Zoe Moffatt
The draft Romsey Structure Plan was endorsed by Macedon Ranges council at its meeting on July 26, with questions raised about the plans effectiveness.
The plan seeks to replace Romsey’s current development plan, and focuses on determining the settlement boundary, adding vibrancy to the town centre and protecting the town’s character.
Councillor Geoff Neil voted for the motion and said while he believes the plan has flaws, it is important that it is released for community consultation.
“Like many of us in the chamber I too have been contacted by at least 20 residents [and] … most have expressed concern,” Cr Neil said.
“The document has flaws, I acknowledge that, I have found a few myself but … I’m very happy that we are now allowing the other 5000 plus residents and others to … make comments.”
Cr Rob Guthrie spoke against the plan and said last time he was on council, development plans for Gisborne and Romsey were created but none of it has happened
“My concern with this is that again, we’re putting something out to the community, we’ve got no plans,” Cr Guthrie.
“Last time I was on council we … [outlined] development plans for Gisborne and Romsey and a lot of infrastructure was identified [that] was needed before the town was to grow.
“From what I can see none of that has happened.
“My concern [is] we’ve built those false expectations in the past and nothing has happened and now we’re talking about rezoning more land for residential purposes without the infrastructure to support it.”
Deputy mayor Jennifer Anderson said she understands Cr Guthrie’s perspective but council has limited resources.
“Unfortunately there are plenty of things in our planning scheme that haven’t come to fruition but we only have limited resources,” Cr Anderson said.
“[Tonight] is not … for us to tell you all the things we may have concerns on, because we need to hear from you.”
The draft plan will go out for community consultation for six weeks.
