Thousands of homes and, in turn, the potential creation of thousands of jobs are up for discussion among Shepparton residents.
The Allan Labor Government and Greater Shepparton City Council are inviting the community to have their say on the Victorian Planning Authority’s newly drafted Shepparton South East Precinct Structure Plan.
The plan is designed to provide much-needed land for housing, community infrastructure and jobs, and to strengthen Shepparton’s place as a centre for regional growth in Victoria over the next 20 years.
Engagement has kicked off in Shepparton to understand the community’s priorities for the precinct, with consultation closing on Friday, March 15.
The proposed plan will provide land for up to 2500 homes to accommodate a population of more than 6000 across the estimated 385-hectare area.
Shepparton South East is one of 21 priority projects identified to deliver more than 60,000 homes and 60,000 jobs across Victoria as part of the Allan Labor Government’s Housing Statement.
Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said the government is committed to building 152,000 homes over the next decade to address regional Victoria’s lack of affordable housing.
“We know it’s hard to find affordable housing in regional Victoria,” she said.
“We’ll work with the community and council to develop a shared plan to manage the future development of land in the Shepparton South East Precinct.”
State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes encouraged the Shepparton community to provide their feedback to ensure their priorities are considered during development.
She believes the amassed response will help create a better future for Shepparton and its residents.
The Shepparton community can share their thoughts and opinions about the Shepparton South East Precinct Structure Plan by completing the online submission form via https://engage.vic.gov.au/sheppartonsoutheast
The Victorian Planning Authority has also organised a pop-up event at the Shepparton Marketplace, 110 Benalla Rd, Shepparton, on Thursday, March 7, from 2pm to 5pm.
This is an opportunity for Shepparton residents to speak with representatives in person, obtain maps and fact sheets, and ask questions.