Proposed Rezoning Generates Interest

Nearly 400 submissions were received when Amendment C26, which included the proposed rezoning of Nancarrow Park land to build aged care residential units for older people next to the Kerang District Health Service, was exhibited for public comment late last year. 

At its ordinary Council meeting Wednesday 15 February Gannawarra Shire Council will formally consider the submissions received.  As submissions were both in favour of and against the proposed rezoning, the options are for Council to decide whether to refer the submissions to an independent Panel which would be appointed by the Minister for Planning or to abandon the amendment.  In these types of cases it would be usual practice for Council to make the referral to a Panel.

The purpose of a Panel is to consider the submissions, and to hear from anyone who has made a submission and wishes to present it in person to the Panel.  As a submitter there is no need to present in person, especially if there are many similar submissions, because the Panel will consider every submission whether the submitter presents it in person or not.  The Panel will also hear from Council officers, the proponent which in this case is the Kerang District Health, and relevant public and servicing authorities.

The Panel members are appointed by the Minister for Planning and usually include two or three members who are experienced in planning, land use, residential development and the like.  

Should the referral be made, the Panel will make its report and recommendations to Council, which will consider the matter again.  Council may then decide whether or not to support the amendment and the rezoning of Nancarrow Park.  This decision is not likely to be made before about the middle of 2012.

Date: 30 January 2012

Media contact: Rosanne Kava T. 03 5450 9333 M. 0427 509 349

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