Visitors to Hanging Rock could be in for a ‘freebie’ as Macedon Ranges council calls for the public to have their say on shaping a new masterplan for the tourism precinct.
The council is proposing to open the gates for free entry while the masterplan is being drafted – between now and the end of the year – and it will also launch a social media campaign to encourage people to visit.
Consultants for the council, as well as government and indigenous representatives, business stakeholders and residents met last Tuesday to discuss a long-term vision for the precinct.
Hanging Rock Action Group spokesman Luke Spielvogel said the meeting had been years coming.
“We had our first combined session with council and interested groups and, for the first time in three years, we were in the same room together,” he said.
“Everyone there has the best interest of Hanging Rock at heart, but what those interests are may look a bit different, depending on who you ask.
“On the ground at Hanging Rock, we’re seeing the same things happening … but we’ll engage in the consultation and contribute as best we can to the masterplan.”
Planning and landscape experts Village Well and Aspect Studios have also kicked off the first of a number of meetings with user groups and agencies over coming months.
The draft masterplan will be out for public comment by the end of this year, with the plan due to be finalised by April next year.
Macedon Ranges mayor Graham Hackett encouraged people to get involved in developing the new masterplan.
“Council is keen for direct interest groups, users of the precinct and the broader community to be involved in this process,” Cr Hackett said.
“A comprehensive and exciting consultation program is being prepared to ensure that everyone can have their say on a future vision for the Hanging Rock precinct.
“We’re looking to incorporate social media and also free entry to Hanging Rock Reserve for a specified period during the consultation.”
Meanwhile, a report to set up a new advisory committee for Hanging Rock will go to the council’s July 27 meeting.
The report recommends a new name, composition and role for the committee.
Council will consider seeking expressions of interest for new committee members, with a view to making appointments by the end of November.
For information and regular updates on all project associated with Hanging Rock, go to www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/Hanging-Rock
