‘Great potential’ in North plan

Acquiring land along Horsham’s rail corridor, completing a master plan for Dudley Cornell Park and redeveloping open and public play spaces are among first-year commitments in a 10year development strategy for the city’s north.

It will add to existing efforts to construct or reinstate footpaths, improve safety, plant trees, undertake a third art installation at the Horsham Silos site and complete a housing diversity and affordability strategy within 12 months.

Horsham Rural City Council unanimously voted to adopt its ‘Horsham North Local Area Plan’ at its latest meeting on Monday last week.

It comes after several phases of community consultation since 2021 – which culminated in a six-week feedback period to a draft plan last year.

Mayor Robyn Gulline said previous engagement about developments in Horsham’s north had focused on the railway precinct – which remained government-owned land.

“Council still does not have control of that Victrack land,” she said.

“It’s been a very long, drawn-out process that several councils – not just us – have been working on.

“I understand the community’s frustration, but council is equally frustrated and we are working as hard we can, with the government agency, to get access to that land.”

Cr Gulline said 10 projects were nearing completion, or scheduled for completion within 12 months.

“As some of these projects roll out, community engagement and involvement, in a variety of capacities, will be sought – and most keenly sought – so that we are delivering for the community, who are going to be using these services and facilities, and they meet their needs and meet their expectations.”

The plan details three high-level strategies and 10 overarching goals.

In relation to land use and future character, the plan seeks to facilitate sustainable housing and population; improve the image, character and identity in Horsham North; promote economic activity and opportunities; and provide up-to-date community facilities.

In relation to access and connections, the plan seeks to create a walkable, wheelable and bikeable precinct that supports active living; to enhance and promote public transport and regional connectivity; and create safe streets for all users through improved traffic management.

In relation to public and open spaces, it seeks to increase provision of open space; to create accessible, safe and activate public space; and increase tree canopy across all public areas.

Cr David Bowe said the plan had ‘great potential’ for enhancing the community and its character, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.

He called for the council to continue to engage and inform residents on the plan’s progress.

“While there is optimism about the proposed actions, it is paramount for current and future councillors and council staff to keep the Horsham North Local Area Plan at the forefront of their minds and continue to make it a council priority,” he said.

People can read a copy of the plan via hrcc. vic.gov.au