Greater Shepparton City Council voted at its May meeting to release the Draft Toolamba Structure Plan 2025 for public consultation.
The motion, put forward by Cr Geoff Akers and seconded by Cr Kieron Eddy, was carried unopposed.
“Toolamba’s been identified for potential growth for nearly two decades,” Cr Akers said.
Toolamba’s potential growth is linked to its proximity to the southern interchange of the proposed Shepparton Bypass.
Council adopted the Toolamba Growth Plan in 2020, to manage any development with a landowner-led precinct structure plan.
However, planning scheme amendments to implement growth plans were reviewed by a planning panel appointed by the Victorian planning minister, which found the amendments lacked sufficient strategic justification.
To address issues raised by the panel, the Department of Transport and Planning undertook development of a structure plan for Toolamba and Old Toolamba.
Council secured funding through the department’s Regional Planning Hub program, and consultancy Plan2Place was chosen to prepare the plan.
The draft structure plan draws from previous work, and its purpose is to plan a framework for the town’s future development and design.
The draft plan recommended future development needed to be supported by sewerage infrastructure, and should be focused on Toolamba over Old Toolamba.
Environmental risks of flooding and bushfire were also identified as critical planning factors.
Preliminary information sessions have been held, giving the community the opportunity to put forward any ideas or comments, and to ensure input into the development of the Toolamba Growth Plan wasn’t lost.
Feedback showed support for growth, more diverse housing, mains sewerage and additional local services, while retaining the townships’ natural appeal.
Comments on the draft structure plan will help inform the final version, alongside feedback from relevant agencies.
The Draft Toolamba Structure Plan 2025 will be out for public consultation for six weeks from June 13 to July 25.
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