More than 3000 submissions received for Surf Coast policy, Spring Creek town boundary

More than 3000 submissions have been received in response to a proposed Surf Coast planning policy, which could see Spring Creek kept as a “green break”, or developed into housing. This is what the majority had to say.

MORE than 3000 submissions have been received in response to a proposed Surf Coast planning policy which is set to determine future development at Spring Creek.

A total of 3159 submissions were lodged to The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) during a consultation process which ran from November to January.

The draft Surf Coast Statement of Planning Policy (SPP) proposes two options for potential development near the Torquay-Jan Juc town boundary as part of the Distinctive Areas and Landscapes project.

DELWP documents state the first option would designate the Spring Creek valley for “low-density ecologically sustainable development”, about 1km west of Duffields Road.

The second would instead fix the town boundary at the road, leaving a “green break” between Torquay and Bellbrae, protecting the area from “urban encroachment”.

An analysis by the Geelong Advertiser reveals that a majority of respondents were in favour of option two, with less than 50 of the first 2000 submissions expressing their support for option one.

Spring Creek looking towards Duffields Road and Jan Juc. Picture: Alan Barber

Submitters in support of option two include musician Xavier Rudd who performed at 2009 ‘Red Rally’ which opposed previous plans to develop the valley.

Mr Rudd wrote in his submission that the issue surrounding development in the valley “shouldn’t have come up again”.

South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman also demonstrated his “enthusiastic support” for option two in his submission, claiming development would put “thousands of homes” into the valley, and damage the environment and threaten “precious” native species.

“As a candidate and representative for this area I have had thousands of conversations over the past few years and they have been unanimous – Spring Creek should be protected and the values and character of the Surf Coast should be preserved,” Mr Cheeseman said.

“As a local resident I completely oppose all uncharacteristic and excessive developments which burden the Surf Coast and are opposed by the community.”

Objectors opposing the development of Spring Creek. Picture: Alan Barber

Corangamite MP Libby Coker also stated her “firm” opposition to development of the valley.

“This is my longstanding view and one that was formed during my time as a Surf Coast councillor and mayor,” Ms Coker wrote.

“A protected settlement boundary must be applied at Duffields Road and extend to the to the Bellbrae township. It should be retained as rural land, not be cut up for residential development.”

A committee will hold a four-to-six week public hearing to discuss the submissions from March 15.

DAL standing advisory committee chair Kathy Mitchell said the committee may limit the time of parties and submitters seeking to be heard.

“In this regard, the committee notes the multiple submissions received in support of option two,” Ms Mitchell said.

“It would be useful if those submitters were able to speak as one voice through an appropriate community representatives.

“The committee is guided by the veracity of issues raised in submissions, not the number of times it is raised.”

The final SPP, set to be determined later this year, will include one option for a protected Torquay-Jan Juc town boundary which will be implemented through the planning scheme.

Originally published as More than 3000 submissions received for Surf Coast policy, Spring Creek town boundary