Draft Moriac plan up for comment

Surf Coast Shire Council invites the public to have their say on the Draft Moriac Structure Plan.

Councillor Adrian Schonfelder said the plan would guide the land use and development decisions for Moriac for the next 10 years and ensure that future area growth responds to the landscape.

“It’s fantastic to see current community views and aspirations reflected in this document, including addressing future growth,” he said.

“Moriac is a hinterland gem, and the community has told us they want to retain its small-town character.

“It’s a common theme across the six guiding principles; environment and culture, housing, open space, movement, infrastructure and local economy.”

Cr Schonfelder said he was looking forward to future conversations about the plan and that it acknowledged the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners as the first custodians of Moriac.

“As a sixth-generation resident of the area, I pay my respects to First Nations people of the area,” he said.

“Increased public transport is another priority to help people get to and from Moriac and surrounding areas.

“Initial community engagement told us that locals would like more footpath and trail connections throughout the town, which will encourage transport by foot and bike and improve safety.”

Community information sessions on the plan will be held at Newling Reserve Community Centre on Wednesday, June 28, between 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm.

Surf Coast Shire Council moved to open the Draft Moriac Structure Plan for further public comment during its May meeting, and feedback is welcomed at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/MoriacSP by July 12.