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Wonthaggi to expand north-east with plan approved to unlock 444 hectares for residential development to accommodate over 12,000 people

Bass Coast Shire Council approved the Wonthaggi North-East expansion, doubling the town's size, unlocking 444 hectares for development. The plan includes housing, jobs, and amenities, fostering regional growth.

By news@gippsland - 18th January 2024 - Back to News

Bass Coast Shire Council today received the green light for the growth of Wonthaggi North-East, which will pave the way for new homes for more than 12,000 people. The Wonthaggi North-East Precinct Structure Plan will double the size of Wonthaggi and expand the business and industry precinct to provide major investment and new jobs for the region. The state government gazetted the plan today, unlocking 444 hectares of residential land for development. Over 5000 homes are expected to be established in the precinct over the next 30-50 years.

Wonthaggi North-East expansion transforms land for residential and community use, while also unlocking 60 hectares for commercial-industrial use, generating thousands of jobs

Region transformation project

Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Clare Le Serve said the development would provide much needed affordable housing options, employment opportunities and community amenities to cater for the rising Bass Coast population. "This major project is a game-changer that will unlock huge opportunities for the region and guide the development of a new growth area in Wonthaggi for future generations," Cr Le Serve said.

"The area will undergo a full transition of land use into a large-scale residential development and community infrastructure. This will allow for a considerable population increase and provide for a range of land size options to suit all housing needs."

"The project reinforces Wonthaggi's role as a regional centre as well as delivering community facilities, a primary school, local parks, over 90 hectares of open space, trails and a new sports reserve for residents. The area will be ready to fully take advantage of the opportunities presented in proximity to the metropolitan area and the surrounding Gippsland region," Cr Le Serve said.

Employment hub expansion

Cr Le Serve said the project would also open up over 60 hectares of commercial and industrial land creating 2,940 jobs over the life of the plan. "It will provide employment opportunities by allowing commercial and industrial businesses to establish on the Bass Highway."

"The plan will ensure that new communities are integrated with the existing town through road connections and tree-lined streets. The extensive pathway network will connect residents to parks, sporting and community facilities, bushland, the existing township and the Bass Coast Rail Trail."

The Wonthaggi North-East Precinct Structure Plan was identified as a project on the Victorian Planning Authority's (VPA) Fast Track Program. Wonthaggi has seen significant growth in the last five years, with Victoria's COVID lockdown period being a major contributing factor to those favouring alternative regional living. Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale said, "Wonthaggi is growing, and these new plans will provide much needed new homes as well as a new primary school, sporting facilities, a commercial area and green spaces to maximise livability and connectivity."

Pictures from Bass Coast Shire website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com