SOUTH MORANG, VIC. — A review of the Whittlesea Planning Scheme will ensure the City of Whittlesea is well placed to manage growth, respond to changing community needs and deliver great places for all residents.
The Planning Scheme Review Report will guide land use and development across the municipality and support the delivery of the City of Whittlesea Community Plan 2025-2029.
Required every four years under the Planning and Environment Act 1987, the review assessed the current planning scheme and identified five key priorities to strengthen its effectiveness.
“The Whittlesea Planning Scheme plays a critical role in shaping how our city grows and develops, and this review sets out clear priorities for growth and evolution and a clear work program to deliver high-quality places for all,” Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Lawrie Cox, said.
These included modernising local planning policy, improving neighbourhood design and liveability, aligning growth with infrastructure delivery, strengthening environmental protections, and recognising Traditional Owner values in planning decisions.
The report noted that the review of the Whittlesea Planning Scheme was undertaken during a period of significant Victorian Government-led planning reform, which has reshaped the planning system in Victoria, with limited input from Councils and communities.
The report also emphasised the importance of Council’s ongoing work with the Victorian Government, agencies, neighbouring councils and the community to deliver better planning outcomes.
“As one of the state’s fastest-growing cities, we need a planning scheme that supports well-designed housing, diverse jobs and economies, industry investment, timely infrastructure and protects and celebrates our natural environment,” Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Lawrie Cox, said.
Following its endorsement by councillors at the October 20 Council Meeting, the Planning Scheme Review Report will be submitted to the Minister for Planning.
