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PAGE 1 AGENDA Ordinary Meeting of Council 6.00pm Wednesday 26 August 2015 *** Broadcast live on Phoenix FM 106.7 *** VENUE: Reception Room, Bendigo Town Hall, Hargreaves Street, Bendigo NEXT MEETING: Wednesday 16 September 2015 Bendigo Town Hall Copies of the City of Greater Bendigo Council’s Agendas & Minutes can be obtained online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

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Wednesday 26 August.

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Page 1: Council agenda

PAGE 1

AGENDA

Ordinary Meeting of Council

6.00pm Wednesday 26 August 2015

*** Broadcast live on Phoenix FM 106.7 ***

VENUE:

Reception Room,

Bendigo Town Hall,

Hargreaves Street, Bendigo

NEXT MEETING:

Wednesday 16 September 2015

Bendigo Town Hall

Copies of the City of Greater Bendigo Council’s Agendas & Minutes

can be obtained online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

Page 2: Council agenda

PAGE 2

Council Vision

Greater Bendigo - Working together to be Australia's most liveable regional city.

Council Values Council wants the community to continue to have reason to be proud of the city and will do this through:

Transparency - Information about Council decisions is readily available and easily understood;

Efficiency and effectiveness - Council provides services based on evidence of need and demonstrates continuous improvement in the delivery of services;

Inclusion and consultation - Council uses a range of engagement strategies to ensure community members can understand and take part in discussion that informs the development of new strategies and actions;

Clear decisive and consistent planning - In a rapidly growing municipality, Council undertakes to plan effectively for our long-term future;

Respect for community priorities and needs - Council will advocate for improved services for community members and will consider community impact and feedback the decisions it makes.

Themes 1. Planning for Growth

2. Presentation and Vibrancy

3. Productivity

4. Sustainability

5. Leadership and Good Governance

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ORDINARY MEETING WEDNESDAY 26 AUGUST 2015

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

ITEM PRECIS PAGE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY 5

PRAYER 5

PRESENT 5

APOLOGIES 5

LEAVE OF ABSENCE 5

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS 5

PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 5

RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS 6

CR LYONS' REPORT 6

DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST 7

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 8

1. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS 9

1.1 Further Response to Petition and Adoption of

Strathfieldsaye Township Traffic Management Plan

9

2. PLANNING FOR GROWTH 20

2.1 Proposed Lot 1, PS716365 - 55 Somerville Street, Flora Hill

3550 - Partial Demolition of Existing Building; Use and

Develop Land for an Education Centre (Training Facility)

and Reduction in Car Parking

20

2.2 Planning Scheme Amendment C201 - New Heritage Places

and Heritage Efficiency Review - Adoption

37

2.3 Private Planning Scheme Amendment Policy Review 51

2.4 Priorities for Planning Scheme Amendments - Progress

Report for 2014/2015 & Plan for 2015 & Beyond

64

2.5 Connecting Greater Bendigo: Integrated Transport & Land

Use Strategy (ITLUS)

71

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2.6 Proposed Sale of 8 Rennie Street, Huntly 94

3. PRESENTATION AND VIBRANCY 102

3.1 Bendigo Easter Festival Community Reference Group 102

3.2 An Official Bendigo Scottish Tartan 104

3.3 Women Showing the Way Forum 2015 107

4. PRODUCTIVITY 110

5. SUSTAINABILITY 111

5.1 Graeme Robertson, National Trust, Cast Iron Collection 111

6. LEADERSHIP AND GOOD GOVERNANCE 117

6.1 Nomination for a Council Nominee for Election to the

Board of Bendigo Stadium Limited

117

6.2 Record of Assemblies 119

6.3 Contracts Awarded Under Delegation 124

7. URGENT BUSINESS 125

8. NOTICES OF MOTION 126

8.1 NOTICE OF MOTION 126

9. COUNCILLORS' REPORTS 128

10. MAYOR'S REPORT 128

11. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT 128

12. CONFIDENTIAL (SECTION 89) REPORTS 128

12.1 Confidential Report in accordance with Section 89(2)(d)

and (e) of the Local Government Act 1989, relating to a

contractual matter and proposed development.

128

____________________________

CRAIG NIEMANN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

PRAYER

PRESENT

APOLOGIES

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

Cr Mark Weragoda

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS

That Standing Orders be suspended to allow the conduct of Public Question Time.

PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

Public Question Time Guidelines Public Question Time – Purpose Council has provided the opportunity for members of the public to ask questions of broad interest to Council and the community. Matters relating to routine Council works should be taken up with Council’s Customer Service Officers through its Customer Request System. By the time planning matters have reached the council agenda, they have been through an extensive process as required by the Planning and Environment Act. In addition, in most instances mediation has been held between the parties involved. Throughout the process there are many opportunities for the people to ask questions. Therefore, no questions relating to planning matters on the Agenda will be accepted. Public Question Time – Where, When And Who The public question time is held at every Ordinary Meeting of Greater Bendigo City Council. Meetings of Council commence at 6.00pm in the Reception Room, Bendigo Town Hall, Hargreaves Street, Bendigo. The public question time is held at the start of the meeting as close as practical to 6:00pm. A maximum of 30 minutes has been provided for registered and unregistered questions. Residents are encouraged to lodge questions in advance so that a more complete response can be provided.

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Questions will be put to the Council by the individual posing the question; the question will be answered by the Mayor or CEO, or where appropriate, Councillors or Council Officers. Acceptance of Questions Each person asking a question of Council is required to stand, state their name, and address the Mayor. Public Question Time is not an opportunity for making of statements or other comments. Council’s Meeting Procedure Local Law does not allow for other questions or comments during the remainder of the meeting. 1. An individual may only ask one question per meeting, a follow-up question may be

permitted at the discretion of the Mayor. 2. In the event that the same or similar question is raised by more than one person, an

answer may be given as a combined response. 3. In the event that time does not permit all questions registered to be answered,

questions will be answered in writing or referred to the next meeting if appropriate. 4. The Mayor and or CEO have the right to decline registration on basis of:

Prosecution, summonses or any other litigation;

Most appropriately addressed by other means;

Vague, irrelevant, insulting or improper, defamatory;

Answer likely to compromise his / her position;

Confidential, commercial-in-confidence. 5. Each individual whose registration form has been accepted or declined will be

advised by the Friday of the week prior to the scheduled meeting. 6. In the event of a registration form being declined the registration form will be

circulated to the Mayor or Councillors for information.

RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS

That Standing Orders be resumed.

CR LYONS' REPORT

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DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Pursuant to Sections 77, 78 and 79 of the Local Government Act 1989 (as amended) direct and indirect conflict of interest must be declared prior to debate on specific items within the agenda; or in writing to the Chief Executive Officer before the meeting. Declaration of indirect interests must also include the classification of the interest (in circumstances where a Councillor has made a Declaration in writing, the classification of the interest must still be declared at the meeting), i.e. (a) direct financial interest (b) indirect interest by close association (c) indirect interest that is an indirect financial interest (d) indirect interest because of conflicting duties (e) indirect interest because of receipt of an applicable gift (f) indirect interest as a consequence of becoming an interested party (g) indirect interest as a result of impact on residential amenity (h) conflicting personal interest A Councillor who has declared a conflict of interest, must leave the meeting and remain outside the room while the matter is being considered, or any vote is taken. Councillors are also encouraged to declare circumstances where there may be a perceived conflict of interest.

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CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Wednesday 5 August 2015. The following items were considered at the Ordinary Council meeting held on Wednesday 5 August 2015 at 6:00pm.

Petition/Joint Letter: Request for Sealed Walking/Bicycle Track at the Rear of Properties in Towers and Wirth Streets, Flora Hill

Fosterville God Mine - Nominations for Community Representatives

Bendigo Early Learning Centre Update July 2015

Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Plan

Reconciliation Action in Bendigo

2015-2018 Partnership Grants

Annual Report - Road Management Plan Version 2.0

La Trobe University: Work Ready Tertiary Students for Bendigo and Region

Response to Revised Draft Victorian Floodplain Management Strategy

Councillor Conduct Panel Decision

Chief Executive Officer Performance Review 2014/15

Progress Report: Independent Review Implementation

Customer Request System Satisfaction Survey 2015

Record of Assemblies

Contracts Awarded Under Delegation

Section 89 Confidential Report: Personnel and contractual matters

Section 89 Confidential Report: Contractual matter and proposed development The unconfirmed minutes have also been posted on the City of Greater Bendigo website pending confirmation at this meeting. RECOMMENDATION That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Wednesday 5 August, 2015 as circulated, be taken as read and confirmed.

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1. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS

1.1 FURTHER RESPONSE TO PETITION AND ADOPTION OF STRATHFIELDSAYE TOWNSHIP TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN

Document Information

Author Brett Martini, Manager Engineering & Public Space Responsible Rachelle Quattrocchi, Acting Director, Presentation and Assets Director

Summary/Purpose

The purpose of this report is to adopt the Strathfieldsaye Township Traffic Management Plan and other measures to address traffic safety concerns raised by the Strathfieldsaye community.

Policy Context

Council Plan Reference:

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2015-2016 Update):

Theme: 1 Leadership and Good Governance

Strategy 1.2 Maintain strong and positive relationships with Federal and State Government and relevant departments and agencies, and advocate to ensure that the required infrastructure, key projects, policies and services are in place as our community grows.

Action 1.2.3 Advocate to other levels of government for funding for required infrastructure, key projects and services to be in place for our growing and liveable municipality.

Theme: 2 Planning for Growth

Strategic Objectives Greater Bendigo plans for the needs of our growing population through the preparation of long-term strategies and the development of 'major new assets' and supporting infrastructure.

Action 2.2.3 Prepare and implement Urban Design Frameworks for the Maiden Gully and Strathfieldsaye commercial centres through the planning scheme.

Action 2.3.2 Increase resources for new footpaths, shared path construction, including connectivity of pedestrian and cycle paths.

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Regional Strategic Plan Reference: Strathfieldsaye Township Plan - Strategy 1.16: Commence negotiations with VicRoads to upgrade the following key intersections:

Strathfieldsaye Road & Club Court – potential roundabout

Strathfieldsaye Road & Uxbridge Street – potential traffic lights

Strathfieldsaye Road & Blucher Street – potential traffic lights

Background Information

Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s): A joint letter was received at the Council meeting on 18 December 2013 from students of the Strathfieldsaye Primary School concerned about the safety of parents and children in Strathfieldsaye because of traffic conditions around the two primary schools - Strathfieldsaye Primary School and St Francis of the Fields. At that meeting, Council resolved:

"that the joint letter be received and noted and that a Council report be prepared following a formal response from VicRoads."

A report was then considered by Council at its meeting of 26 March 2014. In summary, the report highlighted the following matters:

1. Strathfieldsaye Road is an arterial road and is the responsibility of VicRoads.

2. The Minister for Transport has advised that intersection improvements in Strathfieldsaye Road have been considered in the past but, based on the relative priority against other projects across the State, funding was not allocated. The Minister has also indicated that these would continue to be considered for funding in future Victorian Government road programs.

3. Strategic planning for Strathfieldsaye and the associated road network has been undertaken in the development of a number of documents. The Strathfieldsaye Township Plan (2009) and the Bendigo 2020 Transport Study (1993) both support the duplication of Strathfieldsaye Road when traffic volumes dictate. A count undertaken in July 2013 found an average annual daily volume of 7,050 vehicles on this road.

4. The Strathfieldsaye Township Plan identifies potential treatments at five intersections along Strathfieldsaye Road including Club Court / Tannery Lane, Uxbridge Street, Wellesley Street, Blucher Street and Emu Creek Road.

5. The above strategies are considered to be current and relevant for the improvement of the road network and associated infrastructure such as bike and walking paths, and parking in the area. Further strategic work specific to the area is not considered warranted.

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6. Council’s primary role in relation to improvements to arterial roads is to advocate to VicRoads and the State Government on behalf of the Greater Bendigo community.

7. While pressure on Strathfieldsaye Road is growing, other parts of the city’s arterial road network are also suffering from this problem. In particular, considerable concern has been raised in the community about Napier Street through White Hills and the difficulty with entering and crossing it from local roads. Similarly, the growth of Maiden Gully is putting increasing pressure on the Calder Highway and the intersections in that area.

8. Understanding the individual benefits and impacts of the intersection improvements to Strathfieldsaye Road (as identified in the Township Plan) would require a Traffic Impact Assessment that is estimated to cost $30,000. Council could lobby the State to undertake this work given that it relates to work on the arterial road network. Alternatively, Council could fund this work on the basis that it would help it understand (and therefore manage) the local road impacts of any intersection upgrade pursued. The consultant's report would provide Council with technical information to help lobby the State about the preferred order of intersection works in Strathfieldsaye Road.

9. A very important consideration is whether Council deems it appropriate to itself initiate a shift of a State Government cost burden onto ratepayers by funding any works or activities associated with improving traffic conditions on Strathfieldsaye Road.

10. In recent years, the City has constructed shared off-road paths in the vicinity of both primary schools in Strathfieldsaye and a network of proposed cycling and walking paths has already been identified to service the townships of Strathfieldsaye and Junortoun. These projects compete for funding annually against other potential capital works projects identified across the Municipality.

In response to the above summarised report, Council resolved:

"That an estimate be prepared for the next meeting of Council for the preparation of a comprehensive professional plan to address the problems being generated by the rapid growth in vehicular, and importantly pedestrian and cycling, traffic in the township of Strathfieldsaye. It is anticipated that such a plan would include appropriate statistical analysis of existing traffic; evaluate future growth of all traffic; examine all possible options available to meet demands; establish the most appropriate solutions and give attention to likely costs, funding options (for both the plan and works) and prioritisation and timetabling of works. Further it would examine what role various stakeholders could play to minimise costs in the collection and evaluation of relevant data and that the Strathfieldsaye Primary School be provided with minutes of this meeting."

Following this Council resolution, a further report was provided to Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 7 May 2014 to consider the cost estimate prepared as per its resolution on 26 March 2014. At this meeting, it was resolved:

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" That Council, having considered the report on the likely scope, cost and timing to complete a comprehensive plan to address the problems being generated by the rapid growth in vehicular, and importantly pedestrian and cycling traffic in the township of Strathfieldsaye, allocate up to $50,000 from the Developer Contributions Reserve to undertake the plan no later than February 2015 and further, that traffic behaviour be professionally observed at school sites to establish if any interim measures could be implemented immediately to enhance safety for school children."

Following this resolution, a consultant's brief was prepared in line with the outline in the 7 May 2014 report to Council. A number of suitably qualified consultants were invited to submit proposals that reflected the objectives identified in the brief:

The prioritisation of intersection upgrades on Strathfieldsaye Road / Wellington Street;

Develop opportunities for improved traffic flow and management throughout the study area;

Consideration towards the linkage of local and collector roads, and the construction of 'paper roads' to improve the internal circulation of residential traffic movements;

Appropriate statistical analysis of existing traffic;

Evaluate future growth of all traffic;

Examine all possible options available to meet demands;

Establish the most appropriate solutions and give attention to likely costs, funding options and prioritisation of works.

Investigate changes to traffic movements and the impacts on local streets due to intersection upgrades on Strathfieldsaye Road;

Investigate the possibility of a bypass of the Strathfieldsaye township; and

Establish a regime for ongoing monitoring to the level of service through Strathfieldsaye, now and into the future.

A tender evaluation panel, including a representative from VicRoads, assessed the proposals, with Trafficworks Pty Ltd being appointed for the project. Trafficworks' proposal included the following methodology:

Review of existing studies, policies and plans provided by the City of Greater Bendigo (CoGB).

Site inspection of the study area.

Keep the community informed of the study and gain its input via various means.

Liaison with relevant Government authorities including VicRoads and Public Transport Victoria.

Meetings with key stakeholders such as the two primary schools and Strathfieldsaye and District Community Enterprise.

Capture current traffic data.

Review available recent relevant VicRoads and Council traffic count data.

Review casualty crash data for Strathfieldsaye available from VicRoads Crashstats database.

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Estimation of likely future traffic volumes on key roads in central Strathfieldsaye.

Determine appropriate intersection treatment options for Wellington Street intersections with Tannery Lane / Club Court, Uxbridge Street, Blucher Street and Emu Creek Road.

Determine likely performance of existing intersection conditions and possible treatment options for current years and future years 2016, 2021, 2026 and 2031.

Determine suitable timings for intersection improvements to occur.

Prepare strategic level cost estimates for proposed traffic improvements.

Identify with CoGB and VicRoads potential sources of funding for traffic improvements.

Consider at a strategic level option/s for an east–west aligned alternative route for traffic to avoid travel through central Strathfieldsaye.

Figure 1: Central Strathfieldsaye study area shown in red

Following review of existing documentation, Trafficworks undertook extensive data collection based on existing movements of traffic, pedestrians and cyclists. To supplement this data, community consultation was undertaken by Trafficworks' sub-consultant, CommunityVibe. This included targeted consultation with the Strathfieldsaye and District Community Enterprise (SDCE) and local primary schools, along with broader consultation via online and paper surveys.

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Utilising the existing traffic data and the projected growth of development in Strathfieldsaye based on planning strategies and the current zoning, traffic growth was predicted at specific timeframes through to 2031. This information was used to assess the performance of key intersections at these specified timeframes and determine the required timing of any major upgrades.

Report

The draft Strathfieldsaye Township Traffic Management Plan (STTMP) report included detailed information on the traffic investigation and community consultation conducted. Focusing on intersections along Wellington Street, the report outlined recommendations for timing and treatments for major intersection improvements. The intersection of Wellington Street and Tannery Lane was acknowledged as the highest priority treatment with significant works required almost immediately. This need has been recognised by the Victorian Government and a commitment of funding for this intersection has been announced with planning currently underway. The development of the intersection of Blucher Street is identified as the next highest priority with requirement for upgrade anticipated by about 2021. Also considered was Uxbridge Street, in both the current 'T' intersection and with the inclusion of the southern leg as a cross intersection. The upgrade of this intersection is anticipated to be required by 2026. The report considered and evaluated the upgrade of intersections through the installation of either roundabouts or traffic signals. The use of roundabouts produced a better traffic performance when compared to traffic signals. Roundabouts also have a superior safety record for motor vehicles, largely due to the lower vehicle speeds and the reduced severity of impact compared to cross intersections. However, roundabouts do not cater well for pedestrian movements and are often difficult for cyclists to navigate, particularly on roads with traffic volumes similar to Strathfieldsaye Road and Wellington Street. Nonetheless, data collection undertaken by the consultants did not identify particularly high volumes of pedestrian movements during the research period. This can be attributed to two factors. Residential development within walking distance of the primary schools and the commercial centre is relatively low for a centre the size of Strathfieldsaye. The other constraint is the limited facilities for pedestrians to cross Wellington Street. Currently the school crossing provides safe access during school periods however there are no other facilities to assist in the crossing of Wellington Street. Development of land to the south of Wellington Street is progressing, with full development of this area expected in the short term. Being in such close proximity to the schools and commercial centre, this development will generate greater desire for pedestrians to cross Wellington Street. Based on this anticipated growth in pedestrian movement across Wellington Street and ultimate growth in traffic volume along Wellington Street, traffic signals were recommended by the consultants in preference to roundabouts. The report also recommended that pedestrian operated signals be installed in the longer term between Uxbridge and Blucher Streets to facilitate safe pedestrian movement across Wellington Street.

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Submissions to the draft Report:

The draft report was distributed to key stakeholders being the primary schools, SDCE and VicRoads. Information was also prepared for the public with submissions on the draft report invited until 22 May 2015. Submissions were received from Strathfieldsaye Primary School, SDCE and VicRoads. To discuss these submissions, a meeting was held with the SDCE and several meetings were held with VicRoads. The submission from VicRoads and subsequent meetings with CoGB officers largely centred on the type of intersection treatments recommended. As outlined above, the installation of roundabouts provides improved traffic performance and safety benefits but can adversely impact pedestrian movements. Where the consultant's report has recommended installation of traffic signals to accommodate pedestrian movement, VicRoads has suggested a roundabout in conjunction with pedestrian operated signals (POS) as an alternative treatment. Given that the estimated cost of either a roundabout or traffic signals at the Wellington Street and Tannery Lane intersection is in excess of the current funding committed by the State Government, there is a risk that the installation of a roundabout at this location could happen without the installation of POS. In order to accommodate the current and future pedestrian demand, it is considered that POS on at least the Wellington Street legs of the roundabout construction should be included as part of the project. VicRoads also recommended that a combination of treatments, signals and roundabouts be modelled for the length of Wellington Street to determine if this would produce a better outcome. This modelling could produce many different combinations of treatments based on a roundabout with and without POS / traffic signals at each of the three main intersections. This request was considered to be beyond the scope of the STTMP and it is not proposed that CoGB undertake this work. If VicRoads consider this work important to their management of Wellington Street, or as part of their concept design for the Tannery Lane intersection then VicRoads should commission this work. As outlined, the movement and safety of pedestrians and cyclists were key issues for the community and Council, and as such, traffic signals were recommended by the consultant. If VicRoads undertake further modelling of all the intersections in Wellington Street this may produce a satisfactory combination of traffic lights and roundabouts. However if VicRoads consider roundabouts appropriate at some intersections then provision is required to be made for the safe movement for pedestrians and cyclists as part of the roundabout works. Provision for these users should not be subject to additional funding or works at a later time. The submission from the Strathfieldsaye Primary School was supportive of much of the report but expressed community concern about the ultimate number of intersection treatments and in particular, the recommendation of three traffic signalised intersections and POS between Tannery Lane and Blucher Street (inclusive of these two intersections). Whilst it is recognised that the Trafficworks recommendation would result in four sets of signals within approximately 700m, the ultimate treatments may be subject to more detailed modelling outlined above and the timing to complete these works on each of the intersections is subject to the actual growth of traffic and future funding. It is noted that signalisation of all key intersections is the recommended long term treatment,

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however the coordination of signals would enable optimal performance of the signals for all users. The STTMP includes traffic modelling based on the best available current information and projections to 2036. The report recommends the ongoing monitoring of traffic at least every five years and that the rate of development is also monitored. This will enable the appropriate timing for funding applications and required works. Other impacts, both positive and negative, such as changes to the amenity of particular roads through redirection of traffic and vegetation impacts were not included in this high level evaluation. The report also noted the high level investigation of an alternative route around the commercial centre to the north and south of Wellington Street. These routes were assessed on the cost of construction versus the savings to vehicle operating costs and based on this assessment, neither route could be justified. Pedestrians and cyclists:

The STTMP focussed on the investigation of traffic management and safety improvements along Wellington Street including the movement of pedestrians across Wellington Street. The submission to the draft report from the SDCE also raised improvements to pedestrian movements around the Strathfieldsaye Primary School. The SDCE has worked with CoGB and joint funded a number of shared paths through Strathfieldsaye over many years. The survey of pedestrians and cyclists showed that the path along the Sheepwash Creek is well utilised, particularly by cyclists. The path along Emu Creek also provides good off-road access to the St Francis of the Fields Primary School (St Francis). CoGB is discussing the current management arrangements for the paths along Emu Creek which are on land that is either owned or managed by St Francis. These paths, traditionally only used by school students, have been extended to Sullivans Road in recent years and now serve the broader community. Further extension of this path network from Sullivans Road to Blucher Street remains a key item of discussion. The bridge across Emu Creek constructed by Villawood will also enable students to walk or cycle to the primary schools from this development as well as serving the broader community. Currently a joint funded proposal to construct a shared path between Junortoun and Strathfieldsaye is nearing approval from Parks Victoria. This will provide a valuable link particularly for primary school age students from McIvor Forest Estate to both Strathfieldsaye primary schools. Likewise, Strathfieldsaye students attending the Catholic College Bendigo Junortoun campus will also benefit from this path. The construction of footpaths in Uxbridge and Apsley Streets was raised as part of the SDCE submission. Upgrade of the existing gravel path in Apsley Street to concrete or asphalt was the highest priority for SDCE. Given that this existing path is in very good condition, an upgrade is not the highest priority when compared with other projects and although it will be considered during the 2016/17 Council Budget process, it is unlikely to be funded at that time.

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Other footpath projects in the area that are being considered as part of the development of 2016/17 budget include a shared path along Strathfieldsaye Road between Ryalls Lane and Club Court. This would address the long standing community concerns regarding the lack of pedestrian or cyclist facilities along Strathfieldsaye Road particularly at the Sheepwash Creek road bridge. A footpath along Ryalls Lane between Guys Hill Road and Strathfieldsaye Road is another key link for a large part of the Strathfieldsaye community. These projects are currently high priorities based on the evaluation criteria. A number of locations for pedestrian crossings were raised in the SDCE submission to the draft report. Pedestrian crossings need formal VicRoads approval and must meet VicRoads warrants in relation to pedestrian and vehicle numbers before installation is approved. Based on counts that have been undertaken, a pedestrian crossing in Blucher Street at the Post Office meets these warrants and CoGB is developing a draft design for VicRoads approval. Subject to final costing, these works are proposed to be undertaken this financial year. Although a pedestrian crossing of Uxbridge Street near Wellington Street was requested, the warrants for a crossing in this location are not met due to the limited pedestrian and vehicle movements outside of school drop off and pick up times. A school crossing in the vicinity of the school entry was also considered, however again, this project did not meet warrants for installation at this time. A number of students currently cross Uxbridge Street at Apsley Street. This area is supervised by a teacher from Strathfieldsaye Primary School and operates safely under this configuration. Active Travel: Taking into consideration strategies outlined in the draft Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy (ITLUS), it is noted that encouragement of walking and cycling to school would see traffic congestion around Strathfieldsaye improved at school drop-off and pick-up times. As part of the implementation of ITLUS, each school will be provided with a toolkit which will assist them to encourage sustainable travel and offer incentive programs for students that ride or walk to school. With this assistance provided to Strathfieldsaye schools combined with continued investment in path infrastructure, students and parents can be effectively supported in choosing more active transport options. Encouraging more students to walk or ride all or a part of the way to school is a key principle of ITLUS and represents the most effective way to reduce traffic congestion around schools during drop-off and pick-up times.

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Consultation/Communication

The development of the STTMP has been undertaken in consultation with the Strathfieldsaye community. Questionnaires, discussions and on-site meetings have informed the development of the draft STTMP. In particular, the two primary schools and the SDCE have been major drivers for this work, with the three groups making important contributions. Submissions to the draft document have been addressed through revisions to the STTMP and minor project implementation as part of the City's capital works program.

Resource Implications

One of the key drivers for the development of the STTMP was the requirement to upgrade the intersection of Wellington Street and Tannery Lane. The Victorian Government has committed funding for this work and VicRoads has commenced survey work at the site with a view to significant funding for works being made available in 2016/17. Various smaller scale projects, particularly around pedestrian and cyclist movements, have also been identified. The installation of a pedestrian crossing in Blucher Street will be considered for funding from the 2015/16 traffic program or mid-year budget review depending on the final project estimates. As noted above, a number of path projects will be considered for funding as part of the development of the 2016/17 budget, due to commence in the next few months.

Conclusion

Strathfieldsaye remains a key residential growth area and the petition received by Council raised a number of traffic safety concerns that have been building in Strathfieldsaye in line with the development of the area and subsequent traffic growth. Along with the further development of land occurring on the edge of Strathfieldsaye, infill development will also continue, particularly on the south side of Wellington Street. This development combined with further commercial development on the north side of Wellington Street will increase the desire for pedestrian movement, across Wellington Street in particular. Continued residential development will see the demand for places at the two primary schools in Strathfieldsaye continue. The encouragement of active transport to school is the best way to tackle traffic congestion challenges at primary schools. Significant investment has been made in conjunction with SDCE in the development of shared paths in the vicinity of both schools. Planning for a shared path between Strathfieldsaye and Junortoun is well advanced and further works particularly along creek lines are proposed. The management of shared paths on Crown and freehold land that traditionally only serviced St Francis but is now servicing the broader community, is also in discussion. Furthermore, projects to construct additional paths to principally service the schools and link major residential areas are high on the priority list of footpaths for Council consideration in coming budgets.

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The STTMP recommended the installation of traffic signals at the three major intersections in Wellington Street within the study period. This has been recognised by the Victorian Government with funding committed for the intersection of Tannery Lane and Wellington Street. The installation of pedestrian operated signals between Blucher and Uxbridge Street was also recommended. The STTMP is a high level document and although the use of signals was recommended to accommodate the pedestrian movement, alternative treatments that meet these criteria may be identified through more detailed traffic modelling and design work. CoGB will continue to work with VicRoads in the development of individual intersection treatments and the overall planning for Strathfieldsaye Road and Wellington Street.

Attachments

1. Strathfieldsaye Township Traffic Management Plan

RECOMMENDATION

That Council, in response to the petition from the Strathfieldsaye community and the development of the Strathfieldsaye Township Traffic Management Plan: 1. Adopt the Strathfieldsaye Township Traffic Management Plan including support for

intersection treatments on Wellington Street at Tannery Lane, Uxbridge Street and Blucher St;

2. Continue to work with VicRoads on the development of designs for these intersections ensuring that adopted treatment provides for the safe movement of pedestrians and cyclists across Wellington Street;

3. Undertake monitoring in conjunction with VicRoads, on the residential and commercial development of Strathfieldsaye and the timing of the required intersection treatments and other improvements to facilitate all modes of transport;

4. Develop plans for the installation of a pedestrian crossing in Blucher Street between Wellington Street and Apsley Lane for consideration as part of the 2015/16 various traffic program or, pending cost estimates, for consideration during the mid-year budget review;

5. As part of the 2016/17 Council Budget process, consider the construction of paths in Strathfieldsaye including:

a. Strathfieldsaye Road (north side) between Ryalls Lane and Club Court

b. Ryalls Lane (west side) - Guys Hill Road to Strathfieldsaye Road

c. Apsley Street (north side) Uxbridge Street to Blucher Street

d. Uxbridge Street (east side) - Wellington Street to Apsley Street;

6. Continue discussion with St Francis in regard to management of paths on land that they own or manage to recognise the community use of these paths and planning for a long term linkage to Blucher Street.

7. Assist Strathfieldsaye Primary School and St Francis in establishing programs for the encouragement of active travel as part of the implementation of ITLUS; and

8. Notify the submitters of the joint letter of Council's resolution.

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2. PLANNING FOR GROWTH

2.1 PROPOSED LOT 1, PS716365 - 55 SOMERVILLE STREET, FLORA HILL 3550 - PARTIAL DEMOLITION OF EXISTING BUILDING; USE AND DEVELOP LAND FOR AN EDUCATION CENTRE (TRAINING FACILITY) AND REDUCTION IN CAR PARKING

Document Information

Author Peter O'Brien, Senior Planner Responsible Prue Mansfield, Director Planning and Development Director

Summary/Purpose

Application details: Partial demolition of existing building; use and develop land for an education centre (training facility); and reduction in car parking

Application No: DP/863/2014

Applicant: Loddon Mallee Housing Services Ltd t/a Haven Home Safe

Land: Proposed Lot 1, PS716365 - 55 Somerville Street, FLORA HILL 3550

Zoning: General Residential Zone and adjoins a Road Zone 2

Overlays: Neighbourhood Character Overlay 1

No. of objections: 7

Consultation meeting:

3 March 2015

Key considerations: Is there policy support for an education centre on this site?

Is the design of the extension to the dwelling acceptable?

Are amenity impacts associated with the use acceptable and manageable by conditions?

Traffic and parking impacts; and

Objector concerns.

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Conclusion: The use of the land for the education centre is limited to residents of the dwellings on the land (residents of the Sidney Myer Community only) and amenity impacts are acceptable and can be managed by conditions. The built form; whilst flat roofed and contemporary, is an appropriate response to the Victorian dwelling on the site and traffic parking impacts are acceptable subject to conditions drafted to require compliance with the planning scheme.

Policy Context

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013 – 2017 (2015-2016 Update)

Planning for Growth

Housing options provide broader choice in order to meet current and future community expectations and needs.

Productivity

Council fosters business and industry growth.

Sustainability

The built and natural qualities that make Greater Bendigo an attractive and appealing place are valued and conserved.

Background Information

This and two other permit applications on adjoining land were received at the same time (late November 2014). One of the applications (unconnected to the Sidney Myer Haven project) for 1-3 Keck Street was approved by Council at its 27 May 2015 Ordinary Meeting. An application at 57 Somerville Street (adjoining the site of this application) for four dwellings on that lot was withdrawn from the application process at the request of the permit applicant in early June. Officers had significant concerns with the 57 Somerville Street application, which the applicant was trying to address through a redesign. However, the applicant elected to withdraw the application (and will re-apply at a later date). This is the reason for the delay as it was intended for both to occur at the same time (following receipt of a suitable redesign) given both relate to the Sidney Myer Haven development.

Report

Subject Site and Surrounds

The application site is lot 1 of Plan of Subdivision PS716365 R. The lot which is the application site was formed part of permit DSD/368/2006 which is the subdivision and dwelling permit that the applicant is currently completing on the adjoining land. The site contains an existing Victorian dwelling; which has historically been used for non-residential uses including a hair dressing salon (approved in 1985) and medical centre/counselling service (approved in 2005).

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The lot is 415 square metres in size and has frontage of 16.13 metres to Somerville Street. The site adjoins a vacant site to the south (57 Somerville Street) and the common property access to the balance of the site being developed for dwellings to the north. Clause 22.14 – Flora Hill Residential Character Policy in the Planning Scheme describes the precinct the site is within as

“The area is distinctive because it contains some of the few consistent inter-war period residential streetscapes in Bendigo. There is also a consistency in the plan forms of houses, the large, wide-spanned and gabled roof forms, and in the position of each house on its block. Spaces between the houses provide glimpses of back yard gardens and trees. The large, heavy roof forms dominate the street scene, lending a strong horizontal emphasis that is reinforced by the strong horizontals and shadowing of the verandahs. Front gardens, which are neatly tended, low in scale and mostly exotic, form part of the street scene because of the low or transparent front fences. Street tree avenues of medium to large exotics form another important component of the area's character”.

This description is not entirely appropriate for the application site given the site contains a Victorian dwelling though it is accurate with regard to identifying the dominant land use in the area – the dominant use in the area is that of dwellings.

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Figure 1: Location map showing subject site. Objector dwellings marked with a star. Note: not all objectors are shown on the map owing to the location of their dwelling in relation to the subject site. Proposal

The applicant submission with regard to the proposed use of the land as an education centre is:

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The proposal is to re-develop the former dwelling on the site as a training facility that will be associated with the adjoining Sidney Myer residential development. Key functions of the new building will include office space, meeting rooms, kitchen, a large training room and a one bedroom apartment on the upper floor. The facility will provide living skills development programs to residents of the Sidney Myer development, such as: learning to cook, classes in home care and management, financial literacy, parenting classes, self-help learning, computer skills and pre-learning literacy and numeracy classes Typical classes will be between 6- 12 people and will include only those living on site within the Sidney Myer community. It will not be open to the public or non-residents. The only outside services that will use the site will be invited speakers or services providing education or living skills classes or assessments to residents. The partners that will assist in offering the programs will include institutions such as TAFE, YWCA, BCHC and CAE, which hold appropriate accreditations in their respective courses. The training facility, including the office, will operate during business hours (8:30 – 5pm, Monday to Friday); however the overnight staff will be on duty from 5pm-10pm. There will generally be two staff members on site. A staff member will be on site during the night, 24 hours per day, and seven days per week.

The architect for the development aspect of the application provided an appropriate summary of the development as:

Proposed demolition of the existing add-ons at the rear of the house at 55 Somerville Street. Internal refurbishment of the existing house to create secure staff facilities and associated amenities. The construction of a two storey addition connecting into the rear of the house; training and kitchen facilities provided at ground level, lounge and staff sleepover space on the first level. Communal outdoor spaces provided to the North of the extension as well as to the West of the existing house.

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Figure 2: Site layout showing landscaping.

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Figure 3: Streetscape perspective.

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Figure 4: Elevation plans.

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Planning Controls - Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme

The reasons why a permit is required are:

Use and develop land for an education centre cl 32.08-1 and 32.08-10 (General Residential Zone)

Partial demolition and building and works cl 43.05-2 (Neighbourhood Character Overlay)

Reduction in car parking & car parking to the satisfaction of the responsible authority cl 52.06 (Car Parking)

The following clauses are relevant in the consideration of this proposal: State Planning Policy Framework

Integrated decision making (cl 10.04)

Loddon Mallee South Regional Growth Plan (cl 11.12)

Urban environment (cl 15.01)

Sustainable development (cl 15.02)

Movement networks (cl 18.02)

Education facilities (cl 19.02-2)

Development infrastructure (cl 19.03) Municipal Strategic Statement

Municipal profile (cl 21.01)

Key issues and influence (cl 21.02)

Settlement (cl 21.02-1)

Reference documents (cl 21.10) Local Planning Policies

Flora Hill Residential Character Precinct 2 (cl 22.14) Other Provisions

General Residential Zone (cl 32.08)

Neighbourhood Character Overlay Schedule 1 (cl. 43.05)

Car parking (cl 52.06)

Bicycle parking (cl 52.34)

Decision guidelines (cl 65)

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Consultation/Communication

Referrals The following internal departments have been consulted on the proposal:

Referral Comment

Traffic & Design No objection subject to conditions

Drainage No objection subject to conditions

Public Notification The application was advertised by way of notice on the site and letters to adjoining and nearby owners and occupiers. As a result of advertising, 7 objections were received, with the grounds of objection being:

Amenity impacts from the buildings (overlooking – 53 Somerville Street)

Lack of need for the facility as other facilities offer like services.

Proposed built form out of context with the neighbourhood.

Inadequate parking on site. The objections and planning merit of the applicant are discussed below. A consultation meeting in the form of a ‘drop in session’ was conducted at the application site in March. This session was attended by the majority of the objectors and all of the Eppalock Ward Councillors. The delay in reporting the application was the result of the intention to report both this and the now withdrawn application to Council at the same time given both permit were related to the Sidney Myer Haven Community.

Planning Assessment

Is their policy support for an education centre on this site? The application site has a history of non-residential use, including being used as a hairdressing salon and a counselling practice. This application proposes to continue the non-residential use of the building.

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State Policy at clause 19.02-2 (Education facilities) has a purpose to “assist the integration of education facilities with local and regional communities” this links to purposes of the General Residential Zone which include allowing ‘educational, recreational, religious, community and a limited range of other non-residential uses to serve local community needs in appropriate locations’. In this case, the education centre will serve (and be limited) to the Sidney Myer Haven Community and it can be seen that policy support for education centres within the community (in this case on the same site as a community) exists. Is the design of the extension to the dwelling acceptable?

Council’s consideration of the extension to the dwelling is guided by the Neighbourhood Character Overlay and how the proposal responds to Council’s adopted Residential Character Policy which is found in the planning scheme. The permit applicant’s architect submits that the extension to the dwelling is acceptable as:

“A double storey addition at the rear provides the required spaces for the new support facility, but is a restrained addition. The simple box form doesn’t aim to take attention from the existing house, and the separation provided by the single level transition link avoids a jarring connection to the existing house and provides the house with the respect on the site it deserves”.

The desired future character for the area is to be achieved by the following objectives and design responses which are assessed in turn:

Objectives Suggested Design Response

To retain buildings that contributes to the valued character of the area.

Retain and restore wherever possible, intact Inter-war era dwellings.

Assessment: The Victorian era dwelling is being substantially retained which meets this objective.

To maintain and strengthen the garden settings of the dwelling.

Prepare a landscape plan to accompany all applications for new dwellings.

Retain large, established trees and provide for the planting of new trees wherever possible.

Assessment: A landscape plan is not a policy requirement for extension to dwellings. Despite this, the applicant has submitted a concept landscaping plan with a total of 134 plants proposed.

The landscape plan noted that a turning area for cars in the front setback of the building is proposed which is designed so that the tandem car spaces can enter, and in particular, exit the site in the forward direction.

A proposed modification to the landscape scheme is that the access/parking area be softened by the use of an earthy exposed aggregate surface treatment as opposed to natural finish concrete which is currently proposed.

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Objectives Suggested Design Response

With the recommended condition regarding surface material the policy objective is met.

To maintain the consistency, where present, of building front setbacks.

The front setback should be not less than the average setback of the adjoining two dwellings.

Assessment: Not applicable as the extension is to the rear of the dwelling.

To maintain the rhythm of dwelling spacing.

Buildings should be setback from both side boundaries.

Assessment: The existing building and proposed extension is set off the southern boundary (with the vacant 57 Somerville Street) and the carport is built to the boundary with the common property accessing the balance of the site. Whilst the carport is built to its boundary, the intent of the objective is met as the 8 metre wide access sits between the application site and the other adjoining dwelling at 53 Somerville Street.

To minimise the dominance of the car storage facilities and loss of garden space.

Locate garages and carports behind the line of the dwelling.

Assessment: A carport and two tandem spaces are proposed. The carport is set behind the line of the front wall of the dwelling. Some potential garden space is lost as some of the front setback area of the dwelling is to be used in order to allow for vehicles to turn to exit in a forward direction.

The objective has been assessed as being met as the carport is appropriately located, and the landscaping scheme proposed (including exposed aggregate surface treatment as recommended by conditions) will see the site appropriately treated.

To respect the identified heritage qualities of the streetscape or adjoining buildings.

Where the streetscape contains identified heritage buildings, reflect the dominant building forms in the street, including roof forms, in the new building design.

Assessment: The immediate surrounds of Somerville Street do not contain identified heritage buildings (as designated by the Heritage Overlay). The closest overlay related to a hedge, not a building on both 2 Keck Street and 65 Somerville Street. This hedge was removed after it became diseased in 2002 having first obtained planning approval. The anomaly that the control remains on a hedge long gone has been flagged with the City’s Policy and Process Team to be corrected in a future ‘tidy up’ planning scheme amendment.

With the exception of the aforementioned heritage site, there are no other heritage sites or buildings proximate to the site.

To ensure that buildings and Respect the predominant building height in

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Objectives Suggested Design Response

extensions do not dominate the streetscape.

the street and nearby properties. Where there is a predominance of single storey, the height of the dwelling at the front of the dwelling should match the typical single storey wall height.

Assessment: The existing dwelling sits quite ‘high’ in the street and the single storey appearance of the dwelling is maintained at the front. The two storey extension at the rear of the dwelling thus meets the objective.

To use lighter looking building materials and finishes that complements the dominant pattern within the streetscape.

In streets dominated by weatherboard dwellings, use timber or other non-masonry cladding materials where possible, and render, bag or paint brick surfaces.

Assessment: The existing dwelling is weatherboard – the proposed colours /material palette includes lightweight (non-masonry) cladding painted in light colours. This approach is meets the objective.

To ensure front fences are appropriate to the era of the dwellings and maintain the openness of the streetscape.

Provide open style front fencing.

Front fences should not exceed 1.2 metres other than in exceptional cases.

Assessment: No front fences are proposed.

In conclusion the approach taken to the extension is considered to be appropriate with regard to Policy and the Neighbourhood Character Overlay and means that the existing Victorian dwelling on the site is retained and appropriately added to. Are amenity impacts associated with the use acceptable and manageable by conditions? The permit applicant’s submission with regard to the use of the land is:

The facility will provide support for people aged generally between 18 and 35 years. The residents will be known and self-managing tenants of the Haven support program (i.e. paying rent and no history of disturbance), who have the motivation and will to make changes in their lives however need mentoring and support. The purpose of the training facility is to provide a range of learning opportunities to improve residents’ access to education, training and employment, enable them to become involved in their community and broaden their networks socially and for their wellbeing. The program will provide parenting skills, childhood development and planning for their future, along with gaining the necessary financial & livings skills to sustain independence.

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Whilst residents may currently be 'getting by', this program is designed to assist people to 'get ahead'. The program is not for those with a mental illness, drug takers or on rehabilitation, those in crisis or living in chaotic unstable situations in community. Attendees would already be model tenants of the supported programs.

In essence it is clear that what is proposed is a somewhat ‘limited’ use of the land. The application is clear in that the education training centre is to be used only for residents of the Sidney Myer Community only and this is a matter that can (and is recommended) to be formalized by a permit condition. It is agreed that if the facility were available more broadly (i.e. beyond residents of the Sidney Myer Community) that the impacts would be different and it may not be appropriate to allow; particularly participants in a broader use would almost certainly be wholly reliant on street parking to access the centre. If such a change were proposed either a new or amended permit (with community consultation) would be required. An important fact with this application is that the development also caters for accommodation for a permanent (24 hour a day) onsite staffed presence. Such a presence should reassure the community that if some sort of issue arose on site, there is a dedicated staff member who would be available to deal with the issue in the first instance. The application submission is also clear that the limited use of the facility would mean that it is used only in day light hours on Monday to Friday only; unless prior written consent of the City is first sought and granted. A condition limiting the hours of operation is recommended. Traffic and parking impacts Most submitters to the application raised traffic and parking as grounds of objection. The planning scheme notes that for an education centre, parking is required to be provided at a rate of 0.4 spaces. Nineteen dwellings have been permitted under permit AM//368/2006/A which equates to the planning scheme requiring seven spaces to be provided on the land. Three spaces are shown on the application plan. Participants/attendees of the education centre/training facility will also be residents of the Sidney Myer Community hence separate provision of parking for attendees should not be required. Parking must therefore be considered for educators/facilitator and any permanent on site staff. The applicant submission notes that a maximum of three staff would be on site at any given time (two staff, one educator). The application plans show one covered and two tandem spaces off the existing crossover to Somerville Street. A turning area in the front setback of the building is proposed in order to meet Transport Engineer requirements regarding forward entry and exit to and from the site. The third space simply does not ‘work’ as there is no room for the vehicle to easily enter the turnaround area in the front setback; hence it is recommended that this space be deleted from the plans.

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The applicant supported the parking reduction aspect of the application with a parking survey to ascertain the number of spaces and their availability at different times of the day. The spaces on the west and east side of Somerville Street (between Hammer Street and Keck Street) were counted. The count identified that 20 spaces exist in this part of the street. Counts at various times over a number of days found that at any one time a maximum of seven spaces were in use. Officers are satisfied that any shortfall of parking associated with this development and use can be absorbed by the on street availability. Other issues raised by the objections Officers agree there is merit to the objection from 53 Somerville Street with regard to their concern about overlooking and a recommended condition is that the deck in question be screened so as to avoid any view into that property. This requirement has been discussed with the permit applicant and they are agreeable to providing for this. The other issue raised (beyond the objections related to the merit of the proposal as assessed earlier in this report) was the issue of ‘need’ for this facility having regard to the presence of education centres/training facilities in Bendigo which could in theory provide the services proposed by this facility. With regard to the question of ‘need’ a number of Tribunal cases have dealt with this issue. Cases have held that in some circumstances ‘need’ and ‘community benefit’ can in fact offset some amenity impacts of a proposal. This proposal is not a finely balanced proposition where the above principle ought to be invoked to form a view it is acceptable.

Conclusion

Officers are satisfied that there is a ‘need’ for the facility and the rationale for having the facility on the site where participants reside in their dwellings is sound. While there are other providers of like services, it has been assessed that a limited use of the site for the manner applied is acceptable subject to the condition recommended. The built form represents an acceptable planning outcome and subject to modification, parking and traffic impacts are also acceptable.

Options

Council, acting as the responsible authority for administering the Planning Scheme, may resolve to: grant a permit, grant a permit with conditions, or refuse to grant a permit.

Attachments

Objections

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RECOMMENDATION

Pursuant to section 61 of the Planning and Environment Act (1987), Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to issue a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit for the partial demolition of existing building; use and develop land for an education centre (training facility); and reduction in car parking at Proposed Lot 1, PS716365 - 55 Somerville Street, Flora Hill subject to the following conditions: 1. MODIFIED PLAN REQUIRED

Before the use and development starts, amended plans to the satisfaction of the responsible authority must be submitted to and approved by the responsible authority. When approved, the plans will be endorsed and will then form part of the permit. The plans must be drawn to scale with dimensions and two copies must be provided. The plans must be generally in accordance with the plans submitted with the application but modified to show: (a) Deletion of the third tandem car space; (b) Screening of the first floor deck avoid any view into any part of 53 Somerville

Street; and (c) Landscape plan amended in accordance with condition 3.

2. NO ALTERATION TO LAYOUT The development and use permitted by this permit as shown on the endorsed plans and/or described in the endorsed documents must not be altered or modified (for any reason) except with the prior written consent of the responsible authority.

3. LANDSCAPE PLAN REQUIRED Before the development starts, a landscape plan to the satisfaction of the responsible authority must be submitted to and approved by the responsible authority. When approved, the plan will be endorsed and will then form part of the permit. The plan must be drawn to scale with dimensions and two copies must be provided. The plan must show: (a) Details of surface finishes of pathways and driveways (driveway and

turnaround area amended to be an exposed aggregate finish in earthy tones instead of natural finish concrete.

(b) Planting schedule of all proposed trees, shrubs and ground covers, including botanical names, common names, pot sizes, sizes at maturity, and quantities of each plant.

4. EDUCATION CENTRE/ TRAINING FACILITY PARTICIPANTS

Participation in the programs offered by the education centre/training facility is limited to residents of the Sidney Myer community. The centre is not permitted to be available to participants from the general public or non-residents.

5. HOURS OF OPERATION Except with the prior written consent of the responsible authority, the use permitted by this permit must operate only between the following times:

Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 6:00pm

6. LOADING AND UNLOADING The loading and unloading of vehicles and the delivery of goods must at all

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times be undertaken within the boundaries of the subject land.

7. GENERAL AMENITY The use permitted by this permit must not, in the opinion of the responsible authority, adversely affect the amenity of the locality.

8. BAFFLED LIGHTING Outdoor lighting, where provided, must be designed, baffled and located to the satisfaction of the responsible authority such that no direct light is emitted outside the boundaries of the subject land.

9. CONSTRUCTION PHASE All activities associated with the construction of the development permitted by this permit must be carried out to the satisfaction of the responsible authority and all care must be taken to minimise the effect of such activities on the amenity of the locality.

10. EXPIRY OF THE PERMIT This permit will expire if: (a) The development is not commenced within 2 years; and (b) The development completed and use commenced within 4 years The responsible authority may extend the time for the commencement or completion of the development and the commencement of the use, if a request is made in writing before the permit expires or thereafter, within the period allowed by section 69 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

Note – Noise Emissions

Noise emissions must comply with State Environment Protection Policy (Control of Noise from Commerce, Industry and Trade) No. N-1.

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2.2 PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C201 - NEW HERITAGE PLACES AND HERITAGE EFFICIENCY REVIEW - ADOPTION

Document Information

Author Morgan James, Planner Amendments Responsible Prue Mansfield, Director Planning & Development Director

Summary/Purpose

Amendment details: The amendment implements a number of completed

heritage projects and makes changes to improve heritage policy and controls in the Planning Scheme. Specifically the amendment:

Implements the Greater Bendigo Thematic Environmental History, 2013

Implements the White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study, 2014 by applying the Heritage Overlay to 23 places.

Amends the Local Heritage Policy

Introduces the Greater Bendigo Heritage Design Guidelines, 2015

Introduces a new consolidated Incorporated Plan for planning permit exemptions in the Heritage Overlay.

The Independent Planning Panel supported the majority of the amendment with only one significant change recommended regarding the former East Bendigo School site.

Proponent: City of Greater Bendigo - Planning Services

No. of submissions: 9 (4 support, 5 object)

Key issues: Making heritage planning policy clearer;

Protecting identified heritage places;

Reducing the need for planning permits;

Considering Panel recommendations.

Recommendation: Council adopt Amendment 201 to the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme, with minor changes as recommended by the Panel, and request Approval from the Minister for Planning. Inform VCAT at the upcoming hearing for permit

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DS/319/2014 - subdivision and removal of native vegetation at the former East Bendigo Primary School, that Council no longer supports the granting of a permit in light of the new information received from the Panel.

Policy Context

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013 – 2017 (2015-2016 Update)

Planning for Growth

Council manages the planning and development of the City through the preparation of major Strategies and effective amendments to the planning scheme

Continue to review and improve planning systems and procedures

Productivity

Council fosters business and industry growth.

Sustainability

The built and natural qualities that make Greater Bendigo an attractive and appealing place are valued and conserved.

The history, unique heritage, streetscapes and buildings of Greater Bendigo are conserved, restored, celebrated and managed wisely for the long term.

Background Information

The key steps in the Amendment process are summarised below:

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The Amendment was initiated by the City primarily to introduce into the Scheme a

number of recently completed heritage studies including the Greater Bendigo Thematic

Environmental History, (2013) and the White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study,

2014.

It is also necessary to continually improve and keep planning policy up to date. The

amendment implements a number of initiatives to strengthen heritage policy and

guidance in the Scheme whilst being consistent with relevant state and local policy.

Previous Council Decisions 31 July 2013 – Council resolved to adopt the Greater Bendigo Thematic Environmental History, 2013, to prepare an amendment to introduce the document into the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme. 20 August 2014 – Council resolved to adopt the White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study – Part 1, 2014, the draft Heritage Design Guidelines and the Incorporated Plan – Permit Exemptions, and to request the Minister for Planning to authorise preparation of Amendment C201 to the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme. Council also resolved to seek an exemption to notify all individual owners and occupiers of the amendment due to the large numbers affected, except for those proposed to be affected by a new Heritage Overlay, and to exhibit the amendment.

We are at this point

Send to Minister for Approval and Gazettal

Council decides to Adopt or Abandon the Amendment

Council requests an Independent Panel to consider submissions

Submissions received

Public Exhibition of Amendment

Council decides whether to seek Ministerial Authorisation

Amendment prepared

Panel Hearing held

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4 March 2015 - Council resolved to accept the late submissions, adopt the recommendations detailed for each of the submissions, and to request the Minister for Planning to appoint an Independent Panel to consider all outstanding submissions.

Report

Land affected by the Amendment The amendment applies to all of the land within the City of Greater Bendigo by making changes to the Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) and the Heritage Policy at Clause 22.06. It also affects all land within the Heritage Overlay by implementing the Permit Exemptions Incorporated Plan. The amendment also affects 23 individual places in the White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study- Stage 2 Phase 1, 2014 which are proposed to be covered by the Heritage Overlay. What the Amendment does The Amendment incorporates a number of changes to improve and strengthen cultural heritage policy and controls in the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme and can be broadly grouped into the following key actions:

Implement the Greater Bendigo Thematic Environmental History (TEH), 2013 by:

o Amending Clauses 21.01, 21.02 and 21.08 of the MSS to include new heritage

statements and objectives and to identify further strategic work to be undertaken.

o Amending Clause 21.10 and 22.06 (Heritage Policy) to include the TEH as a

reference document.

Implement the White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study, 2014 by:

o Applying the Heritage Overlay to a total of 23 places; including 18 individual

properties and 5 large sites.

o Introducing Incorporated Plans for planning permit exemptions in the Heritage

Overlay for 4 large sites.

o Including the Study as a Reference Document in Clause 21.10 and 22.06

(Heritage Policy).

Introduce the Greater Bendigo Heritage Design Guidelines, 2015 as an incorporated document in Clause 22.06 and the Schedule to Clause 81.01 (Incorporated documents).

Amend the Local Heritage Policy at Clause 22.06

Introduce a new Incorporated Plan for all planning permit exemptions in the Heritage Overlay at Clause 43.01 and the Schedule to Clause 81.01 by combining the existing Incorporated Plans for the Ironbark and Strathfieldsaye McIvor Heritage Study areas and including new exemptions for the large sites in the White Hills Heritage Study and general Heritage Overlay areas in Bendigo.

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Consultation/Communication

Exhibition Procedures The Amendment was exhibited between 23 October 2014 and 22 December 2014. Submissions 9 submissions were received during the exhibition period (including 4 late submissions) as per the attached table. Submissions included:

6 unresolved submissions which were referred to the Panel (including 1 since withdrawn).

3 supporting submissions of which 2 were not referred to the Panel. Unresolved submissions generally related to these particular properties from the White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study:

Former Bendigo East School, 93 Strickland Road, East Bendigo

Arnold Street Uniting Church, 213 Arnold Street, North Bendigo

3 Stewart Street, North Bendigo

Former Bendigo Freezing Works (Mayfair Park Estate), 10 McDowalls Road, East Bendigo

St Paul’s Coptic Church (former St John’s Church of England), 24 Smith Street, North Bendigo

Submissions largely related to the following issues:

Why and how is a place is included in the Heritage Overlay;

The condition of a heritage place;

Setting and context of a heritage place;

Impacts of a Heritage Overlay on potential sale and/or development.

The Panel Hearing The Minister for Planning appointed an Independent Panel to consider all written and oral submissions and material presented to it in connection with the Amendment. The Panel Report and Recommendations The Panel Report supported council’s position in the majority and found that:

The methodology of the Heritage Study is robust and accepts the findings of the Study.

The Heritage Guidelines and Incorporated Plan for Permit Exemptions are tools that will assist the community and Council in managing and making decisions that protect and enhance heritage places within Greater Bendigo

Commended Council for this innovative approach to heritage management within the municipality.

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However the Panel did not support Council’s position in relation to the former East Bendigo Primary School finding that:

The exhibited Heritage Overlay curtilage does not reflect the significance of the site,

The ‘Anzac Avenue’ should be included within the Heritage Overlay; and

Its curtilage include frontage to Strickland Road and Murphy Street. Given the above, the Panel Report (received 15 July) was released early under Delegation on 16 July 2015 to all submitters and the public to allow for its consideration at the preliminary VCAT hearing for the Subdivision Permit of the former East Bendigo Primary School, which was held on 17 July 2015. All submitters will be notified of Council’s decision resulting from this report. Key issues Former East Bendigo Primary School, 93 Strickland Road, East Bendigo As noted above, the Panel did not support Council’s position in relation to the former East Bendigo Primary School, instead finding that:

There is little doubt that as an avenue of honour the 5 trees that remain adjacent to the footpath from Strickland Road is a diminished form of what was originally there. However, it is clear that the main entrance to the school was always from Strickland Road

It is clear that the plantings that have become known as the ‘Anzac Avenue’ were undertaken from the time that the school was built and opened. Whilst this occurred during the middle of the war it was always the intention of the school committee to commemorate the contribution of local servicemen. It is also clear that the plantings extended beyond the pathway from Strickland Road. This is supported by the fact that in December 1920 the school was able to affix plaques to 23 trees. The remnants of these plantings remain in the area of the school grounds leading down to the corner of Strickland Road and Murphy Streets.

Regardless of the fact that the number of original trees are diminished and some of them are in poor condition, it seems to the Panel that the significance of these plantings to this site have been down played and the ‘Anzac Avenue’ in its diminished form should be acknowledged as part of the Heritage Overlay. While some of the trees may be identified as dangerous, the place can be managed through replacing and managing the trees as necessary.

The Panel was also concerned about the restricted views that the current proposed curtilage would provide the school. Having regard to the angled siting of the building, whilst Strickland Road is a busy road, the view of the school building from the intersection of Strickland Road and Murphy Street is an important aspect of the site as is the view to the north along the pathway from Strickland Road.

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The Panel concluded that:

The Avenue of Honour contributes to the social and historical significance of the former East Bendigo Primary School and warrants inclusion within the Heritage Overlay. It also finds that the proposed curtilage does not adequately cater for the significant elements of the site and that is should extended.

Image: Exhibited extent of the proposed Heritage Overlay

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Image: Approximate extent of the Heritage Overlay as recommended by the Panel. Officers have considered the thorough research provided by the submitter at the Panel hearing as well as the analysis of the Independent Panel and have concluded that the overlay should be extended as recommended by the Panel because:

The main entrance and primary views to the school have always been from Strickland Road, with the Murphy Street entrance available for vehicles, service entry and other purposes. This primary entrance point and view lines should therefore be appropriately acknowledged within the overlay to address the contribution they give to the setting and understanding of the heritage building.

The exhibited overlay only provides restricted oblique views of the school building from the street and does not sufficiently acknowledge the main view of the building or its important decorative façade.

The significance of the plantings on the site was informed by the lack of official Anzac Avenue status as well as the condition of the trees. Primary evidence was provided by the submitter that the trees were planted by the school soon after the school was built to commemorate the contribution of local servicemen. Regardless of the fact that the number of original trees is diminished and some are in poor condition, they are considered to be of historic and social significance. The trees should therefore be included within the overlay as the Panel has determined they contribute to the heritage significance of the site and can be managed, removed and/or replaced as part of a future planning permit process.

The subdivision and development of the site can still occur with modifications.

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The findings of the Panel and the above recommendation have implications regarding Council’s decision for the subdivision permit of the land (DS/319/2014 – The subdivision of land into 7 lots and the removal of native vegetation). The subdivision application, which ran concurrently with the planning scheme amendment process, proposed to subdivide the site into seven industrial lots ranging in size between 1,075m2 and 2,477m2. The existing brick school building will be retained on one of the lots (Lot 4) and all existing vegetation on the site will be removed. The Planning Officer for the subdivision application concluded that the “subdivision design responds appropriately to the site and its context. The site has been ear-marked for future light industrial development in the East Bendigo Local Structure Plan. The subdivision will facilitate this outcome. The existing heritage building on the site will be retained and incorporated into the subdivision design. The loss of vegetation on the site isn’t at odds with the site’s industrial setting. The four objections to the permit application don’t justify rejecting or altering the proposal. Overall, the subdivision complies with the Planning Scheme and it is recommended that a permit be granted.” The permit proposes to remove some native vegetation, some of which is now considered to be of heritage significance, as well as subdividing the areas (including the avenue, school and corner trees) determined to be significant. This is now considered to be an inappropriate outcome given the findings of the Panel.

Image: Merged aerial photo showing both the subdivision plan and exhibited extent of the Heritage Overlay.

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The permit was considered and supported by Council at the 12 November 2014 meeting, with a Notice of Decision issued by the City on 13 November 2014. The permit has since been appealed at VCAT by the same objector to the planning scheme amendment and is to be heard at a VCAT hearing on 9 October 2015. Council is unable to rescind the above decision to grant a permit unless a review of the decision is sought by Council at VCAT; however that is considered unnecessary in this instance. Council can instead resolve to inform VCAT at the upcoming hearing in October that in light of recent additional information received from the Panel, which changes the values to be considered in the permit application, that Council cannot now support the grant of a permit as it is considered contrary to the new information. Since the Panel’s recommendations, Council Officers have met with the permit applicant who has put forward an opposite view to that of the Panel. Stating that the Panel’s recommendations for the site are contrary to the evidence provided by both their expert witness and Council’s and should not be supported. Additionally they have provided evidence from the Bendigo RSL stating that “the RSL recognises the Avenue has basically gone for all intents and purposes and would support some form of permanent recognition that it did exist on the site.” They have also provided expert evidence on the poor condition and limited lifespan of the trees in the avenue and the dangerous risk some of them pose of limb dropping. Officers advised the applicant that we accept the independent findings of the Panel and urged the applicant to consider some comprises to their subdivision layout in order to seek a more balanced outcome. This could include retention of some of the significant trees via a permit condition, as well as the view line of the building from Strickland Road by a building envelope on the plan of subdivision. The applicant advised this is something they would consider. The applicant has since provided a letter (attached) outlining their views on the panel recommendations for the site and the reasons why they believe they should not be supported. However after considering the independent findings and recommendations of the Panel and the information provided by the applicant it is recommended that Council adopt the findings of the Panel and direct that VCAT be informed at the upcoming hearing that Council no longer supports the granting of permit DS/319/2014 – The subdivision of land into 7 lots and the removal of native vegetation. Instead the development of the site should be reviewed in light of the new information and Council would welcome a revised application. The following table lists the Panel's recommendations and provides a brief comment on how the recommendation be applied.

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Rec. No.

Panel Recommendation Officer Recommendation

1.

Amend the White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study, 2014 to:

a) Replace discussion of Incorporated Plans to “Recommended Permit Exemptions” on page 14.

b) Rename the Incorporated Plans

throughout the Heritage Study to “Recommended Permit Exemptions”.

Accept the Panel’s recommendation to amend the Heritage Study.

2. Amend the Greater Bendigo Heritage Incorporated Plan – Permit Exemptions to include the list of individual places identified within the White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study, 2014

Accept the Panel’s recommendation to amend the Permit Exemptions Incorporated Plan.

3. For the Former East Bendigo Primary School, 93 Strickland Road, East Bendigo: (a) Amend the ‘Heritage Place’ column in

the Schedule of the Heritage Overlay to include a description “The Heritage Place is defined as: the school building; the path; the avenue of honour; land within 10 metres of the building on the north and west side; and land within the Murphy Street frontage of 70 metres from the corner of Murphy Street and Strickland Road and land within the Strickland Road frontage of 20 metres from the corner of Murphy Street and Strickland Road.”

(b) Amend the ‘Tree Controls’ column to

include “Yes – Eucalypts”. (c) Amend the Heritage Overlay map to

incorporate the pedestrian pathway from Strickland Avenue, surviving adjacent trees and the planted area to the south east of the site as far as Strickland Road consistent with recommendation 4(a).

(d) Amend the citation within the ‘White

Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study’

Accept the Panel’s recommendation to amend the Schedule, Map, citation within the Heritage Study and the Permit Exemptions Incorporated Plan.

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Rec. No.

Panel Recommendation Officer Recommendation

to recognise the “Anzac Avenue” as part of the significant elements of the site and the Statement of Significance adjusted accordingly.

(e) Amend the ‘Greater Bendigo Heritage

Incorporated Plan – Permit Exemptions’ to recognise the “Anzac Avenue” as part of the significant elements of the site.

4.

For the Former Bendigo Freezing Works (Mayfair Park Industrial Estate), 10 McDowalls Road, East Bendigo: (a) Amend the citation within the ‘White

Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study’ to:

‐ Remove reference to the livestock pens.

‐ Include the date of the additions to the killing building as late 1960s.

‐ Include the various names of the staff amenities building as 'staff amenities' and 'inspector’s amenities' building.

‐ Note the removal of the upper section of the chimney stack.

‐ Replace the term 'cottage' with ‘Caretaker’s 'residence'.

(b) Amend the ‘Greater Bendigo Heritage

Incorporated Plan – Permit Exemptions’ to:

‐ Remove reference to the livestock pens.

‐ Include the date of the additions to the killing building as late 1960s.

‐ Include the various names of the staff amenities building as 'staff amenities' and 'inspector’s amenities' building.

‐ Include the removal and replacement of hazardous materials and timber members to the skin as exempt actions.

The Panel found that the Former Freezing Works (Mayfair Park Industrial Estate) warrants a Heritage Overlay and that the suite of heritage controls has been prepared by Council to achieve practical changes to the place while at the same time retaining the historical significance of the site. Accept the Panel’s recommendation to amend the citation within the Heritage Study and the Permit Exemptions Incorporated Plan.

5. For the Residence, 3 Stewart Street, North Bendigo:

The Panel recommended allowing potential uses

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Rec. No.

Panel Recommendation Officer Recommendation

(a) Amend Schedule to the Heritage

Overlay to apply ‘yes’ to the Prohibited Uses column.

generally prohibited within the General Residential Zone for 3 Stewart Street, which is at present being used as commercial premises. Accept the Panel’s recommendation to amend the Schedule.

6. For the Arnold Street Uniting Church (former Wesleyan Church), 213 Arnold Street, North Bendigo: (a) Amend the ‘Heritage Place’ column in

the Schedule of the Heritage Overlay to include a description “The Heritage Place is defined as: the church; the hall; and all the land within the frontage and within 4 metres from the side and rear of the buildings”.

The Panel found that the Schedule to the Heritage Overlay should be refined to better describe the curtilage for the Arnold Street Uniting Church. Accept the Panel’s recommendation to amend the Schedule.

7. Amend the Heritage Design Guidelines and Permit Exemptions Incorporated Document to include Council’s identified post exhibition changes that make clerical corrections and help clarify their readability.

Accept the Panel’s recommendation.

Conclusion

It is recommended that Council adopt the Amendment as recommended and forward the adopted Amendment to the Minister for Planning to approve. This will complete the Amendment process and the new Heritage Overlays and efficiency initiatives will be implemented. It is also recommended that Council advise VCAT for the upcoming hearing that Council no longer supports the application for the subdivision and removal of native vegetation at the former East Bendigo Primary School in light of the recommendation from the Panel.

Options

Council has the option of

Adopting the Amendment in accordance with the above Officer Recommendations and sending to the Minister for Planning for Approval; or

Adopting the Amendment in accordance with the Panel’s recommendations and sending to the Minister for Planning for Approval; or

Adopting the Amendment in part.

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Resource Implications

The amendment will increase the number of properties included within the Heritage Overlay and this would ordinarily result in an increase in the number of planning permit applications. However, the amendment also proposes to introduce the Permit Exemptions Incorporated Plan, which provides for a number of planning permit exemptions for minor works in the Heritage Overlay. This is expected to reduce the number of planning permit applications under the Overlay across the City to balance out the increase in Heritage Overlay coverage. Major heritage works applications may increase but minor works permits will decrease. Officer time will be required to prepare the Amendment documentation for approval and to liaise with the Minister for Planning.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to: 1. Adopt Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme Amendment C201 with changes

recommended in this report. 2. Inform VCAT at the upcoming hearing for permit DS/319/2014 - subdivision and

removal of native vegetation at the former East Bendigo Primary School, that Council no longer supports the granting of a permit in light of the new information received from the Panel.

3. Forward the adopted Amendment to the Minister for Planning for Approval, together with the prescribed information pursuant to Section 31(1) of the Planning and Environment Act, 1987.

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2.3 PRIVATE PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT POLICY REVIEW

Document Information

Author Emma Bryant – Amendments, Heritage and Compliance Coordinator

Responsible Prue Mansfield, Director Planning and Development Director

Summary/Purpose

The Private Planning Scheme Amendment Policy (2011) has been reviewed as part of a continuous improvement process, to ensure it remains current and appropriate for users. The Policy has been successful in its aim of providing a consistent framework for undertaking private amendments and only minor changes are recommended. This report also provides information, as previously requested by Council, on the costs and benefits of undertaking privately sponsored amendments, to both Council and proponents.

Policy Context

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013 – 2017 (2015-2016 Update)

Planning for Growth

Council manages the planning and development of the City through the preparation of major strategies and effective amendments to the planning scheme.

Housing options provide broader choice in order to meet current and future community expectations and needs.

Productivity

Council fosters business and industry growth.

Sustainability

The built and natural qualities that make Greater Bendigo an attractive and appealing place are valued and conserved.

Background Information

A planning scheme amendment seeks to change planning controls that apply to a specific site or sites, and/or a clause or policy of the Planning Scheme. It is a change to legislation and must be undertaken in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987, and to standards developed by the State. The Act allows for an amendment to be initiated by a council, a ‘Council amendment’ or a council can respond to a request for an amendment by any person or body, a ‘private amendment’.

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A ‘Bendigo Council amendment’ is one prepared by the City of Greater Bendigo on behalf of the Council and community at its own cost, usually because it benefits the community as a whole, or a large part of the community, rather than an individual. Examples include an amendment to implement the Residential Strategy, introduce Heritage Overlays, or for the correction of errors. A ‘private amendment’ is one initiated by an applicant or land owner where the main beneficiary of the amendment is that applicant or owner. Most private amendments will also have an overall community benefit, as if otherwise they should not be undertaken, however this is not the primary purpose of the proposal. Examples include rezoning private land for a residential estate or to allow for the sale of government or church owned land. The Council is under no obligation to undertake a private amendment request and can abandon one at any time during the process if major problems arise that cannot be addressed, or if the City and proponent do not agree on matters. The current Policy was created to assist those people requesting private amendments, by making transparent the roles of each party in the process; preparing documentation and background reports, paying statutory fees and external costs incurred by the City, and expected timeframes. It is our understanding that the Policy was the first of its kind in the State and has since been used by some other Councils as a basis to develop their own policies. Previous Council Decisions 9 February 2011 Adopted the Private Planning Scheme Amendment Policy.

Report

Nineteen private planning scheme amendments have been undertaken under the terms of the Policy since its introduction in February 2011, with proponents meeting all the terms. To inform the Policy review, the planning consultants who undertook the amendments on behalf of private proponents were surveyed about the Policy. The survey found that most (>70%) of consultants found the Policy useful in understanding the City’s overall expectations for undertaking planning scheme amendments, the different roles and responsibilities of participants and likely future costs. More than half (57%) found the Policy useful for understanding amendment steps and timeframes, with the remainder being neutral, probably due to them already understanding these matters.

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The most controversial aspect of the Policy is recouping external costs (beyond statutory fees), with most planning consultants strongly objecting to the idea when it was proposed under the first policy. More than half of the survey respondents now support the concept of cost recovery, but nearly 30% still strongly oppose it. The biggest concern raised about cost recovery is the City seeking payment for third party reviews of submitted technical reports. This item is included in the Policy for situations where the amendment is controversial and there is a technical aspect to it for which the City does not have the expertise to comprehensively review a report, and where there are no referral authorities able or willing to assist; eg odour modelling, noise assessments. These situations are very rare, and this is clearly explained in the Policy. In fact the item has not yet been used. It is recommended that the option be kept in the Policy but the wording strengthened to require the proponent’s agreement to use a third party. Survey respondents were also asked if there were any other external costs that should be included in the Policy, with one suggestion of costs of holding an external information session during public exhibition, eg venue hire. These are usually only held for large amendments and the proponent is usually happy to pay for these costs anyway as they want to hold a session to engage the community. The revised Policy includes this cost where the proponent agrees to hold a session. Survey respondents were also asked for other suggested improvements to the Policy. Responses included providing a consistent case manager and a commitment to undertaking private amendments without unnecessary delays. Ideally one planner will take a project from start to finish but this cannot be achieved in all cases due to competing priorities, staff leaving, etc. Privately sponsored amendments in this City and across the State are mostly treated similarly to permit applications where they are dealt with as they come in. However, the City also gives them a priority rating of low, medium or high based on community benefit and urgency with some high rating amendments fast tracked, eg Bendigo Hospital and Fortuna. Legislative and other changes In October 2012 the Minister introduced set timeframes for each step in the planning scheme amendment process in Ministerial Direction No. 15. These timeframes are similar to those included in our original Policy and are publicly available, so it is recommended that the revised Policy refers to them but does not repeat them. The revised Policy now includes a statement that a proponent must provide any requested information in a timely manner so that Ministerial Direction timelines can be met, unless there is an agreement with the City that more time is needed. Exemptions can be requested for the timeframes and are often necessary for large, complex amendments and where objections are received. The statutory planning department also recommends that the Policy be amended to remove the detail about processes and level of documentation to be submitted for amendments and that these be put instead into a set of Guidelines for applicants. Proposed changes to Policy

Statement that information be provided in a timely manner so that Ministerial timeframes can be met, rather than including a full list of timeframes;

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Costs of Council holding a public information session to be included in external costs to be recouped;

The City will seek agreement from the proponent before appointing an independent technical reviewer;

The City will represent itself at a panel hearing unless the proponent wishes to pay for legal representation;

Include a statement explaining that scheduling of any private proposals will be considered against Council’s published list of workload priorities;

Removal of some background information about processes and level of documentation to be submitted and formatting changes.

Benefits and costs for private amendments Last year Council requested information on the benefits and costs of undertaking private amendments. In terms of costs to the City in undertaking a private amendment, the City recoups external costs under the Policy, such as Panel fees and advertising costs, and receives statutory fees for staff time; approximately $2,100 per amendment. Proponents have paid all required statutory fees and external costs under the Policy, equating to approximately $64,000 for eight amendments in the last financial year, ranging from $1,400 for a simple amendment to $38,000 for a large complex one. An estimate has been made of the time taken by staff to manage and process private amendments to determine an approximate cost to the City (refer to table below):

Amendment type

Example Full time days

Approximate staff salary costs, not including oncosts

Statutory fees paid

Simple Girton Grammar rezoning one site to Special Use

14 $4,360 $1,322

Average without Panel

CVGT site rezone to Industrial 3

30 $9,350 $2,120

Average with Panel

McIvor Forest rezone to residential and planning permit

40 $12,460 $2,120

Complex Forest Park Estate, Farm Zone to Residential

90 $28,000 $2,120

Table 1: Estimated staff resources to undertake a private planning scheme amendment It is acknowledged that statutory fees paid do not cover all staff costs for an amendment, particularly for larger, more complex amendments. The State Government is responsible for setting statutory fees and they haven’t been reviewed for planning scheme amendments for many years, beyond CPI increases. However, it is considered that although the City is contributing resources to private amendments through staff costs, Council should contribute some resources to reviewing and updating the planning scheme as part of its statutory planning function.

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To gain a better understanding of the overall costs and benefits of private amendments to proponents and to the Council and community in general, survey respondents were asked how much money private proponents spent in broad terms to undertake an amendment. A third of the amendments (5) were considered simple and cost the proponent less than $50,000, a quarter (4) were complex and cost more than $200,000 and the remainder (6) were in between. These costs included statutory fees, planning scheme amendment document preparation, supporting technical reports, community consultation and panel hearings. Respondents were then asked whether they believed that this investment was beneficial to their client, and to the broader community. Approximately 60% of amendments were considered as beneficial or very beneficial for their client and community, while 35% were not. The amendments considered not beneficial were mostly the large more complex ones that cost the proponent more than $200,000, but no specific reasons were given as to why they were not beneficial. As discussed previously, private amendments usually benefit the private proponent but most also bring benefits, some substantial, to the broader community by increasing the liveability and economy of the municipality, and by responding to the market. The table below lists the amendments undertaken under the Policy since its introduction in 2011. This list shows that most private amendments benefit the broader community by providing for new schools and school expansions, new residential areas, new supermarkets and other businesses, and business and industrial land expansion. Each amendment has a different level of community benefit with some providing a large community benefit, eg new Catholic school in Maiden Gully, and others less so, eg minor expansion of APCO service station. However, all the amendments have an overall positive community benefit, in fact an amendment should not be undertaken if there is not an overall benefit. As the amendment has resulted in positive community benefits and the proponent has borne a significant proportion of the costs, it should be that overall the City and community has benefited, with the level of benefit depending on each project.

No. Amendment Description

130 Heathcote supermarket: rezoning to Commercial and remove overlays and combined permit to expand supermarket and carpark.

131 Compost facility: rezone to special use (withdrawn following exhibition)

145 New Catholic School Maiden Gully: rezoning land to Special Use Education

150 Coates Hire expansion: rezoning to Business

151 Bendigo Hospital campus: modification Heritage Overlay to facilitate development

154 Girton Grammar expansion: rezone to Special Use

160 McIvor Forest Estate: Rezone to residential and combined permit

164 CVGT: rezone to Industrial from Education

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No. Amendment Description

173 Holdsworth Road: rezone to Residential

180 APCO expansion: rezone to business

183 Girton Grammar: rezone to Special Use

190 Edwards Road Maiden Gully (Forest Park): rezone to residential

191 Wellsford Estate: change planning controls to allow broader industrial uses.

192 Evergreen Waters retail hub: rezoning to commercial

193 Calder Highway, Maiden Gully: rezone to residential and combined permit (adopted and submitted for approval)

195 Ham and Allingham Streets: rezone to industrial to reflect use and allow for business expansion.

197 View Hill church: rezone to Commercial and design overlay to enable disposal and reuse.

204 Fortuna: rezone to Comprehensive Development Zone to allow disposal and reuse.

200 Big Hill Enterprise Park, rezone to industrial.

Table 2: Private amendments undertaken since 2011

In June 2014, Council approved a priority list of planning scheme amendments to be undertaken over the next 3 years, in response to the Independent Review. This list has been made publicly available via the website. These amendments were prioritised using a standard set of criteria and it was determined that any new amendments proposals be evaluated against the priority list using the same evaluation framework. A model was also put forward for discussion where if a private amendment was deemed as a low priority against this list, that the applicant meet the cost not only of technical evidence and an independent Panel, but the cost of Council resources, eg staff time too. This list has recently had its annual review and been updated with many Council projects identified for completion. Survey respondents were asked about this new priority list. 57% agreed that the public list was useful but the same percentage did not agree that new private proposals should be assessed against this list for prioritising. Only 29% supported the proposed model of paying extra money to resource a low priority amendment. Specific comments on this option included:

Amendments should be considered like permits and be assessed on their merits.

Any prioritising needs to be consistent and fair with all amendments including Council ones.

Amendments can save Council money.

Prioritising and requesting extra money could cause ill feeling and be inequitable.

Paying more would lead to higher expectations from proponents of a fast and favourable outcome.

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Council should have some flexibility to accept private amendment requests at any time to respond to community issues as they arise. However these proposals should be evaluated against the current City project list using the same criteria to determine when and if they should be undertaken, due to limited resources. Council is under no obligation to undertake a private amendment. If this situation arises, a formal report will be presented to Council on how to maintain effort on Council priorities, while meeting the needs for progress on private amendments. It is true that paying extra money towards staff time over and above the statutory fee, is likely to lead to high expectations of a fast and favourable result, which cannot be guaranteed. This could lead to pressure to undertake a lower priority amendment faster than a higher priority one. Also the State Government has previously told the City that requesting extra payments to cover staff costs above statutory fees is not appropriate. Regulation 6 of the Planning and Environment (Fees) Regulations 2000 sets out the prescribed statutory fees that a proponent must pay Council in respect of planning scheme amendments. Legal advice previously received is that Council cannot charge extra fees but can ask for reasonable extra expenses to be paid. If these aren’t paid, Council can refuse to proceed a request. In lieu of paying extra money with a lower priority amendment, proponents could be asked to undertake more staff tasks, eg drafting a Council report, but there are some tasks that cannot be delegated.

Consultation/Communication

Before the Policy was originally introduced, extensive consultation occurred with planning consultants who undertake private amendments for developers/landowners. In reviewing the Policy, all planning consultants who have undertaken an amendment in the City since the Policy’s introduction were surveyed about the Policy’s effectiveness.

Conclusion

The Private Planning Scheme Amendment Policy has worked well since its introduction, as evidenced by the number of amendments completed, the payment of costs and the user survey results. The revised Policy has been developed with external consultation with the main changes recommended to reduce its length and simplify it by preparing accompanying Guidelines. Planning scheme amendments are undertaken by Councils to keep a planning scheme up to date and to facilitate changing land use needs. Privately initiated amendments play an important part in this evolution in that they provide for changes supported and required by the market, and they are making improvements to the scheme at a lower cost to ratepayers.

Options

Council has the option of adopting or not adopting the revised Policy.

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Resource Implications

The Policy has a positive impact on City resources as it requires private beneficiaries of planning scheme amendments to pay for reasonable additional expenses.

Attachments

Private Planning Scheme Amendment Policy (as amended)

RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to: 1. Accept the changes recommended to the Policy. 2. Adopt the Private Planning Scheme Amendment Policy 2015.

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2.4 PRIORITIES FOR PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENTS - PROGRESS REPORT FOR 2014/2015 & PLAN FOR 2015 & BEYOND

Document Information

Author Prue Mansfield, Director Planning & Development Responsible Prue Mansfield, Director Planning & Development Director

Summary/Purpose

The Independent Review 2013 - Recommendation 54 is to:

"Formulate a clear and transparent set of priorities for planning scheme amendments for the coming financial year for approval by Council and communicate these and the associated processes to the community." The first priorities report was presented to Council at the Ordinary Meeting of 18 June, 2014. This report details what has been achieved in the last 12 months and confirms the priorities, strategic work and subsequent Planning Scheme Amendments for the years ahead, as adopted by Council in June last year. It recommends a work programme for future years based on that, plus issues and needs that have emerged in the last 12 months.

Policy Context

Council Plan 2013-2017 (2015-2016 Update): Leadership & Good Governance:

1.1 Good governance principles are used to guide strategic decision-making. 1.6 Programs, projects and services are guided by best practice principles and

delivered to respond to community needs. Planning for Growth:

2.2 Council manages the planning and development of the City through the preparation of major Strategies and effective amendments to the planning scheme.

Background Information

The Planning Scheme is the legal framework that sets out the parameters for all decisions that need to be made about land use and development in the municipality. Planning Scheme Amendments are the process to change that law. The ultimate approval for every change is the Minister for Planning. Because they change the law of the City, amendments must:

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Implement a clearly articulated strategy, that is based on proven technical data and evidence.

Be legally and technically correct, in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act.

Everyone who may be impacted by the changes has the opportunity to have their views considered.

Have a formal, independent process (Panel) where there are different points of view, between any of the parties involved; the City, community members, agencies.

It is this need for detailed evidence, legal procedures and the time taken to resolve differences on the way through the process that makes the process lengthy. The process is set by the State Government and cannot be changed. Timelines and workplans for amendments can only ever be "best estimates" for reasons such as:

Applicants change of mind about what is wanted part way through the process. We have several in this category at the moment.

The State Government imposes a requirement that must be enacted.

It takes much longer than expected to finalise the technical analysis. The Flood Study, Marong Business Park and Intensive Animal Industries are examples.

The number of submissions and issues raised by agencies or community members has a significant impact on timelines and workloads.

Council changes its priorities of the work required.

Budget allocation by Council to complete the work. Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme amendments are undertaken by two units of the Planning and Development Directorate - Statutory Planning and Strategy. In general, Statutory Planning prepares amendments that:

Implement site specific amendments prepared by other Business Units (the Marong Business Park and airport amendments for the Economic Development Unit) or those proposed by private landowners.

Improve the efficiency of the Planning Scheme such as applying new guidelines or policies that guide decision-making (eg the Bushfire Management Overlay, Flood Study), waive the requirement for a permit subject to certain performance criteria or fix anomalies.

More recently, the responsibility for managing the technical and administrative process of most amendments has been transferred to the Statutory Planning team. The Strategy Unit will retain planning scheme amendments that implement major strategies and policies that it has prepared and which have been approved by Council. For example, Strategy is managing the amendments arising from the review of the Residential Development Strategy. Resources are shared / redirected in response to demand and changing priorities.

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In response to Recommendation 54, each year the Directorate reviews all current, proposed / planned amendments and prioritises and schedules over a three year period (see attached). This goes beyond the recommendation which proposed a priority list covering the financial year. The need for a three year plan is the long project timeline for amendments. While simple ones can be completed over one year, large and complex ones can take up to three years, including the strategy development and planning scheme amendment process. In developing the priorities in a clear and transparent manner, the Directorate developed an evaluation framework which considered each proposal against a set of criteria. Those criteria are:

The degree to which the amendment delivers the strategic direction and priorities within the Council Plan;

The importance of the amendment to success in Council's planning for growth, productivity and liveability;

The degree of urgency, (eg amendments required by State Government legislation);

Whether it is required because it implements State Government policy.

Completing work already commenced, especially completing the planning scheme amendment where the strategy has been completed;

The level of resources required;

The "logical" roll out of consequential work, where relevant.

Report

It is 12 months since Council adopted the first strategic work program. It is therefore timely to review the program and plan the work schedule further into the future. As advised when the previous work plan was adopted, it was very ambitious. I am very proud of the hard work of the Strategy and Statutory Planning teams in driving this work forward. Council too has worked hard in considering some complex issues and determining a policy position. Completed In the last 12 months, the following PSAs have been completed:

Bendigo Airport

Signage Policy

Thematic Environmental History

Corrections to the Planning Scheme

White Hills Heritage Study Part A

Heritage Design Guidelines

Heathcote Supermarket

Big Hill Industrial

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Substantial progress has been made on other work but the PSA has not progressed as rapidly as we would have hoped. The reasons are varied, from the need to complete complex technical requirements before the project could proceed (Marong Business Park, Development Contribution Plans, Bendigo Flood Study, Eaglehawk Structure Plan), taking longer than expected to get Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) support or the Minister's authorisation (High Street Boulevard, Intensive Animal Industries). The impact of those factors has then delayed other work. We have completed an extensive environmental scan and believe we have identified the work known. Given our changing environment, it is too unpredictable to plan further ahead and other issues always arise. This list does not include any new, site specific amendments sponsored by private landowners. What is clearly apparent is the extent of work for the benefit of the overall community, takes the full resources available. While private sponsors do pay the cash costs, those amendments still take staff time. It is estimated that the McIvor Forest residential estate took 40 days of staff time; Forest Edge 90 days; Big Hill industrial estate 15 days. If new private amendments are proposed, a decision will be needed about whether other work is delayed or additional resources are applied. If any requests are made and are to be accommodated, this will be reported to Council in more detail. One model is for the applicant to meet the cost not just of the technical evidence and Panel costs, but to fund the resources required on behalf of Council in this process. Any new proposals for amendments will be evaluated against the priority list using the same evaluation framework and as listed projects are completed. It will also be adjusted if Council priorities change. Revisions to the Priorities List The following projects are not proceeding:

Ironstone Road Development Plan Overlay - No longer required by applicant.

680-708 Calder Highway, Maiden Gully - Not progressed by applicant and will be included as part of the Housing Strategy.

LaTrobe University, Osborne Street - Not progressed by applicant and will be included as part of the Housing Strategy.

Bushfire Management Overlay - the State Government took a different approach. Other work known to be needed but not scheduled at this stage includes:

Review of Bendigo & Eaglehawk Heritage Study

St John of God Hospital Precinct Plan

Policy response (food or alcohol) to Active and Healthy Living

Ironbark Precinct Plan

Huntly Heritage Study

Review of Infrastructure Design Manual

Parking Precinct Plan in commercial areas

Review of Vegetation Protections Overlay mapping

Review of character policies

Review of rural dwellings and subdivision

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"Backyardscape" policy

Review of Highway Entrances and Boulevard Policy (including fence design)

Development Plans for Golden Square and Kangaroo Flat

Bendigo Transport Hub

Industrial Design Guidelines

Axedale Flood Study

Elmore Flood Study

Maiden Gully Township Centre Design Framework.

Conclusion

This is the "best estimate" for a 3 year plan at this point in time. The final decision will be for Council each year as it determines its annual actions and budget allocation.

Resource Implications

The budget adopted by Council provides for the 2015/2016 list of works.

Attachments

1. Planning Scheme Amendment Timing Gantt Chart

RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to endorse the plan as outlined.

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2.5 CONNECTING GREATER BENDIGO: INTEGRATED TRANSPORT & LAND USE STRATEGY (ITLUS)

Document Information

Author Katherine Wrzesinski, Senior Integrated Transport Planner Responsible Prue Mansfield, Director Planning and Development Director

Summary/Purpose

The presentation of the ITLUS Strategy in this report is the culmination of:

The community wholeheartedly rejecting a business-as-usual road transport plan and demanding better outcomes for this City and community;

The Council's foresight and leadership in supporting and resourcing the work and investment required to complete a much more holistic and integrated approach. This approach will require concerted effort in the long term to change our approach to infrastructure provision and community behaviour change to minimise congestion and improve community health outcomes.

The energy of many agencies, community groups and individuals who have guided our thinking to this point and will help with implementation.

The adoption of the final Strategy and the preparation of a planning scheme amendment to assist with the ITLUS implementation are recommended.

Policy Context

Council Plan Reference: City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013–2017 (updated 2015–2016) Planning for Growth Strategy 2.3 Sustainable transport options are supported in the Integrated Transport

and land Use Strategy (ITLUS) Strategy References: Bendigo Road Transport Strategy 2011: http://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/Residents_and_Services/Roads_naturestrips_and_drains/Draft_Bendigo_Road_Transport_Strategy At its meeting on August 17, 2011 Council considered a detailed report relating to the outcomes from the public display and consultation on the draft Strategy. Council resolved to adopt a course of action that set the preparation of the ITLUS in motion.

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The current transportation strategy “Bendigo 2020 Transportation Strategy” was adopted in 1993. It was prepared by the then five urban Bendigo Councils and VicRoads. Council’s adopted Bendigo Residential Development Strategy (BRDS) which seeks to provide for new residential development within the existing Urban Growth Boundary (UGB); supports the integration of land use and transport and focusing development in and around designated activity centres, including the city centre and along major transit corridors; and the development of ‘10 minute neighbourhoods’, where households can access daily needs by walking and cycling; all of which have transport and general mobility implications. The Commercial Land Strategy (2006) is currently being reviewed. The new Commercial Land and Activity Centre Strategy (CLACS), soon to be presented to Council for adoption, has transport, access and freight movement implications and is aligned with both the ITLUS and the BRDS. Legislative Reference: The Transport Integration Act 2010 creates a framework for an integrated and sustainable transport system in Victoria. It recognises transport planning and land-use are interdependent. The Act’s vision calls for ‘…an integrated and sustainable transport system that contributes to an inclusive, prosperous and environmentally responsible State’. Council is required to have regard for the Act’s objectives and decision making principles with respect to any action that may significantly impact on the transport system. State and Regional Strategic Plan References: The “State of Cities” section of Plan Melbourne identifies that Bendigo will need to absorb an increasing proportion of the State’s growth which has both land use and transport implications. The Loddon Mallee South Regional Growth Plan forecasts that Greater Bendigo will accommodate “significant growth” and consolidate its role as a major regional centre. Victoria – The Freight State (2013) is a Victorian State Government strategy that acknowledges the regional significance of Bendigo, with principal freight network road and rail routes servicing the city and a high-productivity freight vehicle route connecting Bendigo to the wider Melbourne metropolitan area.

Background Information

In September 2014 the Councillor Forum was provided with an update on the work undertaken during Stages 2, 3 and 4 of the ITLUS development, which culminated in the drafting of a Stage 4 Consultant’s Report. The Report set out the consultant’s recommended directions, ideas and proposed actions to be considered for inclusion in the Final ITLUS. It set out a framework for:

an integrated approach to transport and land use planning;

reducing our reliance on cars;

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making the best use possible of the available infrastructure, including road space and rail infrastructure to meet capacity demands; and

being open to exploring opportunities to do things differently. The ITLUS Steering Committee in September 2014 resolved to seek community feedback on the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report; and to await the completion of key strategic work; as well as the incoming government’s anticipated announcements relating to transport and land use; all of which were likely to have significant bearing on the final Strategy. The Stage 4 Consultant’s Report was on public display for 9 weeks until 22 December 2014. In December 2014 Public Transport Victoria (PTV) announced that they were commencing a review of the Bendigo Bus Network. Subsequently a second review was undertaken in May/June 2015. The newly elected Labour Government committed $2M over four years for the Bendigo Metro Rail initiative. Through an initiative of the Regional RDA consultants commenced the preparation of a Loddon Mallee South Regional Transport Strategy. In April 2015 a Councillor Forum presentation was given detailing the outcomes of community feedback on Stage 4 Consultant’s Report; as well as the latest strategic work and research findings. The months that followed the public release of the Stage 4 Report have resulted in unprecedented interest among key businesses and community organisations in ITLUS. This has culminated in 21 organisations formally agreeing to partner with CoGB to commit to implement at least one initiative in the ITLUS. Many of them have taken part in the ITLUS initiatives during the Strategy development.

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This list is expected to expand over time as the ITLUS implementation continues. The significance of seeing such keen interest among the local transport, business, health and education sectors, and various community interest groups is not to be underestimated. It reflects the passion for positive change that the ITLUS advocates and a desire to take an active part in making it happen. As such, the ITLUS is as much about the process used to develop it, as it is about what it aims to achieve for Greater Bendigo.

It appears that the idea of having extensive community backing for partnerships of this type is a ground breaking initiative for transport strategies in Australia.

The Final ITLUS (Attachment 1) has been drafted in view of all of the above and is the subject of this report. Previous Council Decision Dates: Draft Road Transport Strategy (2009-2011) 2009 (November) - Council adopted a brief for a Road Transport Strategy (consultant appointment) at the Ordinary Council meeting on 18 November 2009. 2011 (March) - Council adopted a draft Road Transport Strategy for the purpose of public consultation at the Ordinary Council meeting on 23 March 2011. 2011 (May) – Public submissions closed on 26 May 2011 – 453 submissions were received. 2011 (July) – A report summarising the submissions was tabled at the 6 July 2011 Ordinary Council meeting and a full copy of all written submissions was provided. 2011 (July) – A public hearing of written submissions was held on 21 July 2011 and attended by Councillors together with officers from City of Greater Bendigo and VicRoads. 2011 (August) – A report was presented to the Ordinary Council meeting on 17 August 2011 recommending a way forward for the project. Council endorsed the motion to ‘support a research project into the likely actions, effectiveness and resource implications of completing a Sustainable Transport Strategy for Bendigo’ and Council adopted a series of detailed positions in regards to elements of the draft Road Transport Strategy. Integrated Transport Research Paper 2011 (November) - A report was presented to the Ordinary Council meeting on 30 November 2011 at which Council endorsed the Project Brief for the Sustainable Transport Research Paper and Community Discussions. Integrated Transport & Land Use Strategy (ITLUS) May 2012 – An Integrated Transport Research Paper was presented to the Ordinary Council meeting on 2 May 2011. Council endorsed the research paper and recommendations: 1. That the City of Greater Bendigo immediately commence the development of an

Integrated Transport & Land Use Strategy (ITLUS) to establish a clear long term, effective and sustainable vision for Bendigo’s transport network;

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2. To engage an appropriately skilled Integrated Transport Planner to scope and project manage the preparation of an ITLUS in partnership with Department of Planning and Community Development, Department of Transport and VicRoads;

3. To ensure that best practice consultation and community engagement is completed during preparation of the ITLUS including a widely represented steering group;

4. To allocate $150,000 in 2012/2013, and confirm additional funding support from the Department of Transport and/or VicRoads and/or the Department of Planning and Community Development to adequately resource the preparation of an ITLUS; and

5. That the previous research findings of the draft Bendigo Road Transport Strategy, together with public submissions received, are considered in the development of an Integrated Transport and Land use Strategy for Bendigo.

2012 (October) – A Senior Integrated Transport Planner was appointed for a period of three years to scope out the project and manage the development of the ITLUS. 2013 (April) – A report was provided to Council with an update on the work undertaken was tabled and Council approved the proposed ITLUS development process by endorsing the associated project planning documentation, including the Project Brief, Project Work Program, Community Engagement Plan and the Project Governance Structure. 2013 (August) – A Councillor Forum presentation provided a progress update and informed Council on the upcoming community consultation. 2014 (September) – Councillor Forum was provided with an update on the work undertaken during Stages 2, 3 and 4 of the ITLUS development and Council advised on the Strategy finalisation process, as endorsed by the ITLUS Steering Committee. 2015 (April) - A Councillor Forum presentation was provided to inform Councillors about the outcomes of community feedback on the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report; as well as the latest work and research findings bearing on the finalisation of the ITLUS.

Report

Priority/Importance:

The ITLUS is Council’s principal strategy for managing the integration of transport and land use into the future.

Given the wide breadth of transport, land use, health and wellbeing and economic issues impacted by the ITLUS, it is of primary importance in guiding the future growth and development of Greater Bendigo. Integration of transport and land use is mandated by the Transport Integration Act (2010). All transport planning and land-use decisions are required to be made with consideration of the Transport Integration Act (2010. This means Council is required to have regard for the transport system objectives and decision making principles with respect to any action that may significantly impact on the transport system.

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Progress: The ITLUS development took time but it did not delay action. In fact, as the ITLUS process gained momentum, so did the collaborative work designed to improve the city’s transport options and the community’s perceptions of active travel. This work continued after the public release of the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report in December 2014. Key findings and recommendations resulting from the strategic, technical and implementation activities outlined below have been incorporated into the final ITLUS. Refining the detail that needed to be captured by the ITLUS

Review of community comments on the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report.

Working closely with PTV, VicRoads, and the CoGB’s Economic Development Unit, Healthy Together team and the Engineering and Public Assets Directorate to establish consensus on responses to community comments and the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report recommendations.

In depth analysis of the road network based on the latest data - B double routes; traffic volumes; what road works have been undertaken since Bendigo 2020 Transportation Study (July1993); review of the functioning of the ‘outer box’ and implications for Reservoir Road and Olinda/Pyke/Miller Streets.

Evaluation of freight routes and priorities with the freight industry. Working closely with State Government on initiatives that have direct implications for ITLUS

PTV’s Bendigo Bus Network Review - liaising with PTV, responding to community concerns and advocating on their behalf for improved services.

Bendigo Metro Rail – a Victorian Government initiative which aims to deliver a commuter train service for Bendigo, with an increased number of services running from Epsom, Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat to Bendigo. The project aligns with the objectives of ITLUS, which includes increasing public transport patronage, encouraging alternatives to car usage and facilitating urban renewal and development opportunities around transport hubs and key activity centres. Council representatives (the Mayor and the Strategy Manager) and several members of the ITLUS Reference Group were on the Community Consultative Taskforce to provide recommendations to the Minister for Public Transport. A Technical Working Group was established (the Strategy Manager represented the CoGB) to support the Community Consultative Taskforce.

Regional Network Development Plan – a Victorian Government initiative designed to move Victoria away from ad hoc public transport service improvements, towards a more coordinated regional public transport network where train and bus services work together to get people where they need to go quicker and more reliably. The City has been contributing its knowledge of local and regional transport issues and planning expertise through the appointment of the Strategy Manager to the Minister for Public Transport’s Regional Transport Advisory Group, responsible for overseeing the development of the Plan. The Plan will set out priorities for regional public transport services, infrastructure upgrades, network extension, rolling stock and other investment during the next 20 to 30 years. An extensive process of community consultation in this region will take place in late August 2015.

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Loddon Mallee South Regional Transport Strategy – Council representatives have joined their counterparts from other Loddon Mallee South Councils, to assist with the development of the Strategy. The Strategy being prepared by consultants aims to inform and identify the transport needs of the whole of the region, and will propose mechanisms to address these needs.

SmartRoads User Hierarchy – SmartRoads is a key network planning tool used by VicRoads in conjunction with Council to better manage road infrastructure by giving strategic priority to various transport modes (i.e. cars, public transport, walking, cycling and freight) along routes at various locations and at different times of the day. Council staff are working closely with representatives from VicRoads and PTV to deliver the User Hierarchy. Two workshops have been held and the project will be completed over the coming months.

Working on initiatives that encourage a shift away from cars to public transport, walking and cycling

La Trobe University (as one of the four major trip generators in the City) has recently prepared and released a campus Master Plan which includes a transport strategy. The University will play a key role in working with the CoGB towards a reduction in the number of single occupant cars on Bendigo’s roads. Council representatives provided extensive input into the University’s Plan. Significantly the Plan re-routes existing bus services through the campus with a central on-campus bus stop which is designed to encourage a considerable increase in students and staff using the bus services to the campus particularly the connection to the railway station which PTV has identified as a priority route resulting in their review proposing greater frequency and span of services. The University is anticipating completing the internal road works to facilitate this prior to the commencement of semester one in 2016. La Trobe University had a direct input into the ITLUS as a Member of the ITLUS Reference Group.

Other major employers - CoGB, Bendigo & Adelaide Bank and Bendigo Health are the major organisations that generate most of the work-associated trips into the City Centre. Recent ITLUS research found that if one day per week each person at the three organisations walks, cycles, car-shares or uses public transport instead of driving alone that will take over 1,000 cars off our roads each morning. A number of partnership initiatives have been undertaken and continue to be developed which can be shared, co-funded and otherwise pursued as part of ITLUS implementation.

Map My 10 Minute Neighbourhood – The City website’s Community Compass tool has been redeveloped to help children, families and residents learn more about facilities, places of interest and community groups located within a 10 minute walk or cycle of where they live. This ITLUS initiative is a result of collaboration between the City and Bendigo TAFE.

Promotion of public transport – work continues, involving the Bus Association of Victoria and Whitmore's Bus Services, on innovative initiatives to attract more passengers, particularly those living in Strathfieldsaye, onto the newly improved service. This includes a promotional ‘tour’ of the Strathfieldsaye route on one of the new buses; as well as establishing a trial of bicycle racks on the bus.

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Continued work with schools – a large proportion of Greater Bendigo’s traffic is associated with school pick-up and drop-off. This not only contributes to congestion but it also has an adverse impact on children’s safety and wellbeing. Working with schools to encourage more active travel among their students has been a key focus throughout the ITLUS development. Most recently, this has involved the preparation of an active travel toolkit, which has been developed in collaboration with local schools and with the Healthy Together team, which will be launched in September and provided for all primary schools in Greater Bendigo.

Final Strategy

Development of the Strategy has been a dynamic process embedded in community engagement, building of partnerships, fostering of consensus and seeking opportunities to do things smarter and sharing resources.

The Final ITLUS (Attachment 1) is a culmination of this process. The document is derived from the themes and recommendations outlined in the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report. It constitutes a substantial refinement based on the community feedback received; as well as the result of the technical, strategic and implementation work completed since December 2014 (outlined above). Council’s attention is brought to specific refinements detailed in the following sections. Compact Bendigo Like the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report, the Final Strategy groups its overarching goals under 5 themes.

While ‘Compact Bendigo’ featured in the Consultant’s Report, the concept was adopted within the 2014 Residential Strategy and has now become a basic assumption, upon which the whole of the ITLUS is based. The key Compact Bendigo objectives and actions are now captured under Connecting Bendigo. This change is an example of how the document evolved. The ITLUS should continue to be considered as a living document after its adoption: to change with the community and be updated over time to align with other Council and state government strategies.

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Engaging Bendigo This is a new theme, introduced to capture the importance of delivering the ITLUS through partnerships between the Greater Bendigo, government agencies, businesses and community groups. The success of the transport and land use responses outlined in the ITLUS is highly dependent on a generational shift – a shift from a culture that always prioritises car use to get to daily destinations as more important than getting there in a healthy way that minimises the impact on others and the environment. This will require many of us to reassess some of our daily routines and the way we do business. It will require a concerted effort to build community understanding of the benefits and their support for Council’s long term commitment to:

Visionary leadership – endorsement of the Final ITLUS is the first step towards far sighted, long term and progressive action that results from the cumulative impact of many projects and initiatives over time.

Consistent decision making – that aligns with the ITLUS objectives for transport and land use when for example, dealing with proposed new subdivisions, medium density housing proposals or bus network reviews. This undoubtedly will prove to be challenging in the face of changing governments but is key to reaping the rewards of a long term commitment.

High level of community engagement and transparency – necessary not only to make decisions which align with evolving community sentiment; but also to build a sense of community ownership which is essential to motivating people to progressively change their behaviour. Behaviour change is a key challenge requiring long term commitment and open conversations with the community. Just as reducing the road toll took many years of government sponsored education programs, infrastructure changes and new laws over many years.

Engaging Bendigo is about making the transition possible by building on Greater Bendigo’s ‘can do’ attitude and a strong community and partnership spirit. It builds on the extensive partnerships and agreements established during the development of the ITLUS and focuses on:

sharing of knowledge and ideas;

co-funding, promoting and organising behaviour change events;

co-bidding for and co-funding capital works and service delivery.

The emphasis on constructive partnerships, where a whole host of organisations commit to working with the CoGB to assist in the implementation of the ITLUS appears to be unparalleled in transport strategies across Australia. It is a major defining element of the ITLUS development process and the final Strategy.

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Bendigo Metro Rail The ITLUS aligns with the Bendigo Metro Rail initiative which recognises and supports the community’s aspirations for 20 minute peak and 40 minute inter peak services to and from Bendigo, Epsom, Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat. Bendigo Metro Rail deals with immediate service improvements ($2M commitment). It also looks to progressively improve V/Line train network through Bendigo to encourage local travel. However, the Bendigo Metro Rail terms of reference only deals with the provision for the existing railway stations in Bendigo. The ITLUS aspirations go beyond this and further into the future. For example, the Strategy advocates for the:

Investigation of the critical success factors including land use and urban development opportunities as well as productivity, liveability and health dividends associated with providing additional railway stations at Huntly, Maiden Gully, Golden Square and Marong, as identified by the Residential Strategy.

Reopening of the Golden Square railway station and the construction of a new railway station at the Bendigo Showgrounds, in conjunction with urban development for new stations at Maiden Gully with the capacity for grade separation, a new station at Marong and a planned station at the Marong Business Park.

The ultimate long term goal being the development of a ‘stand alone’ urban rail system to provide for high-speed and high-capacity movement of people to and from the City Centre and to activity centres located along the railway network.

PTV’s Bus Network Review 2014-2015 A high quality bus network is integral to the sustainable growth of Bendigo. Given the shorter timeframes for delivering bus-based initiatives in comparison to rail based initiatives, the bus network will be required to lead the change in mode shift away from private vehicles. Bus services need to be a real alternative if reduced car dependency is to be achieved. We can only encourage commuters to switch to using the bus if:

their journeys are not made longer (by travel time)

they do not have to wait an unreasonably long time for a bus

the timetable covers the times they need to travel

the entire journey is easier than driving and parking The ITLUS aligns with the recent Review’s intention for the bus services to complement new train service improvements, introduced as part of Bendigo Metro Rail; and those associated with the completion of the Regional Rail Link project. It is our understanding that this is a first in a series of anticipated reviews designed to progressively build a high quality urban bus service and network. The ITLUS however, goes beyond the immediate improvements resulting from the Review. It advocates for a progressive, significant increase in frequencies, extending of hours of operation and weekend coverage on all routes, in particular along the four main transport corridors namely: Kangaroo Flat to City Centre, Huntly to City Centre, Eaglehawk to City Centre and Strathfieldsaye to City Centre. This while providing a high level of coverage on the distributer routes which service local neighbourhoods and their centres. The ultimate ITLUS goal being a 10 minute service at peak times on most routes; 5 minute services on specialist routes, such as to the La Trobe University and the Bendigo Hospital; and much more late night coverage.

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The Strategy also emphasises the importance of improving public transport services for the growing townships. For example it advocates for a consolidation of existing bus services to improve connections between Heathcote and urban Bendigo with services for Axedale and Junortoun. Key actions arising out of ITLUS for Council’s consideration and endorsement Firstly: As part of the development process of ITLUS consideration has been given to each of the issues identified in Council’s resolution of August 2011. In order to ‘close the loop’ on those matters it is recommended that Council adopt the following positions on each of those resolutions. The resolutions are in italics. 1. Notes that a complete ‘bypass’ to the east of Bendigo is not justified and does not

form part of the current draft document.

ITLUS – the research undertaken as part of ITLUS and in consultation with VicRoads has re-affirmed this finding and position.

2. Supports a research project into the likely actions, effectiveness and resource

implications of completing a Sustainable Transport Strategy for Bendigo. Such a project would include identification of a proposed methodology and a stakeholder engagement plan.

ITLUS – This whole approach was integral to the ITLUS process.

3. Supports the removal of ITC 2 Gladstone Street to Nolan Street from the current

draft document.

ITLUS – affirmed. 4. Subject to 3, supports further investigation of possible improvements to promote

better use of underutilised existing major roads, such as Pyke Street, Miller Street, Sternberg Street, Houston Street, Somerville Street and Belle Vue Road, in the Quarry Hill and East Bendigo areas. Defers consideration of ITC 2 north of Nolan Street and east of the railway line until the findings of the research project described in 2 are known.

ITLUS - does not propose to change the status of these roads. While the 1993 Study recommended substantial upgrading of underutilised existing roads, the research undertaken as part of ITLUS and in consultation with VicRoads does not warrant the works envisaged. Other priorities will deliver far more benefits. Further investigation of possible improvements to promote better use of major roads in Quarry Hill and East Bendigo will form part of ongoing work between the CoGB and VicRoads, as addressed in the ITLUS actions relating to SmartRoads and the jointly funded (with Regional Development Victoria) detailed Bendigo freight study.

5. Defers consideration of ITC 2 north of Nolan Street and East of the east of the

railway line until the findings of the research project described in 2 are known.

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ITLUS – the research undertaken as part of ITLUS and in consultation with VicRoads does not warrant the works associated with ITC 2 north of Nolan Street and East of the east of the railway line.

6. Defers consideration of ITC 1 Allingham Street until the findings of the research

project described in 2 are known.

ITLUS – the research undertaken as part of ITLUS and in consultation with VicRoads does not warrant the works associated with ITC 1 Allingham Street proposal.

7. Notes that no change to the draft document is proposed in regard to the

Hattam/Adam Street project (OB3).

ITLUS – affirmed. 8. Notes that no change to the draft document is proposed in regard to the Chum

Street project (OA6).

ITLUS – affirmed. 9. Notes that a further report will be provided on other aspects of the current

document in the coming months.

ITLUS – progress reports on ITLUS were provided to Council. 10. Acknowledge the significant contribution made by the Bendigo community in the

development of this document to date.

ITLUS – the continuing community engagement with and contribution to ITLUS has been invaluable.

Secondly: The Final ITLUS (Attachment 1) provides a refined set of actions which are grouped as follows: • New actions to implement ITLUS – this refers to actions that are specific initiatives

of the ITLUS. • ITLUS actions which support other policies and strategies – this refers to actions

which align with other strategic documents and progress on which is already reported on.

• Actions which continue the ongoing work of the ITLUS – this refers to actions which advance/progress/expand on work already undertaken as part of Council’s day to day operations and known long term commitments.

The actions are assigned the following time frames: Short term – actions which cover the next five years; Medium term – actions which cover the period 2020 to 2030; Long Term – actions which cover the period 2030 and beyond with Greater Bendigo reaching 200,000 residents.

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The Final ITLUS also provides an “at a glance” summary (pages 8 and 9) which captures the essence of the detailed actions. The document thus provides for a range of audiences – from the practitioners who will be responsible for day to day implementation; to the broader public who are interested in the Strategy’s overall intent.

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The following is a list of actions from the ITLUS which, when endorsed, will formally mark the commencement of the ITLUS implementation program: For the purposes of this report, only the short term (up to 5 years) actions have been listed. The medium and longer term actions are in the full report. Connecting 1. Develop ‘transport hub and urban renewal implementation plans’ for Bendigo,

Eaglehawk, Epsom and Kangaroo Flat railway stations and surrounding precincts with a focus on improved and safer pedestrian and cycling access and circulation, improved urban spaces and landscaping, bus network and interchange facilities, commercial development and medium density housing incorporating affordable housing options.

This is an initiative of significant regional strategic importance and it is anticipated that major elements of this are likely to be funded by State Government.

2. Develop a detailed Precinct Structure Plan for Marong Township to support its

development into a township supporting about 8,000 people, and serviced by high quality public transport connections to Bendigo, including provision for a rail service.

Due to commence in the first half of 2016. This forms part of Council’s ongoing strategic planning work program.

3. Recognise and reinforce Pall Mall as Australia’s premier 19th century boulevard

and ensure that urban design features and transport network planning measures, balance its heritage architecture and contemporary uses, prioritise the safe and convenient movement of people across Pall Mall, create a sense of place, support business activity and provide for safe movement of traffic.

This forms part of Council’s ongoing collaboration with VicRoads to prepare a SmartRoads plan for Greater Bendigo which is underway and is funded by VicRoads. (medium term)

Healthy 4. Implement a Design and Development Overlay as part of the Greater Bendigo

Planning Scheme based on the Heart Foundation’s Healthy by Design Guidelines and apply the healthy, walkable neighbourhood design principles when undertaking structure and master planning, urban design frameworks for activity centres, planning for development near public transport interchanges, particularly railway stations and along main bus transit corridors.

This is an input to the implementation of the Greater Bendigo Residential Strategy adopted by Council.

5. Update the City of Greater Bendigo Road Safety Plan 2007-2011 in line with VicRoad’s Towards Zero Strategy principles for minimising road fatalities and injuries, particularly among vulnerable road users, pedestrians, cyclists, the young and the elderly.

This forms part of the standard process of aligning local Road Safety policies with VicRoad’s plans. In line with current practice, external funding will be sought for this program by Presentation and Assets Directorate.

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6. Investigate the relative merits, costs, impediments and approvals required of both:

a. Removing the ban on bicycles in Hargreaves Mall and linking the southern and northern sections of the Bendigo Creek Trail through the City Centre including using the Hargreaves Mall by safely integrating cycling with pedestrians and crossing Pall Mall to link the Trail back to the Creek, and

b. Continuing the Trail within the Bendigo Creek channel and providing for cycle access points at key locations for access to the city centre, Rosalind Park and schools. (short term).

This forms part of the proposed program of works by the Presentation and Assets Directorate

Moving 7. Collaborate with VicRoads to develop an agreed SmartRoads Network Operating

Plan for urban Bendigo to help identify and prioritise improvements to make the best use of existing road space, maximise safety, and provide broader transportation benefits to the community which address traffic growth including by facilitating the use of sustainable transport modes such as public transport, cycling and walking.

This forms part of Council’s ongoing collaboration with VicRoads to prepare a SmartRoads plan for Greater Bendigo which is underway and is funded by VicRoads.

8. Review the relevant Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme Clauses relating to car

parking provisions so as to align them with the ITLUS strategic directions.

This forms part of Council’s ongoing strategic planning work program to implement ITLUS through a planning scheme amendment which is funded in the 2015/16 budget.

9. Undertake a detailed, Bendigo specific freight study (co-funded with RDV) to

identify inhibitors that impact on the efficiency of road and rail freight as well as to explore opportunities for enhancing the productivity of the freight sector and for minimising its impacts on residential amenity and the city’s liveability, such as through identification of preferred freight hub locations and utilisation of state of the art information technology based logistics.

This study is proposed to be funded by Regional Development Victoria. Engaging 10. Provide every Greater Bendigo Primary School with an Active Travel Tool Kit, which

has been developed as an ITLUS active travel initiative, and progressively implement the key elements so as to increase the level of walking, cycling and public transport use among their school communities.

This is an ongoing program supported through Healthy Together.

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11. Continue the existing collaboration between the CoGB and Bendigo TAFE to

maintain and progressively expand the “My Local Neighbourhood” mapping system as part of the Community Compass platform.

Initial setup is due to be completed by Council’s Cadet Social Planner (Strategy) under the 2015-2016 Budget. The ongoing program will be sustained by TAFE students as part of their course work and by Council’s Online Communications Officer as part of her approved work program.

Inspiring Bendigo 12. Establish an ITLUS governance structure by formalising the membership of the

current ITLUS Steering Committee and the Implementation Group and defining their terms of reference.

This requires new Council funding for the appointment of an ITLUS Community Partnerships and Implementation Officer - as outlined later in this report under ‘Resource Implications’.

13. Formalise an ITLUS delivery, monitoring and reporting framework for cross-

organisational integration, coordinated decision-making and measurable performance against refined targets.

This requires new Council funding for the appointment of an ITLUS Community Partnerships and Implementation Officer - as outlined later in this report under ‘Resource Implications’.

14. Apply refined processes for the prioritisation of projects and budgeting so as to

implement the ITLUS.

This requires new Council funding for the appointment of an ITLUS Community Partnerships and Implementation Officer - as outlined later in this report under ‘Resource Implications’.

15. Incorporate the relevant aspects of the ITLUS into the Greater Bendigo Planning

Scheme.

This requires new Council funding for the appointment of an ITLUS Community Partnerships and Implementation Officer - as outlined later in this report under ‘Resource Implications’.

16. Coordinate an integrated delivery, monitoring and reporting process through

establishing an ‘Implementation Group’ and ensure that this process is transparent and well communicated to key stakeholders, project partners and the broader community.

This requires new Council funding for the appointment of an ITLUS Community Partnerships and Implementation Officer - as outlined later in this report under ‘Resource Implications’.

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17. Trial a fully integrated and collaborative planning and delivery model comprising

PTV and V/Line for buses, trains (including the roll out of Bendigo Metro Rail) and taxis working in partnership with the City of Greater Bendigo. This would include a coordinated approach to community consultation, high level network planning, timetabling and marketing.

Items 12-17 require new Council funding for the appointment of an ITLUS Community Partnerships and Implementation Officer - as outlined later in this report under ‘Resource Implications’'.

18. Trial a range of on-road separated bicycle lane treatments, cyclist and pedestrian

priority and safety improvements, including a separated bicycle lane solution through the City Centre to connect the southern and northern sections of the Bendigo Creek Linear Trail.

Further investigation of the preferred treatments and a funding bid under Councils Capital Works Program will be developed by the Presentation and Assets Directorate.

Support for ITLUS actions from the State Government transport portfolio The transport portfolio was directly involved in the development of the ITLUS as members of the project Steering Committee. The portfolio represents the following government agencies and departments:

The Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport & Resources (DEDJTR);

VicRoads; and

Public Transport Victoria (PTV). In a recent formal letter the transport portfolio confirms its in-principle support for the goals and objectives of the ITLUS. It states its commitment to using the final document as a key input into future network planning and in its advice to government on transport policy, programs and funding. The transport portfolio cannot commit to specific actions that do not have a current funding commitment. This relates, for example, to the ITLUS aspirational goals associated with opening new railways stations in Huntly and Marong etc. (refer above for details) In this case, the Final ITLUS includes actions which advocate for improvements that reflect the long term aspirations of the Greater Bendigo community. The transport portfolio however, commits to support the prioritisation, funding and delivery of ITLUS actions through government’s strategies, programs and further detailed analysis. In fact, their focus on delivering the ITLUS outcomes has been emphasised on relevant public websites, such as the one dealing with the Bus Network review and the Bendigo Metro Rail initiative.

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The Council should be commended for committing to the highly collaborative ITLUS development process from its inception. Likewise, the transport portfolio representatives, who sat on the ITLUS Steering Committee, should be commended for their cooperation and inspiring leadership. This firmly established the Strategy’s capture of unprecedented level of cooperation, open discussion; and a genuine desire to better integrate government planning and action that aligns with the community aspirations. The ITLUS development ‘journey’ has inspired those involved to look to solutions and to be hands on in delivering the aspirations, particularly those relating to positive change in travel behaviour. The following statement from the transport portfolio is illustrative of this point: “We agree that it is important for organisations to lead by example to successfully implement ITLUS. In response, VicRoads Northern Region also commits to establishing an ongoing green travel plan and program for its Bendigo office. We will share the outcomes of these initiatives with council to add to its evidence of how organisations can lead travel behaviour change.”

Consultation/Communication

Internal Consultation: Staff from City work areas responsible for transport, land use, community health and wellbeing and associated activities have been continually involved in the ITLUS development. Many were members of the Technical Working (TWG) Group and have taken part in workshops, public forums and targeted discussions. Their expertise and city knowledge was sought in the review of the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report and the drafting of the final Strategy.

The adoption of the ITLUS starts the process of staff and Council approaching a range of issues with a different mindset and looking for solutions that align with ITLUS.

The staff directly responsible for delivering the ITLUS objectives will be engaged in regularly scheduled discussions with the Strategy unit on how to apply existing communications, planning and engineering tools to deliver the desired outcomes. Their hands-on experience will help to refine current practices and the ITLUS will inform their recommendations. For example, the City’s Traffic Engineers, who make recommendations to Council on matters relating to traffic solutions, have already started to and will need to consider treatments that do not impede or rather promote safe access by walking and cycling. The City's Statutory Planning staff, on the other hand, will need to ensure that proposals for subdivision, land use and development embody and deliver the ITLUS outcomes. External Consultation: The Stage 4 Report consultation marked a turning point in a long running community engagement process involving thousands of people who actively took part in helping to develop the ITLUS. More than 700 people provided comments on the Report, adding to an estimated 25,600 persons who already took an interest in the project.

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The vast majority chose to meet face to face:

by attending 11 listening posts across the municipality;

coming to ward meetings;

one-on-one meetings;

group discussions (e.g. with Bendigo Take Action and Sustainability Groups); and

a workshop with the freight and industry sector representatives. About 200 wrote in, filled out a survey or provided their view over the phone. The community response to the Consultant’s recommendations was overwhelmingly positive:

There was a strong support for innovation and doing things differently;

An emphasis on combining health and transport by focusing on children and their travel to school;

Reiterated statements around the importance of improving bus services.

Strong advocacy for stepped up investment in high quality, safe walking and cycling infrastructure; and

Great support to deliver ITLUS through partnerships. There were some in the community who pointed to the difficulty of getting people to make even relatively modest changes to their daily travel habits while the car still remains the most convenient and direct mode of transport to many of Greater Bendigo’s destinations. This sentiment was particularly pronounced during discussions held in the rural areas and City’s townships – understandably so when we consider the distances that these residents are having to travel and the lack of public transport. ITLUS responds to these comments by advocating strongly for urgent and substantial improvements to public transport services and the City’s walking and cycling paths to offer real choice that is comparable to driving cars. It is acknowledged that the issue is more difficult to resolve for rural and township communities where it is substantially more difficult to provide alternatives. The emphasis on shifting some trips from a car to active healthy travel, whenever and wherever possible then becomes paramount and forms the basis of the ITLUS philosophy. For example, if those who work in the Bendigo city centre and travel by car each day choose an alternative travel mode (bus, walking, cycling or car sharing) one day out of five work days; we can get at least 2,000 cars off the roads. The ITLUS’s call for ‘1 in 5’ commutes to work or school to be by active healthy travel has been enthusiastically received by those in the public transport sector – the Bus Association of Victoria has indicated in discussions with City officers that they are planning to develop a national campaign, based on the ‘1 in 5’ concept, with Greater Bendigo being promoted as the launching pad. There were also some recurring themes raised with relation to the Bendigo’s road network recommendations:

Those raised by the industry and freight sector during their workshop; and

Those raised by two resident lobby groups with relation to two specific sections of the road network - Reservoir Road and Olinda/Pyke/Miller Streets.

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A summary of these comments and recommended responses were presented to the ILTUS Steering Committee at their 10 April 2015 meeting. Detail of the refined responses based on the Steering Committee feedback are contained in (Attachment 2) to this report and have been incorporated into the Final ITLUS.

Resource Implications

All work required to refine the ITLUS after the public release of the Stage 4 Consultant’s Report was undertaken under the 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 Council approved budgets. Throughout the process, funds were allocated to implementation alongside of the Strategy development, particularly in the case of behaviour change initiatives. Endorsement of the Final ITLUS will have the following resource implications:

The bulk of actions relating to public transport (bus and rail) and arterial road network improvements will not have significant resource implications as they are the responsibility of state government departments and agencies (e.g. VicRoads and PTV). For example, Bendigo Metro Rail funds allocated in the State budget and the bus network improvements resulting from the recent review which will be fully funded by PTV – Council has been and will continue devoting in house resources to advocate on behalf of the local community. Similarly, the SmartRoads network planning initiative, which is already underway, will be fully funded by VicRoads – in house staff resources will constitute Council’s contribution to this important initiative.

Numerous other actions will be resourced in house as part of the City’s day to day operations which progress the implementation of other strategic planning. For example, the structure planning and Planning Scheme Amendments resulting from the Greater Bendigo Residential Strategy and the Commercial Land and Activity Centre Strategy.

Developing staff thinking and practices in various City departments will also help deliver the ITLUS outcomes without significant additional resource implications. For example, through the Planning Scheme Application process that responds to actions which foster housing diversity; or in the case of delivering an action that requires staff to apply the latest road, intersection, footpath, pedestrian crossing and cycle path design solutions to reduce traffic related death and injury in activity areas and local neighbourhoods.

Actions relating to initiatives that have strategic regional and state wide implications are likely to be largely funded by other levels of government. For example, the Bendigo Freight Study; or development of ‘transport hub and urban renewal implementation plans’ for Bendigo, Eaglehawk, Epsom and Kangaroo Flat railway stations and surrounding precincts. The transport portfolio now officially confirmed the current Government’s commitment to “…support the prioritisation, funding and delivery of ITLUS actions…”.

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Actions relating to the provision of new and improved footpaths, shared paths, cycle paths, trails and bicycle parking will require considerable additional funding over the coming years. While some of this infrastructure can be funded through partnerships (e.g. the Strathfieldsaye and District Community Enterprise and CoGB co-funded the recent completion of a shared path in Strathfieldsaye). It is recommended that Council agree to consider applying a ‘rolling budget’ over the coming five years to advance the progressive rollout of this infrastructure across the municipality. Ideally, the ‘rolling budget’ would be equivalent to the one approved ($1.03M) under the 2015-2016 Council Budget. This kind of resource commitment would go a long way towards meeting the community’s urgent calls for this type of investment.

The partnerships which underpin the ITLUS implementation will go a long way towards extending the limited financial reach that all Local Governments, including this Council has to contend with. The process of co-funding and co-bidding for funds to deliver ITLUS initiatives has been firmly established during the Strategy development. This process however requires vigilance and coordinated, strategic supervision. This task was the responsibility of Council’s Senior Integrated Transport Planner engaged for a period of three years to the end in November 2015 for the purpose of delivering the ITLUS. As the ITLUS moves into its implementation phase a skill set focused on community engagement, co-bidding for funding, working with relevant external agencies, detailed implementation, and building and supporting productive partnerships will be needed. It is recommended that Council consider the appointment of an ITLUS Community Engagement, Partnerships and Implementation Officer under the 2016-2017 Council Budget. This resource will have an estimated cost to Council of $100,000 per annum, but has the capacity to generate external funding streams well above this figure. In the immediate future, some of the behaviour change initiatives will continue being delivered in house

Conclusion

The proposed Connecting Greater Bendigo: Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy (ITLUS) is a major new strategic approach to meeting the future transport, development and housing needs of Greater Bendigo – one of Victoria’s fastest-growing regional cities. It is underpinned by strong partnerships with business, government and community organisations.

The strategy will guide where urban growth takes place. It will be a plan for the type and level of transport infrastructure and services to be provided now and into the future. It will be a pivotal tool in achieving Council’s vision of Greater Bendigo working together to be Australia’s most liveable regional city.

The ITLUS was born out of the community’s recognition that realistic and viable alternatives to the way the city grows and the way people and goods move within it are possible. Development of ITLUS was a dynamic process, embedded in community engagement, building of partnerships, fostering of consensus and seeking opportunities to do things smarter and share resources. This laid the foundations for the partnerships and integrated decision making that the ITLUS delivery is based on.

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The ITLUS equips Council with a new understanding about the role and function of Greater Bendigo’s road space; gives greater attention to location and type of land uses in the city’s urban and rural areas as well as the city’s townships; provides for greater transport options; and fosters a shift in travel behaviour towards healthier and more active transport modes. In doing so, the ITLUS goes beyond the standard transport strategy objective – it not only address traffic congestion; it also aims to deliver substantial productivity, liveability and health dividends for the city and the region. Endorsement of the Final ITLUS is the first step towards far sighted, long term and progressive action that results from the cumulative impact of pursuing numerous projects and initiatives over time. It is recommended that the ITLUS be adopted as Council’s principal strategy for managing growth and change.

Attachments

1. Attachment 1 – Connecting Greater Bendigo: Integrated Transport & Land use Strategy

2. Attachment 2 - Refined Responses Based on Steering Committee Feedback

RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to: 1. Adopt Connecting Greater Bendigo: Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy

(ITLUS) – August 2015. 2. Commence the planning scheme amendment process to implement the relevant

strategic and policy directions of the adopted ITLUS. 3. Adopt the policy positions in relation to the ten resolutions from the Council meeting

on August 17 2011 as set out in this report and headed ‘Council Resolutions – August 17 2011’.

4. Adopt actions identified in this report which will formally mark the commencement of

the ITLUS implementation program and those outlined under ‘Resource Implications’ as high priority.

5. Refer and consider the additional funding needed in the budget cycles.

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2.6 PROPOSED SALE OF 8 RENNIE STREET, HUNTLY

Document Information

Author Naomi Fountain, Strategic Property Analyst Responsible Prue Mansfield, Director Planning and Development Director

Summary/Purpose

8 Rennie Street, Huntly is the subject of this report and is identified as potentially surplus. The report documents the feedback provided by community members during public engagement and makes recommendations as to the future handling of the property.

Policy Context

Council Plan 2013-2017 (2014-2015 Update)

Theme 5: Sustainability 5.1 Resources and assets are used wisely to reduce the environmental footprint.

5.1.5 Implement the Surplus Land Disposal Plan. Community Engagement Policy (December 2011) 10 Year Financial Plan Building Asset Management Plan (Draft) Statutory and Discretionary Reserve Policy (November 2012) Local Government Act 1989 (VIC)

Background Information

Local Context The City of Greater Bendigo’s Building and Property Services Unit manages a portfolio of about 750 buildings and 100 structures. The land and buildings are valued in excess of $302M. As part of the City’s Building Asset Management Plan, properties that may not meet the current or future needs of the City are being investigated as potentially surplus. Not all land identified as surplus needs to be sold. “The options for disposal include alternative use, rental, sale, or sale and lease-back…”1. Ongoing consultation and communication will inform which method of disposal is recommended, on a case by case basis, informed by community feedback.

1 The Asset Management Principles Part 1 1995, Victorian Department of Treasury and Finance

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Previous Council Decision Date: S89 Confidential Report: 6 May 2015: That Greater Bendigo City Council resolved to commence public

engagement to seek the view of the community in relation to the potential disposal of 8 Rennie Street, Huntly and 12A Jacob Street, North Bendigo.

Report

8 Rennie Street, Huntly was identified as potentially suitable for disposal in the short term because it does not meet the City’s current or future needs. It is not subject to the Council Plan, any Strategies, Township Structure Plans, Place Based Plan or Reports. Council resolved to seek the community’s views on this property, its potential future use and possible disposal.

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Consultation/Communication Public engagement undertaken in relation to this property:

May 2015 - 100 owners and occupiers of properties in Rennie Street, Hakea Road, Waratah Road and Tecoma Court, Huntly were written to individually and notified of Council’s wish to seek their views on the future use of the property.

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May 2015 - A listening post was undertaken and Naomi Fountain (Strategic Property Analyst) met with residents to seek and record their views. Other conversations were also held with residents and their views recorded.

June 2015 – A letter was sent to each respondent listing the views that were documented and providing an opportunity to amend any information that was missed or misinterpreted. No responses were received in relation to this letter.

In total, face to face and/or telephone conversations were conducted with 12 people of the 100 that were contacted. The views presented by the community are documented in the table below:

8 Rennie Street, Huntly – Community views regarding possible future use

Community Feedback Officer Response

There have been more birds on the property since the subdivision on Waratah Road

Observation noted.

Would just like to be kept informed as to what is happening in relation to the block.

There is an open and transparent process and all engaged residents will be kept up to date with its progress.

Had been informed that the property was an unmade road. Could we put a road through to Tecoma Court which would allow further development on either side of the road?

8 Rennie Street is not an unmade road. It backs onto privately owned residences in Tecoma Court, therefore could not be developed into a road to connect Rennie Street and Tecoma Court.

Retain the land to provide a buffer between the proposed Childcare Centre and Doctors Surgery and the residents of Rennie Street. The adjoining owner should have first option to purchase the property if it is to be sold. Build single bedroom aged care units on the property to provide locals a way to stay in place as they age (rather than having to move to Bendigo).

Suggestions noted.

It is a waste just having it sit there, suggest you sell it. There are other playgrounds in the area and there is no need for another one.

Suggestions noted.

It would be nice if the trees could be saved and a few seats put in. There has been a lot of land clearing in Huntly and there are many small mammals and birds in the area whose habitat has been affected.

The trees on this property were provided by the Shire of Huntly and planted by the adjoining owner, they are not remnant vegetation. Suggestions noted.

Not concerned what happens on the property. Feedback noted.

As long as the area remains peaceful, not concerned what decision is made about the land.

Feedback noted.

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8 Rennie Street, Huntly – Community views regarding possible future use

Community Feedback Officer Response

No problems with the Council doing whatever it needs to with 8 Rennie Street, Huntly.

Feedback noted.

Create a park land. Suggestion noted.

8 Rennie Street, Huntly

The aerial below shows 8 Rennie Street, Huntly and its relationship to established play spaces and Public Open Space in the vicinity.

8 Rennie Street, Huntly in relation to other public open space

Photos of the play spaces and Public Open Space at Staunch Reserve and at the View Point subdivision are below:

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Strauch Reserve, Huntly play space and tennis courts

Waratah Road / View Point subdivision public open space

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View Point subdivision play space

Further particulars of 8 Rennie Street, Huntly:

Size 2,275m²

Zone Low Density Residential Zone

Use Not currently utilized for a community purpose

The land at Rennie Street, Huntly was vested in the Shire of Huntly as Public Open Space at the time of its subdivision in February 1991. Therefore if it is sold any funds raised by the sale would need to be returned to the Public Open Space Reserve. The property could be sold as a residential site. The following preparation would be required:

Proceed to formal Public Notice, with a 28 day consultation period providing feedback opportunities in relation to the sale of the land

Removal of the “Reserve” status from the property

Connection to Coliban waters reticulated sewer system Projected costs for future financial years:

Funds would go to the Open Space Reserve to fund future open space needs.

Conclusion

Public engagement revealed a range of opinion on both sites. Of the residents who responded most would prefer the land be retained and further enhanced as Public Open Space. A minority of responders suggested that we sell the properties for further residential development.

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There is no strategic purpose, place based plan or report that recommends that Council retain this property. This is a site that could be sold for residential development. Proceeds would go into the Open Space Reserve to fund future purchases and ongoing development of open space as the City grows and develops.

Options 1. The Council could hold the property; or

2. The Council could sell the property as discussed

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. That Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to sell 8 Rennie Street, Huntly subject to Section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989;

(a) That Council authorise public notice of its intention to sell the above property in accordance with Section 189 of the Act, and advise engaged residents;

(b) That the three Ward Councillors hear any submissions in relation to the sale of the above property;

2. If no submissions are received in relation to the proposed sale of 8 Rennie Street, Huntly that Council resolve to:

(a) Remove the Public Open Space Reservation;

(b) Connect sewer to the property; and

(c) The above property be sold and that the Council authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign and seal all relevant sale documents.

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3. PRESENTATION AND VIBRANCY

3.1 BENDIGO EASTER FESTIVAL COMMUNITY REFERENCE GROUP

Document Information

Author Terry Karamaloudis, Manager – Major Events Responsible Stan Liacos, Director City Futures Director

Summary/Purpose

The purpose of this report is to recommend that Council appoint two members of the general Bendigo community to the newly established Bendigo Easter Festival Community Reference Group.

Policy Context

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2014-2015 update): Theme: 1 Leadership and good governance Strategy 1.3 Community members take an active part in democratic engagement.

Report

Councillors will recall its recent resolution to form a Bendigo Easter Festival Community Reference Group, and specifically its decision to advertise and recruit two general members of the public to sit on the Committee together with Council (1), Chinese Association (1) and Easter Fair Society Inc. (4) members/representatives. As Council's representative, Cr Fyffe will Chair the Group. After a series of public articles and advertisements, we received three expressions of interest. After considered evaluation, it was concluded that applicants Gary Frank (local electrical contractor) and Rory Somerville (local real estate agent) would make great members of the group and are recommended for appointment for a two year term. Both individuals are well known to staff. They are former members of past Festival Advisory Groups and are well known positive contributors with strong links to existing and potential business sponsors. The Committee will meet quarterly for the purpose of assisting with the planning and delivery of the annual Bendigo Easter Festival. The first meeting of the group will take place early in September 2015. We will keep Council informed of progress as we move forward.

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Resource Implications

N/A

RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to appoint Mr Gary Frank and Mr Rory Somerville to join the newly established Bendigo Easter Festival Community Reference Group for a two year term as general community members.

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3.2 AN OFFICIAL BENDIGO SCOTTISH TARTAN

Document Information

Author Terry Karamaloudis - Manager Major Events Responsible Stan Liacos – Director, City Futures Director

Summary/Purpose The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s support for officially registering a Bendigo Scottish Tartan with the Scottish Tartan Authority in the United Kingdom. Policy Context – Council Plan 3.4 The reputation, profile and attraction of Greater Bendigo and the region are further enhanced through effective promotion. 3.4.2 Market the Bendigo region to Australian and international visitors and local residents as a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, the arts and a range of sporting and recreational attractions. Background Information Bendigo has been influenced and shaped by pioneers and enterprising citizens of Scottish descent since the gold rush era of the 1850s. In more recent years, the connections between Bendigo and Scotland were illustrated by the 2006 “Designs For A Modern World: Charles Rennie Mackintosh” exhibition at Bendigo Art Gallery – one of the first in a succession of international “blockbuster” exhibitions in Bendigo, and staging the second ever Commonwealth Youth Games in 2004 following the inaugural event in Edinburgh, Scotland. The connection between our city and Scotland heritage is now celebrated with a major event held annually on the second Saturday of February. Scots Day Out is held in Rosalind Park and is a major free community event. After just two years, it has quickly established itself as a major activity on the city’s calendar of events and attracts several thousand people from our region and Victoria more generally. Discussions have been held on creating a distinctly Scottish tartan that is unique to Greater Bendigo and Scots Day Out itself to assist with promotion of the city and the event as well as strengthening sentimental links with Scotland. In this regard, a tartan has been designed (see below) that is symbolic of Bendigo – yesterday, today and tomorrow. It has been designed and proposed by the lead organiser of the Scots Day out event, Mr Chris Earl.

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As proposed by Mr Earl, the blue and white are taken from Victoria’s state colours and further represent the water and skies and the mullock heaps from Bendigo’s goldmining days. The reds are symbolic of the earth and the sun while the green demonstrates our fondness and awareness for the forests and bush that surround Bendigo. The gold represents the riches of the past and confidence for the future. While there are state tartans in Australia and some communities have from time to time designed event-specific tartans, research indicates that no actual municipal Council in Australia has its own official tartan. It is proposed that the Bendigo Scots Day Out tartan would be registered with the Scottish Tartan Authority (an official agency of the UK Government). The tartan would be incorporated into promotional material for Scots Day Out and other appropriate community events that involve Scottish heritage. If Council approves this proposal it is expected that the Bendigo Tartan will be designed, registered and sample garments produced within three months of Council’s endorsement. Consultation/Communication Several meetings have been held with representatives of the organising group for Scots Day Out and the Golden City Pipe Band. Both groups are understood to be highly supportive of the concept and design.

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Discussions have also been held with accredited and acknowledged suppliers of new-weave tartans in Australia and the United Kingdom who have indicated their ability and capacity to weave the proposed design. Resource Implications There are no cost implications for Council of this proposal. The proposer (Mr. Chris Earl) is prepared to meet the financial costs of having the tartan officially registered with the relevant authority in Scotland. RECOMMENDATION That the Greater Bendigo City Council endorse the proposal to register an official Bendigo Tartan design with the Scottish Tartan Authority in the United Kingdom as outlined in the body of the report.

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3.3 WOMEN SHOWING THE WAY FORUM 2015

Document Information

Author Tiffany O’Connell, Councillor Support Officer Peter Davies, Manager Executive Services Responsible Craig Niemann, Chief Executive Officer Officer

Summary/Purpose

The purpose of this report is to advise Council of the outcomes of the Women Showing the Way forum held on Wednesday 22 July, 2015 at the Bendigo Town Hall.

Policy Context

Growing community resilience, connectedness and social capital.

Background Information

The conduct of this forum was approved by Council at its Ordinary Council meeting held on 2 October, 2013 as part of the Women Showing the Way initiative. Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s): Council’s Ordinary meeting 10 November 2010 Council’s Ordinary meeting 19 December 2012 Council’s Ordinary meeting 15 August 2012 Council’s Ordinary meeting 2 October 2013

Report

Cr Lisa Ruffell hosted the fifth Women Showing the Way forum for local secondary school students within the municipality. The aim of the forum was to inspire and encourage young women to become involved in community life. The participating schools were:

Bendigo Senior Secondary College

Bendigo South East Secondary College

Catholic College Bendigo

Eaglehawk Secondary College

Girton Grammar

Weeroona College Bendigo

Crusoe Secondary College

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Participating students were selected by the schools. 180 students attended ranging from Year’s 9, 10, 11 and 12 with the majority being in Year 10. The Forum was officially opened by Lisa Chesters MP, Federal Member for Bendigo. Cr Ruffell was the master of ceremonies for the forum. This year’s keynote speaker was Anna Healey. Anna is a wife, mother, secondary school drama teacher, writer and international class gold medal winning Paralympic sailor. Anna was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the age of 28. The forum was supported by inspirational addresses by:

Danielle Snowdon - Danielle is the author of The Nerdy Birdy, which delivers an important anti-bullying message to its young readers. The Nerdy Birdy was shortlisted for the 2014 Children’s Book Council of Australia Crichton Award for New Illustrators. Danielle was awarded the 2015 City of Greater Bendigo Young Citizen of the Year.

Captain Angela Madden – Captain Madden joined the Army in 2006. She moved from Canberra in order to attend the Australian Defence Academy. Captain Madden is currently part of the Defence Force Recruiting - Women in Defence Team. Captain Madden provides support and guidance to all female candidates during the recruiting process.

Fenella Wagener - Fenella attended Girton Grammar School and graduated in 2008. At just 24 years of age Fenella is a successful singer/songwriter, journalist and is currently a Today Show producer in Sydney.

Twenty women leaders were invited to host a table of approximately nine girls, encourage interaction, facilitate round table discussions and help with the formulation of questions to the guest speakers. The leaders were also encouraged to provide their business cards to the students on their tables to act as a future mentor. Cr Ruffell facilitated a round table discussion session focusing on three questions:

1. What is success? 2. Where would you like to be in 5 years' time and/or what are your goals (education,

employment)? 3. What will you take away from today?

A summary of the round table discussions is attached. Outcomes of the day included:

Encouragement and inspiration for students.

Opportunity for students to meet community leaders.

Interaction with students from other schools. Students completed a questionnaire providing feedback on the event, the results are as follows:

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Very Good

Good Average Poor Very Poor

Women Showing the Way was:

78% 22% - - -

Strongly Agree

Agree Not Sure Disagree Strongly Disagree

I enjoyed Women Showing the Way

64% 36% - - -

I learnt a lot by attending Women Showing the Way

60% 38% 2% - -

* This survey was completed by 130 participants

Some feedback provided by the students was as follows: - This forum was absolutely exceptional and I enjoyed every moment. It was really well organised and flowed very smoothly. Each speaker was individual and had a unique story, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Thank you so very much for providing such a wonderful opportunity. Women Showing the Way changed the way of thinking when choosing a career. This event that I had the opportunity to attend made me realise that there are more women in a wide variety of careers then I ever thought possible. Be comfortable with discomfort and stand out and up for what you believe in! Such a great opportunity both to hear from the speakers and talking to them personally on the table, along with discussing success and reams with fellow students.

Resource Implications

The cost of the forum included venue hire, keynote speaker, catering, audio-visual equipment and staging totalling approximately $10,000. In addition there was a considerable voluntary effort by community leaders who made themselves available for the day.

Attachments

1. Summary of Round Table Discussions

RECOMMENDATION

That Council acknowledge the continued success of the Women Showing the Way forums.

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4. PRODUCTIVITY

Nil

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5. SUSTAINABILITY

5.1 GRAEME ROBERTSON, NATIONAL TRUST, CAST IRON COLLECTION

Document Information

Author Dannielle Orr, Heritage Planner, Strategy Responsible Prue Mansfield, Director Planning and Development Director

Summary/Purpose

The purpose of this report is to present options and a recommendation to Council regarding the Graeme Robertson, National Trust of Australia (Victoria), Cast Iron Collection. The Cast Iron Collection consists of two parts:

a collection of Cast Iron objects on a 50 year loan to City of Greater Bendigo (2001-2051); and

a Cast Iron conservatory that was gifted to the City of Greater Bendigo by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) in 2001.

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The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) has asked for both the objects and conservatory to be returned to them. This report recommends instead that the Cast Iron objects be returned but the conservatory be retained.

Policy Context

The City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2015-16 Update) states that ‘The history, unique heritage, streetscapes and buildings of Greater Bendigo are conserved, restored, celebrated and managed wisely for the longer term’ (Theme 5 Sustainability, Action 5.2). The Cast Iron objects were loaned to the City of Greater Bendigo in 2001 for 50 years until 2051. The Cast Iron conservatory was gifted outright to the City of Greater Bendigo in 2001. The reconstruction of the Cast Iron conservatory in the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, White Hills is a significant and substantial element of the Master Plan for this site’s redevelopment.

Background Information

In 2000 the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) asked for Expressions of Interest for the long term loan of their Cast Iron Collection. The Cast Iron Collection is a collection of architectural and household objects collected by the founding member of the National Trust Victorian chapter, Dr Graeme Robertson. Robertson had a passion for rescuing cast iron from Melbourne demolition sites as well as photographing cast iron architecture in Australia and internationally. The City of Greater Bendigo submitted an Expression of Interest. The Expression of Interest proposed that the Cast Iron Collection would assist with the Council’s vision ‘to create a City of which its citizens are proud’ (Corporate Plan 1999-2002) by:

‘interpreting the ornamentation of historic buildings’;

‘utilising items for moulds to cast new pieces’;

‘enabling replication of lost ornamentation’;

‘incorporating items into exhibits, displays and extensive education courses’; and

‘positioning items in public places’. The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) accepted the Expression of Interest from the City of Greater Bendigo and decided to donate the conservatory outright. The Cast Iron objects were removed from their storage space in Maribyrnong to the storage units at Cleaves Removals in Eaglehawk and then relocated to council storage at the Kennington Shed, 128 Reservoir Road, Strathdale, where they are currently located. The Cast Iron conservatory continued to be stored outside at Werribee Zoo until 2005, when it was removed to Bendigo and stored outside at the Adam Street Depot, where it is currently located.

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Previous Council Decision Date: Agreement by Council to put forward an Expression of Interest. Report advising Council of the successful Expression of Interest in the Cast Iron Collection.

Report

The original intention of the City of Greater Bendigo with the Cast Iron Collection was to have a reference library of cast iron pieces that could assist council staff with the reconstruction of missing elements in Greater Bendigo’s architecture. It was anticipated that this would assist the restoration of the heritage fabric of the magnificent 19th century streetscapes of the city and small towns. However, to put the Cast Iron Collection to this use requires a substantial amount of work to prepare the collection. There is no known history for most of the objects in the Cast Iron Collection, items are in poor condition and only 2 items have any connection to Greater Bendigo. These 2 items are the conservatory which is connected to William Guilfoyle, a Director of the Royal Melbourne Botanic Gardens, who designed Bendigo’s Lake Weeroona and a patent plate possibly manufactured in Australia but purchased for the collection at an antique store in Bendigo. A significance assessment of the Cast Iron Collection was completed by Dr Dannielle Orr, Heritage Planner, as part of the internal consultation process in June 2015. The significance assessment shows that the Cast Iron Collection has a high level of historic and social significance to the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), due to the connection with Graeme Robertson as their founding member. Of the Cast Iron Collection, only the conservatory can be said to have any local historic significance through the Bendigo connection to William Guilfoyle. In order to use the Cast Iron Collection for a reference purpose, appropriate storage and management of the collection would be required and the following actions would have to be undertaken:

an audit to determine the extent and condition of the pieces;

research to determine if other pieces have any relevance to Greater Bendigo; and

drawing up a collection framework to determine how to dispose of pieces that are irrelevant or damaged.

The digitisation of newspaper and photographic collections at a state and national level has revolutionised research into heritage since the Cast Iron Collection was acquired in 2001. Today it is possible to freely view high resolution images of the buildings in Bendigo and some of the smaller towns or research the history of buildings in newspapers. The purpose intended for the Cast Iron Collection is now more easily and efficiently undertaken at a desktop, giving results that are specific to that particular building’s history. Whilst recasting from photographs may be expensive for owners, there are still examples of cast iron elements in situ on Greater Bendigo homes that can be matched accurately and reproduced faithfully for reinstatement.

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For the same level of resources, management and storage required to make the Cast Iron Collection useable, Council would be better served by building up a locally relevant collection from Greater Bendigo examples of cast iron architecture. This report proposes that the City of Greater Bendigo negotiate with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) to return the Cast Iron objects that are currently on loan. This report also proposes that the Cast Iron conservatory be retained in order to action the recommendations of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, White Hills Master Plan. Priority/Importance: The Cast Iron objects are of a low priority to the City of Greater Bendigo. The Cast Iron conservatory will become a high priority when the relevant stage of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, White Hills Master Plan are implemented. Timelines: Discussions with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) should finalise the terms of the return of the Cast Iron objects. Once the terms of the return are agreed, the Cast Iron objects should be removed from the Kennington Shed at 128 Reservoir Road, Strathdale as soon as practicable. A budget bid will be put forward in the 2016/17 financial year to cover the removal costs and any attendant works required, such as an audit of the objects. Risk Analysis: The Cast Iron objects are stacked in crates to ceiling height, other objects are loose at ground level. There is no clear floor space and the stacks are high and precarious. Removal of the Cast Iron objects will present very high risks to people and the plant used to move them and could potentially damage the pieces of the Vahland Drinking Fountain, also stored at this location. If the more accessible items are removed from the Kennington Shed first, such as the Vahland Drinking Fountain, then some of the risk will be eliminated. There will be some noise impact on the community radio organisation Phoenix FM 106.7 FM located in the front of the Kennington Shed. The radio’s management committee should, as a courtesy, be notified of the anticipated noise during 2016 associated with activities related to both the Vahland Drinking Fountain and the Cast Iron objects. A management plan should be drawn up to minimise impact.

Consultation/Communication

Internal Consultation: Officers involved with the Cast Iron Collection were consulted on the potential options for the objects and conservatory, including:

Megan McDougall, Heritage Architect / Advisor (Building & Property)

Dannielle Orr, Heritage Planner (Strategy)

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Brett Martini, Manager (Engineering and Public Space)

Aaron Lindsay, Coordinator (Public Space Design)

Gemma Fennell, Bendigo Botanic Gardens Development Officer (Public Space Design)

Brad Crème, Curator, Bendigo Botanic Gardens, White Hills (Parks & Natural Reserves)

Simon Harrison, Manager (Parks & Natural Reserves) The outcome of internal consultation was the decision to:

retain the Cast Iron conservatory to honour the commitment of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, White Hills Master Plan; and

return the Cast Iron objects to the National Trust of Australia (Victoria). External Consultation: The above internal decision was then presented to the Greater Bendigo Heritage Advisory Committee at the 16 July 2015 meeting. The Committee unanimously supported the return of the entire Cast Iron Collection (both objects and the conservatory) to the National Trust of Australia (Victoria). The Committee also encouraged Council to be timely and expedient with the return of the objects and suggested that a timeframe be established for the removal.

Resource Implications

The return of the Cast Iron objects may have a financial implication for Council. Any ongoing recurrent expenditure required: Removal costs for the Cast Iron objects would be a once-off expense for the 2016/17 financial year. There will be no further or recurrent expenditure associated with the loaned items.

Conclusion

This report proposes that the City of Greater Bendigo return the Cast Iron objects as soon as practicable to the National Trust of Australia (Victoria). The City should negotiate with the National Trust about who will bear the costs of the return. This report also proposes that the Cast Iron conservatory is retained in order to action the recommendations of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, White Hills Master Plan.

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RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to: 1. Retain the Cast Iron conservatory until an additional report on the conservatory is

presented to Council. 2. Return the Cast Iron objects to the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) as soon as

practicable.

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6. LEADERSHIP AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

6.1 NOMINATION FOR A COUNCIL NOMINEE FOR ELECTION TO THE BOARD OF BENDIGO STADIUM LIMITED

Document Information

Author Peter Davies, Manager, Executive Services Responsible Craig Niemann, Chief Executive Officer Officer

Summary/Purpose

The purpose of this report is to ask Council to nominate a councillor as its nominee for election to the Board of Bendigo Stadium Limited (BSL) following the advice that Cr Lisa Ruffell will resign taking effect on the date of the next BSL Annual General Meeting in October.

Policy Context

Council Plan Reference: Council demonstrates good governance and leadership.

Background Information

The Constitution of BSL allows one of the people to be elected to the Board to be nominated by the Council. The nominee must be an eligible member of BSL. The Council will be requested by the BSL Secretary to nominate in writing at least 28 days before the Annual General Meeting to be held in October 2015. In accordance with the Constitution, the name of Council’s nominee will be posted in a conspicuous place in the Stadium for at least 14 days immediately before the election. The nominee of the Council will be elected to office by a majority of eligible members of BSL accepting his or her nomination.

Report

Cr Ruffell currently sits on the BSL Board as Council’s nominee. Cr Ruffell has, however, indicated she plans to resign her position before the BSL Annual General Meeting in October, and so Council will need to nominate a replacement.

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Under the existing rules, if the Council fails or neglects to nominate a person, the retiring nominated member of the Council will be deemed to have been re-nominated unless that person declines to accept re-nomination. If this happens, the position will be treated as a casual vacancy and filled by nominees of the members of BSL. Cr Barry Lyons has expressed an interest in replacing Cr Ruffell and has previously served as a member of the BSL Board. Cr Lyons is an eligible member of BSL and qualifies for election in accordance with the BSL Constitution. No date has yet been fixed for the Annual General Meeting in October. Resource Implications There are no resource implications in Council nominating a person to sit on the BSL Board.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council put forward Cr Lyons as its nominee for election to the BSL Board by the members of BSL at the Annual General Meeting in October 2015 following the advice that Cr Ruffell will resign taking effect at the date of the Annual General Meeting.

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6.2 RECORD OF ASSEMBLIES

Document Information

Author Peter Davies, Manager Executive Services Responsible Craig Niemann, Chief Executive Officer Officer

Summary/Purpose

The purpose of this report is to provide the record of any assembly of Councillors, which has been held since the last Council Meeting, so that it can be recorded in the Minutes of the formal Council Meeting.

Policy Context

Strong leadership to meet future needs and challenges; effective community engagement.

Background Information

The Local Government Act provides a definition of an assembly of Councillors where conflicts of interest must be disclosed. A meeting will be an assembly of Councillors if it considers matters that are likely to be the subject of a Council decision, or, the exercise of a Council delegation and the meeting is: 1. A planned or scheduled meeting that includes at least half the Councillors (5) and a

member of Council staff; or 2. an advisory committee of the Council where one or more Councillors are present. The requirement for reporting provides increased transparency and the opportunity for Councillors to check the record, particularly the declarations of conflict of interest.

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Report

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type

Heritage Advisory Committee

Meeting Date 16 July 2015

Matters discussed 1. Expenditure of Heritage Advisory Committee budget 2. Commemorative activities for Peter Ellis OAM 3. Feedback from Shire of Mitchell Heritage Advisory Committee visit 4. Heritage Act Review 5. Demolitions - Encouragement Pack 6. Annual Review of Terms of Reference 7. Planning update: Amendments, Demolitions and Heritage Restoration Loan Scheme 8. Strategy update: Celebrate Vahland, Graeme Robertson Cast Iron Collection 9. Bendigo Gasworks 10. Heritage Awards 11. Site watch list

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Peter Cox Apology: Cr Mark Weragoda

Staff/ Community Representatives

Ms Megan McDougall Dr Dannielle Orr Mr Bradd Worrell/ Ms Helen Ashby Mr David Bannear Mr Laurie Brown Mr Jordan Grenfell Dr Gary Hill Dr Di Smith Mr Darren Wright Apologies: Ms Emma Bryant Mr Trevor Budge/ Ms Elaine Doling Ms Kay MacGregor Mr Rod Spitty Mr Calum Walker

Conflict of Interest disclosures

Matter No.

Councillor/officer making disclosure Councillor/officer left meeting

Nil

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Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type

Councillors' Forum

Meeting Date 22 July 2015

Matters discussed 1. Presentation on Bendigo Stadium 2. Partnership Grants 3. Road Management Plan 4. Big Hill Primary School 5. Caravans and motor homes 6. Writers Festival 7. Family violence 8. Malone Park 9. Chinese Arch 10. Funeral 11. Payment of contractors - Ulumbarra Theatre 12. Federal and State grants 13. Aquatic strategy 14. Tom Flood Sports Centre 15. Heathcote bus service 16. Women Showing the Way 17. Friends of Kennington Reservoir 18. Use of waiting room and business foyer screens for Promotion 19. Maubisse deputation 20. Early years' facilities 21. Wellsford Estate 22. Review of meeting

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Peter Cox Cr Rod Campbell Cr Elise Chapman Cr Rod Fyffe Cr Helen Leach Cr Barry Lyons Cr Lisa Ruffell Cr Mark Weragoda Cr James Williams

Staff/ Community Representatives

Mr Craig Niemann Ms Pauline Gordon Ms Marg Allan Ms Prue Mansfield Ms Rachelle Quattrocchi Mr Peter Davies Mrs Alison Campbell Apologies: Mr Stan Liacos Mr Darren Fuzzard

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Conflict of Interest disclosures

Matter No.

Councillor/officer making disclosure Councillor/officer left meeting

Nil

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type

Councillors' Forum

Meeting Date 29 July 2015

Matters discussed 1. La Trobe University Master Plan 2. White Hills Investigation 3. Victorian Floodplain Management Strategy 4. Special Charge Scheme for Guys Hill Road Drainage Project 5. Wellsford Estate 6. Graffiti wall 7. Flooding in Condon Street 8. Primary schools 9. Motorhome parking 10. Marong SES 11. Malone Park 12. Leadership 13. Economic Development roundtables 14. Rural Strategy 15. CEO Performance Review 16. Community Engagement Workshop 17. Customer Request Satisfaction Survey 18. Review of draft Ordinary Meeting agenda 19. Rural Exhibition Centre 20. Kerbside access 21. Code of Conduct 22. Youth Action Group 23. Parking - Kangaroo Flat station 24. Council Plan and Budget 25. Review of meeting 26. Economic Development Strategy

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors C Peter Cox Cr Rod Campbell Cr Elise Chapman Cr Rod Fyffe Cr Helen Leach Cr Barry Lyons Cr Mark Weragoda Cr James Williams Apology: Cr Lisa Ruffell

Staff/ Community

Mr Craig Niemann Ms Pauline Gordon

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Representatives Ms Prue Mansfield Mr Stan Liacos Mr Darren Fuzzard Mr Peter Davies Mrs Alison Campbell Apology: Ms Marg Allan

Conflict of Interest disclosures

Matter No.

Councillor/officer making disclosure Councillor/officer left meeting

Nil

RECOMMENDATION

That Council endorse the record of assemblies of Councillors as outlined in this report.

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6.3 CONTRACTS AWARDED UNDER DELEGATION

Document Information

Author Leeanne Taig, Contract Support Administrator, Contract & Project Coordination Unit

Responsible Marg Allan, Director Organisation Support Director

Summary/Purpose

The purpose of this report is to provide information on contracts recently awarded under delegation.

Policy Context

Delivery of programs, projects and services that respond to community needs.

Report

RECOMMENDATION

That the contracts awarded under delegation, as outlined in this report, be acknowledged by Council.

Contract No Project Successful Contractor Value

(GST Excl) Delegated

Officer Date Signed

Service Contracts

CT000163

EPA Approved Environmental Auditors

Coffey Environments Pty Ltd

GHD Pty Ltd

Tonkin Taylor Pty Ltd

URS Australia Pty Ltd

Schedule of Rates

Rachelle Quattrocchi – Acting Director

22 July 2015

Current annual Council Budget for the goods/services contracted via this schedule of rates is $158,600.00 excluding GST

CT000183

Quality Management System Auditing Services

SGS Australia Pty Ltd Schedule of

Rates

Rachelle Quattrocchi – Acting Director

23 July 2015

Current annual Council Budget for the goods/services contracted via this schedule of rates is $24,403.50 excluding GST

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7. URGENT BUSINESS

Nil.

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8. NOTICES OF MOTION

8.1 NOTICE OF MOTION

CR HELEN LEACH

That Councillors resolve to meet with Mr Don McKinnon and representatives of the Kangaroo Flat Leisure Centre Group to discuss the advantages of the new revised plans for the retention of the Leisure Centre.

Officer comment (Stan Liacos, Director City Futures and Pauline Gordon, Director Community Wellbeing): It is Council’s prerogative to meet with whomever they collectively choose to meet with. If Council determines to meet once again with Mr McKinnon and others on this matter then at very least it is important to reiterate a range of points for Council to recall including the following:

- Council made a formalised determination to proceed with Aquatic Centre

development at its meeting of 24 June 2015;

- Council issued a planning permit for the Aquatic Centre development (it did this last

year after considerable statutory public consultation);

- Council formally endorsed and released its designs at various stages of public

consultation and engagement in 2013 and 2014 (this included the rationale for the removal of the Hall on the reserve);

- Council’s decision-making was made after several years of careful and sequential

strategic planning and staged analysis, public consultation and political advocacy, design and planning processes, Community Reference Group deliberations, business modelling, and funding considerations; and

- Council management has already acted on Council’s “go ahead” resolution of 24 June

2015 including formally advising the Victorian Government of Council’s intention to proceed with the project, drafting a Funding Agreement Contract with the Victorian Government binding its substantive financial contribution of half/$15,000,000 towards the project, and in continuing to assist the final few users of the Browning Street Hall successfully relocate to alternative premises (note: there are no more forward bookings at the Hall and the YMCA has ceased operating from the premises).

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It is acknowledged that Mr McKinnon has arranged for an alternative design of the Aquatic Centre development. Arranging this and promoting it is his prerogative. The focus of his design is the retention of the Hall on the site, however, the design does not take account of the obvious desirability of designing for an efficient and functional Aquatic Centre. There are many and varied major disadvantages and cautionary aspects worthy of note with Mr McKinnon’s alternative design. These include the following:

- The alternative design does not take account of mandatory planning scheme

considerations such as statutory car parking requirements and environment/creek flood overlays which among other things once accounted for do not permit the retention of the existing sporting oval and other parkland;

- The alternative design does not take account of essential/desirable Building Code

requirements concerning Design for Universal Access etc. The Council approved design had accessibility as a very significant consideration;

- Because the alternative proposal is not designed from an Aquatic Centre / Wellbeing

Centre client perspective as such, it would pose several major operational limitations that would prevent it from operating efficiently and successfully in the future (e.g. undesirable car parking supply and location, residential area encroachment, inadequate provision for plant room loading and truck movements, undesirable sight lines, site orientation and building juxtaposition, a lack of notable easy-to-access street address and presence etc.;

- The alternative design would trigger the need to recommence design, planning,

engineering and community engagement processes which would set back the project between one and two years (depending on planning permit processes) at considerable extra financial cost and community and government frustration;

- Implementation of the alternative site designs would add an additional estimated

$3million - $4million to overall project cost (note: the need to recommence planning, design and engineering work, construction cost escalation, cost of Hall upgrade, cost of extra car parking construction etc. – all of which were discussed and analysed in the last major report to Council on this matter and in earlier reports).

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9. COUNCILLORS' REPORTS

10. MAYOR'S REPORT

11. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT

12. CONFIDENTIAL (SECTION 89) REPORTS

12.1 Confidential Report in accordance with Section 89(2)(d) and (e) of the Local Government Act 1989, relating to a contractual matter and proposed development.

RECOMMENDATION That the meeting be closed to the public to consider a report in accordance with Section 89(2)(d) and (e) of the Local Government 1989, as amended, relating to a contractual matter and proposed development.