Posted 28/1/06

Please note:  MRRA has added red emphasis

FROM THE MINISTER FOR PLANNING

DATE: Friday, January 13, 2006

YARRA PROTECTED UNDER STONNINGTON PLANNING CHANGE

Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River will be protected from inappropriate development under interim planning controls for Stonnington approved by the Minister for Planning, Rob Hulls.

Prahran MP Tony Lupton who called for the urgent approval of the amendment to the Stonnington Planning Scheme, said the interim controls would ensure the river retained the aesthetic and environmental qualities that made it a special feature of Melbourne’s urban landscape.

“Strong planning policies are needed that reflect the community’s desire to preserve the unique character of the Yarra River and the Yarra River corridor. Users of the Yarra River will welcome these new controls,” Mr Lupton said.

Mr Hulls said the controls would protect a section of the river east of Grange Road in Toorak in line with recommendations in a review of policies and controls for the Yarra River announced last year.

“The Bracks Government is working to ensure that the things we love about Melbourne continue to be protected and preserved,” he said. “The amendment provides design guidelines for development along the Yarra, and gives Stonnington stronger interim controls until permanent controls can be applied.”

The Yarra River flows through nine municipalities and is subject to nine different sets of planning controls. The report from the Review of Policies and Controls for the Yarra River Corridor: Punt Road to Bourke Road, lays the foundation for a consistent planning scheme that removes the risk of ad hoc development.

“Stonnington City Council requested interim controls for an area identified in the report as a high priority for protection due to its significant landscape and environmental values, and its increasing exposure to development pressure,” Mr Hulls said.

“Like many parts of the Yarra River, rising demand for riverside living has increased the pressure for development. In order to manage this pressure, we need to move ahead as quickly as possible to update and clarify planning controls.”