THE City of Whittlesea is taking steps to refine and strengthen how local heritage sites are protected, with councillors resolving at the recent Council Meeting to seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare and exhibit proposed Planning Scheme Amendment C280wsea.
The amendment aims to update the information and details for a number of properties already listed in the Heritage Overlay, Council’s key planning tool used to conserve places of cultural and natural significance. No new heritage places are being added as part of the proposal.
A recent review recommended updates to 66 existing heritage sites that require revised citations and Statements of Significance, with a further seven sites identified for other site-specific changes. In total, 73 sites would be affected by the amendment.
Mayor Cr Martin Taylor said the updates would play an important role in ensuring the City of Whittlesea’s heritage continues to be accurately documented and carefully managed.
“Heritage plays a vital role in the City of Whittlesea’s community identity by providing a lasting link to our rich cultural and natural history,” Cr Taylor said.
“Heritage places boost our local economy through tourism and allow future generations to enjoy and learn from these significant sites.
“The proposed amendment will ensure that Council, as well as developers and property owners, have access to the most accurate information about our precious heritage sites. This will help to inform decision-making and streamline the planning permit process.”
If the Minister for Planning authorises the amendment to proceed to exhibition, affected property owners and occupiers will be contacted and invited to provide feedback during a comprehensive community consultation period.
Council says the revised information will improve clarity for developers and landowners when lodging planning applications, and allow for more consistent and efficient permit assessments.
