Residents are invited to have their say on a Draft Nillumbik Housing Strategy.
The draft strategy proposes a 15-year plan, to be used by Nillumbik Shire Council to ensure all current and future residents have access to housing appropriate to their needs, and that enhances the amenity and unique character of Nillumbik.
Councillors endorsed the draft strategy for community consultation at its Ordinary Council Meeting on 26 May with consultation on the draft starting Monday 1 June. Feedback is invited until Monday 29 June 2020.
Nillumbik Mayor Karen Egan said the draft strategy aimed to ensure the housing needs of the Shire were met now and into the future.
“This strategy outlines a range of housing for all of our residents, including our ageing population and those with special needs,” Cr Egan said.
“But, importantly, it also seeks to protect the Shire’s valued rural and neighbourhood characteristics and unique green wedge for future generations.
“Significant consolidation of housing is only proposed in the Eltham and Diamond Creek Major Activity Centres, where Council is expected by State Government policy to consolidate housing due to the easy, walkable access in these centres to shops, public transport and services.
“I encourage the community to provide feedback on this critical strategy.”
The Draft Nillumbik Housing Strategy has been informed by the Housing Strategy Discussion Paper, which went out for public consultation in March 2020.
In the face of COVID-19 restrictions, Council has worked to maximise consultation opportunities in this next phase.
Residents will be able to view the document at Council’s website and provide feedback.
A series of online question-and-answer sessions with Council officers will be offered over the month of June. Bookings will be available at .
Residents without online access will be able to speak with officers by phone and post their submissions to Council.
Submissions to the draft strategy will be considered at a Future Nillumbik Committee meeting in early August, and subject to changes informed through consultation, Council will consider adopting the Nillumbik Housing Strategy at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 25 August 2020.
