Council continues to develop a full draft of its Growing Places Strategy following extensive community engagement which informed and tested the future growth scenario.
The Growing Places Strategy will set the overall direction for housing and population growth in Golden Plains Shire into the future. The strategy has been informed by independent studies and research over the past two years, strongly guided by the key objectives of the Community Vision 2040.
Following Council endorsement of the Growing Places Strategy ‘Informing Document’ in May 2023, Council Officers commenced a comprehensive promotion and engagement program to enhance broad awareness, community education and facilitate feedback.
From May to July 2023, there were over 800 visits to the Growing Places consultation webpage, and social media and newspaper promotion reached over 30,000 people. More than 80 people attended Community Information Sessions which were held at locations across the Shire, and Council received many emails and phone calls during the consultation period. Up to 25 key organisations have also been briefed on the Growing Places Strategy including agencies, Local Government and State Government departments.
Feedback on the future growth scenario demonstrates a strong understanding of the high-level plan and what would be required to support growth. The differing viewpoints reflect the challenges and opportunities that are presented by the potential for growth beyond the conservative forecast 15-year housing supply.
We have prepared an infographic on the consultation findings which you can view here.
Thank you to everyone who provided feedback, attended an online or in-person information session or got in touch with us about the development of the Growing Places Strategy. Your feedback has been invaluable in shaping our future plan for growth.
The community will have another opportunity to review the full draft of the Growing Places Strategy which is expected to be available mid-2024.