Warrnambool City Council will develop a Strategic Framework Plan for Bushfield and Woodford.
The plan will focus on maintaining the appeal of Bushfield-Woodford while addressing challenges including population growth and wastewater management.
“Bushfield and Woodford offer a unique lifestyle opportunity just minutes from the CBD of Warrnambool,” Mayor Cr Vicki Jellie said.
“The townships are in very attractive settings and are increasingly popular among those seeking a home situated in an area with rolling hills, rural views and easy access to the Merri River.
“The plan will help ensure its growing popularity is managed over the next 20 to 25 years in a way that conserves all the area’s great features.”
|
Key 2021 Census statistics |
Bushfield |
Woodford |
|
Population |
596 |
436 |
|
Male |
51.6% |
50.2% |
|
Female |
48.4% |
49.8% |
|
Median age |
43 |
39 |
|
Families |
174 |
123 |
|
Private dwellings |
206 |
141 |
|
Average number of people per household |
3 |
3.2 |
|
Vehicles per dwelling |
3 |
2.7 |
A settlement boundary currently defines the allowable extent of urban use and development for Bushfield-Woodford. An earlier forecast suggested about 100 new dwellings would be needed in the townships between 2016 and 2036.
The land that could be developed in Bushfield-Woodford is zoned either Low Density Residential Zone or Rural Living Zone.
This zoning regime has been in place since 1998 and lacks detail to guide land use and development.
“We know the most significant challenge and constraint facing Bushfield-Woodford is wastewater management,” Cr Jellie said.
“The area is without a reticulated wastewater treatment system and the number of houses per square kilometre is identified as being at a threshold point where any additional on-site systems could impact on groundwater, waterways, and public health.”
The extent of the pollution problems arising from existing septic systems within the Bushfield-Woodford settlement boundary is not well documented and Council is embarking on a program to inspect high-risk on-site treatment systems.
“A strategic framework plan for Bushfield-Woodford will set the stage for sustainable residential development and population growth.
“Council has also received requests from the community to start planning for a new community hub, which provides a multi-purpose space for a variety of user groups.
“The Strategic Framework Plan will identify areas suitable for infrastructure such as a community hub.
“Over coming months Bushfield-Woodford residents will have opportunities to be involved in the development of the plan and we’ll have announcements about this in the near future.”