Laws to preserve coast

State puts ‘greedy developers’ on notice

DEVELOPERS will not be allowed to turn the Surf Coast into the Gold Coast, says South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman.

Mr Cheeseman said Victoria’s Surf Coast was now permanently protected from overdevelopment and urban sprawl thanks to new planning laws.

“We won’t be letting greedy developers turn our precious Surf Coast into the Gold Coast. We promised to protect it and we’re doing that,” he said.

“We made the commitment during the state election that we would put in place substantial planning controls to ensure that Torquay doesn’t get overdeveloped.

“The community is very, very supportive about protecting Torquay for what it is — an iconic seaside surfing destination.”

Planning Minister Richard Wynne yesterday officially declared Torquay, Jan Juc and surrounds as distinctive areas and landscapes under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

The declaration comes after extensive consultation with communities, councils and traditional owners, and ensures the features of the precious coastline are recognised and prepared for long-term protection.

The Surf Coast declared area focuses on Torquay and Jan Juc, and extends along the coastline from the eastern edge of the Great Otway National Park to Breamlea Flora and Fauna Reserve.

It also covers the hinterland, including the landscape setting of Bellbrae.

Mr Wynne said the State Government was delivering permanent planning protection to preserve everything great about the Surf Coast.

“We’re looking forward to outlining a 50-year vision for the area, which will ensure this precious coastline is protected for generations to come,” he said.

The State Government will start working on a Statement of Planning Policy setting out a 50-year vision for the region to guide development controls and settlement boundaries.

This will provide a framework to ensure the excellent beaches, coastal biodiversity, recreation and tourism attributes of the Surf Coast continue to be of special significance.

The DAL will be subject to the same strong protections that are in place for Melbourne’s permanent Urban Growth Boundary, which requires parliamentary approval for amendments.

For more information on Surf Coast Distinctive Area and Landscape Declaration visit: