Distinctive Area and Landscape Planning Policy

Following the declaration of the Surf Coast as a Distinctive Area and Landscape, DELWP sought to better protect the region’s landscapes, environment and lifestyle. To do this they developed a Statement of Planning Policy with the Surf Coast Shire Council, the City of Greater Geelong, and the Wadawurrung People.

Before the policy could be finalised, Capire was engaged to attain community input on seven policy domains:

• landscape
• environment and biodiversity
• risk and resilience
• Aboriginal cultural heritage
• post-contact heritage
• economy and infrastructure
• settlement.

Capire designed and delivered two phases of online and face-to-face engagement activities with 2493 participants. As well as public engagement, Capire included Responsible Public Entities and State Government stakeholders. Phase 1 invited participants to share what they valued most about the Surf Coast and their vision for the future of the area. Phase 2 sought feedback on a series of draft vision statements.

The feedback was used when finalising the Statement of Planning Policy.