An important milestone has been reached in the planning for the first of four new communities in the Ballarat West Growth Area with the approval of the Alfredton West Precinct Structure Plan by the Minister for Planning, the Hon Matthew Guy.
The Alfredton West Precinct Structure Plan will guide the first stages of development for the recently named suburb of Lucas.
City of Ballarat Growth and Development Portfolio Councillor Noel Perry said getting the green light on this development from the Minister will enable the release of this land to market prior to Christmas.
“Council is delighted to have the Minister’s support for this important new housing area” said Cr Perry
“With our population expanding at around 2,000 people each year, this Council needs to remain ahead of the game to facilitate the release of land to market in the most cost effective and efficient manner” Cr Perry said
“This Structure Plan covers an area of 325ha and will deliver around 3,900 new dwellings to house approximately 11,000 people”.
“The plan also includes a neighbourhood activity centre with retail and commercial areas to enhance local shopping and community facilities, educational facilities, public transport, active and passive recreational areas and parkland”.
The plan has undergone extensive consultation with the community, government agencies, service agencies, and other key stakeholders throughout the planning process.
The Alfredton West Precinct Structure Plan forms part of the land earmarked for urban development in the Ballarat West Growth Area Plan that was adopted in September 2009.
Approval of the plan enables development to occur in the precinct and delivers a significant addition to residential land supply in Ballarat to support housing delivery.
The Ballarat West Growth Area is one of the state’s most significant planning projects.
Around 18,000 new homes are planned for Ballarat West, an area of 1600 hectares.
Council is preparing strategic plans that detail the development of the three remaining new neighbourhoods.