tidal areas and mudflats; along water courses; in the rural hinterland; and, within towns. Many of these resources are valuable public assets. The high quality and diversity in the Shire’s natural environment contributes significantly to the Shire’s popularity as a holiday and tourist destination, as well as creating an attractive and healthy environment in which to live. These natural resources are for the benefit of both existing and future generations of residents, tourists, researchers, conservationists and the community as a whole.
Issues
Conservation and enhancement of natural resources. Balance between the competing interests of protecting the natural environment and promoting development. Pressure from population growth and visitors to the locality.
Objectives
To effectively manage the Shire’s biologically diverse natural environment as an ecologically sustainable resource for present and future generations. To facilitate development which does not impact or conflict with the quality and sensitivity of the natural environment.
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Strategies
Protect and enhance significant habitats including the Phillip Island Nature Park, Thompson Estate at Inverloch, Bass River mouth, nature conservation reserves in the Grantville area, and the Screw Creek and Little Screw Creek environs. Protect and enhance remnant indigenous vegetation including roadside vegetation, significant landscapes of the Bass Valley and Strzelecki foothills, and sites of botanical, zoological and geomorphological significance. Maintain existing vegetation controls on Phillip Island and Inverloch until a Vegetation Management Plan has been completed. Actively encourage, initiate and support programs that focus on the retention and re- establishment of locally indigenous vegetation. In rural areas, additional planting would provide shelter for livestock, enhance landscape quality, minimise soil erosion and salinity and provide further opportunities for wildlife corridors. Support the Phillip Island Landcare group in the establishment of a wildlife corridor across the Island and encourage the extension of this program to other areas of the Shire, including at Inverloch and Grantville. Educate the local community, visitors and investors on the need to protect the Shire’s natural resources, supporting the education programs of the Bass Valley and Phillip Island Landcare groups. Support measures that improve coordination and cooperation between management authorities and volunteers concerned with the protection and enhancement of the Shire’s natural resources. Where Council is not the Committee of Management for foreshore areas, liaise closely with Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Phillip Island Nature Park and Parks Victoria, Committees of Management under Department of Natural Resources and Environment at San Remo, Lang Lang (Jam Jerrup), Corinella, Kilcunda/Powlett River and Harmers Haven in the management of public land and encourage the preparation of Management Plans where they do not exist. Where Council is the Committee of Management at Coronet Bay and Grantville, prepare Foreshore Management Plans. Regularly review the Phillip Island Foreshore Management Plan, Inverloch and Anderson Inlet Management Plan, and the Cape Paterson Management Plan. Control access to the foreshore, dunes, wetlands and inter-tidal areas by pedestrians, vehicles and livestock by providing clearly identified access routes. Strongly discourage the establishment or extension of car parks and roads in sensitive coastal locations such as on dunes or in wetlands. Any management plans should be coordinated to provide a comprehensive and consistent framework for the protection and enhancement of the Shire's natural resources. Strongly promote development that is sympathetic to environmentally sensitive and significant landscape areas. Discourage development that may adversely impact on the coastline, waterways, wetlands and significant environmental and landscape areas. Strongly discourage linear coastal development beyond urban boundaries. All development in proximity to the coastline should be either connected to a reticulated sewerage system or an approved on-site effluent disposal system to prevent pollution of the fragile coastal ecosystem.
Implementation
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 7 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Public Conservation and Resource Zone over public land of significant environmental quality including Phillip Island Nature Park, the State Coal Mine at Wonthaggi, the nature conservation reserves in the Grantville area, the Wonthaggi Heathlands, Thompsons Estate at Inverloch, waterways, and much of the Shire's coastline. Applying Public Park and Recreation Zone over all other public land used for public open space and public recreation areas. Applying Environmental Significance Overlay generally within 200 metres of high water mark over public land zoned Public Conservation and Resource Zone, Public Park and Recreation Zone, and private land zoned Rural. This is to protect and enhance this environmentally sensitive area of high landscape quality. This overlay includes: Areas on the Register of the National Estate: Phillip Island Southern Coastline, Kilcunda Coastline, Bunurong Cliffs Coastal and Marine Area, Churchill Island, Coronet Bay Area (Aboriginal shell middens), and Phillip Island Midden Complex (Aboriginal shell middens). National Trust Significant Landscapes: Churchill Island & Swan Bay, Pyramid Rock and Southern Coastline at Phillip Island (part), Bunurong Coastline, Powlett River (part), and, San Remo to Blackhead Coastline at Kilcunda (part). Applying Environmental Significance Overlay over sites of geological and geomorphological significance on both public and private land. Applying Environmental Significance Overlay over significant flora and fauna habitats, mainly on public land. This overlay includes: Sites of zoological and botanical significance at Nature Conservation Reserves at The Gurdies and Grantville, along Hurdy Gurdy Creek, much of the Phillip Island Nature Park, the Bass River mouth, and Korumburra Shire Sanctuary. Areas on the Register of the National Estate: The Nits, Phillip Island Southern Coastline, Cape Woolamai State Faunal Reserve, and Seals Rocks State Faunal Reserve. National Trust Significant Landscapes: Bass River Delta and Floodplain. Applying Vegetation Protection Overlays: Over areas of vegetation which do not necessarily constitute significant flora and fauna habitats, for example at Tenby Point. Over all of Phillip Island, except where significant flora and fauna habitats are identified, and where land is zoned Mixed Use, Business 1, and Industrial 1. Over all of Inverloch where previous vegetation controls applied, except where significant flora and fauna habitats are identified. Applying Significant Landscape Overlays: Over the Bass Valley to protect and enhance the high quality landscape in this location. This overlay includes the National Trust Significant Landscapes Bass Hill (part), Bass River Valley, and Gorge Creek. Over the Strzelecki Foothills extending from the north-east corner of the Shire to San Remo. This overlay includes National Trust Significant Landscapes Bass Hill (part), San Remo to Blackhead, and Kilcunda (part). Applying Design and Development Overlay, to protect views from the coast to the residential areas, and to protect views from residential areas to the coast, addressing height, bulk and appearance of buildings and works. Applying Incorporated Plan Overlay over Saltwater Creek area to protect the significant flora and fauna.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 8 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Applying Public Acquisition Overlay over the Summerland Estate to form part of the Phillip Island Nature Park, with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment nominated as the acquiring authority. Using Council's adopted Design and Siting Guidelines for Coastal and Hinterlands 1999 for considering residential development in proximity to the coastline. Supporting actions include: Maintain and enhance coastal facilities, foreshore reserves, and the coastline. Coastal works include weed eradication, car park and access track maintenance, fencing, revegetation, sign maintenance, public amenity cleaning and maintenance, and beach cleaning. Develop and implement Coronet Bay Foreshore Management Plan as part of the Coronet Bay Leisure and Recreation Management Plan. Develop and implement Grantville Foreshore Management Plan. Implement Cape Paterson, Inverloch and Anderson Inlet, and, review Phillip Island Foreshore Management Plans. Develop and implement Cape Woolamai Safety Beach Foreshore Management Plan and Thompson Reserve Management Plan. Develop detailed master plans for coastal reserves with high visitation throughout the Shire. Develop and implement Vegetation Management Plan to provide the basis for revised Vegetation Protection Overlays. Finalise the Roadside Management Plan that provides a set of environmental guidelines for development and maintenance works within the municipality. Develop and implement a Conservation Management Plan / Environmental Management Strategy that links all of Council's environmental management strategies and plans. Undertake a Landscape Study for the whole Shire. Implement a Land Management Biodiversity Incentive Scheme that will recognise and reward landholders that adopt land management principles to improve sustainable agricultural opportunities and protect and enrich the natural environment.
Environmental hazards
Overview
There are several areas within the Shire that experience significant environmental problems and threats which may impact on future agricultural activities and production levels, water quality, environmental quality and diversity, resident and visitor wellbeing, and development opportunities. Part of the coastline may be vulnerable to sea level rise from the Greenhouse Effect in the future.
Issues
Increased areas affected by salinity. Erosion on the steeper slopes of the Strzelecki foothills. Inadequate effluent disposal and stormwater drainage facilities impacting on coastal and inland waterways, flora and fauna habitats etc. Control of pest plants and animals.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 9 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Development in inappropriate locations. Adequate planning for, and response to, emergencies.
Objectives
To maintain and improve water quality and soil resources. To eradicate pest plants and animals. To protect residents and visitors from wildfire and other natural disasters. To control development on fire-prone, flood-prone, erosion-prone and subsistence- prone land. To ensure potentially contaminated sites are suitable for intended future use or development.
Strategies
Work in partnership with other Councils and government agencies to implement land and water management programs, identified in the West Gippsland Regional Catchment Strategy and the Port Phillip and Western Port Regional Catchment Strategy. Maintain and improve indigenous vegetation and land management practices within Proclaimed Water Catchment Areas. Actively promote the fencing of streambanks to prevent livestock access. Encourage landowners to revegetate gullies, streambanks and degraded areas to minimise erosion and salinity, and improve water quality. Council will only support land use in degraded areas if land management practices will result in improved land quality. Encourage and support re-afforestation programs throughout the Shire. Require all new low density residential development to connect to a reticulated sewerage system or to be able to adequately dispose of effluent on-site by an approved system. Council (and EPA) will consider more favourably any wastewater treatment and re-use scheme as opposed to systems relying on disposal methods (eg. soil absorption). Encourage unsewered residential areas to establish innovative communal reticulated sewerage disposal systems. Ensure on-site effluent disposal systems are effectively managed and maintained. All development and associated road infrastructure works should be undertaken so as to minimise the impact on stormwater quality, and sediment and nutrient loads to local waterways. Encourage and support weed eradication programs undertaken by Landcare groups, foreshore committees, conservation groups and other interested parties. Improve public awareness on weeds and weed eradication programs occurring in the Shire. Improve public awareness of fire hazards within the municipality. Require that the design of all new development respond to fire hazard potential of the locality. Require all new subdivision and development to be readily accessed by emergency services.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 10 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Restrict development on fire-prone, flood-prone, erosion-prone and subsistence-prone land. Require detailed information on the adverse effects potential contamination may have on the future land use of a site.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Rural Conservation Zone over Proclaimed Water Catchment Areas to control use or development in order to achieve high quality water supply. Applying Environmental Significance Overlays: Over land zoned Residential 1 where reticulated sewerage is not available. Over all land subject to environmental hazards, such as subsidence due to previous mining activities, 'king' tides, and steeply sloping erosion-prone land. Applying Land Subject to Inundation Overlay over rural land adjacent to the Powlett River that is subject to flooding. Applying Environmental Audit Overlay over various potentially contaminated sites throughout the Shire. Using local policy Clause 22.02 Fire safety and wildfire hazard to determine whether a planning application has regard to fire safety and wildfire hazard issues. Using CFA’s guidelines on subdivision, group accommodation and recreation accommodation to consider whether a development proposal adequately addresses fire safety issues. Supporting actions include: Support and provide funding to the Phillip Island and Bass Valley Landcare groups for reafforestation and roadside weed control programs. Promote the community's use of Council's Weed booklet that details 32 weeds and the most appropriate means of control. Implement weed control and eradication on land managed by Council. Finalise Roadside Management Plan, which includes guidelines on road construction and maintenance, fire management, and weed control. Implement Council's free Green Waste Disposal program for the month leading up to the fire season. Implement a municipal Fire Prevention Plan. Maintain an up to date Emergency Management Plan. Identify flood-prone land throughout the Shire.
Cultural heritage
Overview
Cultural heritage sites are located on both public and private land throughout the Shire. The 1826 Settlement Site at Corinella is a significant archaeological site. Aboriginal shell middens have been identified in the Coronet Bay area, on the western and southern coastline of Phillip Island and along the Kilcunda/Bunurong coastlines. Many heritage places are popular tourist attractions, including the State Coal Mine at Wonthaggi and Churchill Island.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 11 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Issues
Threats to Aboriginal and early European heritage sites.
Objectives
To protect Aboriginal and early European heritage sites.
Strategies
Identify and protect Aboriginal and early European heritage sites throughout the municipality.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Heritage Overlay over: Heritage sites and buildings listed in the former Wonthaggi Planning Scheme. 1826 Settlement Site at Corinella. Churchill Island, Archies Creek Dairy Produce Company Building, Woolamai House and Wonthaggi State Coal Mine that are on the Register of the National Estate. Jetty Shed at Cowes and St. Paul's Discovery Centre at Newhaven, that are classified/recorded by the National Trust. Grossards 'Lonely Grave' site, Ventnor, house at 15-18 Beach Road, Rhyll, and the property at 34-35 Stradbroke Avenue, Cowes that are of local heritage significance. Applying the Environmental Significance Overlay over: Coronet Bay coastal area where Aboriginal shell middens are located. This area is on the Register of the National Estate. Phillip Island western and southern coastal area where Aboriginal shell middens are located. This area is on the Register of the National Estate. Supporting actions include. Consult Aboriginal Affairs Victoria Register of Aboriginal archaeological sites and the Cultural Officer of the local Aboriginal community (the Wurundjeri tribe) regarding planning applications and rezoning requests in proximity to known or possible Aboriginal cultural heritage sites indicated on the Bass Coast Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Reference Map (AAV, 6/98). Undertake a study of all heritage assets in the Shire.
21.05-3 HOUSING 13/07/2006 C58
Residential development
Overview
The Shire’s population is expected to continue ageing over the next fifteen years, with a real increase in population numbers. Households will gradually become smaller but more numerous.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 12 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Issues
Ageing population and smaller households. Real growth in population size. Demand for greater housing choices, including medium density housing. Provision of aged persons accommodation.
Objectives
To provide a range of housing types and lot sizes to suit the diverse needs of the community. To increase residential densities. To provide aged persons’ accommodation in proximity to town centres.
Strategies
Encourage subdivision of existing lots where local amenity and the environment is not adversely affected, to provide greater diversity in lot sizes and development opportunities. Encourage increased residential densities in all urban areas to reduce pressure on outward expansion of towns and to maximise use of existing infrastructure. Encourage aged persons’ accommodation, including retirement villages and nursing homes to locate in proximity to commercial, service and recreational facilities in Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cowes and San Remo.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Residential 1 Zone over all land developed or committed for residential use in most urban areas (except Kilcunda, Dalyston, Archies Creek and Bass), and in all isolated residential estates (Jam Jerrup, Island Road Estate, Tenby Point, Adams Estate, Mabilia Road Estate). Applying Township Zone over Kilcunda, Dalyston, Archies Creek and Bass. Supporting actions include: Promote energy efficient building and subdivision design.
Rural living and low density residential development
Overview
Properly planned rural living (on lots generally between 2ha and 8ha) and low density residential development (on lots generally between 0.4ha to 2.0ha) is a legitimate activity providing for a particular lifestyle. Residents can contribute significantly to the economy and social fabric of local communities. In the past the location and design has generally been ad hoc resulting from discrete and isolated low density residential subdivisions, or from the restructuring of old and inappropriate subdivisions which are scattered throughout the Shire. Only some low density residential development has been located on the periphery of towns, for example, at Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cowes and Corinella.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 13 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
The Draft Bass Coast Shire Rural and Rural Residential Strategy, AGC Woodward-Clyde, 1997 identifies that there are sufficient vacant low density residential lots in the Shire to meet total demand for the foreseeable future.
Issues
Pressure to subdivide rural land into rural living and low density residential lots. Maintenance of urban consolidation policy. Over-supply of existing rural living and low density residential lots throughout the municipality. Impact on the environment. Protection of high quality agricultural land in viable rural holdings.
Objectives
To maintain existing urban boundaries. To minimise the impact of development on the environment. To retain viable rural holdings located on high quality agricultural land. To restructure old and inappropriate residential subdivisions into low density residential lots.
Strategies
Strongly discourage rural living and low density residential subdivision outside existing town boundaries, except in accordance with approved Restructure Plans. Strongly discourage rural living and low density residential development to locate in areas that compromise the potential future development of towns. They should be located on the periphery of, but be functionally part of, existing urban settlement. Ensure any new rural living and low density residential development is located in proximity to, and contributes equitably to, the distribution of physical and community infrastructure. Require all low density residential properties to be connected to a reticulated sewerage system or be capable of disposing of effluent on-site. All rural living properties should be capable of disposing of effluent on-site. Encourage innovative, energy efficient building design and facilities such as solar/wind powered electricity generation, self-composting toilets, and re-use of waste water to minimise the impact of development on the natural environment and landscape quality. Encourage land owners to plant indigenous species of trees and shrubs to minimise soil degradation and contribute to wildlife corridors. Ensure that design and siting of development takes into consideration fire safety of residents. Strongly discourage low density residential development in areas of high quality natural environment or landscape significance, in areas affected by environmental hazards (salinity, erosion, landslip, subsistence, wildfire or flooding), or in areas having a significant sand resource. Strongly discourage any subdivision of high quality agricultural land. Actively promote restructuring of old and inappropriate subdivisions where Restructure Plans exist.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 14 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Limit development in old and inappropriate subdivisions to ensure that future development opportunities are not unduly prejudiced.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Low Density Residential Zone over all land developed or committed for low density residential development on the periphery of urban areas at Corinella, Grantville, Ventnor, Cowes, Sunset Strip/Sunderland Bay, San Remo, Wonthaggi (north and south), and Inverloch (west). Applying Rural Living Zone over all land developed or committed for rural living development that is either isolated or is physically separated from urban areas at Hurdy Gurdy Creek environs, Wattle Bank, Ruttle Lane, Mabilia Road Estate, Woolamai, Bass, South Wonthaggi and Inverloch (east). Applying Development Plan Overlay over partially development land zoned Rural Living at Ruttle Lane, Inverloch. Applying Restructure Overlay over: Rural zoned land at Queensferry and Dudley. Township zoned land at Kilcunda and Dalyston. Residential 1 zoned land at Adams Estate. Using local policy Clause 22.02 Fire safety and wildfire hazard to determine whether a planning application has regard to fire safety and wildfire hazard issues. Limiting development within old and inappropriate subdivisions where Restructure Plans do not exist by including these areas in Farming Zone with or without a Development Plan Overlay. Supporting actions include: Prepare and implement a Developer Contribution Plan for the Shire. Undertake a study of old and inappropriate subdivisions throughout the municipality, including Scenic Road Estate, Glen Alvie, Glen Forbes, Kernot, Almurta, Woolamai and Maher's Landing.
Small rural lots
Overview
Small rural lots created by an excision from a larger lot or by the re-subdivision of existing titles are scattered throughout the rural areas of the Shire. They are generally isolated from social and physical infrastructure. It is recognised that small rural lots located in the vicinity of existing rural hamlets, where infrastructure exists, can add to the economy and social fabric of these communities that have suffered from general population decline in the rural areas.
Issues
Revitalisation of rural hamlets. Protection of high quality agricultural land in viable rural holdings. Over-supply of existing low density residential and rural living lots throughout the municipality.
MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENT - CLAUSE 21.05 PAGE 15 OF 32 BASS COAST PLANNING SCHEME
Objectives
To limit the creation of small rural lots. To revitalise small rural communities. To retain viable rural holdings, particularly on high quality agricultural land.
Strategies
Encourage limited small rural lot development to concentrate in proximity to existing social and physical infrastructure. Encourage limited small rural lot development in or near the following rural hamlets: Almurta Glen Alvie Glen Forbes Kernot Krowera Woodleigh Woolamai Strongly discourage the creation of small rural lots from viable rural holdings, particularly in areas of high agricultural quality.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Farming Zone generally throughout the rural areas of the Shire, having a minimum lot size for new subdivision of 40 hectares. Applying Rural Conservation Zone over Proclaimed Water Catchment Areas to control use or development with a minimum lot size for new subdivision of 40 hectares. Using local policy Clause 22.03 Small rural lots in rural zones to determine the appropriateness of a proposed small rural lot subdivision.
21.05-4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 13/07/2006 C58
Business
Overview
The main business centres at Wonthaggi, Cowes, San Remo, Grantville and Inverloch provide retailing and community facility needs for the local and wider population. Smaller centres provide the day to day needs of the local community as well as acting as a social gathering point.
Issues
Maintain current role and function of each town's business centre. Future business opportunities and directions.
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Objectives
To provide adequate areas of business zoned land to meet the demands and expectations of the local and wider population, investors, local traders, and visitors. To have attractive, functional, and viable business centres. To increase business activity in the Shire.
Strategies
Examine opportunities for future commercial expansion at Wonthaggi, adjoining or adjacent to the existing Central Business District (CBD). Provide for limited expansion of the Grantville commercial area. Encourage businesses dealing with bulky retail goods to establish at the entrance to Wonthaggi or on the periphery of the town's business core. Encourage retailing activities to locate within the Cowes business centre. Encourage commercial and community uses to establish on undeveloped business zoned land at Corinella. Promote the unique character of Cowes, Inverloch and Grantville through urban design measures. Promote the design and siting of commercial development that enhances the entrance to Wonthaggi township. Facilitate the establishment and further development of new enterprises in the Shire, particularly those that generate new employment opportunities. Council will also engender an atmosphere of certainty for the establishment of such enterprises.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Business 1 Zone over all existing core retail areas at Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cowes, Grantville and San Remo. Applying Business 1 Zone over local neighbourhood centres at Corinella, Coronet Bay, Newhaven and Cape Paterson. Applying Business 4 Zone over land at the entrance to Wonthaggi township and on the periphery of the town's business core. Supporting actions include: Implement Council's Economic Development Strategy 1998. Prepare design and siting guidelines for commercial development at the entrances to Wonthaggi township. Implement the streetscape master plans for Cowes and Inverloch, and the urban design guidelines for Grantville and Wonthaggi.
Industry
Overview
Wonthaggi is the principal base for industrial activity in the Shire, boasting large manufacturing companies such as Boral Cyclone and Coldon Homes. These large
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enterprises afford significant economic multiplier benefits for the Shire and employ significant numbers of people. Smaller industrial estates are located in Cowes, Inverloch, Newhaven, and Grantville generally providing a local service industry function.
Issues
Maintain the role and function of existing industrial areas. Adequate supply of industrial land. Separation of industrial areas from sensitive land uses. Industrial development standards. Future industrial opportunities and directions.
Objectives
To provide an adequate supply of industrial zoned land in the Shire with future demand focussed on Wonthaggi with its existing infrastructure base. To locate industrial development where it has minimum impact on surrounding land uses. To have high quality industrial estates. To increase industrial activity in the Shire. To encourage the establishment of manufacturing and processing industries at Grantville that use stone as a raw material.
Strategies
Encourage new industrial development to locate within existing industrial estates where all physical infrastructure is available, and which are readily accessible to transport networks. Provide for limited expansion of the Grantville industrial area. Encourage the relocation of industrial activities from predominantly residential areas to new industrial estates. Encourage ‘hi-tech’ and other industries that have minimal off-site effects, to locate in small towns such as Archies Creek and Dalyston, and, in the Inverloch industrial estate. Improve the quality and appearance of industrial development by introducing design and siting guidelines. Facilitate the establishment and further development of industry in the Shire, particularly those that generate new employment opportunities. Council will also engender an atmosphere of certainty for the establishment of industry. Encourage the establishment of ‘value-adding’ industries within the Shire. Facilitate the establishment of stone-related industries in the Grantville area.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Industrial 1 Zone over existing industrial estates at Wonthaggi, Newhaven, Grantville, and Cowes.
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Applying Industrial 3 Zone over the existing industrial estate at Inverloch reflecting the impact industry may have on the surrounding residential area. Applying Township Zone over Archies Creek and Dalyston to provide opportunities for new industries to establish in these towns. Applying Mixed Use Zone over an under-utilised industrial area, partly developed and surrounded by residential uses in Settlement Road, Cowes. Applying Mixed Use Zone over an under-utilised industrial area surrounded by residential development on the north-west corner of Genista Street and Back Beach Road, San Remo. Applying Development Plan Overlay over the Cowes Industrial Area and surrounding land to provide for the co-ordinated development of this area. Supporting actions include: Prepare design and siting guidelines for all industrial development. Implement Council's Economic Development Strategy 1998. Promote Archies Creek and Dalyston as attractive, viable locations for new businesses such as hi-tech industries.
Tourism
Overview
Tourism is a major contributor to the local, regional and State economies. The coastlines of Western Port Bay and Bass Strait, as well as Phillip Island, are major tourist destinations. People visit the Shire because of the unique natural attributes, complemented with built attractions, such as the Phillip Island Motor Racing Track. A range of accommodation, eating establishments, and shops contribute to the visitor’s experience and to the economy, by providing local job opportunities, investment possibilities, and, services and facilities for residents.
Issues
Balance between competing interests of protecting the environment and promoting tourist development. Expansion of tourism opportunities. Sustained and co-ordinated tourist development. Promotion as an all year round tourist destination.
Objectives
To promote sustained and co-ordinated tourist development throughout the Shire. To create a balance between protection and enhancement of natural resources which attract tourists to the area, and future tourist development. To have the Shire recognised nationally and internationally as a major tourist destination, and as a place for significant sporting and cultural events. To support a regional approach to tourism in cooperation with Tourism Victoria. To provide diversity in tourist accommodation, eating establishments, and attractions.
Strategies
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Encourage new tourist development to locate within identified tourist precincts and at other locations that may be identified in a Shire Tourism Plan. Encourage complementary tourist facilities to group together, particularly in identified tourist precincts, utilising existing tourist infrastructure, facilities and services. Strongly discourage ad hoc tourist development along tourist routes outside identified tourist precincts, distant from existing tourist and urban infrastructure, and in scenic areas. Encourage development of tourist facilities and services that are compatible with and add value to the existing built and natural attractions of the Shire. Actively promote tourist development that will contribute and reinforce the Shire as an all-year round tourist destination. Encourage eco-nature and cultural/heritage based tourist development throughout the Shire. Facilitate the development of integrated recreation or nature based tourist developments at suitable locations, particularly those sites for where planning approvals have been obtained, including the 'Wintersun' development at Berry’s Beach Road, Phillip Island and the George Bass Golf Links Resort at San Remo. Facilitate the establishment of further tourism development and initiatives in the Shire, particularly those that generate new employment opportunities. Council will also engender an atmosphere of certainty for the introduction of such enterprises. Encourage Parks Victoria to adequately develop and promote their assets in the area including the State Coal Mine, Wonthaggi, the Bunurong Marine Park and the waters and facilities of Western Port Bay. Encourage new tourist development to be sited and designed to minimise its impact on the natural environment. Promote the Shire as having the proven ability, capacity and facilities to host a diverse range of sporting and cultural events. Provide the necessary infrastructure needed to host major sporting and cultural events. Promote the newly created Phillip Island Nature Park and Seal Rocks development as world class diverse and stimulating eco/nature based tourism destinations. Encourage tours, conferences and educational experiences based on the unique natural environment and heritage assets of the Shire. Promote a changing image of Phillip Island, particularly Cowes, from being simply a “budget” holiday destination to being attractive to more sophisticated markets. Encourage tourist accommodation, recreational activities, primary produce sales and tasting linked or dependent upon agricultural activities, to establish in rural areas. Facilitate the integration of the various tourist attractions on Phillip Island, and in other tourist areas into a cohesive product that can be readily marketed to visitors. Facilitate the establishment and operation of an industry based Regional Tourist Association. Facilitate the establishment and operation of local tourism and/or business associations. Support Tourism Victoria's regional development plans and strategic business plan. Consider further the proposals recommended in the Western Port Tourism Strategy 1995 and the Phillip Island Winter Tourism Strategy 1995. Encourage development which is innovative, attracts visitors throughout the year, is conducive to overnight stays or which leads to new tourist products or promotions.
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Encourage the development of short-term tourist accommodation such as holiday units/cabins in all towns, but particularly at Corinella, Coronet Bay, San Remo, Cowes, and Inverloch. Encourage additional and a diverse range of restaurants and evening facilities at Cowes. Actively promote local art and craft people to establish home-based cottage industries with either direct sale to the pubic, through local retail outlets, at community markets, or at major tourist destinations. Encourage tourist development (possibly with a heritage theme) to establish in Bass township. Encourage tourist accommodation to establish in Kilcunda.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Mixed Use Zone where tourist related development is to be encouraged: Along the Cowes foreshore, and along Thompson Avenue south of the Cowes business centre to Settlement Road. Along the foreshore at Rhyll. On the south side of Phillip Island Road, Newhaven. Commercial centre at Cape Woolamai East. Phillip Island Tourist Road east of the San Remo business centre. Foreshore at Inverloch. Commercial area at Smiths Beach.
Applying Special Use Zone over the Phillip Island Motor Racing Track. Using local policy Clause 22.05 Tourist development to consider tourist-related planning applications. Using Planning Tourism: Planning Guidelines, Tourism Victoria, 1996 and CFA guidelines on group accommodation and recreation accommodation in assessing applications for tourist development. Supporting actions include: Promote Bass as an attractive, viable location for tourist development (possibly with a heritage theme,) and Kilcunda for tourist accommodation. Implement Council's Economic Development Strategy 1998, which includes the preparation of a Tourism Plan for the whole Shire, and facilitating the establishment of an industry based Regional Tourist Association, and a local tourism and/or business association. Develop a Special Events Policy for the Shire. Promote the Shire's attributes and investment opportunities for tourist development. Facilitate and support events in the Shire. Undertake maintenance and further development of the Cowes, Cape Paterson, Inverloch, and Newhaven caravan parks.
Recreation
Overview
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The coastal areas of the Shire are a popular destination for day-trippers and holiday makers, particularly in the summer months due to the proximity of outer metropolitan Melbourne. Popular past-times include swimming, surfing, boating, fishing, cycling, walking and sightseeing. Local shops, eating establishments, and service industry associated with recreational equipment, meet the demands of day-trippers and holiday makers. There is also a wide range of recreational facilities and open space areas available to both residents and visitors for year-round use.
Issues
Distribution and type of facilities. Standard of facilities. Impact of recreational pursuits on the environment.
Objectives
To provide a range of passive and active recreational facilities that caters for the needs of the local population, as well as tourist, seasonal holiday-makers and day-trippers. To provide recreational facilities that provide for year-round activities, particularly for the winter months. To provide recreational activities and facilities that have minimal effect on the natural environment.
Strategies
Link recreation areas by pedestrian and cycle networks within, and between, towns. Provide well laid out car parks, toilet blocks and good road access in proximity to popular beaches, and, cycle and walking tracks along the coastline. Provide recreational facilities and activities that are compatible with the size, role, character, and appearance of the town in which they are located. Examine opportunities for the provision of safe boat havens, launching ramps, walking tracks, and foreshore access points within the Shire. Encourage complementary water based recreational activities and facilities to group together along the coastline. Support local surf life saving clubs and other community groups in the promotion and provision of a safe recreational environment. Maintain and enhance the most frequently used coastal facilities and reserves. Establish pedestrian and bicycle networks along the coastline, as well as linking the coast to other areas of natural beauty and interest, open space areas, sites of cultural significance, and the rural hinterland. Encourage maximum use of existing recreational facilities. Examine opportunities to establish year-round passive and active recreational facilities, particularly in Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cowes, San Remo, and Grantville. Maintain and improve the quality and variety of recreational opportunities without affecting the natural environment. Actively pursue the use of treated waste water for irrigating broad acre recreation areas.
Implementation
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These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Public Park and Recreation Zone over all public land used for public open space and recreation areas. Applying underlying zone to private recreational facilities. Supporting actions include: Contribute financially to the upgrade of Cape Woolamai life saving facility. Undertake redevelopment of the Inverloch and Newhaven boat ramps and track rehabilitation at Inverloch foreshore reserve. Undertake coastal works including week eradication, car park and access track maintenance, fencing, revegetation, sign maintenance, public amenity cleaning and maintenance, and beach cleaning. Implement a Municipal Recreation Plan. Develop and implement the Coronet Bay Leisure and Recreation Management Plan. Develop detailed master plans for coastal reserves with high visitation throughout the Shire. Promote and contribute to the Summer Safety Program, which includes brochures, signage and advertising aimed at informing visitors of the dangers associated with surf, cliffs and fire. Develop the Anderson-Wonthaggi Rail Trail.
Agriculture
Overview
Agricultural activities, particularly dairy and beef cattle, are a significant contributor to the local and regional economies, and a major source of local employment. Agriculture is the main land use of the Shire’s hinterland and as such creates an attractive landscape backdrop to the coastal areas.
Issues
Protection of high quality agricultural land. Diversification of agricultural products. Value adding rural industries in the Shire. Pressure to subdivide land.
Objectives
To establish a strong and vibrant rural agricultural community comprising a range of diversified enterprises that are efficiently managed and ecologically sustainable. To retain viable rural holdings, particularly on high quality agricultural land. Value-adding rural industries to establish in the Shire.
Strategies
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Encourage diversification of agricultural practices including introduction of new crops and animals, use of energy efficient technology, and ecologically sustainable farming techniques. Encourage use, development and management of land that is conducive to maintaining options and opportunities for future farming activities. Actively encourage the planting of locally indigenous vegetation to provide shelter for livestock, minimise soil erosion and salinity, enhance landscape quality, and provide further opportunities for wildlife corridors. Continue to support Landcare and Land for Wildlife programs. Encourage farmers to prepare and implement Whole Farm Plans for their property, as appropriate, addressing issues such as fire safety and prevention, land degradation, land management practices, and diversification in crops and animals. Actively promote in conjunction with other agencies and bodies the benefits of ecologically sustainable land management and native vegetation retention. Encourage tourist accommodation, recreational activities, primary produce sales and tasting, linked or dependent upon agricultural activities, to establish in rural areas. Tourist or recreation-based resorts such as golf courses are to be discouraged from establishing on high quality agricultural land. Strongly discourage any subdivision of high quality agricultural land. Strongly discourage the creation of small rural lots from viable rural holdings, particularly in areas of high agricultural quality. Encourage the restructuring of existing titles to more adequately respond to sustainable farming operations and environmental objectives. Encourage rural industries which package and/or process local primary products to establish in the Shire in proximity to their raw product.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Farming Zone generally throughout the rural areas of the Shire, having a minimum lot size for new subdivision of 40 hectares. Applying Rural Conservation Zone over Proclaimed Water Catchment Areas to control use and development, with a minimum lot size for new subdivision of 40 hectares. Using local policy Clause 22.03 Small rural lots in rural zones to determine the appropriateness of a proposed small rural lot subdivision. Supporting actions include: Encourage the establishment of representative primary industry groups to advise Council on primary industry issues. Develop and implement a Land Management Biodiversity Incentive Scheme that will recognise and reward landholders that adopt land management principles to improve sustainable agricultural opportunities and protect and enrich the natural environment.
Forestry and timber production
Overview
There is no forestry or timber production occurring in the Shire. However, there are many parts of the rural area that are suitable for timber plantations. The growing of softwood and
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hardwood timber plantations by farmers to supplement their incomes, or whole properties being used for timber plantations is a legitimate use of rural land, particularly if it is not of high agricultural quality or land capability and the land is predominantly cleared.
Issues
Establishment of forestry and timber production enterprises.
Objectives
To establish softwood and hardwood timber plantations in rural areas on land which is not of high agricultural quality or land capability, and is predominantly cleared of indigenous vegetation.
Strategies
Encourage timber plantations to establish in areas of average to poor agricultural quality and land capability. Discourage the removal of indigenous vegetation for the establishment of timber plantations. Discourage timber plantations to locate in areas of high landscape and environmental quality.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Farming Zone generally throughout the rural areas of the Shire, where no permit is required for timber production.
Extractive Industry
Overview
There are three Extractive Industry Interest Areas (EIIA) in the Shire as identified in Melbourne Supply Area Extractive Industry Interest Areas, Geological Survey of Victoria, Technical Record 1996, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, 1996. These are significant sand resources in The Gurdies - Grantville area, an existing quarry on Phillip Island; and, potential sand/gravel resources north of Inverloch. The known sand resources at The Gurdies-Grantville area will become increasingly important for concrete sand supplies in metropolitan Melbourne over the next twenty years. Although extractive industry itself may not employ many workers, the transporting of material, the associated service activities and related industrial activities provide employment opportunities for the local population.
Issues
Protection of existing and potential stone resources. Impact of extractive industry on the natural environment. Conflict between competing land uses and quarrying interests.
Objectives
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To ensure the long term protection of known and potential stone resources. To effectively manage extractive industry in response to surrounding land uses and natural environment.
Strategies
Manage the sand resource in The Gurdies-Grantville area in accordance with the Regional Sand Extraction Strategy Lang Lang to Grantville, 1996, regarding: Extraction of the sand resource. Interim uses of resource areas. Rehabilitation and end use. Protection of surface water quality. Protection of groundwater quality and quantity. Conservation of flora and fauna. Provision of an efficient and safe transport infrastructure. Protection of residential amenity. Conservation of landscape quality. Protection of sites of cultural significance. Environmental Management Programs and Environmental Review Committees.
Ensure that extraction of stone is carried out in accordance with acceptable environmental standards. Discourage extractive industry activities to occur in areas of high landscape and environmental quality. Discourage incompatible use or development from locating on, or within, buffers of known stone/sand resources.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Special Use Zone over land where Works Approvals or planning permits have been issued for extractive industry. Applying Farming Zone over land of known, or potential, stone resource where Works Approval or planning permits have not been issued for extractive industry. Referring to Extractive Industry Interest Areas map for Bass Coast Shire when considering applications in The Gurdies - Grantville area, the area north of Inverloch and around the existing quarry on Phillip Island. Supporting actions include: Implement Council's Economic Development Strategy 1998. Implement the Regional Sand Extraction Strategy Lang Lang to Grantville, 1996.
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21.05-5 INFRASTRUCTURE 19/01/2006 VC37
Transport
Overview
The existing transport network links primary producers (agricultural products and sand materials) to their markets. The quality of the network is vital to the competitiveness of the Shire’s products in regional, State and worldwide markets. The majority of residents and visitors to the Shire rely on cars for transportation, although bus loads of tourists visit Phillip Island daily. The privately owned airfield and ferry service at Phillip Island is also orientated to the tourist market. Bicycling is a popular mode of transport for residents and tourists, particularly on Phillip Island.
Issues
Efficient road network for primary producers, tourists and residents. Provision of car parking facilities. Provision of cycling/walking tracks. Future operations of the Phillip Island airfield. Efficient public and community transport system.
Objectives
To have an effective and efficient road network throughout the Shire, and to adjacent and nearby municipalities. To provide adequate car parking facilities in proximity to tourist attractions, recreation destinations, the coastline, and shopping centres. To create a bicycle path network between and within towns. To have an efficiently operated airfield based on tourism. To have an efficient public and community transport system operating within, and to, the Shire.
Strategies
Support State government initiatives to improve the road network, including duplication of Bass Highway from South Gippsland Highway to Phillip Island Tourist Road. Investigate a suitable site for the vehicular ferry link between the Mornington Peninsula and Cowes. Upgrade roads linking the coastline and the rural hinterland, and within towns. Improve road facilities for local residents, tourists and commercial interests. Fully constructed streets in all towns, designed in consultation with the local community to provide ready access to emergency vehicles. Encourage extensive consultation between the various government departments, Council and residents where proposed major roadworks impact on the natural environment.
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Require full street construction and drainage works for all new residential and low density residential subdivisions. Support State government initiatives to provide better tourist signs and access to tourist locations, especially for buses, campervans and car towing caravans, more roadside rest areas and improved maintenance of scenic viewing spots. Provide pedestrians and cyclists with safe routes along coastal roads, in foreshore areas, and around popular recreational/tourist areas. Liaise with the State government in preparing management plans to guide roadside works and revegetation programs along arterial roads. Sufficient car parking spaces in the commercial areas of Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cowes and San Remo. Provide car parking facilities along the coastline in proximity to recreation areas, access routes to the beach, and scenic spots in areas which do not degrade the quality of the natural environment or landscape significance. Plant shady native trees within and along the border of car parking areas in shopping precincts, particularly in Cowes and Inverloch. Locate car parking areas within easy walking distance of shops and services, accessed via attractive pedestrian ways. Extend the existing bicycle path network on Phillip Island, and examine possible routes along the coastline, part of the former Nyora-Wonthaggi railway line and, in and around Wonthaggi and Inverloch to take in places of natural and historic interest. Ensure that development in proximity to the Phillip Island airfield does not adversely impact on its operation. Support relevant authorities in the provision of an efficient public transport system with regular bus services linking all major towns to Wonthaggi. Provide an efficient community transport network in the Shire.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Road Zone - Category 1 over all roads declared under the Transport Act 1983. Applying Road Zone - Category 1 over other significant roads in the Shire. Applying Road Zone - Category 2 over Ventnor Beach Road, Rhyll-Newhaven Road, Cowes-Rhyll Road, Inverloch-Outrim Road, Pound Creek Road, and Berrys Road. Applying Public Park and Recreation Zone along the Nyora-Wonthaggi railway line. Applying Airport Environs Overlay - Schedule 2 over land within the 20 ANEF contour for the Phillip Island airport. Applying Design and Development Overlay over residentially zoned land in proximity to the east-west run-way of the Phillip Island airfield. Applying Public Acquisition Overlay along part of the Bass Highway proposed to be widened, with the Roads Corporation nominated as the acquiring authority. Applying Public Acquisition Overlay over land required to provide car parking and access at the rear of the San Remo shopping centre, with Council nominated as the acquiring authority. Using local policy Clause 22.04 Cowes Commercial Area that identifies preferred car parking areas, access and pedestrian links, when considering any new development for this area.
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Supporting actions include: Actively engage in discussions with representatives from all parties involved in the establishment of the Mornington Peninsula to Cowes vehicular ferry. In consultation with agencies such as Westernport Water, DNRE and EPA, examine appropriate waste management arrangements associated with the establishment and siting of the ferry facility, which may include establishing sewerage pump out facilities. Implement the streetscape master plans for Inverloch and Cowes, particularly traffic control devices and pedestrian/traffic separation techniques. Develop and implement local traffic management plans for all towns. Develop the Anderson-Wonthaggi Rail Trail. Upgrade Loch-Kernot Road and Gap Road. Produce Car Park precinct plans for townships. Support Bass Coast - South Gippsland Regional Transport Project.
Community Services
Overview
There are several primary schools located in the Shire, with a secondary school at Newhaven, and a secondary school and TAFE college at Wonthaggi. Hospitals exist at Wonthaggi and Cowes, with pre-schools and infant welfare centres situated in the major towns.
Issues
Ready access to education, medical, family and aged services and facilities.
Objectives
To provide a range of readily accessible educational, medical and community services and facilities for all sectors of the community.
Strategies
Encourage full-time medical services at Corinella/Coronet Bay, in particular. Ensure educational, medical, and community facilities and services are sited to maximise accessibility to the local community. Encourage district/regional facilities and services to locate in Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cowes, Grantville and San Remo. Encourage the provision of youth services in the Shire. Facilitate and monitor a comprehensive range of services for infants, children, youth, and families throughout the Shire. Encourage pre-school and infant welfare centres to locate within reasonable travelling time of all residents, preferably in proximity to recreation, entertainment and support services for pre-schoolers, toddlers, babies, and their carers. Encourage childcare centres to locate in readily accessible areas.
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Provide aged care services, such as meals-on-wheels, district nursing, and home help to the aged, to enable the aged to remain at home in their local community with their friends and relatives, rather than moving out of an area where more suitable accommodation is available. Resource and support volunteer community groups and agencies to provide a range of services to residents. Require developers of all new subdivisions to provide an appropriate level of community infrastructure.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Public Use Zone over public hospitals, schools, health and community facilities, cemeteries and local government offices/library etc. Supporting actions include: Undertake Community Development Program projects including: On-going planning and financial support of Maternal & Child Health Service, Outreach Program, and preschools. Development of a Disability Action and Falls Prevention Project in conjunction with South Gippsland Shire. Various Home and Community Care Services, and Youth Development Projects. Implement the recommendations of the HACC Transport Study. Provide on-going support to community bus and volunteer transport programs. Develop and implement a Developer Contributions Plan.
Physical
Overview
Physical infrastructure includes the provision of water supply and sewerage, drainage services and waste management. Reticulated water provided to most towns comes from either the Lance Creek or Candowie reservoirs located in the rural hinterland of the Shire. Most towns are connected to a reticulated sewerage system, the exceptions being Jam Jerrup, Harmers Haven and The Gurdies. Low density residential and rural living properties operate on-site effluent disposal systems. There is inadequate street drainage infrastructure in some urban areas. Council operates a landfill site at Grantville.
Issues
Lack of natural gas in the Shire. Provision and expansion of sewerage areas. Inadequate street drainage infrastructure in some urban areas. Unconstructed urban roads. Quality and quantity of water. Effective waste management services.
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Objectives
To have reticulated water and sewerage available to all urban areas. To have adequate drainage services. To have natural gas provided to the Shire. To maintain and improve water quality and supply. To provide an effective waste management service in the Shire. To provide an appropriate level of physical infrastructure in new subdivisions.
Strategies
Require all new residential and low density residential development to connect to all available reticulated services. Require full street construction and drainage works for all new residential and low density residential subdivisions. Allocate funds to progressively construct streets and drainage works in areas where they are presently lacking. Encourage the incorporation of urban stormwater quality management (ie detention, treatment, wetlands etc.) into future, and where practicable, existing urban subdivisions. Work in partnership with other Councils and government agencies to implement land and water management programs, identified in the West Gippsland Regional Catchment Strategy and the Port Phillip and Western Port Regional Catchment Strategy. Maintain and improve indigenous vegetation and land management practices within Proclaimed Water Catchment Areas. Take part in negotiations to extend the reticulated natural gas system to Bass Coast Shire. Require developers of all new subdivisions to provide an appropriate level of physical infrastructure. Provide adequate and readily accessible landfill sites. Actively promote opportunities that exist for innovative enterprises to use the recycled wastewater from sewerage treatment plants at Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Cowes and Corinella/Coronet Bay.
Implementation
These strategies will be implemented by: Applying Residential 1 Zone over all land developed or committed for residential use in most urban areas (except Kilcunda, Dalyston, Archies Creek and Bass), and in all isolated residential estates (Jam Jerrup, Island Road Estate, Tenby Point, Adams Estate, Mabilia Road Estate). Applying Township Zone over Kilcunda, Dalyston, Archies Creek and Bass. Applying Low Density Residential Zone over all land developed or committed for low density residential development on the periphery of the urban areas at Corinella, Grantville, Ventnor, Cowes, Sunset Strip / Sunderland Bay, San Remo, Wonthaggi (north and south), and Inverloch (west).
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Applying Public Use Zone 1 - Service and Utility over land owned by Westernport Water Authority, South Gippsland Region Water Authority and Council's landfill site at Grantville. Applying Environmental Significance Overlay over Residential 1 Zone where reticulated sewerage is not available. Supporting actions include: Develop and implement a Developer Contribution Plan for the Shire. Implement and review Council's Waste Management Strategy 1997.
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