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A plan to help shape Bushfield and Woodford over the next 20 years is approaching completion, with the community invited to have their say on the draft document.
The Bushfield-Woodford Strategic Framework Plan aims to provide a long-term vision and framework to guide land use and manage future growth.
The draft plan supports limited and well-managed growth while protecting the rural village character of Bushfield and Woodford as well as the natural environment.
Other priorities include improving road safety, creating more walking and cycling connections, supporting community facilities and working towards a long-term solution for wastewater management.
Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain said the plan had been shaped by community input at various stages of its development.
“Thank you to everyone who has shared their ideas and feedback to help get the plan to this point,” he said.
“We had really good engagement from people, and I think that shows just how much the community values all of the things that make living in Woodford and Bushfield so special.
“And that’s why this is such an important plan, because we want to make sure future growth happens in a way that protects what people value about the area."
Cr Blain said that before Council could finalise the plan, important areas of work needed to be completed including a bushfire assessment, onsite wastewater management and consideration of new State Government guidelines on how the boundaries of regional towns should be managed.
“With Council adopting the Onsite Wastewater Management Plan in July, we’re now in a position to finalise the Bushfield-Woodford Strategic Framework Plan," he said.
“There has already been considerable valuable community input into the plan, and what we’re looking to do now is have one final check with the community before Council considers adopting the plan later this year.”
Visit www.yoursaywarrnambool.com.au to read the draft plan and share your feedback. Hard copies are also available at the Civic Centre, 25 Liebig Street.
Feedback can also be provided in person at the Warrnambool Library on Wednesday September 9 from 11am to 1pm.
Submissions close on September 27.