Structure Plan FAQs
What is a structure plan?
A structure plan is a long-term land use plan that will guide how a town will develop and change over time. It is a directional document that provides guidance on how to manage and facilitate change within a town or a settlement.
A structure plan is created within the context of the broader land use planning system and as such they must also give effect to the policies and objectives set out in state, regional, and local policy.
A structure plan will include a vision along with strategies and actions to achieve the vision. This will include how land can be used, what facilities and infrastructure is required to support the town and how challenges and opportunities can be addressed.
A structure plan is not a comprehensive list of public works commitments or a detailed infrastructure plan, but provides the strategic background for this kind of subsequent detailed project work.
Why do we need a structure plan?
Omeo and Swifts Creek are each unique and important settlements within the Shire of East Gippsland. They provide access to key services as well as employment, recreation and housing opportunities. Any growth within the towns needs to be planned and considered to ensure their ongoing success.
The structure plans will consider how these towns can take advantages of business and tourism opportunities and respond to a variety of challenges including employment transition, demographic changes and housing supply.
The structure plans will ensure that any changes are well considered and planned to maintain and enhance the individual towns character and vibrance.
How will the structure plans be developed?
The structure plans will be developed in consultation with community members and there will be a range of opportunities to be involved in the process.
A background paper has been developed which outlines all the research and data for each town. These papers include economic and residential development drivers, environmental and infrastructure considerations and community desires and expectations. This paper will provide the foundation for the development of the structure plan.
A draft structure plan for each town has been developed and are available for community comments.
The final structure plan will be developed after consideration of community comments and will be presented to council for formal adoption.
Is the structure plan different to the district place plan?
The Omeo Structure Plan is a spatial land use plan and serves a different purpose to the Omeo District Place Plan. The District Place Plan is currently being developed by Council to guide its community health and well-being services. Where necessary, the Structure Plan will align with the District Place Plan directions.