Rural Residential Living update
Strathbogie Shire has experienced increasing demand for rural residential living in traditional agricultural locations.
The demand by residents, and potential residents, is to live on some acreage, but not conduct traditional farming activities. The popularity of the north east of Victoria as a lifestyle destination has been rapidly increasing over the last ten years in line with the changing demographics of an aging population. Correspondingly a number of people have been seeking the popular "tree change" lifestyle shift to regional areas.
Rural residential development within the Strathbogie Shire is one of the most significant issues requiring a strategic response by the Council. This demand led to Council undertaking a rural residential strategy to address this development, and establish a strategic position.
The strategy aims to provide certainty for residents wanting to establish homes in a rural environment while still ensuring protection of natural resources, landscape and heritage values and biodiversity of the area. Infrastructure needs to support rural residential living, including roads, electricity and water, will also be considered as part of the strategy.
The 2004 Rural Residential Study provided the initial review and broad strategy, identifying priority areas for targeted growth. The 10 investigation areas centred around the towns of Euroa and Avenel were selected for closer review to determine the potential for development, and to prepare development plans for inclusion in the planning scheme.
Each of the 10 investigation areas presented opportunities and constraints which were considered in the context of their potential to be readily available for rural residential development. This resulted in four areas being selected for detailed development plans.
There is an estimated need for a supply of 250 rural residential lots and a further 170 large residential lots to be created over the next 10 years. The areas chosen need to be distributed across the municipality based on need and proximity to urban centres. Euroa and Avenel will need to provide for 65% of the supply.
The initial stage of investigation will also determine a priority for the commencement of the re zoning process. It is likely due to demand that Avenel will be the first area that will commence this process which requires firstly a report to Council endorsing that the process commences. The final report for Council consideration is expected May 2009.
To view the areas under investigation please go to www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au. Council's website provides a comprehensive report on both areas under investigation and should anyone require additional information they can contact Stacey Hesketh, Manager Strategic Planning on 5795 0000.
For more information: Marli Kelly 0409 410 178