MACEDON Ranges Shire Council’s October meeting turned its focus to three significant community facilities across the shire, considering the future of a former CFA station in Riddells Creek, a retirement village expansion in New Gisborne, and a childcare proposal in Woodend.
At the meeting, councillors discussed a Victorian Government First Right of Refusal (FRR) purchase offer for the former Riddells Creek CFA Station at 67 Main Road. Rather than making an immediate decision, Council voted to request an extension of time from the State Government to respond to the offer.
The additional time will allow for more targeted community consultation, particularly with the Riddells Creek Men’s Shed and the Lions Club, both of which have expressed interest in the site’s future use. Council also agreed to write to local MP Mary-Anne Thomas and relevant state ministers, seeking their commitment to ongoing engagement and consideration of local preferences before any decision is made.
Councillors emphasised that the former CFA station holds strong community value and that its future should reflect the needs and aspirations of Riddells Creek residents.
Council also approved an amendment to the planning permit for the proposed retirement village at 72 and 74 Ferrier Road, New Gisborne. The amendment increases the number of villas from 96 to 116 and introduces updated villa designs, revised internal roads, and enhanced landscaping plans.
The expanded development aims to meet growing demand for downsizing and age-friendly living options within the shire, while preserving the area’s heritage character and environmental features. Councillors noted that the design revisions respond to community feedback and planning requirements, ensuring that the development remains both functional and visually sensitive to its surroundings.
The meeting also heard an update on the proposed childcare centre at 23 Buckland Street, Woodend. The application has been referred to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) following six community objections.
Council confirmed it will participate in the VCAT proceedings and continue to support the granting of a planning permit for the project. However, its support is contingent upon the inclusion of additional acoustic treatments and detailed landscaping plans to address local amenity concerns.
Collectively, the three agenda items reflect Council’s ongoing efforts to balance community needs, growth, and heritage values across the Macedon Ranges.
