[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″ offset=”vc_col-lg-1/5 vc_col-md-1/5 vc_col-xs-1/5″][us_image image=”78537″ size=”thumbnail” align=”left” style=”circle” has_ratio=”1″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/12″ offset=”vc_col-lg-4/5 vc_col-md-4/5 vc_col-xs-4/5″][vc_column_text]By Warren Waddell[/vc_column_text][us_post_date][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]During the June meeting, Council resolved to progress several items for adoption or further investigation that relate to the rural area.
As part of Council’s ongoing review of its asset base and asset performance, a feasibility study of our Johnson Rd Council depot and former pony club site, has been conducted. The study suggested that despite being heavily encumbered with significant bushland, the RFS facility and a power easement, a financially sustainable outcome could be achieved from approx. 30 per cent of the site.
The inclusion of the RFS facility in the assessment of the site, also highlighted the opportunity to access the site directly off Mid Dural Rd.
Although, only a feasibility study at this stage and with a couple of years of planning ahead, it is encouraging that the established bushland would remain and serve as a natural interface between neighbouring residential.
I look forward to working with the community in ensuring the best and most balanced outcome. In particular, conveying what additional recreational features may be factored into a future detailed design.
The next item adopted was the State initiated land use amendments, designed to encourage and support Agritourism and associated activities linked to original rural uses. These changes support the viability of many of our rural enterprises.
The Heritage Interpretation and Action plan also mentioned the potential for our village precincts to celebrate and promote through interpretation, the district’s close connection to historical fruit production. Reflecting on the origins of the district’s farms could contribute positively to future economic development and tourism strategies.
Lastly, the Chriss Family have placed on exhibition their plans for a new IGA store on their site in Galston Village. I have no doubt that the community will welcome this opportunity to have a new store and other professional suites delivered over time. However, the exhibition process is about getting it right so don’t hesitate to have your say or direct any concerns to me.
As always, happy to be contacted in regard to any issues. [email protected] Ph: 04 9900 4861[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
