The amendment proposes the following changes to the Whittlesea Planning Scheme:
- re-zone part of the properties in the amendment area to a public park and recreation zone
- amend planning scheme map number 13 by applying a public park and recreation zone
- amend schedule to Clause 36.02 public park and recreation zone, to apply a permit exemption for use or development on the subject land in accordance with the Mernda Strategy Plan (amended December 2016)
- amend the column relating to prohibited uses in HO68 (Preston Hall) from 'no' to 'yes'.
The Mernda Regional Recreation Reserve and the Mernda Regional Sports and Aquatic Facility project is a significantly important project for Council and the community. It is noted in the Mernda Strategy Plan (MSP) and Mernda Strategy Plan Development Contributions Plan (MSPDCP) as regionally important social and health infrastructure to support healthy and active lifestyles across the municipality.
To facilitate the delivery of this project, the amendment will ensure the zoning of the land reflects its public ownership and that the intended regional recreation use is consistent with the strategic direction set out in the Mernda Strategy Plan (Amended December 2016). The rezoning will streamline approvals required for the development of the project.
The amendment will provide greater flexibility in respect to the options for the future use of the heritage buildings located within the recreation reserve, by allowing prohibited land uses to be permitted at the heritage place, subject to a planning permit.
Land within the Mernda Strategy Plan is in the process of developing and the current and future community requires the delivery of this significant infrastructure project. This amendment provides Council with the statutory tools necessary to facilitate the timely and coordinated delivery of the project.
This amendment was approved and gazetted in September 2023.