The Strathbogie community expressed their desire for clear directions on how land will be used in the future. As outlined in the Council Plan 2021-2025, Strathbogie Shire Council is developing two new strategies to guide land use planning decisions within the Strathbogie municipality over the next 15 to 30 years: the Rural Residential and Land Use Strategy (RRLUS) and the Urban Growth Strategy (UGS).
Working with Council and planning consultants, Capire developed an Engagement Strategy and broad engagement materials, including promotional items and drop-in boards. Next, we planned, designed, facilitated and reported on a Councillor workshop and Community Panel made up of about 20 community members.
The Community Panel gained an understanding of the RRLUS and UGS, including proposed principles, broad engagement feedback and proposed changes. They then refined the proposed principles, developed recommendations for townships, and provided additional recommendations, including locations for the Rural Living Zone.
The Community Panel sessions increased members’ understanding not only of the RRLUS and UGS, but also Council’s role in land use planning, the broader challenges impacting land use planning, and the decisions within Council’s control and influence.