Councillors refuse development plan for Great Ocean Road subdivision
December 15, 2016
Colac Otway Shire Council has refused a development plan for a 139-lot subdivision on the Great Ocean Road at Apollo Bay.
Council’s refusal was based on concerns about narrow lot widths, setbacks, uncertainty around the material and management of a debris retention fence, and the potential impact the subdivision could have on local character and the heritage values of the Great Ocean Road.
In September this year, the previous Council deferred its decision on the matter to allow for further discussions to take place with the applicant.
Following this decision, the applicant lodged an appeal with VCAT against Council’s failure to make a determination within a reasonable timeframe.
Prior to a formal VCAT hearing, a compulsory conference, which gives parties an opportunity to discuss ways a case might be resolved with the help of a VCAT member, will take place in January.
“Councillors last night refused the development plan in line with the officer recommendation, and agreed that significant alterations would be required to the development plan before it would be likely to gain Council support,” Cr Potter said.
“Parallel to the VCAT appeal, officers have had some positive ‘without prejudice’ discussions with the applicant about ways they might be able to address concerns raised by Council and the community,” he said.
“These discussions will continue with the intention that a revised plan for the site can be considered by VCAT as part of mediation, then subsequently brought before Council sometime in the future for consideration.”
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400