Brad Hogan, Pastoria East
I write in opposition to Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s proposed planning amendments for Significant Landscape classification affecting most rural properties in the shire. My objections are as follows:
1. The shire has not involved the rural community in preservation of the environment and seeks instead to force restrictions on the farming community without justification or good reason.
2. This policy in effect says that the Shire regards the rural community as cowboys to be brought into line by the force of legislation.
3. We fail to see what advantage these proposed restrictions will have to our landscapes. What will they achieve? How will these restrictions make a meaningful impact on our landscape?
4. The Shire must detail the impact that the proposal would have on the planning department and the cost to the ratepayers.
5. These proposals, if endorsed, will only add to the administrative burden on the farming community.
The shire states that the overlay will not prohibit development. It will however significantly frustrate development. You won’t be able to build a chook shed or modify an existing building without applying for a planning permit, paying a fee and standing in line.
6. There are currently sufficient powers under the current planning scheme.
7. These proposals are unworkable and will only be a farce. A better way is for the Shire to sponsor meetings with the farming communities to discuss key performance areas and work WITH these communities to achieve significant outcomes for our significant landscapes.
