some Councils still can't make pragmatic, logical decisions about housing supply.
A week and a half ago, Macedon Ranges Shire Council resolved to push forward with a proposed Protected Settlement Boundary (PSB) for Gisborne, a township intended to accomodate the majoriy of Macedon's growth for the next 30 years.
Notably, 70% of Residents who responded to Council's own survey did not agree with the draft PSB. 50% wanted more land included. Only 11% were in support.
🏠In that decision, MRSC excluded a 217ha parcel known as Glen Junor from the PSB. Just 2km from the town centre, and included in an earlier draft, this land could foster a new community of 1400 homes, and put 50% of the site in the public realm for recreation and conservation uses.
Council ignored the opportunity, and the wishes of the community, instead assuming most future growth will be catered for in apartment buildings around New Gisborne station at 75/ha, plus fanciful infill redevelopment numbers.
(Going out on a limb, but I suggest most who move into the regions aren't doing so to live in flats. Particularly not when said flat will cost substantially more than a house or townhouse nearby.)
🤔Hard to see this any way other than a cynical attempt for Council to say they are accommodating future growth, but in a way that will never be taken up in reality.
It should not be an either/or decision; include all possible the options for future growth and let the market decide.
Yes, of course I have a vested interest! Glen Junor is a great development proposal and I make no apologies for investing in and advocating for projects we believe will deliver for future residents.
It's time for the Victorian Government and Jacinta Allan to take the actions promised to create supply of housing people want and can afford.
👋🏻Once this opportunity is gone, it's gone.