By XAVIER SMERDON
WYNDHAM Council is hoping to protect important natural and landscape features throughout the municipality from development.
The council recently adopted new Landscape Context Guidelines which a spokesperson said was “key to the future planning of Wyndham’s growth fronts and ensuring the municipality is not viewed as a ‘blank canvas’ for development”.
Councillor Peter Gibbons said the guidelines made recommendations for protection of waterways and wetlands, diverse habitats, special places and landscapes, habitat corridors and views.
“Wyndham’s distinctive landscape is rapidly changing and if nothing is put in place to protect our natural and landscape assets, we are in danger of losing our identity and becoming a city with no sense of character,” Cr Gibbons said.
“The Werribee River, Lollypop Creek, Skeleton Creek, Black Forest Swamp, Truganina Hall and township are among the sites of significance listed in the guidelines which must be maintained for current and future generations.”
Cr Gibbons said retaining green spaces would create more liveable suburbs.
“Protection and enhancement of our waterways, biodiversity sites and other features identified in the guidelines will improve the community’s appreciation and understanding of our natural environment,” he said.
“The guidelines are crucial and will help ensure Wyndham’s growth is distinctive by retaining our own unique landscape character and sense of place. They will assist the council, other authorities and developers when preparing precinct structure plans, planning schemes and development proposals.”
For more information on the Landscape Context Guidelines phone Wyndham Council on 9742 0777 or visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au
