General News
24 May, 2022
What do you see in Cobden’s future?
EARMARKING land for new housing and industrial development, attracting new business and creating attractions to draw people to Cobden are some of the key ambitions proposed in a discussion paper on the town’s future direction.
EARMARKING land for new housing and industrial development, attracting new business and creating attractions to draw people to Cobden are some of the key ambitions proposed in a discussion paper on the town’s future direction.
Corangamite Shire is in the early stages of preparing a structure plan, which will guide the future growth and development of Cobden over the next 15-20 years.
The plan looks at the township of Cobden, as well as land within one kilometre of the existing township.
South Central Ward councillor Jo Beard said residents are invited to share their views on Towards a Structure Plan for Cobden, a discussion paper which has been released for community feedback.
“We have had a lot of really valued input so far through the reference group and community survey,” she said.
“The paper includes what we have heard from residents, what they like about Cobden, and what changes they’d like to see in the future."
“Working group members include representatives from community, business, industry, agriculture and emergency services.”
Cr Beard said there were some “big picture ideas” to attract people to Cobden.
“We’ve heard there is a need to protect and maintain what is good about the town but also there is a recognition that certain change is also likely to be beneficial,” she said.
“For instance, results from the first survey strongly emphasised the need for commercial development in the town centre, more local job opportunities, the need for more housing, arts and cultural activities, and walking paths."
“There is strong support too for protecting environmental features in Cobden and improving open spaces and parks.”
Key themes in the paper include:
Cobden as a service town;
Attracting more people to spend time in Cobden;
New homes in Cobden and; a resilient Cobden.
Cr Beard said Cobden was at a key decision point about its future and encouraged residents to complete the online survey or attend a feedback session.
“Now’s the time,” she said.
“This is a really important opportunity for residents to tell us what they think about these directions before they are considered for inclusion in the first draft of the structure plan.”
Towards a Structure Plan for Cobden is available online at www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/CobdenPlan, with copies available at the Cobden Library and other businesses in town.
Community information and feedback sessions will be held at:
Wednesday, May 25, between 4pm and 6pm at the Cobden Civic Hall;
A street walk on Thursday, May 26, between 9am and 11am; and
Community meeting on Tuesday, June 7, between 7pm and 8pm, location to be advised.