Planning: our future

In this second last week of our planning series we look at planning from both an objector and developers’ perspective, battles, failures and controversies.

VCAT hall of fame

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) is the state body that makes rulings on planning disputes, aiming to find common ground between objectors, developers and the shire.
There are numerous examples over the past decade of VCAT battles, showing developers often but don’t always win, and ultimately – and critically – VCAT is guided by our local policies.

CARAVAN PARK

For five consecutive years, a controversial camping and caravan park has been proposed at Forrest Caves, with VCAT set to hand down its findings any time early this year.

Called Surf Park Phillip Island, the plans propose 207 camp sites – including 27 drive through caravan sites, 37 large camp sites and 114 tent sites – as well as a reception building, two amenities blocks, and caretakers residence.

Under the plans, the 8ha site would have 18 car parks, as well as parking for vehicles at each camp site, with a left and right turn lane land at the entrance to Phillip Island Road.

The plans received 59 objections and one submission in support, and once again went to VCAT for a five-day hearing in October last year.

Shire planning officers recommended refusal of the plans because they contravene state and local planning policies.

Read more:

Rhyll's 13 year fight

Rock festival

Overdevelopment #1

Overdevelopment #2

Rejected