The land known as the Broadford Pine Plantation is owned by the Victorian Government, has a public use zone and is currently a non-maintained natural overgrown space.
Under the proposed plan, 50 per cent of the pine plantation would become natural public open space for use by the local community. It would be funded by the other 50 per cent becoming a residential development.
It is estimated about 40 residential lots will generate enough revenue to fund the necessary infrastructure requirements and still leave enough profit margin for developers to be interested in the project.
Broadford resident Adrian Reeders started the petition and said he was disappointed the land was being considered for residential development
“Council have said previously that they want to keep a country feel in Broadford. Putting small blocks on there is not in keeping with that,” he said.
“I live right across from the land and am interested in keeping it natural and a home for wildlife.”
Fellow resident Jenine Heller said the area was a natural play space for children and should be kept that way.
“There is such a large part of the community that uses it. We build these nature playgrounds for kids but we tear down this to build something man-made,” she said.
“I’m disappointed to see the green space would potentially become tiny little Melbourne-sized blocks.
“Public land being sold off for something we don’t want is disappointing. We know we need development in the area, but we love the country feel we have. To plonk high-density housing there would be disappointing and change the feel.
“The area does need some attention, but with a little work and help from the community, we can improve it.”
Mitchell Shire Mayor David Lowe said the draft Broadford Structure Plan was a detailed plan to guide Broadford’s future development and was now out for public consultation.
“We have a number of key strategies identified inside the draft plan, such as areas for residential growth, an employment precinct and proposed upgrades to the town centre,” he said.
“The draft plan is a proactive approach to accommodating the future population growth of Broadford.
“As with any plan of this nature, we welcome all feedback from our community. We have been working in consultation with the Broadford community since 2018 drafting this plan and its various components.”
Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning (DELWP) land and built environment Hume regional manager John Downs said DELWP recently received Mitchell Shire Council’s Draft Broadford Structure Plan and was reviewing the document to provide comment.
“We will continue to work with Mitchell Shire Council to explore future management options for the site,” he said.
“Forest Fire Management Victoria conducts annual fuel management activities at the site, which includes mowing, slashing and mulching of fire breaks and tracks to reduce the risk to the community.”
To provide input, visit engagingmitchellshire.com/broadford3658 and Mr Reeders’ petition is available at bit.ly/2Rl25I3
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