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Overview
Council recently adopted a Powerline Improvement Strategy and Policy (PDF - 951KB), following the preparation of a draft document and a public exhibition and submission process which ended in December 2006. The document addresses a theme in the Ballarat community 2030 document Blueprint Ballarat, namely to investigate the undergrounding of Powerlines in the heritage and/or aesthetically important areas of Ballarat.
The Strategy and Policy also addresses Council's desire for a proactive approach in the management of private requests to relocate or underground powerlines. Council now has a formal framework for the assessment and implementation of various projects that will see the undergrounding or replacement with aerial bundled cable (ABC) of existing overhead powerlines.
Tree Pruning
Overhead Powerlines (as well as being visually obtrusive) can have a dramatic impact on the streetscape because of legislative requirements for lines clearance, leading to the severe pruning of many of our street trees. Although the pruning is professionally done and in accordance with best industry practice, the outcome is usually unbalanced and misshapen trees. The cessation of pruning will result in far more aesthetically shaped trees with a corresponding increase in health and stability.
Powerline Strategy and Policy Implementation
With the Strategy and Policy as a framework, Council is now in a strong position to apply for funding from the State Government's Powerline Relocation Committee towards the cost of any relocation works. The Strategy identifies a number of high priority projects (mainly within the central business area), but also opens the way for relocation works in other areas such as heritage streets and the major entrance roads into Ballarat. The Policy sets out guidelines for the funding of various projects, including residential streets where property owners may contribute.
Council will generally try to link any powerline relocation works with its annual road construction projects to maximise the efficiency of the works. However, Council would consider stand-alone projects initiated either by Council or residents, subject of course to budget constraints and appropriate funding arrangements.
Contact Details
For further information please contact Ross Cowie on 03 5320 5664 or email rosscowie@ballarat.vic.gov.au. Alternatively contact Customer Service on 03 5320 5500.