Council
12 June, 2024
Councillors vote to defer planning permit
CORANGAMITE Shire Councillors voted to defer a two lot subdivision in Simpson.
Coastal Ward councillor Jamie Vogels moved a motion to defer the decision for one month to allow councillors more time to receive information to make their decision.
“I’d like to acknowledge that we have had an onsite inspection and spoken directly with the applicant there are a number of matters I would like to have further information on before I make a decision,” he said.
Councillor Jo Beard seconded the motion which was ultimately passed.
“I’d be keen to get some more information as well,” she said.
Cr Beard said there was confusion at the planning site inspection about the lot boundary.
The planning permit application was for a two lot subdivision on Tomahawk Creek Road, Simpson for the excision of a dwelling.
Shire planning co-ordinator Melanie Oborne said the application indicates the purpose of the subdivision was to enable the owners to continue to reside in the dwelling and sell the balance farmland.
“During the planning site inspection, the owners informed council they will continue to reside in the dwelling and manage the farm,” she said.
“It is not their immediate intention to sell the farmland but the subdivision is sought to assist with future retirement planning and provide the owners with their own security and flexibility to sell or transfer the balance farmland to others at a suitable time.”
Ms Oborne said the proposed subdivision does not enhance farm consolidation and was not necessary for the ongoing agricultural use of the land or for the trading of lots between farms.
“Additionally, it has not been adequately justified why the dwelling is not required to support the agricultural use of the land.
“Rather, the dwelling is required to support the existing agricultural use with the owner continuing to farm the property and live in the dwelling.
“This outcome is in conflict with the directions set out in local policy which seeks to protect agricultural land, limit its fragmentation and the establishment of rural-residential lots.”
Ms Oborne said it was recommended to refuse the planning permit application.
“A strategic view must be taken instead of responding to personal circumstances and short-term land use change,” she said.
“There is greater planning benefit in retaining the dwelling on the land for long-term connection with agriculture.”