Community input helped shape recommended resort conditions
August 27, 2018
At the August Ordinary Council meeting, Colac Otway Shire Council incorporated community feedback before finalising conditions to form Council’s position if the Minister for Planning approves a proposed resort development at Apollo Bay.
Colac Otway Shire Council formed a position to oppose the resort development at Barham River Road, Apollo Bay at a Special Council meeting in August. The development proposal sits with the Minister for Planning for final determination.
Four community submissions suggesting amendments to the draft permit conditions were received. Council officers made a number of recommendations to Council relating to the amendments, and Councillors added further changes before making a final resolution.
The amended conditions approved by Council will be submitted to the Minister’s independent Planning Panel which will form recommendations to the Minister.
Mayor Joe McCracken thanked the community for their input on the permit conditions, saying the significant changes were regarding access to the site and clarification on the delivery of road works and a new pathway.
“Council responded to community concerns regarding potential flooding along Barham River Road by recommending a permit condition for the developer to provide, at their expense, an alternative access route to the property,” he said.
“We also sought to clarify that road works to upgrade the condition of the road be completed prior to site development works commencing. This also applies to the provision of a sealed path along Barham River Road. Both path and road works are to be completed at the expense of the developer.
“It’s important to be clear that Council does not support the current resort development proposal at Barham River Road, and we will be advocating that position at the Planning Panel hearing. Should the Minister grant approval for the development to proceed, the permit conditions will help ensure that the best outcome is achieved in the community’s interest,” Cr McCracken said.
A date for the Planning Panel hearing is to be confirmed, however the hearing will likely take place toward the end of September.
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