Baw Baw gives feedback on planning reforms

A more detailed state planning policy for agricultural uses and developments has been called for by Baw Baw Shire.

Council has made a submission relating to the state government’s proposed Victorian Planning Provision reforms.

The proposed reforms are the first substantial change to the VPP structure since it was introduced in 1997.

The reforms propose to reflect more modern principles, create a code type approach to low impact applications, rationalise planning permit triggers, review and increase permit exemptions and clarify confusion.

Council’s submission has supported the removal of unnecessary planning triggers and the inclusion of assessment codes.

Council also called on the government to provide a more detailed policy in regard to rural areas.

The submission also suggested more assistance and guidance was required on the transition of uses which are currently allowed with a permit (including conditions) to as of right uses.

While reducing the regulatory burden, officers said the reforms meant a larger percentage of applications will need to be assessed under provisions that have reduced timeframes for decisions and attract lower fees.

Officers said the reduction in the number of permit triggers will reduce the need for the community to engage in the planning permit process.

“Less input into decision making process may leave some residents aggrieved by adjoining land uses or buildings and works that would no longer require a planning permit or that are exempt from notice and review provisions.

“Reduction in the number of permit triggers will reduce the need for the community to engage in the planning permit process.

Cr Darren Wallace said the state government sought feedback on the reforms, that were the first substantial change to planning provisions since 1997.

He said council was responsible for planning decision and would have a major role in implementing the proposed reforms.

“It is no surprise that planning is one of Baw Baw Shire’s busiest departments.

“Planning is a fine line between the community and the developer and the scales should never be tipped to favour either side,” he said.

Cr Danny Goss said council’s submission identified some of the potential impacts of the proposed changes, including reduced transparency of some decision making processes.

“Generally speaking these reforms do make sense but we need to tread carefully.

“We have to be careful to be not driven by inner city public servants and we can still have a say,” he said.

Cr Peter Kostos said Baw Baw Shire was in a totally different agricultural space compared to Mildura, Swan Hill and those areas.

He said there appeared to be a blanket approach to agricultural areas across the state.