Open Space Strategy adopted
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Campasep Shire Council has adopted the Open Space Strategy, a high-level plan to guide the decision making process when planning, designing and maintaining the open space network and to build on the previous document developed in 2014.
Open spaces include parks and formal gardens, playgrounds, sporting and recreation reserves, paths and significant water assets on rivers and other waterways.
The strategy was released for public comment in April, with four submissions received. All related to specific places seeking updates or beautification of an area, rather than the overarching guiding principles.
In adopting the strategy, the council recognised the need to review it once the Township Facility Plans across the shire were completed.
The strategy is available on the council’s website.
Second-year Council Plan actions endorsed
Council has endorsed year two actions, as part of delivering the four-year Council Plan, to be completed across the 2022-23 financial year.
The Council Plan, developed by the new council, sets out four key priority areas for its term, being:
- Flourishing local economy;
- Resilient protected and healthy natural environment;
- Well-planned places;
- Growing quality of life.
In finalising the Council Plan, year one actions were included, being the focus for the 2021-22 year. Each year actions for the year ahead will be developed; this is where the community can see how the council plans to deliver on its Council Plan.
The Year 2 Action Plan is available on the council’s website, together with the Council Plan.
Omnibus Amendment C118
Following extensive community advertising and open community sessions, the council has adopted Amendment C118, now to be submitted to the minister for planning for final approval.
The purpose of the amendment is to align the scheme with the minister for planning’s ministerial direction and to implement the recommendations of the scheme review. The amendment mainly changes the structure and content of the Planning Scheme, to make it easier to read and use.
The amendment was advertised in February this year, with five community drop-in sessions held across the shire to assist residents in understanding what was being planned. Thirteen submissions were received, all resolved through providing clarification, or agreed changes made to the amendment.
Once approved by the minister, the amendment will be incorporated into the Campaspe Shire Planning Scheme.
Community Event Sponsorships
Council has approved two Community Event Sponsorships:
- Echuca Moama Arts Initiative Inc: $1000 to assist with hosting the EMAI Arts Prize 2022;
- Kyabram Theatre Group Inc: $1000 to assist with the costs for the Cinderella production.
The program is open year-round providing financial support to not-for-profit community groups to conduct events.
Council grant funding
Campaspe Shire Council has awarded more than $55,000 in funding as part of three grant funding programs.
Mayor Chrissy Weller said applications for the Community Grants, Business Assistance Grants and Community Equipment Grants were all reviewed and that the council is delighted to assist so many worthy recipients.
“It’s great to see the variety of projects planned to be delivered by community groups right across our shire,” Cr Weller said.
“Community Grants and Business Assistance Grants are allocated twice a year, while Community Equipment Grants come around six times a year.
“Community Grants offer up to $4000 to not-for-profit community organisations, groups and associations for projects, exhibitions and/or performances.”
The next round of funding for the Community and Business Assistance Grants opens in August, and applications for the Community Equipment Grant open again in July.
Kyabram Free Press and Campaspe Valley News editor