It didn’t make the budget but now Macedon Ranges Shire Council has found unspent funds for a Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve master plan.
Last week, councillors agreed to allocate leftover Community Funding Scheme funds of $37,779.27 to the master plan project.
The current plan for the reserve is more than 16 years old and no longer meets community standards.
A new master plan aims to create a clear vision and direction for future development, and will enable advocacy for future funding opportunities.
The project came just days after the Victorian Government approved controversial development for Amess Road that will double the town’s population.
Within the Amess Road Precinct Structure Plan’s approval is a condition for development contribution funds to go towards the reserve’s upgrades.
Riddells Creek is slated to grow by 63 per cent within the next two decades, according to MRSC data.
Riddells Creek Planning Group member Aaron Goldsworthy said the project was important for the town.
“Proactive planning and funding of infrastructure by the state and local government will be critical for Riddells Creek now that Amess Road has been approved,” he said.
“Riddell will experience [huge growth] in the coming decade. This must be matched by corresponding infrastructure and services.”
It is expected the Riddells Creek Reserve master plan will be completed within the 2025-26 financial year.
