Not matched by acts

Not six months later, the State Government now says it wants the same declaration for the Bellarine and Surf Coast.

It has also vowed to develop a statement of planning policy within a year of its next term

“There’s no denying that our state is growing but that doesn’t mean we should let developers ruin our small towns,” Planning Minister Richard Wynne said.

The Coalition says it will continue with the work it started on the planning statements in 2014, and will introduce strict planning rules within its first 100 days of taking office.

consensus on the need for intervention equate to a quick response?

Taking the example of the Macedon Ranges — known for its landmark Hanging Rock, native forests and scenic gardens — it appears putting the talk into action is a prolonged task.

The Macedon Ranges Residents’ Association has been lobbying since the turn of the century to preserve its natural beauty and guard against over-development.

It had seen election promises come and go from the Coalition, and argues that Labor has made changes that weaken planning controls and leave its region vulnerable.

While buoyed by the declaration in May, the MRRA has major issues with the area’s statement of planning policy, which it describes as weak, vague and still a plan for growth.

“Its lack of unequivocal commitment leaves no room for public confidence,” the MRRA said.

“Let this be a lesson and warning to any other areas in Victoria that want to become ‘declared areas’.”

The 50-year vision was also criticised by the local council last month, which called for practical advice on how to implement and fund the plan.

Cr Helen Radnedge said many of the 340-plus submissions noted that the statement was “too open to interpretation, and lacks clear direction or guidance for planning decisions”.

While they try to find clarity through the fog, the debate drags on and the development proposals keep rolling in.

Amid this wider debate this week, came the public release of a $60 million fivestorey high hotel, pitched to be built in Torquay adjacent the start of the Great Ocean Road.

The proposal was slammed by Labor candidate for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman, who stated his desire for building heights to be limited to two storeys.

But with Geelong hurtling towards 250,000 residents — on its way to a forecast 325,000 by 2036 — can the city continue to meet demand while applying the brakes in those key areas?

If the remaining rural landscapes are protected, and coastlines kept free of highrises, where will the city’s next wave of residents live?

Those vital questions are still to be addressed by both parties.

As the Greater Torquay Alliance noted this week, the devil lies in those hidden details.