Alexandra Falls
CONTROLLING regional growth and maintaining accessibility and services for residents are among points raised in the Mitchell Shire Council’s 2020 discussion plan.
Released on April 30, the discussion plan is a draft of the official 2020 plan, which aims to identify issues the Mitchell Shire will face as a significant growth corridor in the next decade.
Mayor Graeme Coppel said the 2020 plan is a vital document, one that addresses the municipal strategy statement for the shire.
He said the reports will also allow the community to have some input to the rapid development taking place in the area.
“The Mitchell 2020 means we as a community can say ‘this is who we are, this is what we are and please plan to that’,” Mr Coppel said.
The 2020 vision for the Mitchell Shire says that council hopes to continue to protect the shire’s country lifestyle and distinct townships in a time of rapid growth in the region.
“There really is a powerful drive to stay rural and the 2020 plan will tell organisations that are looking at working with us what the community wants,” Mr Coppel said.
Council hopes to ensure each town remains distinct by creating defined boundaries around the towns to combat the anticipated growth, particularly in Wallan and Kilmore.
In addition, living outside nominated settlements and new development housing will be strongly discouraged.
Accessibility and transport also remains an important issue with the plan, stating that railways will be promoted as the best transport option for residents.
Council plans to increase rail stations in the Mitchell Shire and improve frequently-used existing stations such as Kilmore and Wallan.
The road networks are also planned to be enhanced to adapt to capacity, particularly the Northern Highway.
The discussion plan has a final stage of consultation before the official 2020 plan is finalised and presented to council in June.
Mayor Graeme Coppel said all residents should look through the document, which can be found on council’s website, and participate in community forums with their opinions and suggestions.
Speak Out Sessions have been organised for residents in Beveridge, Wallan, Wandong, Kilmore, Broadford and Seymour on May 28.
These sessions will be the final chance for residents to have an open forum discussion of the 2020 plan before the documents are formalised and the plan presented to council.
For more details contact 5634 6359 or visit the Mitchell Shire website at <www.mitchellshire.vic.gov.au>.






