A proposed development for Willowbank Road, Gisborne, has progressed with Macedon Ranges council endorsing a post-exhibition change to the planning scheme amendment and requesting the help of an independent planning panel.
The plan for a local activity centre at 101-105 Willowbank Road was considered at a council meeting on September 13.
The site would need to be rezoned to allow the development of a small supermarket, a medical centre, office and cafés and also provide 57 car parking spaces.
The plan received five objections and seven supporting submissions when it was released for community feedback in May.
In the meeting agenda, council officers said a number of unresolved issues remain, including fencing and traffic, and recommended they be referred to an independent planning panel for consideration.
“The acoustic perimeter fencing was a point of both support and opposition among submissions,” officers wrote in the agenda.
“[Council] supports the installation of the acoustic perimeter fencing in principle, but require the proponent to provide evidence that [it] complies with the planning scheme and building regulations.
“A number of submitters were concerned with the current condition of Willowbank Road and its ability to accommodate increased traffic demand. [Council recommends] traffic matters… be referred to the panel.”
Council will seek to have the matter reviewed by an independent planning panel in November with recommendations to be brought for council consideration at a future meeting.
Zoe Moffatt
